Civilian Service & Defence Leadership with HCol Corinne MacLellan

In this episode of Purpose & Protection, host Barry Pitcher, CEO of Commissionaires Nova Scotia, speaks with Corinne MacLellan, a communications strategist and Honorary Lieutenant Colonel of the Halifax Rifles, about the essential role of civilian leadership in Canada’s defence and security landscape.

Corinne shares her journey of service, including her work in public affairs, Indigenous relations, and military engagement. From founding Halifax International Fleet Week to supporting Canadian Armed Forces reservists through the Canadian Forces Liaison Council, her contributions highlight how civilians can meaningfully support national defence.

Together, they explore the power of storytelling, the importance of community partnerships, and the impact of honorary military roles in strengthening the connection between Canadians and the Armed Forces.

Whether you're in uniform or a civilian, this conversation is a powerful reminder that service to country takes many forms.

Topics Covered: 

• Civilian service and support in defence
• Honourary roles in the Canadian Armed Forces
• Military history and heritage in Nova Scotia
• Indigenous and community engagement
• Reservist support and the With Glowing Hearts program
• Women in public service and defence leadership
• Strategic communications in national security

Links & Resources:

• Commissionaires Nova Scotia: https://commissionaires.ca/podcast 
• About Corinne MacLellan: https://www.canexusgroup.com/corinnemaclellan 
• The Halifax Riffles: https://www.canada.ca/en/army/corporate/5-canadian-division/the-halifax-rifles.html
• Canadian Forces Liaison Council: https://www.canada.ca/en/department-national-defence/services/canada-reserve-force/about-canadian-forces-liaison-council.html 
• Service and Sacrifice: Extraordinary Nova Scotians in the Great War by Ken Hynes: https://halifax.bibliocommons.com/v2/record/S135C2132625 
• Lieutenant Colonel Roderick Campbell McLeod: https://www.veterans.gc.ca/en/remembrance/memorials/canadian-virtual-war-memorial/detail/360302 
• Army Museum, Halifax Citadel: https://armymuseumhalifax.ca/ 
• RA Park and South Barracks: https://hmhps.ca/sites/RA-park-and-south-barracks-area 
• Honourary Appointments: https://www.canada.ca/en/services/defence/caf/showcasing/honorary-appointments.html 
• CADPAD: https://www.canada.ca/en/army/news-publications/2024/02/cadpat-mt-uniforms.html 
• Mes Kit: https://www.canada.ca/en/services/defence/caf/military-identity-system/dress-manual/chapter-5/annex-b.html 
• With Glowing Hearts Program: https://www.canada.ca/en/department-national-defence/services/canada-reserve-force/supporting-reservists/with-glowing-hearts.html 
• Sam Glode: https://thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/samuel-glode  
• Alex Decoteau: https://thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/alex-decoteau  
• Operation Bluenose: https://ns.legion.ca/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/ABMO_50_-_2020_-_Operation_Bluenose-4c1.pdf

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Presented by Commissionaires Nova Scotia

Produced by Podstarter

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What is Purpose & Protection?

Commissionaires Nova Scotia proudly presents Purpose & Protection, a podcast dedicated to the people behind Canada’s security: veterans, their families, civilians and all those dedicated to keeping our communities safe. Each episode explores the lived experiences of those who’ve served, those who support them, and those shaping the future of Canada’s security landscape. From the frontlines to the home front, you’ll hear stories of resilience, leadership and purpose.

As the largest private employer of veterans in Nova Scotia and Canada’s only not-for-profit security provider, Commissionaires is committed to providing meaningful employment to Canadian Armed Forces, Royal Canadian Mounted Police, their families and Canadians wishing to contribute to the security and wellbeing of Canadians.

Join Barry Pitcher, CEO of Commissionaires Nova Scotia, as he speaks with veterans, security professionals and thought leaders about:
-Life after service – veteran transition, support, and new opportunities
-Canada’s changing security landscape – challenges and innovations
-The civilian role in safety – how communities can contribute and support
Leadership and purpose – serving with integrity and protecting what matters

Whether you are a veteran, a supporter or simply curious about the people protecting our communities Purpose & Protection offers insight, inspiration and connection.