News

Lindsay Groves, Lookout Newspaper.   Defence Team members and community allies gathered at Clover Point for Red Dress Day in solidarity with MMIWG2S+ awareness. The event emphasized healing through movement, reflection, and community connection under the theme “Movement is Medicine.” - At Clover Point on May 5, members and allies of the Indigenous Community and the Defence Team gathered for the event, “Movement is Medicine,” in recognition of Red Dress Day — the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and 2SLGBTQIA+ people (MMIWG2S+). This event, coordinated by Caitlin Hancock of Fleet Maintenance Facility (FMF), aimed to raise awareness of MMIWG2S+, support the effort to end gendered and racialized violence against Indigenous peoples, and encourage healing, reflection, and community support. Participants were invited to wear red, walk, run, or wheel in solidarity. Sergeant (Sgt) Nate (Nathan) Spence, a member of the Sandy Bay First Nation in Manitoba (Man.) and the Military Co-Chair of the Pacific region's Defence Indigenous Advisory Group (DIAG), opened the event with a land acknowledgement spoken in his Anishinaabemowin language. He then shared his own deep connection to Red Dress Day. “For me, this movement is not abstract,” he said. “It is not symbolic. It is personal.” His aunt, Charlene Ward-Lake, was murdered on Nov 1, 2007 — “a day forever engraved in my mind, my heart, and my soul,” Sgt Spence shared. He continued to share how the violence of that day did not end with her passing. It flowed through her loved ones, leaving Ward-Lake’s daughters without their mother and her grandchildren without their grandmother. Those left behind are now without Ward-Lake’s “laughter, her warmth, and the joy she brought,” Sgt Spence said. Instead, her family is left “with an absence that cannot be filled.” Sgt Spence continued, saying that within...

Archana Cini, Lookout Newspaper. Contributions by the Naval Association of Canada Defence members, veterans, and civilians gathered at the B.C. Legislature for the annual Battle of the Atlantic remembrance ceremony. RAdm David Patchell reflected on the endurance, sacrifice, and vigilance required during the Second World War. The ceremony connected the legacy of wartime service to today’s evolving maritime security environment. - Beneath clear skies at the British Columbia (B.C.) Legislature, Defence Team members, their families, veterans, and civilians gathered for the Battle of the Atlantic remembrance ceremony.  Held annually on the first Sunday in May, the ceremony commemorated the thousands of Canadians who served during the longest continuous campaign of the Second World War — nearly six years of conflict at sea.   [caption id="attachment_336179" align="alignleft" width="600"] Members of the RCN salute during the Battle of the Atlantic remembrance ceremony held on May 3. Photo: MS Bryan Underwood, MARPAC Imaging[/caption] Over the course of the conflict, the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) helped escort thousands of convoys across the Atlantic, protecting vital supply lines between North America and Europe from German U-boat attacks.   Addressing attendees during the ceremony, Rear-Admiral (RAdm) David Patchell, Commander of Maritime Forces Pacific/Joint Task Force Pacific (MARPAC/JTF(P)), reflected on both the sacrifice and fortitude of the campaign.  “The Battle of the Atlantic was a campaign defined not by single moments, but by unrelenting endurance and quiet courage,” said RAdm Patchell. “It was fought across a vast, unforgiving ocean, far from the public eye, where danger was constant and reassurance was scarce.”  Today, the RCN is credited with destroying 33 U-boats and 42 surface ships through the end of the war, by which time more than 110,000 Canadians had taken part in the campaign. However, the cost of the war was immense. The Navy lost 34 vessels and more than 2,000 sailors, while the Royal...

Archana Cini, Lookout Newspaper.  An annual memorial ceremony marks 81 years since the sinking of HMCS Esquimalt and honours 44 sailors lost. Story highlights what followed the tragedy, including U-190’s capture and role in Canadian naval training. Powerful examples of reconciliation show how remembrance often extends beyond loss and into shared humanity and legacy. - Almost 81 years after His Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Esquimalt sunk within sight of the Canadian shoreline, members of the Defence community, local leadership, and island residents gathered in the Township of Esquimalt to remember the ship’s crew and reflect on something larger than the tragedy alone.  The annual ceremony marked the sinking of the Bangor-class minesweeper, torpedoed by the German submarine U-190 on April 16, 1945 — just weeks before the end of the Second World War in Europe.   Captain(Navy) (Capt(Navy)) Kevin Whiteside, Commander of Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Esquimalt, shared that the ceremony remains one of the most meaningful events he attends.   “This is one of my favourite ceremonies to be a part of because of how much it means to this township, and this base,” said Capt(Navy) Whiteside. “Though the events of 1945 grow distant in time, their meaning does not.”  [caption id="attachment_335984" align="alignright" width="450"] Captain(Navy) Kevin Whiteside, Commander of CFB Esquimalt, speaks during the HMCS Esquimalt memorial ceremony held on April 16.Photo: Cpl Conor R.G. Munn, CAF Imagery[/caption] Mayor Barbara Desjardins, who has spoken at the annual remembrance ceremony for the past 18 years, emphasized the deep connection between the Township of Esquimalt and the vessel that carried its name.   “The loss of HMCS Esquimalt is significant to the township, not only because she shares our name, but because we recognize the sacrifice and the loss of those who served on her,” she said. “Behind each of these men lost were families; wives, sons, daughters, parents, friends, and...

Archana Cini, Lookout Newspaper. Contributions by Master Warrant Officer Robert James Kerr, Real Property Operations  The Engineers defeated the Bandits 4–3 in a thrilling overtime final to win the 2026 Beaver Cup. The tournament has united military members, veterans, and civilians for over 50 years of tradition. - Competition, camaraderie, and overtime action took over Wurtele Arena as Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Esquimalt hosted the annual Beaver Cup hockey tournament from April 22 to 24.   Four teams, including the Bandits, Engineers, Sappers, and Pioneers, took to the ice in a tournament built on connection as much as competition. Players consisted of Real Property Operations (RP Ops) personnel; active and retired Military Engineers; and members from other units, mixed across the four teams.   “The Beaver Cup hockey tournament was originally initiated in order to maintain espirit de corps,” said Master Warrant Officer (MWO) Robert James Kerr, who noted that the tournament has existed for more than 50 years. “It initially started in the 1970s in Eastern Canada, and in the mid-80s out west.”   From 1996 to 2019, CFB Esquimalt and CFB Comox alternated hosting duties every second year. Since the pandemic, the tournament has been held solely in Esquimalt since 2024.  This year’s iteration of the tournament featured two days of round-robin play, with each team playing four games. The scores concluded with the Bandits topping the standings, followed by the Engineers, Sappers, and Pioneers. This set the stage for Friday’s medal games.   In the championship game, the Engineers defeated the Bandits in overtime to claim the Beaver Cup title 4-3.   [caption id="attachment_335970" align="aligncenter" width="828"] Beaver Cup champions, the Engineers (in red), and runner-up team, the Bandits (in black), pose for a group photo on April 24. Photo: Krista Morgan[/caption] “With a goal waved off in the final minutes of the third period, the finals...

