Lieutenant Colonel (Lt.-Col.) Allan Dengis assumed command of HMCS Quadra in a change of command ceremony with the outgoing commanding officer, commander (Cmdr.) Martin Packer on July 14.
In a ceremony presided over by the commander of the Regional Cadet Support Unit (Pacific), commander Brad Henderson spoke very highly about Cmdr. Packer.
“He spent 13 years in Quadra, then eventually took command to have an exceptional three years as the commanding officer,” said Henderson. “To me, this indicates his immense dedication and commitment to not only the cadet organization but more importantly, you the cadets.”
Henderson also had a message to Lt.-Col. Dengis.
“Al, you have all the experience to take over the helm here and I’m sure you will do an exceptional job. You understand the mission, and that mission is the cadets. I look forward to the next three years with you at the helm.”
It was a very emotional speech from Cmdr. Packer as he recalled the many year were both cadets and staff had a huge impact on him. Taking a trip down memory lane, he had the crowd laughing and welling up at the same time. During an interview Cmdr. Packer revealed his love of the Comox Valley and most importantly his Quadra family.
“Half of my adult life has been here at Quadra and it has made me a better person not only in my military career, but also in my civilian career. In the near future, I will be concentrating on my civilian job and eventually see about take on the role of commanding officer at another cadet training centre,” he explains.
Lt.-Col. Dengis delivered a captivating speech offering his commitment to the staff and cadets of HMCS Quadra. Throughout, he spoke of teamwork, collaborative goals and his offer to provide a safe, challenging, and rewarding time serving together.
“I look forward to this new command and leading you into the future through the summer of 2018 and the sea cadet 100th anniversary.
“Let us be guided by our moto: Press on, taking fresh troubles for granted.”
In the traditional fashion, Cmdr. Packer had a send-off that clearly demonstrated the impact he will leave on these cadets and staff. They lined the pathway with hands out, as he emotionally gave high fives and handshakes to the young adults of tomorrow.