Statement by the Minister of National Defence on the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II

September 9, 2022 – Ottawa – National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces

“I join Canadians in mourning profoundly the loss of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, Queen of Canada and Commander-in-Chief of the Canadian Armed Forces.

Her Majesty The Queen had a deep and meaningful relationship with our country’s military, whose members admired her selfless leadership.

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.

With the grace and steadfastness that characterized her decades on the throne, The Queen stood with our Armed Forces as they navigated challenging post-war operations in Canada and abroad. 

On behalf of the Canadian Armed Forces and the Department of National Defence, I extend our most sincere and heartfelt condolences to members of the Royal Family.”