Archana Cini, Lookout Newspaper. Contributions by Lindsay Chung, CFMWS The 2026 Navy Bike Ride returns May 30 to CFB Esquimalt with new national ambassadors and creative event elements. The in-person event supports military charities while bringing together community members, families, and cyclists. Registration is now open. - This year’s Navy Bike Ride (NBR) is getting a fresh burst of creativity, and Esquimalt riders will be among the first to experience it.  The Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) has announced the appointment of the first NBR National Ambassadors: Eric Chan, a Canadian artist known professionally as EEPMON, and Tanya Woods, founder of Project In-Kind The new national ambassador roles are intended to help grow awareness of the annual cycling event; inspire participation across Canada; and strengthen support for the three charitable organizations the ride benefits — the Navalis Foundation, Support Our Troops, and Soldier On — causes that directly support serving members, veterans, and their families.   “Our Navy’s strength lies not only in its operational excellence, but in the people and communities that stand behind it,” said Vice-Admiral (VAdm) Angus Topshee, Commander of the RCN. “EEPMON and Tanya Woods bring leadership, vision, and a deep commitment to service.”   The annual NBR event offers a chance for local residents, Defence Team members, and supporters alike to come together in a positive, active way.   [caption id="attachment_335958" align="alignleft" width="571"] (Left to right) 2026 Navy Bike Ride ambassadors Eric Chan and Tanya Woods. Photo supplied[/caption] For Chan, the mission behind the NBR was an easy one to support. “The dedication of Canada’s sailors and the families who support them inspires me,” he said. “I’m excited to help grow the Navy Bike Ride and support the amazing charitable organizations that make a real difference in people’s lives.”  Woods echoed this sentiment. “The Navy Bike Ride brings Canadians together in such a meaningful way,” she said. “It’s an honour to help...

Captain Pedram Mohyeddin, JTFP Public Affairs Ex CLEARWATER (April 11–17) enhanced CAF readiness in Prince Rupert through joint, multi-domain operations. CAF units and partners improved interoperability across air, land, and sea, including use of emerging technologies. Exercise reinforced maritime domain awareness, supporting Canadian sovereignty and coastal security. - Exercise (Ex) CLEARWATER concluded on April 17 following a week of joint and interagency operations that reinforced the Canadian Armed Forces’ (CAF) ability to observe, monitor, and protect Canada’s western maritime approaches.   Conducted from April 11–17, the exercise was hosted by Joint Task Force Pacific (JTFP) and focused on domain awareness and presence operations in the Prince Rupert maritime area. Ex CLEARWATER brought together members of the Advanced Naval Capabilities Unit (ANC); 4th Canadian Ranger Patrol Group (4CRPG); 39 Canadian Brigade Group (39CBG); 443 Maritime Helicopter Squadron (443MH Sqn); and the Canadian Coast Guard (CCG). Together, the exercise enhanced interoperability and operational readiness in a strategically significant coastal environment. Throughout the exercise, CAF aviators, soldiers, and sailors operated across air, land, and sea to improve their ability to detect, assess, and respond to activity in Canada’s maritime approaches.  Importantly, these efforts directly support Canadian sovereignty and domestic security at a time of increasing maritime traffic and evolving security dynamics in northern and coastal regions.  “Domain awareness is fundamental to sovereignty,” said Rear-Admiral (RAdm) David Patchell, Commander of Maritime Forces Pacific/Joint Task Force Pacific (MARPAC/JTFP). “Exercises like CLEARWATER allow us to train jointly and operate with our partners in realistic conditions, ensuring we remain present, informed, and prepared to safeguard Canada.”  [caption id="attachment_335946" align="aligncenter" width="537"] Highlights from Ex CLEARWATER, conducted from April 11 to 17. Photos: Avr Rebecca Mainardi, MARPAC Imaging[/caption] Sailors from ANC conducted coastal domain awareness and presence operations, integrating both innovative tactics and emerging technologies (including uncrewed systems [UXS]) to support intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance activities....

Archana Cini, Lookout Newspaper Charges have been laid against two RCN sailors following the 2025 death of PO2 Gregory Applin in Halifax Harbour. Vice-Admiral Angus Topshee stresses accountability, the responsibility of leadership, and operational discipline across all levels of the navy. - The death of a sailor in the Halifax harbour last year continues to weigh heavily as charges have now been laid against two sailors.  Petty Officer 2nd Class (PO2) Gregory Applin died on Jan 24, 2025, after the rigid hull inflatable boat (RHIB) he was aboard struck a mooring buoy and capsized in Bedford Basin.  On April 15, 2026, the Canadian Forces Military Police (CF MP) announced charges against two members of the RCN following the conclusion of their investigation. One sailor is charged with criminal negligence causing bodily harm and negligent performance of military duties, while another faces charges of dangerous operation of a conveyance causing death and negligent performance of military duties.  In a message to members of the Defence community, Vice-Admiral (VAdm) Angus Topshee, Commander of the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN), said that though news of the charges is difficult for the entire institution, it also underscores the responsibility carried by all who serve.  “[It] highlights the challenging realities of our service in the Royal Canadian Navy,” VAdm Topshee wrote in a joint message with Chief Petty Officer 1st Class (CPO1) Pascal Harel, Command Chief Petty Officer of the RCN. “We operate in a demanding environment where mistakes and errors can have fatal consequences, and we must be accountable for our actions and our inactions.”  VAdm Topshee said the laying of charges does not determine guilt, and that the military justice system must be allowed to proceed fairly.  “There will be a fair, independent, and impartial process to determine the outcome of these charges, and those accused deserve every opportunity to defend themselves,” he said.  At the same time, VAdm Topshee cautioned against...

