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November 25, 2009
GULF OF ADEN - Connecting with Canadians has taken on a new level today at 67 feet elevation as the Commanding Officer of HMCS Fredericton, Commander Steve Waddell, officially names the ship’s helicopter hangar “YFC – Fredericton International Airport”.
In preparation for her six month deployment to the Arabian Sea and Horn of Africa, the ship was approached by the Fredericton International Airport with this unique show of support. “I was very pleased by the offer of support by the Fredericton International Airport Authority”, said Commander Waddell, “It really made me think of how important Fredericton sees the relationship with their namesake ship and the responsibility we have to represent the city.”
In naming the hangar, the Fredericton International Airport donated signs to adorn the Hangar, both inside and out, the very same signs that are at the Airport in Fredericton.
The Fredericton International Airport has been a strong supporter of the Canadian Forces, seeing thousands of soldiers depart and arrive home from Afghanistan. With this naming of the hangar onboard HMCS Fredericton, they also have the opportunity to support the Navy.
“We are very proud to have YFC, our Aerodrome Location Indicator, and our logo on HMCS Fredericton. We say that YFC means ‘Your Fredericton Connection’ and it is our fondest wish that YFC conveys that same meaning to the crew of that great ship,” said David Innes, President and CEO of the Fredericton International Airport Authority.
Major Adam Carlson, Commander of HMCS Fredericton’s Air Detachment and senior pilot remarked, “Landing onboard after a mission now has greater meaning. We are reminded of the strong connection to the people of Fredericton and the support they continually show us.”
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HMCS Fredericton is deployed on a six-month mission to the Arabian Sea, Gulf of Aden and Horn of Africa to conduct counter piracy and counter terror operations alongside our NATO and Coalition partners. HMCS Fredericton’s participation in Operation Saiph (Sa-eef, meaning ‘sword’ in Arabic) represents Canada’s ongoing contribution and commitment to international peace and security and confirms that Canada’s Navy remains relevant, responsive and effective in the new security environment. |
