Mr. Speaker, this summer, as part of the Royal Canadian Navy's Canadian leaders at sea program, I had an opportunity to participate in naval exercises that showed us what it takes to be a sailor.
Operation NANOOK was an eye-opening experience, as we saw first-hand the sacrifices that our men and women in the navy have made to protect our country. They work for us 24 hours a day.
Thanks to our Minister of National Defence, who reinstated this program, Canadians have the opportunity to experience first-hand what our Canadian Armed Forces do for us. While aboard the HMCS Charlottetown, I realized just how much the sailors sacrifice. They are away from their families for months at a time. They go beyond the call of duty. They risk their lives. Their motto, “all challenges squarely met”, is a testament to their bravery and courage in never backing down in the face of danger.
True to their slogan, “Ready, Aye Ready”, these sailors stand always ready to defend Canada. We thank them for their service.