

Episode 66: The Counter-Drug Ops: Flying SAR and counter-narcotics missions in the Caribbean and flying the De Havilland Dash 8 for PAL Part 1 - Pat Lalande, Trevor Juby
Aug 26, 2025
Pat Lalande, a retired Master Warrant Officer and tactical coordinator with PAL Aerospace, joins Trevor Juby, retired Lieutenant Colonel and Chief Pilot, to share their incredible journeys from the RCAF to counter-narcotics missions in the Caribbean. They discuss the challenges of military aviation, including close calls during Search and Rescue operations. Insights on transitioning from the Army to Air Force highlight the importance of varied military training. Their passion for aviation shines through as they navigate the complexities of current missions in a dynamic region.
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Career Path From Army To Maritime Patrol
- Pat Lalande explains his long path from field engineer to Airborne Electronic Sensor Operator after army service and deployments.
- He recounts multiple squadron moves and eventual posting to PAL Aerospace in Curaçao as mission commander.
First Mine Clearance In Croatia
- Pat describes his first operational deployment clearing real landmines in Croatia and the intense focus required.
- He recalls the heart-racing moment when encountering real explosives and how procedures kept the team safe.
On The Ground In Kosovo
- Pat recalls deploying into Kosovo at the tail end of the air campaign and observing the damaged infrastructure during the advance.
- He describes tense encounters with Russian forces manning road checkpoints near the airport.