The RCAF Association has forever acknowledged amongst its many important functions its staunch support for democracy, inclusion, fairness, equality, individual liberties and civil discourse. These elements are key to success of the RCAF Association at the Wing, community, Group, region, provincial and federal levels, as they are objectives entirely consistent with what it means to be Canadian. Consequently, the RCAF Association de l’ARC joins people and organizations of conscience everywhere in condemning the ongoing, unprovoked, and unlawful Russian incursion into Ukraine. The destruction wrought against the citizens of Ukraine, and the terrible costs to lives and livelihoods are simply unacceptable. As the situation worsens, the potential outcomes are dire, and the consequences loom large for not just Ukraine’s post-Soviet independence, but also for the nations making up greater Europe, nations which have not experienced such a conflict since the end of the Second World War. We know of many uniformed Canadians, and other Canadian diplomats, working tirelessly to address these disturbing developments. We also know of some RCAF Association members in uniform who may still be in danger near to the unfolding distressing action. I join all members of the RCAF Association in expressing our concern and care for these members, but also for our brothers and sisters in NATO, as well as the citizens of Ukraine and other European nations adversely impacted by Russia’s unwarranted and destabilizing actions. Per Ardua Ad Astra – Sic Itur Ad Astra.