In 2026, CFB Borden proudly celebrates its 110th anniversary- 110 years of dedication, service, and commitment. Since its beginning in 1916, CFB Borden has played a crucial role in preparing and teaching generations of military members, establishing itself as the largest and one of the most vital training institutions.
First established during the First World War, Base Borden was created to support Canada’s growing need for trained troops. Known at the time as “Sandy Plains,” the site was chosen as the new training ground for Canadian Expeditionary Force battalions preparing for overseas service.
In May 1916, the Barrie and Collingwood companies of the 157th Battalion (Simcoe Foresters), CEF, now perpetuated by the Grey and Simcoe Foresters, arrived under the command of Lieutenant Colonel D.H. MacLaren and began the first stages of constructing the camp. The new military camp was named in honour of Sir Frederick William Borden, Canada’s former Minister of Militia and Defence, whose efforts to modernize and strengthen the militia helped shape Canada’s early military capability.
After the land was cleared, Camp Borden was officially opened in the summer of 1916 by Sir Sam Hughes, then Minister of Militia and Defence. Thousands of soldiers trained at Borden, triggering rapid development and expansion, including the construction of 18 kilometres of trenches designed to replicate the conditions of trench warfare on the Western Front.
As Borden grew, it expanded into air training, beginning in 1917—well before the RCAF was officially formed in 1924. This early start is why Borden is recognized as the birthplace of the Royal Canadian Air Force. Today, that legacy continues through 16 Wing Borden, which delivers key RCAF technical, engineering, and aerospace training.
Since its beginnings in 1916, CFB Borden has now become the largest training establishment in the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) and is home to a variety of different military and Defence Team organizations. Thousands of CAF members have passed through the base, whether beginning their careers here or following their pursuits to Borden with the promise of growth and advanced training. As Canada’s military has evolved, so has Borden to ensure personnel are prepared and equipped to serve Canada at home and abroad.
Today, CFB Borden is not only a national training hub, but it is also a lively and thriving community. The Base supports a diverse population of CAF members, employees, and families. It provides programs and services that contribute to the overall well-being and resilience of those who live or work on the base.
CFB Borden trains about 20,000 military personnel each year, supported by 3,250 military members and 1,500 civilian staff. The base spans a 12 km² training area with an additional 69 km² field training space. It is home to numerous schools and units, including the Canadian Forces Logistics Training Centre (CFLTC), Canadian Forces Health Services Training Centre (CFHSTC), Canadian Forces Military Police Academy (CFMPA), Canadian Forces Fire and CBRN Academy (CFFCA), and 16 Wing Borden, which oversees aerospace and air force training. These moving parts help create a strong sense of connectedness and support, which reinforces Borden’s role as far more than a workplace or training ground, but a community.
At the very heart of CFB Borden’s legacy and commitment are its people. Everyone plays a critical role in shaping the success of the base, whether it be instructors, support staff, civilian employees, or leadership, past and present. The CFB Borden community’s commitment and dedication ensure that Borden continues to uphold the values of teamwork, respect, and service that were first ignited in 1916. Borden represents a formative chapter in many CAF members’ careers, a place where lasting memories and professional foundations are created and moulded.
As CFB Borden looks to the future, the base is set to continue evolving with the growing needs of the CAF. Ongoing investments in infrastructure and accommodations reflect a broader commitment to modernizing facilities and supporting the well-being of military personnel and their families. Borden is also embracing advancements in training methods, including the integration of emerging technologies that will help shape how future CAF members learn and prepare for operational demands. Together, these gradual improvements ensure that the base remains adaptable, forward-looking, and ready to support the CAF for decades to come.
As Borden celebrates this milestone, the base continues to chart a path forward, expanding its capacity, embracing innovation, and ensuring it remains a vital pillar of Canada’s defence community.
