May wrap-up of Pacific Fleet events

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The Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) recently held its traditional Battle of the Atlantic (BOA) and Fleet Weekend in North Vancouver. A gathering of ships, sailors and other members of Canada’s Navy welcomed thousands of people on the Burrard Dry Dock Pier from May 3rd to May 5th. 

This year, Her Royal Highness, Princess Anne spoke at the commissioning of HMCS Max Bernays. The Princess Royal presented the Commissioning Pennant to Commander Collin Forsberg, Commanding Officer of the Arctic and Offshore Patrol Vessel.

Furthermore, on the same day, Vice-Admiral Angus Topshee, Commander of the RCN, joined players on the virtual platform Twitch where he took virtual command of numerous vintage naval ships. He got to showcase his great military experience and expertise conquering the seas in the World of Warships video game. 

Scheduled tours on RCN Halifax-class Patrol Frigates, Kingston-class Maritime Coastal Defence Vessels, and the Orca-class Training Vessels invited guests to see what life on a ship looks like.

Those who were up for something more adventurous were invited to take a ride on a Rigid Hull Inflatable Boat that sailors use for patrol duties. They also tried the Force Test composed of four aspects measuring physical endurance and cardiorespiratory performance – a challenge that tests individual mettle.

In addition, the Canadian Armed Forces and the RCN had naval firefighting equipment to try on and a ruptured pipeline people could fix with a repair tool. Guests could participate in a simulation of a real-life naval damage control situation.

On Sunday, in a commemorative tribute, service members of the RCN, Naval Veterans, members of the Royal Canadian Sea Cadets, and the Navy League honoured the Canadian sailors and aviators who served, as well as the RCN and Merchant Marine ships that were lost at sea, during the longest continuous battle of the Second World War.

The memories of the heroes who fought in the BOA will forever be immortalized in Canadian Naval Military History. Their loyalty and bravery are an inspiration to many, and the reminiscence of their devotion to their duty will live in the hearts of those who served, are serving and will serve Canada.