HMCS Calgary Day Sail

Photos courtesy HMCS Calgary

SLt Juliana Currie, HMCS Calgary ~

HMCS Calgary is conducting a challenging program on the road to high readiness and an international deployment. 

A key activity for Calgary occurred March 28 when the crew welcomed family and friends on board for a day sail. In total, 150 guests experienced firsthand what their loved ones do day-to-day while at sea conducting degaussing trials.

The day started with guests trying their hand at firefighting and damage control, as well as interacting with displays from the boarding party and ship’s team divers. Guests were also given a tour of the ship including: the operations room, bridge, and machinery control room, where they were shown basic navigation, and the fighting organization of an HMC Ship at sea.

After a break for lunch, guests were treated to a visit from 443 Maritime Helicopter Squadron. The helicopter had one of Calgary’s ship’s team divers on board, OS Mitchel Kathol from the deck department, who displayed his courage by jumping from the helicopter 10 feet above the water. The demonstration was exciting to all guests onboard, and many eagerly waved at the helicopter roaring by.

“We wouldn’t be able to do what we do if it wasn’t for the support provided by our sailor’s families and friends,” said Commander Blair Saltel, Calgary’s Commanding Officer. “Having opportunities like this to display what we do when we go to sea is incredibly important, as it reinforces the bond between a sailor and their family.”

The day sail allowed Calgary crew to recognize the continued support from family and friends, especially as the ship ramps up for Operation Projection this summer.