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On a sunny California morning, HMCS Calgary joined its counterparts from the United States Navy and Coast Guard and sailed under the Golden Gate Bridge; lining the shore were thousands of people to see the spectacle.The frigate’s mission: to represent Canada and the Royal Canadian Navy in San Francisco for Fleet Week 2015, held Oct. 5 to 12.Fleet Week is celebrated annually across the United States, in cities such as New York, Portland, Seattle and San Francisco, with the aim of showcasing the navy to the public, and building and strengthening ties with the cities that host them.  Events include the parade of ships where the fleet enters the harbour in formation, aerial displays from the U.S. Navy Blue Angels, and the U.S. Navy’s Leap Frog parachute team, as well as the unique opportunity for the public to venture on board and tour warships from around the world.In San Francisco, the United States Navy showed off one of their newest warships: USS Somerset, the latest San Antonio-class amphibious transport docks, as well as the Cruiser USS Cape St. George, the Destroyer USS Stockdale, and the Littoral Combat Ship USS Coronado.  Joining sailors in the Fleet Week kick off were members of the San Francisco 49ers.Calgary, berthed at Pier 15 between the famous San Francisco Ferry Terminal and tourist hotspot Pier 39, was a popular choice for tourists and locals who wanted to get a closer look at the men and women of the Royal Canadian Navy.The crew hosted tour groups, including displays from the ship’s boarding party and dive team, and strategically placed sailors at various positions on the upper decks to answer questions on a variety of subjects, from weaponry and equipment to the ship’s role in counter-piracy and peacekeeping around the world, to being a sailor and a Canadian.  Over 4,000 people came on board.  Other events in the week included a concert to the fallen put on by the U.S. Marine Band, an air show, a meet...

[caption id="attachment_11255" align="aligncenter" width="300"] Using kettle bells, Fleet School students do a farmer’s carry to build endurance and grip strength.[/caption]A class of 20 Fleet School Esquimalt students are the first to trial the new Periodization Program, a fitness training package designed to enhance job performance.This unique program was created by Esquimalt Personnel Support Program (PSP) fitness instructors, overseen by PSP fitness coordinator Matt Carlson.“The goal of the program is to prepare Fleet School students physically for what they will be doing upon graduation – such as lifting boxes, pulling ropes, and carrying heavy supplies,” says Carlson.The program began Oct. 15, and continues for one year with PSP fitness instructors leading students through classes twice a week with targeted exercises.PSP Fitness instructor Peter Gibson says the new exercises include deadlifts, which mimic the physical action of lifting and carrying boxes, and hamstring-driven weight and cardio exercises that will prepare students for constantly being on their feet.Sessions will also focus on plank-style exercises, which strengthen the core and reduce risk of work-related injury.Bent-over rows and rowing exercises will prep sailors for pulling heavy ropes.He even hopes to bring “props” from the ship into the training.The program was designed around feedback given from sailors on the physical demands of their jobs.“Our intention is to increase the fitness of our Fleet School students, ensuring that when they are assigned to a ship they won’t have any issues doing the jobs asked of them by their superiors,” says Gibson.“Hopefully this will contribute to our navy personnel’s efficiency and strength, and promote an injury-free workplace.”The training goal is to rid sailors of poor form when doing physical work says Gibson.The success of the program will be tracked over the year, starting with a base level of fitness at the start for each student, then bi-monthly testing,...

It’s that time year again when Canadian Armed Forces members all across the country participate in speaking engagements during Veteran’s Week. The program helps remind Canadians about the sacrifices made and continue to be made by Canada’s military members. Last year, CAF members gave more than 1,900 presentations across Canada, reaching more than 540,000 Canadians during Veterans’ Week.As part of the National Veterans’ Week Speakers Program, Maritime Forces Pacific Public Affairs is looking for volunteers to give presentations at schools and other organizations across the Capital Regional District and Lower Mainland.The key to the program’s success is the enthusiastic participation of Regular and Reserve Force members. Any CAF member can take part in the program; they just need the approval of their supervisor first. By volunteering to be a speaker, you can share your story of service with Canadians of all ages.  A website exists that provides prepared presentations for various age groups, useful information on preparing your own speeches, and guidance on using social media.Please contact Lt(N) Paul Trenholm and A/SLt Kyle Reed for the Remembrance Week speakers program and let them know when you are available. They can be reached through DWAN or by calling at 250-363-5789.

It was a podium triple-play as the Canadian Armed Forces team captured two bronze medals and silver medal at the recently completed 2015 Sixth CISM Military World Games.This year’s Games, held Oct. 2 to 11 in Mungyeong, South Korea, saw the CAF’s all-time medal count grow to 12 (three gold , one silver, six bronze) since our involvement in the quadrennial competition began in 1985.In triathlon, it was a happy 42nd birthday for Maj Martin Lamontagne-Lacasse of 35 Canadian Brigade Group when he won the third and final medal on the last day of the Games.He wrapped himself in the Canadian flag and celebrated after completing the 1.5 kilometres swim, 40 km of cycling and 10 km run in 2:01:57.“The race was a huge challenge for me and my victory wouldn’t have happened without some strong teamwork and team play,” said Maj Lamontagne-Lacasse.“Our strategy was to protect the two fastest runners to get us to the podium and it worked.”Cpl Hugues Boisvert-Simard of 22nd Régiment and Les Voltigeurs de Québec captured bronze in the fencing competition’s individual men’s épée on Oct. 5, defeating Germany’s Stephen Rein.It was Cpl Boisvelt-Simard’s second podium finish in three months after a third-place performance at the 2015 Toronto Pan Am Games.Pte Angelica Bertucca, a reservist from 25 Field Ambulance in Toronto, celebrated a third place finish in Taekwondo, women’s Bantam category on Oct. 8.It was Pte Bertucca’s first ever appearance at a Military World Games.“To the athletes – you have made Canada proud,” said Cmdre Mark Watson, Director General CF Morale and Welfare Services.“Many of you competed against Olympians in your fields of athleticism and held your own…In all cases your displays of sportsmanship, fair play and pride in our country and military and what we stand for were omnipresent.”CFB Esquimalt athletes shine in South KoreaEight men and women from CFB Esquimalt were among 8,700 competitors from 110 countries that competed in the 6th CISM Military World Games.Here’s how our competitors did:-- Soccer --Midfielder LS...

