Kingston’s Benjamin Barrett Thrills Audiences with Skyhawks’ Daring Jumps

Benjamin Barrett, a Kingston native, is living out a dream as a member of the Canadian Armed Forces’ parachute team, known as the Skyhawks. For seven months each year, Barrett participates in thrilling aerial displays, showcasing his skills and the team’s precision. Recently, he captivated audiences during the Wheels on the Runway event on September 20, 2025.

“There is no experience like it, honestly,” Barrett stated, reflecting on the exhilarating sensation of free-falling. “You’re weightless in the sky, seeing everything. It’s hard to explain.” His passion for skydiving transformed from a bucket list desire into a fulfilling career representing Canada in various performances.

Barrett joined the Canadian Armed Forces in 2015 and became part of the Skyhawks two years ago. The team welcomes members from regular and reserve forces across all trades and classifications. As a trained rigger, an expert in parachute equipment, Barrett was well-suited for this prestigious role. “All you need is 50 jumps, support from your chain of command, and to be qualified in your trade to apply. I did that last year, and I got picked up,” he explained.

Preparation for the Skyhawks involves rigorous training. Barrett, responsible for instructing team members on parachute packing, describes the process as technical yet manageable with practice. “We have a ground training week to ensure everyone’s skills are up to par for packing and ground skills before our big training camp down in California,” he noted.

During the training camp, which lasts five weeks, the team performs up to eight jumps a day, honing their aerial skills and formations. Barrett’s responsibilities also include conducting thorough buddy checks to ensure that parachutes are packed correctly.

At the recent air show, Barrett’s role involved filming the “three stag drag” formation from the sky. Typically, he showcases his skills in parabatics, performing intricate maneuvers while linked with another jumper. “We’ll do a barrel roll or a butterfly, all while connected, using the strength of our legs,” he described.

In total, Barrett has completed over 800 jumps, with approximately 600 of those with the Skyhawks. The altitude from which they jump varies based on the type of performance; for shows, they leap from 6,000 feet, deploying parachutes immediately for formation displays. In contrast, tandem and free fall jumps occur from 12,500 feet, allowing more time for free-falling thrills.

Beyond their aerial performances, the Skyhawks serve as ambassadors for the Canadian Armed Forces, fostering connections with the public. Barrett emphasized the joy of interacting with spectators after a jump. “You get to see the families and the kids, and they are so excited to see us perform. Being able to bring that joy to the public and showcase the professionalism of the Canadian Armed Forces is what means the most to me,” he said.

According to the Canadian Forces General Messages (CANFORGEN), the Skyhawks perform for over two million people worldwide each year, making their role vital in bridging the military with the communities it serves. Barrett’s dedication and enthusiasm exemplify the spirit of the Skyhawks, continuing to inspire future generations through their thrilling aerial feats.