Canadian Naval Centennial
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Winterlude Ice Sculpture
Iceberg of a different kind to celebrate Navy Centennial
 Credit: Cpl Chelsey Hutson Illumination of the Navy Centennial ice sculpture at the Confederation Park, Ottawa, ON. |
As part of Winterlude celebrations, an incredibly detailed replica of HMCS Sackville was constructed for the Rogers’ Crystal Garden at Confederation Park.
The partnership between VAC and the NCC has existed since 2005, the Year of the Veteran. Each February they sponsor the creation of a top-notch sculpture. "During this edition of Winterlude, we are pleased to have the opportunity to celebrate the Canadian Navy's Centennial," said Marie Lemay, Chief Executive Officer of the NCC. "This ice sculpture, a replica of the HMCS Sackville, highlights the accomplishments of those who have served, and continue to serve Canada."
The design sketch was done by a local sculptor. Sackville was shaped from 200 blocks of ice, each weighing 300 pounds. Five sculptors completed this work of art in fifteen hours over a two day period. Sackville was accompanied by three interpretive panels outlining the history of the Canadian Navy. Visitors visiting the Crystal Garden during evening hours had the added delight of lighting that created an even more nautical feel to the carving. The result was lifelike and drew great attention from Winterlude participants over three weekends.
HMCS Sackville is the last remaining Flower-class corvette of the more than 120 built in Canada during the Second World War. One of the original members of the famous Barber Pole Group, the Sackville was commissioned in 1941. This group of ships, with its red and white barber pole stripes painted on the funnel, is still represented in our current navy.
"The victories we have achieved over the years would not have been possible without the tens of thousands of sailors who left the comforts of home and put out to sea," said the Honourable Jean-Pierre Blackburn, Minister of Veterans Affairs. "Their contributions, their courage were every bit as remarkable. Every bit as crucial to the history of our country."
“I believe that having an ice sculpture of HMCS Sackville is truly an honour because she is a proud tangible product of the Canadian spirit - built in Canada, by Canadians, for Canadians. The sculpture will not only serve to honour the past, but as recognition of the on-going achievements of the present navy, and a commitment by the navy to the country and to the future. As we mark our centenary, the men and women of the Canadian Navy want Canadians to know we are extremely proud to serve our country and appreciate the support we receive that allows us to do what we do” said Rear-Admiral Greenwood, Assistant Chief of the Maritime Staff.
Winterlude represents one activity undertaken in celebration of the naval centennial. Help us commemorate the past, celebrate the present, and make a commitment for the future by participating in activities in your area.