The game plan was all about fun and fund-raising as Team Blue defeated Team White 9-5 in the Victoria Royals’ annual combined scrimmage with Canadian Armed Forces members Tuesday, Oct. 13.The 21 Royals players were joined by 22 military players, with the two mixed teams playing two 25-minute periods.The event was a fund raiser for the Government of Canada Workplace Charitable Campaign (GCWCC).“Everyone loves local hockey, so having the Victoria Royals on our home ice at the base is fantastic and gives hockey fans a chance to come out and see them and support the GCWCC,” said Base Commander, Capt(N) Steve Waddell.“That’s what both the game and campaign is all about, having a good time while supporting a great cause.”Royals centre Logan Fisher led Team Blue goal scoring with two, while Lt(N) Jeff Brooker led Team White with two apiece.Commander Maritime Forces Pacific, RAdm Gilles Couturier also scored for Team Blue.RAdm Couturier took a pass from Royals centre Matthew Phillips and slotted it past Royals goaltender Griffin Outhouse to give Team Blue a 6-2 lead.“For the record there were no ‘gimmies’ and the goal was not set up,” said RAdm Couturier who played varsity hockey for the University of Montreal for two seasons between 1984 and 1986.“The first step is to get in the open ice and the second step is to have the perfect pass, and I had the perfect pass. I was pleased to be able to deliver because I am more of a playmaker and finishing is not my strong suit.”After the game, Outhouse lauded RAdm Couturier for his goal and level of play. “He [RAdm Couturier] was a pretty good player, he burned me,” said Outhouse. “He’s got some serious moves, maybe even as good as some of the guys on our team.”Shortly after RAdm Couturier’s goal, game announcer Cliff LeQuesne of radio station 100.3 The Q, jokingly taunted Team White rookie assistant coach Joe Hicketts about his team’s misfiring power play.Hicketts, who normally plays as a...

[caption id="attachment_11161" align="aligncenter" width="300"] Left to right: Capt Pam Harris, LS Rod Carper, RAdm Gilles Courturier, Maj Michael Lemire, and Cpl Devin Fidler pose for a photograph during their stop at the base.[/caption]Tour de Rock riders were on the final day of their gruelling 1,100-kilometre journey across Vancouver Island Oct. 2 when they pulled into CFB Esquimalt. “This is the first time the tour has ever stopped at the base. We are greatly honoured and hope it is the first of many,” said Acting Base Commander, Cdr Byron Derby as he congratulated the riders.“This is truly a stunning achievement. The dedication you have shown here today in service of the community and this cause is fantastic and truly awe-inspiring.”The 20 police riders and one member of the media were in the final kilometres of their 13-day cross-island cycling odyssey.As they dismounted their bikes and the Naden Band of the Royal Canadian Navy struck up its rendition of “1st Fanfare”, the team of two-wheeled voyageurs were greeted to wild cheers from over 100 well-wishers in the Lang Cove parking lot with ships in the background.Maj Michael Lemire, Commanding Officer of Military Police Unit Esquimalt was one of four MP riders who set off with the tour from Port Alice on Sept. 20.Along the way they stopped in 27 communities and over 46 schools.“The Tour de Rock is an annual event that raises funds for kids with cancer, Camp Good Times and pediatric cancer research, but it also brings together and unites the island as one team and is truly an event that people on Vancouver Island rally behind,” said Maj Lemire.“We’ve made friends and met people while we cycled down the island, and there were also the children and families who are dealing with cancer. It reminds us more that it [cancer] is something we just have to defeat.”Maj Lemire was joined by fellow MP Capt Pam Harris of CFNIS, LS Rod Carper of MPU Esquimalt, and Cpl Devon Fidler, a reservist...

HMCS Vancouver departed CFB Esquimalt today for the coast of Southern California, where it will join HMCS Calgary and HMCS Chicoutimi for a three-week Task Group Exercise (TGEX) with the United States Navy.The United States Navy’s 3rd Fleet is hosting the exercise, which aims to enhance combat readiness and improve interoperability.  “This training will strengthen our ability to work in a combined environment on a wide range of potential operations and missions, including anti-submarine warfare, boarding operations and replenishment at sea,” said Lieutenant Commander Jeff Anderson, Fleet Readiness Officer at Canadian Fleet Pacific Headquarters.“This year’s exercise will also give the Pacific Fleet exposure to amphibious operations, which could be a valuable tool for future joint missions.”Along with guided missile destroyer United States Ship (USS) Stockdale, United States Navy warships participating in the exercise are USS Boxer, USS New Orleans, and USS Harpers Ferry, all ships built for a variety of amphibious operations.“Exercises like TGEX offer valuable training opportunities for the Royal Canadian Navy and will help us maintain operational readiness throughout the fleet,” said Commodore Jeff Zwick, Commander Canadian Fleet Pacific.“As like-minded allies, our close operational relationship with the United States is an asset to maintaining peace and security throughout the Pacific region.”That close operational relationship will also include Royal Canadian Air Force assets, including a CH-124 Sea King helicopter embarked in Vancouver and a CP-140 Aurora Long Range Patrol aircraft.  In the week leading up to TGEX, Calgary participated in San Francisco Fleet Week, an annual event that brings together civilian and military forces to develop and share best practices in humanitarian assistance and emergency disaster response.In addition to the working aspect of Fleet Week, there are numerous other celebrations and family-oriented events, including an air show, which consistently attracts millions of visitors to the area. A large number of...

