HMCS YORK

History The history of the naval reserve in Toronto dates to the establishment of a Royal Canadian Navy Volunteer Reserve Half company in the city on 10 April 1923. At the outbreak of the Second World War, the unit was moved to the Automotive Building on the grounds of the Canadian National Exhibition, and in 1942 was commissioned as HMCS YORK in recognition of local history. During World War II YORK distinguished itself as one of the premiere naval recruiting depots in the British Commonwealth; almost 17,000 men and women joined the Navy at YORK. HMCS YORK moved to its current location in 1947. The first Naval Reserve air squadron, VC 920, was formed at YORK in 1953 and continued as part of YORK's establishment until being disbanded in 1963. This squadron was equipped with Avengers and had the distinction of being the only Naval Reserve air squadron to achieve carrier qualification. HMCS YORK has a strength of approximately 196 officers and NCMs with many serving on full-time service, on both coasts, at Naval Reserve Headquarters and at Borden. The ship's company is diverse and reflects the cultural diversity of Toronto. HMCS YORK has two missions. First and foremost is Force Generation - recruit and train personnel in support the Naval Reserve's mission to crew the Kingston Class coastal defence vessels and to provide personnel for Port Security and Naval Control and Guidance to Shipping (NCAGS) tasks. Several of our officers and sailors have been deployed to the coasts and to Ottawa, as part of the Canadian Forces operations related to Canada's contribution to the campaign against terrorism. YORK's second mission is to enhance the Navy's presence in the Toronto area. Fortunately, YORK is home to one of the Naval Reserve's four bands. This talented and dedicated group of musicians parade in support of local events throughout the year. Our Training, Operations and Logistics departments support the community involvement mission as well. The men and women of HMCS YORK contribute to our community and our country in a wide range of civilian endeavours, and as proud members of Canada's Navy. YORK also supports two lodger units, the VANGUARD Sea Cadets Corps and the 618 Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron, as well as the Canadian Forces Sailing Association.