Royal Canadian Navy Welcomes New Commander

News release

June 12, 2019 – Ottawa – National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces

Vice-Admiral Art McDonald assumed the duties of Commander of the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) from Vice-Admiral Ron Lloyd this afternoon in a formal change of command ceremony presided over by General Jonathan Vance, Chief of the Defence Staff.

During the ceremony there was also a change of appointment which saw Chief Petty Officer First Class David Steeves assume the role of Command Chief of the Royal Canadian Navy from Chief Petty Officer First Class Michel Vigneault.

The ceremony was held at Her Majesty’s Canadian Dockyard, Halifax, home of Maritime Forces Atlantic.

Quotes

“I have been exceptionally blessed to finish my career as the Commander of the Royal Canadian Navy. On a daily basis for the last three years, the Command Chief and I have had the pleasure and privilege of witnessing firsthand, the incredible difference that Canadian sailors are making globally on behalf of Canada and Canadians. The future of the RCN is exceptionally bright and I could not be more pleased with how the leadership is embracing the once in a half-century opportunity that the largest recapitalization in our peacetime history represents. The Command Chief and I are so incredibly proud of Vice Admiral Art McDonald, Chief Petty Officer Dave Steeves and the entire One Navy Team and their loving families who provide them such incredible support. On behalf of the both of us, a heartfelt thank you to you all.”

Vice-Admiral Ron Lloyd, Outgoing Commander of the Royal Canadian Navy 

“I am humbled and honoured to assume the watch as Commander Royal Canadian Navy and to be charged with caring for and enabling the amazing Canadian sailors, my shipmates – and the families that support them. Together we will ensure the great people-delivered successes for which the RCN is known can continue to be realized. Inspired equally by a rich history and the bright future that the ongoing fleet recapitalization – the largest in our peacetime history – ensures, today’s sailors are equal parts warriors and diplomats. They work successfully alongside allies and partners at home and around the globe to combat crises – man-made or naturally occurring. They are ready to help, lead and fight. I’m excited to have the opportunity to continue supporting and enabling them and their successes by building on the enormous momentum created by my predecessor. I congratulate Vice-Admiral Ron Lloyd, and our outgoing Command Chief Petty Officer, Chief Petty Officer First Class Michel Vigneault, for their exceptional service and leadership. We all salute you as you retire.”   

Vice-Admiral Art McDonald, Incoming Commander of the Royal Canadian Navy 

Quick facts

  • Vice-Admiral McDonald assumes Command as the 36th Commander of the Royal Canadian Navy. He has served in a variety of command and staff roles throughout his career, most recently serving as Deputy Commander of the Royal Canadian Navy.

  • After three years as Commander of the Royal Canadian Navy as part of his distinguished 38 year naval career, Vice-Admiral Lloyd will enjoy retirement with his wife Louise.

  • The One Navy Team consists of approximately 13,000 full- and part-time military members and about 3,700 civilians stationed across Canada and deployed around the world.

  • From our Northern Waters to the Asia-Pacific. From West Africa, and the Caribbean Basin to the Mediterranean and Europe Atlantic, our sailors are globally deployed, supporting Government of Canada priorities and making significant contributions to operations with our allies and trusted international partners.

  • The RCN currently has three ships deployed on international operations throughout the world, in the Mediterranean, Asia-Pacific and the North Sea.

Contacts

Media Relations
Department of National Defence
Phone: 613-996-2353
Email: mlo-blm@forces.gc.ca

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