HMCS Winnipeg

On any excursion out to Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse I am always reminded of Victoria's strong and lengthy association with the navy. During the city's earliest years it was of course only accessible by ship and many of the early ships visiting here were Royal Navy vessels. Canada's main Pacific Naval Base is located in Esquimalt Harbour, directly across from the Fisgard Lighthouse. On my last visit out there I was lucky to see the frigate, HMCS Winnipeg, leaving the harbour. This vessel has been active in anti-terrorist operations in the Persian Gulf and against piracy off the coast of East Africa. It is also used for policing the waters off our Pacific Coast.

USS Ronald Reagan

Here's another photo from the recent Navy and Parks Canada celebrations out at Fort Rodd Hill. To the left of the Fisgard Lighthouse, that enormous ship is the USS Ronald Reagan, an American aircraft carrier that is here for the Canadian Navy's Fleet Review. The ship carries about 6,000 servicemen and over 60 combat aircraft. Click HERE to read the FAQ.