[caption id="attachment_11153" align="aligncenter" width="199"] A member of the Enhanced Naval Boarding Party stands sentry as the ship transits the Thames River.[/caption] After almost three months of operations in the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, HMCS Winnipeg took a break from operations to sail up the River Thames and sit centre stage at the Defence and Security Equipment international (DSEi) exhibition from Sept.15-18.DSEi is the largest defence industry trade show in the world and is held every second year in London, United Kingdom.Winnipeg was in attendance at this year’s event to support the Canadian Armed Forces’ defence industry partners by showcasing one of the final products of the Halifax Class Modernization project.“It was an honour to support the Canadian defence industry at DSEi. Operations would not be possible without the steadfast support we receive from the Canadian defence industry,” says Commander Pascal Belhumeur, Commanding Officer of Winnipeg.“We are proud to represent the Royal Canadian Navy at the show. Winnipeg celebrated its twentieth birthday on June 23 and it has never looked better.”The ship’s company provided tours of Winnipeg to event guests, defence industry representatives, foreign military and government officials, and trade representatives, as well as friends and family.The command team co-hosted two industry luncheons and the ship served as the venue for the Canadian defence industry networking reception attended by more than 250 guests.“Our Canadian defence industry participants, Government of Canada partners and DSEi event staff were extremely impressed by the hospitality and professionalism of the team on board Winnipeg,” said Daniel Salisbury, International Program Officer for the Assistant Deputy Minister (Materiel).Upon completion of the event, Winnipeg sailed back out the River Thames to re-join Standing NATO Maritime Group One and put its enhanced capabilities to work in support of Operation Reassurance, Canada’s contribution to NATO assurance measures in Europe. SLt Jamie TobinHMCS Winnipeg

[caption id="attachment_11116" align="aligncenter" width="224"] A Fleet School student tests out the new outdoor fitness equipment at the opening on Sept. 29.[/caption] Surrounded by a squad of over 30 Fleet School students in their gym wear, Base Commander Capt(N) Steve Waddell cut the ribbon to officially open the new outdoor equipment outside the Naden Athletic Centre on Tuesday, Sept. 29.Also in attendance were Danielle Sutherland, Senior Manager Personnel Support Programs (PSP), and Base Chief Petty Officer, CPO1 Robert Spinelli.“We welcome this new equipment to the base for use by our members,” said Capt(N) Waddell, who also thanked the PSP fitness staff and Real Property Operations for their hard work organizing the delivery and implementation of the equipment.He and Chief Spinelli then tried the new equipment for the first time, testing their upper body strength on the incline push-ups, the multi-bars and the arm walk.Both tested their balance on the spring balance beams, and ended the tour with lifts on the body weight pull and press weight lifting equipment.  The Fleet School Students also tested the equipment, completing round after round of high-intensity cardio and strength training circuits, led by PSP fitness instructors Peter Gibson, Takato Tanaka, and Jessica MacDougall.“With the way fitness trends are going, we have a lot of demand for circuit style classes,” said Tom Campbell, Acting Manager PSP Fitness and Sports.“This will help alleviate that demand and provide our members with all-weather gear that can be used.”The new equipment is now officially available for use by CAF members, DND staff, and Naden Athletic Centre pass holders. Rachel Lallouz Staff Writer 

[caption id="attachment_11111" align="aligncenter" width="188"] LS Philippe Mercier-Provencher received his Assistant Commissioner’s Challenge Coin from the Assistant Commissioner Roger Girouard on Sept. 8.[/caption]Three people, including a naval reservist, were honoured by the Coast Guard earlier this month for their role rescuing the lone survivor of a capsized commercial fishing boat off Tofino.HMCS Radisson naval reservist LS Philippe Mercier-Provencher, Canadian Coast Guard Rescue Specialist Juan Burak-Yepez, and Coast Guard work experience student Adele Horbulyk were awarded the Challenge Coin of the Assistant Commissioner of the Canadian Coast Guard.The three embarked on their mission during the early hours of Sunday, Sept. 6 amidst three metre swells and 20 knot winds after MV Caledonian listed when the crew hauled in a net, and eventually sunk in the offshore waters.Three fishermen perished; one managed to climb aboard a life raft.At the time, LS Mercier-Provencher was enlisted in the Inshore Rescue Boat (IRB) program at the Nootka Sound Coast Guard station, which provides rapid response to emergencies at sea.The Joint Rescue Coordination Centre received a message at 10 p.m. on Sept. 5 stating a fishing vessel was overdue; it was working more than 28 nautical miles north-west of Nootka Sound.With few vessels near the site and hours until a Coast Guard ship would arrive, LS Mercier-Provencher and his two colleagues were dispatched.“Before we left I told the crew about the weather conditions, and asked them if they felt comfortable going ahead with the mission,” says Burak-Yepez.“We agreed it needed to be done.”After radioing for a weather forecast, Burak-Yepez was informed there were no impending gale warnings, meaning they could safely continue the search without having to return to shore.The three boarded an in-shore rescue Zodiac, with an estimated time of arrival on scene of two hours; however, intense winds meant the rescuers had to cautiously navigate...

[caption id="attachment_11107" align="aligncenter" width="300"] Francis Langlands, Dereck Watson and Fay Jenkin .[/caption]Thompson Lake Park in Chilliwack swarmed with upwards of 600 guests on the rainy afternoon of Sept. 26, all looking to catch a glimpse of a new monument to commemorate 11 men who died on June 1, 1945, after crashing their B 24 Liberator Bomber KK-241 in a Second World War training mission.The Airplane Creek Memorial features three large slabs of granite positioned around the 14 cylinder engine captured from the bomber’s wreckage.Present at the ceremony were the families of victims who died in the crash, travelling from England, Norway, and New Zealand.Fay Jenkin, niece to Sergeant David Robertson Langlands, a 33-year-old volunteer Royal Air Force (RAF) member and police officer who died in the crash, found herself getting more emotional than anticipated as a formal fly-past was made.“It’s always been something we’ve known about in our family history,” says Jenkin, whose family lives in Scotland, home to Langlands family.“But there was never any memorial the family could visit, and no site to commemorate him.”Cadets, members of the Branch 280 Legion, and Guards of Honour stood in the downpour to watch the unveiling.“When the young cadets were asked by their commanding officers if they wanted to leave, they stood their ground,” says Jenkin.“We all found it hard to control the tears at some points.”On the rainy day of June 1, 1945, Jenkin’s uncle and 10 other RAF airmen training at the Abbotsford 5 Operational Training Unit climbed into their bomber and flew into thick clouds.Their last radio transmission was to the Abbotsford airfield querying their position – but Abbotsford’s response was not acknowledged, and the bomber failed to report in at its first checkpoint.Unbeknownst to officials in Abottsford, the plane had flown into the side of Mount Welch in Chilliwack, killing all on board.For the next 16 days, over 200 men and 50 planes searched desperately for the lost members.The wreckage was found near the summit of Mount Welch...

