Abandoned Military Bases In Ontario: Secrets Of The Past

You might be wondering about the secret military base in Canada. Well, it’s not exactly a secret, but it’s definitely a fascinating piece of history. It’s called the Diefenbunker, and it was built in 1959 by Prime Minister John Diefenbaker.

The Diefenbunker was designed as a backup headquarters for the Canadian government and military in case of a nuclear attack. This was a time when the Cold War was at its peak, and fear of nuclear war was very real. So, the Diefenbunker was built to ensure that the Canadian government could continue operating in the event of a major disaster.

The Diefenbunker is located near Carp, Ontario, which is about 30 kilometers southwest of Ottawa. It’s a massive underground facility, stretching over 50,000 square feet. The bunker has everything you could imagine, including living quarters, a kitchen, a hospital, and even a communications center.

It was a state-of-the-art facility at the time, and it was designed to withstand a nuclear blast. The walls were reinforced with concrete and steel, and the doors were massive and blast-proof. The Diefenbunker was also equipped with its own air filtration system, to protect its inhabitants from radiation.

It was designed to house over 500 people for up to 30 days.

The Diefenbunker was never used for its intended purpose, thankfully. It was decommissioned in 1994 and is now open to the public for tours. If you’re ever in Canada, it’s definitely worth checking out.

It’s amazing to think about all the abandoned military bases scattered across the U.S.! Around 200 abandoned military bases exist in the United States and its territories, although this number is just an estimate. It’s tough to get an exact count because there’s no official list. Plus, what’s considered “abandoned” is tricky. Some bases may be partially used, while others are completely shut down.

But why are there so many abandoned military bases? It’s simple: the military needs are always changing. As technology advances and new threats emerge, the military must adapt, leading to the closure of some bases. Other bases may be closed due to budget cuts or a decrease in military personnel.

Sometimes, when a base is shut down, it’s turned over to the local community. This can be a fantastic opportunity for economic development, as the land can be repurposed for commercial, residential, or recreational use. Many abandoned bases have become parks, nature preserves, or even historical sites.

It’s important to note that some bases may be considered “abandoned,” but they are still actively used. This is especially true for research and development facilities or for training purposes. There are also some bases that are preserved as historical sites or museums, offering a glimpse into the military’s past. These sites can be great for learning about America’s history and understanding the vital role that military bases have played throughout the years.

The future of these abandoned bases is uncertain. Some will be redeveloped, while others might remain untouched. No matter their fate, they stand as a testament to America’s military history and the ever-changing nature of defense needs.

The Stanley Barracks, formerly known as New Fort York, was a significant military base in Toronto, Ontario. Located on the shores of Lake Ontario, it replaced the original Fort York at the mouth of Garrison Creek, becoming the primary military base for the settlement. Built between 1840 and 1841, the barracks served as a vital hub for British and Canadian military operations.

The original Fort York, constructed in 1793, played a crucial role in defending the burgeoning town of York (later renamed Toronto) during the War of 1812. However, as the city grew and military strategies evolved, the need for a larger and more modern base became apparent.

New Fort York, with its expansive grounds and substantial infrastructure, became the new focal point for military activity. It housed various regiments, including the Queen’s Own Rifles, and served as a training ground for soldiers. The barracks also played a role in overseeing the construction of the nearby Fort Henry in Kingston, Ontario.

Over time, the Stanley Barracks underwent various changes and expansions to accommodate the evolving needs of the Canadian military. However, as the military landscape shifted further, the barracks were eventually decommissioned. Today, the site is a popular historical landmark, offering visitors a glimpse into the city’s military past. The Fort York National Historic Site, located close to the original Fort York site, provides a compelling narrative of the area’s military heritage.

Okay, let’s talk about Canadian Forces Base Borden (CFB Borden). It’s a big deal in Ontario, and not just because it’s the biggest military base in the province!

CFB Borden sits about 100 kilometers north of Toronto, right in the middle of Simcoe County. This area is super popular with tourists, so you might be surprised to find a military base nestled amongst all the fun!

The base is actually the biggest training center for the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF), which means it’s where lots of soldiers learn their skills and get ready for action. It’s not just soldiers though, there are lots of other military and Defence Team organizations calling CFB Borden home.

