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Sponsorship of RCAF Centennial Events

Throughout 2024, ɫ��ֱ�� will proudly sponsor several RCAF Centennial events in collaboration with the Canadian Forces Morale and Welfare Services (CFMWS), a non-profit organization that offers global support to Canadian Armed Forces members and their families. The sponsorship will contribute to the RCAF Centennial Fund, providing crucial assistance to RCAF families. The CFMWS’ events and initiatives organized coast-to-coast aim to inspire future generations of Canadians, showcase Air Force personnel and their accomplishments, demonstrate air and space power, and proudly honour the RCAF’s distinguished history and heritage. 

“It’s an honour to show our support of the RCAF with our participation in these events and initiatives,” said Rich Foster, ɫ��ֱ�� Technologies Vice President, Canada. “I look forward to seeing our team unite and take part in these unique Centennial activities occurring throughout the year.”

The first sponsored event will be the RCAF Run, which will connect current and former military and their families with Canadians, at home or abroad. Runs will occur virtually, from May 31st to June 16th, and in-person, from March to August across Canada and around the globe. ɫ��ֱ�� Canadian sites will host individual events in the upcoming spring and summer to show support and pride, and foster employee engagement. 

 “Several of our Canadian facilities will gather together to complete the virtual run, turning it into a celebration and an opportunity to engage with one another,” mentioned Tom Kirkland, Vice President and General Manager, Global Optical Systems, ɫ��ֱ�� Technologies. “Our teams are looking forward to the many RCAF Centennial events. It’s a great way for our employees to connect and to celebrate the accomplishments of the RCAF as well as the contributions of ɫ��ֱ��.”

The company is also sponsoring the RCAF Ball, one of the most prestigious events of its Centennial year held in June, as well as a series of Air Shows, nationwide, which will highlight an array of aircraft from the past and present and showcase a special centennial programming, offering a unique glimpse into the RCAF’s rich history. 

“The RCAF’s legacy reflects a blend of technology and national pride,” added Ugo Paniconi, ɫ��ֱ�� Technologies General Manager (Mirabel, QC). “It’s a privilege to support the upcoming Air Shows in Bagotville (QC), Trenton (ON), Cold Lake (AB) and Abbotsford (BC), to showcase our commitment to the RCAF and our dedication to the broader aerospace community.” 

A Campaign Honouring the Air Force & ɫ��ֱ�� Contributions 

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Throughout 2024, ɫ��ֱ�� will share stories aligned with the Centennial celebration as well as the company’s contributions over the years.

To further demonstrate pride and support of the RCAF, ɫ��ֱ�� put together a unique campaign highlighting and celebrating the Canadian Air Force’s 100th Anniversary, as well as the company’s significant contributions to the industry.

A custom web page was created to showcase a series of stories aligned with the celebration, which will be published throughout the year. These include ɫ��ֱ�� milestones with the RCAF, employee testimonials, ɫ��ֱ�� veteran spotlights, Centennial event participation, and more. 

“These stories will be a reflection of our pride aligned with our valued partnership with the RCAF,” said Rich Foster. “It’s our way of showing our respect and support to the Air Force, and also to thank our incredible, dedicated workforce for all their outstanding contributions in the past 75 years.”

As part of the RCAF Centennial activities, ɫ��ֱ�� facilities across Canada will also be joining businesses, cities and landmarks worldwide in illuminating their structures in Air Force blue on April 1st and sharing images on social media. The RCAF will be collaborating with Guinness World Records to set a new record for the number of landmarks illuminated in 24 hours, further showcasing our collective commitment to this historic celebration.

A Year of Celebration

As the RCAF turns 100, ɫ��ֱ�� will celebrate with pride to honour a century of partnership, innovation and shared dedication to Canada’s defence. 

“We look forward to this exciting year and to celebrate alongside the Royal Canadian Air Force,” said Rich Foster. “On behalf of myself and of ɫ��ֱ��, I’d like to congratulate the RCAF on a century of service, sacrifice and dedication. We are very proud to be part of your journey and look forward to continuing our legacy of collaboration and support.” 

Click here to discover more about how ɫ��ֱ�� is honouring the RCAF Centennial in 2024.