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UPDATE 1 P.M. The flypast was cancelled because of weather conditions in the region deemed unsafe for the exercise. "While saddened to not be able to fly over, the RCAF wishes HLGen Rohmer a very happy 100th birthday," states an email from Canadian Forces public affairs.
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The Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) was planning a fly past of the Collingwood hospital later today to celebrate the 100th birthday of Second World War veteran, Honourary Lieutenant-General (retired) Richard Rohmer.
Rohmer, a Collingwood resident, flew Mustang aircraft as reconnaissance for operations across Normandy, Belgium, Holland and Germany during the Second World War. He remained part of the RCAF flying Vampire fighters after the war as a commander for two squadrons. He retired in 1953 as a wing commander. He rejoined the air force in the 1970s as an adviser and became Major-General as the chief of reserves.
He became a lawyer and member of the Ontario bar. He has written more than 30 books.
Rohmer was appointed Commander of the Order of Military Merit, and served as honourary advisory to the Chief of the Defence staff, which is where he earned his title of Honourary Lieutenant General.
The RCAF is also celebrating its 100th birthday this year.
Today's flyover was to include aircraft from 400 Tactical Helicopter Squadron and 424 Transport and Rescue Squadron, but it was cancelled because of the weather conditions.
