The top general in the Canadian Forces, Gen. Walter Natynczyk, along with his wife Leslie, made a whirlwind visit on Oct. 22 to the Canadian Detachment at the Naval Oceanographic Processing Facility Whidbey Island. Natynczyk’s position is equivalent to his U.S. Navy counterpart Adm. Mike Mullins, Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff.

During his three hours on base, he attended a luncheon with some of the installation’s senior leadership and a few of the Canadian sailors; presented an award; held a town hall meeting with the Canadian Detachment stationed at NOPF and toured the facility where they work.

Natynczyk kicked off the afternoon with the presentation of a CDS Commendation to Chief Petty Officer 2nd Class Dan Caplette, the Coxswain of the Detachment, a position equivalent to Command Master Chief. The commendation recognized Caplette for his leadership and tireless efforts towards improving the quality of life for all of the Canadians posted “south of the border.”

During the town hall that followed, Natynczyk spoke about several issues facing the Canadian Forces today. The small size of the Canadian Detachment and the general’s personable nature allowed for a fairly intimate gathering. Despite his position, the sailors in attendance felt comfortable enough to pose several questions to the CDS and Canadian Forces Chief Warrant Officer Chief Petty Officer Bob Cleroux, who were both happy to provide in-depth answers about the future of the Canadian Forces and the Canadian Navy.

While the CDS hosted the town hall, several of the sailors’ spouses attended a similar round table with his wife, Leslie. Over refreshments everyone was encouraged to speak freely about the challenges that exist when moving to the United States from Canada. 

“She wanted to hear us talk and give us the best advice possible based on her experiences as a military wife,” said Bree McConnell, one of the spouses.

That Mrs. Natynczyk would take the time to hear from the families impressed both the sailors and their spouses.

“I was really impressed that she spoke to the spouses,” said Canadian Sonar Operators, Leading Seaman Tyler O’Hara. “I’ve never seen this happen before and my wife was very happy to be included.”

NOPF monitors the Integrated Undersea Surveillance System (IUSS) in the Pacific, listening for submarines. A Canadian Detachment has served with NOPF since it was established back in 1987. Today 37 Canadian sailors and their families are stationed on Whidbey Island, assigned to positions that are fully integrated with their U.S. counterparts. As far as anyone working on the base could remember this was the first time that a Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS) has had an opportunity to visit the detachment.