Led WWII forestry unit, Baird dead at 93

Edgar Baird, who led 960 foresters from Newfoundland to Scotland during the Second World War, has died.

Baird was 93.

Born in Campbellton, Baird served as the superintendent of the Newfoundland Overseas Forestry Unit.

The unit was recruited to provide timber for the war effort.

Baird later joined the Royal Air Force.

When he returned to Newfoundland, he worked at the Bowater paper mill, and as a bush pilot and outfitter. He also owned the Gander Lumber Co.

Baird received the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador last year.

In a statement, Premier Danny Williams praised Baird's professional and personal achievements.

"He was a great Newfoundlander – an environmentalist, a leader and a truly engaged citizen," Williams' statement said.

Baird died Sunday in Gander.