This is a story about new beginnings and new life in Saskatchewan, the province that was developed by newcomers and that, in turn, enabled the development of newcomers. The harshness of the climate and the austerity of the land dictated that survival was literally a life and death struggle in the early going. For those who were strong and determined, the land brought forth multiple rewards. It permitted newcomers to prosper in material ways, and to raise children and see their dreams for their children fulfilled. Against unbelievable odds, including limited personal resources, the severe economic conditions of the 30s and the harsh weather, these families established roots and contributed to the economic and cultural mosaic which is Canada today. Michael Zrymiak is a Saskatchewan native son. He was born into an immigrant farming family and educated in a school called Hard Rock, before enrolling in the Air Force as a pilot and leaving the province. But Saskatchewan never left his soul and his feelings for the austere magnificence of the Canadian prairies remain vibrant and fresh.

Michael Zrymiak is a Saskatchewan native son. He earned his RCAF pilot wings in 1955, when he began an interesting three and a half decade air force career during the Cold War era. Highlights included flying with the VIP transport squadron in Ottawa, as a pilot for Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, and dignitaries such as Pierre E. Trudeau. He attended National Defense College and in 1985 was selected as the base commander of Canadian Forces Base Edmonton. He retired in 1987 and transferred to the Air Reserve to serve another four years representing British Columbia interests.

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Mike Zrymiak takes you there in Prairie Roots. Read & enjoy. Get infected... And if you're not from Saskatchewan, you'll wish you were.

Benno Friesen