Now, you might be wondering what makes CFB Borden so special. Well, it’s a huge place, covering a massive amount of land. It’s got everything from training ranges for all kinds of weapons to mock towns and villages where soldiers can practice their tactics. They even have a little airfield for practicing flights! It’s like a miniature military city!

It’s important to remember that CFB Borden is a crucial part of Canada’s defence system. It helps to train the people who keep our country safe, and it’s a huge economic driver for the Simcoe County area. So, the next time you’re exploring Ontario, take a moment to appreciate the vital role CFB Borden plays in our country’s security!

Canada’s Joint Task Force 2 (JTF 2) is the country’s premier special operations force. They’re responsible for protecting Canadian interests at home and abroad, including fighting terrorism.

JTF 2 is known for its highly classified nature and the elite skills of its members. They’re trained to conduct a wide range of missions, from hostage rescue and counter-terrorism to direct action and special reconnaissance. Their operations are often shrouded in secrecy, and their existence is rarely acknowledged by the Canadian government.

You might be wondering why JTF 2 is so secretive. Well, it’s all about maintaining operational security. Their missions are often high-risk and involve sensitive information. The less people know about them, the better they can do their jobs. This secrecy also helps to protect the safety of JTF 2 members and prevent adversaries from learning their tactics and capabilities.

JTF 2 is a testament to Canada’s commitment to national security. They’re a highly skilled and dedicated force that operates at the highest level of military professionalism. While their work may be shrouded in secrecy, their contributions to Canada’s safety are undeniable.

The United States does not have any military bases in Vietnam. The last US air force aircraft left Vietnam on April 30, 1975, when the country was unified under communist rule. The US military presence in Vietnam ended with the withdrawal of American troops in 1973.

It’s important to note that the United States maintains a strong diplomatic relationship with Vietnam. Both countries are committed to working together to promote peace and stability in the region. The US has a robust military presence in the Asia-Pacific region to ensure the security and freedom of navigation in the South China Sea, which remains a complex geopolitical area. It’s vital to maintain a balanced approach to international relations, understanding that the relationship between the US and Vietnam continues to evolve, marked by a blend of history, geopolitics, and shared interests.

Canada has 27 Canadian Forces bases (CFB) spread across the country. These bases are home to various units of the Canadian Armed Forces, including the army, navy, and air force. The 27 bases are strategically located across Canada to ensure that the Canadian Armed Forces can respond effectively to any threats to our security.

In addition to these 27 bases, the Canadian Forces also have a number of smaller training facilities and detachments located across the country. These facilities provide training for Canadian Forces personnel in a variety of specialties, such as combat medicine, engineering, and communications.

The Canadian Forces bases are a vital part of Canada’s national defense. They provide a home for our troops, allow them to train for their missions, and help them to respond quickly and effectively to any threats to our security. They are a symbol of Canada’s commitment to defending our country and our allies.

The Battle of York, now known as Toronto, was a pivotal moment in the War of 1812. On April 27th, 1813, American forces, numbering around 2,700, launched a successful assault on Fort York, defeating the defending British and Ojibwa forces, who numbered roughly 750. The victory for the Americans was significant, as they sought to expand their territory into Canada during the early stages of the war.

The battle itself was a complex affair, with both sides demonstrating bravery and skill. However, the Americans ultimately prevailed due to their superior numbers and their strategic approach. The capture of Fort York, the capital of Upper Canada, marked a major turning point in the war, giving the Americans a foothold in the region.

During the battle, the Americans faced fierce resistance from the defenders, who fought valiantly despite being outnumbered. The battle was fought over the course of a single day, with the Americans eventually breaching the fort’s defenses. The British and Ojibwa forces were forced to retreat, leaving the fort in the hands of the Americans.

The aftermath of the Battle of York was significant. The Americans looted and burned several government buildings, including the Parliament building. The destruction of these buildings was seen as an act of vandalism by the British. The battle also had a lasting impact on the relationship between the United States and Canada, contributing to the growing tensions between the two nations. The battle helped to forge a sense of Canadian identity and national pride, as Canadians rallied together to defend their homeland.

The Battle of York, while a significant military victory for the Americans, also left a lasting legacy of destruction and animosity. The battle is a reminder of the complexities and consequences of war, and the importance of diplomacy and peaceful resolutions.

