Army appoints first honorary colonel

Toronto, Ontario — Blake C. Goldring, the chair and CEO of one of Canada’s largest investment management companies, was formally recognized today as the honorary colonel of the Army. Lieutenant-General Peter Devlin, commander of Canada’s Army, presided over the ceremony at Canadian Forces College in Toronto.

“The tradition of honorary colonels within the Canadian Army dates back to the 13th Battalion of Infantry in 1895,” said LGen Devlin, Chief of the Land Staff. “In today’s context, having influential Canadians in that capacity enhances the Army as a collective.”

HCol Goldring was Honorary Colonel of The Royal Regiment of Canada from 2006–2010 and is a member of the Royal Military College’s (RMC) Board of Governors. In June 2008, the RMC bestowed upon him an Honorary Doctor of Laws degree. In February 2009, the Governor General of Canada awarded him with the Meritorious Service Medal (Military Division).

Staunch Army supporter
LGen Devlin went on to say that HCol Goldring has been a staunch supporter of the Army and Canadian soldiers.

“I am very pleased that he will continue to be associated with us as the first-ever honorary colonel of the Army. This new position will only compliment our already formidable honorary colonel network in maintaining the strongest possible links between the Army and Canadian citizens. This is a good news story for Canada.”

“I am deeply honoured to accept this appointment,” said HCol Goldring. “Our soldiers make great sacrifices in the service of Canada and Canadian interests. I am grateful for this opportunity to support them by continuing to be a bridge between the business community and the men and women in uniform who make us proud at home and abroad.”

In addition to leading the investment management firm, HCol Goldring founded Canada Company: Many Ways to Serve in 2006. This apolitical charitable organization brings together leaders from across Canada to support the Canadian Forces (CF) and their families.

With this appointment, HCol Goldring aims to enhance the CF’s efforts to connect with Canadians by expanding Canada Company’s support base to over 500 business and community leaders. He will also participate in various ceremonial events to raise greater awareness about the work that the Army and soldiers do.

For more information about Canada Company, visit www.canadacompany.ca.