Media are invited to attend the unveiling of the Sir William Stephenson Commemorative Plaque and the dedication of Sir William Stephenson Square on the 42nd anniversary of the founding of CSIS

Ottawa, ON –  Members of the media are invited to attend a special ceremony marking the unveiling of the Sir William Stephenson Commemorative Plaque and the official dedication of Sir William Stephenson Square at the CSIS National Memorial Cemetery at Beechwood Cemetery.

Held on the 42nd anniversary of the founding of the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS), the ceremony will honour the remarkable legacy of Sir William Stephenson, the legendary Canadian intelligence officer known internationally by the codename “Intrepid.” Through his leadership of British Security Coordination (BSC) during the Second World War, Stephenson transformed Allied intelligence cooperation, forging vital partnerships between Canada, the United Kingdom, and the United States. His work helped shape modern intelligence practices and strengthened the collaboration that contributed to Allied victory.

The unveiling of the commemorative plaque and the dedication of Sir William Stephenson Square recognize his enduring contribution to Canada’s national security history and provide a fitting tribute on the anniversary of the creation of Canada’s civilian intelligence service.

On July 16, 1984, the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) officially began operations under the CSIS Act, marking a new chapter in Canada’s approach to national security and intelligence. Forty-two years later, this anniversary offers an opportunity to reflect not only on the evolution of Canada’s intelligence community, but also on the extraordinary legacy of individuals like Sir William Stephenson, whose vision, leadership, and innovation helped lay the groundwork for the intelligence partnerships that continue to protect democratic nations today.

The ceremony will bring together representatives from Canada’s intelligence, defence, and security communities, veterans, dignitaries, diplomatic representatives, and invited guests to commemorate one of Canada’s most influential figures in intelligence history.

Event Details

What:
Unveiling of the Sir William Stephenson Commemorative Plaque and Dedication of Sir William Stephenson Square

Date:
Thursday, July 16, 2026

Time:
10:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.

Location:
CSIS National Memorial Cemetery
Beechwood Cemetery
280 Beechwood Avenue
Ottawa, Ontario

Photo Opportunities

• Unveiling of the Sir William Stephenson Commemorative Plaque
• Official dedication of Sir William Stephenson Square
• Remarks from ceremony speakers
• Representatives from Canada’s intelligence, defence, and security communities
• Official group photographs

Media Availability

Media interviews will be available immediately following the ceremony, subject to speaker availability.

About the CSIS National Memorial Cemetery

Established through a partnership between the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS), the Pillar Society, and the Beechwood Cemetery Foundation, the CSIS National Memorial Cemetery is Canada’s national place of remembrance for members of the intelligence community. It honours those who have served Canada’s national security interests, often without public recognition, while providing a permanent place of remembrance for families, colleagues, and future generations. As part of Canada’s National Cemetery, it preserves and shares the history of intelligence service and its contribution to the security of Canada.

Media Contact

Nicolas McCarthy
Director of Marketing, Communications and Community Outreach
Beechwood Cemetery Foundation

Email: nmccarthy@beechwoodottawa.ca
Office: 613-696-0112