A pause…and a step forward

By Lieutenant Steve Neta

Major Robert Pitcher, an Air Navigator with the 1 Canadian Air Division Headquarters’ detachment in Halifax and younger brother of the late Sergeant David Pitcher sits with his wife (left) Jackie and sister-in-law Ms Sylvie Dupuis (right) widow of Sgt Pitcher during the naming ceremony. Photos by: Master Corporal Kevin MacAulay

For the family of Sergeant David L. Pitcher, October 12 was a day to remember, and a day to look ahead.  The Minister of National Defence, Gordon O’Connor, officially opened the Sergeant David L. Pitcher complex during a solemn, yet uplifting naming and dedication ceremony at 22 Wing North Bay on October 12.

The new air defence complex is named after Sgt David Lindsay Pitcher, who was tragically killed with the rest of the crew aboard his E-3B Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) aircraft in a crash on September 22, 1995, in Elmendorf, Alaska.

“It’s an honour to be here today to dedicate this complex in memory of Sergeant David L. Pitcher, who gave his life serving Canada and the North American Aerospace Command mission,” said Minister O’Connor.  “I like to think he would have been proud to know that this complex, which bears his name, will stand for years in defence of the country he loved.”

Personnel from 22 Wing North Bay ceremoniously marched out of the underground complex one last time as a final chapter in Canadian Air Force history came to an end in late October. Photos by: Master Corporal Kevin MacAulay

In an emotional address, Major Robert Pitcher, Sgt Pitcher’s brother, reminded everyone of the risks of living in today’s world.  “We need protectors. Protectors like my brother David.  And with his name on this building, he will continue to protect us now and in the future, and we can all sleep a little more soundly at night.”

Sergeant David Lindsay Pitcher bears the unique, but regrettable distinction of being the only Canadian air defence technician to die in the line of duty.  It is only fitting that his name and memory remains attached to a new complex dedicated to the mission for which he perished.

For more information on the opening on the new above ground complex, go to: The end of an era at 22 Wing North Bay