News Release
NR-07.001 - May 24, 2007
OTTAWA – Commodore Margaret Kavanagh passed on the reins of command of the Canadian Forces Health Services Group to Brigadier-General Hilary Jaeger during a military ceremony held this morning at Ottawa’s National Arts Centre.
For Cmdre Kavanagh, the ceremony marks the end of a 32-year career as a Canadian Forces medical officer. Having taking command of the CF Health Services Group in April 2005, she leaves with great satisfaction to have had the opportunity to lead a formation of highly-trained medical and dental professionals, be they in uniform or civilians, which are well-recognized by both international and national healthcare communities.
“There’s really only one reason I stayed with the Canadian Forces for so many years. It’s the sense that we in the Canadian Forces Health Services are making a meaningful contribution to the Canadian Forces, Canadian society and the world, and I needed play my part” explains Cmdre Kavanagh. She adds, “As a commander of such professional group, I simply knew when the chips were down that the people I had the privilege to lead would always rise to the challenge.”
In addition to her responsibilities as Surgeon General, BGen Jaeger will now assume the responsibility to lead the Canadian Forces Health Services Group. She also becomes the Director General Health Services.
"In taking over command of such a well-functioning organization as the CF Health Services Group, it is important to recognize the outstanding efforts of my predecessors, including Cmdre Kavanagh, as well as the truly impressive skill and dedication of the members of the group," says BGen Jaeger. She continues, “My role will be to build on this solid foundation by bringing a fresh perspective to the challenges that undoubtedly lie ahead."
The mission of the CF Health Services Group is to provide full spectrum, high quality health services to Canada’s fighting forces wherever they serve. CF Health Services Group is over 5,600-strong, with Regular, Reserve and civilian personnel serving across Canada or deployed overseas, working in one of over 120 units and healthcare centers.
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Major André F. Berdais
Public Affairs Officer
CF Health Services Group
(613) 945-6388
