Nelson Mandela’s historic three-day visit to Canada from June 17–19, 1990, was a key stop on his international tour to maintain anti-apartheid sanctions. He arrived in Ottawa, addressed a joint session of Parliament, met with Prime Minister Brian Mulroney, and held rallies in Toronto and Montreal, drawing massive crowds.(Taken from CBC Archives)
I was a New Fight Steward at 412 Transport V.I.P Squadron in June 1990.I was transferred in April 1990.My training Steward for this Flight was Master Corporal Gary Chandler.It was a trip where I took care of handling Catering,In Fight Service where we served Sliced fruit trays,Veggie trays,
Sandwiches and dainty pastries as well as Beverages.If my memory serves me right.We had about twenty people on board to take care of.Nelson and Winnie were very friendly with hugs and hand Shakes.Even signed an Autograph for us.We did an Over Night in Toronto and Montreal.In Montreal we were parked close to Motley Crue’s Plane when they were on there Dr.Feelgood tour.Had to do a photo opportunity by the Groups Plane.Some day I might be a Rock Star.That Ship Sailed.I might have been left at the Air Port.When we dropped the Mandalas off at New York there were 20 thousand New York’s finest there to Escort them through the City.New York knows how to put out the Welcome Matt.Even a Mobile Police Station set up on the Tarmac.I remember one of the Customs
Agents coming onboard with a Big Camera with a Big Flash Bulb on it and posed for a Photo with Nelson.A real Einstein he was.Looked at the Crew’s Passports.Guess he never seen Green Passports before.What kind are these?Where Y’ll from? Not much have changed.Ok I have to serve some Chilli.