Unit History
In the summer of 1942, The Rotary Club of Oshawa and General Motors of Canada made a joint decision to support the formation of an Air Cadet Squadron in Oshawa. The Squadron received its charter on August 6th, 1942 and by October, five officers were training more than sixty cadets at the Oshawa Armory.
In 1943, Wing Commander Lloyd Vernun Chadburn inspected the new Squadron and allowed the Squadron to take his name. Chadburn is proudly displayed on the Squadron’s banner today.
151 Squadron has a long tradition of excellence, consistently recognized at the provincial and national levels. The Squadron has earned Ontario’s highest proficiency award multiple times, achieved top placement in its area during the years of regional competition, and has been ranked among the top squadrons in Ontario for decades. Its record includes national recognition as both a first- and second-place finisher, as well as frequent top-ten standings among more than 100 squadrons across the province.
In 1950, the Squadron moved into its present headquarters, the Rotary Hall, originally a General Motors showroom until 1929. Renovated during the 1990–1991 training year, the facility continues to provide a dedicated space for the cadets of 151 Squadron.
Since its formation, 151 Squadron has grown under the leadership of eleven Commanding Officers, evolving from purely military aims into one of the best examples of a youth organization that promotes citizenship, leadership, physical fitness, aviation, and support for the Canadian Armed Forces. Throughout these years, the Squadron has been proudly sponsored by the Rotary Club of Oshawa. Formed in 1983, the squadron’s Military Brass and Reed Band has become a key part of our program. The band has proudly represented 151 Squadron at parades, inspections, and numerous ceremonies for both civilian and military dignitaries, distinguishing itself as one of the premier cadet bands in Ontario.
The crest of 151 Squadron follows the approved format for all Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadrons: a winged roundel displaying the Squadron’s name and number, surmounted by the Canadian Coronet. Its central theme is the stylized maple leaf from the Canadian Air Force roundel, representing the Squadron’s connection to the current Air Force. Superimposed on the leaf is the Leaping Lynx, taken from the nose art of Wing Commander Chadburn’s Spitfire LV-C, symbolizing a link to the past. Designed by Major Garry Burns in 1992, the crest was introduced in conjunction with the Squadron’s 50th Anniversary.
For generations of cadets, 151 Chadburn Squadron has offered an experience that inspires personal growth, lasting friendships, and a sense of belonging over more than 80 years.