Three New Flyers Join One of the World's Best Military Demonstration Teams

After nearly two weeks of intensive tryouts, three Canadian Forces pilots recently became the newest members of 431 Air Demonstration Squadron, the Canadian Forces' Snowbirds.

Captain Cory Blakely from Edmonton, Capt. Patrick Gobeil from Ville de la Baie, Quebec, and Capt. Miles Selby from Tsawwassen, B.C., will now begin a rigorous six-month training program, practicing different manoeuvres and formations, in order to prepare for the 2004 air-show season.

Under the guidance of the Commanding Officer, Major Stephen Will, and alongside their veteran team mates Maj. Chris Hope, Capt. Steve Chadwick, Capt. Paul Couillard, Capt. Andy Mackay and Capt. Chuck Mallett, the new Snowbirds pilots will solidify their skills in formation and aerobatic flying. By April 2004, as a team, the Snowbirds will have finalized the format of the 2004 performance.

"The Snowbirds team is pleased to be welcoming three very qualified Air Force pilots as well as many new technicians this year," said Maj. Will. "Congratulations to the new team members and welcome to the Snowbirds."

Before joining the Snowbirds, Capts. Blakely and Gobeil were flying instructors at 2 Canadian Forces Flying Training School (2 CFFTS) in Moose Jaw. Capt. Selby was a member of 441 Tactical Fighter Squadron in Cold Lake, Alta., where he flew the CF-18 Hornet.

The Snowbirds' intricate flying demonstrations have thrilled millions of spectators across North America. As ambassadors for Canada, the Snowbirds' mission is to demonstrate the skill, professionalism and teamwork of the Canadian Air Force and the Canadian Forces, and to act as a platform for recruiting.

Based at 15 Wing Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, the Snowbirds conduct rigorous training in preparation for the show season. The pilots and technicians of the Snowbirds are selected from across the Air Force and come from across Canada.

The Snowbirds fly the Canadian-built CT-114 Tutor.

FMI: www.snowbirds.forces.gc.ca/index_e.asp