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To the past I look to learn. At present it is the work that invigorates. To the future I look with hope. The future trials, tribulations and successes will be a direct outcome from the decisions of the present and getting it right is vitally important.

To my friends in the media: Thank you for telling the story. Your interest in this organization has, and continues to be, an important part of describing who and what the Department of National Defence and the Canadian Armed Forces are about.

To our elected and appointed officials: Thank you to those who try on a daily basis and rest assured that what you do, or don’t, is noticed.

To my team: It’s been a ride! How you continue to do this work with dedication and humility amazes me on a daily basis. Though the load continues to grow you manage to get it done. Amazing group of dedicated individuals who are second-to-none in what you do and none of it would be possible without you.

To the families: Few know the sacrifices that you make for yourself and your families on a daily basis and the opportunities you miss because of the lifestyle you follow. You have been called the “strength behind the uniform” and I’m not sure this really describes the impact you have on national security and continuity of operations. More than any group, you have moved me most. From the families of the fallen to playing tic-tac-toe with the children to comforting a distraught family member, I have learned the most.