A fitting tribute to local World War II veteran Jim McRae at the Yarmouth Airport.
His family, along with dignitaries and legion and military members gathered to pay their respects to the pilot, who passed away at age 106.
Plans had been in the works to reunite McRae with his Canso aircraft that he flew in the war.
The Fairview Aircraft Restoration Society got the Royal Canadian Air Force plane, 11094 to the Yarmouth Airport for the service.
Official David Sollows noted McRae passed away ‘his way’.
“His tour of duty in this world ended at exactly 11 a.m. on the ninth day of the fourth month. 11094, matching the Canso aircraft. His daughter Susan said he was a meticulous planner,” said Sollows.
Members of Jim McRae’s family at his Royal Canadian Legion memorial service at the Yarmouth Airport on June 21, 2024 (Acadia News)
Those who spoke remembered McRae as a quiet, humble hero.
He survived hours in the Atlantic Ocean after his plane was shot down during the war.
Later, he became a flight school instructor, a provincial champion curler.
Don McCumber, president of the Nova Scotia/Nunavut command of the legion said McRae will never be forgotten.
“Jim, I know you’re looking down on us with that little smile on your face. As you complete your journey to your final resting place, your legend will live on in our hearts. Rest in peace, you have completed your mission,” said McCumber.
His remains will be flown back to Alberta, where he will be laid to rest.
The day was also viewed as a celebration of freedom, and marking 100 years of the Royal Canadian Air Force.
Free tours of the Canso plane are being offered to the public Friday and Saturday.
Royal Canadian Legion members lay a poppy at Jim McRae’s memorial service at the Yarmouth Airport. The WWII pilot died April 9 at age 106. pic.twitter.com/A0RYNOXNEA
— Y95 (@CJLSRadio) June 21, 2024
