The Town of Ajax announced it is celebrating the 50th anniversary of the 8th HMS Ajax visit to Ajax in 1976 with a a series of special events.
The township is inviting people to participate in a series of special events commemorating and honouring their veterans and community history. Throughout the month of June, members of the public are invited to learn more about the 1976 visit of the 8th HMS Ajax, its role in WWII, as well as the history of the town’s name.
The town is named after 7th HMS Ajax, one of the Royal Navy cruisers involved in the Battle of the River Plate, a defining early Allied naval victory of the Second World War.
On August 25, 1976, the 8th HMS Ajax docked at Oshawa Harbour, marking a long-awaited visit that became one of the most celebrated moments in the town’s history. This visit was marked with a parade, ceremonies and celebrations to highlight the friendship, respect and shared history between the town and the HMS Ajax officers and crew, said a town statement.
On August 28, 1976, the officers and crew of HMS Ajax were awarded the Freedom of the Town, the highest civic honour Ajax can bestow.
Military History
Ajax preserves its connection to military history through lasting symbols, including the HMS Ajax ship’s bell in Council Chambers, Veteran’s Point at the Ajax waterfront, and streets named after officers, crew and ships connected to the Battle of the River Plate and the 8th HMS Ajax.
The town maintains close ties with the HMS Ajax & River Plate Veterans Association through commemorations, visits, and shared ceremonies.
The 50th anniversary of the 1976 HMS Ajax visit follows closely after another major milestone. 2025 marked the Town of Ajax’s 70th anniversary, celebrating seven decades since the town’s incorporation and growth as a community shaped by wartime purpose and postwar development.
All events planned throughout the month of June will help recognize veterans, celebrate local history and bring residents and visitors together.
Upcoming public events include:
Participate in the HMS Ajax Treasure Hunt
Discover Hidden History of Your Town (running from June 1 – 30): Take part in a month-long adventure across Ajax, as we commemorate and celebrate the 50th anniversary of the 8th HMS visit to Ajax in 1976. Explore landmarks, learn about local history and enjoy the fun for all ages throughout June for a chance to win prizes! Eight locations have been selected around the Town as part of the Treasure Hunt. Once you find all eight locations, complete the online form by June 30 at 11:59 p.m. Prizes will be drawn in July 2026! Three winners will be randomly selected on July 15. Each winner will receive a $20 gift card to a local restaurant of their choosing. Only entries with all eight locations correct will be eligible. Stay tuned on our social media channels and ajax.ca/HMSAjax50 for hints.
HMS Ajax & River Plate Veterans Association Street Dedications (Tuesday, June 2 and Thursday, June 4):
Participate in two special street dedication days – as part of the Association’s visit, the Town and members of the HMS Ajax & River Plate Veterans Association will tour various streets named in honour of veterans who served on HMS Ajax. Each plaque location will be clearly identified with a flag, sign and shovel to assist residents in locating the ceremony venues. Please note that times outlined are approximate.
Step into TOA’s History: HMS Ajax & River Plate Veterans Association Pop-up Exhibit at 25 Mill Street
This engaging exhibit brings the legacy of HMS Ajax to life, showcasing powerful artifacts and personal mementos that honour the ship and its veterans. From a detailed model and Admiral Harwood’s uniform to Battle of the River Plate shrapnel and signed memorabilia, each piece tells a compelling story of service and history.
Shaun Collier, Mayor of Ajax said that “As we mark the 50th anniversary of the 8th HMS visit to Ajax in 1976, I am pleased to see the many ways residents can come together to honour those who helped shape our community and to recognize the invaluable contributions of our veterans. I encourage everyone to participate in our public events and engaging campaigns as we commemorate this milestone and celebrate the vibrant history that continues to define Ajax today.”
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