Archana Cini, Lookout Newspaper; with files from the Government of Canada  Minister of Veterans Affair Jill McKnight visited CFB Esquimalt following Canada reaching NATO’s 2% defence spending target. Major ongoing and upcoming investments include jetty replacement, military housing expansion, and improved CAF compensation and benefits. Funding will continue to support long-term fleet readiness, modernization, and operations across the Pacific region. - For those serving on the West Coast, the future of defence is already under construction.   On April 1, the Honourable Jill McKnight, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence, visited Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Esquimalt to deliver remarks on the flight deck of His Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Calgary. Joined by Victoria Member of Parliament Will Greaves and Rear-Admiral (RAdm) David Patchell, Commander of Maritime Forces Pacific/Joint Task Force Pacific (MARPAC/JTFP), McKnight spoke to Defence team members and media representatives gathered at B Jetty.   The visit followed Prime Minister Mark Carney’s announcement that Canada has now reached NATO’s two per cent defence spending target in the 2025-26 fiscal year, marking a significant milestone in Canada’s approach to national defence and collective security. For the Defence community of Vancouver Island, the announcement carries direct and visible implications. As such, McKnight’s visit turned this nationwide milestone into a clear explanation on how this national investment will be felt locally — through infrastructure; Defence personnel and community support; and operational readiness.  “Here on the west coast, readiness is essential,” said McKnight. “As such, following Prime Minister Mark Carney’s historic announcement, we’re making targeted investments in personnel. This includes key capabilities and infrastructure that underpin operations in the Pacific.”   One of the most significant local investments is the $1.1 billion investment to replace the aging A and B jetties at CFB Esquimalt, supporting Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) operations and future fleet requirements. With B Jetty commissioned in early 2025 and now fully...

Consolidated with files by the CFB Esquimalt Naval Military Museum and Dignity Memorial  The Esquimalt and Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) community mourns the loss of Vice-Admiral (VAdm) (ret’d) Nigel David Brodeur, a leader and lifelong advocate for Canada’s military whose legacy spans generations of service. He was a member of the Brodeur family, with a long and distinguished history that stretches back to the creation of the RCN itself.  Brodeur passed away peacefully at the age of 93 on March 30, 2026, with family by his side.  Nigel Brodeur was born in Victoria on June 18, 1932, to Victor Gabriel Brodeur (d. 1976) and Doris Brodeur (nee Fages) (d. 1936).  Both Nigel Brodeur’s grandfather, Louis Philippe Brodeur, and father, Victor Gabriel Brodeur, held long and respected ties to the RCN. Louis Philippe was quite literally the ‘Father of the RCN,’ well-known for his service as Prime Minister Wilfrid Laurier’s first Minister of the Naval Service; Victor Gabriel was in the very first cadre of naval cadets to join the service in 1909, and then served at sea and ashore through the two World Wars, rising to become the first Franco-Canadian to make flag rank. Nigel’s own service spanned the entirety of the Cold War, in addition to his influence helping set up the Canadian Patrol Frigate project that remains the backbone of the Canadian fleet today.  Nigel’s father was serving as Commanding Officer of His Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Naden at the time of his birth. In 1950 Nigel entered the Canadian Services College Royal Roads, joining the RCN upon graduation as a midshipman in 1952. Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, Brodeur held a range of operational and leadership roles with the RCN, including service aboard HMCS Sussexvale, HMCS Beacon Hill, and as Weapons Officer aboard HMCS Kootenay during the Cuban Missile...

Lt(Navy) Kayvan Aflaki, Lt(Navy) Raymark Bancolita, and SLt Francesco Dinatale, Royal Canadian Navy RCN Naval Warfare Officers joined the Canadian Lifeboat Institution during the Pacific herring spawn to support SAR operations. Crews responded to real-world emergencies, including a high-risk nighttime medical evacuation at sea. Experience reinforced shared values of leadership, teamwork, and service across military and civilian mariners. - As Naval Warfare Officers serving aboard His Majesty’s Canadian (HMC) Ships Calgary and Vancouver, our careers have largely involved sailing Canada’s territorial waters in support of maritime security and sovereignty. For the first two weeks of March, our post would be aboard a different vessel and in a different role; we joined the Canadian Lifeboat Institution (CLI) as part of a crew assigned to provide search and rescue (SAR) support during the annual Pacific herring spawn.  Our platform was the Delta Lifeboat, operating under the command of John M. Horton, O.B.C., C.S.M.A. Mr. Horton, a British-born Canadian mariner and Royal Navy veteran, has been nationally recognized for his decades of volunteer rescue work with Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue and the CLI. His work as an artist has similarly documented Canada’s maritime heritage.   Under Horton’s leadership, the Delta has assisted countless mariners across the Southern Gulf Islands and Sunshine Coast. Each spring, however, the Pacific herring spawn brings a particularly intense operational tempo. Female Pacific herring deposit millions of eggs on eelgrass and kelp while males release milt to fertilize them, turning the water a distinctive turquoise. The spawn triggers one of the coast’s most important ecological events as seabirds, sea lions, and other marine life converge to feed. First Nations have relied on and managed the spawn for generations using sustainable practices to preserve the stock. With the arrival of commercial fishing fleets, the spawn has morphed into a far busier and more volatile scene, making a dedicated SAR presence increasingly important.   We were welcomed by the...

Rory Theriault, Fleet Maintenance Facility Cape Breton FMF Cape Breton marks 30 years, highlighting the people behind West Coast naval maintenance and engineering. A modern facility completed in 2019, transformed operations, improving RCN efficiency and collaboration. The dockyard’s roots trace back to the 1800s, shaping today’s Pacific Fleet support system. - Editor’s Note: The following story is a shortened adaptation of the original publication found within Volume 8, Issue 03 of The Cape Crusader, Cape Breton Fleet Maintenance Facility’s monthly newsletter.  The Fleet Maintenance Facilities (FMF) were first established on April 4, 1996. Fleet Maintenance Facility Cape Breton (FMFCB) on the Canadian West Coast emerged through an amalgamation of the Ship Repair Unit (Pacific), Naval Engineering Unit (Pacific), and Fleet Maintenance Group (Pacific). Today, FMFCB is organized into seven departments: Production Management; Engineering Management; Operations Management; Supply Chain Management; Unit Support Management; Financial Management; and Strategy Management.   As FMFCB marks its 30th anniversary in 2026, the focus of this milestone is the people who have shaped it since its formation. Every stage of its development has been carried by the individuals who show up every day to support the fleet.   Though FMFCB’s facility has changed – with its capabilities expanded, and the organization having grown into a unified team of more than a thousand civilian employees and one hundred military members – its strength remains within its workforce. This includes not only those who came before and whose skills established the foundation of maintenance and engineering on the West Coast, but also the current employees and apprentices who continue to develop their craft and contribute to the reliability of the Pacific Fleet.   While FMFCB is a strategic asset to the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN), its true value lies in the collective effort of the people who keep ships ready, operations moving, and technical expertise advancing. This anniversary is a recognition...

