Marine Atlantic and the Royal Canadian Navy to commemorate 70th Anniversary of the sinking of the SS Caribou

Marine Atlantic will join representatives from the Royal Canadian Navy in commemorating the 70th anniversary of the loss of the SS Caribou on Sunday, October 14. A wreath laying ceremony, followed by a Royal Canadian Navy committal of ashes ceremony, will take place at the site of the tragedy during the regularly scheduled Port aux Basques-North Sydney afternoon crossing.

"The SS Caribou tragedy has influenced the people and communities throughout Newfoundland and Labrador and Nova Scotia for 70 years," said Paul Griffin, President and CEO of Marine Atlantic. "As the modern day version of the ferry service connecting Newfoundland with Nova Scotia, we remember the sacrifice of those who came before us. The SS Caribou will always be remembered within Marine Atlantic and our port communities, and in the memories of the thousands of seafarers and families who have been touched by this tragic incident for the past seven decades."

"The loss of the SS Caribou in 1942 by a German U-boat is a tragedy beyond words that is still felt today by the family and friends of those lost and by Marine Atlantic. I am thankful that Canadians continue to show respect to all members of the Canadian Forces, and especially to our veterans who paid the ultimate sacrifice for their country," said Admiral David Gardam, Royal Canadian Navy Commander of Maritime Forces Atlantic.

The SS Caribou was enroute from North Sydney to Port aux Basques when it was torpedoed in 1942 by a German U-boat. Of the 237 men, women and children who were on the vessel, 136 people died in this tragedy.

Marine Atlantic and the Royal Canadian Navy are pleased to partner in marking this historic occasion. As this will be a regularly scheduled crossing, the vessel will reduce speed for the ceremony upon arrival at the site of the SS Caribou tragedy. Media are welcome to attend the event and are asked to pre-register with Marine Atlantic by 4pm NL time, Friday, October 12.

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Media Contact:

Darrell Mercer

Marine Atlantic

Telephone: 709.772.0073

Email: [email protected]

Jeri Grychowski

Maritime Forces Atlantic Public Affairs

Telephone (902)427-3221

Cell: 902-441-3789

Email: [email protected]