Senator Pamela Wallin on the passing of Captain Jenn Casey, May 19 2020

Along with so many Canadians, I am heartbroken at the loss of Captain Jenn Casey. My thoughts and prayers are also with Captain Rich MacDougall and his family. The Snowbirds are iconic and have brought so much joy to Canadians over the years. It is the sad irony of Operation Inspiration that as the Snowbirds set out to honour our front-line workers across the country, their sacrifice continued.

But the Snowbird team remains an inspiration to the thousands of young boys and girls who watch their dedication, discipline and daring. And for so many of us across the country seeking to be free of the constraints of lockdown, watching the Snowbirds soar has given us hope!

I have wonderful memories of flying with the Snowbirdsfirst as a young reporter, and then years later as HonCol of the RCAF. Flying over Parliament Hill on Canada Day in 2012 with now Major Denis Bandet was both thrilling and life changing. It was also an honour and privilege to have the opportunity to meet the team.

It was with great pride that I was able to present RCAF Lt.Col. Mike French with a Senate 150 Medal on Parliament Hill in 2017, honoring all Snowbirds, past and present. As a Senator from Saskatchewan, I am very proud of 15 Wing Moose Jaw, the home of the Snowbirds, for their commitment to community and country.

As a former Honorary Colonel, I still feel part of the extraordinary RCAF family.

Please know that my thoughts are with the team and the community. I know that they will soon be flying again, into that incredible Saskatchewan sky and beyond. Per aspera Ad Astra.

The Honourable Pamela Wallin, O.C., S.O.M. Independent Senator for Saskatchewan