The Owen Sound Billy Bishop Regional Airport in Meaford has undergone a transformation, unveiling a new name, renovated facilities, and a soon-to-open restaurant.
The renaming ceremony took place on Thursday, September 12, with special guest Honourary Lieutenant General Richard Rohmer in attendance, who now lends his name to the airport.
Rohmer, one of Canada’s most decorated citizens, served as a WWII fighter-reconnaissance pilot and retired Major General. He holds numerous honours, including the Distinguished Flying Cross, Commander of the Order of Military Merit, and membership in both the Order of Canada and the Order of Ontario.
In recognition of his contributions, the airport has been renamed the Major-General Richard Rohmer Meaford International Airport.
Thursday’s ceremony featured speeches from notable figures, including Ontario’s Lieutenant Governor Edith Dumont, Meaford Mayor Ross Kentner, Lt.-Col. Joe Tobin, and Airport Owner Rick Horwath. Each speaker highlighted Rohmer's legacy of service, dedication, and leadership, noting the impact he has had both on the ground and in the skies.
The airport has undergone a series of upgrades, including a newly painted red roof, improved landscaping, and a large deck area adjacent to the renovated terminal building. A new restaurant will retain a connection to its previous namesake, honouring WWI flying ace and Victoria Cross recipient Billy Bishop, now named "William’s on 26."
This renaming brings an end to the presence of two Billy Bishop-named airports in Canada. Since 2009, Toronto City Airport has been named after Billy Bishop, and with Meaford's airport now dedicated to Richard Rohmer, the two airports will no longer share the same title.