Prime Minister Jean Chrétien today announced the appointment of Lieutenant-Commander Terrance J. Christopher, OMM, LVO, CD as Usher of the Black Rod, effective December 9, 2002.

Lieutenant-Commander Christopher had a distinguished 30 year career in the Canadian Forces, before his retirement in 1994. During his military career, which began in 1964, Lieutenant-Commander Christopher served Canada at HMCS Stadacona, HMCS Cornwallis, the Canadian Forces Base Borden and at NATO. His accomplishments include creating the Second Career Assistance Network and the Canadian Forces Community College Program, both of which had a national scope and a positive personal development effect on thousands of military members and their families.

In 1994, Lieutenant-Commander Christopher became Manager of the Canada Reception Centre, with responsibility for all operations of the Government of Canada’s VIP reception facility for the National Capital Region. He currently serves as the Canadian Forces Task Force Coordinator and Royal Visit Coordinator, and has personally served Her Majesty and all members of the Royal Family on Royal Visits, as well as the Governor General and the Prime Minister. Lieutenant-Commander Christopher is a graduate of St. Francis Xavier University and the Maritime School of School of Social Work.

"I am pleased that Lieutenant-Commander Christopher has agreed to take on this time-honoured and symbolic role, which is an important part of this country’s parliamentary tradition," the Prime Minister said. "Lieutenant-Commander Christopher’s professionalism, dedication and exemplary service at not only the Canada Reception Centre, but also during this year’s Royal Visit and, most recently, during Secretary of State Powell’s visit, have earned him the respect and appreciation of Canadian high officials and foreign dignitaries alike."

Lieutenant-Commander Christopher is the recipient of the Royal Victorian Order, the Order of Military Merit, the 125 Anniversary of Confederation of Canada Medal and both the Canadian Forces Europe Decoration and the Canadian Forces Decoration.

The Usher of the Black Rod carries out a 500 year old parliamentary tradition as the personal attendant and messenger of the Sovereign or Her Representative when either person is in Parliament as well as other ceremonial responsibilities related to the position. The Usher directs all protocol, logistical and administrative details regarding openings of Parliament, including the Speech from the Throne ceremony, and carries out ceremonial duties related to Royal Assent of bills.

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