Remembering the Legacy of the Royal Canadian Navy's HMCS Saguenay (DDH 206)
HMCS Saguenay (DDH 206) was a destroyer escort in the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN). Commissioned in 1963, she was one of twelve ships in the St. Laurent class, which were the first Canadian warships designed and built after World War II.
The Saguenay was named after the Saguenay River in Quebec, Canada, and was the third ship to bear that name. She served as a multi-role escort vessel, capable of conducting anti-submarine warfare, surface warfare, and air defence operations.
During her 32 years of service, the Saguenay participated in several notable operations and exercises. In 1971, she was part of a Canadian task group that sailed to Europe to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Battle of the Atlantic. She also took part in various NATO exercises and patrols, including Operation Sharp Guard in the Adriatic Sea during the Yugoslav Wars in the 1990s.
In addition to her operational duties, the Saguenay was also involved in humanitarian missions. In 1976, she assisted in the evacuation of Canadian citizens from Lebanon during the Lebanese Civil War. She also participated in relief efforts after Hurricane Juan struck Nova Scotia in 2003.
The Saguenay was decommissioned in 1995 and was eventually sold for scrap in 2001. However, her legacy lives on, and she remains a symbol of the RCN's dedication and service to Canada.
In recognition of her contributions, the Saguenay was awarded the Battle Honour "Gulf and Kuwait" for her participation in the 1991 Gulf War, as well as the NATO Medal for her service in the Adriatic during the Yugoslav Wars.
Today, the Saguenay is remembered by the many sailors who served on her during her long and distinguished career. Her legacy continues to inspire those who follow in her footsteps, as the RCN remains committed to protecting Canada's interests at sea.
