Regina returns: Admiral’s message

The Sikorsky SH-60 Seahawk helicopter from Frigate Cristóbal Colón F105 takes off from the flight deck of HMCS REGINA during a replenishment at sea with FS MARNE A630 on July 3 in the Mediterranean Sea during Operation Reassurance.

The Sikorsky SH-60 Seahawk helicopter from Frigate Cristóbal Colón F105 takes off from the flight deck of HMCS Regina during a replenishment at sea with FS Marne A630 on July 3 in the Mediterranean Sea during Operation Reassurance.

After a highly successful eight-month deployment, HMCS Regina will arrive at CFB Esquimalt on the morning of Wednesday, Sept. 17.

I wish to sincerely congratulate the entire crew aboard Regina for your outstanding work. I commend you for your flexibility and determination that made your contribution invaluable to Canada, the international community, and the people who rely on safe seas every day. Your involvement with NATO and the numerous port visits you conducted cemented relations with our international allies and sent a clear message that Canada is a capable force across the world.

Regina represented the Royal Canadian Navy with operational excellence and professionalism as part of Operation Artemis in the Arabian Sea and as part of Operation Reassurance in the Mediterranean. Your participation in both of these operations contributed to international peace and security far from home.

Among your outstanding achievements of the 254 days deployed, you spent 212 of those days at sea, and travelled a total of 61,300 nautical miles. The CH-124 Sea King helicopter flew a total of 171 sorties with a total of 388 hours of flying time.

On March 31, you intercepted and boarded a dhow off the east coast of Africa and discovered 132 packages of heroin weighing approximately 132 kilograms in total. This act undoubtedly diverted profits from terrorist organizations and prevented harmful drugs from reaching Canadian streets. A job well done to all of those involved.

I would also like to thank the entire staff across all MARPAC units for your dedicated and tireless efforts, which allowed HMCS Regina to deploy. The level of professionalism and support you have provided these past eight and a half months has been outstanding. Your skills, knowledge, and hard work keep our ships safe and operational whether at home or abroad. I thank you for your dedication and support of our west coast fleet, and for keeping HMCS Regina capable and mission-ready.

To the families, I know how challenging it can be to manage life at home while loved ones are away. Your resiliency and support are so very important, and we thank you for your service and dedication. I would also like to thank the Military Family Resource Centre, Personnel Support Programs, and Formation Clergy for assisting families when needed.  Together, you are the support system that allows our members to adhere to excellence while at sea.

Bravo Zulu for accomplishing your mission and welcome home.

Yours Aye,
RAdm Bill and Brenda Truelove
Commander, Maritime Forces Pacific

Shawn O’Hara, Staff Writer

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