A New Snowbird in Town

-LCol Maryse Carmichael, Snowbirds Commanding Officer, newly-minted HCol Mike Potter. Photo credit: Ken Lin

We have held back this information for quite sometime to allow the process to unfold and the official announcement to be made by the Air Force. Now that the 2010 season has come to a close in Moose Jaw, we have the privilege to share the good news. Michael Potter, founder Vintage Wings, has been give the distinguished appointment of Honourary Colonel of 431 Air Demonstration Squadron, Snowbirds replacing outgoing HCol Fred Sutherland.The appointment was made official on 22 October in Moose Jaw during the SB's 40th Anniversary Reunion and year-end gala.

Mike's appointment is quite a prestigious one, as he is only the second HCol since the program was introduced by the Air Force in 1993. As the Snowbirds are the most visible unit of the Canadian Forces, this is a tremendous honour and does well for Vintage Wings in building a lasting partnership with the highly acclaimed Snowbirds. And yes, they will be returning to the Gatineau circuit for another season during the fall air show and 2nd annual EAA Canadian Fly-In and Convention, 17 Sept, 2011.