Captain Jennifer Casey is being laid to rest in her
hometown of Halifax, NB as I write this. My
thoughts and prayers are with her family, friends as well as her Snowbird family.
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Fulton Field Airport |
The City of Kamloops officially adopted the 419 Squadron of
the RCAF in 1943 due to John “Moose” Fulton, a resident of Kamloops. This long lasting connection eventually
brought the CF-5 Freedom Fighter to become a monument at Fulton Field, the
Kamloops Airport in 1995.
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Legion tribute |
The Legion held a ceremony at the base of the CF-5 to honor
Captain Jenn Casey and Captain Richard McDougall, both of whom were in the
Snowbird accident May 17, 2020. Captain
Richard McDougall remains in hospital recovering from non life-threatening injuries.
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Fence at Kamloops Airport |
The love and support given by the people of Kamloops has
been overwhelming. The local First
Nations held a Drumming Circle for Capt. Casey in this location and one for
Capt. McDougall at the hospital. Although the crowds were small at ceremonies
held due to the Covid 19 pandemic we are now dealing with, our hearts were
there and the Snowbirds have shared their appreciation.
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So much support shown |
The people of Kamloops have hung flags all over their
neighborhoods in recognition of the loss we felt last week, and will feel for a
very long time. This fence at the airport shows flags, personal notes and
dedications sharing their support that is felt by all.
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Snowbirds at rest |
The fleet of Snowbirds sit at the Fulton Field Airport
awaiting the time they can be taken home.
Best wishes to Captain Richard McDougall so that he will return home
soon, as well.
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Forever remembered |
The CF-5 was relocated to this location in 2018 and is the
sight we see as we enter and exit the Kamloops airport. Never again will we pass this that we will
not think of Captain Jenn Casey. The road presently called Airport Way is being
petitioned to be renamed after Captain Casey.
Her legacy will continue and carry the special thoughts
that brought her idea, “Operation Inspiration” for all. A true indication of the special woman that
she was.
May Captain Jenn Casey forever Rest In Peace and continue to fly
high above.
More Snowbirds and Operation Inspiration can be seen here.