Abandoned Military Bases In Ontario | What Is The Secret Military Base In Canada?

The Diefenbunker was built in 1959 by Canadian Prime Minister John Diefenbaker as a backup headquarters for the Canadian federal government and military. The bunker was built in response to the Cold War and the threat of nuclear attack. It was designed to withstand a nuclear blast and provide a safe haven for the government to continue operating in the event of a nuclear war.

The Diefenbunker is located in Carp, Ontario, about 30 kilometers west of Ottawa. It is a massive underground complex that covers over 10 acres and is made up of over 300 rooms. It was built to house over 500 people and was designed to be self-sufficient for up to 30 days. The bunker has its own power supply, water purification system, and food storage. It was also equipped with a sophisticated communications system that would allow the government to communicate with the outside world.

The Diefenbunker was kept secret for many years. However, it was eventually declassified and opened to the public in 1992. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction and offers visitors a glimpse into the Cold War era and the history of Canada. You can explore the different rooms, including the Prime Minister’s office, the war room, and the living quarters. The bunker also has a museum that tells the story of its construction and use.

There are a lot of abandoned military bases in the United States and its territories. We’re talking around 200! However, that’s just an estimate. It’s hard to get an exact number because the definition of “abandoned” can be a little fuzzy.

Some bases are completely shut down and left to the elements. Others are partially used for different purposes, like training or storage. And some are even being repurposed into things like parks, museums, or even housing developments. It’s fascinating to think about the history these places hold and the potential they have for the future.

Think about it, these bases were built to defend our country, to train soldiers, and to store weapons. But as times changed and technology advanced, some of these bases became obsolete. The government decided to close them down, but what happens to them then?

Well, sometimes they’re torn down and the land is sold off for other uses. Other times, the buildings are left standing, but they’re not used for anything. They can become a real problem – they can be dangerous to the environment, they can be a haven for criminals, and they can be a drain on the local economy.

But there are also some positive stories. Some of these bases have been turned into beautiful parks, where people can enjoy nature and learn about the history of the military. Others have been converted into museums, where visitors can see artifacts from the past and learn about the sacrifices made by soldiers. And still others have been transformed into housing developments, providing affordable homes for people in need.

The future of abandoned military bases is up in the air. But it’s clear that these places have a lot of potential. It’s up to us to decide how we want to use them and what kind of legacy we want to leave behind.

The old military base in Toronto was Fort York, which was replaced by New Fort York in 1841. New Fort York was later known as Stanley Barracks and was located on the Lake Ontario shoreline. It was built to replace the original Fort York at the mouth of Garrison Creek.

New Fort York was built to provide a stronger defense for the city of Toronto, which had grown considerably since the original Fort York was built in the early 19th century. The new fort was constructed on a more strategic location, with a commanding view of Lake Ontario, and it was equipped with more advanced fortifications and weaponry.

Stanley Barracks played a vital role in the military history of Canada, serving as a base for Canadian troops during the Second World War and the Korean War. It was also used as a training center for the Canadian Army and the Royal Canadian Navy.

The base was officially closed in the 1960s and it is now a popular tourist attraction, known as Fort York National Historic Site. Visitors can explore the restored buildings, learn about the history of the fort, and see historical artifacts.

You’re right, Canadian Forces Base Borden (CFB Borden) is the largest military base in Ontario. It’s actually one of the most important military training centers in Canada, located about 100 kilometers north of Toronto, right in the heart of Simcoe County. Simcoe County is known for its beautiful scenery and tourist attractions, but CFB Borden plays a crucial role in Canada’s defense.

It’s not just a training ground; it’s a bustling community with a variety of military and defense organizations. Think of it as a mini-city dedicated to national security! From soldiers learning new skills to engineers working on cutting-edge technology, CFB Borden is a hub of activity. It’s a place where the future of Canada’s armed forces is shaped.

