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A Canadian Forces investigation determined that the military flight crew felt they had no choice but to endure the boorish behaviour as the individuals were Vance’s guests.

In a written response to the military investigators, Vance accepted responsibility the trip “lost focus” of the rules and procedures but he disputed the findings the aircrew felt pressured by commanders to let the VIPs do whatever they wanted. He argued the air crew should have stopped the out-of-control VIPs even though a lieutenant general and a chief warrant officer were on board.

After more than four years at the helm of such a stressful job, some people might want to opt for retirement.

Not Gen. Vance.

In a recent interview Vance was asked by the CBC’s Vassy Kapelos if he would continue as Chief of the Defence Staff if asked by government to stay on.

“I will,” he relied. “I still have a few things to get into the end zone.”

Vance said he wants to “flesh out the growth” that the military is to see in the future and he believes there is more work to be done on Operation Honour. “So yes, I will serve at the pleasure of government,” he added. “That’s what I do. Until I can’t.”

Vance is seen in some military circles as being very loyal to the Liberal government.

But the general was appointed under the previous Conservative government. It is unclear whether a Conservative government, if put into power in the upcoming federal election, would invite him to continue serving as CDS.

Then there is the possibility that a new government, no matter what the political party, might want to have a fresh start with new Chief of the Defence Staff.

(Analysis)

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