Chief of the Defence Staff recognizes United States Navy with Unit Commendations

News Release

May 27, 2015

OTTAWA — On behalf of General Tom Lawson, Chief of Defence Staff, Rear Admiral Bill Truelove, Commander of Maritime Forces Pacific and Joint Task Force Pacific, yesterday presented the Canadian Forces Unit Commendation to the United States Ship (USS) Michael Murphy and United States’ Navy Region Hawaii at a ceremony in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. These commendations were awarded for exceptional support of the crew of Her Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Protecteur that experienced a fire at sea.

Quick Facts

On February 27, 2014, HMCS Protecteur experienced a major engine room fire at sea while returning to its home port of Esquimalt, British Columbia, after a two-month deployment in the mid-Pacific.
The courage and professionalism of the entire crew saved the ship, but the damage resulted in a loss of power and propulsion. HMCS Protecteur was stopped in the water in challenging weather conditions, 340 nautical miles northeast of Pearl Harbor and needed assistance.
Within 24 hours of the fire, USS Michael Murphy and Navy Region Hawaii came to the aid of HMCS Protecteur. USS Michael Murphy took Protecteur under tow and engaged in continuous supply runs, evacuations, medical, and support operations to ensure the vessel’s safety. Navy Region Hawaii coordinated United States naval assets, strategic airlifts, and fleet maintenance activities, which ensured the successful return of HMCS Protecteur to Pearl Harbor.
Upon arrival at Pearl Harbor, United States Navy (USN) assistance continued with medical, logistical, administrative and technical support, as well as hot meals and temporary accommodations for Canadian sailors. The USN’s continued support enabled HMCS Protecteur to return to Canada.
The Canadian Forces Unit Commendation is a group award created to recognize distinguished service by a military unit.
Created by the Chief of the Defence Staff in 1980, the commendation is awarded to any formation, unit or sub-unit of the CAF, or to any similar organization of a foreign armed force working with or in conjunction with the CAF, that has performed a deed or activity considered beyond the demand of normal duty.

Quotes

“The dedication of the men and women of USS Michael Murphy and Navy Region Hawaii reflect the outstanding supportive relationship that exists between the United States and Canada and that of our respective navies. It is this interoperability that helps to ensure the security of North America and, through our strong alliance, enhances our capabilities both at home and abroad.”
Jason Kenney, Minister of National Defence

“Without hesitation, our closest friends and allies came to our aid. The actions of USS Michael Murphy and United States’ Navy Region Hawaii are a testament to their capabilities and commitment. They went above and beyond the demand of normal duty, and I am honoured to recognize them for their dedication in ensuring the safe return of our personnel.”
General Tom Lawson, Chief of the Defence Staff

“The assistance of the United States Navy was outstanding and we are very appreciative of the tremendous support they provided us during this difficult situation. Our effectiveness at sea has long been rooted in interoperability with our allies and partners, and our strong relationship will continue into our future.”
Vice-Admiral Mark Norman, Commander Royal Canadian Navy

Associated Links

For more information on the Royal Canadian Navy please visit www.navy-marine.forces.gc.ca or follow us on Twitter @RCN_MRC

For more information on Navy Region Hawaii: www.navy.mil/local/cnrh/

For more information on USS Michael Murphy: www.public.navy.mil/surfor/ddg112/Pages/default.aspx

- 30 –

Contacts

Lauren Armstrong
Press Secretary to the Minister of National Defence
613-996-3100
Lauren.Armstrong2@forces.gc.ca

Media inquiries

Media Relations
Department of National Defence
Phone: 613-996-2353
Toll-Free: 1-866-377-0811
Email: mlo-blm@forces.gc.ca

Search for related information by keyword

Hon. Jason Kenney National Defence and the Canadian Armed Forces Military

Page details

2016-12-14

We have archived this page and will not be updating it.

We have archived this page and will not be updating it.

Chief of the Defence Staff recognizes United States Navy with Unit Commendations

News Release

Page details