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Graduations
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The first graduating military pilots in Prince Edward Island received their wings at the No. 9 SFTS on April 16, 1941. Hon. J. L. Ralston, Minister of Defence, made the presentations and addressed the graduates who included two Islanders - Preston Barlow of Wellington and G.P. Aitken of Lower Montague. Guests included the Premier and Mrs. Campbell, the Town Council, Senator Creelman MacArthur, members of the Provincial Legislature and prominent citizens and visitors. After the ceremony the official party toured the facilities and were served light refreshments in the Officers' Mess.

The second class graduated from Course No. 20 on May 5 followed by another on May 27, "attended by a large number of relatives and friends of the fliers." More graduations followed in quick succession over the next year. The ceremonies evolved over time to include participation by the Women's Division and the Air Cadet Squadron, marching to the accompaniment of trumpets and drums.


The graduations took place on the open parade ground on fine days and inside the Drill Hall during inclement weather. They were held at various times of day, often as early as 7:30 a.m. The Commanding Officer or a special guest addressed the graduates who were usually standing in a semi-circle and then conferred the wings. Congratulations were often extended by a special guest such as the Summerside Mayor or the Premier of the province. The ceremony typically ended with a March Past and salute.

Members of the general public could drive out to the Station or take the bus to attend the graduations. Young women from Summerside were enthusiastic to see the wings parades and made many trips to the Station for these events.

On June 22, 1942 the Summerside Journal advised its readers that the final wings parade was fast approaching because the No. 9 School would be relocating to Centralia, Ontario. "The type of school coming here does not have a graduation parade as it will consist of airmen who already have received their wings and are now in advanced work and specialized training." Many local people were at the Station to witness the last ceremony on July 4, 1942.

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