First Female Commander Takes Charge of Canadian Armed Forces

Gen. Jennie Carignan has become the first woman to command Canada's military. At a ceremony in Ottawa, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau highlighted this historic achievement, noting Carignan's extensive career and past leadership roles. Carignan aims to focus on recruitment and retention amid NATO spending criticisms.

Gen. Jennie Carignan has taken command of Canada's military, marking the first time a woman has held this position. The historic ceremony took place at the Canadian War Museum in Ottawa, with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau applauding Carignan's trailblazing career. He noted, 'You are the very first woman to ever become Chief of the Defense staff in Canada, the very first in the G7 and the G20.'

Carignan's military career is filled with notable firsts, including being the first woman to command a combat unit. Her deployments have spanned Iraq, Afghanistan, Bosnia, and Syria. More recently, she served as the chief of professional conduct and culture, addressing the sexual misconduct scandal that rocked the Canadian Armed Forces in 2021.

Carignan expressed her gratitude and readiness for her new role, emphasizing her focus on recruitment and retention of military personnel. This appointment comes amid ongoing criticisms from NATO allies regarding Canada's defense spending, with the government pledging to meet its NATO commitments by 2032.

(With inputs from agencies.)