August 27, 2012

Message from the Governor General and Commander-in-Chief of Canada on the Occasion of the Appointment of the New Chief of Defence Staff 

OTTAWA—As commander-in-chief of Canada, I would like to congratulate Lieutenant-General Thomas J. Lawson for his appointment as the Chief of Defence Staff of the Canadian Forces.

Lieutenant-General Lawson has had a long and decorated career with the Forces and continues to bring great honour to Canada in his current role as deputy commander of the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD). I have no doubt that he will inspire our troops at home and overseas. I look forward to working with him in the coming years.

I would also like to take this opportunity to show my deep appreciation to General Walt Natynczyk for his exemplary dedication, professionalism and leadership as the chief of Defence Staff since 2008. Whenever we had the chance to meet with soldiers and to honour their achievements, I could see the respect and admiration General Natynczyk had for our men and women in uniform, for what they do for our country each and every day.

My wife, Sharon, and I send him and his wife, Leslie, our very best wishes for the future. I know they will continue to support our soldiers and their families.

On behalf of all Canadians, I would like to thank both General Natynczyk and Lieutenant-General Lawson for their service to Canada.

David Johnston

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Media information:

Julie Rocheleau
Rideau Hall Press Office
613-990-7280
julie.rocheleau@gg.ca

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