Travel Journal

Summerside Salute to Military

September 18, 2006

By Lieutenant (Navy) Petra Smith

Summerside, Prince Edward Island - September 16 and 17

A Respectful Tribute

The Snowbirds were thankful to participate in the Summerside Salute to Military September 16 and 17, a respectful tribute to veterans and current serving members of the Canadian Forces.

Upon arrival in Summerside, the Snowbirds were honoured to fly-past Warrant Officer Frank Mellish's funeral service in the Missing Man Formation. Warrant Officer Mellish, a professional, dedicated and courageous soldier, paid the ultimate sacrifice for his country while serving in Afghanistan.

The Snowbirds had the honour and privilege of visiting 200 Wing of the Royal Canadian Air Force Association. It was truly inspiring to meet with the veterans, who shared stories about their military service.

Community Spirit

A highlight of the weekend was the opportunity to meet with many community members during the meet and greet and at the airport. The Community of Summerside truly made the team feel welcome.

Captain Steve Thompson, incoming Snowbird 10, and Sergeant Marlene Shillingford, incoming crew chief, were thrilled to visit the Athena Consolidated School. The students asked many intelligent questions about aviation and the Snowbirds.

While in Summerside, the Snowbirds also had the opportunity to meet with Air, Sea and Army cadets.

The Snowbirds would like to thank Mrs. Tammy Pickering and Captain Black for their tremendous support.

Colonel (Retired) Fern Villeneuve, a legend in the aviation community, presents Major Ian McLean, Snowbird 1, his Canada Post coin. Colonel Villeneuve is an inductee in the Aviation Hall of Fame. Photo Credit: Lieutenant (Navy) Petra Smith	Snowbird pilots pose for a picture with students from the Atlantic Police Academy September 16 following the show in Summerside. Photo Credit: Lieutenant (Navy) Petra Smith	Major Ian McLean, Snowbird 1, presents a certificate of congratulations to an air cadet from 53 Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron upon the successful completion of the Glider Pilot's Course. Photo Credit: Lieutenant (Navy) Petra Smith
Captain Tery Lebel, Snowbird 10, sets up the weather station prior to the air show September 16 in Summerside. Photo Credit: Lieutenant (Navy) Petra Smith	Master Corporal Terry Allain, aviation technician, is thrilled to be back home in Prince Edward Island. Photo Credit: Lieutenant (Navy) Petra Smith

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