Personnel Support Programs Fitness Instructors normally spend their days keeping military members fit on dry land, but CFB Esquimalt’s Sylvan Verrier is spending six months keeping sailors fit at sea.Verrier has joined the crew of HMCS Winnipeg on Operation Reassurance, Canada’s contribution to NATO assurance measures in Europe.He was posted to Winnipeg in mid-July as the Fitness Sports and Recreation Coordinator with the task of helping the ship’s crew stay in top physical form until they return home in early 2016.“Improving the health and wellness of the crew is my goal,” says Verrier.“The majority of the crew wants to improve their overall fitness and some want more specific training to reach their goals.”Through personal fitness programs, group fitness classes, sports and recreational activities, and dissemination of health promotion material, Verrier is keeping the sailors active in their down time.“It’s easy to run a sedentary lifestyle on a ship, so I’m trying to keep people active and moving throughout their time at sea,” he says.He offers activities for all crew members and aims to provide a wide variety of activities.Currently, Verrier offers circuit training at varying intensity levels, boot camp, cardio and core classes, and yoga.“The ship’s company is constantly operational and active though,” says Verrier.“So finding time and space for physical fitness can be difficult at times. But with the motivation of the crew to stay healthy and active, my job is so enjoyable.”Due to limited open space on the ship, Verrier has had to be creative in the planning of his classes and activities.“Before boarding, I researched lots of fitness ideas and varieties of class styles,” he says.When the ship is at sea, he makes use of space-efficient kettlebells, dumbbells, boxing gear, and skipping ropes in his classes, depending on when members are available and what the weather is...

The Pacific Region women’s soccer team rebounded from two opening losses to win their first Canadian Armed Forces Women’s National Soccer Championship, defeating Quebec in a penalty kicks tiebreaker.“It took a couple of seconds for me to process the fact the game was over and we had won,” said Pacific Region coach Sgt Caleb Klimas.“I know some of the women said they felt like they were dreaming. At the beginning of the tournament if you had told anyone that Pacific Region was going to take home the trophy, I don’t think anyone would have believed you.”The two teams were deadlocked in a scoreless tie following two 15-minute overtime periods in the tournament final, held at CFB Borden on Sept. 15.The Pacific team prevailed, scoring two penalty goals to the Quebec team’s single goal.Midfielder, Capt Victoria Blakie and MBdr Kayla Ruiz, a striker, both converted their spot kicks while goalkeeper 2Lt Sam Behm made some outstanding saves throughout the match, said Sgt Klimas.Their efforts cemented their victory and they hoisted the Capt Nichola Goddard trophy.It wasn’t a smooth start to the tournament for the Pacific team.The women dropped their first two matches in round robin play to Quebec and Ontario, both by identical 2-0 scores.Shaking off the early losses, the team went undefeated over its final four matches including a 0-0 tie against the Atlantic team and a 2-1 win over the Prairie Region.The Pacific team then defeated Ontario in the semi-finals with striker LS Jackie Boskovic’s scoring the game’s only goal early in the match.“Our girls got better with every game,” said Sgt Klimas.“After losing our first two [games], the team was feeling a little low, but we had two more games left and we took that opportunity with two wins and moved onto the semi-finals.”Pacific’s 2Lt Behm was awarded...

Environmentally friendly updates to the lighting at the Colwood Pacific Activity Centre (CPAC) will save the facility nearly 30,000 kilowatt hours and thousands of dollars per year – enough to power three average B.C. homes.LED lights as well as and motion and daylight sensors were installed after Technical Specialist Derek Knudsen made recommendations to upgrade energy wasting aspects of the 16 year old building.Knudsen, who works for CFB Esquimalt Real Property Operations under a contract with Defence Construction Canada, assesses Department of National Defence buildings to find energy wasters and recommends ways to make them more efficient.He started the CPAC project just over three months ago and has since changed more than 50 per cent of the lighting at the centre.“Apart from saving energy for the building, the project will save the Department of National Defence in costs too. With the renovations, the centre will be able to save $4,300 a year,” says Knudsen.During a six-week construction period, a two person crew replaced the building’s metal halide gymnasium lights with energy-efficient LED lighting.Metal halide presents a safety risk due to its low light levels, and frequent burn-outs, Knudsen explains.“The new LED lights will provide users with better lighting colour and are hooked up to sensors to automatically turn off after detecting zero movement for 20 to 30 minutes,” says Knudsen.Exit signs in the gymnasium were also upgraded to LED lighting.In the hallways throughout the building, daylight sensors have been programmed to supplement the natural light with LED lighting.The sensor will scale light up and down to supply fill lighting automatically.Outdoors, the old metal halide and low pressure sodium lighting was creating personal security issues.Employees or guests of the centre were at risk while waiting for a pick-up in dark lighting conditions if one or more lights burned out.Similar to the...

[caption id="attachment_10818" align="aligncenter" width="199"] Dee Osmond and sailor Kevin Penny grin proudly after the final day of the Gold Fleet competition at the Mobility Cup.[/caption]When sailor Kevin Penny, 39, climbed into his sailboat at this year’s 2015 Mobility Cup, he sipped and puffed his way across the waves and into a personal best finish.Penny doesn’t have the use of his arms, legs or feet to sail the boat. Instead he uses sip ‘n’ puff technology to steer his specially-designed Martin 16 sailboat.He uses the power of his exhaling and inhaling to control the rudder and sails of his boat.  The experienced sailor from Halifax savoured every second of his time away from shore at this year’s Mobility Cup, held Sept. 7 to 11, with a personal best sixth place finish.Penny and his guide and coach Dee Osmand  celebrated on the dock at the Canadian Forces Sailing Association (CFSA) after learning his overall score at the five-day international regatta for sailors with disabilities.Penny had not only broken a two-way tie with Haafsa Chaar of Montreal in the Gold Fleet competition, but also beat out the Mobility Cup’s three other sip ‘n’ puff sailors.“No way,” Penny exclaimed after getting news from Osmond, who ran back to the dock from the CFSA clubhouse to relay the news.“Now that we came in sixth, there’s a big reason to smile,” he said.“I reached my goals, I wanted to do a top 10 [finish] and beat my other sip ‘n’ puff competitors and I did that. It was a lot of hard work, I spent a lot of time in the boat this summer and there was a lot of great coaching from Dee.”Peter Eagar of Toronto was tops overall in the Gold Fleet competition while Pierre-Yves Lévesque of Montreal won the Silver Fleet competition for...

