Roundel Lake was dedicated by the Canada Lands Company on 11 December 2012, as part of their redevelopment of Edmonton’s former Canadian Forces Base (Griesbach Barracks).
In the opening weeks of the First World War, an aircraft pilot flying over the lines could expect a volley of rifle fire from either friend or foe on the ground. In an attempt to secure safe passage for pilots flying over friendly lines, the Union Jack in the form of a shield was painted on the underside of British aircraft. This plan was dropped because at a distance the St. George’s Cross in the Union Jack was difficult to distinguish from the German Cross. For inspiration, the Royal Flying Corps turned to their French Allies who had adopted a roundel based on the tricolor. The Royal Flying Corps and the Royal Naval Air Service took this roundel and re-versed the colours, blue outermost with the center red. This same roundel has been carried on British aircraft to date.
On 30 November 1921, the Canadian Air Force was presented with the Blue Ensign of the Royal Air Force to fly as their own. A privilege arranged by Lord Trenchard. The Royal Canadian Air Force retained this privilege at its formation on 1 April 1924 until 5 July 1940 when the Royal Canadian Air Force was authorized to introduce the maple leaf into the roundel in place of the red center. At this time the roundel on the ensign was so revised.
Aircraft flown by Royal Canadian Air Force continued to wear the Royal Air Force roundel since their aircraft, including those built in Canada, all came through Royal Air Force channels. On 19 January 1946, the Royal Canadian Air Force aircraft began to wear their own markings. This roundel is still worn today by aircraft of the Royal Canadian Air Force, Royal Canadian Navy Fleet Air Arm and Canadian Army. The roundel is a blue ring, surrounding a white area in the center of which is the red maple leaf.