Dear Editor, I write as a former Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) member. I was a young pilot in 1970, joining 429 Squadron in Mobile Command in St. Hubert, Que. I was then posted to 424 Squadron in Trenton, Ont. I was sent overseas on UN duty to serve with the UN 116 Air Transport Unit in 1974. I flew aircraft UN461 to Egypt that year. My friends flying that very aircraft were shot down, on duty, by the Syrians on Aug. 9, 1974. I can still feel the tragedy of that moment.
The date of Aug. 9 was chosen by Canada as “National Peacekeepers Day” because it’s the day those nine peacekeepers serving on “UNEF II” were shot down. It’s the highest number of Canadian peacekeepers killed in a single incident - ever.
The date is, sadly, little remembered. But it is the day my friends died – and one I can never forget.
As I grow older my memories become more pertinent to me. My eyes tear thinking of my past friends. I much hope that all of you who read this letter take a moment to think of those who have served in the Canadian military, who are serving now, and who will serve in the future. They do their work in the service of Canada, and the world. They deserve your thoughts, your respect and your prayers.
God bless “The Buffalo Nine”.
David Merritt
St. Albert
