HMCS Haida an impressive historic site

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, according to Wellington-Halton Hills MPP Ted Arnott, and of service to country.

Paying tribute to those who served in the Royal Canadian Navy, Arnott delivered a statement recently 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.

On Oct. 3, 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 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.