As Canadians (hopefully) take time to mark Remembrance Day on Tuesday, pilots and support crew from the Royal Canadian Air Force will be taking part in combat operations against ISIS in Iraq.
Approximately 600 Air Force personnel are based in Kuwait and began operations in Iraq on Oct. 30.
The Canadian task force includes six CF-18 Hornet fighters from 4 Wing based in Cold Lake, Alta.; a CC-150T Polaris air-to-air refueling plane from 8 Wing based in Trenton, Ont.; and two CP-140 Aurora long-range reconnaissance craft from 14 Wing based in Greenwood, N.S. Canadian air crews will be bombing ISIS targets and conducting aerial reconnaissance, both dangerous missions as Islamic State troops are rapidly increasing their antiaircraft capabilities with captured Iraqi equipment.
While it is important to honour Canada's veterans and fallen soldiers, sailors and Air Force personnel -especially Cpl. Nathan Cirillo and Warrant Officer Patrice Vincent killed in two separate attacks last month - it is also important to thank those who continue to willingly put themselves in harm's way to serve their country.
For all those serving in Iraq, today's song is for you. Thank you and stay safe out there.
The song is the Royal Canadian Air Force March, performed by the Central Band of the Canadian Forces (http://youtu.be/ICMl0DNev4M).
The march, also used by the Royal Air Force in the U.K., is a swift and upbeat march for those who face danger at near the speed of sound.
