The following release was sent by the Canadian Armed Forces.
Members of 424 Transport and Rescue Squadron participated in a memorial group jump in Trenton in honour of Sergeant (Sgt) Janick Gilbert this morning. A team of fifteen search and rescue (SAR) technicians parachuted into the drop zone at 8 Wing/Canadian Forces Base Trenton to commemorate the 12th anniversary of Sgt Gilbert’s passing.
On October 27, 2011, Sgt Gilbert, a search and rescue (SAR) technician, was tasked for a rescue near Igloolik Bay (Hall Bay), Northwest Territories. During the rescue mission, a team of three SAR technicians, including Sgt Gilbert, parachuted into the Arctic Ocean where they were separated from each other due to the severe weather conditions. Five hours later, a second team of two SAR technicians was lowered from a helicopter and successfully located all parties, including the two hunters. Sadly, Sgt Gilbert did not survive.
The five SAR technicians that responded to the call were all awarded the Star of Courage on October 30, 2013, including Sgt Gilbert posthumously.
We take this time to remind ourselves of the sacrifices and challenges of SAR technicians who risk their lives to save Canadians no matter the conditions.
