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Strike Group Commander Joins Canadian Navy for Remembrance Day

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS091112-14
Release Date: 11/12/2009 4:15:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Elliott Fabrizio, USS John C. Stennis Public Affairs

USS JOHN C. STENNIS, At sea (NNS) -- Commander, Carrier Strike Group 3 visited Canadian Sailors aboard HMCS Algonquin (DDG 283) to join them for their Remembrance Day service Nov. 10.

The strike group is participating in a sustainment exercise (SUSTEX 09) with Algonquin, HMCS Calgary (FFH 335) and HMCS Protectuer (AOR 509) to maintain battle proficiencies and promote combined interoperability.

"We have a terrific alliance with the country of Canada," said Rear Adm. Joseph Aucoin. "This visit honors the sacrifices we've made together and the close partnership we maintain today. Together we are a driving force of goodwill in this world."

Canada's Remembrance Day marks the end of World War I and the point when Canada became its own nation instead of a British colony. Aucion and the Sailors aboard Algonquin honored the sacrifices of their shipmates with a moment of silent reflection, prayers and by laying three wreaths to sea.

Since the first Remembrance Day in 1918, the United States and Canada have fought together in conflicts from World War II to Operation Iraqi Freedom.

"We're two nations that form a continent, and we have parallels throughout our military history and traditions," said Canadian Navy Cmdr. Hugh Fitzpatrick, commander Sea Training Pacific. "We're not just cousins geographically, but we're brothers in arms."

"Any threat for the United States is a threat for Canada, so we deploy together to keep both our nations safe," said Algonquin Commanding Officer Cmdr. Angus Topshee.

"Remembrance Day reminds us that we are part of a legacy bigger than ourselves," said Aucoin. "I firmly believe that this generation will look back with pride at the sacrifices we are making today."

Operating and interacting with allied nations is part of America's maritime strategy to maintain an interoperable, combined naval force capable of protecting America and its allies and safeguarding its international interests.

For more news from USS John C. Stennis, visit www.navy.mil/local/cvn74/.