By Canadian Press

Canadian officer first woman to command standing NATO naval group

Jul 31, 2019 | 10:27 AM

A Royal Canadian Navy officer heading a NATO fleet in the Black Sea and Mediterranean is the first woman to be given such a command in the alliance’s history.

Commodore Josee Kurtz is commanding Standing NATO Maritime Group Two, one of four such naval groups operated under NATO.

In command since mid-June, Kurtz says her appointment is a tremendous personal opportunity and sends a strong signal to a younger generation who may want to make a career in the military.

Kurtz says it also speaks to the diversity of the alliance.

The 31-year navy veteran says her group has participated in two exercises in the Black Sea in a show of support for allies in the region, including Ukraine and Bulgaria.

Question of the Week

Were you surprised by the City of Kamloops AAP voting result?

Sep 23, 2024

Sound Off

SOUND OFF: Red Bridge could rise from the ashes, literally - here's how

Sep 23, 2024

One Man's Opinion

COLLINS: Set aside some time this week to follow some heavy duty stories

Sep 22, 2024

She says she believes the NATO presence is important, and it also gives Canadian sailors an opportunity to hone their training.

The Canadian Press