Remarks by
The Honourable Anita Neville, P.C., O.M.
Lieutenant Governor of Manitoba
2 CANADIAN AIR DIVISION CHANGE OF APPOINTMENT CEREMONY
17 Wing, Winnipeg
April 11, 2024
(please check delivery)
Members of 17 Wing Winnipeg and 2 Canadian Air Division, thank you for the opportunity to join you today in celebrating service to Canada.
As Lieutenant Governor of Manitoba, I begin by acknowledging that we have gathered here in the heart of Treaty One land and the homeland of the Red River Metis.
Here, in the ancestral and present-day home of the Anishinaabe, Cree, Dakota, Dene, Inuit and Metis peoples, our duty to Canada and its laws and values includes a commitment to reconciliation, healing and harmony.
In my time in office, I have had the opportunity and privilege to get to know more of the men and women who serve our country in uniform.
Several members of the Canadian Forces, including members of the Royal Canadian Air Force, serve as aides de camp to the Office of the Lieutenant Governor. I have enjoyed learning more about the dedication and expertise that these individuals bring to their job of making our country safe and secure.
So I am pleased today to be able to join you for a milestone day in the service of two individuals whose careers have been spent in serving the mission of the RCAF.
I join you in thanking Chief Warrant Officer Marlene Shillingford for her service at 17 Wing and to 2 Canadian Air Division. Marlene, simply put, you are an inspiration. You are an inspiration to women in aviation and exemplify professionalism and leadership to the highest standard. The high-profile opportunities that you have been afforded throughout your career, are indicative of the reputation you worked hard to earn. You are a shining example of patriotism and service. Thank you.
I am also pleased to welcome Chief Warrant Officer Andrew Rusconi to his new position. Andrew, I understand this is not a first introduction to Manitoba, so I hope it won’t be too difficult to transfer your allegiance from the Maple Leafs to the Jets.
To all who wear the uniform of the Royal Canadian Air Force and dedicate their time, talent and energy to Canada’s air defence, I thank you. Winnipeg benefits from being home to 17 Wing and all Canadians, from coast to coast to coast, benefit from the professionalism of the men and women of the RCAF.
Thank you. Merci. Meegwich. Shalom