[caption id="attachment_10816" align="aligncenter" width="300"] At 91 years old, musician and former Naden Band member, Doug Howell still has the lungs to play the Euphonium, a baritone-voiced brass instrument. The senior musician practiced with the Naden Band of the Royal Canadian Navy before joining them on stage Sept. 11 for a celebratory concert honouring 75 years of band music.[/caption]If you watched the Naden Band of the Royal Canadian Navy’s 75th anniversary performance you most likely didn’t realize that furiously piping away in the on stage was a musician who was there from its early days.Doug Howell, 91, a Euphonium player from Comox, was one of the five original Nadan Band members who returned for the band’s four-day diamond anniversary celebration.He was also the oldest to perform at the Sept. 11 concert at The Royal Theatre.“The house was packed, sold out, it was just fantastic,” said Howell.“It was also like déjà vu for me. I was there at that same theatre 75 years ago playing concerts every second Sunday night during the war – it really was like stepping back into the past.”The band’s oldest surviving original member is 97-year-old John Tomczak of Victoria.While Tomczak didn’t play in the concert, he attended the anniversary performance and gave it a rave review.“This was the best concert I have ever heard,” said Tomczak, who played Clarinet with the band from 1940 to 1945.“It doesn’t get any better than this.”The other three original band members at the anniversary celebration were trumpet players Meredith ‘Rommy’ Rombough, 90, of Russell, Ont. (1944-1945), Don Scott, 87, of Victoria, (1949-1959), and trombonist Ed Rowley of Victoria (1944-45).According to the band’s director of music, Lt(N) Matthew Clark, the legacy of Howell, Tomczak and the other three originals has helped “push others in the band to do great things.”“Complete amazement and...

According to ride organizers, Captain Gary Levesque, Warrant Officer Duane Bailey and 2,087 other riders braved the most intense weather conditions this August in the Ride to Conquer Cancer’s seven-year history.The two cycled from Cloverdale, B.C., to the outskirts of Seattle from Aug. 29 to 30, enduring record breaking headwinds and rainfall, while navigating around fallen trees and downed electrical wires.“From the moment we set foot at the fairgrounds of the Cloverdale Agriplex for the opening pep rally, we experienced about 35 minutes of torrential downpour,” says Capt Levesque.“We couldn’t even see the stage.”By 8 a.m., riders present at the start line hopped on their bicycles to begin that day’s 125 kilometre ride to Washington State in wet gear, with Capt Levesque and WO Bailey wringing water from their gloves and pushing off in soaked shoes.“It was a bittersweet beginning and challenging right off the bat,” says Capt Levesque.“But we knew why we were there. We believe in the cause and what we were working towards.”The two military members worked together at the MARPAC headquarters, and are friends of four years.When WO Bailey was diagnosed with cancer in 2013, Capt Levesque couldn’t help but be affected.He says it hit him, especially since five members of his extended family have had cancer diagnoses.After getting the green light from doctors for being cancer free in 2014, WO Bailey decided he wanted do something to support the Canadian Cancer Foundation in Victoria, the agency that supported him after his surgery to remove a tumor in his colon, and who are direct recipients of funds raised through the ride.When co-worker Petty Officer First Class Pat King mentioned to WO Bailey she would be completing the 2015 ride, he proposed completing it as a group to Capt Levesque.“We looked at ourselves and we thought: ‘we’re...

One by one, the eight gold medals he won with Canada’s national dragon boat team began to weigh heavily on paddler Darryl Draper’s neck.The nine-year employee of Shop 141 at Fleet Maintenance Facility Cape Breton, and his teammates from across the nation, made the triumphant climb to the top of the podium eight times at the International Dragon Boat Federation World Championships in Welland, Ont., Aug. 19 to 23.“We dominated. We had a great team and it was just an incredible experience to be part of that,” said Draper.This year’s international championships were held at the Niagara Peninsula’s legendary Welland International Flatwater Centre, world-famous for hosting high-profile rowing regatta’s and other competitive paddling events.Draper and his teammates had the benefit of expert guidance throughout the competition from Peter Buday, son of famed Hungarian paddling coach Tamás Buday.Tamás defected to Canada in 1987 and has since led several Canadian paddlers to international and Olympic glory.“Our coach Peter had so much knowledge and insight of paddling mechanics from his father (Tamás) and really demanded the complete attention and respect of our team,” said Draper. “Everything he did made us go faster.”Team Canada had a near-flawless performance in the Senior B Mixed and Open Crew Over-50 categories, competing against teams from Australia, Great Britain, Czech Republic and the United States.There was only one minor setback for the team in an otherwise perfect weekend.Canada failed to win all but one of their heats, losing out in a photo finish to the United States in the men’s Over-50 1,000 metre heat, but they still managed to win the overall competition.“It would have been the perfect sweep, we would have been flawless but the loss motivated us not to lose again and we didn’t,” said Draper.To add to his good fortune, Draper was also one of only two competitors at the event to win a commemorative Hornet Paddle in a random draw.Draper played high school football and slow pitch baseball while growing up in Aylmer, Que;...