Archana Cini, Lookout Newspaper. Contributions by Master Sailor Connor Nijsse, USAR  CFB Esquimalt’s USAR team completed a 10-day rope rescue and confined space course toward NFPA 1006 certification. Training across multiple real-world locations built adaptability, problem-solving, and technical rescue skills. The course strengthens MARPAC’s emergency response readiness in complex and high-risk environments. - Performing rescues from high atop the mast of His Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Calgary, members of Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Esquimalt’s Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) Team put their skills to the test.  Over 10 days, eight members of the team completed an intensive Rope Rescue and Confined Space course, working toward National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 1006 certification. The training, delivered in partnership with civilian agency Ronin Rescue, marked a focused opportunity to sharpen a critical capability within the team’s broader disaster response skillset.  Supported daily by two civilian instructors and military personnel gaining on-the-job experience alongside them, the training saw participants progressing through multiple certification levels while also building competency in confined space operations. Training took place across six different locations, including Fleet Maintenance Facility’s (FMF) dry dock and HMCS Calgary, exposing participants to a range of real-world scenarios.  “A key element to our rescue training is providing participants with multiple different locations, scenarios, and instructor experiences,” said Master Sailor (MS) Connor Nijsse, Logistics Chief at the CFB Esquimalt Medium USAR Team. “Often, rescue training is conducted in familiar places, which can lead to complacency. This course gave members the chance to learn from seven different instructors and work in unfamiliar environments.”  Cold, wet conditions added another layer of difficulty to these unfamiliar environments, particularly during high-angle evolutions on ship structures.  “It can be quite cold in the rain up the ship’s mast,” noted MS Nijsse. “But that’s part of the reality — we need to be ready to operate under any conditions.”  Beyond...

Archana Cini, Lookout Newspaper, with files from the Government of Canada Two Republic of Korea Navy vessels will visit CFB Esquimalt from May 23 to June 2 following a 14,000-kilometre trans-Pacific voyage. Joint activities, including personnel exchanges and exercises, will strengthen interoperability with the RCN. The visit supports broader maritime cooperation and force generation, including future participation in the multinational RIMPAC exercise. - A Republic of Korea Navy (ROKN) port visit to Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Esquimalt is planned for later this spring, highlighting Canada’s continued focus on enhancing maritime interoperability and collaboration with allied navies. The visit, scheduled from May 23 to June 2, will see two ROKN vessels arrive in Esquimalt: ROKS Daejeon (FFG-823), a Daegu-class frigate, and ROKS Dosan Ahn Chang-ho (SS-083), a KSS-III class submarine. Both ROKN vessels are currently sailing on a 14,000-kilometre trans-Pacific voyage from Jinhae, South Korea, to Canada’s West Coast. During the port visit, sailors from both navies will take part in a series of professional engagements, strengthening the growing maritime partnership between the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) and ROKN. These interactions will build mutual understanding and enhance interoperability between both parties while also reinforcing their joint shared commitment to regional stability. [caption id="attachment_335136" align="aligncenter" width="975"] ROKS Dosan Ahn Chang-ho at sea making its first trans-Pacific voyage to Canadian shores. Photo supplied.[/caption] A key component of the engagement will be a personnel exchange conducted through the RCN’s REGULUS program, which provides members of the RCN with opportunities to operate alongside allied and partner navies, exposing them to different tactics, techniques, and operational environments in the process. As such, two Canadian sailors will sail with members of the ROKN aboard ROKS Dosan Ahn Chang-ho for the final leg of its journey from Hawaii to CFB Esquimalt. Near the conclusion of the ROKN port...

Consolidated by Archana Cini, Lookout Newspaper.  From the archives of 2002 comes a story that continues to resonate more than two decades later — one shaped by the honest curiosity of children and the candid reflections of a sailor at sea. In this March archival piece, ‘Children’s important questions: HMCS Vancouver responds,’ young Canadians wrote to sailors deployed on Operation Apollo to better understand life at sea. Their questions, heartfelt and often profound, offered a glimpse into how young minds view concepts of service, separation, and sacrifice. Thousands of such letters were received, carefully read by those serving aboard His Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Vancouver. Among the ship’s company during this time was then Lieutenant(Navy) (Lt(Navy)) David Patchell, whose thoughtful and unfiltered responses revealed the shared humanity between sailors deployed abroad and families waiting at home. Today, this Lookout contributor from more than two decades ago serves as a Rear-Admiral (RAdm) in the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) and Commander of Maritime Forces Pacific/Joint Task Force Pacific (MARPAC/JTFP), making this archival story not only a snapshot in time, but part of RAdm Patchell’s ongoing impact upon the Canadian Defence community. As we revisit this archival story, the Lookout is inviting children from the public and Defence communities to submit their own questions to sailors for a modern retelling. - Children’s Important Questions: HMCS Vancouver Responds Editor's note: This article appeared in the March 11, 2002 edition of the Lookout and was written by then Lieutenant (Navy) David Patchell. We picked a few of our favourite questions to feature. Since leaving Victoria on Oct. 29, 2001, HMCS Vancouver has received thousands of letters of support from Canadians. It seems as though the vast majority of these letters are from children. It breaks my heart that I do not have the time to...

