Media Advisory: Governor General Presents the Newly Consecrated Queen's Colour to Maritime Command in Halifax

Her Excellency the Right Honourable Michaelle Jean, Governor General and Commander-in-Chief of Canada, will present the newly consecrated Queen's Colour to Maritime Command. The event will take place at 10 a.m., on Saturday, June 27, 2009, at the Garrison Grounds, in Halifax.

During this grand ceremony, the Governor General will preside over the parade of 500 sailors and officers from across the country. In her address, Her Excellency will salute the achievements of the Canadian Navy over the years and acknowledge 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.

About the consecration and presentation of the Queen's Colour

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. The current Queen's Colour has been in use for 30 years and will be retired and replaced on June 27, 2009.

Contacts: Rideau Hall Press Office Marie-Eve Letourneau 613-998-0287 613-302-0912 (blackberry) meletourneau@gg.ca National Defence Joint Task Force Atlantic Public Affairs Major Paul Doucette 902-427-6981 902-403-2586 (cell.) paul.doucette3@forces.gc.ca