CFB Borden Airshow 2008 - questions

[jzaidi1]

Hey folks,

CFB Borden's CF day is this Saturday and Sunday (June 21/22, 2008).  Just wondering several things:

- How many members here plan on attending? (http://www.borden.forces.gc.ca/998/5/5-25-eng.asp)
- Tips and tricks for getting seated in aircraft that isn't open to the public (ie. hanging out past closing, before opening)?
- Other things that are unique to the CF day in Borden that we should check out?
- Anyone here on the "inside" that could escort us/show us (army.ca members) the little 'extras' that the public don't normally see (ie. behind the scenes stuff)?
...AND...
- Acceptable dress and deportment when talking to on-site CF recruiters - I want to impress, and not look like I spent 8 hours on the beach (wearing sandles, ugly shorts, dirty t-shirts, sweaty face, etc...).  Any CF recruiters have any tips on how to approach you and what you are looking for in a potential candidate at these shows?

Thanks,
J

 

[Loachman]

I spend enough time in Borden, enough time around aircraft, enough time away from home, and there's not likely to be anything at this show that I have not seen before so it's highly likely that I'll bother - although there is going to be a Spitfire...

Suitable casual wear - ie shirt with collar, slacks rather than ratty jeans, and decent shoes - would satisfy recruiters, although they've probably seen pretty much anything. Remove major facial piercings, crazy glue the holes shut, and take a belt sander to any tattoos likely to be considered controversial.

 

[WannaBeFlyer]

what you are looking for in a potential candidate at these shows?

Someone who would make a good Infanteer after thundering PFT.

Just kidding.

Have fun at the show and good luck!

 

[jzaidi1]

Alright,

I'll be going up Sunday with wifey and my sis and her hubby.  Finally, a chance to show them what I "really" want to do for a living (Pilot MOC).  Hopefully it'll convince my wife that Pilot ain't so bad   I'm surprised she said yes to CF day in Borden actually...she didn't put up a fight or anything.

Anyway, I am thinking of going up Sat night but need some recommendations on motels/hotels/accomodations near or on CFB Borden.  Anyone?

Thanks,
J

 

[PMedMoe]

Borden Inn & Suites

Angus Inn

Both right on the main drag in Angus, next to the base.  IIRC, they have both been renovated recently.

 

[Bandit1]

Hey folks,

CFB Borden's CF day is this Saturday and Sunday (June 21/22, 2008).  Just wondering several things:

- How many members here plan on attending? (http://www.borden.forces.gc.ca/998/5/5-25-eng.asp)
- Tips and tricks for getting seated in aircraft that isn't open to the public (ie. hanging out past closing, before opening)?
- Other things that are unique to the CF day in Borden that we should check out?
- Anyone here on the "inside" that could escort us/show us (army.ca members) the little 'extras' that the public don't normally see (ie. behind the scenes stuff)?
...AND...
- Acceptable dress and deportment when talking to on-site CF recruiters - I want to impress, and not look like I spent 8 hours on the beach (wearing sandles, ugly shorts, dirty t-shirts, sweaty face, etc...).  Any CF recruiters have any tips on how to approach you and what you are looking for in a potential candidate at these shows?

Thanks,
J

I'll be at the Media Day on Thursday and Friday and attending the air show both days.  As far as getting seated in a/c that aren't open to the public, there won't really be any.  They'll bring out the usual statics which will include a Hornet, Freedom Fighter, T-33, and a few Tutors which everyone will get seated in so chances are you'll have to wait in line like everyone else for your "hero" shot.  Other unique things to check out - while they're not unique to the CF, the RCMP Musical Ride is really neat to see and their precision is truly something to see if you've never experienced it before.  You'll also have access to almost all the hangers where there'll be plenty of information available about all the schools housed by CFB Borden.  My personal fave is the CFSATE display which will have a Hornet cockpit.  As for attire, I second what Loachman has suggested. 

As for which day - I'd suggest the Saturday to attend as the weather isn't looking great for Sunday.  But then again, it's happening rain or shine so...choose, but choose wisely...

Bandit

 

[jzaidi1]

Looking at the weather network.  It'll be raining Sat and Sun this week in barrie/borden.  How would I get a Media or VIP pass not being part of any professional organization affiliated with the CF day at CFB Borden?  Feel free to PM me if you can hook me up.  What I will do is post a detailed account of my experience on Army.ca.

J

p.s Also - will there be anyone present I can talk to about joining the Air Reserves as an officer specifically at CFB Borden (interim solution on my way to becoming a Pilot)?  If so - what unit and who should I make contact with?

 

[Bandit1]

It's only calling for a 40% chance each day and that is only scattered showers...I think you'll see a decent show even if the Snows have to perform a low or flat show.

As far as media goes - don't know as I'm accredited, but perhaps you could approach the admins on this site and run the idea by them? 

As for recruiting questions - I'd ask the folks from the Canadian Forces Recruiting Group who will be there and give them every last detail you can give and I'm certain they'll be able to assist you.

Bandit

 

[jzaidi1]

The forecast changes day-by-day, sheesh...Sunday is now looking to be a slightly better day than Saturday.  I'd better bring some rain gear, groundsheets and porta-chairs (for my wife and sis).  I'm looking forward to it.  I haven't been on a base in a few years.

Would anyone know if our new CC-117s will be making a fly-past appearance? Also - will the CF-18 be taking off from Borden (exciting to watch) or are they being staged elsewhere?  If I remember correctly, Borden doesn't have the smoothest runway.

