Frank Wayne Adams, D.C.L., C.M., E.C.N.S., C.C., became honorary colonel of 423 Maritime Helicopter Squadron, based at 12 Wing Shearwater, N.S., yesterday. His term will last for three years.
“A distinguished citizen of Nova Scotia, Mr. Adams has been dedicated to the community as a volunteer, businessman, and politician,” said Minister of National Defence, Peter MacKay. “His leadership has benefited many organizations throughout Nova Scotia, and as Minister of National Defence and as a proud Nova Scotian, I am pleased to announce Mr. Adam's appointment as honorary colonel of 423 Maritime Helicopter Squadron.”
HCol Adams served as Nova Scotia's first Black member of the Legislative Assembly and cabinet minister, where he made important contributions to economic, environment and community development; in 2004 he was invested as a Member of the Order of Canada.
“HCol Adams is an excellent choice to be the honorary colonel for this squadron,” said Lieutenant-General Andre Deschamps, commander of the Royal Canadian Air Force. “He will forge a strong link between the squadron and a broader segment of the Nova Scotian community. I am certain that HCol Adams will be an exceptional mentor and role model for the members of 423 Squadron.”
The squadron performs numerous roles supporting the Royal Canadian Navy in surveillance, peacekeeping and humanitarian missions. It regularly supports law enforcement agencies in combating drug smuggling and illegal immigration, and also by monitoring for illegal fishing and ships discharging pollutants. It has also assisted search and rescue operations in the region.
“I am deeply honoured to have been nominated, and subsequently selected to be honorary colonel for 423 Squadron,” said HCol Adams. “I'm sure there are many other qualified individuals who could have been appointed, so I am grateful the Honourable Peter MacKay saw fit to select me to be a part of the distinguished military aviation heritage of Canada. I look forward to being an effective interface between the squadron and the community, providing advice in matters relevant to my background, knowledge, and experience.”
With approximately 60 current appointments, the Air Force Honorary Colonels' program provides a powerful and effective means to foster esprit de corps, promote and sustain community support and connect Canadians with their Air Force in all parts of the country.
