Air Force Museum of Alberta

Owen Philp

Colonel O.B. Philp, "Father of the Snowbirds," began his career with Royal Canadian Air Force in 1941 in Saskatchewan, then flew Mitchell bombers and Dakota during the Second World War.

Owen Philp

Colonel O.B. Philp, "Father of the Snowbirds," began his career with Royal Canadian Air Force in 1941 in Saskatchewan, then flew Mitchell bombers and Dakota during the Second World War.

Owen Philp

Owen Bartley “O.B.” Philp organized the Canadian Army’s first glider pilot school then served years as a test pilot. Commanding Officer of the CAF Golden Centennaires in 1967 and founding father of the Canadian Forces Snowbirds in 1971, now entering their 39th successive season of aerial excellence.

Against all odds, O.B. Philp's perseverance was singularly responsible for the establishment of one of Canada's most recognized aviation icons and a world renowned aerobatic team.

Born: 15 Apr 1995
Awards: CM, DFC, CD

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