June 10, 2015, Ottawa - Department of National Defence
OTTAWA – Brigadier-General Hugh Colin MacKay assumed the duties of Surgeon General for the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) from Major-General Jean-Robert Bernier today. The change of command ceremony at Canadian Forces Health Group Headquarters was presided over by General Tom Lawson, Chief of the Defence Staff, in the presence of senior Canadian Armed Forces leaders and notable national health officials.
“Through his leadership, initiative, and dedication to the ill and injured, Major-General Bernier has helped save lives, maximize the health of the force, and achieve success in operations. He can be proud of his accomplishments as our Surgeon General, and we will look forward to his continued service in his new role as Chair of the Committee of the Chiefs of Military Medical Services in NATO.
“I have the highest confidence in the leadership and expertise of his successor, Brigadier-General MacKay, who I am certain, will maintain the highest standard of professionalism and dedication to the health of our Canadian Armed Forces members.”
General Tom Lawson,
Chief of the Defence Staff
"I've had no greater responsibility and honour than to lead our superb health professionals in helping protect the health and lives of military personnel and distressed civilian populations around the world. In Brigadier-General MacKay, they and all Canadians will be very well served by an outstanding medical officer and strategic leader."
Major-General Jean-Robert Bernier,
Outgoing Surgeon General
“With this appointment, I have been entrusted with the command of an internationally recognized health formation, made up of the finest health professionals. I would like to sincerely thank Major-General Bernier for the outstanding leadership he has provided. Under his leadership, the Canadian Forces Health Services has continued to provide the highest quality in health care and delivered operational excellence. I hope to continue this in my appointment as Surgeon General.”
Brigadier-General Hugh Colin MacKay,
Surgeon General
Media Relations
Department of National Defence
Phone: (613) 996-2353
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