Moose Jaw showed its love as the Canadian Forces Snowbirds returned home on Monday after Operation Inspiration was tragedically cut short.

The Snowbirds were forced to end the mission after one of their Tutor jets crashed shortly after takeoff on May 17 in Kamloops. Public Affairs Officer Capt. Jenn Casey was killed in the accident and Capt. Richard MacDougall was injured.

The squadron returned to 15 Wing Moose Jaw in a Hercules aircraft after being in Halifax to return Casey home.

Across town, people used chalk to draw large hearts to show their support and people came outside to wave as they flew over the city.

"I thought the support was wonderful. I knew it would be good because I've personally seen it when the community comes together and the outpouring," said 15 Wing Honourary Colonel Lisa Franks, who helped organize everything.

"I've felt that in my own time and I knew without hesitation that the city would come together and pull something really special off to welcome the Snowbirds home."

Meanwhile, Moose Jaw's emergency services had static displays and dozens of people showed up to Tourism Moose Jaw and arranged their vehicles in the shape of a heart.

Wakamow Valley Authority mowed a heart into the grass, while over at Central Collegiate the Saskatchewan Roughriders brought over a giant Canada flag.

Franks was appreciative of all the organizations that came together to help honour the snowbirds.

"I was just a testament to how well-loved they are from all around the province and even I saw the hashtags from across Canada of people wanting to take part with the chalk art. It was just beautiful to see," Franks said.