Canadian Coast Guard officially welcomed to the Defence Team
October 15, 2025 – Defence Stories
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The Stadacona Band of the Royal Canadian Navy
The Canadian Coast Guard (CCG) was officially welcomed to the Defence Team during a ceremony held at the CCG Base in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia.
The October 10 event followed the formal transition of the CCG, and identified Fisheries and Oceans Canada internal services employees, into the Defence Team as part of the Order-in-Council made last month.
“As we welcome more than 6,000 CCG members to the Defence Team, we’ll be able to work even more closely together as we protect our coastlines, our borders, and the over 40 million people who call Canada home,” Minister of National Defence, David McGuinty observed.
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Minister of National Defence David McGuinty and Commissioner of the Canadian Coast Guard Mario Pelletier shaking hands
Distinguished guests, including senior leaders from the Department of National Defence (DND), the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF), and the CCG, were greeted in style as they proceeded through a receiving line of CCG Academy Cadets and CAF members. The ceremony opened with inspiring music performed by the Stadacona Band of the Royal Canadian Navy.
During the ceremony, attendees heard remarks from Minister McGuinty, Deputy Minister of National Defence Stefanie Beck, Chief of the Defence Staff General Jennie Carignan, and CCG Commissioner Mario Pelletier. Each speaker emphasized the importance of collaboration, shared values, and the strengthened capabilities this move brings to Canada’s defence and maritime safety efforts.
“The CCG joins DND with a renewed sense of purpose and optimism, built on decades of collaboration, partnership, and trust,” said Commissioner Pelletier.
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A receiving line of CCG Academy Cadets and CAF members
The Commissioner presented Minister McGuinty and Deputy Minister Beck with CCG flags as a symbol of this new chapter in the organizations’ shared journey.
The occasion was a proud moment for all involved, highlighting the joint commitment to safeguarding Canada’s waters and supporting communities across the country. The event established a strong foundation for positive collaboration and the shared journey of charting new waters together.
The recording of the ceremony is available to view, showcasing the highlights of this special event.