HMCS Kingston and HMCS Shawinigan return from deployment (6 photos)
Posted Apr 26, 2019 06:19:00 PM.
This article is more than 5 years old.
HMCS Kingston and HMCS Shawinigan made their way back to Halifax Harbour Friday after a three month deployment to Western Africa.
During Op Projection, the crew aboard the two Canadian Forces vessels promoted maritime security and continued to foster relations within the region.
Lieutenant Commander Jeremy Samson said the mission included engagement with communities they visited.
“We had the opportunity to work with underprivileged children, help them out by painting schools, playing soccer, bringing school supplies and just interacting with the children,” he explained.
Lieutenant Commander Terry Share described the experience as very rewarding despite dealing with challenging conditions.
“I knew going in that there would be some heart-wrenching times, but it completely surpassed any of my expectations,” she said. “It was just incredible.”
The crew also took part in two maritime security exercises while in the Gulf of Guinea.
It was difficult being away from home, said Ordinary Seaman Addisiane Freeland, but he believes the experience was worth it.
“It's nice to be back on solid ground,” he said. “It was a really fun experience. It was my first deployment, a lot of firsts for me, but I'm super pumped to be back.”
Now that he's returned to Halifax, heading to a sushi joint is high on his to-do list, along with hitting a hiking trail with his girlfriend, Hannah Sangster.
The two ships departed for their mission on Jan. 22.
