Wayne Skrawer Ralph: Canadian Military Historian, Author & RCAF Veteran

1. Introduction

Wayne Skrawer Ralph is a name deeply associated with Canadian military aviation history. Known for his dual career as a Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) officer and acclaimed author, Ralph’s legacy is cemented through his detailed historical works and firsthand documentation of Canadian fighter pilots’ experiences.

His unique blend of military insight and literary craftsmanship has made his books valuable resources for history enthusiasts, scholars, and veterans alike. This comprehensive profile offers a closer look into the life, work, and contributions of Wayne Skrawer Ralph, capturing his journey from Newfoundland to the pages of Canadian military history.

2. Early Life and Education

Born in 1946 in the historic province of Newfoundland, Wayne Skrawer Ralph grew up during a period of post-war recovery and evolving Canadian identity. His early years were shaped by the landscape of Newfoundland and the influence of wartime narratives that surrounded his community. These stories would later inspire his own research into military history.

Ralph pursued higher education with dedication. He earned a Bachelor of Arts from Memorial University of Newfoundland, where he likely developed his foundational writing and analytical skills. His intellectual journey didn’t stop there.

He later completed a Master of Arts at the University of Calgary, a degree supported by the Department of National Defence’s Strategic Studies program. His thesis explored Canada’s military procurement process—specifically the acquisition of advanced weapons systems like the CF-18 fighter jet and CP-140 Aurora patrol aircraft. This academic research laid the groundwork for his later works as a military historian.

3. Military Career in the Royal Canadian Air Force

Wayne Skrawer Ralph’s military career began in 1965 when he joined the Royal Canadian Air Force. Over the next eight years, he served as both a pilot and a flying instructor, roles that gave him not only technical knowledge but also firsthand experience of the discipline, responsibility, and strategic mindset required in air combat operations.

His service in the Canadian Forces between 1965 and 1973 placed him in a dynamic military environment during the Cold War. While much of his flight time was spent in training roles, his responsibilities offered a front-row seat to Canada’s evolving air power strategy. This real-world experience would later prove invaluable as he transitioned into writing about military aviation history with both authenticity and authority.

4. Civilian Career and Editorial Work

After leaving military service, Wayne Skrawer Ralph seamlessly transitioned into the civilian world, particularly the commercial aviation industry. His deep understanding of aircraft and aviation systems made him a natural fit for both operational and editorial roles.

He also pursued aerospace journalism, contributing to industry publications such as Wings Magazine, where he served as a contributing editor. In this role, Ralph provided insights on aircraft, flight safety, defense policy, and Canadian military affairs. His commentary was not only well-informed but also accessible to both professionals and casual readers alike.

Wayne Skrawer Ralph has also held several leadership positions, including:

President of the Air Force Officers Association of Greater Vancouver
Member of the Air Force Association of Canada

These affiliations underscore his continued involvement in preserving Canada’s aviation heritage.

5. Literary Contributions of Wayne Skrawer Ralph

5.1. Barker VC: The Life, Death and Legend of Canada’s Most Decorated War Hero

In 1997, Wayne Skrawer Ralph authored one of his most acclaimed works, Barker VC, a biography of William George Barker, Canada’s most decorated war hero from World War I. This book was not merely a retelling of Barker’s life—it was an exhaustive historical analysis that combined military records, personal correspondence, and battlefield accounts.

The book became an instant bestseller in both Canada and the United Kingdom, earning praise for its depth and narrative power. Ralph’s careful research and gripping storytelling earned him the McWilliams Medal from the Manitoba Historical Society, awarded for excellence in Canadian military writing.

Barker VC was also adapted into two television documentaries, further expanding Ralph’s impact beyond print and into the realm of film and education.

5.2. Aces, Warriors and Wingmen: Firsthand Accounts of Canada’s Fighter Pilots in the Second World War

In 2005, Wayne Skrawer Ralph published Aces, Warriors and Wingmen, a compilation of firsthand interviews with over 100 Canadian fighter pilots from World War II. This book is especially valuable for its oral history format, capturing raw, authentic stories from veterans before their voices were lost to time.

Through stories of dogfights, loss, brotherhood, and bravery, Ralph preserves a crucial part of Canadian military heritage. His interviews illuminate both the technical aspects of air combat and the emotional lives of those who fought, making this book a treasured record for families, historians, and future generations.

6. Contributions to Film and Television

Wayne Skrawer Ralph’s talents also extended to the film and television industry, where he worked in the transportation departments of various productions. His participation behind the scenes added yet another layer to his multifaceted career.

His credits include:

Year	Title	Role
2017	The Shack	Transportation Department
2017	Loudermilk	Transportation Crew
2018	Altered Carbon	Unit Transportation Manager

His experience in the fast-paced world of TV and film demonstrated his adaptability and his interest in visual storytelling alongside his literary work.

7. Photography and Online Presence

A man of many talents, Wayne Skrawer Ralph is also an avid aviation photographer. His photos capture historic aircraft, air shows, and military ceremonies, complementing his writing with visual documentation.

Ralph maintains an active Twitter presence, where he shares historical tidbits, aviation news, and photos. This engagement reflects his commitment to education and outreach, using digital platforms to keep Canadian military history alive and accessible.

8. Legacy and Impact

Wayne Skrawer Ralph’s contributions to Canadian history extend well beyond the printed page. His work as an author, veteran, and historian has:

Preserved the voices of Canadian military heroes
Deepened public understanding of Canadian air power
Inspired new generations of military historians and enthusiasts

He has masterfully combined academic rigor with accessible storytelling, ensuring his books are as enjoyable for the average reader as they are useful for scholars and researchers.