HMCS Haida an impressive, symbolic historic site

NEWS RELEASE
Ted Arnott, MPP
Wellington – Halton Hills

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 4, 2010

HMCS Haida an impressive, symbolic historic site
(Queen’s Park) – Proudly moored on the shores of Hamilton Harbour is the HMCS Haida.
Commissioned into the Royal Canadian Navy in 1943, the Tribal Class destroyer is now a National
Historic Site. It is also a proud symbol, says Wellington-Halton Hills MPP Ted Arnott, of service to
country.

Paying tribute to those who served in the Royal Canadian Navy, Mr. Arnott delivered a statement
today in the Ontario Legislature.

“Through their service, they remind us of those who travelled to distant lands, far from their families,
on our behalf—and, indeed, of those who do so today,” he said.

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On Sunday, October 3 , Mr. Arnott and his family toured the Haida along with Fergus Legion
President Ray Pearse.

“Mr. Pearse, having served on the Haida in the late 1950s, offered his compelling, firsthand account
of life aboard this Canadian warship,” said Mr. Arnott, whose late father-in-law, Ted McCabe, also
served in the Royal Canadian Navy.

“His story, like that of Mr. Pearse, was one of youthful courage, achievement, and service to
country,” he said.

“I want to thank Ray for taking us on the tour of the Haida, for his continuing leadership at the
Legion, and all other Legion members for their important work.”

Following a post-war refit, the Haida continued in service through the Korean War and Cold War,
until she was decommissioned in 1963.

This year is an important one for the Royal Canadian Navy as it marks its 100th anniversary.

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Attached: Text of Mr. Arnott’s statement
Photo of Ray Pearse and Ted Arnott
Suggested caption

Ted Arnott, MPP
Phone: 416-325-3880
Email: ted.arnott@pc.ola.org