Retiring 8-Wing CFB Trenton commander Col. Colin Keiver (C) is presented with a parting gift from Quinte West Mayor Jim Harrison (R) and Deputy Mayor Jim Alyea on behalf of the city at the meeting on Monday June 19, 2017. (Photo: Nicole Kleinsteuber / Quinte News)
Quinte West bid a fond farewell to retiring CFB Trenton Col. Colin Keiver and 8 Wing Chief Warrant Officer Darcy Elder Monday night.
At council, Mayor Jim Harrison and members of the horseshoe expressed the City’s appreciation for two men’s commitment to the community and the armed forces.
Col. Keiver will be appointed to Director of the Defence Program at the National Defence Headquarters in Ottawa following a change of command ceremony at CFB Trenton on July 14. Lieutenant-Colonel Mark Goulden will succeed Col. Keiver. Elder’s final day is set for August 1.
“We appreciate all that you have done for us,” said Mayor Jim Harrison.
“You are certainly pillars in our community,” expressed Deputy Mayor Jim Alyea. “You fit in like you’ve always been here and you’re always welcome back.”
Retiring 8-Wing Chief Warrant Officer Darcy Elder (C) is presented with a parting gift by Quinte West Mayor Jim Harrison (R) and Deputy Mayor Jim Alyea (L) at the council meeting on Monday June 19, 2017. (Photo: Nicole Kleinsteuber / Quinte News)
“Darcy you’re a mountain of a man but a gentle giant with a big heart,” stated Councillor Duncan Armstrong. “Col. Keiver you brought the level of class, dignity and respect that is demanded of a base commander. You are a true role model for our Canadian Forces and have enhanced the morale within our community.” Pointing to Col. Keiver and his wife Jennifer’s dedication to community initiatives such as the Trenton Memorial Hospital Foundation, the Invisible Ribbon Gala and Volunteer and Information Quinte, Armstrong said their presence will be missed. “But I don’t think we’ve seen the end of you.”
Col. Keiver expressed his sincerest thanks on behalf of himself, his wife Jennifer, Elder, Elder’s wife Tammy and their children.
“This place is not just a community,” smiled Col. Keiver. “It’s home and it’s sincerely appreciated.”
Looking back at the past two years as commander, Keiver says there are many things that stick out – the first being the 2016 Quinte International Airshow.
Following the meeting, Jennifer Keiver smiled promising that the Keivers will return.
“Not to live, but definitely to visit,” she beamed.
