A group of seven local pilots who fly in formation over services honouring local veterans and their families, has adopted a new name -- the 403 Honour Flight.
Flight lead Mark Seibutis says the team, which was formed eight years ago, fly over local Remembrance Day services and the funerals of local veterans, as well as pilots, who served for the Royal Canadian Air Force.
"I have a book full of thank you letters and requests," says Seibutis. "Last year, I think we had 19 requests from different groups asking if we could fly over their ceremonies."
He says they don't do it for money or praise, but as a gesture of respect and thanks.
"The veterans gave up everything they did, during the different wars that they fought, so that we would have those freedoms to do that. So, when we go overhead I hope people remember that."
Seibutis says the team wears blue flight suits, with badging of the Canadian Air Force Association to represent the Royal Canadian Airforce Sarnia 403 Wing.
The pilots are members of the COPA Flight flying club, which has planned a fundraiser to benefit the Sarnia 44 Squadron Air Cadets during this week's appearance of the B-17 "Sentimental Journey" at Chris Hadfield Airport.
The club will hold an NHL jersey auction Thursday at a 1940's-themed dinner and dance at the airport.