Operation Inspiration – the Snowbirds cross-country tour to lift the spirits of Canadians during the COVID-19 pandemic was the brainchild of the Late Captain Jenn Casey.
That’s according to Padre Steven Filyk with the Rocky Mountain Rangers, who shared that bit of information during a tribute to the Snowbirds at Kamloops Airport held today.
“I was talking with the [Executive Officer] of the Snowbirds the other night and he told me that Operation Inspiration was the idea, the brainchild of Capt. Casey,” Filyk said.
“It was her idea to fly across the country to salute the care workers, to unite us during this very difficult time.”
He went on to say that Sunday’s plane crash in the Brocklehurst neighbourhood was a very tragic situation.
“It is a tragic situation, what has happened, what has unfolded. , but there is a glimmer of beauty in it,” Filyk added. “[Capt. Casey] fulfilled her mission both in her life and in her death, as you can witness this gathering here.”
Operation Inspiration was put on hold following the crash, while Kamloops Mayor Ken Christian telling the crowd that the Snowbirds team left the city yesterday, adding that the planes – which are grounded in Kamloops for now – will be leaving soon.
Christian went on to say that the city will create a memorial to the Snowbirds and Captain Casey, when the time is right.