1

The Diefenbunker was an especially unique posting for many people. Many former employees remember having been surprised to discover that CFS Carp was in fact a top secret underground facility, and that they would be expected to work, and even live, in this underground base during their post. The strange and somewhat intimidating underground component created the potential for a number of problems; psychologists were brought in to reduce claustrophobic tendencies and to ensure a degree of normalcy. Former employees, however, say that psychologists were not entirely necessary, a strong sense of community and comradery and a number of fun social activities is what kept employees motivated to complete their tasks, and served to keep a high morale. The vast majority of former employees considered CFS Carp as their favorite posting. The most significant reason for this is the strong sense of community and the strong social bond that existed between staff - military or civilian.

2

Winter Carnival (Tug of War)
circa 1977
Carp, Ontario, Canada

Credits:
Diefenbunker Archives

3

Winter Carnival (Games)
circa 1977
Carp, Ontario, Canada

Credits:
Diefenbunker Archives

4

Winter Carnival (Toss)
circa 1977
Carp, Ontario, Canada

Credits:
Diefenbunker Archives

5

Winter Carnival was one of the most popular social events for employees at CFS Carp. Employees were divided into teams and would compete in a variety of fun and crazy games. None of the Winter Carnival games were supposed to require skill or athleticism; they were all about having fun and increasing morale. Employees competed in events such as ring toss, tug-of-war and snow shoeing competitions - some men even dressed up as women to compete in the games!

6

Janet Puddicombe (Winter Carnival Games)
28 June 2011
Message Control Centre, Diefenbunker Museum

Credits:
Lara Lavelle (Interviewer)

7

Helen Rousseau (Winter Carnival)
4 July 2011
Beaton Library, Diefenbunker Museum

Credits:
Lara Lavelle (Interviewer)

8

Brenda Langman (Winter Carnival Games)
26 August 2011
Board Room, Diefenbunker Museum

Credits:
Lara Lavelle (Interviewer)

9

The Cafeteria was the social centre of the Diefenbunker. Employees could come to the Cafeteria to enjoy a game in the recreation area, or to enjoy a nice meal with colleagues and friends. One of the most important social events at the Diefenbunker was the annual Christmas Dinner. Many CFS Carp employees were expected to work over the Christmas Holidays; Christmas Dinner gave them something to look forward to. Senior Officers were responsible for serving the feast to the lower ranks, much to the amusement of the junior ranks.

10

Eating in the Cafeteria
circa 1962
CFS Carp, Carp, Ontario, Canada

Credits:
Diefenbunker Archives

11

CFS Carp Christmas Dinner
circa 1962
CFS Carp, Carp, Ontario, Canada

Credits:
Diefenbunker Archives

12

Dave McBride (Canteen/Recreation)
24 June 2011
Message Control Centre, Diefenbunker Museum

Credits:
Lara Lavelle (Interviewer)

13

Don Roper (Mess Hall)
7 July 2011
Board Room, Diefenbunker Museum

Credits:
Lara Lavelle (Interviewer)

14

Diefenbunker Cafeteria Canteen
circa 1962
CFS Carp, Carp, Ontario, Canada

Credits:
Diefenbunker Archives