Halifax unveils new harbour ferry dedicated to fallen soldier

HALIFAX – The newest ferry in Metro Transit’s Halifax-to-Dartmouth fleet was unveiled Wednesday morning as the family of its namesake watched on with pride.

The vessel bears the name Christopher Stannix, a the 24-year-old Princess Louise’s Fusiliers soldier who was killed by a roadside bomb in Afghanistan in 2007.

“From the bottom of our hearts, thank you,” Stannix’s father Ken told the crowd outside the Halifax Ferry Terminal.

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Stannix’s mother Kate said the ferry was a fitting tribute and hoped its name would honour the legacy of her son and others.

“I think it’s important for people to remember the sacrifice that the soldiers have made and their commitment,” she said.

Tweet This Click to share quote on Twitter: "I think it's important for people to remember the sacrifice that the soldiers have made and their commitment," she said.

“I think that sacrifice is what Chris would want to be remembered for.”

Darrel MacDonald, who also served in the Princess Louise’s Fusiliers, nominated Stannix when the city held a contest to name the new ferry.

The Stannix name received 61 per cent of the votes.

The introduction of the Christopher Stannix marks the first time since the 1980s Halifax has launched a new ferry.

The vessel is scheduled to begin service between the Halifax and Woodside terminals on May 20.