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NLIS 4
January 14, 2005
(Executive Council)
 


Premier congratulates Lt.-Gen. Rick Hillier

Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador Danny Williams today congratulated Lt.-Gen. Rick Hillier on his recent appointment as Canada's next Chief of Defence Staff. 

"I had the great privilege of meeting Lt.-Gen. Hillier last year, and I know that he will bring great passion and energy to this very honourable and prestigious position," said Premier Williams. "I congratulate him on his appointment and assure him that Newfoundlanders and Labradorians are extremely proud of his service to our country and to the international community." 

Born and raised in Campbellton, Notre Dame Bay, Lt.-Gen. Hillier earned an undergraduate degree in science in 1975 before taking his first posting in the Canadian Forces was at Camp Petawawa, Ontario. His military career has seen him serve throughout Canada, Europe and the United States, including in command positions with United Nations and NATO forces.

"Lt.-Gen. Hillier was chosen as our country�s new Chief of Defence Staff because he has a warrior�s courage, a leader�s commitment and a peace-keeper�s heart," added Premier Williams. "He has served in some of the world�s most troubled and unstable regions, and has been instrumental in restoring security and peace for ordinary people in extraordinary circumstances." 

In 2004, Lt.-Gen. Hillier commanded NATO�s International Security Assistance Force in

Afghanistan, and prior to that led a multinational force in Bosnia-Herzegovina. He also developed a relationship with American forces, spending time as deputy commanding officer of the U.S. army�s Third Armored Corps in Texas. 

"His service within Canada is no less distinguished," said Premier Williams. "Through his command of the Canadian Force�s efforts during the 1998 ice storm in Ontario and Quebec, he touched the lives of ordinary Canadians in positive, very meaningful ways. On behalf of the people of Newfoundland and Labrador, I wish to express to Lt.-Gen. Hillier our sincere congratulations and best wishes." 

Media contact: Elizabeth Matthews, Office of the Premier, (709) 729.3960, (709) 690.5500   elizabethmatthews@gov.nl.ca

2005 01 14                         4:20 p.m.


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