Lieutenant-General (LGen) Stephen Kelsey assumed the responsibilities of Vice Chief of the Defence Staff (VCDS) during a change of command ceremony which took place at National Defence Headquarters Carling today.
General Jennie Carignan, the Chief of the Defence Staff, presided over the ceremony in the presence of military and civilian members of the Defence Team.
As second in command of the Canadian Armed Forces, the VCDS is responsible for ensuring that Department of National Defence policy strategic objectives are achieved. Accountable to both the CDS and the Deputy Minister of National Defence, the VCDS also governs National Defence headquarters and its related activities.
LGen Frances Allen has contributed a remarkable 41-year career to serving in the Canadian Armed Forces, and her diverse career has included postings as Director General Cyber Force Development and the Canadian Military Representative at NATO in Brussels. As the first woman appointed to the position of VCDS, LGen Allen notably led the implementation of files such as Reconstitution and NORAD Modernization.
LGen Stephen Kelsey is a distinguished leader with over three decades serving in the Canadian Armed Forces. He has commanded with excellence in various roles, including operational deployments in Croatia, Montenegro, and Afghanistan. His expertise is pivotal, supported by advanced education and international recognition. LGen Kelsey will continue to exemplify leadership and strategic proficiency in global military operations in his role as VCDS.
