Honourary Colonel John Smylie, Base Commander Colonel Mark Goulden, and outgoing Honourary Colonel John Williams (Photo: Tim Durkin/ Quinte News)
The National Air Force Museum of Canada played host to a Change of Command ceremony Thursday morning.
Grocery store owner John Smylie is taking over for former Quinte West Mayor John Williams as Honourary Colonel at 8 Wing.
Base Commander Colonel Mark Goulden says John Williams influence on him and his life would begin years before they even met. He says Williams is someone who has leadership in both good times, and times of crisis.
Goulden says when he and Williams began looking for the new Honourary Colonel, Goulden knew it would need to be someone impressive.
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John Smylie speaking at the National Air Force Museum (Photo: Tim Durkin/ Quinte News)
Outgoing Honourary Colonel Williams spoke about the role as he sees it.
Smylie has received numerous distinctions and awards in the Quinte community, including The Children’s Foundations Guardian Angel, and the Chamber of Commerce Business Person of the Yard.
Smylie was humbled by his new appointment. He added the importance of 8 Wing in the RCAF.
John Williams accepts a gift from 8-Wing (Photo: Tim Durkin/ Quinte News)
