“Smokey’s” family expresses gratitude to Canadians
Wednesday, August 10, 2005

Pallbearers from The Seaforth Highlanders of Canada stand at attention by the remains of Sergeant Ernest Alvia “Smokey” Smith before they are carried aboard the aircraft.

VANCOUVER, British Columbia — On August 8, the remains of Sergeant (Retired) Ernest Alvia "Smokey" Smith were taken aboard a Canadian Air Force Airbus at Vancouver International Airport for a flight to Ottawa.

Smokey's regiment, The Seaforth Highlanders of Canada, provided a military escort to Ottawa where he will lie in the House of Commons on Parliament Hill.

The family of Sergeant Smith stood by as the casket was loaded onto the Airbus with full military honours.

Sergeant Ernest “Smokey” Smith, V.C, C.M., O.B.C.,CD

Padre Jim Short, who is acting as the liaison officer between the Smith family and the military, will also preside at both the memorial service and the committal of ashes ceremony at sea.

Padre Short read the following statement on behalf of Smokey's family:

"Good morning. My name is Padre Jim Short, Senior Chaplain for the 39 Canadian Brigade Group. I have the honour of supporting the family of Sergeant Smokey Smith through this difficult period of their lives.

Smokey's family would like to sincerely thank Canadians and their friends all around the world for sending condolences during our shared time of mourning for Smokey. The family is fully aware of all the letters, emails, condolence books, and other expressions of sorrow, and I would like you to know these all mean a great deal to them.

Equally, they have been appreciative of the continued respect shown for their privacy for, as each of you will understand, they need the time and space to grieve their father and grandfather.

Thank you all for coming to the airport to share with Canadians the departure of Smokey's remains for Ottawa. He is accompanied today by his immediate family and by members of his regiment, The Seaforth Highlanders of Canada.

Thank you very much."

The plane taxied to the runway and took off, bound for Ottawa with Smokey and family on board. Smokey's remains are scheduled to return to Vancouver on Wednesday, August 10.

Article by Sergeant Mike Van Den Broek
Photos by Sergeant Mike Van Den Broek and courtesy of Veterans Affairs Canada