The Citadelle, Thursday, September 13, 2007

As you know, the role of Commander-in-Chief of Canada has been closely linked to the evolution of Canada, as well as to the history of the Canadian Forces.

The Governor General and Commander-in-Chief of Canada is responsible for encouraging excellence and dedication in the Forces, visiting military bases across Canada, participating in memorial services for fallen military, and welcoming troops home, as well as keeping up morale among those performing peacekeeping missions around the world, supporting military families, and ensuring that they have access to services.

These responsibilities are ones that I take very seriously and I look to you, our new General and Flag Officers, for your support in fulfilling them. Together, with the members of the Armed Forces Council, with whom I met this morning, we must offer our men and women in uniform and their families strong leadership, encouragement and support.

There is no gesture too small. I have had the opportunity to interact and to reach out to the members of the Canadian Forces in many different ways.

Whether it be a troop inspection on a blustery day or the presentation of a service medal or holding the hand of a small child on the cold tarmac during repatriation ceremonies in Trenton or simply chatting with a soldier over a pint at a mess, these moments are crucial, not just to the individual members, but to the spirit of the Canadian Forces themselves.

In March, when I visited the troops in Afghanistan, I was amazed by the sheer amount of work they do everyday … tirelessly, continually and without rest. I was humbled by the courage, pride and conviction they demonstrate in everything they do.

A few days ago, I visited the base at Valcartier where I had the opportunity to see first hand what our troops are doing at home in support of their colleagues and the mission in Afghanistan. Many of the men and women I met with had just returned from Kandahar themselves and were already back at work. In their eyes I saw their pride and sense of accomplishment in light of an experience they will carry with them for life.

I also met with their families at the Family Resource Centre. I answered their questions and shared their concerns, but I also saw how proud they and their children were of their loved ones.

The Military Family Resource Centre in Valcartier, like others I have visited across the country—in Edmonton, Gagetown and Petawawa—offers invaluable support to members of the Forces and their families. I am so pleased to see the growing importance we are placing on helping the troops and their loved ones by recognizing and treating the emotional and psychological, as well as the physical, toll that military life can bring.

I believe that the services and support offered by these centres and their dedicated cadre of volunteers are of utmost importance and key to the success of the Canadian Forces. We are, after all, one big family. We are united in triumph and drawn together in grief.

Today, as you receive your scrolls of commission, you accept the responsibility of helping to lead this family. The nation is relying on you. And as your commander-in-chief, I wish you courage and success in your new endeavours.

Congratulations!