Visit to the Citadelle of Quebec - Day 1

His Excellency delivered a speech and awarded the Commander-in-Chief Unit Commendation scroll to the 3rd Battalion, Royal 22e Régiment Battle Group. From July 2007 to February 2008, the 3rd Battalion, Royal 22e Régiment Battle Group, displayed outstanding courage and resolve while battling insurgents in Afghanistan. Arriving at a difficult time for coalition forces, the members of the battle group worked aggressively to regain the initiative from the enemy.

In the afternoon, the Governor General visited the Canadian Forces Base in Valcartier where he awarded the Commander-in-Chief Unit Commendation to the 3rd Battalion, Royal 22e Régiment Battle Group.

As part the ceremony, the Governor General also awarded the pennant. The 3rd Battalion, Royal 22e Régiment Battle Group were instrumental in dismantling improvised explosive device networks, re-capturing checkpoints and returning them to Afghan control, enhancing the capacity of Afghan forces and providing guidance on community building and local governance. Their unrelenting efforts expanded the coalition’s security presence and brought hope to the Afghan people.

The Commander-in-Chief Unit Commendation was created on July 3, 2002, to recognize exceptional service by Canadian Forces units under extremely hazardous circumstances in a theatre of operations.

The Governor General received the viceregal salute.

The governor general is commander-in-chief of Canada. This role has been expressly conferred on the governor general as per the letters patent of 1947. As such, the governor general plays a major role in recognizing the importance of Canada’s military at home and abroad.

Upon his arrival in the City of Québec, His Excellency the Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor General of Canada, met with the Mayor His Worship Régis Labeaume.

In front of media, the Governor General signed the guest books.

The meeting between His Excellency and His Worship took place in the mayor's office at City Hall.