Here’s a bit more about what makes CFB Borden so unique:

The Size: CFB Borden covers a massive 14,000 acres. That’s about the size of a small city! This vast space allows for a wide range of training exercises, from basic soldier skills to complex maneuvers involving armored vehicles, aircraft, and even live-fire exercises.
The Training: This base offers a wide variety of training programs, covering everything from basic military skills to advanced technical training. It’s where soldiers learn to operate tanks, helicopters, and even how to use cutting-edge technology like drones.
The Importance: CFB Borden is not just about training; it’s also a key part of Canada’s overall defense strategy. It’s a crucial place where the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) prepares for real-world scenarios, whether that’s peacekeeping operations abroad or protecting Canada’s borders.
The Community: CFB Borden is more than just a base. It’s a vibrant community with a rich history. Thousands of military personnel and their families call CFB Borden home. The base has schools, recreation facilities, and even a hospital, making it a self-sufficient community.
The Future: As Canada’s defense needs evolve, CFB Borden continues to adapt. The base is investing in new technologies and training programs to ensure that the CAF is prepared for the challenges of the 21st century.

So, the next time you hear about Canadian Forces Base Borden, remember that it’s not just a military base; it’s a vital part of Canada’s defense infrastructure, a place where the future of our armed forces is shaped.

Joint Task Force 2 (JTF 2) is Canada’s premier special operations force, dedicated to safeguarding Canadian national interests and combating terrorism threats both domestically and internationally.

JTF 2 is a highly classified unit, shrouded in secrecy to protect its operations and the identities of its members. It’s known for its elite training and its ability to conduct a wide range of missions, including:

Direct Action: This involves conducting raids, hostage rescues, and other high-risk operations.
Special Reconnaissance: JTF 2 gathers intelligence through covert surveillance and reconnaissance missions.
Counter-Terrorism: JTF 2 is a crucial force in combating terrorism, both within Canada and abroad.
Counter-Narcotics: JTF 2 is involved in disrupting drug trafficking networks.
Military Assistance: JTF 2 has provided training and support to other countries’ militaries.

The secrecy surrounding JTF 2 stems from the nature of its work. It operates in high-risk environments, often in hostile territories, and its success depends on the element of surprise. Revealing information about its capabilities, tactics, or personnel could jeopardize future missions and put the lives of its members at risk.

As a result, information about JTF 2 is carefully controlled. The unit’s existence was not officially acknowledged until the early 2000s, and details about its missions, training, and personnel remain confidential. This secrecy is not intended to be a cover-up but rather a critical component of its operational effectiveness. JTF 2 operates in the shadows to ensure the safety and security of Canada and its citizens.

The United States does not have any military bases in Vietnam. The last US air force aircraft left Vietnam on April 30, 1975. Since then, the United States has not had any military bases in Vietnam.

Why did the US leave Vietnam?

The US involvement in Vietnam was a long and complicated period of history. The US became involved in Vietnam in the 1950s to prevent the spread of communism in Southeast Asia. The US became increasingly involved in the Vietnam War and by the 1960s, the US was fighting a full-scale war against North Vietnam. The war was very costly in terms of both human lives and money. The war also divided the American public and led to protests and anti-war demonstrations.

By the early 1970s, the US was looking to withdraw from the Vietnam War. The Paris Peace Accords were signed in 1973, which allowed for the withdrawal of US troops from Vietnam. The war officially ended in 1975 when North Vietnam captured Saigon, the capital of South Vietnam. The fall of Saigon marked the end of the Vietnam War and the end of the US military presence in Vietnam.

What is the current US relationship with Vietnam?

The US and Vietnam have since normalized relations and have developed strong economic and political ties. The US has also provided Vietnam with aid and support in areas such as development and disaster relief. The two countries have also worked together on issues such as trade and security. The US and Vietnam have a strong and growing relationship, and both countries are committed to maintaining this positive relationship.

Canada has 27 Canadian Forces bases (CFB) across the country, including the National Defence Headquarters (NDHQ). These bases are spread out strategically across the country, from coast to coast to coast, and play a vital role in supporting the Canadian Armed Forces.

Each base has a unique role and purpose, and some are home to specific units or capabilities. For example, CFB Trenton in Ontario is the primary air transport hub for the Canadian Armed Forces, while CFB Esquimalt in British Columbia is home to the Royal Canadian Navy’s Pacific Fleet. Other bases like CFB Gagetown in New Brunswick and CFB Suffield in Alberta are used for training and exercises.

These bases are a crucial part of Canada’s defence infrastructure, providing a platform for the Canadian Armed Forces to operate, train, and respond to threats and emergencies. They also play an important role in supporting communities across the country, by providing jobs, economic activity, and community support. The bases serve as symbols of Canada’s commitment to defence and security and they are a testament to the country’s proud military heritage.

