Chief of the Defence Staff recognizes USNS Sioux with Unit Commendation

News Release

June 16, 2015 - Ottawa - Department of National Defence / Royal Canadian Navy

The Canadian Forces Unit Commendation was presented today to the United States Naval Ship (USNS) Sioux for exceptional support to the officers and crew of Her Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Protecteur when they experienced a fire at sea last year. Commodore Bob Auchterlonie, Commander, Canadian Fleet Pacific, presented the award on behalf of General Tom Lawson, Chief of the Defence Staff, during a ceremony at Naval Base San Diego.

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 middle of the Pacific Ocean.
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.
USNS Sioux rendered invaluable assistance by successfully taking HMCS Protecteur under tow back to Pearl Harbor. Working with damaged towing equipment, the crew demonstrated exceptional technical expertise and incredible seamanship.
United States Ship (USS) Michael Murphy, Navy Region Hawaii, and United States Ship (USS) Chosin were also awarded with the Canadian Forces Unit Commendation in separate events in late May and early June for their exceptional support to HMCS Protecteur during its time of need.
The Canadian Forces Unit Commendation is a group award created to recognize distinguished service by personnel within 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 Canadian Armed Forces, or to any similar organization of a foreign armed force working with or in conjunction with the Canadian Armed Forces, that has performed a deed or activity considered beyond the demand of normal duty.

Quote

“The crew of USNS Sioux took action under extremely demanding circumstances. I commend them for their contribution to the supportive relationship between the navies of the United States and Canada.”
Jason Kenney, Minister of National Defence

“The officers and crew of USNS Sioux worked underextremely demanding circumstances, and helped to ensure the safety of HMCS Protecteur and her crew. They went above and beyond the demand of normal duty, and I am honoured to recognize them for their dedication.”
General Tom Lawson, Chief of the Defence Staff

“The Royal Canadian Navy is extremely appreciative of all the tremendous support provided by USNS Sioux, and the United State Navy. This incident is a reminder of the importance of interoperability with our allies and partners – a strong relationship that will continue into our future.”
Vice-Admiral Mark Norman, Commander Royal Canadian Navy