On Friday, May 2, a sold-out audience gathered at the KF Centre for Excellence for a powerful and poignant edition of the Centre’s Speaking Series, titled Triumph & Tragedy: The Tale of WWII’s Most Accomplished Bomber, Mosquito ‘F for Freddie’ – a story marking the 80th anniversary of VE Day.
Presented by renowned aviation historian Richard de Boer, the evening commemorated the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day and the extraordinary story of F for Freddie — a combat veteran Mosquito bomber that completed 213 operations during WWII, only to tragically crash in Calgary two days after the war’s end. The Mosquito ‘F for Freddie’ VE Day story offers a unique lens to explore not just military history, but the emotional toll and triumphs of war.
Hosted in front of the Centre’s own de Havilland Mosquito aircraft, the event offered a compelling blend of historical insight, local connection, and remembrance. De Boer’s passion for aviation and decades of research resonated deeply with the 200 attendees.
“This story isn’t just about an aircraft — it’s about legacy, resilience, and the price of peace,” said de Boer. “Telling Freddie’s story on the 80th anniversary of VE Day in front of a Mosquito tribute aircraft was a true honour.”
If you missed the event, you can now watch the full Triumph & Tragedy Speaking Series presentation by Richard de Boer on KF Centre for Excellence’s YouTube channel.
The KF Centre for Excellence remains committed to preserving and sharing Canada’s aviation legacy. Events like this honour the past and inspire future generations to explore the incredible history behind iconic aircraft like the Mosquito. Plans are already underway for future editions of the Speaking Series, promising more unforgettable evenings of insight, remembrance, and discovery.
