Homage to a great airman
News Article / July 3, 2013
By Éric Gagnnon and Captain Sébastien Monger
Lieutenant-General Yvan Blondin, commander Royal Canadian Air Force, presented a Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) certificate of recognition recently to retired Regimental Sergeant-Major Gaston Lamirande.
Mr. Lamirande grew up in the town of Alma, Que., in the Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean region and joined the RCAF in 1942 during the Second World War, after training in Quebec, mostly in Bagotville, where he piloted several types of aircraft. He subsequently deployed to Europe and flew numerous missions over Germany and Holland.
“The courage and professionalism shown by Mr Lamirande have served as an example over the years to many members of the Royal Canadian Air Force, especially those from Bagotville,” said LGen Blondin.
The awarding of this certificate of recognition coincides with the 60th anniversary of Mr. Lamirande’s arrival in Bagotville. At that time, he flew Harvards and Hurricanes, two planes he was able to see at the Bagotville International Air Show, which is also celebrating its 60th anniversary. And the simple ceremony was also held in front of a Hurricane at 3 Wing Bagotville.
Now 90 years of age, the former pilot still lives in Lac-Saint-Jean and has always maintained a strong attachment to members of 3 Wing Bagotville.