Rideau Hall, Friday, April 17, 2015

Welcome to Rideau Hall, and congratulations on your promotion.

I continue to be amazed by your dedication. Wherever members of the Canadian Armed Forces serve, that dedication is there.

Let me give you a rather extreme example. At the beginning of the year, I visited CFS Alert in the Far North.

Some of you may have experienced the Arctic in the total darkness of January. If you haven’t, let me tell you: it was cold, it was remote, it was dark outside, and it was unforgettable.

To see the men and women in uniform perform under such challenging conditions reinforced to me how dedicated our Forces are. 

There’s a sense of camaraderie in the North that really typifies the military family. As you may know, they call themselves the “frozen chosen.”

Up North, they rely on each other constantly. And they rely on each other to do their duty to the best of their ability.

Such dedication exists throughout the Canadian Armed Forces. There’s a consistency in your service that is inspiring. All of you do your duty to the best of your ability. And, I might add, you often go beyond expectations, displaying great leadership.

Your leadership has led you to this moment. You are helping to guide our Army, Navy, Air Force and Special Forces.

With your new roles comes increased responsibility. It’s no doubt something you’re ready to assume.

With this promotion, you’re taking on the responsibility of not only the future of our Forces, but also the future leaders of our Forces. The development of both the organization and its people is now in your hands.

Congratulations again, and thank you for your service.