End-of-Year Message from the Chief of the Defence Staff and the CAF Chief Warrant Officer

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As we reflect on the past year, we are deeply proud of the extraordinary dedication and professionalism shown by members of the Defence Team. Your unwavering commitment to serving Canada inspires us every day, exemplifying the strength and resilience that define our team.

Alongside CAF Chief Warrant Officer Bob McCann, I have had the privilege of meeting many of you across the country and around the world. Your remarkable work, often carried out under challenging circumstances, is a testament to your professionalism and dedication. While we have accomplished much together, our mission continues, driven by a shared commitment to transformation and a mobilization mindset. These efforts are essential as we adapt to the demands of a changing security environment while remaining focused on our core priorities: supporting our people, ensuring operational readiness, advancing professionalism, and enhancing capabilities.

Supporting our people remains our top priority. The members of our Defence Team – military and civilian – are at the heart of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF), and we are dedicated to promoting your well-being, professional development, and the needs of your families. Equally, we recognize the importance of maintaining operational readiness to ensure we are prepared – mentally, physically, and operationally – to respond to the evolving threats we face at home and abroad. Upholding the highest standards of ethics and conduct reinforces trust in our institution and reflects the professionalism that defines the CAF. At the same time, enhancing our capabilities through modern equipment, advanced technologies, and cutting-edge training ensures we remain effective and adaptive in a rapidly changing world.

This integrated approach to our priorities is what enables us to address the significant challenges we face. Geopolitical tensions, climate-related disasters, and the rapid evolution of threats require a unified and focused Defence Team. By embracing transformation and fostering a mobilization mindset, we are streamlining processes, reallocating resources, and prioritizing critical initiatives to strengthen these pillars. This positions us to meet challenges head-on, ensuring that the CAF continues to protect Canada and contribute to international peace and stability.

Looking ahead, we know that global challenges will continue to evolve, whether through conflicts, humanitarian crises, or new security threats. Our strength lies in our unity, guided by shared values of respect, compassion, and dignity. By working together and supporting one another, we will meet these challenges with determination and resolve.

As we close out 2024, take pride in your achievements and those of the entire Defence Team. Your dedication and professionalism are deeply valued by Canadians and inspire confidence in our collective ability to defend our nation and its interests. We wish you and your families a safe, restful, and joyous holiday season. Together, we will continue to serve Canada with excellence, determination, and pride.