A rewarding experience: RCAF squadrons visit Camp BUCKO

October 6, 2026 – Defence Stories

Estimated read time: 1:40

By: Captain Jackson Bergsma

Members of 424 Transport and Rescue Squadron and 450 Tactical Helicopter Squadron (THS) visited Camp BUCKO on August 17, giving 52 young burn injury survivors a firsthand look at Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) aircraft and search and rescue operations.

The visit featured aircraft flypasts, a static display of a CH-147F Chinook helicopter, and a search and rescue (SAR) demonstration.

The day began when the Chinook helicopter from 450 THS conducted a flypast and landed in a nearby sports field. Campers and staff explored the helicopter, learned about its role, and spoke with aircrew members about military aviation.

“I am incredibly grateful for the warm welcome that we received at Camp BUCKO,” said Captain Maxwell Sunohara, first officer with 450 THS. “It was a privilege to fly in and spend time with the campers, volunteers, and staff. Seeing firsthand the strength, resilience, and sense of community that makes Camp BUCKO so special was truly inspiring.”

Later, members of 424 Transport and Rescue Squadron conducted a SAR demonstration using a CH-146 Griffon helicopter. Two SAR technicians entered the water. One demonstrated self-recovery techniques, while the other was extracted using a rescue harness and the Griffon’s hoist system. Campers and staff then met the technicians and learned about their role.

Founded in 1995, Camp BUCKO is a registered Ontario charity that provides summer camp experiences for burn injury survivors between the ages of seven and seventeen. The only camp of its kind in Ontario, it fosters confidence, personal growth, and belonging through activities such as archery, canoeing, kayaking, and climbing.

Patrick Hayter, vice-president of Camp BUCKO, said many campers value being in an environment where they can connect with other young burn injury survivors who understand their experiences. For some, the camp provides a rare opportunity to feel fully included and form new friendships.

“[Campers] come here as strangers and go home with a whole group of friends,” Hayter said. “They realize they’re not alone.”

Hayter said support from organizations like the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) helps create memorable experiences for campers while exposing them to opportunities they may not have otherwise considered.

For participating CAF members, the visit reinforced the importance of community engagement and the positive impact military members can have beyond their operational duties. Meeting with campers, volunteers, and staff provided firsthand insight into the confidence, resilience, and sense of belonging Camp BUCKO helps foster.