TRANSCRIPT

In May 1956 the HMCS GRIFFON band was formed under Bandmaster Norman Mattshaw. Within a short time, the band became very popular, participating in local parades and benefits, and doing concerts for residents of group homes. The band lasted until 1969 when it was disbanded for financial reasons.

On December 4, 1957 the Minister of National Defence, General Pearkes, stated in an address to the House of Commons that the structure of the reserves was going to change. In response to the threat of nuclear war, emphasis in the RCN(R) was going to focus on quality over quantity. Reductions in strength were made accordingly. This evaluation of maritime defences was only the first in a series carried out in the late 1950s and 1960s.