Change of command ceremonies sees new Command Team for Royal Canadian Navy

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

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

“I have been exceptionally blessed to finish my career as the Commander of the Royal Canadian Navy. 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 that 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,” said Vice-Admiral Ron Lloyd, Outgoing Commander of the Royal Canadian Navy during the ceremony in a press release. 

There was also a change of appointment which saw Chief Petty Officer First Class David Steeves assume the role of Command Chief of the Royal Canadian Navy from Chief Petty Officer First Class Michel Vigneault.

Vice-Admiral McDonald has served in a variety of command and staff roles throughout his career, most recently serving as Deputy Commander of the Royal Canadian Navy.

“I am humbled and honoured to assume the watch as Commander Royal Canadian Navy and to be charged with caring for and enabling the amazing Canadian sailors, my shipmates – and the families that support them. Together we will ensure the great people-delivered successes for which the RCN is known can continue to be realized. Inspired equally by a rich history and the bright future that the ongoing fleet recapitalization – the largest in our peacetime history – ensures, today’s sailors are equal parts, warriors and diplomats.  Vice-Admiral Art McDonald

“They work successfully alongside allies and partners at home and around the globe to combat crises – man-made or naturally occurring. They are ready to help, lead, and fight. I’m excited to have the opportunity to continue supporting and enabling them and their successes by building on the enormous momentum created by my predecessor. I congratulate Vice-Admiral Ron Lloyd, and our outgoing Command Chief Petty Officer, Chief Petty Officer First Class Michel Vigneault, for their exceptional service and leadership. We all salute you as you retire,” stated Vice-Admiral Art McDonald, Incoming Commander of the Royal Canadian Navy in a press release. 

The ceremony was held at Her Majesty’s Canadian Dockyard, Halifax, home of Maritime Forces Atlantic.