With a change of command June 11, outgoing Lieutenant-Colonel Pierre-Luc Lafontaine may have been happy to pass over the two hats 415 (Long Range Patrol Force Development) Squadron has been wearing in the last couple of years to the incoming Lieutenant-Colonel Mark Sandner.
“The caliber of people at 415 is really outstanding – the level of expertise, devotion and drive, but the CP140 line of effort… a lot of people don’t see the work in the background to evolve an aging aircraft. This squadron champions – and leads the way – in multiple capabilities, and the platform will remain capable and serve Canadians to its planned retirement in 2030.”
But, at the same time, 415 Squadron is managing the transition to the P8, “directly involved in shaping the requirements and setting the conditions of fleet transition that meets the future fleet needs.
“I’m confident what you set in place will make a significant difference with what comes: Jacksonville training this Fall and, a year from now, ready to lead and bring the P8 fleet into service.”
Lafontaine, posted to Brussels as the deputy commanding officer with the Canadian military delegation to NATO, said it’s been a “blast” through his last two years with 415, and he thanked “every member… it’s been a privilege to serve with you.”
Sandner arrives in Greenwood from most recent time in Ottawa, working on the CP140-to-P8 Canadian Multi-Mission Aircraft project, through the timeline of early options to the acquisition announcement.
“We’ll be one of the first squadrons to fly the P8 next year,” he said. “We find ourselves at a pivotal moment for the Royal Canadian Air Force – fleet and Canadian Armed Forces; the most significant change we’ve ever seen. That demands determination – and a large dash of ingenuity. We have that expertise in the unit, and in the character of our members.
“It is a tremendous honour to assume command of 415 Squadron today: I am proud, and humbled.”
14 Wing Greenwood Colonel Luc Vachon congratulated members of 415 Squadron for its parade effort on the day, with two 15-member flights marking the ceremony. He took it as a symbol of accomplishment within the squadron, and congratulated Lafontaine for leading through his two years of effect, ensuring continued capabilities of the CP140 “in service, meeting operational requirements around the world;” and looking further into the future.
“The P8 Poseidon work can not be overstated: there is a framework here that will guide one of the most significant transitions in the RCAF. And, that’s not through plans and processes, but because of people: people you lead,” Vachon said.
Vachon welcomed Sandner: “there are few better positioned to lead the next phase than you, and the coming years will be historic for this squadron. It will take vision, teamwork and dedication. 415 stands at the forefront of a generational transition.
“The work you all do today will shape operations for years to come, and position the success of the RCAF in the defence of Canada and its partners.”
