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The Later Cold War
From RCN to Maritime Command

The creation of the single-service Canadian Forces in 1968 transformed the Royal Canadian Navy into Maritime Command. The unification of the armed services brought tremendous change, introducing standardized uniforms and other common procedures that replaced older traditions. Federal policy and human rights rulings also increased the use of French, and began to abolish most limits on women's military service.

Canadian Forces Naval Recruiting Poster
Canadian Forces Naval Recruiting Poster

This recruiting poster from the late 1980s or early 1990s helps show the re-emergence of a distinct naval identity within the Canadian Forces.

Two junior officers (upper right) wear the recently introduced Distinctive Environmental Uniforms (DEUs): one black, the other the white summer version. The poster also depicts naval trades and activities, including the use of a sextant for navigation (top centre) and a diver (upper left), accompanied by an artist's concept of the forthcoming Canadian Patrol Frigate and a Sea King helicopter (bottom).

Recruiting Poster
CWM 19910133-043





Sailor's Uniform, mid-1960s
Royal Canadian Navy Parka and Trousers
Designs for a Canadian Naval Jack and Ensign
HMCS Yukon
Uniform, Captain Hans Arnsdorf
Canadian Forces Women's Uniform, 1968
HMCS Cormorant Model
Uniform, Chief Petty Officer Eleanor Abra
Canadian Forces Naval Recruiting Poster
Uniform, Commander William Kern