OTTAWA, ON (November 30, 2022): We at the Macdonald-Laurier Institute are saddened to hear of the passing of Eric Lerhe, a Munk Senior Fellow at the Institute and a retired naval officer.
Eric served with distinction during his career as Commodore in the Royal Canadian Navy and Commander of the Canadian Pacific Fleet, at National Defence Headquarters as Director of NATO Policy, and in other senior roles. In retirement, he completed a PhD at Dalhousie University, wrote extensively on Canadian defence policy, naval strategy, and international security issues more broadly, and will be fondly remembered for being a committed champion for the Navy and for Canada’s international interests.
“I first knew Eric during my time as a fellow doctoral candidate at Dalhousie University,” says MLI Senior Editor David McDonough. “I’ve always had the highest respect for Eric as an academic and defence expert – and I know I’m not alone. I think the Canadian security and defence community is now notably worse with his passing.”
Eric Lerhe was the author of two well-received MLI reports during his time at the Institute: Canada’s approach to Pacific Security: In the absence of a plan, a modest proposal and Rethinking the Taiwan Question: How Canada can update its rigid “One-China” policy for the 21st century. He also wrote op-eds, served as a peer-reviewer for defence-focused papers and was a participant at panel events and webinars.
“Eric was a great Canadian who combined dedicated service with a diligent passion for research, particularly in the fields of Indo-Pacific security, maritime strategy, and NATO,” says MLI Director of the Indo-Pacific Program and Senior Fellow, Jonathan Berkshire Miller. “I extend my deepest condolences to his family and loved ones.”
According to MLI Managing Director Brian Lee Crowley, “Eric Lerhe was a dedicated Canadian and patriot. His distinguished career working in defence of our country was testament to the passion he felt for Canada. We were proud that he chose to work with us to ensure powerful and knowledgeable voices were raised on behalf of this country’s defence and security interests.
“Eric Lerhe’s passing leaves a great void for us all. He will be missed.”
From all of us at MLI, we extend our heartfelt condolences to his wife Nancy Lerhe and all of his family and friends who survive him.”
To extend a message of condolence to his family, please follow the link here.
