Canada – Centenary of the Navy

The Canadian Navy came into existence on May 4, 1910, when the Naval Service Act became law. Permission to add the prefix “Royal” was granted by King George V in 1911. In 1968, the Canadian Navy was merged with Canada’s army and air force to form the Canadian Armed Forces, later the Canadian Forces; The maritime component was named Maritime Command replacing the title Royal Canadian Navy. With a country as vast as Canada, it’s easy to forget that Canada is a maritime nation. But, bordered by three major oceans and home to the largest coastline in the world, her national development has always been shaped by the safety of her waters. For the past century, the men and women of Canada’s naval forces have stood their guard at sea, protecting the country from threats as diverse as terrorism, illegal resource exploitation, pollution violation, narcotics trafficking and illegal immigration. As the warships of Canada’s navy continue to defend the nation’s interests in home waters and around the world, Canada Post will celebrate their 100^th anniversary with two commemorative stamps. The commemorative stamp issue depicts the past and present of Canada’s naval service. “The two stamps were designed as separate artworks, but they appear as one canvas on this Miniature Sheet. They share the same sky, marine life and open sea environments. The two ships, though of a different age, appear as part of the same fleet,” notes designer Andrew Perro of the Toronto-based firm, Designwerke. “One of Canada’s first warships, the HMCS Niobe, sails alongside a modern frigate, the HMCS Halifax—a feature that speaks to the passage of time, capturing the magnitude of this major centennial milestone.” The design is complimented by marine inspired colours and crisp typography.