Lieutenant(Navy) Mike Makow, CD NRU ASTERIX Bligh Island in Nootka Sound is named after Vice-Admiral (V-Adm) William Bligh, linking B.C.’s coast to global naval history. V-Adm Bligh served under Captain James Cook and later survived the infamous HMS Bounty mutiny, navigating 3,500 nautical miles to safety. The island highlights how exploration and maritime history connect distant regions across the world. - Bligh Island is located in Nootka Sound, on the west coast of Vancouver Island in British Columbia (B.C.). It is situated to the east of Nootka Island, in between the mouths of Muchalat Inlet, Tlupana Inlet, and Tahsis Inlet. While it is a tranquil escape for many today, its name also carries one of the most dramatic tales in local maritime history. Named after Vice-Admiral (VAdm) William Bligh, the island commemorates a man whose legacy spans both scientific achievement and scandalous rebellion. The late VAdm Bligh served as Master aboard His Majesty’s Ship (HMS) Resolution during Captain James Cook’s third voyage in 1778. HMS Resolution was a merchant collier purchased and then converted into a warship by the Royal Navy in 1771. It was in a cove on Bligh Island — now known as Resolution Cove — that the Resolution was refitted, marking VAdm Bligh’s first connection to the rugged shores of Nootka Sound. [caption id="attachment_335119" align="alignleft" width="328"] A portrait of VAdm William Bligh, completed by Alexander Huey in 1814. Credit: National Library of Australia[/caption] But VAdm Bligh’s fame, or infamy, would come nearly a decade later. In 1787, he was appointed commander of HMS Bounty, tasked with transporting breadfruit plants from Tahiti to the British West Indies. After a five-month layover in Tahiti, where the crew enjoyed a relaxed lifestyle and formed relationships with locals, discipline aboard the Bounty began to unravel. On April 28, 1789, Acting Lieutenant...

Archana Cini, Lookout Newspaper. Contributions by Robert Fisher, Historian, and the CFB Esquimalt Naval and Military Museum An upcoming public ceremony on April 16 will mark 81 years since the sinking of HMCS Esquimalt, the last Canadian warship lost in the Second World War. The ship was torpedoed off Halifax in 1945, resulting in the loss of 44 sailors, many to exposure while awaiting rescue. The annual remembrance honours those who served and underscores the lasting impact of war on Canadian communities. - Each year, remembrance asks something of us. It invites us to pause, to reflect, and to carry ourselves with knowledge of the sacrifices and stories that might otherwise fade with time.   At 10 a.m. on April 16, remembrance will once again take shape as members of the Defence community and public are invited to gather in honour of His Majesty's Canadian Ship (HMCS) Esquimalt, the last Canadian warship lost to enemy action in the Second World War. Organized by the Township of Esquimalt and supported by Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Esquimalt, the ceremony will mark 81 years since the ship’s sinking and pay tribute to the sailors who never came home.   HMCS Esquimalt was a Bangor-class minesweeper, one of many vessels tasked with the vital and often dangerous work of keeping sea lanes safe during wartime. Armed with a 12-pounder gun, anti-aircraft weapons, and depth charges, Esquimalt was built for the constant vigilance required during the Battle of the Atlantic. The ship’s crew, comprising seven officers and 64 sailors, included many members of the Royal Canadian Navy Volunteer Reserve (RCNVR).  On the morning of April 16, 1945, Esquimalt was conducting an anti-submarine patrol just five miles off Chebucto Head, near Halifax. The war in Europe was nearing its end; for many, the worst seemed to be over.   But at 6:30 a.m., that sense of distance from danger changed. A torpedo fired from German submarine U-190 struck Esquimalt’s starboard...

Archana Cini, Lookout Newspaper In April 1943, the first edition of what would eventually become the Lookout Newspaper rolled off the press. It was titled the Gangway, an independent, weekly publication that reported on West Coast Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) news, edited by RCN personnel prior to publication. Volume 01, Number 01 was sold for 10 cents per copy, right here in Esquimalt. The first issue of the Gangway was published entirely in black and white ink. The pages of this first edition told stories of a West Coast rescue; paid tribute to sailors who gave their lives for our country; noted a change in command; showcased heart in everyday moments of service; and provided comic relief for those in the Defence community that needed it. Over 80 years later, in 2026, the Lookout Newspaper still tells stories like these. In many ways, the final print issue of the Lookout, dated March 23, 2026, is very similar to its first 1943 issue. At the same time, it could not be more different. Created to inform and connect sailors during a time of rapid growth for the navy, the Gangway quickly became an important link between those serving and the community around them. With the 1950s came an interesting change; the Gangway had been renamed to Dockyard News, and a few sparing splashes of red ink began to appear on pages marking special occasions like Christmas and New Year’s. In addition to Defence community stories, political illustrations; local pageant results; festive comics; religious poems; and advertisements began to share space with stories of Canadian heroism, war, and memory. By 1964, Dockyard News had been renamed one final time to what it lives as today: the Lookout, a simple word that instantly reflected the vigilance and awareness required when spending time at...

Archana Cini, Lookout Newspaper. Contributions by Rodney Venis, Base Public Affairs S1 Andree-Anne Dion-Tessier of HMCS Max Bernays was named Canadian Fleet Pacific (CANFLTPAC) Sailor of the Year for 2025. She received the Captain(Navy) Peter Hinton Memorial Award, honouring leadership, integrity, and commitment to service. S1 Dion-Tessier emphasized teamwork and peer support, highlighting the collective effort behind her recognition. - As the spring rain lifted on March 3, the company of His Majesty’s Canadian Ship Max Bernays assembled to celebrate one of their own: Sailor 1st Class (S1) Andrée-Anne Dion-Tessier, the Canadian Fleet Pacific (CANFLTPAC) 2025 Sailor of the Year. The mid-morning ceremony highlighted not only S1 Dion-Tessier’s dedication to service during the past year, but also the teamwork and camaraderie that define life aboard Max Bernays. During the event, in recognition of the CANFLTPAC honour, she was presented with the Captain(Navy) (Capt(Navy)) Peter Hinton Memorial Award for Leadership and Excellence in Service, which is typically bestowed to junior non-commissioned members who demonstrate ethical leadership, integrity and commitment to duty. The award, and accompanying sword of the same name, is presented annually by Geraldine Hinton, the wife of the late Capt(Navy) Peter Hinton, in whose memory she helped establish the award to commemorate his deep legacy of service to the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN). She was joined during this year’s ceremony by Capt(Navy) Sam Patchell, Commander CANFLTPAC, who also helped deliver notification to S1 Dion-Tessier that she would be receiving a Commander of the Royal Canadian Navy (CRCN) Commendation. When S1 Dion-Tessier first learned that she had been selected for the distinctions, her reaction was one of amazement and gratitude. “I was honoured and a little surprised,” she said. “It wasn’t something I expected. During the deployment, my focus was simply on doing my job and giving my best to...

