Hon. Danièle Henkel: Honourable senators, today, we are celebrating Navy and Coast Guard Day. This is an opportunity to pay tribute to those who watch over our waters, coasts and lives day and night.

The Canadian Coast Guard is a quiet but essential force. Operating on three oceans, the Great Lakes and the St. Lawrence, it ensures maritime safety, protects the marine environment and supports coastal and northern communities through rescue, icebreaking, environmental monitoring and sovereignty operations in the Arctic.

In the Northern territories, where distances are vast and conditions are extreme, the Coast Guard’s presence is a matter of not only logistics but survival.

The Polar Max icebreaker, currently under construction, will further bolster this capacity. Showcasing cutting-edge technology, it will demonstrate Canada’s ability to respond and serve in the most challenging regions of the globe. Behind every beacon and every ship are women and men — sailors, engineers, technicians and scientists — who have chosen to serve the public good. Their motto, “Saluti Primum, Auxilio Semper” — or “Safety First, Service Always” — is not just a slogan: It is a promise that they keep every day, often far from the public eye.

As the first female honorary captain of the Canadian Coast Guard, I had the privilege of meeting these crews and witnessing their expertise and courage. They embody the noblest values of the public service: duty, solidarity and humility. Behind them stand their families, who share in the sacrifices of this vocation.

The Coast Guard is also a tangible demonstration of our presence on our oceans and ice, a presence that protects, connects and affirms Canada as a responsible and peaceful maritime power.

Today, let’s pay tribute to their strength, endurance and dedication. I want them to know that the Parliament of Canada sees them, recognizes them and thanks them. Long live the Canadian Coast Guard and long live the Royal Canadian Navy.

Thank you.