Toronto actually does have a military base! It’s called Canadian Forces Base Toronto, or CFB Toronto for short. It used to be called RCAF Station Downsview and was renamed when the Royal Canadian Air Force, Royal Canadian Navy, and Canadian Army all merged into the Canadian Forces on February 1, 1968.

CFB Toronto was located in the Downsview area of the city, and while it was officially closed in 2013, many of the buildings still stand and are used by other organizations. For example, the Downsview Park is a popular public space for recreation and events. It’s located on the former CFB Toronto grounds and has walking trails, sports fields, and even a museum dedicated to the history of the base.

The base was a major hub for military activity for many years, housing several units including the 438 Squadron and 442 Squadron, which flew CF-18 Hornets. The Canadian Forces also operated a number of other important units at CFB Toronto, including the Canadian Forces Air Command, Canadian Forces Maritime Command, and the Canadian Forces Land Command.

Today, the site is a bustling area for businesses and community members, and its history as a military base is still remembered by many. The Downsview area is a prime example of how the city is constantly evolving and adapting to new uses. It serves as a reminder of the important role the Canadian Forces have played in Canadian history and the way that the city has embraced the change to make the area a valuable part of the community.

Let’s talk about Canadian military bases! You’re interested in Canadian Forces Base Ottawa (South) and whether it’s still active.

Canadian Forces Base Ottawa (South) is indeed still active. It’s one of the largest military bases in Canada and home to a diverse range of units and personnel.

You also mentioned No. 5 Service Flying Training School near Brantford. This school is no longer active, having closed in 1945 after World War II. While it’s not a functioning base anymore, the land still has a military presence, as you pointed out. Let’s explore this further.

No. 5 Service Flying Training School was a vital part of the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan, which played a significant role in training aircrews for the war effort. After the war, the base was decommissioned and the land was transferred to civilian use. However, remnants of the base still remain, including buildings, runways, and even a museum dedicated to the history of the school. These remnants serve as a reminder of the base’s vital contribution to Canada’s war effort.

While the school itself is no longer active, the Canadian Forces continue to maintain a presence on the former base grounds. This presence includes a Canadian Forces Liaison Office that helps manage and maintain the historical site. They also conduct occasional training exercises on the land, ensuring that the site retains its military connection.

So, while No. 5 Service Flying Training School might not have active air operations, it is still a significant site for military history and continues to hold a special place in the memories of those who served there. It’s also a reminder of Canada’s unwavering commitment to global peace and security.

The Canadian Army base is still very much alive! While some of the buildings are no longer used by the military and are showing their age, they’ve found new life with businesses. Martin Steel Company, Vanastra Packaging, Paul Davis Restoration Systems, CAP Products, Good Choice Liquidation Centre, Great Canadian Solid Wood Furniture and Ontario Hydro’s Clinton Operations Centre all call the former base home. It’s great to see these spaces being used again, bringing new jobs and economic activity to the area.

The base was a vital part of the community for many years. It provided employment and supported the local economy. When the army decided to close the base, it was a big change for the community. But, the town of Clinton was determined to find new uses for the base and make it a thriving part of the community once again. They didn’t want to see the base fall into disrepair, and they certainly didn’t want to see it become a ghost town. So, they started working with local businesses to find ways to repurpose the buildings. The success of the businesses that have taken over the old base is a testament to the community’s hard work and dedication. The base is now a symbol of community resilience and the ability to adapt to change. It’s a reminder that even when something seems lost, there are always new opportunities waiting to be discovered.

Okay, let’s talk about some Canadian Army base name changes!

Garrison Petawawa, 5th Canadian Division Support Base Gagetown, and Edmonton Garrison are all names that have been adopted by Canadian Army bases in recent years. They represent a shift in how we organize and identify our military units.

So what’s the story behind these new names? Well, the Canadian Army is structured around Divisions, which are large units responsible for a geographic area or a specific role. These Divisions have been getting a bit of a makeover lately, and with that comes changes to the names of the bases that support them.

For example, CFB Petawawa is now called Garrison Petawawa because it’s the main base for 1st Canadian Division. Similarly, CFB Gagetown is now 5th Canadian Division Support Base Gagetown. CFB Edmonton has also been renamed as Edmonton Garrison to reflect its role as a key base for 3rd Canadian Division.

