Photo: The new 426 Transport Training Squadron Honorary Colonel (HCol), Gregory Parker (right); is joined by the outgoing HCol Dr. Ann Marie Vaughan (left); Lieutenant-Colonel Gregor Jackson, Commanding Officer of 426 (Transport) Training Squadron (center); and Squadron Chief Warrant Officer (SCWO), CWO Glen Slauenwhite (standing); as HCol Parker formalizes his investiture during a ceremony at 8 Wing, Trenton, Ontario, on November 4, 2024. Photo by: Corporal Natasha Punt, 8 Wing Imagary Technician.
Members of the 426 (Transport) Training “Thunderbird” Squadron welcomed the Squadron’s new Honorary Colonel (HCol), Gregory Parker, during an investiture ceremony at 8 Wing/Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Trenton, on November 4, 2024. They also bid a fond farewell to HCol Dr. Ann Marie Vaughan, who served the “Thunderbird” Squadron since December 2017.
HCol Parker grew up in Trenton, Ontario, and graduated with a degree in economics from Connecticut College, on a hockey scholarship, since he was and remains an avid sports enthusiast, with his primary passions being golf and hockey. He then attended law school at the University of Ottawa, where he focused on business and real estate law. He was the President of both the Sports & Entertainment Society and the Business Law Society.
HCol Parker has a strong commitment in supporting the local community. In the past he has been the Director for the Quinte Healthcare Corporation, President for the Kiwanis Club of Trenton, and Chair of the YMCA Strong Kids Campaign.
Quotes
“Having grown up in the Quinte West (Trenton) area, I have a firm understanding and appreciation of 8 Wing, and the impact it has on the local communities. 8 Wing and its military members are the foundation of Quinte West, which includes not only the service men and women but their families. I am extremely proud and privileged to be a part of 8 Wing and the Royal Canadian Air Force, with a keen focus on providing support and stability to our military families in the local community. I look forward to fulfilling my role and duties as Honorary Colonel for the 426 (Transport) Training Squadron.”
Honorary Colonel Gregory Parker, 426 (Training) Transport Squadron Honorary Colonel
“The role of the Honorary Colonel is to be a solid bridge to the community, to raise the profile of the Squadron, and to act as an advisor. Honorary Colonel Parker, as a pillar of the local community is the ideal person who will support Squadron members and their families. Welcome to the Thunderbird family, Honorary Colonel Parker! A big thanks to Honorary Colonel Vaughan for her exceptional dedication and unparalleled support, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic!”
Lieutenant-Colonel Gregor Jackson, Commanding Officer of 426 (Training) Transport Squadron
Quick Facts
The Honorary rank is “honorary and advisory,” and honorary rank does not confer authority or command function. Honoraries can provide continuity within the unit on matters of community events and activities, unit traditions, etc. – of importance can be speaking to new recruits and young officers on unit history and traditions.
426 (Transport) Training Squadron carries out between 80 and 125 serials for 25 different courses every year to generate operationally effective Air Mobility aircrew and technicians in support of Canadian Armed Forces operations.
Members of 426 (Transport) Training Squadron work at the Air Mobility Training Centre located at 8 Wing Trenton. The facility was designed and built to accommodate the latest in aircrew and technician simulation, making it one of the most advanced training facilities in the world.
Members of 426 (Transport) Training Squadron train and prepare aircrew, technicians and aeromedical personnel to serve on the CC-130 Hercules (H and J) and CC-150 Polaris aircraft.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
