Royal Canadian Navy welcomes new Commander

From the left: Vice-Admiral Ron Lloyd, General Jonathan Vance, and VAdm Art McDonald sign the change of command certificates, officially marking the relinquishing of command from VAdm Lloyd to VAdm McDonald. Photo by Mona Ghitz

DND ~

Vice-Admiral Art McDonald assumed the duties of Commander of the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) from Vice-Admiral Ron Lloyd in a formal change of command ceremony on June 12, presided over by General Jonathan Vance, Chief of the Defence Staff.

During the ceremony there was also a change of appointment for Chief Petty Officer First Class David Steeves who assumed the role of Command Chief of the RCN from Chief Petty Officer First Class Michel Vigneault.

The ceremony was held at HMC Dockyard Halifax, home of Maritime Forces Atlantic.

“I have been exceptionally blessed to finish my career as the Commander of the Royal Canadian Navy,” said VAdm Lloyd. “On a daily basis for the last three years, the Command Chief and I have had the pleasure and privilege of witnessing firsthand the incredible difference Canadian sailors are making globally on behalf of Canada and Canadians. The future of the RCN is exceptionally bright, and I could not be more pleased with how the leadership is embracing the once-in-a-half-century opportunity that the largest recapitalization in our peacetime history represents. The Command Chief and I are so incredibly proud of Vice-Admiral Art McDonald, Chief Petty Officer Dave Steeves, and the entire One Navy Team and their loving families who provide them such incredible support. On behalf of the both of us, a heartfelt thank you to you all.”

VAdm McDonald assumes Command as the 36th Commander of the Royal Canadian Navy. He has served in a variety of command and staff roles throughout his career, most recently serving as Deputy Commander of the Royal Canadian Navy.

After three years as Commander of the Royal Canadian Navy, as part of his 38-year naval career, Vice-Adm Lloyd will enjoy retirement with his wife Louise.