This parade commemorates a major turning point in the second world war. Germany was close to achieving air superiority and was dominating all of Europe, France had already fallen and Britain was next.

It was a massive bombing campaign of Britain that Canadian pilots and pilots from several other commonwealth nations flew to England to fight against, and though still out numbered and fighting a much more confident force, managed to finally turn the tables and weaken the German resolve. The German’s intent was to completely dominate the skies so that Britain would be forced to surrender so that they could then turn their forces against Russia. The defeat in the Battle of Britain was the first major loss for the Germans and is viewed as a key turning point in the second world war

This event is remembered every September at the Aviation Museum with representatives of the British High Command and senior officials of other participating commonwealth countries who participated in the battle. There is a large contingent of military personnel in the parade and an equally large contingent of Air Cadets from the Ottawa region – 872 Squadron always having a disproportionately large representation. In addition to the parade itself is a very rare fly past of allied aircraft that participated in the battle.

This parade is open to the public and family members are encourage to attend.

Although not a mandatory event, participation is strongly encouraged and counts towards high school community hours.