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NORAD NEWS
News | July 1, 2003

Allies unite to celebrate Canada Day 2003

By TSgt. Devin Fisher NORAD and USNORTHCOM public affairs

In a show of camaraderie, members of the Canadian Armed Forces hosted their U.S. friends and allies to celebrate the 136th anniversary of Canada's birth July 1 at the Penrose House in Colorado Springs.

More than 500 people assembled for the North American Aerospace Defense Command's Canada Day celebration that provides Canadian Forces members working in Colorado Springs an opportunity to share their customs, culture and traditions with their American allies.

A common thread throughout the event was the great respect shared among the friends, allies and partners in defense.

"We are here today to celebrate the founding of one of the two great nations that share this great continent and work together to ensure the freedoms of democracy," said Canadian Lt. Gen. Ken Pennie, NORAD deputy commander in chief and Canada Day host.

"Being free societies makes us somewhat vulnerable," Pennie said referring to the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks on America. "But we cannot, and will not, be held hostage by terrorists."

Gen. Ed Eberhart, NORAD commander in chief and commander, U.S. Northern Command, echoes the admiration and bond shared between the Canadian and U.S. armed forces.

"Every year (Canada Day) provides us the opportunity to pause and reflect on our special relationship," Eberhart said. "Nowhere is a relationship stronger than in this bi-national partnership bound by its common values and goals."

The event featured the Canadian and American national anthems, entertainment by the United States Air Force Band of the Rockies, and special recognition of the service of one Canadian and one American.

During his address, Eberhart took a moment to honor Beverly Crockett who was serving her final day of more than 46 years of government service.

Identifying her as an "honorary Canadian," Eberhart noted Crockett carefully picked her last day of government service to coincide with Canada Day. It's only fitting considering that Crockett is the last original member to serve on the NORAD team since its inception May 12, 1958.

"I've been very proud to be a part of NORAD," said Crockett. "It serves as an example to the world of how two great nations can work together."

Representative of the cohesion shared between the Canadians and Americans in the Colorado Springs military community, Louise Desgroseilliers was recognized with the Canadian Community Service Award for her tireless efforts. The wife of Canadian Col. Jean-Luc Desgroseillers, NORAD command and control systems division chief, was honored for being an ambassador for her country serving the Canadian military and the local community.

As the case with most celebrations, the festivities were highlighted with the ceremonial cutting of the Maple Leaf cake by NORAD's top Canadian and U.S. officers.