Miranda BrumwellThe Aquino Tank Weekend rolls through Oshawa on June 9-10, 2018. This all-ages weekend promises to have activities to keep the entire family entertained.
“It’s not your typical military show, more like a CAF Family Day…it’s not just for military and military enthusiasts,” said Jeremy Blowers, executive director of the Ontario Regiment RCAC (Royal Canadian Armoured Corps) Museum.
The weekend was named after the Battle Honour unique to the Ontario Regiment among all other regiments of the Second World War. The Ontario Regiment fought single-handed against German Forces to break the Hitler Line. The RCAC Museum pays tribute to this battle by calling the weekend Aquino Tank Weekend.
“During the weekend, we bring out our Second World War vets we still have. We have three vets here in Oshawa. We recognize them in front of the public and put on a re-enactment that tells the story of the Aquino Battle,” said Blowers.
Video courtesy of Ontario Regiment Museum
Over 70 military vehicles will be showcased on this weekend, made up of about 30 tanks and several armoured vehicles from the Second World War through to Afghanistan. Blowers said some will be operational to give attendees the experience of riding in a tank or see others on display.
Last year’s Tank Weekend brought in just over 5,000 people and with the pre-sale tickets, this year’s number is projected to be between six and 7,000 people, and it’s not just general public attending anymore.
“Now we have many regiments, reserve regiments, we have at least eight cadet corps from all over Southern Ontario, they’re all getting on buses and coming in for the weekend,” said Blowers.
Tickets are currently on sale on the Ontario Regiment RCAC Museum’s website. Adult tickets are $40, child tickets are $10 and veterans or currently serving military personnel pay just $30.
For more information click here.
