Mishall RehmanNotable retirements continue to force fundamental changes in Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) leadership.
Most recently, the Canadian military welcomed a new vice chief of the defence staff (VCDS). In a change of command ceremony on Friday, August 1, 2024, Lieutenant-General Stephen Kelsey assumed responsibilities as VCDS. The ceremony was presided over by General Jennie Carignan, the newly minted Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS).
“As our new Vice Chief of the Defence Staff, Lieutenant-General Kelsey brings a remarkable track record of expertise and unwavering leadership to the forefront, making him the perfect choice for the role of second-in-command of the Canadian Armed Forces. Thank you to Lieutenant-General Allen for her incredible contribution to the Canadian Armed Forces. Her dedication and commitment embody the very essence of service to Canada. We are deeply grateful for her continued contributions and steadfast leadership,” said Gen. Carignan.
More than Three Decades of Service
LGen. Kelsey steps into his new role with more than three decades of military service under his belt. Over the course of his career, he has had several notable deployments, including to Croatia, Montenegro, and Afghanistan.
In leadership roles, the new VCDS has served as Army Chief of Staff Strategy and Canadian Armed Forces Chief of Force Development. Most recently, he served as NATO’s Deputy Commander Allied Joint Force Command Naples from 2022 to 2024.
“I am sincerely humbled by the opportunity to serve the Canadian Armed Forces, Department of National Defence and Canada as Vice Chief of the Defence Staff. As I accept the responsibilities of this appointment, I look forward to the collaborative opportunities it presents and will continue to serve with integrity, accountability and courage as I carry on the legacy left by LGen Allen during her 3-year tenure,” said LGen. Kelsey.
In his new role, he will be responsible for ensuring that Department of National Defence (DND) policy and objectives are achieved. He will be second in command to the CDS and will govern the National Defence headquarters and HQ activities.
Bidding Farewell to a 40-Year Career
LGen. Kelsey takes over his new role from LGen. Frances Allen, who served as the VCDS for the last three years.
LGen. Allen served for more than forty years in the CAF and has served as an example to other women following in her footsteps. Over the years, she served as Director General Cyber Force Development and the Canadian Military Representative at NATO in Brussels.
She broke barriers when she was appointed as the first female VCDS in 2021 and is known for her role in implementing Reconstitution and NORAD Modernization plans.
“Over the last 3 years, as the VCDS, I have seen our institution do what it does best – assess the situation, engage with others to consider options to create the needed change, and start on a path forward. I want to thank everyone for their commitment and support and am honoured to have served with you,” said LGen. Allen.
