View From the Legislature

To most Canadians, the Canadian Forces Snowbirds are instantly recognizable. Perhaps not the individual pilots and officers, but the precision flying patterns and planes are very much part of our Canadian identity. It was no surprise than that the Snowbirds, who are based out of 15 Wing Moose Jaw would embark on a cross country tour to lift the spirts of Canadians. Dubbed “Operation Inspiration”, the Snowbirds were making their way across Canada, high above towns and cities, to impress and encourage.

The Manitoba visit by the Snowbirds was particularly meaningful as it occurred on May 12th, Manitoba Day. It was the day that Manitoba officially marked its 150th anniversary of joining Canada. The team made its way from Saskatchewan to Winnipeg making several passes over the city. Social media was instantly filled with pictures and videos as Manitobans thanked the Snowbirds for the flyover visit.

This was a scene repeated in other provinces as millions of Canadians had the chance for a quick glance at the famous team. And then suddenly, tragically, it stopped as inspiration turned to sorrow. Shortly after the team took off from Kamloops, B.C. on May 17th, one of the Snowbirds aircraft crashed. While the two Snowbirds onboard were able to eject from the aircraft, Capt. Jennifer Casey, the 35-year-old public affairs officer for the Canadian Forces Snowbirds was killed. The pilot of the aircraft, Capt. Richard MacDougall, was able to survive the crash with non life-threatening injuries.

Instantly, many of the Canadians who had been inspired by the cross-country tour of the Snowbirds felt connected to the tragedy and sent their condolences and best wishes to the families of Capt. Casey and Capt. MacDougall. In her hometown of Halifax. Capt. Casey was laid to rest after a motorcade wound its way past many of the places that were important to her during her life. Spectators, at the family’s request, were encouraged to wear the colours of the Snowbirds (red and white) or clothing displaying Star Wars, the Tragically Hip or the Montreal Canadians (Capt. Casey was a fan of each).

Capt. MacDougall has received well wishes from across Canada, and especially from Winnipeg residents who got to know him when he was stationed at 17 Wing Winnipeg from 2012-2017. The 34-year-old pilot remains in the prayers of many Canadians.

Canadians are experiencing many emotions during these days. In a short time, the Snowbirds have given us cause to be inspired, and a reason for prayer and reflection. Their most recent days may be symbolic of the lives of many Canadians which are touched by both inspiration and sorrow. But added to these emotions is gratitude, for their willingness to lift up Canadians. May the memory of Capt. Jennifer Casey always inspire us even as we pray for a speedy recovery for Capt. Richard MacDougall.