On Sept 3, HMCS Chicoutimi, a Victoria-class submarine currently stationed at CFB Esquimalt, was officially commissioned into the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN).Commissioning is the formal and ceremonial act of placing a ship or submarine in active service.In this case, the ceremony has a significant ceremonial aspect: Chicoutimi was finally able to fly the Naval Ensign at all times.While it was previously able to fly the ensign at sea, it was restricted from doing so at ceremonial events, such as sunrise and sunset ceremonies, until being officially commissioned.With the bright red and white pennant unfurled and the powerful diesel-electric engines brought to life, Commander Timothy Markusson, Commanding Officer of Chicoutimi, declared the submarine commissioned, as dignitaries and guests looked on.“It is truly unique work we do and it is fortunate that we have a platform as great as the Chicoutimi on which to do it,” said Cdr Markusson to the crowd.“This event is certainly the highlight of my career, and I believe is one for the Royal Canadian Navy as well.”Following his address, he then gave the order for Chicoutimi’s executive officer, Lt(N) Devin Matthews and crew “to man the boat” while the Naden Band of the Royal Canadian Navy played “Heart of Oak.”Once on board, the submariners removed their peak caps and hollered “hip-hip-hurray”, the customary cheer.Their crew`s ceremonial celebration was followed by applause and cheers from those in attendance as the historic moment drew to a close.Those overseeing this historic moment included B.C. Lieutenant Governor, the Honourable Judith Guichon;  Deputy Commander of the Royal Canadian Navy, Rear-Admiral (RAdm) Ron Lloyd; Commander of Maritime Force Pacific, RAdm Gilles Couturier; the Mayor of Saguenay, Quebec, Jean Tremblay, and Chicoutimi Sponsor Marina Larouche.“These are among the most complex machines on the planet and operate in an environment which allows very little room for error or tactical defect,” said RAdm Lloyd. “I know Chicoutimi is ‘ready-aye-ready’ and is now in capable hands. Chicoutimi, welcome to the fleet.”Peter MallettStaff writer -- LGov Speech - Official...

What weighs 27 kilograms, contains five genuine and 17 reproduction First World War artifacts, including a gas mask and an example of trench art, and can be borrowed without charge by any school in Canada?It’s the Supply Line First World War Discovery Box created by staff at the Canadian War Museum in Ottawa to give students hands-on experience of what it was like to be First World War soldiers.Sandra O’Quinn, a learning specialist at the museum, says the idea is to allow students to discover First World War history for themselves.And, unlike those in many museum exhibits, these artifacts are meant to be touched.“We chose objects that would stand up to hundreds and hundreds of children handling them,” O’Quinn says.“We want them to touch, try on and manipulate them.”Items that are reproductions include the uniform jacket and cap, and the gas mask.The authentic pieces include the cap badge, shadow boxes with shrapnel and barbed wire, shell casings and an example of trench art.Trench art was created by soldiers during quiet moments; an example is an intricately engraved mortar shell.Other items in the box include a gas alarm rattle, which British forces used to warn of chemical attacks, and a trench periscope.The Discovery Box is modelled on another similar project developed by War Museum staff at its previous location on Sussex Drive.It was relocated to its current and much larger home on Ottawa’s LeBreton Flats in 2005.The program was re-launched in September 2014 in recognition of the centenary of the First World War.Interest from schools was immediate and, in response to positive word of mouth from museum donors and others, more than 200 had signed on to participate before the official launch.“We’re really happy with it,” says O’Quinn.“We’re most happy with the teachers’ response.”She said it was gratifying when teachers reported...

Logan Rode hopes his latest flying drone creates a big buzz when it lands at the Naden Drill Hall during the Sept. 17  CFB Esquimalt Industrial Supplier Trade Show.“We are really excited about coming to CFB Esquimalt and connecting with military and department of defence staff,” says Rode.“It’s a great opportunity for our company to do some networking and get some feedback from people in the military about our product.”The X-Bot, a remote controlled, unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV), and a consumer grade drone will be showcased by the 35-year-old Victoria-born entrepreneur at the trade show.Rode is founder and president of ProPhotoUAV Technology Corp.He describes his company’s latest invention – the X-Bot- as a “sophisticated eye in the sky” or “flying robot”, and sees it as key development in the rapidly-expanding field of UAVs.“It’s definitely not a fad; the X-Bot is the next wave in high-tech, compact flying technology,” he says.Rode warns the X-Bot is not to be confused with increasingly popular recreational UAVs used by amateur hobbyists, and adds it can be used to perform a variety of tasks.“The sky is the limit in terms of applications of this technology for military, emergency services and search and rescue purposes,” says Rode.“Unfortunately, most of the media coverage surrounding UAV’s has been primarily focused on the negative aspects of this technology such as privacy issues, but the X-Bot doesn’t really fall into that category.”The X-Bot is not a toy, he says.  It was designed to capture high-resolution video, infrared, thermal and other images, and can be controlled from a tablet, Google maps or a standard handheld controller.The four-quad prop UAV features a three-axis stabilized gyro for the delivery of stable HD images.Its body is made of light carbon fiber and normally weighs about five kilograms, depending on the payload. It has a...

[caption id="attachment_10721" align="aligncenter" width="300"] Sgt Marji Fischer gives Kairi Playle, 6, a positive ticket for wearing a helmet with when riding her bike.[/caption]Police ticketing of youth has a new purpose on base and around the city.Police personnel within the south island police services area, including Military Police from Military Police Unit Esquimalt, are rewarding youth demonstrating good behaviour with “Positive Tickets.”Good deeds such as skateboarding with a helmet and bicycling safely, picking up litter, staying drug free, and helping others will be noticed, and Military Police may reward youth with a ticket.  The tickets are the size of a hockey trading card and earn youth free drop-in admission to a recreational centre within the Greater Victoria Capital Regional District, including the Naden Athletic Centre. At the NAC, they can be redeemed for one free access to the gymnasium, pool, weight and cardio rooms (15+ years), and arena.However, the number of the tickets is limited, so there will be some discretion as to when they are issued.  While conducting proactive patrols in the military communities, Military Police will not only be canvassing individuals for breaking the law, but will also look for good deeds and positive behaviours by community youth. The intent of the program is to reduce juvenile problems in the community, boost self-esteem and improve community relations with youth. “Our military police patrols interact with youth residing within the eight residential housing unit sites located within a 25 kilometre radius of CFB Esquimalt,” says Major Michael Lemire, Commanding Officer of the Military Police Unit Esquimalt.“The act of giving out the positive tickets will help further build relationships between youth and the Military Police. We always strive to have positive interactions with those we provide law enforcement and Force Protection services to, and this program helps us do that.”  The...

