May 21, 2007
15 WING, MOOSE JAW - The Canadian Forces Snowbirds will return home to 15 Wing, Moose Jaw, by CC-130 Hercules aircraft, during the evening of Monday, May 21, following the tragic aircraft accident that claimed the life of their teammate and friend, Captain Shawn McCaughey.
“It is important for our team to return home to our family, friends and fellow teammates to mourn together during this difficult time,” said Major Robert Mitchell, Commanding Officer, Canadian Forces Snowbirds. “Our thoughts and prayers are with Shawn’s family – they are our priority at this time.”
A memorial service for Captain Shawn McCaughey will take place Friday, May 25 at 15 Wing Moose Jaw will full military honours.
“The memorial service will pay tribute and honour Shawn’s life,” said Major Mitchell. “Shawn was a passionate and talented pilot, a dedicated and devoted member of the Canadian Forces and a dear friend.”
The Canadian Forces Flight Safety Investigative Team will continue their work in Montana to determine the cause of the accident. The highly-qualified team of experts will investigate all aspects of the flight to prevent reoccurrence.
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Note to editors/news directors: To allow the Snowbirds time to grieve with their families, the team’s return home will not be open to the public or media.
For more information, please visit the team’s website at www.snowbirds.forces.gc.ca or contact Lieutenant (Navy) Petra Smith, public affairs officer, Canadian Forces Snowbirds, at (306) 684-3005 or Second-Lieutenant Sebastian Monger at 15 Wing, Moose Jaw, (306) 631-0509.
