It’s a new era for 19 Wing Comox.
The change of command at 19 Wing Comox is being welcomed by local politicians as an opportunity to strengthen relationships between the military and the Comox Valley.
Colonel Chris Shapka has handed command of 19 Wing Comox to Colonel Ian Perreault.
Cumberland Mayor Vickie Brown said the ceremony included a flypast, military parade and addresses from the outgoing and incoming commanders.
She said the K’ómoks First Nation was also recognized, with an elder welcome, an address from Chief Nicole Rempel and a song and blanket presentation to Shapka.
“It was a lovely symbol of his impact and the relationships he has built here.”
Courtenay-Comox MLA Brennan Day said Shapka will be missed in the community as he moves to a new role with Canadian Joint Operations Command.
“Congratulations on a very well-earned promotion, Chris, and all the best as you take on your new role at Canadian Joint Operations Command,” Day said in a statement.
Day welcomed Perreault, who has served in artillery, deployed to Bosnia-Herzegovina and logged nearly 2,500 hours flying aboard the CP-140 Aurora.
