Revolt of the Admirals

Canada’s armed forces were about to be rolled into one — same training, same ranks, and same (gasp!) uniforms. For the proud leaders of the Royal Canadian Navy, this could only mean war.

Written by Nelle Oosterom

 — Posted September 21, 2010

“I should have followed my instincts”

Former defence minister Paul Hellyer does not regret unifying Canada’s armed forces, but he would do a few things differently if he had to do it again. Hellyer unified the army, navy, and air force in the 1960s under a storm of controversy.

The navy in particular opposed unification. An article by Jack Granatstein entitled “Revolt of the Admirals” — published in Canada’s History magazine in October-November 2010 — outlines why naval brass were so against the move..

Hellyer was eighty-seven-years-old when he spoke with Canada’s History associate editor Nelle Oosterom about what he did right — and what he did wrong.

Themes associated with this article

Related to Military & War

Behind Enemy Lines

French-Canadian spies outfox the Nazis to save Allied airmen in preparation for D-Day.

Article

The July Drive

In Newfoundland, Canada Day was never about red-and-white face painting, Pearson’s flag, or bone-rattling rock concerts. It was Memorial Day, focused on morning (and mourning) ceremonies.

Article

Food in the War of 1812

It’s difficult to fight a war on an empty stomach. In this video, historical reenactor Marie Zorniak, discusses her role as the camp cook and the task of trying to recreate the rations of 1812. Episode 9 of the War of 1812 Video Field Guide.

Video

Scooping the War

For the cameramen of the Second World War, half the battle was about making their film the first to hit the newsreels.  

Article