The sixth in a series of Canadian Coast Guard (CCG) vessels was launched at Irving Shipbuilding's Halifax Shipyard last week. Several very special guests attended.

The CCGS Corporal McLaren M.M.V. (Medal of Military Valour) is one of nine new ‘Hero’ Class Mid-Shore Patrol Vessels that are being built by Irving Shipbuilding for service across Canada.  The Coast Guard ‘Hero’ Class vessels are named after Canadian heroes who have given the ultimate sacrifice for Canada.

Corporal Mark Robert McLaren, M.M.V., of Peterborough, Ontario was killed on December 5, 2008 in Kandahar Province, Afghanistan when his Canadian-Afghan patrol was ambushed.  During the attack, Corporal McLaren crawled through enemy fire to aid his team’s interpreter, who was seriously injured.  He was awarded the Medal of Military Valour.

Corporal McLaren's parents and members of his family were on hand to see the CCGS Corporal McLaren M.M.V. enter the water for the first time.  The family was also very touched to have the opportunity to board the vessel during their visit.

For more information on the Coast Guard's Midshore Patrol Vessel Program, visit their [website].

Alan and Jo-Anne McLaren, parents of Corporal Mark Robert McLaren, M.M.V.