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Labrador Bond: A Pilot's Memory Lives On
31 May
Summary
- Mushuau Innu First Nation flag honored annually in Forteau.
- Pilot Damien Hancock died in a 1999 plane crash.
- Community bonds forged through shared tragedy 27 years ago.
In Forteau, Labrador, a poignant annual ceremony takes place to commemorate pilot Damien Hancock, who perished in a plane crash on March 19, 1999. A crowd gathers to witness the raising of the Mushuau Innu First Nation flag, a symbol of the enduring connection between Forteau and the Innu community. Hancock's final flight was to Davis Inlet, then home to the Mushuau Innu, delivering essential supplies.
Damien Hancock developed a passion for flying after working as a geological prospector. Despite initial family concerns about aviation's dangers, his strong desire led him to flight school and a career flying passengers and cargo across Labrador. Tragically, at 22 years old, he died during a flight in severe whiteout conditions over the sea ice near Davis Inlet.
Prote Poker, a witness, recounted the stormy day and the quiet that followed the plane's engine noise, signaling a crash. He led a search party that located the destroyed aircraft on the sea ice. The Innu community members provided comfort and prayers at the clinic, tending to both the survivor and Hancock's body.
Hancock's mother, Freda, described the news as devastating but found solace in learning that the Innu stayed with her son's body until it could be returned. She believes the Innu viewed his death as a sacrifice for them, as he was bringing them necessities. This profound act of care fostered a lasting connection.
The annual flag-raising in Forteau began on the first anniversary, while a cross was placed near the crash site in Davis Inlet. Freda Hancock's subsequent visits to Natuashish and the crash site revealed deep spiritual connections and unexpected kindness from the Innu elders, who referred to her as "Damien's mom."
An investigation by the Transportation Safety Board cited "several serious deficiencies" in company safety related to Hancock's flight. Despite ongoing discussions about air safety oversight, Freda Hancock chooses to focus on healing and remembrance, emphasizing the vital role pilots play in northern communities.
