Meet the Operations Officer deployed on Operation CARIBBE

Navy News / May 17, 2021

By Captain Sarah Harasymchuk, HMCS Brandon Public Affairs Officer

Note: Names on this operation cannot be released due to personnel security. The Operations Officer is a Naval Warfare Officer at the rank of Lieutenant (Navy).

Q1: Tell us about your role in Her Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Brandon as the Operations Officer for Operation CARIBBE.

A1: My job is to manage the operations department, so what that means in the context of this deployment is my team is responsible for interpreting intelligence we receive about possible drug laden vessels in the area, making recommendations to the Commander on what action to take and then disseminating that information to the ship. I work closely with the U.S. Coast Guard Law Enforcement Detachment 103 team we have on board, throughout the whole process, to ensure we have successful drug interdictions.

Q2: What do you like the most about your job?

A2: It’s a fast-paced and challenging job, so it’s never a dull day. It’s also great to be part of something that has real-world implications.

Q3: How did you get selected for this deployment?

A3: I sailed with the Brandon last fall and knew then that the ship would be deploying on Op CARIBBE. I requested the deployment through my career manager and was selected.

Q4: Why did you join the Naval Reserve?

A4: I joined the Naval Reserve in 2010 because I was looking for a summer job. It’s one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.

Q5: Tell us more about yourself, where you’re from and how you ended up in the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN).

A5: My family is from India and we moved to Calgary in 2001 for my dad’s work. My parents fell in love with Alberta and we applied for permanent residency and then citizenship. We became Canadians in 2008. Canada is a great country and has afforded us so many opportunities. Being part of the RCN is a great way to give back.