Some go down to the sea in ships

It's been more than two years since I retired from the Royal Canadian Navy. But the Navy still feels like family.

Leading Seaman Brandon South

Today, the Navy released the name of the member of our family who lost his life in Tanzania earlier this week. Leading Seaman Brandon South of HMCS REGINA was about to fly home for a leave period, which only adds to the poignancy of his death.

I was an honourary member of REGINA's commissioning crew, having been responsible for Public Affairs activities in the City of Regina related to the commissioning. In fact, it was my first Public Relation job. (That's right, my first PR job was promoting the Navy in the middle of the Canadian Prairie.) As a result, anything that befalls REGINA always cuts a little closer.

The official statement from REGINA's Captain, Commander Dan Charlebois is here.

Fair winds and following seas, LS South.

Some went down to the sea in ships *

and plied their trade in deep waters;

They beheld the works of the Lord *

and his wonders in the deep.

Psalm 107: 23 - 24

O Eternal Lord God, 

who alone spreadest out the heavens 

and rulest the raging of the sea; 

who has compassed the waters with bounds 
until day and night come to an end; 

be pleased to receive into Thine almighty 
and most gracious protection 

the persons of us Thy servants, 

and the Fleet in which we serve. 

Preserve us from the dangers of the sea, 

and from the violence of the enemy; 

that we may be a safeguard 
unto our most gracious Sovereign Lady, 

Queen Elizabeth, and her Dominions, 

and a security for such as pass upon the seas 
upon their lawful occasions; 

that the inhabitants of our Commonwealth 

may in peace and quietness serve Thee our God; 

and that we may return in safety 

to enjoy the blessings of the land, 

with the fruits of our labours, 

and with a thankful remembrance of Thy mercies 

to praise and glorify Thy Holy Name. Amen.