Aeromedical Evacuation Flight receives CF Unit Commendation
News Article / October 2, 2012
The Aeromedical Evacuation Flight (AE Flt) out of 8 Wing Trenton, Ont., received the Canadian Forces Unit Commendation (CFUC) on September 13 for its outstanding dedication and professionalism. The flight is mandated to provide timely aeromedical support to soldiers involved in national and international operations.
The Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) commander, Lieutenant-General André Deschamps, presented the award, saying, “Since its formation in 2008, the aeromedical evacuation team in Trenton has put forth extraordinary efforts to ensure that injured Canadian Forces personnel are swiftly returned to Canada with great professionalism, dedication and compassion.
“The aeromedical evacuation team in Trenton has displayed outstanding dedication and adaptability that has contributed to ensure successful operations.”
In addition, their vital role in Operation Unify and Operation Hestia helped alleviate the suffering of many from the devastating effects of natural disasters.
The CFUC was created in 1980 to recognize distinguished service by “any formation, unit or sub-unit of the CF … that has performed a deed or activity considered beyond the demand of normal duty.”
“The CF Unit Commendation is a very prestigious award that brings pride and an extraordinary feeling of accomplishment to all of us at the Aeromedical Evacuation Flight,” said Major Patrick Chrétien, AE Flt commander.
“All aeromedical crewmembers feel no less than extremely honoured and privileged to perform their duties at the highest level,” he added.
On every air evacuation mission they undertake, flight members witness the real commitment and bravery of CF personnel in times of conflict or disaster. Their courageous dedication inspires and motivates all AE Flt members to provide quality health care in the air, at home or abroad, in peace or in conflict.
“I am very honoured to express my heartfelt gratitude to all CF AE Flt personnel and former members for their contribution to the AE Flight’s success,” said Maj Chrétien. “In particular, I want to thank the former CF AE Flight commanders’ contribution, Lieutenant-Colonel (ret’d) Yves Tremblay and Maj Rhonda Crew, whose leadership left a tremendous positive impact on the flight’s performance.”
Maj Chrétien attributes the team’s success to the remarkable support and teamwork at 8 Wing. He also extends his appreciation to 24 CF Health Services Centre at the wing for its unwavering administrative and clinical support services since the flight was created in October 2008.
The AE Flt is comprised of 10 teams of aeromedical nursing officers and medical technicians, as well as command and support positions. These aeromedical evacuation crew members (AECM) perform AEs, which is a flight devoted to transfer a patient from one location to another while providing medical care wherever CF personnel are located.