New Commander for Canada’s Air Force

The new Commander of Air Command and Chief of the Air Staff, Lieutenant-General Steve Lucas

OTTAWA -- Command of Canada’s Air Force officially changed hands at a ceremony held this afternoon at the Canada Aviation Museum.

The new Commander of Air Command and Chief of the Air Staff, Lieutenant-General Steve Lucas, assumed command from Lieutenant-General Ken Pennie during a ceremony presided over by General Rick Hillier, Chief of the Defence Staff .

“ These are truly exciting times for the Canadian Forces and the Air Force. The recent federal budget and Defence Policy Statement promise some very positive changes to the Canadian Forces and are reason for optimism,” said Lt.-Gen. Lucas. “The Air Force has a vital role to play as part of the integrated Canadian Forces approach to meeting Canada’s evolving security needs and Canadians will continue to benefit from the excellence and professionalism of the men and women of the Air Force. ”

As the senior Air Force officer in the Canadian military, the Commander of Air Command and Chief of the Air Staff acts as an advisor to the Chief of the Defence Staff on strategic Air Force issues. He is also responsible for the effective employment of personnel and resources to achieve the Air Force mission of generating and maintaining combat capable, multi-purpose air forces to meet Canada's defence objectives.

Lt.-Gen. Lucas’s recent appointments have included Commander of 1 Canadian Air Division/Canadian NORAD Region, Chief of Staff Joint Force Generation, and Special Advisor to the Chief of Defence Staff for Defence Policy Review and Homeland Security Issues.

Lt.-Gen. Pennie is retiring after nearly 39 years of distinguished service with the Air Force.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Captain Jim Hutcheson
Air Force Public Affairs
613-995-6977