SENATORS’ STATEMENTS — Royal Canadian Air Force

Honourable senators, I rise today to mark Air Force Day on Parliament Hill and to invite you all to join me in celebrating Royal Canadian Air Force members, past and present, some of whom are here with us today, for their service to Canada.

It is a banner year for the RCAF: April 1, 2024, marked 100 years of service for the Royal Canadian Air Force. Since its inception in 1924, the RCAF has served Canadians faithfully in times of peace and war. The centennial milestone is an opportunity for us to celebrate and honour the RCAF’s distinct role throughout history because a nation’s story is built upon its past, on the labours of those who have been willing to serve.

While it’s easy to look back at the accomplishments of the past, there is much to recognize and celebrate in the present. Whether it is through undertaking air combat missions in Kosovo, Libya or Kuwait, the RCAF continues to contribute to global security and peace. The RCAF has also been there in times of international disasters, such as the earthquake in Haiti, where they evacuated civilians, and during COVID, when they repatriated Canadians from all over the globe. Domestically, the RCAF provided support and performed evacuations during last year’s disastrous wildfire season.

I do not need to tell you that if you are lost or in trouble, seeing the yellow and red paint scheme of an RCAF search and rescue aircraft is a huge relief. You know you are going to be okay.

That is why days like this, when parliamentarians can interact with RCAF personnel and share stories, are so important. As politicians, it’s easy for us to talk about taxpayers and taxpayers’ money when we invest in defence and security, but remember that it is a Canadian we’re talking about — one who has agreed to put their life on the line in that cockpit, driving that tank or sailing that frigate. Think about that when you stand up to debate issues regarding the Canadian Armed Forces.

In a world where the security landscape changes rapidly, and conflicts old and new are flaring up, we need to support the people in uniform now more than ever. Colleagues, the RCAF members are entrusted with protecting Canada and everything we love. They deserve the resources required to perform that charge.

To the RCAF members, we appreciate the hardships you face, and I know, because of who you are, you can be counted upon when called. What you bring to the fight is your passion and excellence, which are unmatched by anyone else in the world.

Thank you and happy birthday to the Royal Canadian Air Force!