CF Snowbirds flyby for National Indigenous Peoples Day

Yesterday morning at 11:45, the Canadian Forces Snowbirds conducted a flyby over the National Aboriginal Veterans Monument at Confederation Park in Ottawa, in honour of National Indigenous Peoples Day.

The nine-plane team, flew in formation over the event at an altitude of 500 feet above the highest point of their route, before resuming a higher-flying altitude for the rest of their flight.

The CF Snowbirds felt honoured to be a part of this prestigious event to commemorate Indigenous Veterans and Indigenous members of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) and their extensive contributions to Canada.

“Today, we shine a light on the culture, history and traditions of Indigenous Peoples. As the Defence Team Champion for Indigenous Peoples, I would like to commemorate their significant contributions to the defence of our great nation,” said Lieutenant-General Paul Wynnyk, Commander Canadian Army, in a statement released June 21.

According to the statement, Indigenous Peoples make up approximately 2.7% (2018) of the Canadian Armed Forces and 3.1% (2017) of the civilian Defence Team populations. Lt.-Gen Wynnyk added they are working to increase these numbers over the coming years.

“As Defence Team Champion for Indigenous Peoples, I encourage all Defence Team members to take part in the National Indigenous Peoples Day celebrations happening in their communities,” said Wynnyk. “Let us work together to ensure the Defence Team’s commitment to better reflect the rich diversity of Canada’s population within both the Canadian Armed Forces and the Department of National Defence.”

Flybys are conducted to support special events and are very carefully planned and strictly controlled to ensure the safety of spectators and all others involved.