Armstrong, ON

Appendix "B" to
AFAO 71.00/01

Introduction

This station was built thirteen years ago as a unit in the Pinetree Line of Radar Sites, and was manned by the United States Air Force until November 1962, at which time the RCAF officially took over. The unit then became known as 38 Radar Squadron and is presently under the command of Lt. Colonel DL Turner. On 13 Sep 67 the unit was renamed Canadian Forces Station Armstrong. CFS Armstrong is operationally responsible to the Commander, Duluth 29^th Div and administratively responsible to the Commander, Air Defence Command.

The role of CFS Armstrong is to collect, disseminate and transmit to Duluth SAGE Centre, radar data appearing within the units area of radar coverage; to provide services and a back-up intercept control capability.

The unit also has an Otter aircraft on strength which carries out air evacuations, when necessary, and provides bi-monthly return Medical Officer trips to CFB Winnipeg. It also has a limited Search and Rescue capability. As the role of this aircraft is diminishing, it is expected that by 1 April 68 it will be deleted from our establishment along with the pilot and crewman.

See Annex "C" Record of Activities.

The general organization of unit training is co-ordinated by the SSTO. Specific training, as required by individual sections, is the responsibility of the section head. The SSTO gives assistance and co-operation training programmes as required.

Both formal and on the job training has been carried out during the year. In the operations area, trade advancement lectures have been given, but in the smaller sections the tradesmen are required to carry out a self-study programme under the supervision of the NCOs i/c.

The training of security guards, SAT teams and Fire Fighters was carried out throughout the year.

Personnel administration proceeded without undue hardship throughout the year. During the summer months there was a changeover of key personnel, almost entirely concentrated in the months of May, June and July, resulting in a complete change in these areas by September.

A number of practice parades and CO’s parades were held during the year, weather permitting. The major parades were the CO’s handing over parade, which was called, but cancelled due to inclement weather, and a Remembrance Day Parade held on 11 Nov 67 in conjunction with the Canadian Legion in the hamlet of Armstrong.

Regular visits were made by Captain Richards Med/MO on a semi-monthly basis and by the Area Social Welfare Officer, Captain Harvey – as required. Both officers commuted from CFB Winnipeg by rail and aircraft.

Religious services were provided throughout the year by Father Hyrchenuk, later replaced by Father Bazinet; and Reverend MacIntosh both officiating clergymen. Mass is celebrated on Sundays, holidays of obligation and twice a month on Thursdays in the Station Chapel. Protestant services are held each Sunday during the summer in the Hamlet of Armstrong, and during the winter months in the Station Chapel.

Several organizational changes came about during the year, the most significant were:

Official Visits and Inspections

During 1967 this unit was host to a number of senior officers from ADCHQ and Duluth NORAD Sector, as well as staff visits from various ADC HQ representatives to the operational and domestic sites of the unit. There was also visits made by Senior officers from #4 RCEO, CFB Winnipeg.

Recreation

It is unfortunate that this unit lacks a proper size recreation hall, especially during the winter months, where volleyball, basketball, floor hockey and other similar sports could be played. The winter in this area of the country is L-O-N-G and V-E-R-Y C-O-L-D and a proper sized recreation hall would be a welcome addition to this unit. Nevertheless, this unit has undertaken a varied program of sports and activities to make life more enjoyable. This program keeps us occupied and entertained when we are off duty. Participation is high in this area and the projects and activities help to bolster morale.

For summer use, the base has recently constructed a new cabin, seven miles from town at MacKenzie Lake. Several outboard motor boats, canoes, a boat dock, swimming raft and beach are available for the benefit of base personnel for fishing, boating, swimming or water-skiing. Fishing in this area is considered the best in North Western Ontario.

Hunting is another sport in which many of the base personnel participate. The surrounding area is well known for moose, bear, fox, lynx and spruce hen.

This unit has a ski-hill complete with tow and lights. This year a new ski chalet has been added. There are four ski trails with a toboggan run adjacent to the main hill. Ski equipment and toboggans are available for base personnel from the Rec. Centre.

For the curlers on this unit, there is a natural ice curling rink in the hamlet of Armstrong. Many personnel take part in this popular sport.

A new winter sport was added with the purchase of skidoos. Again this year, as in years past, the highlight of the winter season was the annual winter carnival jointly organized by base personnel and representatives from the hamlet of Armstrong. The carnival was held in the month of March and featured numerous indoor and outdoor competitions. The Chairman of the Winter Carnival Committee this year was Captain Garnier.

Shuffleboard – This is a very popular game at the unit and boards are located in the Airmen’s Institute and Sgt’s. Mess.

Arm Chair Curling – This is similar to shuffleboard, except that it is laid out in the shape and with the markings of a sheet of curling ice. The surface of the board is a plastic material which can be adjusted by the players to suit their style of delivery. All the rules that apply to regular curling apply to this game. This board was purchased by the Officer’s Mess in December and is located therein.