J

 

[Bandit1]

I don't believe there will be a C-17 flyby - they're all tasked from what I've been told. 

Hornet and Snows will be housed and launched from Simcoe Regional Airport as the runway at Borden isn't completed as yet.

Hope this helps, and have a great time - pm me your cell number and I'll give you a shout to take some pics of you and your guests enjoying the show.

Cheers,

Bandit

 

[Loachman]

the runway at Borden isn't completed as yet.

It's as completed as it's going to be for the foreseeable future.

It was condemned years ago.

It would take millions to rebuild, and there is no justification.

The base tried to use us as that justification when we moved north in 1996. I said "Sorry, we don't need one" more times than I could count.

 

[Bandit1]

It's as completed as it's going to be for the foreseeable future.

It was condemned years ago.

It would take millions to rebuild, and there is no justification.

The base tried to use us as that justification when we moved north in 1996. I said "Sorry, we don't need one" more times than I could count.

Thanks for the update Loachman - kinda sucks that it won't be rebuilt as it would make for some more hardware to come in but you're 100% right in that the place doesn't need one for the purposes the base is being used for now.

 

[PMedMoe]

Wish I could be there this weekend as I enjoyed a very entertaining show by the Snowbirds last night, right on my own back deck!!!

 

[fire_guy686]

I'm lucky enough to be visiting the in-laws from Manitoba right now so I'll probably be out Saturday with the Wife and Youngster to check things out.

 

[Bandit1]

Heading up there today, I'll be sure to post some pictures when I get in from the practices later today.

Cheers, Bandit

 

[Bandit1]

As promised, here's a couple from today.  Some great stories developing here, and there'll be much to tell once the weekend is over.  His and hers Hornets story - it's this years demo pilot in the single seater and his wife in the two seater.

More photos uploaded to my site - here.

Bandit

 

[Neon]

What a great weekend! The weather was fairly kind and I think most people had a good time. Parking is a nightmare always but the traffic control today went much more smoothly - kudos to the organisers and the poor buggers on point duty and in the parking lots.
I have to say that there a lot of folk who could use a bit more respect though - the guys were doing their best last night to get people away from the Base after the show, but 15000 cars out of 2 exits takes time! The abuse I heard some drivers hurl at the guys on the points was unnecessary - it is to the credit of the young men and women on duty that they took it all with a smile and stayed helpful to the end. My parents were visiting and commented that all the troops were very polite and helpful - good on you!
One of the coolest sights though was actually when the rain did hit - it was wall like a monsoon that marched down the old runway making the hot dry concrete shine in its wake - and then it hit us... pretty much ENDEX we thought, but out of nowhere the Snow Birds still managed to put on a low level show and were as amazing as ever. Yes, all in all a great weekend - now I want to sleep for a week! 

 

[jzaidi1]

Hi all,

First off - Bandit1, I just got your message about PMing you for pics.  I appreciate the offer but I'm about 1 day late.  I did go with my wife and I had a great time.  Borden's tarmac is in pieces but I don't think anyone cared.  I waited to sit in the Hornet for 45 minutes.  It was a tight squeeze only because the seat and pedals were adjusted to fit the little people (kids).  Skyhawks, Griffon, Hornet(s) and all other venues put on a good show despite the lighting striking only a few km away.  Rain, well it came and it went several times but most people didn't care.  I was standing by the first aid tent at one point when a baby arrived - looked like heat exhaustion.  The ambulance took the baby and the mother away somewhere - hope they are ok.

So - about CF recruiting.  Only spoke to one person there and they couldn't pinpoint someone to talk to from 16 Wing regarding Res Officer possibilities.  I went throughout the hangers and asked repeated CF members who should I be speaking with.  No one could come up with the right person on site.  Anyway - I'm not upset at all.  I just loved hanging around, asking questions and getting pictures taken.

Some pain points for the general public - the outhouses got disgusting real quick (didn't bother me though), there was a 45 min lineup for food at all stations at all times and leaving the parking lot was less than fun! Yes, leaving was a pain but I was very patient - but I heard people cursing and swearing out of their window at the soldiers in the orange vests.  That was a shame-those guys stood there all day and weren't paid much respect by some members of the public.  Regardless - I was back in Mississauga at a decent hour.  All in all - a great way to spend a Sunday.

J

 

[observor 69]

What a great weekend! The weather was fairly kind and I think most people had a good time. Parking is a nightmare always but the traffic control today went much more smoothly - kudos to the organisers and the poor buggers on point duty and in the parking lots.
I have to say that there a lot of folk who could use a bit more respect though - the guys were doing their best last night to get people away from the Base after the show, but 15000 cars out of 2 exits takes time! The abuse I heard some drivers hurl at the guys on the points was unnecessary - it is to the credit of the young men and women on duty that they took it all with a smile and stayed helpful to the end. My parents were visiting and commented that all the troops were very polite and helpful - good on you!
One of the coolest sights though was actually when the rain did hit - it was wall like a monsoon that marched down the old runway making the hot dry concrete shine in its wake - and then it hit us... pretty much ENDEX we thought, but out of nowhere the Snow Birds still managed to put on a low level show and were as amazing as ever. Yes, all in all a great weekend - now I want to sleep for a week! 

Ya 15000 reasons why at this late stage having been there done that I do most of my airshow viewing on my HI-Def TV. 

 

[timma]

I was with the WWII  display in hangar 17 for both days. It was a pretty good airshow and there was lots to do , I especially enjoyed the mock FOB , it was very cool. The MP Judgmental simulator was also nice. Overall, a fun weekend.