205 Nanaimo Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron was founded on November 12, 1942 in the middle of World War Two. The first commanding officer was Flying Officer Jack Fouraces, with the sponsor being the Nanaimo School Board of Trustees. The Squadron paraded in the John Shaw High School gymnasium. Over the years the sponsoring committees have changed (in order) from the Lions Club of Nanaimo, The Rotary Club of Nanaimo, and the United Appeal. The 808 Thunderbird Wing Royal Canadian Air Force Association took over the role of sponsor in 1974, and today is still one of our current sponsors. There commitment and partnership has been an incredible benefit to our team and squadron.

In 1992 the 205 Nanaimo Squadron changed its name to 205 Collishaw Squadron to honour Nanaimo’s World War One Ace and World War Two hero, Raymond Collishaw who was born on November 22nd in Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada. He was noted as a great leader in the air, coming up with many air formations of his own. He fought in both world wars and the Russian civil war. When the First World War broke out, Raymond’s first idea was to join the royal navy. He then joined the air force and completed his flight training in Toronto, Ontario. Raymond Collishaw was considered one of the all time best ace fighters.

Air Vice Marshal Raymond Collishaw, CB, DSO & Bar, OBE, DSC, DFC (November 22, 1893-September 28, 1976).s