Sgt Mike Kobayashi, CD (Ret'd)

We regret to advise of the death of Sergeant Mike Kobayashi, CD (Ret'd) on 13 November 2020 in Abbotsford BC.

Mike was from Victoria BC and joined the Canadian Forces in 1974. After completing his basic sapper training at the Canadian Forces School of Military Engineering in Chilliwack BC, Mike served at 22 Field Squadron in Camp Gagetown NB and 2 Combat Engineer Regiment in Petawawa ON. He was both a qualified Combat Diver and Paratrooper when he remustered to Search and Rescue Technician (SAR Tech) in 1980.

Mike served in various postings during his career as a SAR Tech. His first posting was to Trenton ON followed by postings that included CFB Summerside PE, CFB Edmonton AB, and the Survival, Evasion, Resistance and Escape School at 17 Wing Winnipeg MB. His final posting was to 19 Wing Comox BC where he retired in April 1999.

As a Master Corporal SAR Tech with 440 Squadron, Mike participated in the rescue of the crew and passengers after crash of the C130 Hercules aircraft at CFS Alert on 30 October 1991 during the annual resupply Operation BOX TOP. Mike was awarded the Chief of Defence Staff  Commendation for his actions during the rescue and later portrayed himself in the film 'Ordeal in the Arctic'  about the rescue operation. 

Funeral details will be advised when known.