News Release

CANADIAN FORCES SNOWBIRDS PREPARE FOR AN EXCITING 2006 SEASON

March 30, 2006

15 WING, MOOSE JAW - The Canadian Forces Snowbirds will put the polishing touches on their 2006 show in Comox, British Columbia, from April 3 to 20 in preparation for the upcoming air show season.

"We are always grateful for the warm welcome we receive from the Comox Valley Community," said Major Ian McLean, Commanding Officer, Canadian Forces Snowbirds.  "The Comox Valley provides us an important training venue to practice flying our show over mountains, water and diverse landscape."

During their time in Comox, the Snowbirds are scheduled to practice twice daily, weather permitting.  From April 4 to 8, the team is scheduled to fly both morning and afternoon practices over the 19 Wing, Comox.  From April 10 to 14 and April 17 to 20, the team is scheduled to fly morning practices over 19 Wing and afternoon practices over the Strait of Georgia. 

As a show of appreciation for the tremendous hospitality, the Snowbirds will perform a demonstration flight Saturday, April 15 at 11 a.m. over the Comox Waterfront, weather permitting.  The team will also be available to sign autographs after the demonstration at the Air Force Museum, 19 Wing, Comox, at 1:30 p.m.

The Canadian Forces Snowbirds are proud ambassadors of the men and women in Canada's military, who are making a difference around the world.  In 2006, the Snowbirds will have the privilege of participating in 64 air shows in 41 communities across North America from coast to coast.    

The Snowbirds' mission is to represent the skill, professionalism and teamwork of the Canadian Forces and to inspire others to consider an exciting career in Canada's military.

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Note to editors/news directors:  For more information, please contact Lieutenant (Navy) Petra Smith, public affairs officer, Canadian Forces Snowbirds, at (306) 684-3005 or Captain Cheryl Robinson, public affairs officer, 19 Wing, Comox, at (250) 339-8201.  Please visit the team's website at www.snowbirds.forces.gc.ca for imagery or background information.

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