TRANSCRIPT

Following the armistice of July 17, 1953, Canadian ships remained to assist in the evacuation of islands being returned to North Korea and to carry out routine patrols. It was not until 1955 that all ships and personnel were returned to home waters.

The mid 1950s were something of a golden era for the RCN(R). In 1955 the largest naval reserve force existed in post-war history at some 13,132 officers, and ratings. On July 22, 1951, women could once again join the navy, but as reservists only. It was not until January 16, 1955 that women could enlist in the regular force. During this period, facilities and training were more comparable to that of the regular Navy than ever before.

In 1953, two HMCS GRIFFON members, Chief Petty Officer Jaeger and Leading Seaman Bryant, travelled to England to take part in the Queen's coronation procession. Also present, but at that time a member of the RCN and not yet affiliated with HMCS GRIFFON, was Mr William Godfrey aboard HMCS SIOUX.