OTTAWA – Prime Minister Stephen Harper today announced that His Royal Highness Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, has been appointed as an honorary admiral and general in Her Majesty’s Canadian Armed Forces on the occasion of his 90th birthday.
“I am delighted that His Royal Highness has accepted this honour from Canada in recognition of his significant contribution to our national life,” said Prime Minister Harper. “His unwavering support of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and his commitment to the Canadian Armed Forces, as well as to many other fields of endeavour in this country, are worthy of our highest recognition and deepest gratitude.”
It is the first time that an honorary rank is granted at the highest level of the Canadian Armed Forces, which underscores the importance of the honour being granted to His Royal Highness by Canada. With these appointments, The Duke of Edinburgh becomes an Admiral in Maritime Command and a General in Land Forces Command and Air Command, and His Royal Highness may choose to wear these ranks on all three uniforms of the Canadian Armed Forces.
"The Duke of Edinburgh has had a close association with the Canadian Armed Forces since the Coronation of Her Majesty the Queen in 1953. His Royal Highness is currently Colonel-in-Chief of five Canadian regiments, and holds similar appointments with all three cadet organizations. His service to the Canadian Armed Forces in this capacity has been recognized by the award of the Canadian Forces' Decoration with four clasps."
“On this important day, it is most appropriate for Canada to honour The Duke of Edinburgh for his outstanding record of service and dedication to the Canadian Armed Forces and to Canada over the past 58 years. He is truly an inspiration to us all and I know that all Canadians join me in extending congratulations to His Royal Highness on these appointments and best wishes for many more years of continued health and happiness,” added the Prime Minister.
