About this Unit
1908 Communication Squadron is a unit within the Royal Canadian Air Force, primarily responsible for providing secure and reliable communications support to military operations. Established in the post-World War II era, the squadron has played a vital role in both domestic and international missions, ensuring effective command and control capabilities. Over the decades, 1908 Comm Squadron has adapted to advances in technology, supporting a range of operations from peacekeeping to disaster response. The unit continues to uphold its reputation for professionalism and technical expertise within the Canadian Armed Forces.
Historical Facts
• Founding Era: 1908 Communication Squadron (Comm Sqn) traces its lineage back to the pre-digital era, providing crucial communications support to the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF).
• Location: The unit is based in Edmonton, Alberta, serving as a primary Reserve communications squadron in Western Canada.
• Role Evolution: Originally focused on wired and radio communications, the squadron now specializes in modern information and communications technology (ICT), supporting both domestic and international missions.
• Support to Operations: Members of 1908 Comm Sqn have deployed on major CAF operations, including Afghanistan (Operation Athena), peacekeeping in the Balkans, and domestic responses like Operation LENTUS (disaster relief).
• Community Engagement: The squadron participates in local Remembrance Day ceremonies, parades, and outreach programs to promote military communications history and careers.
• Training Excellence: 1908 Comm Sqn is known for running rigorous training exercises, such as field deployments and simulated cyber defense scenarios, to keep its reservists at the cutting edge.
• Tradition of Innovation: The unit has been among the first to adopt new technologies within the Reserve Force, including satellite communication and secure digital networks.
• Joint Operations: 1908 Comm Sqn regularly collaborates with Regular Force communications units and other allied militaries during exercises like Maple Resolve and NATO interoperability events.
• Honours and Awards: Members have received individual commendations for technical expertise, leadership, and contributions to mission success on both domestic and international operations.
• Regimental Identity: The squadron is part of the Canadian Army’s Communications and Electronics Branch, upholding the motto “Velox Versutus Vigilans” (“Swift, Skilled, Alert”) and proudly wearing the distinctive signals cap badge.
