Governor General presents the newly consecrated Queen’s Colour to Maritime Command in Halifax

Her Excellency the Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean, Governor General and Commander-in-Chief of Canada, presented the newly consecrated Queen’s Colour to Maritime Command. The event was held at the Garrison Grounds, in Halifax, on June 27, 2009.

For this grand event, the Governor General conducted the inspection of the guard.

During the ceremony, the Governor General presided over a parade of 500 sailors and officers from across the country. In her address, Her Excellency recognized the achievements of the Canadian Navy over the years and acknowledged its upcoming centennial in 2010.

The Consecration and the Presentation of the Queen’s Colour is one of many events leading up to the commemoration the 100th anniversary of the Canadian Navy.

The traditions of this ceremony go back to the Elizabethan era and have been a vital part of the Navy since its beginning in 1910. The Queen’s Colour is a symbol of duty to Sovereign and Country, respect to military service, and represents heroism and honour. The ceremony celebrates the accomplishments of all naval personnel and remembers their sacrifices.

Thousands of people attended this important ceremony on the Garrison Grounds, in Halifax.