Marking heritage and celebrating history may be a natural for the Nova Scotia Legislature.
Legislature members recently hosted a contingent of 14 Wing Greenwood personnel, invited to be recognized as the Royal Canadian Air Force prepared for its 100th anniversary April 1. The Nova Scotia Legislature is the oldest in Canada, having first sat in 1758. Province House, where the Legislature meets, is a National Historic Site and Canada’s oldest legislative building, having opened February 11, 1819.
Kings West MLA Chris Palmer, whose riding is home to 14 Wing Greenwood, March 19 welcomed Wing Commander Colonel Jeff Davis, 413 (Transport and Rescue) Squadron Chief Warrant Officer Stephen Bates, 413 Squadron Lieutenant Sophia King and 14 Mission Support Squadron Corporal Sarah Ruff; seated in the East Gallery above the Legislature floor.
“Any of you who represent a military community in your constituency – we know the wonderful contribution the military makes in our community, and how much they give to the social fabric of our area,” Palmer said, addressing fellow MLAs and Legislature staff.
“They are the best of us, and, please, I’d like to ask all members of the House to give my guests a warm welcome today.”
Members did indeed rise and applaud the 14 Wing members, and the RCAF they represent. Palmer then read more prepared comments into the Hansard, the Legislature’s daily transcript, for posterity.
“April 1, 2024 marks 100 years of service for the Royal Canadian Air Force as a distinct military element. This centennial milestone places the RCAF in a unique position to honour its distinct heritage, recognize its tremendous people and generate excitement for its bright future.
“I am honoured to represent a constituency with an RCAF base, 14 Wing. The RCAF’s legacy is woven into the fabric of Nova Scotia, and 14 Wing serves as a testament to that enduring impact.”
Palmer said the personnel of 14 Wing exemplify the values of courage, integrity and excellence; and the wing will host a number of celebratory events this year, including Air Show Atlantic.
“I ask all members of the House to join me in celebrating 100 years of the RCAF, and thank all of those who serve. May we continue to uphold the legacy of pride and dedication for years to come.”
Afterwards, Davis said the invitation to Halifax was a nice gesture.
“We took two junior ranks members with us who were interested and available to attend, and we had a bit of a tour. It was a good day, to be recognized by the Legislature.”
