Holiday wishes from HMCS Brandon
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Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 27/12/2010 (5576 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.
Being in command of a warship is a very fast-paced, challenging and rewarding experience.
The ship’s manning, engineering, logistics and weather for specific missions all require a perfect balance to maximize the operational and tactical responses expected of a warship in the Canadian navy. My appointment to command, on May 20, 2010 was the pinnacle of 20 years of naval service and a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Having this opportunity during our nation’s naval centennial year has made it even more significant.
The first couple of days in command are always memorable for a new captain and as such I will always remember them. My first day was a time to recognize the outstanding service of the ship’s previous commanding officer, Lt.-Cmdr. Timothy Doherty.
On my second day, Brandon proceeded to sea and sailed for Nanaimo, B.C., to support HMCS Nanaimo during her namesake city visit.
During this visit, the city of Nanaimo celebrated Empire Days, which was first celebrated in 1837 and is the oldest ceremony and parade in recognition of Queen Victoria’s birthday. The Canadian navy has participated in this May long weekend since the birth Canada’s navy in 1910.
The following month, HMCS Brandon focused on conducting a full underwater survey of the Esquimalt harbour approaches using side-scan sonar technology.
In mid-June, HMCS Brandon participated in the IFR in celebration of the centennial of the Canadian navy. During this spectacular event, HMCS Brandon was the first of 21 warships from six countries to be reviewed by Michaëlle Jean, who was the Governor General of Canada at that time.
On completion of the IFR, HMCS Brandon supported the RCMP in escorting the world’s largest and most modern United States navy aircraft carrier, USS Ronald Reagan, from her anchorage in the Esquimalt harbour approaches to the border between Canada and the United States
In July, HMCS Brandon commenced a six-week MARS IV program in company with our sister ships — HMCS Edmonton and HMCS Whitehorse. A MARS IV program is the final sea phase for junior officers of an intense six-month training program preparing them to be officer of the watches onboard Canadian warships.
By the middle of August, the ship earned a well-deserved rest and took a two-week leave period with friends and families. At the end of the month, we sailed through the beautiful northern waters of British Columbia to support the Canadian Coast Guard as the primary rescue asset in the northern zone.
In early October, I had the honour of receiving the ship’s sponsor, Betty Coleman from Brandon, guests from CFB Shilo and the Friends of Brandon. Sailing with these guests was an excellent opportunity for Betty and guests to reunite with the sailors and myself.
The ship later sailed for Exercise Pacific Guardian, a multi-ship exercise conducting operations day and night, which employed the full capabilities of each ship. Early in the exercise, Brandon was fortunate to receive an Executrek group of 25 members from the business communities from Ontario to British Columbia.
This program demonstrates to other members of the larger Canadian society how reserve military training can directly benefit their businesses at home.
During this visit, the Executrek participants witnessed the meaningful naval tradition of committing ashes to the sea. This service is reserved for the burial of retired and current serving members of the Canadian Forces.
During the early afternoon of Oct. 22, the ashes of Able Seaman Papas, who served on the first HMCS Brandon (K149) in 1945, were committed to the deep.
The overall pace of operations over the last six months has been demanding on the personal lives of my sailors.
Now is the time of year where I reflect on the accomplishments of the ship and her company.
I would also like to send best holiday wishes to the city and surrounding areas of Brandon.
Lt.-Cmdr. FRANCOIS
LaPLANTE
Commanding Officer
HMCS Brandon