As stoic as members of the military seem at times, they are human, too.

At a news conference in Timmins Monday afternoon, announcing that a Kapuskasing couple’s helicopter had been found with them dead inside, military search master Captain Marty Zimmer was noticeably shaken.

“Our thoughts (clears throat) and condolences go out to the friends and families of Jody and Nicole Blais,” he said, choking back tears.

Capt. Marty Zimmer, 424 Squadron 8 Wing Trenton. Photo credit: Bob McIntyre, Moose FM

Zimmer told My Cochrane Now Dot Com’s Bob McIntyre that he has a dedicated search and rescue crew, always hoping to bring family members back to their loved ones.

Zimmer: “Yeah, it is emotional for the whole crew.”

McIntyre: “How long have your been working search and rescue yourself?”

Zimmer:  “Ahh, 34 years.”

McIntyre: “And you still get emotional.”

Zimmer: “Yes, absolutely.”