January 14, 2005 OTTAWA -- Minister Bill Graham welcomed the Prime Minister's announcement appointing Lieutenant-General Rick Hillier as the new Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS), effective Feb. 4. "Lt.-Gen. Hillier assumes the position at a very important time for the Canadian Forces," said Bill Graham, Minister of National Defence referring to the Government's defence policy review looking at what kind of military Canada needs in the post-September 11 th security environment. "Lt.-Gen. Hillier's leadership and experience will be invaluable as we move forward in this process to transform the Canadian Forces to meet the security challenges Canada faces. He has extensive experience serving in Canada, Europe and the United States. Lt.-Gen. Hillier has more operational experience than most having served a number of times on United Nations and NATO missions - most recently lead some 6,000 troops from 35 nations as the commander of NATO's International Security Assistance Force (ISAF)." "I have complete confidence in his ability to shape and implement Canadian Forces transformation," said Graham. "It is truly a privilege to receive this appointment," said Lt.-Gen. Hillier. "I assume this position with great pride in the Canadian Forces, and even greater humility for being offered this opportunity to lead those who I believe represent the very best of Canadians - the men and women of the Canadian Forces." General Ray Henault, who leaves the CDS post to take up the position of NATO's most senior military officer as Chairman of the Military Committee, expressed confidence in Lt.-Gen. Hillier's ability to transform the Canadian Forces. "As Chief of the Land Staff, Lt.-Gen. Hillier has made great strides in implementing army transformation and has been involved actively in similar efforts by NATO and the United States," said Gen. Henault. "I congratulate him on his appointment and will hand over to him with the full knowledge that he will lead the Canadian Forces through the transformation process required to maintain its relevance, responsiveness and effectiveness well into the future." Lt.-Gen. Hillier, who will assume the position of CDS after commanding the army for two years, expressed admiration for Gen. Henault's leadership. "I believe the Canadian Forces has made great strides adapting to the security realities facing Canada," said Lt.-Gen. Hillier. "This is due in large part to the efforts of Gen. Henault and I will strive to build on his successes." -30-