These name changes aren’t just about making things sound cooler. They’re part of a larger effort to modernize the Canadian Army. The new names are meant to better reflect the roles of these bases within their respective Divisions and to help us understand how the Canadian Army is organized and operates.

It’s important to note that, while these name changes have taken effect, many people still use the old names out of habit. And that’s perfectly fine! The Canadian Army is a living and evolving institution, and these changes are just part of its ongoing development.

Canadian Forces Base Ottawa (North) is located on the shores of the Ottawa River. It’s a beautiful spot, and the base has a long and storied history.

The base’s origins go back to 1898, when it was an Army rifle range and training camp. In 1919, the Canadian Air Force decided to set up shop there. They called it Rockcliffe Air Station.

Over the years, the base has changed a lot, but it’s always been a vital part of Canada’s military. Today, it’s home to the Royal Canadian Air Force’s 437 Transport Squadron, as well as several other units.

Here’s a little more detail about the site’s history:

The land where Canadian Forces Base Ottawa (North) is now located was first used for military purposes in 1898, when the Canadian government established an Army rifle range and training camp. This was because the area was relatively remote and provided ample space for troops to practice their marksmanship and other military skills.

In 1919, following the end of the First World War, the newly formed Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) decided to establish a new air station. Rockcliffe Air Station, as it was then known, was built on the grounds of the former Army training camp, taking advantage of its existing infrastructure and access to the Ottawa River.

The location was considered ideal for a number of reasons. The Ottawa River provided access to water-based transportation, while the surrounding land offered ample space for airfields and other facilities. The proximity to Ottawa, the capital city, was also a significant factor, as it allowed for easy access to government officials and other resources.

Rockcliffe Air Station quickly became a major hub for the RCAF, hosting a variety of aircraft types and training programs. During the Second World War, it was a vital part of the Canadian war effort, providing training for aircrew and aircraft maintenance personnel. After the war, Rockcliffe Air Station continued to be a key facility for the RCAF, playing a role in the development of new aircraft and technologies.

In 1968, the RCAF was merged into the newly formed Canadian Forces, and Rockcliffe Air Station became part of Canadian Forces Base Ottawa (North). Today, the base remains a vibrant military community, hosting a variety of units and personnel.

Abandoned Bases – Canadian Military History

ONTARIO. Canadian Forces Base Toronto – Avenue Road Detachment: Originally opened in 1939 as the RCAF Institute of Aviation Medicine, a military laboratory, on the grounds of the Eglington Hunt Club. The Canadian Military History

ONTARIO – Canadian Military History

Canadian Forces Base Toronto – Avenue Road Detachment: Originally opened in 1939 as the RCAF Institute of Aviation Medicine, a military laboratory, on the grounds of the Eglington Hunt Club. The Institute’s Canadian Military History

Abandoned Military Installations of Canada, Volume 1: Ontario

Ozorak‟s study of abandoned military installations is clearly a labour of love. Basing his approach on the popular Ghost Towns of Ontario series, the author provides complete ucalgary.ca

A Short History of Abandoned and Downsized Canadian

Abandoned Bases. Closed Bases That Still Have A Military Presence. I have also put the three former radar defence lines, the Pinetree, Mid-Canada and Distant Early Warning Lines in their own separate Canadian Military History

CFB Rockcliffe – Wikipedia

Canadian Forces Base Rockcliffe (also CFB Rockcliffe) is a former Canadian Forces Base located in the eastern part of Ottawa, Ontario, now used for Ottawa/Rockcliffe Airport Wikipedia

View of Abandoned Military Installations of Canada, Volume 1:

Journal of Military and Strategic Studies Return to Article Details Abandoned Military Installations of Canada, Volume 1: Ontario Download Download PDF jmss.org

Abandoned Military Installations of Canada, Volume 1: Ontario

Abandoned Military Installations of Canada, Volume 1: Ontario Authors. P. Whitney Lackenbauer University of Calgary Downloads PDF Issue Vol. 3 No. 1 (2000): Spring jmss.org

Abandoned Military Installations of Canada – Google Books

“This book is the most complete listing of military installations in Ontario that were in operation either during or after the Second World War and which are now closed. Google Books

Ontario Heritage Trust | Resources

A Short History of Abandoned and Downsized Canadian Military Bases — Ontario. Canadian War Museum: Canada and Peacekeeping Operations. Canadian War Ontario Heritage Trust