Honouring Captain Keith Mirau: Our Hometown Hero
- Gull Lake Events
- Aug 6
- 2 min read
I remember when Tom Frook wrote to town council, urging us to ensure Captain Keith Mirau never fades from our town’s collective story.
“Keith was a Gull Lake boy who joined the RCAF and who was killed in a Syrian missile strike in 1974 along with eight other airmen. It was because of this tragedy that National Peacekeepers’ Day came into being. I believe that it is only fitting that Keith’s hometown recognize the contribution of all peacekeepers but, especially, that of Keith Mirau—and that Gull Lake should be truly proud of him.”
— Tom Frook
Each August 9, Gull Lake stands with Canada in observing National Peacekeepers’ Day—and at home, we remember the sacrifice of Captain Keith Mirau above all. In 1974, his UN-marked Buffalo transport was shot down over Syria, claiming nine Canadian lives and marking our country’s largest single peacekeeping loss.
For broader context on Canada’s role in peacekeeping, see Canada’s peace support operations.
For an in-depth account of the Buffalo 461 incident, visit Buffalo 461.
In August 2016, Gull Lake Town Council proclaimed every August 9 as Captain Keith Mirau Day. A bronze plaque at Cenotaph Park now bears his name and story, ensuring his courage remains a visible part of our landscape and our hearts.
How to Remember on August 9
• Pause in silence at Cenotaph Park and read the plaque’s inscription
• Wear blue or display a peacekeeping symbol, such as a blue ribbon, in your home
• Share Captain Mirau’s story on social media with #KeithMirauDay
• Reach out to current or former peacekeepers with a personal note of thanks
Every personal act of remembrance keeps the memory of Captain Keith Mirau’s courage alive in our community.
On August 9th recognize and appreciate the efforts made by all those who serve our country with honour.
We invite you to leave a comment or share your memories of local peacekeepers below.
Blake Campbell
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