Greater Trail residents who enjoyed the film "Trophy Town" will not want to miss "Wings of Honour" playing at the Royal Theatre in Trail this weekend.
The film honouring the 100-year history of the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) is written and directed by Robert Barrett, the same filmmaker who crafted "Trophy Town", and shared the story of the '61 World Champion Smoke Eaters with the rest of the world.
"The Royal Canadian Air Force represents the epitome of courage, resilience, and honour," said Barrett. "With 'Wings of Honour,' we want to tell the story of the extraordinary contribution of the air force to protect the freedoms all Canadians cherish.”
Much like the '61 Smoke Eaters film, Barrett immersed himself in his latest feature-length documentary from Canadian Geographic Films, and presents a powerful, emotional, and inspiring story of the RCAF.
Their story begins at recruitment into the British Commonwealth Air Training Program, which saw over 130,000 air crew trained to serve in Bomber and Fighter Command.
"For me the RCAF, really first makes it's impact known in World War II, where young men and women joined in the fight against the Nazis," said Barrett.
“Please remember that several members of the Smoke Eaters organization joined the RCAF during the war,” said Barrett. “Steve Saprunoff was held in a POW camp, and goalie Buck Buchanan died in a plane crash near Yorkshire, England on Jan. 6, 1942.”
The Toronto filmmaker travelled extensively across Canada and interviewed more than 140 men and women, past and present members of the RCAF, as well as Canadian astronauts Jeremy Hansen and Chris Hadfield.
For the RCAF, the 100-plus year old members are legends, with the ages of the film's cast ranging from 15 to 105 years.
"It was their courage, commitment, character and sacrifice that made victory possible. It is their shoulders from which future generations stand."
Filming commenced in 2019, and the filmmaker was entrusted with an all-access pass to spend time with crews as they trained.
"I flew in all manner of aircraft in some incredibly beautiful Canadian postcard scenes, I sat with vets in their living rooms to hear their stories," Barrett explained.
Through its backdrop of rarely seen RCAF and National Film Board archival footage, and Barrett's dramatic contemporary footage, the film showcases compelling stories from former and current RCAF members from across the country, evoking Canadian pride and appreciation for those that have served.
"As Commander of the RCAF, I am immensely proud of the dedication and achievements of our members throughout our 100-year history," said Lt-Gen Eric Kenny, Commander of the Royal Canadian Air Force in a release.
"'Wings of Honour' beautifully captures the service of thousands of Canadians to the Royal Canadian Air Force and the profound impact we have had on our country and the world."
Through its journey, the film provides deep insight into what it has meant for its members to be soldiers, humanitarians, patriots, and guardians of Canadian sovereignty.
"Wings of Honour" not only reveals its personal stories in a compelling way, but also anchors a lasting educational legacy that will resonate with subsequent generations.
"The adventure in making this film and meeting such incredible members makes me proud to be a Canadian.
"It was an honour and privilege to share their story," added Barrett. "The story of the RCAF! I will always carry the experience in my heart."
The Royal Theatre will showcase two screenings at 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 9 and Sunday, Nov. 10. Veterans, active military, and cadets are free.
