May 13, 2015, Ottawa - National Defence
Following a ceremony today at Camp Canada in Kuwait, Brigadier-General Lise Bourgon assumed command of Joint Task Force-Iraq (JTF-I) from Brigadier-General Dan Constable.
As Commander of JTF-I, Brigadier-General Bourgon will command approximately 600 Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) personnel deployed on Operation IMPACT -- Canada’s military contribution to the multinational coalition against the so-called Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS). JTF-I includes Air Task Force-Iraq (ATF-I) as well as planning teams and liaison officers working alongside counterparts.
Quick Facts
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Brigadier-General Bourgon, a Royal Canadian Air Force Maritime Helicopter pilot, has served in command roles throughout her career, including as Commanding Officer of 406 Maritime Operational Training Squadron and most recently, Commander of 12 Wing Shearwater. She was promoted to her current rank on 23 April.
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The personnel deployed on Op IMPACT are drawn from across the CAF and Department of National Defence. This mission employs a total force concept, which incorporates Regular Force, Reserve Force, and civilian personnel possessing the necessary capabilities and skills to support the mission.
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Operation IMPACT is the CAF contribution to the Middle East Stabilization Force – the multinational coalition to degrade and ultimately defeat ISIS.
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As part of JTF-I, ATF-I contributes to coalition air operations with intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions, aerial refueling, and airstrike missions using precision guided munitions.
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As part of JTF-I, approximately 69 members of the Canadian Armed Forces are working with U.S. forces in an advisory and assistance role by providing strategic and tactical advice to Iraqi security forces.
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On March 30, Operation IMPACT was extended for up to 12 months and its mission expanded to authorize the conduct of airstrikes against ISIS targets in Syria.
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To date, Canada’s effort to counter ISIS has included 896 airstrikes, 582 CF-18 Hornet sorties, 163 CP-140 Aurora reconnaissance missions, and 151 CC-150T Polaris sorties, which delivered more than 9 million pounds of fuel to coalition aircraft.
For pictures of the Change of Command ceremony, please visit: http://www.forcesimages.ca
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Lauren Armstrong
Office of the Minister of National Defence
(613) 996-3100
lauren.armstrong2@forces.gc.ca
Department of National Defence
Phone: (613) 996-2353
Toll-Free: 1 866 377-0811