The Lookout Newspaper and Creative Services Team - With more than 80 years of publishing, the Lookout has told thousands of stories, from major naval events that have defined Canada to quieter moments of service that capture the spirit of our local Defence community. As we close the final print chapter of the Lookout and move towards a digital-only publication, some members of our current team chose a piece from the past 82 years — a quote or memory that stayed long after the page was printed. Some made us laugh, others made us proud, many made us cry, and a few reminded us why history matters. Without further ado, here are some reflections from the stories that stayed with us. - ARCHANA CINI, DIGITAL MEDIA AND MARKETING COORDINATOR "I have never been a religious person, but flipping a big stack of paper open to this line did feel like fate: 'O star of wonder, star of night, star with royal beauty bright; Westward leading, still proceeding, guide us to thy perfect light.' It felt so fitting for the Lookout’s ever-changing trajectory. This poem is from a 1964 story that to me, represents precious family history, a reminder to cease worrying, and holds a little bit of magic at once." 1964: Pacific Command Lookout Volume 09, Number 22. "THE STAR STILL SHINES" by Chaplain C.F. Waite Men, for centuries have been fascinated by the stars. It is not hard to see why: by their beauty, if not by anything else; by their arrangement in patterns. The silent stars take us back to that first Christmas and the wise Matthew who studied them closely. These "wise men from the past" believed that heavenly bodies had a great deal to do with human lives. They knew the moon affected tides; that without...

Archana Cini, Lookout Newspaper Sgt Dan Jacklin raised $2,250 for the Esquimalt Military Family Resource Centre through an onboard ice cream stand aboard HMCS Regina. The initiative, which began as a morale booster, has raised over $13,000 for various charities since 2017. The donation reflects both community generosity and personal gratitude for the EMFRC’s support to military families during deployments. - What began as a simple way to brighten a sailor’s day at sea has since turned into thousands of dollars raised for charity. On March 3 at the Colwood Pacific Activity Centre (CPAC), Sergeant (Sgt) Dan Jacklin presented a $2,250 donation to the Esquimalt Military Family Resource Centre (EMFRC) — proceeds from an ice cream stand he currently runs aboard His Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Regina. Sgt Jacklin, the ship’s Senior Meteorological Forecaster, has spent nearly a decade scooping ice cream for his shipmates during deployments, turning a small morale booster into a now longstanding charitable tradition. Sgt Jacklin took over the effort in 2017 from Sgt Michael Foulkes who was posted off the ship later that year. Since then, over $13,000 has been raised for various causes. “I mostly do it because I enjoy it,” said Sgt Jacklin. “People onboard often really look forward to having a break from the ship’s routine, no matter how small. Sometimes getting a Häagen-Dazs or Melona ice cream can do it.” Sgt Jacklin’s military service spans nearly four decades. He first joined the Army Reserves in 1987 with the Royal Highland Fusiliers of Canada before transitioning to the Regular Force in 2007. In 2012, Sgt Jacklin later transitioned into the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) as a Meteorological Technician, a role that eventually brought him back to sea in support of naval operations. Over the years, Sgt Jacklin has brought the ice...

Archana Cini, Lookout Newspaper The NDWCC at CFB Esquimalt raised over $111,000 through donations and fundraising events from Sept–Dec 2025. Defence Team members participated in creative initiatives, including a Chili Cook-Off, to support local charities. Funds will remain on Vancouver Island to support programs addressing health, well-being, and community needs. - Hundreds of charitable donations from Defence team members across Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Esquimalt culminated into something powerful on Feb 17 — more than $111,000 in funds presented to community charities on Vancouver Island. The National Defence Workplace Charitable Campaign (NDWCC) is an annual opportunity for Defence team members to support causes close to their hearts. Through the NDWCC, members can donate to more than 86,000 registered charities across Canada, including organizations with strong ties to the military community. At CFB Esquimalt, the NDWCC ran from Sept 11 2025 to Dec 31 2025, with staff and volunteers across the local Defence team contributing countless hours to help plan and run associated activities. Generosity came in many forms, from individual donations to creative fundraising events organized across the base. For Matt Carlson, CFB Esquimalt’s NDWCC team leader, one word best captures the months-long charitable journey: resilience.   “Our campaign faced challenges early on as well as throughout its duration, yet our Defence team members continued to show up — giving their time, their energy, and their resources to help strengthen the community around them,” said Carlson. This year’s campaign theme, Give a little. Change a lot!, served as a reminder that meaningful change often comes from many small acts of generosity. As such, Carlson noted that coordinating a campaign of this scale often comes with its own challenges. “The toughest part of managing a campaign this large is balancing competing priorities while everyone is already carrying heavy workloads,” said Carlson....

MCpl Joline Couture, 4CRPG MCpl Joline Couture reflects on the 10-day CRBMI Course and its transformative impact on candidates. Participants learn navigation, drill, first aid, and military fundamentals. The course builds resilience, leadership, and lifelong bonds, turning strangers into Rangers. - It has been three years since I was a candidate on the Canadian Ranger Basic Military Indoctrination (CRBMI) Course. The jitters of stepping into something new and well out of my comfort zone come rushing back as I watch a new group of candidates arrive through the front gates, unsure what to do next. Their eyes are wide, footing uncertain. Unbeknownst to them, they are about to meet people who will soon feel like family. These candidates will come together for the next 10 days with one common goal: to learn the basics of what it is to be a Canadian Ranger. [caption id="attachment_334444" align="alignright" width="450"] A photo of Canadian Ranger Basic Military Indoctrination (CRBMI) candidates practicing drill. Photo: Canadian Ranger Seargent (Sgt) Chris Buker.[/caption] The candidates bring a diverse range of past experiences and perspectives to the CRBMI. Some own businesses; others have requested vacation time; a few stay-at-home parents have left their families for the first time; others are retired and feel the pull to give back to their communities; a few are just stepping out into the world. They arrive in civilian clothing, but they are dressed in the red Canadian Ranger uniform just hours later. Orders are not familiar to them yet, but the coordination of the drill for the next 10 days begins immediately. The 0600 hours wake-up comes far too early as they adjust to the sounds around them: the uncomfortableness of unfamiliar beds; constant sounds in the night from adjacent bunkmates; the hum of the EXIT sign above the door. The morning...

