National Day of Mourning on September 19, 2022 to Commemorate Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II

September 14, 2022 - Defence Stories

As announced by the Prime Minister, Monday, September 19, 2022, will be a one-time National Day of Mourning for the federal public service, including the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF), to coincide with Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s State Funeral and the end of the official period of mourning in Canada. This is a unique moment in our history and this day of reflection will provide Defence Team members with time to remember Her Majesty The Queen, commemorate her remarkable life and dedication to service, and to consider the special relationship she enjoyed with the Canadian Armed Forces.

Defence Team members are encouraged to view the televised and live-streamed national commemorative ceremony held at Christ Church Cathedral in Ottawa or the State Funeral held at Westminster Abbey in London, England. Invitees to the national ceremony will include government officials, dignitaries, and representatives of organizations with whom Her Majesty had a close connection, such as charities and military regiments. Details about the ceremony will be published on Canada.ca as they become available.

Her Majesty The Queen had a deep and meaningful relationship with our military and its members. During her 22 official visits to Canada, Her Majesty The Queen reaffirmed her close relationship with several Canadian military units, as well as numerous Regiments and Branches that bear Royal designations. The Queen stood with our Armed Forces as they navigated challenging post-war operations in Canada and abroad.

Department of National Defence Public Service employees who have already had leave approved for September 19, 2022, should enter an amendment in the system. Public Service employees should speak to their manager and/or contact HR Connect at 1-833-747-6363 if they have any questions.

While not everyone will be able to attend ceremonies in person or watch the broadcast live due either to the time zone in which you live or because you are a CAF member who will be on operations or duty throughout the day, members are encouraged to take the opportunity to visit the commemorative web site, and to reflect on Her Majesty’s lifelong devotion to service, our country, and our military in whatever way is most meaningful to them.