Let’s talk about Canadian military bases.

You’re curious about Closed bases that still have a military presence – Ontario. One such base is Canadian Forces Base Ottawa (South). It’s not just a name, though! You’ll find a military presence there, even though it’s been designated as a closed base.

Another example of a closed base with a military presence is No. 5 Service Flying Training School. This school opened near Brantford on November 11, 1940. It was established under the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan to train Air Force bomber and transport pilots. The school had a relief landing field located at Burtch.

No. 5 Service Flying Training School played a crucial role in training pilots during World War II. The school trained pilots from various countries, including Canada, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Although the school has since closed, its legacy lives on in the form of the military presence that continues to operate at the base. The base is still used for various purposes, such as training, research, and development.

The presence of these closed military bases in Ontario is a testament to the history and significance of the Canadian Armed Forces. Even though they may no longer be operational, they continue to hold historical and cultural importance. The ongoing military presence at these bases serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who served in the Armed Forces, and the enduring commitment of Canada to its national defense.

The Canadian Army base is still very much alive! While some buildings are no longer in use and might need a little TLC, many are thriving under the ownership of different companies. 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 this location home.

It’s fascinating to think about the transition of this land from a military base to a bustling hub for various businesses. Each company brings its unique energy and purpose to the site, breathing new life into the buildings and contributing to the local economy. This transformation highlights the adaptability and resourcefulness of communities, turning a chapter of history into an opportunity for growth and progress. The presence of these businesses showcases the site’s continued value and potential, proving that the Canadian Army base remains a vital part of the region’s fabric.

The Canadian military is constantly evolving, and as part of this evolution, the Department of National Defence (DND) is always looking for ways to improve efficiency and effectiveness. This often means that operationally obsolete and costly military bases across Canada are closed or merged.

The DND’s focus on tactical mobility means that resources are being allocated towards more modern and versatile military capabilities. This shift in priorities, along with budget constraints, has led to the closure of several bases in recent years.

Why are these bases being closed?

Many factors contribute to the closure of Canadian military bases. Here are a few key reasons:

Outdated infrastructure: Some bases have aging infrastructure that requires significant investment to maintain. Closing these bases allows the DND to reinvest in newer, more efficient facilities.
Strategic realignment: The DND’s strategic priorities have shifted in recent years, leading to a need for bases in different locations.
Budget constraints: The DND operates on a limited budget. Closing bases helps to free up resources that can be used to fund other priorities.

What does this mean for the future?

It’s likely that the closure and merging of military bases will continue as the DND adapts to changing global security environments. This doesn’t mean that all bases will be closed, but it does suggest that the Canadian military will continue to evolve its footprint in Canada to ensure it can meet its operational needs.

This process is often difficult for the communities that rely on these bases for jobs and economic activity. However, the DND works closely with these communities to mitigate the impact of base closures, providing resources and support to help them adjust.

Canadian Forces Base Ottawa (North) is located on the shores of the Ottawa River. The base was originally established as Rockcliffe Air Station in 1919 for the newly formed Canadian Air Force. It’s on the same land as a former army rifle range and training camp that existed since 1898.

It’s easy to find. The base is located in the city of Ottawa, just north of downtown, on the eastern side of the river. The main entrance to the base is on Rockcliffe Parkway, just south of the Aviation Parkway.

Today, the base is home to several units of the Canadian Armed Forces, including the Air Force, the Army, and the Navy. It also plays host to several civilian organizations, including the National Research Council of Canada.

The base is a bustling place, with a lot of activity going on. You can often see planes taking off and landing, soldiers marching, and vehicles driving around. If you’re interested in learning more about the Canadian Armed Forces, then Canadian Forces Base Ottawa (North) is definitely worth a visit.

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 Institute’s purpose was to conduct secret research on 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 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

Canadian Army Training Centres of World War II

Source Material: “Sixty Years of War – The Official History of the Canadian Army in World War II Volume 1” by Colonel C.P. Stacey & The Canadian Army WWII Training Establishments web site – Canadian Military History

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

Canada’s Decommissioned Military Bases – National Trust for

Canada’s Decommissioned Military Bases. by Albert Warson. Canada’s military history is perpetuated behind thick, crenellated walls punctuated by cannons poking out of The National Trust for Canada