Design
This modern-day monument encompasses a large circular concrete base, surrounded by fourteen interpretive panels showcasing original painted portraits of each featured officer and/or sailor. Located in the centre of the monument is be an 80-foot flagpole, flying a large Royal Canadian Naval Ensign. The notion is that the joined contributions of each honouree have helped to shape the modern RCN, symbolized by the flag at the center.
A mobility accessible concrete pathway will lead visitors to the monument, and two larger informational panels, both in English and French, will be placed at its entrance. These larger panels will explain the monument, list key donors by category (see Project Funding), and encourage people to visit the CNTP’s website which, in addition to providing biographical information, will encourage Canadian youth to develop an appreciation of the contributions each honouree has made on Canadian and naval history.
Construction and Location
The CNTP was constructed in four phases, three of which are now complete.
Phase I: Concrete Walkway, Base, 80 ft. Flagpole (Completed)
Phase II: Original Artwork and CNTP Website (Completed)
Phase III: Installation of commemorative panels & honouree biographies (Completed)
Phase IV: Installation of Main Plaque and Donor Plaque (Summer 2023)
Additionally, a fifth, and continual phase, will be the upkeep of the monument and updates to honouree biographies.
The monument is located on the grounds of HMCS York and will be accessible to the public during specific ceremonies and open-door recruitment drives (it is clearly visible through the fence alongside the waterfront pathway). This will also allow HMCS York staff to raise and lower the large Canadian Naval Ensign throughout the week, and during weekend training. Additionally, the monument’s location is intended to help promote the RCN’s presence in the city – when flown, the large flag will help make HMCS York visible to those passing by on Lakeshore Boulevard.
