HONOURING LEADERSHIP, STRENGTHENING PARTNERSHIPS
On Friday, July 24, 2026, the Canadian Forces School of Aerospace Control Operations (CFSACO) held its Change of Command Ceremony at the DEV Centre in Cornwall, Ontario. The ceremony marked the formal transition of leadership from outgoing Commanding Officer Lieutenant-Colonel Neil Ryan, MSM, CD, to incoming Commanding Officer Lieutenant-Colonel Matthew Allan, CD.
Representing Akwesasne at the ceremony were Mohawk Council of Akwesasne (MCA) Grand Chief Leonard Lazore, members of the Native North American Travelling College (NNATC), Kelly and Tyson Back of Fire Loom Creations, and U.S. Korean War Veteran Peter Back Sr.
Members of NNATC opened and closed the ceremony with a traditional prayer while sharing its meaning and significance with those in attendance. This was especially meaningful, as Colonel Ryan believed it was important for military students and staff to learn about the neighbouring Mohawk community and its traditions. Throughout his time as Commanding Officer, he encouraged opportunities for cultural learning and relationship building by visiting NNATC, participating in the Stomp Dance, develop the annual Friendship Lacrosse Game at the A'nowara’ko:wa Arena, and taking part in Akwesasne's Memorial Day Parade alongside local veterans.
As a gesture of appreciation, Kelly Back of Fire Loom Creations presented Colonel Ryan with a handcrafted community belt that symbolized the friendships and connections built throughout his tenure. The belt depicts Colonel Ryan surrounded by the St. Lawrence River and features poppies representing the Canadian Armed Forces and beaded pins by the NNATC, lacrosse sticks symbolizing the Friendship Lacrosse Game, and Stomp Dancers commemorating his first visit to NNATC. The Two Row Wampum represents the enduring friendship between Akwesasne and CFSACO. Making the gift even more meaningful, each row of beadwork was completed by members of both communities, with contributions from 41 military students and staff and 19 Akwesasró:non, including MCA Grand Chief Leonard Lazore.
The Mohawk Council of Akwesasne extends its sincere appreciation to Colonel Ryan for his commitment to fostering meaningful relationships based on mutual respect, cultural understanding, and collaboration. His leadership has helped create lasting partnerships and opportunities for learning between CFSACO and the Akwesasne community. We wish Colonel Ryan continued success in his future endeavours and congratulate Lieutenant-Colonel Allan as he assumes command. The Mohawk Council of Akwesasne looks forward to creating new opportunities to learn from one another.