LCdr Linda Coleman, MARPAC Public Affairs Rear-Admiral David Patchell hosted Premier David Eby at Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Esquimalt to showcase Canada’s West Coast naval hub. Discussions highlighted fleet readiness, submarine infrastructure plans, economic impact, and skilled trades growth. Leaders emphasized environmental stewardship and collaboration with Indigenous Nations in B.C. - Rear-Admiral (RAdm) David Patchell, Commander Maritime Forces Pacific and Joint Task Force Pacific (MARPAC/JTFP), welcomed the Premier of British Columbia, David Eby, to Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Esquimalt on Dec 11, 2025, for a first official visit highlighting the strategic, economic, and environmental importance of Canada’s West Coast naval hub. The Premier was accompanied by MLA Darlene Rotchford, Parliamentary Secretary for Armed Forces Development and Veteran’s Affairs. “I was very pleased to welcome Premier Eby to Maritime Forces Pacific,” said RAdm Patchell. “This visit was an important opportunity to showcase the strategic significance of our West Coast naval hub, the work our sailors and civilians do every day, and the strong connection between the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) and the Province of British Columbia.” During the visit, Premier Eby was taken on a sail through Esquimalt Harbour aboard an Orca-class training vessel, where he received a comprehensive tour and briefing on the RCN’s assets and operations on the West Coast. Joining the sail were Base Commander Captain (Navy) (Capt(Navy)) Kevin Whiteside, Doug Young, King’s Harbour Master, and Mike Bodman, manager of Base Safety, Environment and Indigenous Relations. While underway, Premier Eby received an overview of CFB Esquimalt, the Dockyard, and harbour operations, emphasizing the base’s central role in training, readiness, and fleet support and maintenance. It was noted that Esquimalt is an exceptional location for training sailors and highlighted the critical importance of training vessels in meeting the RCN’s future personnel demands. It was emphasized to Premier Eby that...

LCdr Linda Coleman, MARPAC Public Affairs, with contributions from Lindsay Groves, Lookout Newspaper The Honourable Minister David J. McGuinty met with RCN members, families, and civilian staff to discuss defence investment and quality-of-life priorities. He toured Fleet Diving Unit (Pacific), Esquimalt Harbour recapitalization projects, and FMF Cape Breton facilities. The visit reinforced Canada’s growing defence investment, fleet modernization, and Pacific naval readiness. - Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Esquimalt was buzzing with energy on Feb 19 as the Minister of National Defence David J. McGuinty arrived for a full day of engagement with the Defence team. From early‑morning conversations with Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) sailors to hands‑on tours of key operational facilities, the visit underscored a moment of major renewal for Canada’s navy and the people who serve it. The day started with a town hall at the Colwood Pacific Activity Centre - Esquimalt (CPAC) to connect with members and families from His Majesty’s Canadian (HMC) Ships Ottawa, Vancouver, Calgary and Regina. “We asked Canadians: What should we do with our Armed Forces? They told us, invest in them,” said the Minister. “Yes, you’ll hear about big procurements, billions of dollars in acquisitions, but we also need to invest in you, because we can’t do this without you... I am focused on your quality of life.” The Minister spoke about the changes he wants to see in the years ahead. While acknowledging the scale of the transformation, he noted, “it’s a complicated structure” and asked members to “be patient with us” as it will be a “big turnaround.” “But here’s the best news,” Minister McGuinty added. “I couldn’t believe how easy it is to implement and execute change because of you. Members are trained to execute.” [caption id="attachment_334429" align="alignleft" width="600"] The Honourable David McGuinty, Minister of National Defence (MND) speaking during a...

Dear Lookout Readers and Members of the Defence Community, As many of you are aware, if you are a reader of the print version of this newspaper, you are reading one of the last editions of the Lookout that will roll off a traditional press. Effective April 6, 2026, the Lookout Navy News will transition to a predominantly digital publication from its past paper format. This decision, made in close consultation with the Lookout team and PSP Esquimalt, was not taken lightly. The final print edition on March 23, 2026 will come almost 82 years to the day that the first newspaper arrived at Canadian naval shore facilities in Victoria, decades before Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Esquimalt was formally named. While the broader circumstances driving this shift stem from the well-known challenges facing legacy media, particularly newspapers, it remains a sombre and significant moment for a storied institution woven deeply into the fabric of the Base and the lives of past and present members. We are acutely aware of the potential impacts this change may have on our loyal readers, many of whom hold the ink and feel of newsprint as fundamental to the Lookout's identity. We know many of our readers appreciate the feel of newsprint and the ritual of picking up a physical paper. That tradition has been an important part of the Lookout's identity, and we're grateful for the loyalty and connection it represents. At the same time, evolving habits in how people consume information present us with an opportunity to modernize while building on the strengths that have carried us through eight decades. This transition is about growth — not loss. In 2026, the Lookout moves toward a digital-first model that prioritizes accessible, timely, and engaging storytelling through our website, e-editions, and social media. This shift...

Archana Cini, Lookout Newspaper PCTU has revealed its first dedicated unit crest after decades of operating without a unique emblem, marking a new chapter in identity and recognition. Developed over nearly two years with the Directorate of History and Heritage, the crest arrives as the unit grows in size and capacity, expanding from 90 to 186 members. The crest’s symbolism highlights PCTU’s coastal training mandate, featuring an orca, Pacific elements, and the new motto: “On Track by Leadmark.” - After decades of shaping sailors behind the scenes at Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Esquimalt, the Patrol Craft Training Unit (PCTU) is stepping into a new chapter with a symbol that finally belongs to them alone: a dedicated unit crest. For Lieutenant-Commander (LCdr) Kevin Lashinski, Commanding Officer of PCIU, the new crest is much more than a visual update - it represents identity, morale, and the recognition of a unit that plays a critical role in generating skilled sailors for the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN). While the PCTU has long been an essential part of fleet readiness, it had never had a unique crest of its own. Historically, PCTU used the crest associated with Maritime Operations Group 4 (MOG 4). When MOG 4 was elim-inated, the unit defaulted to using the broader fleet crest instead. Now, that has changed. The crest took nearly two years to develop, crafted in partnership with the Directorate of History and Heritage (DHH). The timing is fitting: PCTU is not only growing in profile, but also in size and capacity. When LCdr Lashinski assumed command of the unit just over two years ago, it comprised just over 90 people. In the past year, it has expanded to 186. "Our unit has gotten significantly bigger - in fact, it's doubled," said LCdr Lashinski. "I started working on the...

