October 1, 2009

The ceremony held inside the Canada Aviation Museum on Thursday, October 1, 2009 began at 11:30 a.m. Lieutenant-General André Deschamps  succeeded Lieutenant-General Angus Watt as the Commander of Air Command and Chief of the Air Staff.  LGen Watt has held this appointment since July 26, 2007, and is retiring after 37 years of distinguished service to Canada.

 

General Walter Natynczyk, Chief of the Defence Staff,  presided over the transfer of leadership. The ceremony consisted of a 50-person Honour Guard and a Colour Party with music provided by the Central Band of the Canadian Forces, Air Command Pipes and Drums.

 

Also present was the Hon. Peter McKay, Minister of Defence.

From left: Lieutenant-General Angus Watt, General Walter Natynczyk, and Lieutenant-General André Deschamps sign official Change of Command documents.