Mankind has had a long-time fascination with music and flight as it has the power to suspend everyday thought and worry in a seemingly magical connection. Listening to the melodic rhythm of music and watching the miracle of flight can be truly inspiring.
The Canadian Forces Snowbirds had the exceptional opportunity of
bringing music and flight together when they flew one of Canada's
greatest ambassadors and artists November 14.
"It was a pleasure and an honour for the team to fly with Ms. Loreena
McKennitt, an internationally-loved singer and composer, a generous
and dedicated humanitarian, and a genuine and influential advocate of
the Canadian Forces as the Honorary Colonel of 435 Squadron in
Winnipeg, Man.," said Major Robert Mitchell, Commanding Officer,
Canadian Forces Snowbirds. "We are so grateful for the opportunity to
fly with such a great Canadian."
During the 2-day visit, Honorary Colonel McKennitt toured the home of
the Canadian Forces Snowbirds and the NATO Flying Training in Canada
Program as well as prepared for an exciting 9-plane, formation
training flight over the beautiful Prairie landscape.
"The Snowbirds demonstrate a universal lesson - that extraordinary
things can happen when a group of people come together as one," said
Honorary Colonel Loreena McKennitt, following the flight. "I have the
deepest admiration for a team, who works at such an elite level - a
point of excellence."
Honorary Colonel McKennitt was offered a bird's-eye-view from the
cockpit of Snowbird 5, Captain Denis Beaumont, who flies in the middle
of the formation. With a glorious Prairie sun and fresh snow, the
environment was exquisite.
"It was truly a wonderful opportunity to fly with Honorary Colonel
McKennitt," said Captain Denis Beaumont, Snowbird 5. "She was an
excellent flyer with a remarkably meticulous approach to the flight."
The 1-hour training flight included wing-tip manoeuvring over the
Mossbank, Sask., as the team earnestly begins its Training Season in
preparation for the 2008 Season.
"The flight was incredibly enjoyable; the intensity of focus is
fascinating," said Honorary Colonel McKennitt. "When one is flying in
close formation, dealing with the physicality of G - Force and taking
into account the environmental variables of the day, it is
extraordinary."
The Snowbirds initially connected with Honorary Colonel McKennitt
following the tragic loss of Captain Shawn McCaughey May 18, 2007.
During her concert in Victoria, B.C. on May 19, Honorary Colonel
McKennitt dedicated Penelope's Song to Shawn's memory.
Since then, the team performed the Tribute Pass in their 2007 Show to
the music of Penelope's Song, which appropriately captures the sentiment of waiting for your loved ones to return. |
