Captain Justin Hanlon is an Air Combat Systems Officer aboard HMCS CALGARY’s embarked air detachment, planning, coordinating and directing the missions of the embarked CH-148 Cyclone detachment, along with operating the precision tactical navigation systems, sensors, communication systems, electronic warfare equipment, and weapon delivery systems.Photo taken on 14 June, 2021 in the Arabian Sea during OPERATION ARTEMIS and part of Combined Task Force 150.Please credit: Corporal Lynette Ai Dang, Her Majestys Canadian Ship CALGARY, Imagery Technician ©2021 DND/MDN CANADA

Sparwood local takes part in counter-terrorism mission

Justin Hanlon has been aboard the HMCS Calgary in the Middle East

  • Jul. 6, 2021 12:00 a.m.

Sparwood’s own Captain Justin Hanlon of the Canadian Armed Forces has been making a difference aboard the HMCS Calgary in the Middle East.

Capt. Hanlon, who is a maritime helicopter Tactical Coordinator (TACCO), is part of the Calgary’s embarked CH-148 Cyclone helicopter air detachment which has been playing a key role in the success of the recently concluded operation ARTEMIS, searching for suspicious smuggling vessels at sea.

According to an armed forces spokesperson, Hanlon has been responsible for planning operations and flying as part of the air crew to execute them.

“I’ve always been fascinated by the military. The fact that I was so passionate about it and that Royal Military College (RMC) actually paid me to go to school helped get my mom on board,” said Hanlon.

“The most rewarding aspect for me is that the air det and the ship have had immense success on Operation ARTEMIS and it was great to be a part of that in an immediate way,” he said.

Hanlon attended high school in Sparwood – where his parents still reside. While in the valley, he was involved with the 279 Elk Valley Royal Air Cadet Squadron, which inspired him to attend RMC in Kington, Ontario.

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