Press Release: Transformative Legacy Gift from the Late John Balushak

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum Announces Transformative Legacy Gift from the Late John Balushak

Brandon, MB — January 9, 2026
The Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum (CATPM) is honoured to announce a remarkable legacy gift of $1.6 million from the late John Balushak, a long-time supporter, life member, and friend of the museum.

A retired engineer with Manitoba Hydro, Mr. Balushak passed away on March 22, 2024, at the age of 89. Throughout his life, he combined a love of engineering and aviation with a quiet commitment to preserving Canada’s Second World War history. Though he never sought attention for his generosity, his support of the museum was constant and heartfelt, his framed lifetime-membership certificate held a place of pride in his home, a quiet testament to how much the museum meant to him.

“John Balushak exemplified the spirit of the community that built this museum,” said Zoe McQuinn, Director General of the CATPM. “He believed deeply in honouring the service and innovation of those who trained through the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan, and his legacy gift will help us carry that story forward for future generations.”

Mr. Balushak’s planned gift will play a pivotal role in the museum’s ongoing transformation, supporting the preservation of aircraft, archives, and training artifacts, and helping to expand educational programs that connect new generations to the story of Canadian service, resilience, and ingenuity.

Mr. Balushak’s legacy reminds us that even the quietest acts of generosity can leave a lasting mark. His passion for flight and history will continue to inspire everyone who walks through the museum’s doors. His gift ensures that his love of aviation and his belief in remembrance will continue to inspire for decades to come.

To learn more about supporting the important work of the Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum, or to make a donation, please visit www.airmuseum.ca or contact Zoe McQuinn, Director General, at DirectorGeneral@CATPM.onmicrosoft.com.

Above & Below: Mr. John Balushak
The RCAF Memorial Airman Statue at the CATPM

War Cake Recipe: A Taste of History

Archives volunteer, Lisa, came across a recipe for “war cake”, so she made one for us to try at the volunteer lunch this month. To recreate an authentic feel, the story and recipe were written out – by hand! The cake was enjoyed by volunteers. If you try it yourself, please let us know how it went in the comments!

At left is a photo of the cake made by Lisa following the war time recipe. Below you can read the story behind the cake and the recipe.

Press Release: Open House November 11

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Join Us for Remembrance Day at the Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum

Brandon, MB — [November 3, 2025]

Following morning Remembrance Day ceremonies across the community, the Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum (CATPM) and RCAF WWII Memorial invite the public to a free Open House on Tuesday, November 11, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m.

This annual event offers a meaningful way to continue the day’s reflection in a place that honours those who served and trained through the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan and the Royal Canadian Air Force. Visitors are welcome to explore the museum’s exhibits, view historic aircraft, and spend a quiet moment at the RCAF WWII Memorial. Complimentary coffee and treats will be served.

Event Details:

Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum & RCAF WWII Memorial

300 Commonwealth Way, Brandon, MB (turnoff just before Brandon Municipal Airport)

Tuesday, November 11 | 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Free admission – everyone welcome

Media Contact:
Zoe McQuinn
Director General
Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum & RCAF WWII Memorial
DirectorGeneral@CATPM.onmicrosoft.com 
204-727-2444

CATPM Excited to Welcome Historic Boeing Stearman Kaydet

Press Release: Brandon, MB – October 2, 2025

 The Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum (CATPM) is excited to announce the acquisition of a Boeing Stearman Kaydet, a legendary training aircraft that played a key role in preparing Allied pilots during the Second World War. This classic biplane adds a new dimension to the Museum’s collection and helps bring to life the stories of courage, innovation, and service that shaped the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan (BCATP).

First flown in Wichita, Kansas in 1934, the Stearman quickly became one of the most important training aircraft of the war. More than 8,400 were built, and it is estimated that half of all U.S. military pilots received their initial flight instruction in a Stearman. In Canada, the RCAF operated 300 PT-27 models at Elementary Flying Training Schools across the Prairies in 1942. Although quickly replaced by enclosed-cockpit trainers better suited to winter flying, the Stearman remains a powerful symbol of the Allied training experience.

The aircraft joining CATPM’s collection was built in 1943. Like many Stearmans, it was converted for civilian use after the war and is currently painted bright orange. “It is a beautiful plane but we are hoping to gain support to restore it to the original wartime RCAF colours,” said Zoe McQuinn, Director General of CATPM. This aircraft was generously donated to the museum by Mr. Gerry Papp, of Winnipeg. 

“This Stearman is a wonderful addition to our collection,” said Jeff Bell, CATPM Pilot and Head of the Flying Committee. “It’s not just an airplane – it’s a story of training, resilience, and heritage that we can now share with visitors for years to come.”

Media Contact:

Zoe McQuinn, Director General

Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum & RCAF WWII Memorial

300 Commonwealth Way, McGill Field, Brandon, MB, Canada, R7A 5Y5

204- 727-2444

A Stearman covered in snow at an Elementary Flying Training School (EFTS) in Alberta, during WWII.