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Veterans Affairs Canada announces contribution to the Plane of Reconciliation project
February 10, 2020
On February 10th, 2020, the Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence, announced a contribution of $13,500 through the Commemorative Partnership Program to the Comox Vallery Airport Commission in support of their Plane of Reconciliation project.
The Plane of Reconciliation Project honours the contributions and the sacrifices of Indigenous People and all Canadian Veterans. The replica of a First World War Nieuport Biplane has been adorned with Hereditary, Chief “walas `Namugwis” David Mungo Knox special Kwakiutl Thunderbird insignia inspired by the Comox Canadian Forces Base unit badge.
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The Comox Valley Airport has recently installed above its departures lounge a replica of a First World War Nieuport Biplane donated by the late Captain David Freeman, a long time pilot and aviation enthusiast. Freeman, along with a group from across Canada known as Vimy Flight, flew replica Nieuport Biplanes over Vimy Ridge on 9 April 2017.
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“Indigenous Peoples have a long and proud tradition of military service to our country. I’m pleased to announce our support for such a meaningful commemorative project that serves as a symbol of reconciliation and as a testament to the history of Indigenous Peoples and the unique sacrifices they have made in service to Canada.”
The Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence.
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“It's just honour to walk in my ancestors' footsteps to portray what – who we are and where we come from. We're taught since kids who we are and where we come from, our roots and lineages, everything in life that is – it's – it's all. And for all the veterans that sacrificed their lives, and to carry on to make Canada who it is, I take my hat off. I'm so honoured for all veterans and the native veterans.”
Hereditary Chief “walas `Namugwis” David Mungo Knox
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“I appreciate them allowing us to do the work here and be present here. This project that you see above us just has incredible meaning, and I just want to make sure everyone recognizes the important work of David Freeman, who really spearheaded it. And I just feel that's important.”
MP. Rachel Blaney, North Island—Powell River
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“Since the completion of this project, all the feedbacks have been positive. Mr. Freeman has left us with more than just a beautiful aircraft, but an object that recognizes the sacrifices of Canadians, his interest in Comox First Nations art, and his passion for flying. So the project, it ties our community together, and now visitors to the airport can celebrate this gift in a really tangible way.”
Alex Robertson, CEO, Comox Valley Airport
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Hereditary, Chief “walas `Namugwis” David Mungo Knox performed the Peace Dance to close off the event.
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From left to right: 19 Wing Commander, Colonel Dany Poitras, Chief “walas `Namugwis” David Mungo Knox, Minister MacAulay, MP Rachel Blaney and Alex Robertson, CEO of the Comox Valley Airport.
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From left to right: Deputy Minister General Natynczyk, Bill Webb, Service Officer with the Courtenay Legion branch 17, Minister MacAulay and Bruce Ferguson, Canadian Merchant Navy Veterans Association.
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