COMOX, B.C. – A new commander has been welcomed to 19 Wing Comox, assuming command from Col. Rhonda Stevens.
The ceremony took place on June 23, with Col. J.P. Gagnon taking command of 19 Wing, according to a news release.
Gagnon began his military career in 1989 at the Collège Militaire Royal de Saint-Jean and graduated from the Royal Military College in Kingston. During his time, he has served in the Persian Gulf on HMCS Regina, East Timor on HMCS Protecteur and as helicopter detachment commander on HMCS Regina.
His second career was with the Maritime Long Range Patrol community, where he commanded a crew for the 2010 Olympics, and another flying over Afghanistan. He capped his career in the RCAF by commanding the “Demons” of 407 (LRP) Squadron at 19 Wing Comox.
Gagnon also holds a Bachelor of Electrical Engineering and a Masters of Defence Studies from the Royal Military College of Canada.
He adds he is pleased to be returning to 19 Wing Comox.
“My family and I are very pleased to be back in Comox and I look forward to serving with you as
we execute our missions and tasks in support of all Canadians,” said Gagnon.
Gagnon will oversee three operational squadrons (407 Long Range Patrol, 435 Transport and Rescue, and 442 Transport and Rescue) as well as 418 Search and Rescue Operational Training Squadron and the Canadian Forces School of Search and Rescue, according to 19 Wing.
