June 25, 2009
OTTAWA – Her Excellency the Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean, Governor General and Commander-in-Chief of Canada, will present the newly consecrated Queen’s Colour to Maritime Command. The event will take place at 10 a.m., on Saturday, June 27, 2009, at the Garrison Grounds, in Halifax.
During this grand ceremony, the Governor General will preside over the parade of 500 sailors and officers from across the country. In her address, Her Excellency will salute the achievements of the Canadian Navy over the years and acknowledge its upcoming centennial in 2010.
The Consecration and the Presentation of the Queen’s Colour is one of many events leading up to the commemoration the 100th anniversary of the Canadian Navy.
About the consecration and presentation of the Queen’s Colour
The traditions of this ceremony go back to the Elizabethan era and have been a vital part of the Navy since its beginning in 1910. The Queen’s Colour is a symbol of duty to Sovereign and Country, respect to military service, and represents heroism and honour. The ceremony celebrates the accomplishments of all naval personnel and remembers their sacrifices. The current Queen’s Colour has been in use for 30 years and will be retired and replaced on June 27, 2009.
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Media Information:
Marie-Ève Létourneau
Rideau Hall Press Office
613-998-0287 (office)
613-302-0912 (blackberry)
meletourneau@gg.ca
Major Paul Doucette
Joint Task Force Atlantic Public Affairs
National Defence
902-427-6981 (office)
902-403-2586 (cell.)
paul.doucette3@forces.gc.ca