430 Tactical Helicopter Squadron
Significance: The gyrfalcon, found in northern Canada, is noted for its exceptional and alert fighting ability. The sun in splendour is used to depict the squadron's original role of fighter reconnaissance, the bringing of light or information to the troops.
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430 Tactical Helicopter Squadron (430 THS) primarily supports the Canadian Army. The squadron is located at Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Valcartier, Quebec.
The “Silver Falcon” squadron has a rich history. It served as a reconnaissance squadron during World War II. It was later reformed in North Bay as a fighter squadron, equipped with F-86 Sabres. In 1970, the unit moved to Zwiebrucken, Germany, where it flew the CF-104 Starfighter. The squadron was disbanded in 1970.
Reactivated in 1971, the unit was assigned to CFB Valcartier as a Tactical Helicopter Squadron and equipped with the CH-135 Twin Huey and the CH-136 Kiowa. Since then, 430 THS has been affiliated with 5 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group. In 1994, the squadron's fleet was replaced by the CH-146 Griffon.
430 THS has participated in several international missions, in locations including Haiti, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Kosovo, Afghanistan, Iraq, and Mali.
The complete squadron history is available on the National Defence, Directorate of History and Heritage website.
430 Tactical Helicopter Squadron
PO BOX 1000 Stn Forces
Courcelette QC G0A 4Z0
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