Moose Jaw Mayor Fraser Tolmie says that he is very saddened of the news that a member of the CF Snowbirds died in a crash Saturday.
Shortly after takeoff in Kelowna, a plane being flown by Captain Richard MacDougall lost control and crashed into a nearby house. MacDougall ejected from the plane before the crash, resulting in serious injuries.
However, Captain Jenn Casey, the team’s public affairs officer, was killed in the crash.
Mayor Tolmie says, with the Snowbirds being based out of 15 Wing Moose Jaw, the city has a special relationship with the team.
“The Snowbirds have been part of our community for the last 50 years, they’re not just part of our community, they’re part of our family, they’re woven into the tapestry of this city,” said Tolmie. “We have a unique connection with them, obviously, out hearts go out to them and those in the community that are affected, and to those across the country that are affected by this tragic accident.”
Tolmie says that he is proud of the way the city embraces the team, and the endless support they have got since the accident.
“It’s affecting a lot of people, but we’re proud, and we’re proud of how people respond,” said Tolmie. “They care about the team, and they’re reaching out in so many ways.”
“It’s going to take some time for this to heal, but we’re here for the team.”
The Snowbirds were in the midst of their cross-country tour dubbed “Operation Inspiration” to try and boost spirits, in light of the pandemic. Tolmie says that when the team flew over Moose Jaw last week, like many other people, it brightened his spirits.
“It’s a comforting sound, and I know that’s what they were doing for the rest of Canada,” said Tolmie. “Flying across the nation to let them know that, we’re going through something that’s very temporary, and that there’s better days ahead of us. They were inspiring people, and that’s what they’ve always done.”
Tolmie adds that, despite the crash, this is not the time to be disheartened, but more a time to rally and show the Snowbirds how much they mean to this country.
