The Chronicle Herald (Provincial)
‘Our beloved sailor’ remembered
The cold, grey waters of Halifax Harbour provided a sombre backdrop as a representative of the family of Sub.-lt. Matthew Pyke read a statement on their behalf in front of a small group of assembled media and Canadian Armed Forces personnel.
Pyke was one of six CAF members lost on Wednesday in the crash of HMCS Fredericton's CH-148 Cyclone helicopter off the coast of Greece.
“He passed away doing what he felt he was born to do — serve others,” Lt. (N) Melissa Kia read. “Matthew was a proud member of the Royal Canadian Navy, and a patriotic Canadian. He fell in the line of duty for his nation, a finality which deeply aligned with his ethos of honour, and helping others before self.”
The statement described Pyke as a community leader and loyal Nova Scotian with roots that ran so deep that they drove him to set service protecting others as his life goals.
“Whether he was protecting his hometown in Rawdon, Nova Scotia, as a volunteer firefighter, or while in service in the Royal Canadian Navy, Matthew was happiest when he knew he was contributing to something greater than himself,” Kia said under grey skies in a cold wind off the sea.
“A true Maritimer, Matthew led with his heart on his sleeve, and was always ready to help. And as East Coasters are known for, he loved a good time. His easy-going nature and happiness were his most infectious gifts. He had a laugh which could light up any room, and a sharp sense of humour. He was continually on the lookout for his friends and family, and could make the best of most any situation.”
The family offered condolences to the families of the others who lost their lives in the crash: Sub.-lt. Abbigail Cowbrough, Capt. Brenden Ian Macdonald, Capt. Kevin Hagen, Capt. Maxime Mironmorin, and Master Cpl. Matthew Cousins.
“Our hearts are eternally tied to the families who share the scar we shall all forever carry,” Kia read.
“Though we know he is not coming home, we will carry the light of his memory within us. Go lightly, fair son, and do not worry for us. We know we’ll hear your laughter from above. Fair winds and following seas, our beloved sailor. We have the watch.”
The ship's crew held held a ceremony in Taranto, Italy, on Sunday for those lost. The body of Cowbrough was recovered and will be repatriated in a ceremony on Wednesday at CFB Trenton. More remains have been recovered but have not yet been identified. The others are officially considered lost and presumed deceased. The investigation continues.
Kia did not take questions from media, and the family asked that their privacy be respected as they go through the grieving process.
The Pyke family statement quoted the poem Remember Me to honour the man they called their fallen son, brother and fiance:
Don’t remember me with sadness,
Don’t remember me with tears,
Remember all the laughter, We’ve shared throughout the years.
Now I am contented
That my life it was worthwhile,
Knowing that I passed along the way
I made somebody smile. When you are walking down the street,
And you’ve got me on your mind,
I’m walking in your footsteps
Only half a step behind. So please don’t be unhappy Just because I’m out of sight,
Remember that I’m with you
Each morning, noon and night.