Hundreds of people gathered on a jetty at Halifax’s naval base on Wednesday to bid farewell to 240 military members aboard HMCS Ville de Quebec.
Under pouring rain, family, friends and dignitaries waved goodbye as the warship departed in thick fog for the Mediterranean Sea, part of Canada’s ongoing contribution to a NATO mission in central and eastern Europe.
READ MORE: Military shows off new Cyclone helicopter days before first international deployment
On board was a CH-148 Cyclone helicopter, marking the first international deployment of the Canadian military’s new state-of-the-art, twin-engine machine.
Defence Minister Harjit Sajjan called the departure of the frigate and Maritime helicopter “a significant milestone for the Royal Canadian Navy and Royal Canadian Air Force.”
Defence Minister @HarjitSajjan is here for the deployment which is also the the first operational deployment for the CH-148 Cyclone helicopter. pic.twitter.com/h8n71NwXmi
— Alicia Draus (@Alicia_Draus) July 18, 2018
Cmdr. Scott Robinson says the ship’s company has worked hard preparing for the mission and is ready to meet the challenges of Operation Reassurance.
- Kraft Hockeyville-winning town of Taber reopens ice rink after 2025 explosion
- Possible WestJet strike has Kelowna travellers worried about their plans
- Possible WestJet strike leaves dog competitor out thousands in rebooking fees
- Saskatchewan First Nation worried about community safety after vet clinic cancelled
Get daily National news
He says saying goodbye to loved ones at HMC Dockyard Halifax is a challenge, but that the crew is excited to help strengthen international and regional stability in the region.
WATCH: Military shows off new Cyclone helicopter days before first international deployment
-_TOR1CRGM_1_tnb_3.jpg?w=1040&quality=70&strip=all)
Comments
Want to discuss? Please read our Commenting Policy first.