Event news - DAKOTA C-47 CEREMONY - 2025

DAKOTA C-47 CEREMONY.

A ceremony was held on 6 June on the 81st anniversary of D-Day, to rededicate the newly refurbished C-47 Dakota aircraft on display on the grounds of the Garrison Petawawa Military Museum.

The event was conducted by the Garrison Commander Colonel Jason Guiney and was attended by a large contingent from M Coy (Para) of 3 RCR, some members of 450 Tactical Helicopter Squadron as well as Rick Hatton, Ian Husk and JP Frederiks representing CAFA. Major Martz provided an informative and stimulating account of the history of that particular aircraft that not only delivered paratroopers on D-Day as well as on Op Market Garden, but also survived throughout WW II as a general workhorse of the air and was transferred to the RCAF after the war for ongoing service, eventually to be decommissioned and placed on display at the military museum at CFB Petawawa.

After many years on display, the aircraft was provided a much needed and appreciated repainting and refurbishment by talented members of 450 Tactical Helicopter Squadron. Thanks to 450 Tac Hel Sqn and Garrison Petawawa Military Museum for making all this happen.

This C-47 Dakota aircraft, especially as it is positioned next to the Airborne statue of “Iron Mike” or “In Action” is a fitting tribute to the legacy of Canada’s Airborne Legacy.

Rick Hatton - CAFA President