Brandon-Souris Member of Parliament Grant Jackson has expressed significant support for a bold proposal to bring HMCS Brandon, a Royal Canadian Navy vessel soon to be retired, to Brandon, Manitoba, as a tourist attraction.
In a recent letter to the editor of the Brandon Sun, Jackson expressed enthusiasm for the idea initially proposed by columnist Deveryn Ross and supported by George Haggerty of “Brandon Salutes”, who is a retired Canadian Forces Lieutenant.
Jackson sees the retirement of HMCS Brandon as a unique opportunity to honour the ship’s legacy and its connection to Canada’s naval history. “This ship has proudly carried our city’s name across Canada’s oceans,” Jackson wrote. He envisions the vessel becoming a permanent exhibit in Brandon, where students, families, and visitors can explore its decks and learn about its service.
To advance the initiative, Jackson has already contacted the Minister of National Defence to express the community’s interest in securing the ship for display in Brandon. While acknowledging the logistical challenges of transporting and reassembling the vessel, he remains optimistic, inspired by Ross’s call for imagination and determination.
Haggerty previously suggested that the ship could be dismantled into three parts, stripped of heavy components like engines, and transported by truck or rail to a permanent site in the city.
Brandon Mayor Jeff Fawcett has also taken an interest in HMCS Brandon, which is currently set to be paid off on Canada’s West Coast, and he has made inquiries with the Royal Canadian Navy. Jackson emphasized his commitment to collaborating with local leaders, veterans, and residents to explore the feasibility of this ambitious project.
“This is just the first step,” Jackson noted, underscoring the importance of pursuing this vision to preserve the ship’s history and create a lasting tribute in the Wheat City. If successful, the project could transform HMCS Brandon into a unique attraction, drawing visitors and fostering community pride.