A North Bay native has come home to take over the role of incoming 22 Wing Commander/Canadian Air Defence Sector Commander at CFB North Bay.
On Friday at 22 Wing/Canadian Forces Base North Bay, Colonel (Col.) Mark Lachapelle officially relinquished command of 22 Wing/Canadian Forces Base North Bay and the Canadian Air Defence Sector to Col. Richard Jolette. Major-General Eric Kenny, Commander 1 Canadian Air Division and Canadian NORAD Region, presided over the ceremony accompanied by Chief Warrant Officer Dan Campbell, 1 Canadian Air Division/Canadian NORAD Region Chief Warrant Officer.
Col. Jolette, born and raised here in North Bay, says he is grateful for the opportunity to take command of 22 Wing/Canadian Forces Base North Bay.
“Both this city and this wing hold a very special place in my heart," said Col. Jollette.
"North Bay is home to me, and I am thankful to return as wing commander. 22 Wing plays a fundamental role in NORAD, as we work closely with our American teammates, ensuring we continue to watch over 10 million square kilometres of Canadian skies. I wish Mark the best of luck at Air War College in Alabama."
Due to current COVID-19 restrictions, the ceremony was witnessed by members of 22 Wing and local dignitaries both in person and through virtual technology.
“Colonel Lachapelle had the challenging job of commanding an RCAF wing during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Under his leadership and approach as a team-builder, 22 Wing instituted procedures to ensure both the health and safety of its members, while successfully conducting the NORAD mission. Throughout his command, he made community engagement a priority and he can be proud to know that he has made a difference within the Canadian Air Defence Sector and Canadian NORAD Region.”
Major-General Eric Kenny, Commander 1 Canadian Air Division and Canadian NORAD Region
“It has been a great privilege to command 22 Wing. I am honoured to have worked with some of the most dedicated, creative and hard-working operators and support services personnel. The future of the 22 Wing is in good hands! Col. Jolette brings a wealth of experience to the fight; he will be an excellent fit and I wish him all the best," Colonel Mark Lachapelle, Outgoing 22 Wing Commander/Canadian Air Defence Sector Commander.
