Capt(N) Robinson ready aye ready to lead

Capt(N) Scott Robinson addresses those in attendance.

SLt Joshua Ehnisz
Public Affairs Officer, MARPAC
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Captain (Navy) Scott Robinson assumed command of the Royal Canadian Navy’s Pacific surface fleet on May 8 as Rear-Admiral Angus Topshee was relieved.

The change of command ceremony took place on D-Jetty and was limited to a small procession of guests in accordance with public health orders.

Vice-Admiral Bob Auchterlonie presided over the ceremony.

“It is a special moment for these two officers. A change of command ceremony is a time honoured event that is used to recognize the lawful exchange of command,” he said. “These are challenging and difficult times for the Canadian Armed Forces. In the midst of dynamic social change, leaders need to lead, listen, empathize and act. Our challenges are great but you two are the right people to do this.”

Rear-Admiral Topshee noted that during his time in command, his focus was readiness, risk, and resilience, and that fleet members had demonstrated skill, determination, and leadership.

The Pacific fleet, he said, has persevered deploying almost all its ships, and supporting operations globally throughout his tenure as commander. Only HMCS Vancouver, which returned from deployment weeks before he assumed command, did not deploy while he was in charge.

He welcomed Capt(N) Robinson into the post saying that being commander of the fleet is like being the manager for a Formula 1 team, not the driver.

“There are times when events transpiring on the track are out of your hands and that you will need to be reactive to the challenges present themselves.”

Capt(N)Robinson, who is an avid Formula 1 fan, appreciated the reference and commenced his speech by mentioning he is only in the position of commander of the fleet as an interim placeholder, “until further notice.”

But, he looks forward to the challenges that await and reaffirmed he will keep the fleet ready to help, ready to lead, and ready to fight as he took the watch.

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