On the 9th of July, the RCAF had its’ Change of Command parade where the outgoing Commander of the RCAF, LGen Yvan Blondin, turned over command to LGen Mike Hood, under the auspices of the Chief of the Defence Staff, Gen Tom Lawson. The setting was appropriate as the event was held at the Canada Aviation and Space Museum which is across from the Rockcliffe Flying club. Rockcliffe used to be an RCAF flying base and the sound of aircraft taking off during the ceremony seemed appropriate.
LGen Blondin addressed the crowd without formal notes and his speech was heartfelt and poignant. He made so many good points that I can’t list them but would suggest you listen to his speech (audio below)
Other parts of the ceremony went off well with the exchanging of the RCAF Colours and the changing of the Pipe Banner.. Remarks from the Chief of Defence Staff were bouyant in keeping with the occasion and the remarks from the incoming Commander, LGen Mike Hood, were also friendly, but with some points that touched on recent issues in the Armed Forces.
Of particular note was the attendance of the Honorary Colonel of the RCAF, HCol. Loreena McKennitt, who most people will recognize as one of Canada’s premiere singers. Also in attendance were more General Officers than I have ever seen in one location.
To see all the pictures CLICK HERE
