I recall the story being discussed when he passed away in 2000 and also that a writer mentioned the irony of Dorval Airport in Montreal being renamed for him because it used to be an important aircraft facility for the Royal Canadian Air Force during that time and he did this little stunt to annoy the workers and servicemen there. He did indeed serve in the capacity that you mention though.
I can’t find anything that confirms that story, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t true. Google has a way of burying inconvenient truths. 8>)