Good afternoon, colleagues.
As you see by the orders of the day we are gathered today for a briefing on Canada's current naval situation renewal and modernization.
We have two witnesses before us this afternoon from the Department of National Defence: Vice-Admiral Mark Norman, commander, Royal Canadian Navy; and Chief Petty Officer Tom Riefesel, command chief petty officer, Royal Canadian Navy.
Thank you, gentlemen, for joining us here today.
Admiral, may we have your opening remarks, please.