Statement from the Commander 1 Canadian Air Division

August 30, 2023 – Ottawa (ON) - National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces

“On August 28, the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) filed charges against Colonel Leif Dahl, the Commander of 8 Wing and Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Trenton, stemming from an incident on August 25, 2023 when Col Dahl was on leave in the local area. 

The matter remains under investigation by the civilian authorities, and the charges against Col Dahl will be heard in civilian court on September 28, 2023. While the legal process runs its course in the civilian court system, I have decided to temporarily remove Col Dahl from command pending the outcome of the investigative process and court proceedings, and to appoint Lieutenant-Colonel Matt Lederle as Acting Wing Commander of 8 Wing and CFB Trenton. 

It is my responsibility to ensure that the members of 8 Wing have full confidence in their leadership and chain-of-command. LCol Lederle has proven himself as the current commanding officer of 429 Squadron and is the right officer to provide continuity, stability and thoughtful leadership to the Royal Canadian Air Force’s busiest Wing at this difficult time.”

Major-General Iain Huddleston
Commander
1 Canadian Air Division