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In Memory of Fallen Snowbirds
The Snowbirds’ pilots are highly trained professionals who have
many years of flying experience with the Air Force. They are well-known
for their
skill, professionalism and teamwork.
However, there is risk associated with formation flying. Flying by its
very nature has an inherent element of risk. Six Snowbird pilots have lost
their lives in the performance of their duty. We remember them.
Every Snowbird performance is a tribute to these pilots and to all the
men and women of the Canadian Forces Snowbirds who have dedicated themselves
to excellence.
 Captain Miles Selby
#8, Opposing Solo
Killed during a training mission in December
2004, in Mossbank, Saskatchewan, at the age of 31. |
 Captain Michael VandenBos
#2, Inner Right Wing
Killed during a training mission in December 1998,
just south of Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, at the age of 29. |
 Captain Shane Antaya
#2, Inner Right Wing
Killed during an airshow in 1989, at the CNE in Toronto,
Ontario, at the age of 26. |
 Captain Wes Mackay
#8, Lead Solo
Killed in a motor accident in 1988, after a performance in
Latrobe, Pennsylvania, at the age 28. |
 Captain Gordon de Jong
#8, Lead Solo
Killed during an airshow in 1978, in Grande Prairie, Alberta,
at the age of 32. |
 Captain Lloyd Waterer
#8, Lead Solo
Killed during an airshow in 1972, in Trenton, Ontario, at
the age of 24. |
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Hush - The silence lingers still
White clouds brush the distant hill
The Snowbirds flown on silent wings
Far from earth bound, tugging strings.
Hush - There lies but one man sleeping
A date with his Maker he is keeping
Though once he raced across the sky, in flight
Radiant, as a star at night.
Hush - He was an airman bold
Who saw the sunset turning gold
Who soared with grace across this land
A brave man, in a brave man's band.
No more in danger shall he tread
No more the sunsets turning red
Though high above our prairie fleece
We know his soul will find its peace.
Hush - The Snowbird's taken flight
Into the great beyond of night
To join his comrades, in the wing
Which flies just for our Heavenly King.
- Peter Walt |
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