Celebrating National Public Service Week 2024

June 10, 2024 - Defence Stories

Message from the National Public Service Week Champion 

Dear Defence Team members,

As we celebrate National Public Service Week, I want to take this opportunity to extend my heartfelt gratitude to each of you for your unwavering dedication and service to Canada. This year’s theme Proudly Serving Canadians resonates deeply in our collective mission and the dedication each of you brings to our role within Defence.

Your work at the Department of National Defence, and in conjunction with the Canadian Armed Forces, is crucial to the safety, security, and well-being of all Canadians. Through your hard work, whether in the field, in offices, or working remotely, you exemplify the value of integrity, excellence, and resilience and your commitment to excellence and duty is the cornerstone of our national security. Each of you plays an indispensable part in our success, and this week, we celebrate you.

This week is also here to remind us of the power of collaboration and teamwork, as a team, we can achieve excellence and overcome challenges. Together, we have navigated through some leadership changes, addressed unique challenges, including discussions about the updates to Direction on prescribed presence in the workplace and supported our military colleagues through global geopolitical tensions and numerous domestic operations. Let’s use this week to strengthen our bonds, share our achievements, and continue to inspire each other. Your resilience, adaptability, and professionalism in addressing these challenges have been nothing short of exemplary. You have continued to uphold the highest standards, ensuring that our colleagues in the CAF are well-prepared and that our national interests are protected.

Looking forward

As we look to the future, let’s remain dedicated to continuous improvement and innovation while embracing the unique background, skills, and perspectives that each of you brings to Defence. Our strength lies in our diversity, and each member's unique perspective and expertise contribute to the overall success of our mission. Your collaborative spirit and innovative thinking are what enable us to navigate complex issues and achieve our goals.

As we honour your contributions during National Public Service Week, I encourage you to take pride in your work and reflect on the positive impact you have made. During this week, I also invite you to actively participate in the events and activities planned, whether it is through virtual town halls, pizza lunches, recognition ceremonies, or sharing your stories and successes in formal or informal context, let’s take this opportunity to reflect on our accomplishments, address our challenges, and look forward to what we can continue to achieve. 

Thank you for your unwavering support and dedication and for being an integral part of Defence. Your efforts do not go unnoticed, and your service to Canada is deeply appreciated by all.

Together, we proudly serve Canadians.

With sincere appreciation,

Taylor Paxton
Corporate Secretary
Department of National Defence National Public Service Week Champion