In 1943, at the pinnacle of the Second World War, Margaret “Greet” Ferguson, a graduate nurse trained in a Toronto hospital, found herself treating wounded Canadian sailors at the base in Newfoundland.She was one among 99 other nurses chosen as Canada’s first contingent of Naval Nursing Sisters.“I always had wanted to be a math teacher,” says Ferguson, 97.“But my brother and I ended up being in Grade 12 together, and my dad couldn’t afford to send us both to college when we graduated at the same time, so it was proposed that I try nursing school, which was free.”Ferguson, who grew up in the tiny hamlet of Inverness, Nova Scotia, was accepted into St. Michaels, a strict Catholic nursing hospital in the heart of bustling Toronto.She says she still remembers the immaculate tile halls of the hospital and the scratching from her stiffly starched white collar as she worked.“But I just kept wondering: is the war going to be over by the time I finally finish the three years of my training?”By the end of her final year, Ferguson had accepted a position in the obstetrics ward at St. Michaels.It was then that the Minister of National Defence, Angus MacDonald, put out a call to the country for 100 naval nurses.Before then, nurses could only join the air force or army.“I desperately wanted a change at that point in my life,” says Ferguson.Minister MacDonald, once the Premier of Nova Scotia, had been born and raised in Inverness.One phone call to MacDonald, and Ferguson found herself with a tentative offer that she might be one of the first naval nurses to serve.“A few days after I called Angus, I got a call from a commander at the recruiting base in Toronto, HMCS York.He said: ‘I don’t know who the heck you...

A team of volunteers are getting set to huff, puff, and put some wind into the sails of this year’s Mobility Cup.The Canadian Forces Sailing Association (CFSA) located at Munroe Head on the north side of Esquimalt Harbour is host to the 24th annual edition of Canada’s international regatta for sailors with disabilities, Sept. 7 to 11. “We have been working all year to get our club ready for this event,” said Bill Macdonald, Disabled Sailing Association representative for CFSA. “It is a big effort, but it is also a lot of rote because we have done this so often before.”CFSA hosted the Mobility Cup in 1995 and again in 2001. Macdonald says this year’s regatta will require over 150 volunteers to help welcome 42 competitors from across the United States and Canada.Most volunteer positions have been filled, but Macdonald says they are still looking for a few good men and women to assist. CFB Esquimalt is providing tents, chairs, tables and several other support items. He says the CFSA are expecting a crowd of 300 to 400 people for the five-day event.“It is just incredible and truly amazing that they have opened their doors to us again,” said Emily Boardman, Coordinator of Services at Recreation Integration Victoria.“The ramps and washrooms at the CFSA are easily accessible and have been redone, which will make the experience for participants much easier.”CFB Esquimalt renovated all the heads and wash places to make them accessible in 2001, and a new ramp to the docks was installed in 2008 Macdonald and Boardman both say the salt water course, which runs to the south of Royal Roads University in nearby Colwood, will pose unique challenges for some sailors. “Esquimalt Harbour can be quite fluky and unpredictable the way the wind is constantly changing as it...

So far, Second World War veteran Rudi Hoenson has given away $4 million of his fortune, but says his latest donation may be his most meaningful.Earlier this month the 92-year-old Victoria philanthropist, and atomic bomb survivor, announced he would match donations of up to $200,000 to help cover the costs of new overhead lifts in all the rooms at The Lodge at Broadmead. The Lodge at Broadmead is a 229-bed residential care facility with 115 priority access beds for veterans, 110 beds for seniors in the community, and four respite care beds for veterans.The Lodge is the primary priority access bed facility for veterans on Vancouver Island.“This is a complete game-changer and is also critically important for care at The Lodge at Broadmead,” said Jennifer Jasechko, Broadmead Care’s Fund Development Consultant.“Residents will be able to get out of bed more often and easily, so it’s much faster, more dignified, comfortable, and also saves injuries to our staff.”Previously, Jasechko says residents had been forced to wait for caregivers to arrive with portable lift units and then move them into wheelchairs or commodes.The new lifts cost $5,300 each and will make life “considerably easier” for both residents and care-givers. “I am veteran myself so I feel quite an association with the people here at the Lodge at Broadmead because I know what many of them went through,” said Hoenson.“Many people who live here are war veterans or fought in World War Two as I did. I think it’s a good place to give back some money and make their lives here better.”Hoenson was just 1.9 kilometres away from ground zero when the second atomic bomb ever used in warfare was dropped on Nagasaki, Japan.Surviving that experience, he says, gave him a “greater understanding” of humanity and also helped him gain insight into...

Want to get to from point A to B quickly, in style, off road, and use green transportation?Segways are the total solution.Not sure what a Segway is?No worries, vendor Ride the Glide - Segway Tours and Events, the self-balancing specialists, will be showcasing the personal transporters at the Sept. 17 CFB Esquimalt Industrial Supplier Trade Show. “We love the fact that they are green technology with their rechargeable lithium ion batteries,” says Corinne Besler, co-owner of Ride the Glide Segway Tours and Events, Victoria.“Rather than hop in your car, you can hop on a Segway. Plus it’s just so much fun,” Besler says Segways and other self-balancing products are a great form of travel for the average person who needs to commute a short distance, such as to and from work. Segways are a staple in warehouses, airports, and can assist anyone who owns a large property to get around quickly. “They actually decrease the fatigue of people who need to get from point A to point B multiple times a day; so they can increase productivity as well,” she says. On display at the tradeshow will be the Segway x2, an off road model that can travel between 15 to 19 kilometres on one charge, and has large wheels that are perfect for traversing multiple terrains on a property.Also showcased will be the Segway i2, which can carry a person between 30 and 38 kilometres on one charge, and the Chinese version of the Segway, the Ninebot Elite, which has smaller wheels and a more streamlined shape for commuters. Also on display, the NinebotOne, an electric unicycle that uses Segway technology. “They are all highly maneuverable and take up about as much space as your own personal body space. Plus, they can stop on a dime or go as...

