Artist's rendering of the new mid-shore patrol vessel
Brantford, Ontario –The Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence, on behalf of the Honourable Gail Shea, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, today announced that two new Canadian Coast Guard vessels will be named in remembrance of fallen First World War soldiers Corporal Joseph Kaeble, V.C., and Private James Peter Robertson, V.C.
“Our Government is proud to dedicate these new Coast Guard vessels in remembrance of two valiant soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country,” said Minister MacKay. “With this tribute, we are helping to keep alive the memory of these brave Canadians and their comrades for years to come.”
These vessels are the first of nine new mid-shore patrol vessels, which the Government of Canada intends to name after heroic Canadians who put their duty ahead of their safety in service to our country.
Corporal Joseph Kaeble, V.C., was born in St. Moise, Quebec. He joined the Royal 22nd Regiment in 1916. He died near Arras on June 9, 1918, while he single-handedly repelled a strong German attack with his Lewis gun. Private James Peter Robertson, V.C., was born in Pictou County, Nova Scotia. He joined the 27th Battalion in 1915. He died in battle on November 6, 1917, while rescuing two badly wounded fellow soldiers under severe fire. Both soldiers were awarded the Victoria Cross for their bravery and outstanding devotion to duty.
“Canadian Coast Guard vessels are symbols of safety, security, and sacrifice,” said Minister Shea. “The names of these vessels
remind Canadians of the ultimate sacrifice made by these
Canadians for our freedom.”
The Coast Guard vessels named in honour of Corporal Kaeble, V.C., and Private Robertson, V.C., are mid-shore patrol vessels, and will be used in a joint program with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police to enhance maritime security along the Great Lakes - St. Lawrence Seaway system.
CCGS Caporal Kaeble V.C. and CCGS Private Robertson V.C. are currently under construction in Halifax, Nova Scotia. The vessels are expected to enter service in the spring of 2012.
Backgrounder:
Government of Canada names two of the Coast Guard’s new Mid-Shore Patrol Vessels
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For more information:
Frank Stanek
Media Relations
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
613-993-5413
Nancy Bishay
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
(613) 992-3474
NR-HQ-10-54E
