Station Gypsumville was one of the heavy radar sites making up the Pinetree Line controlled by Air Defence Command. The unit was designated a NORAD Surveillance Site, and was operationally controlled by 24th NORAD Region with Headquarters in Great Falls, Montana. The role of the unit was to provide a means of detecting and defending against hostile manned bombers, and air-breathing missiles.
Being a radar station, most unit personnel were technicians. The radar complex, comprised of Air Defence technicians, radar technicians and communications technicians was headed by a Chief Ground Environment Officer. Heads of Support Service Sections reported directly to the Commanding Officer.
Station Gypsumville lacked the noisy glamour of the larger base, however, in the quiet performance of its assigned function, there was a distinct pride in the activity executed.
A total of 97 PMQ's were provided with an additional 25 trailer spaces available on the station. The station also provided an Officer's Mess, Senior NCO's Mess and a Junior Ranks Mess. All ranks ate in the Combined Mess. Station services included a post office, an Exchange/Groceteria, a snack bar, a station swimming pool, dry cleaning, barber shop, library, Hospital, dental clinic, credit union, auto club, chapel and a parish hall.
There were two general stores in Gypsumville, 10 miles from the station, and one in St. Martin, 6 miles away. The nearest hardware store, drug store, and bank (Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce) were located in Ashern, 40 miles south of the unit. A Liquor Control Commission outlet is located in Gypsumville and Ashern.
- Excerpts from a CFS Gypsumville Information Booklet - circa 1974