Her Majesty's Canadian Ship Brandon Teddy Bear Hunt Initiative


May 4, 2021

Brandon, MB – Her Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Brandon, namesake ship of the City of Brandon, is on a mission to bring joy and warmth to young Canadians and families. The global teddy bear hunt is a proven way to cheer up young Canadians during this time of social distancing and lockdowns.  

The residents of Brandon are invited to follow HMCS Brandon’s social media accounts to see pictures of the teddy bear in various locations on the ship. Followers will be able to guess where they think the teddy is located on board the ship, as well as take part in a naming contest.  

Regular updates can be found on the following HMCS Brandon’s social media accounts: 

  • Facebook: @HMCSBrandon 

  • Instagram: @HMCS_Brandon 

  • Twitter: @HMCSBrandon 

 

HMCS Brandon departed Esquimalt Harbour on February 18, 2021 and is joined by the United States Coast Guard Law Enforcement Detachment 103. They are patrolling in the eastern Pacific Ocean on operation CARIBBE to support Joint Interagency Task Force South, who is responsible for the detection and monitoring of illicit trafficking in the eastern Pacific and Caribbean regions. 

During the challenging environment with the COVID-19 pandemic, HMCS Brandon aims to be one of the first Canadian warship on a mission that is launching the teddy bear initiative.  

“We hope the people of Brandon will follow us on social media to see all the neat and fun things our racoon teddy bear will do on the ship”, notes Lieutenant-Commander Officer Maude Ouellet-Savard. “For example, driving the ship and sneaking into dry stores, where we store our dry goods and food!” 

As the namesake city, the City of Brandon is proud to join HMCS Brandon’s initiative to display teddy bears in the windows of City Hall and other civic buildings. It is a reminder to the residents of Brandon of all the work HMCS Brandon is engaged in, often resulting in the sailors’ long absences from their families and loved ones.  

“To the crew of HMCS Brandon, we take this opportunity to recognize your professionalism, dedication, and sacrifice in the service to our Nation,” notes Mayor Rick Chrest. “We thank you for your service in protecting and preserving the freedoms that Canadians enjoy.”