Preparation is the key to operational excellence.Sailors devote countless hours to sharpening their skills in order to maintain readiness throughout the fleet.As the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) continues its high pace of operations and prepares to receive the future fleet, it is vital this readiness is maintained through training of its sailors.Since 2010, over 150 RCN members have participated in the Regulus Program that facilitates exchanges with partner navies from around the world, providing unique training opportunities and exposing sailors to the diverse cultures of many allied navies.Recently, Petty Officer Second Class Tony Goodwin was sailing with the Royal Navy aboard a Royal Fleet Auxiliary tanker.With 10 years of experience serving on the recently paid off Protecteur-class supply ships, PO2 Goodwin was assisting in the development of replenishment at sea (RAS) training opportunities for RCN sailors.“I was identifying training opportunities for Royal Canadian Navy sailors onboard the Royal Fleet Auxiliary to help prepare our navy to receive the joint support ships and to help strengthen the already excellent ties we have with the Royal Navy,” said PO2 Goodwin.While sharpening sailor’s skills, the Regulus program is also helping to strengthen relationships with allied nations, increasing interoperability and reinforcing the navy’s commitment to international peace and security.“This growing interoperability is vital to sustaining a relevant, world-class navy,” said Lieutenant (Navy) Arthur Halpenny, Regulus Personnel Coordinator.“The Royal Canadian Navy is now more agile and capable to operate with partner navies, as the program not only builds relationships at the candidate level, but at the staff level as well.”Canada is currently one of 10 countries participating in the program, which includes Australia, Chile, France, Ireland, New Zealand, Peru, Portugal, the United Kingdom and the United States.Originally implemented as a way to get more RCN sailors to sea during a period of reduced sailing opportunities...

A hawk circled high in the bright blue sky and a family of otters splashed and frolicked by the shoreline as Sgt Moogly Tetrault-Hamel and paddlers from the Songhees nation headed for an inlet off Esquimalt harbour in a traditional Coast Salish family canoe last Wednesday.In his hands was the Canadian Armed Forces Eagle Staff, a highly honoured and sacred icon of First Nations’ people, similar to a nation’s flag.The military had brought their Eagle Staff for the Raven graduation, but before it could be used, First Nation protocol dictates that permission must be sought and accepted to bring the Eagle Staff into the traditional territories of the Songhees and Esquimalt Nations.    “It’s really encouraging and important that members of the Canadian Armed Forces asked our people for permission to come ashore, and that they showed such a willingness to follow our traditions,” said Songhees Nation Elder, Elmer George.“The Eagle Staff came by water and canoe because this is the traditional way of meeting outsiders coming into our community.”At 2 p.m. the canoe arrived on the shoreline behind the Esquimalt Nation’s administrative office.About 50 onlookers from both communities looked on from a rocky bluff as Sgt Tetrault-Hamel asked Elmer George for permission to come ashore.He gave his permission and then took a moment for prayer as the Eagle Staff made its official entrance into the territory of the Coast Salish Peoples.“It was a great honour and I felt very blessed when I was asked to do this. It was hard to feel anything but pride as I walked ashore,” said Sgt Tetrault-Hamel.The Eagle Staff has great spiritual and cultural relevance for the people of Turtle Island (North America) MWO Grant Greyeyes, Aboriginal advisor with Army Headquarters, described it as a “highly honoured and consecrated object” and a “conduit of prayer”...

Youth wanting that last summer camping trip – with no parents –  should look no further than the Tri-Cadets Camp-Out at Albert Head.From Sept. 1 to 3, youth can camp out in tented bivouac sites and participate in air rifle marksmanship, canoeing, orienteering activities, hiking, and a range of sports, and discover what the cadet program is all about.“The camp out’s goal is simple: to promote fun, challenge, and making friends,” says Lt(N) Cynthia Lawless, Commanding Officer of the Royal Canadian Sea Cadets Corps 263 and core organizer of the camp. “We are looking to develop teamwork and esprit de corps as well, all components of a well-rounded cadet.”Lt(N) Lawless says the value of the camp lies in its blending of activities from each of the three cadet elements: air, land, and sea.Participants will learn basic bush living and be challenged to adjust to life in a large group with very little access to technology and amenities.Senior cadets from across the island will help instruct the youth who are completely unfamiliar with cadet activities or skills, making it a truly youth-led event.“Cadets excel the most through play and learning, whether on the water, in the bush, or on the field,” says Lt (N) Lawless. “So these youth are going to thrive off the energy of each other during those three days.”Rachel Lallouz Staff Writer (more…)

[caption id="attachment_10607" align="aligncenter" width="300"] Philippe Asselin[/caption]He traded in his trumpet for a Fullbore rifle and now WO Philippe Asselin is making beautiful sounds on the shooting range.“There are so many similarities; playing trumpet and shooting are both about breathing control and concentration,” says WO Asselin, a member of the Royal Canadian Army Cadets National Rifle Team (RCAC NRT).  “While it’s super important to hit the right notes in a wind instrument, for shooting you need to get your breathing right to get your site perfectly centered.”That insight has helped the International Baccalaureate Grade 12 student at Esquimalt’s École Victor-Brodeur flourish as a competitive marksman.WO Asselin returned from England’s prestigious Bisley Imperial Meeting (July 9 to 18) with a 7th place finish in the Chairman’s Final portion of the competition, competing against a pool of 500 shooters from around the world.“I didn’t get too excited because you can’t get distracted with how well you are doing in this sport or it will throw you off entirely, and I still had more events to compete in,” says the cadet with the 2483 Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry (PPCLI).Before his success on the shooting range, there was always music. He had been a band member since joining the cadets in 2012 and was awarded Most Proficient Musician in the 2483 PPCLI in both 2013 and 2014.But the life-long fan of Dizzy Gillespie who describes his trumpet as an “old friend” decided to give up music before heading to Bisley.“It was kind of heart breaking for me, but the music just took up too much of my time and I was no longer able to participate,” he said.The decision to take a temporary break from music came last year after he made the RCAC NRT. It took three years to build his qualifications for...