Archana Cini, Lookout Newspaper.

  • CFB Esquimalt officially welcomed Capt(N) Douglas Layton as Base Commander during a Change of Command ceremony on July 21.
  • Capt(N) Kevin Whiteside reflected on three years of leadership, highlighting the strength of the Defence community and its people.
  • RAdm David Patchell praised both leaders as CFB Esquimalt prepares for continued growth, modernization, and future operations.

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Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Esquimalt welcomed a new Base Commander during a Change of Command ceremony held on July 21 at the CFB Esquimalt Naval and Military Museum Square.

Presided over by Rear-Admiral (RAdm) David Patchell, Commander, Maritime Forces Pacific (MARPAC) and Joint Task Force (Pacific) (JTF(P)), the ceremony marked the transfer of command from Captain(N) (Capt(N)) Kevin Whiteside to Capt(N) Douglas Layton. The event united military and civilian members of the Defence Team, veterans, local leaders, and community partners to both recognize Capt(N) Whiteside’s leadership over the past three years and welcome Capt(N) Layton to the role.

In his farewell address, Capt(N) Whiteside looked back on three years as Base Commander, describing the role as “the professional honour of a lifetime.” While he highlighted accomplishments ranging from new infrastructure and housing initiatives to strengthened Indigenous partnerships and environmental stewardship, he repeatedly returned to what he believed mattered most: people.

Outgoing Base Commander Capt(N) Kevin Whiteside converses with a guest during the July 21 Change of Command ceremony. Photo: MCpl William Gosse, MARPAC Imaging

“As I look around this parade square today, one word comes to mind,” said Capt(N) Whiteside. “Community.” He also offered words of encouragement to his successor.

“Doug, I cannot think of a better person to be taking the lead of Canada’s finest base,” he said. “This team and this community will rally with you every step of the way.”

Presiding over the ceremony, RAdm David Patchell praised Capt(N) Whiteside’s command.

“When I boil down your leadership into one thought, it is that you care,” he said. “You care about our readiness, our community, our families, our people, our Navy, and you care deeply about our nation.”

Incoming Base Commander Capt(N) Doug Layton addresses guests during the July 21 Change of Command ceremony. Photo: MCpl William Gosse, MARPAC Imaging

He also welcomed Capt(N) Layton into the role, noting that he assumes command at a pivotal time as the base prepares for continued growth and modernization. Accepting command, Capt(N) Layton said he was humbled by the opportunity to lead CFB Esquimalt and acknowledged the strong foundation established by his predecessor.

“As I assume this responsibility, I do so with humility, and a deep appreciation of the trust that has been placed in me,” he said.

“I have the watch,” he concluded, marking the official transfer of command as his pennant was raised for the first time as CFB Esquimalt’s Base Commander.