[www.inewsguyana.com] – Roraima Airways and the rest f Guyana’s aviation fraternity on Friday paid hero’s welcome to Medical Evacuation Pilot Captain Alvin Clarke.
Clarke lost his battle to Cancer on Saturday November 21, 2015 in Canada.
According to a release from Roraima Airways Captain Clarke served as an officer and pilot in Guyana Defence Force and gained ‘Veteran Medivac Pilot’ status over the years belting more than Thirteen thousand (13,000) hours of Flight time.
He also served as Roraima’s Chief Pilot from April 1, 2005 up to the time of his death and was nominated for a National Award by Attorney at Law Nigel Hughes and Roraima Airways.
Clarke’s body arrived on the tarmac at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport where scores of Aviators formed an honour passage as his body was taken off the Fly Jamaica Jet and transferred onto the BK Skytruck.
A moment of silence was also observed before the fleet of aircraft led by the Skytruck begun taxing for take-off for the flight over the city of Georgetown then finally touching down at the Ogle Airport where his family will took possession of his body.
Captain Gerry Gouveia stated “Captain Alvin Clarke was a real life Guyanese hero. When the nation slept, the people in the far flung areas of Guyana’s hinterland knew he was always on standby. He was always ready to respond. Whether the Medivac calls came from the Ministry of Health: Mid night, 2 am or 4 am for a sick child, a pregnant woman with complications, or an accident victim.”
He pointed out that night after night, year after year, Captain Alvin Clarke risked his own life to save so many people.
“He demonstrated commitment, he demonstrated courage, and he demonstrated exceptional skill and professionalism. More particularly he was consistent in his quest to be there and every night he was ready.”
Captain Clarke is expected to be buried today and there will be a flyover of his body by a fleet of Aircraft as a show of respect moments before burial.
It was indeed a fitting tribute to Capt. Clarke. RiP
Alvin deserves a hero welcome. He was a true gentleman. I have taught all three of his children and met him on a daily basis. He was devoted to his kids and always found time to converse with me. He took an interest in his children’s education.
My condolences to his dear wife, children, family and friends. May he rest in peace.