Archana Cini, Lookout Newspaper Whether new to the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) or the base, approachability is the first thing Master Sailor (MS) Heather Van Manen wants others to notice.  “When someone meets me for the first time, I want them to feel that I’m approachable.”   Now stepping into her new role as Formation Master Sailor of Maritime Forces Pacific/Joint Task Force Pacific (MARPAC/JTFP), MS Van Manen brings more than rank and experience to the position. She brings the willingness to listen, advocate, and represent junior sailors.   MS Van Manen’s story begins in a small town in Ontario, surrounded by mud, books, and nature.   “I was definitely a tomboy,” said MS Van Manen. “I was also very much that kid that got in trouble for staying up reading books under the covers with a flashlight.”  With her mother working as a teacher, summers were often spent outdoors helping at her grandparents' family camp until MS Van Manen’s teenage years, when her family moved north full time. Before joining the RCN, MS Van Manen also thrived in another demanding environment: the professional kitchen. For five years, she worked in the professional food industry as sous chef at a small bistro in southern Ontario. Eventually, while logging hours to challenge her Red Seal, MS Van Manen hit a turning point.   “The pay, the hours, the lifestyle... it just didn’t feel very sustainable anymore,” shared MS Van Manen.   Around the same time, MS Van Manen’s best friend had joined the naval reserves, insisting that MS Van Manen would also love it. Then, while on a short trip to Cuba for her mother’s birthday, MS Van Manen met someone attempting to join the French Foreign Legion — another unexpected nudge towards the military.  After returning home, MS Van Manen applied to serve online. During the trade selection process, she chose one from each element and left it completely up to fate.   MS Van Manen was sworn into service with the RCN on Oct 30, 2019. When asked how her family and friends felt at this career shift, MS Van Manen smiled and said simply, “They were very proud.”   Despite the pace...

A/SLt Jamie De La Chevrotière-Martin, MARPAC Public Affairs Vice-Admiral Angus Topshee, Commander of the Royal Canadian Navy, hosted town halls across both coasts outlining a frank view of today’s security environment and what the RCN must become. He emphasized the need to strengthen maritime awareness to protect Canadian sovereignty, including building a unified maritime picture using sensors, autonomous systems, AI, and secure data-sharing. VAdm Topshee also highlighted shipbuilding and industrial capacity, modernization, and faster personnel generation. - In a series of town halls delivered on both coasts, Vice-Admiral (VAdm) Angus Topshee, Commander of the Royal Canadian Navy (CRCN), offered a frank assessment of today’s security environment and a clear vision for what Canada’s navy must become. His starting point was blunt: the global climate has hardened. While Canada’s 2017 defence policy, Strong, Secure, Engaged, emphasized a stable rules‑based international order, VAdm Topshee said today’s reality is increasingly shaped by power, interests, and competition. In that world, maritime forces matter and Canada must be able to defend its sovereignty. Despite readiness pressures and an aging fleet, VAdm Topshee noted the RCN has always maintained a strong global presence for a navy of its size. But the focus of the town halls was not on past achievements. Instead, he outlined what must happen next: improved maritime awareness; modern ships and submarines; faster and smarter personnel generation; and a culture focused relentlessly on competence, readiness, and war fighters. MARITIME AWARENESS AND CANADIAN SOVEREIGNTY Canada’s defining challenge remains geography. With the longest coastline in the world, three oceans, and vast maritime approaches, Canadians expect their navy to know what is happening on and under national waters. To close that gap, VAdm Topshee described a whole‑of‑government effort to build a single recognized maritime picture. This includes: the Coast Guard’s expanding surveillance mandate; partnerships with industry...

Archana Cini, Lookout Newspaper. Contributions by Capt Surbhi Matta, Combat Training Centre Exercise ROUGISH BUOY 2026 brought CAF combat divers back to Vancouver Island for the third consecutive year, training at Albert Head and Whirl Bay’s Underwater Demolition Range. First held in 1979, ROUGISH BUOY remains Canada’s only dedicated collective combat diver exercise, focused on operational readiness, recertification, and advanced underwater skills. This year’s 47th iteration included multinational participation from the United Kingdom, Latvia, Germany, and the Netherlands. - An uncommon sight greeted the Vancouver Island shoreline near Albert Head and Whirl Bay Underwater Demolition Range this January: that of Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) combat divers, suited, and sub‑ merged as they practised demanding underwater skills in the Pacific Ocean. Meet Exercise (Ex) ROUGISH BUOY 2026, Canada’s only dedicated collective training exercise that annually unites Canadian and international combat div‑ ers for diving practice, skill development, international cooperation, and dive recertification. The history of Ex ROUGISH BUOY stretches back decades in Canadian history, with its first iteration held in 1979. The exercise was initially created to ensure that combat dive teams could annually maintain oper‑ ational readiness and proficiency for tasks that might be required while deployed, including underwater demoli‑ tion, reconnaissance, and obstacle clearance. Over the years, the exercise has rotated locations and grown to include participating nations. This shift began to foster cooperative learning and technical exchange in addition to holding Canadian combat divers to high operational standards. This year’s installment saw divers return to Vancouver Island for the third consecutive year and the exercise’s 47th iteration. Once at Whirl Bay, the training was challenging. Divers worked through underwater demolition scenar‑ ios, placing charges to clear obstructions prior to deton‑ ation. The exercise also covered underwater navigation; insertion and extraction techniques; and water to land transitions from swimming...

L2 Stephen Vallis, L2 MARPAC /JTF(P) Physical and Personnel Security Officer Security Awareness Week runs Feb 9–13, 2026, with the theme 'Security starts with you,' reminding Defence Team members that protecting information, materials, and facilities is a shared responsibility. Members are encouraged to adopt a security mindset by staying proactive, learning workplace zone requirements, understanding classified materials, and knowing who to contact for guidance within their unit. Members are also reminded to track and maintain their security clearance status, and to note that the new Personnel Security Processing System (PSPS) replaced WebSCPS in Nov 2025 for all clearance requests and updates. - This year, Security Awareness Week is observed from Feb 9 to 13, with the 2026 theme being ‘Security starts with you.’ For those of us in the Defence Team, many of these changes impact our daily business: we clearly have many global rivals whose goals conflict with our own. These entities may include foreign nations and their intelligence services; foreign and transnational terrorist networks; and criminal elements. No matter your role in the Defence Team, you have access to information, materials, and facilities that will be of interest to all those entities. Collectively and individually, we have a responsibility to protect these things. Effective security requires everyone to develop a security mindset: a proactive, vigilant way of thinking that involves constantly looking for vulnerabilities and potential failures, often described as ’thinking like an attacker’ to anticipate how systems, data, or physical assets could be misused, broken, or compromised, and then taking steps to prevent that. Similarly, we need everyone to support a culture of security awareness, which is achieved when security considerations are included in all planning and day to day operations, and all Defence Team members adopt shared values in the way we think about and approach...