By Master Corporal Cless Howse, 16 Wing
Just a short time ago Sergeant Gaétan Roy, an Avionics Systems Technician presently serving with the Canadian Forces School of Aerospace Technology and Engineering at 16 Wing Borden, was on tour in Afghanistan as part of Roto 11. As the latest member of 16 Wing to return home from Afghanistan, Sgt Roy was chosen to represent Canada's Air Force at a special presentation in Windsor, Ont., on September 23, for the home opening game of the Windsor Spitfires of the Ontario Hockey League. Sgt Roy was given the honour of presenting the OHL's Western Conference Championship ‘Wayne Gretzky’ trophy to Craig Duininck, one of the players from the two-time MasterCard Memorial Cup and Rodgers OHL champions.
Also part of the Air Force presence at centre ice was a Flag Party formed by Sgt Jason Houle, Sgt Barry Sooley, Warrant Officer Kevin Colcy and Captain Lennard Johnston, all members of 16 Wing. With CFB Borden being the closest base, the Windsor Spitfires often call upon 16 Wing for special events like this. All the members who were present found it to be an honour to be included in the opening ceremonies. Sgt Roy found the experience to be very positive. During the second period intermission he went throughout the arena and handed out replica paper fighter jets. While doing so he was greeted with many handshakes and positive messages from the Windsor crowd. “They really seemed to appreciate my service” said Sgt Roy. "Some even shared their stories."
A late third period goal by the Spitfires gave them a 5-4 victory in the game, making it another successful mission for both 16 Wing personnel and the Spitfires.
