For Immediate Release
November 16, 2007

John Baird and Lakeview Public School Reflect on Remembrance Week
Special Guests Help Send Postcards to Troops Overseas

(Ottawa) – Following Remembrance Day ceremonies over the weekend, John Baird, MP (Ottawa West-Nepean) took some time to visit the Grade Five class of Mme. Poirier at Lakeview Public School on Monday, November 12th. The Lakeview community also welcomed two additional guests: Flight Lieutenant (Retired) Walter Kasper of the Royal Canadian Air Force #408 Bomber Squadron and Lieutenant Will Lymer of the Governor General’s Foot Guards. Children and teachers listened attentively as each visitor presented his perspective of war and remembrance.

Reflecting on a trip to Afghanistan, Mr. Baird recounted how he felt near the forward operating bases of the mission in Afghanistan, “It was a tremendous privilege to spend time with our troops and see first-hand what they see on the front lines.”

Mr. Kasper, a Lancaster pilot during World War II, told stories of flying his bomber over enemy controlled Europe, the perils of air combat and explained each of the many medals on his chest. When asked what he remembered most clearly of the war Mr. Kasper responded clearly, “being scared.” Lieutenant Will Lymer followed Mr. Baird and Mr. Kasper and entertained the students by displaying some of his equipment.

Towards the end of the visit Mr. Baird highlighted a new Canada Post program that invites friends and families to send letters, postage free, to Canadian Forces in Afghanistan and elsewhere overseas. With the help of Mr. Baird, Mr. Kasper and Lt. Lymer, each student wrote a postcard to a deployed Canadian soldier. “This is a great idea that allows us to more easily keep in touch with our troops,” said Baird. “Considering what the Canadian Forces have done for this country, I think free letter delivery is the least we can do.”

Effective October 26th, 2007 until the end of 2008, friends and family can send regular lettermail to soldiers abroad free of charge. For the holiday season, Canada Post is also offering free parcel service for friends and family to deployed Canadian Forces from October 26th, 2007 to January 11th, 2008.

Photo (L-R): Flight Lieutenant (Retired) Walter Kasper of the Royal Canadian Air Force #408 Bomber Squadron, Lieutenant Will Lymer of the Governor General’s Foot Guards, John Baird, MP (Ottawa West-Nepean) and Lakeview Public School students mailing postcards to deployed Canadian Forces.

Further information:
Office of John Baird, MP
Ottawa West-Nepean
613-996-0984