Halifax, Friday, May 26, 2006

Let me refer to your Dolphin Code to tell you right from the start: Dolphin Code 36 (Submariners are super).

Thank you for introducing me to the fascinating world of submariners.

I remember reading Jules Verne’s novels as a child and dreaming, like so many others, of one day travelling 20 000 leagues under the sea. The submarines that explore the deepest depths still capture the imaginations of young and old. I must confess that in touring your submarine, I have lived out a childhood dream.

I may have romanticized the work that you do, but to an outsider, yours is a fascinating life.

The challenges inherent in operating the boats that you call home for months at a time are difficult to imagine for the uninitiated.

But as an islander, born in a small country surrounded on three sides by water, I understand the promise and the power of the sea. And I have enormous respect for those of you whose work requires you to sustain your relationship with it, no matter how treacherous its waters become.

The work that you do to protect our territorial integrity, monitor our coastlines and highlight our aquatic heritage is remarkable, and I would like all Canadians to know more about what you do. I want to congratulate you and to tell you that your hard work is an inspiration to us all.

Two years ago when fire crippled the Chicoutimi off the coast of Ireland and the fates of so many submariners hung in the balance, I shared the horror of Canadians across the country unable to do other than hope and pray for their safety.

We all grieved when Lieutenant Chris Saunders succumbed to the effects of smoke inhalation, but for you, I know the loss was much more personal.

Your dedication to protecting and promoting the values so many of us take for granted requires you to sacrifice time away from those you love; to put yourselves in harm’s way on our behalf; and to take risks that too often pass unappreciated by those at home.

We owe a great debt of gratitude to both you and your families, who experience your absence and isolation most profoundly.

It is with enormous pride that I serve as your commander-in-chief. When I wear the Order of Military Merit on your behalf, it is to remind Canadians of the exceptional service you perform for all of us.

From the bottom of my heart, I thank you.  And, last but not least, Dolphin Code 64 Alpha (Many thanks for your kind hospitality).