The Canadian Armed Forces and the CF Snowbirds mourned one of their own on Monday.
 
Former 8 Wing Public Affairs Officer Jennifer Casey was killed on Sunday after the Snowbirds jet she was in crashed into a house in Kamloops, B-C shortly after takeoff from the city's airport.
 
The Snowbirds flew over the Quinte region more than a week ago as part of the group's 'Operation Inspiration' tour, aimed at honouring Canada's frontline workers during the coronavirus pandemic.
 
Reacting to the news, Quinte West Mayor Jim Harrison said the tragedy felt like a punch to the gut.
 
"It's shocking and it's sad and it really hurts. You've got to look at the positive and remember these people are well-trained.  They follow their training procedures to the Nth degree and we recognize it.  From all the people I represent to our military family, our extended military family, our thoughts and prayers are with each and every one of you."
 
Casey lived in Quinte West for a time while at 8 Wing -- prior to that, she worked as a radio news anchor and producer in her hometown of Halifax and in Belleville.
 
Harrison met with Casey on a few occasions during his term as mayor and reflected on the opportunities he experienced.
 
"Jennifer was a person to be admired and respected. She started out with the media broadcast, joined the military, and just shone in everything that she did and was recognized as a great leader and obviously, a competent pilot to become a member of the Snowbirds."
 
Harrison had nothing but praise for Casey and all she accomplished in her life.

"She was just a glowing light," said Harrison.  "A vibrant young lady, passionate about what she was doing and passionate about her future and looking forward to achieving great accomplishments -- and she did."