BEDFORD BASIN, HALIFAX – Gregory Applin, Petty Officer Second Class, who died on Friday, January 24, 2025, during small boat operations in the Bedford Basin, Halifax, Nova Scotia. The incident occurred when a rigid-hull inflatable boat capsized, claiming the life of the 19-year veteran of dedicated service.
PO 2 Applin, a Weapons Engineering Technician, was serving aboard His Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Montréal at the time of his death. He had recently returned from a deployment to the Indo-Pacific under Operation HORIZON, a testament to his dedication and service to Canada. Over his distinguished career, Applin sailed nearly 500 days aboard HMC Ships, including HMCS Halifax and HMCS Toronto, and served as an instructor at Naval Fleet School Atlantic.
“My thoughts are with the family, friends, and shipmates of Petty Officer Gregory Applin,” said Vice-Admiral Angus Topshee, Commander of the Royal Canadian Navy. “We are reminded that the work we do is dangerous, and the tragic loss of one of our own so close to home will leave a lasting imprint on our entire Navy family.”
The incident occurred around 10:00 p.m. local time during small boat operations, which are an essential but inherently risky part of naval training and operations. According to the Department of National Defence, the rigid-hull inflatable boat carrying Applin and another sailor overturned and capsized. The Joint Rescue Coordination Centre (JRCC) Halifax quickly coordinated a rescue effort, dispatching Canadian Coast Guard vessels to the scene.
Both sailors were located and brought to the Mill Cove jetty, where paramedics provided immediate medical assistance. They were then transferred to the Queen Elizabeth II Health Sciences Centre. Tragically, despite the efforts of first responders, PO 2 Applin could not be resuscitated. The second sailor was treated and released from the hospital.
General Jennie Carignan, Chief of the Defence Staff, expressed her condolences, stating, “The loss of Petty Officer Gregory Applin is a heartbreaking moment for the entire Canadian Armed Forces. His lifelong dedication to service, alongside his death, reminds us all of the sacrifices that our members and their families make in service to Canada. My deepest sympathies to his family and friends.”
PO 2 Applin leaves behind a loving family, countless friends, and colleagues who remember him as a dedicated professional and a cherished member of the RCN community. His passing has sent shockwaves through the Navy, highlighting the dangers faced by those who serve and the profound impact of such a loss.
The Military Police are currently investigating the incident to determine the circumstances surrounding the capsizing. While the investigation is ongoing, the RCN has emphasized its commitment to ensuring the safety of its personnel and learning from this tragedy to prevent future incidents.
As the RCN grieves the loss of one of its own, the legacy of PO 2 Gregory Applin will endure. His unwavering commitment to service, his contributions to the Navy, and the lives he touched will not be forgotten. In this difficult time, the thoughts and prayers of the entire Canadian Armed Forces are with his family, friends, and shipmates as they navigate this profound loss.
Petty Officer Gregory Applin’s life and service remind us of the courage and sacrifice inherent in military duty. His memory will forever be honored by those who had the privilege of knowing him and by a grateful nation.
