The Kamloops Legion now says the tribute for Capt. Jennifer Casey planned for 11 a.m. tomorrow morning at the airport will not be open to the public because of concerns about a potential mass gathering with COVID-19 restrictions.

Legion President Craig Thomson says this moves comes on the advice of Interior Health officials.

“The ceremony itself is going to be less than 50 people, but it appears that from what we’re hearing and finding out is there will probably be more than that in the area and we’re taking that precaution based on advice from Interior Health,” he told NL News.

“I think the enthusiasm in the community and such is just a little more than what we anticipated originally.”

The event, he says, will still include a limited number of Legion members, 886 (Overlander) Wing, Anavets, and other invited presenters and speakers.

For Kamloopsians who want to watch the event, Thomson says they have arranged to have it livestreamed on the Royal Canadian Legion’s facebook page.

“We want to ensure the Kamloops community that we appreciate that this is a difficult time for everyone, and that we all share the heartbreak,” he added. “Our tribute ceremony offers everyone a moment to pause, listen to the words of remembrance, hear the bugle and piper, and remember in our own way.”

“We sincerely hope that everyone takes a moment to reflect and remember safely in their homes or work environments.”

– With files from Jeff Andreas