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HALIFAX, NS: Today marked the official Naming Ceremony of the future HMCS Frédérick Rolette, the fifth Arctic and Offshore Patrol Ship (AOPS) for the Royal Canadian Navy. Dating back centuries, the naming of a ship is steeped in tradition and believed to bring good luck and safe travel to the vessel and crew.
The ship’s sponsor, Hélène Châtillon, a descendant of Frédérick Rolette, officially named the ship during a ceremony attended by Rear-Admiral Josée Kurtz (Royal Canadian Navy); Andy Fillmore, Member of Parliament for Halifax; The Honourable Arthur J. Leblanc, Lieutenant Governor of Nova Scotia; as well as descendants of Frédérick Rolette, the ship’s company, and Halifax Shipyard shipbuilders.
In naval tradition, Châtillon broke a bottle of Grand Pré Winery’s Nova Scotia Brut sparkling wine against the bow of the ship, declaring, “I name you Frédérick Rolette. Bless this ship and all who sail in it.”
The six AOPS are named to honour prominent Canadian naval figures who served their country with the highest distinction.
Lieutenant Frédérick Rolette was a Canadian-born officer who served in the Provincial Marine of Upper Canada. He distinguished himself during the War of 1812, earning a reputation as a bold and quick-thinking officer. When the war ended, Rolette returned to a hero’s welcome in Québec City and was presented a fifty-guinea sword of honour in recognition of his service. The historical Canton of Rolette, Québec, located on the south shore of the St. Lawrence River, was established in 1868 in his honour.
The Halifax Shipyard will deliver one AOPS per year to the Royal Canadian Navy ending with the sixth ship in 2025. A further two AOPS variants are being built for the Canadian Coast Guard, with the first under construction at Halifax Shipyard and the second commencing construction in July. In June, Irving Shipbuilding will commence construction of a Production Test Module designed to test and prepare for construction of the first of 15 Canadian Surface Combatant ships.
Quotes
“The future HMCS Frédérick Rolette is something we can all be proud of. It’s a tribute to a naval hero and reflects dramatic improvements in our shipbuilding process that demonstrate the commitment of our workforce. It was built in half the hours of the first ship of the Class and its construction duration is a year shorter than the prior ship. This commitment to continuous improvement is present in every aspect of the work we do at the Halifax Shipyard.”
Dirk Lesko, President, Irving Shipbuilding Inc.
“Frédérick Rolette was a brave and resourceful officer who made a significant impact during the War of 1812. Naming AOPS 5 after him is a fitting tribute to his heroism and dedication. This ship is also a testament to the incredible work being done right here in Halifax. The National Shipbuilding Strategy is boosting our local economy and providing good jobs for our community. Our talented shipbuilders are not just building ships; they’re building the future of our navy, ensuring it is well-equipped to defend Canada’s interests.”
Andy Fillmore, Member of Parliament for Halifax
“In naming our fifth Arctic and Offshore Patrol Vessel after First Lieutenant Frédérick Rolette, the Royal Canadian Navy recognizes his bold, quick-thinking and confident actions during the outbreak of the War of 1812 and throughout his naval career. He returned home to Québec City a hero at a time when Canada, as a nation was still coalescing and contributed to forging a legacy of excellence in service to our nation.”
Rear Admiral Josée Kurtz, Commander Maritime Forces Atlantic & Joint Task Force Atlantic
“I am pleased to take part in the naming ceremony for Irving Shipbuilding’s fifth Harry DeWolf class Arctic and Offshore Patrol Ship, HMCS Frédérick Rolette. Lieutenant Rolette played a heroic role in the Naval aspect of the War of 1812, and it is fitting to commemorate his legacy and service. His story epitomizes the modern-day ethos upheld by members of the Canadian Armed Forces.”
The Honourable Arthur J. LeBlanc, Lieutenant Governor of Nova Scotia
“Today, as we celebrate the official naming of the fifth Arctic and Offshore Patrol Ship, we are also paying tribute to Lieutenant Frédérick Rolette, a naval hero from Québec City. Through the National Shipbuilding Strategy, our government is helping to restore our shipyards, rebuild our marine industry and create good jobs in Canada, while ensuring our sovereignty and protecting our interests at home and abroad.”
The Honourable Jean-Yves Duclos, Minister of Public Services and Procurement