Commanding Officer History
Since its formation in 1942, Chadburn Squadron has had only 11 Commanding Officers (COs), with many serving multiple terms. Notably, Lieutenant Colonel Gilbank served an impressive 23 consecutive years as CO.
Over the years, the cadet system has undergone changes, including the rank of commanding officers. Previously, COs of larger units (90+ cadets) were promoted to Major and retained this rank after their term. In the early 2000s, this changed to an acting rank of Major, reverting to Captain once the term ended. As of 2022, COs are no longer promoted to Major, and remain at the rank of Captain.
Commanding Officers
(2023-Present)
Major Bliss, CD
(2003-2007, 2012-2017)
Capt Bliss is currently serving his third term as Commanding Officer of Chadburn Squadron. He joined 151 Squadron in 1979, rising to Squadron Warrant Officer. After serving as an AH-1 Cobra Attack Helicopter mechanic in the U.S. Army, he returned to Chadburn Squadron, where he has remained for over 30 years. During this time, he has held every position at the Squadron in addition to having worked on an International Air Cadet Exchange, and at Trenton, Blackdown, Connaught, and Vernon Cadet Training Centres.
(2020-2023)
Major Brosseau joined Chadburn Squadron as a cadet in 1978 and was appointed Squadron Warrant Officer in 1983, the same year he earned his private pilot’s license.
After returning as a Civilian Volunteer in 2004, he became an officer in 2007, serving in roles such as Drill Team Officer, Recruit Training Officer, Training Officer, and Operations Officer. In September 2020, he assumed the role of Commanding Officer, guiding the squadron through two challenging years of COVID-19 restrictions.
Upon completing his term in June 2023, Captain Brosseau transferred to the Cadet Instructor Supplementary Staff List.
(1986-1990, 2017-2020)
Major Weigel was the first Squadron Warrant Officer of 151 Squadron to become Commanding Officer. As a cadet with Chadburn, he earned his power pilot wings and participated in the International Air Cadet Exchange to Germany. Under his leadership, the squadron’s band evolved from a few borrowed instruments into an award-winning military band which is now such a large part of our squadron. In his almost 45 years as an officer with Chadburn Squadron, Major Weigel served two terms as Commanding Officer and many years as Deputy Commanding Officer, leaving a lasting impact through his dedication to drill, field training, and numerous hall maintenance projects. In 2022, he transferred to 172 Clarington Air Cadets to address a staff shortage and retired from the Canadian Armed Forces in 2024.
(2008-2012)
Major Puglisevich started with Chadburn Squadron in 1987, and held various roles such as Supply Officer, Drill Team Officer, Band Officer, Marksmanship Team Officer, and Deputy Commanding Officer. In 2012, he took command of 172 Squadron in Bowmanville before returning to 151 in 2016. In the summer of 2023, Capt Puglisevich transferred to 41 Port Perry Army Cadets before retiring and continuing as a Civilian Instructor.
(1993-1997, 2000-2003)
Major Forbes started his career with 288 Kirkland Lake Squadron and rose to WO2 with 151 Squadron. Under his command, the Squadron established a strong and continuing presence on the Internet. Major Forbes established the Squadron as a significant presence in community service throughout Durham Region. The Squadron was the focal point for Lloyd Chadburn Day ceremonies in 1994 and received Freedom of the Region during the 60th Anniversary year. Major Forbes is the author of Gone is the Angel, the biography of Lloyd Chadburn.
(1990-1993, 1997-2000)
Major Burns, also a 151 SWO, served two terms as Commanding Officer, he also served as CO of 2, 166, 876, 351, 707 Squadrons. Major Burns also served two terms as the Regional/Area Cadet Advisor and worked extensively at the Trenton Air Cadet Summer Training Centre. Major Burns designed the 151 Squadron Crest for the 50th anniversary year.
(1982-1986)
Major Beaton joined the Squadron as a Civilian Instructor in 1950. He served the Squadron in every capacity prior to assuming the position of Commanding Officer. Following this service, he finished his military career as Central Area Colonel and CO of Borden Air Cadet Camp.
(1959-1982)
Major Gilbank was the first Commanding Officer to rise from the ranks of the cadets of 151 Squadron. His long service established many of the ideals and traditions currently employed at 151 Squadron. He went on to become the Central Area Colonel. After retiring, Lt Col Gilbank worked as a Civilian Instructor with the Squadron for many years. For more information, please click this link written by Brian Cotter, a proud ex cadet of 151 Chadburn Squadron.
(1955-1959)
Flight Lieutenant McIlveen was a navigator with the RCAF and joined the ranks of 151 Squadron upon his release from the Regular Force.
(1945-1955)
Squadron Leader Beal commanded the Squadron during the difficult post-war period, Bringing it through to its current leadership, citizenship and flying training focus.
1942-1945)
Squadron Leader Percy Jobb was a veteran of World War I, where he was a Captain in the Infantry, 136th Battalion. He was wounded at Passchendaele Belgium in 1917.