429 Transport Squadron reestablished for C-17s

At Trenton:

An initial squadron capability will be in place for the arrival of the first C-17 aircraft in early August. As Canada’s remaining three C-17s are delivered between October and April 2008, the squadron’s operating capabilities will correspondingly increase. The squadron will consist of approximately 200 members, including such positions as pilots, loadmasters and technicians.

The acquisition of strategic lift aircraft is a landmark event, as it will provide the Canadian Forces with an independent means to rapidly and reliably and flexibly move heavy equipment over vast distances in response to domestic or international crises - delivering more troops and equipment faster to alleviate suffering. It also reduces the number of crews and stopovers required, and will alleviate the workload for the aging tactical Hercules fleet.

An account of the original squadron, and what recently happened to it.