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THE RETURN OF THE LANCASTER - 60 YEARS IN THE MAKING

Join the Goderich Legion, Branch 109 on June 14, 2024 and witness this historic event and experience the thrill of seeing the Lancaster touch down on the Goderich Regional Airport runway.

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On June 14, 1964, the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) flew retired Lancaster FM213 to Goderich, where the local branch of the Royal Canadian Legion displayed it as a war memorial. In 1977, it was acquired by the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum in Hamilton, where the aircraft was painstakingly restored until its triumphant return to the air in 1988. The Lancaster continues to fly and remains one of only two airworthy examples in the world.

On June 14, 2024 – sixty years to the day since its arrival – the Lancaster is set to make a celebratory return visit to Goderich Regional Airport. This momentous occasion will be celebrated with a series of exciting events and activities, providing a unique opportunity for residents and visitors alike to witness the legendary aircraft, which holds a special place in the hearts of local aviation enthusiasts and history buffs, up close.

Spectators are invited to witness this historic event and experience the thrill of seeing the Lancaster touch down on the runway. Following the arrival, a series of activities and exhibits will be available for attendees to enjoy. On June 15^th, as the aircraft bids farewell to Goderich once again, spectators will be able to witness the aircraft's majesty in flight.

"We are thrilled to welcome back the Lancaster to Goderich on this significant anniversary," said Legion President Randy Carroll. "This iconic aircraft holds a special place in the hearts of our community, and we are honored to have the opportunity to celebrate its history and pay tribute to the brave individuals who served during World War II. We invite everyone to join us in this momentous occasion and experience the magic of the Lancaster firsthand."

The Lancaster is scheduled to arrive on June 14^th at approximately 10 am and depart on June 15^that approximately 2 pm. The visit promises to be an unforgettable experience for young and old alike. This historic event provides a unique opportunity to appreciate the aircraft's remarkable engineering, its historical significance, and the heroic stories that surround it.

Read the official press release here.

SCHEDULE

June 14, 2024
10:00AM	Arrival
10:00 to 2:00PM	BBQ hosted by COPA
10:30 to 11:30AM	Formal welcoming ceremony - dignitary speeches
11:30 to 4:00PM	Lancaster tours open to the public on a first come, first serve basis
4:00 to 5:00PM	Lancaster outside only walk around and viewing - Lancaster will be on display until dusk
5:30PM	Legion reception
6:30PM	Legion dinner - $40.00 per plate
7:00PM	Cadets inspection located at the airport beside the Lancaster
8:00PM	Legion lounge with music until midnight with The Daves I Know

June 15, 2024
10:00 to 11:30AM	Local flyby - dignitary flight
10:00 to 2:00PM	BBQ hosted by Goderich Lions Club
12:30 to 1:30PM	Lancaster outside walk and visual (no interior tours on Saturday)
2:00PM	Lancaster departure

Entry fee, BBQ and parking is by cash donation only. All donations will go back into our community by supporting the local Legion Branch l09, the Goderich Lions Club and COPA.

CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS

The Goderich Legion is seeking 50 volunteers for this historic event. We need parking, traffic and general site assistance. If you'd like to be involved please fill out the volunteer form below.