Navy identifies sailor who died in training exercise in Halifax harbour
The Royal Canadian Navy has identified the sailor who tragically lost his life after a rigid-hull inflatable boat capsized in the Bedford Basin on Friday night. Commodore Jacob French, the commander of Canadian Fleet Atlantic, confirmed that Petty Officer 2nd Class Gregory Applin was a crew member of HMCS Montreal.
In a news conference held in Halifax on Monday, French expressed the deep sorrow felt by the family, shipmates, and the entire navy over the loss of Applin. He emphasized the support being provided to Applin’s family and loved ones during this incredibly challenging time.
The incident occurred during sea trials being conducted by HMCS Montreal in the northern portion of the Bedford Basin. The crew was moored to buoys as part of the trial activities when the tragic event unfolded on Friday night. The Rigid-Hull Inflatable Boat (RIB) was transporting personnel back to shore when it capsized, throwing Applin and another sailor into the water.
Despite efforts to rescue them, Applin could not be resuscitated and tragically lost his life. The investigation into the incident is being led by the Canadian Forces National Investigation Service, as is standard protocol for such events.
Applin, a 38-year-old weapons engineering technician with 19 years of service in the navy, had participated in a deployment to the Indo-Pacific region last year. French noted that while RIB capsizes have occurred in the past, they are not common occurrences within the navy.
HMCS Montreal has since left the Bedford Basin, and operations are on hold as the focus remains on supporting the crew and Applin’s family. French assured that the navy will resume operations when the time is deemed appropriate.
The tragic loss of Petty Officer 2nd Class Gregory Applin has deeply impacted the Royal Canadian Navy, and efforts are being made to provide support and assistance to all those affected by this devastating event.
