After 30-plus years in the Canadian Armed Forces, Chief Warrant Officer Jim McKenzie wondered, as he was appointed chief warrant officer of the Air Reserve in January 2020, “what would be ahead?
“The same challenges as my predecessors? Did I miss that mark!”
McKenzie spoke at 14 Wing Greenwood June 15, as he prepared to turn over his responsibilities to the next incoming Air Reserve chief, Chief Warrant Officer Sean MacEachern, in a change of appointment ceremony.
“The pandemic, working from home, techs navigating through rules and regulations – but, always with professionalism and flawless dedication,” McKenzie said. “With some return to normalcy, it became amazingly clear as we travelled the country, visiting bases and wings, how well our Reservists are relied upon and are contributing to the CAF mission.”
“Being the Air Reserve chief has truly been an honour and a privilege I will remember for a lifetime.”
McKenzie thanked Director General Air Strategic Resources and Air Reserve Brigadier-General Justin Thibert for his leadership and mentorship, and his full support “the well-being of our members would come first. That has been very much appreciated.
“Sean, brother: you now have a very short time to make a difference as chief but, over the past few years as the Air Reserve career manager, you have been there for our people. You’re more than capable of filling this role, looking at the outdated policies, the time it takes to enroll ab initio Reservists – it will be worth the fight.”
And, McKenzie thanked his wife, Brenda, and family, in emotional comments for “continued support and sacrifice you’ve endured over the years.
“My time in the CAF is quickly approaching an end, and I look forward to the time I’ll be able to send with you all.”
Thibert cautioned McKenzie this change isn’t yet “goodbye,” as McKenzie is heading into a new role.
“I tip my hat to you for a job well done, I thank you for your counsel and your sound advice when I needed it, and your outstanding performance and amazing leadership taking care of our people through some pretty tumultuous times.”
Thibert welcomed MacEachern to the chief’s position, and the beginning of their command relationship: “I could not see anyone better to fill Chief McKenzie’s shoes. We have a lot of challenges, but we also have the opportunity moving forward with the biggest modernization of the air force since the Second World War.”
With the signing of the official appointment paperwork and the passing of the chief’s drill cane, MacEachern accepted his new role with “humility and excitement.
“Being selected for this is an honour, and I’m truly grateful for the opportunity,” MacEachern said. “Jim’s hard work and dedication over the past almost four years has left an indelible mark on the Air Reserve, his leadership has guided us through unforeseen and uncharted waters – you were the leader we needed at that time. I’m committed to maintaining that standard of excellence.”
