True and Fascinating Canadian History
Lieutenant-General Frances Jennifer Allen
Vice Chief of Canada's Defense Staff
A couple years ago, one of our Ottawa neighbours invited me to a small, private luncheon at the Chateau Laurier in Ottawa, ON. Our neighbour said, "There is someone I'd like you to meet."
As I entered the Chateau, I presumed the mystery person whom I was about to meet was a retired member of the RCMP. I wasn't too nervous though, after all I had already met and had lunch or shared a Regimental Dinner with all of the RCMP Commissioners going back to George B. McClellan in the mid 1960's. So, I thought to myself, "There can't be anyone else whom I've never met." Well, was I ever wrong this time!"
During our lunch, then Brigadier General Frances Jennifer Allen stood up to say a few words. She was at ease, articulate, humourous and sensitive. She spoke of her family, her career, her aspirations in life, and her professional goals. All without notes, I noticed. I think everyone at our table was in awe, at least I was. As Francis Allen spoke, I thought to myself, "You are one smart cookie." Once more I was extremely proud to be a Canadian.
Now holding the rank of Lieutenant-General, Frances Allen is a graduate of Queen's University. She graduated in 1987 with an Honours Degree in Statistics. That in itself is no easy feat, but she did it.
Meeting General Allen over lunch one day was an extraordinary highlight in my life. Today, she is the first woman Vice Chief of Canada's Defense Staff -- that's only a small step from the highest rank in the Canadian Armed Forces. And, she is on right on track for more success in the future. You can bet on her!
J. J. Healy,
March, 2021