On Father’s Day, the experts at Fort George aren’t the only ones who get to stand behind a cannon and launch it.

Last Sunday, eight fathers had the chance to get in uniform and learn how to launch a cannon, before getting to do it themselves in front of an audience.

George Storm, 80, was one of those fathers. He said his first reaction to the cannon launch was the “big bang in your ears.”

“If you didn’t have the earplugs, you’d be deaf,” Storm said. “It’s like a firecracker.”

He also explained how he felt the impact of the cannon push back toward him once it launched. But with the support of his family and a large crowd watching, Storm stood his ground as he lit the artillery and watched it blow.

To prepare for the big moment, Storm was taught the steps of lighting the cannon. First, the cannon is primed and loaded. Then, a burning piece of rope is used to set off the shot and fire — this was Storm’s job.

He was also suited in the uniform worn by the re-enactors at Fort George and was equipped with earplugs and safety goggles to prepare for the crack of the cannon and the ensuing cloud of smoke.

Once the job was done, Storm walked away with a big smile on his face, a reaction Dan Laroche, site supervisor at Fort George, said happened to each participant.

“It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. They always have a huge grin on their face after they do it,” Laroche said.

While all eight of the slots sold out, other guests at the Fort stopped by to watch the demonstration. Once each participant completed their launch, a round of applause was given.

Storm said this was, unsurprisingly, his first time launching a cannon, and called it a “great experience.” This sentiment could be seen by the smile on his face and the cheers from the crowd.