Halifax, Saturday, June 27, 2009
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I would like to begin by confiding something to you.
I grew up under the yoke of a ruthless dictatorship, where the military uniform came to symbolize the brutal repression of the people, tyranny and massacres.
Since becoming commander-in-chief of the Canadian Forces, I have had the opportunity to work alongside you-the women and men of this country who don the uniform.
I have visited your places of work.
I have seen you in action.
On board HMCS Calgary in Victoria, HMCS Windsor right here in Halifax, HMCS Iroquois in Casablanca, Morocco.
I have also seen the extent and impact of your work during my visit to Haiti last January.
For weeks, HMCS St. John's ship's company brought relief and supplies to the people in the south, who were completely cut off from the rest of the country in the wake of four hurricanes in four weeks.
You can see how far I have come, from the child who saw her parents, her family, her friends grappling with the horrors of oppression, to the woman who stands before you today.
And I can say before you now with absolute certainty that it is an honour and a source of great pride for me to wear your uniform.
Particularly because next year, we will be celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Canadian Navy, the oldest branch in the Canadian Forces.
Of course, today, we are part of an historic occasion.
An occasion when Canada, a maritime nation, pays tribute to the men and women who protect the territorial waters of the world's longest coastline, who defend its sovereignty and sail the high seas under the banner of peace, justice and freedom.
The first time such a ceremony took place was in 1939, as war loomed in Europe.
The second time was in 1959, when the world was divided by the Iron Curtain.
The third time was in 1979, at the height of the Cold War.
Thirty years later, this ceremony has come at a time of uncertainty and when for the first time in many years, Canada is having to face the difficult and painful reality of armed conflict.
Take pride in knowing that you have inherited a rich tradition of service, valour and honour.
Consider the Canadian ships on patrol during the First World War, the Battle of the Atlantic, the women and men who served in Korea.
Consider the Canadian Navy's participation in UN and NATO operations, in large-scale coalition and humanitarian operations.
Consider its much-lauded role in the fight against piracy, widely covered by the media not so long ago.
During my State visit to Norway this past April, I received the sincere thanks of the Norwegian authorities for the involvement of HMCS Winnipeg in the Gulf of Aden, off the coast of Somalia.
A few days earlier, pirates had tried to seize a Norwegian cargo ship, but they were driven off by HMCS Winnipeg which, I was told, chased them for several hours.
You have always endeavoured to protect marine spaces and bring security to the world waterways.
And it is thanks to you that our country is able to make a vital contribution to all nations, by helping to stave of threats and defuse dangerous situations and by taking part in humanitarian efforts.
And so it is with confidence and pride that I present to you this new colour.
May it be a symbol for you of the loyalty, ingenuity and professionalism that have earned the Canadian Navy its reputation to this day.
As the storm rages on, when hope seems all but lost, may it be your guide and give you renewed strength and courage.
And above all, may it rekindle your sense of belonging to the extended Navy and Canadian Forces family.
Know that wherever your duty may take you, you can count on the recognition and respect of your fellow citizens.
I would like to take this opportunity to extend my sincere thanks to your families, who have joined you here today and who have themselves made tremendous sacrifices so that you can serve in the Navy.
In particular, I am thinking of the long stretches of time that you spend away from them while at sea.
May this day remain forever in the annals of the Canadian Navy and the history of our country as a day when sailors and officers from across this vast country proclaimed with one voice: "Ready, Aye, Ready!"
