Navy News / September 7, 2016

Her Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Ville de Québec departed Halifax September 6, 2016 for a two-week tour of Canadian port cities along the St. Lawrence Seaway and the Great Lakes.

HMCS Ville de Québec will visit the following cities:

Montréal, Que. (September 9 to 11)

Toronto, Ont. (September 13 to 18)

Brockville, Ont. (September 18 to 20)

Québec City, Que. (September 22 to 24)

The purpose of the Great Lakes Deployment is to connect with Canadians who are not regularly exposed to the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN). Through activities such as guided ship tours and demonstrations, the deployment aims to better inform Canadians about their navy and its various roles, which include protecting Canada by exercising sovereignty in our nation’s waters; preventing conflict by deploying around the world to strengthen partnerships; and safeguarding international maritime peace and security upon which the Canadian and global economies both depend.

“The RCN understands the need to reach out to as many Canadians as possible,” said Vice-Admiral Ron Lloyd, Commander RCN. “Her Majesty’s Canadian Ships’ visits throughout the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Seaway provide a tremendous opportunity to connect with the Canadian public and demonstrate the capabilities of the RCN and the commitment and dedication of its personnel.”

HMCS Ville de Québec is a Halifax-class frigate – the backbone of the Canadian naval fleet and capable of a full range of missions around the world, from humanitarian assistance and disaster relief to deterrence and combat operations.

“Ships of the RCN ‎proudly fly the Canadian flag in sovereignty operations at home and in security operations worldwide,” said Rear-Admiral John Newton, Commander Maritime Forces Atlantic. “We are so energized with the opportunity to convey Canadian leadership in complex operations. Consequently, visiting the Great Lakes is an exciting opportunity for our sailors to connect with Canadians. Rare is the opportunity for our personnel to highlight their experience in operations, the missions of the navy, and the design and technology of the fleet that enables success.”

HMCS Ville de Québec previously deployed to the Great Lakes region in August of 2012 to mark the 200th anniversary of the War of 1812.