HMCS Winnipeg brings family on board

Family and friends enjoy manoeuvres on board HMCS Winnipeg during the family day sail.

SLt Wilson Ho, HMCS Winnipeg ~

With the sun shining and clear skies, HMCS Winnipeg welcomed over 121 friends and family to come aboard June 29 for a first-hand experience of what their loved ones do day-to-day at sea. The family and friends’ day sail was in conjunction with Winnipeg’s port visit in North Vancouver as part of the Canada Day celebrations. The day’s events were highlighted by a manoeuvring demonstration in Constance Bank, tours of the ship, and displays and demonstrations from the ship’s boarding party, dive, and firefighting teams.

Crew and guests took full advantage of the beautiful weather with a flight deck barbecue before making final preparations to enter Vancouver Harbour. At the end of the sail Commander Mike Stefanson, Commanding Officer, had a few words for the departing guests.

“Thank you for coming out and sailing with us today, and letting the sailors show you our home. I would also like to thank you for showing your commitment and continued support to the ship and the crew.”

Canada Day

In celebration of Canada Day HMCS Winnipeg was open to tours in North Vancouver. Five thousand visitors were shown the upper decks and bridge of the ship. Additionally, members of Winnipeg supported the Canadian Forces Exhibit at Canada Place in Vancouver. Thousands of guests lined up for an interactive tour of the various capabilities of the Army, Navy, and Air Force, including demonstrations by the Winnipeg Naval Boarding Team.

In the evening, Winnipeg held a Canada Day reception hosted by the ship’s Commanding Officer, Commander Mike Stefanson. Guests included the Minister of National Defence, Harjit Sajjan; Commander Canadian Fleet Pacific, Cmdre Angus Topshee; Honorary Captains (Navy) Anita Huberman, Queenie Choo, and Tung Chan; and local leaders. Military members from units around Vancouver including the B.C. Regiment, Seaforth Highlanders, 15 Field Regiment, 7 Sea Cadet Corps, 13 Army Cadet Corps, and the 22 Air Cadet Squadron were also in attendance.

The reception was capped off with the Vancouver Harbour fireworks show.