News Release

Snowbirds Honoured by National Introduction in House of Commons

June 20, 2006

By Lieutenant (Navy) Petra Smith

As ambassadors for the Canadian Forces and for Canada, the Snowbirds were invited to attend Question Period in the House of Commons and to meet The Right Honourable Prime Minister Stephen Harper.

Mr. Dave Batters, Member of Parliament for Palliser, the team's hometown riding, spoke eloquently and patriotically about the Snowbirds' mission and tradition of excellence before the Speaker of the House introduced Canada's famed aerobatic team.

"As all Canadians know, the Snowbirds are a national icon second to none. For 35 years they have symbolized excellence in our armed forces," said Mr. Batters. "As ambassadors for Canada around the world, their skill and precision flying exemplifies the best in Canadian aviation."

"It is a tremendous honour for the team to be introduced in the House of Commons," said Major Ian McLean, Snowbird 1 and Commanding Officer. "As Snowbirds, we have the privilege of representing the Canadian Forces, meeting Canadians from coast to coast, and flying Canada's colours across North America."

"We were absolutely blown away by the presence of the Snowbirds in the House of Commons," said Mrs. Joy Smith, Member of Parliament for Kildonan - St. Paul, who echoed the sentiments of the many Members of Parliament to whom the Snowbirds were introduced throughout the day.

After receiving two spirited standing ovations by the Members of the House, the Snowbirds had the honour and privilege of meeting the Right Honourable Prime Minister Stephen Harper, who shook hands with each team member and affirmed the importance of the team as ambassadors for the Canadian Forces.

"I am very proud of the Snowbirds and value their important role as ambassadors for the men and women in Canada's military who are making a difference around the world," said the Commander of Air Command and Chief of the Air Staff Lieutenant-General Steve Lucas.

"The Snowbirds demonstrate the professionalism, dedication and teamwork inherent in all members of the Canadian Forces."

While in Ottawa, Snowbird team members visited Blossom Park School, Our Lady of Wisdom School, St. Isidore Catholic School, the Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario and participated in the Ottawa International Air Show June 17 and 18.

As ambassadors for the Canadian Forces and Canada, the Snowbirds travel across North America, performing in 64 air shows in 41 locations in 2006.

During their recent visit to Ottawa, members of the Snowbirds, including their Commanding Officer, Major Ian McLean, met with the Right Honourable Prime Minister Stephen Harper and presented him with a personalized lithograph of the team. The team's visit to Ottawa also included a visit CHEO and three schools, a performance at the Ottawa Air Show, an introduction in the House of Commons by Member of Parliament Dave Batters, as well as recognition by the Speaker of the House for their great work in representing Canada and the Canadian Forces. The Snowbirds left Ottawa Tuesday, en route to Oshawa, Ontario, where they will continue to delight Canadians of all ages with their breath-taking show. Photo Credit: Jason Ransom, Prime Minister's Office

Photo Credit: Jason Ransom, Prime Minister's Office

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