Latest News

[caption id="attachment_8363" align="alignnone" width="300"] Team Scrambled Eggs and Ham - LCdr Leung, Matt Campolongo and Colin Geddes - at the race finish with race directors Tex Geddes and Michael Templement.[/caption]Considered one of the most difficult ultramarathon on the planet, the Grand to Grand Ultramarathon (G2G) is gruelling says LCdr Francis Leung. It takes determined participants 273 kilometres, from the North Rim of the Grand Canyon in Arizona to the Grand Staircase in Utah.The naval officer knows this firsthand, having recently completed the race over seven days across a distance similar to that of Victoria to Campbell River, through storms, sand dunes, caves, canyons, and rocky, mountainous terrain.A veteran runner who put the sport aside for work and family, LCdr Leung considered training for the G2G as a way of regaining his edge,“I was a competitive athlete most of my life, but after a series of injuries compounded by demanding work schedules, I got into a fairly sedentary lifestyle,” he says. “I needed something like this to get back into shape.”LCdr Leung, and fellow runners Michael Templeman and Matthew Campolongo formed team Scrambled Legs and Ham. They set out Sept. 23 from the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, a legendary natural wonder.With a storm front on their heels, LCdr Leung and his team made good time for the first day, but with just 50 km under their belts, they knew there was still over 220 km of more punishing terrain ahead of them.“At one point on the first day, we could feel this cold front licking at our necks,” he says. “We later found out that the competitors behind us had to run through a flash flood with water up to their shins and chunky hailstones coming down on them. We were very lucky to miss that because it eventually...

[caption id="attachment_8356" align="alignnone" width="300"] Director of the Naval Museum of Halifax, Richard Sanderson, and RAdm John F. Newton, Commander Joint Task Force Atlantic and Maritime Force Atlantic, make a media announcement about the discovery of a historic anchor.[/caption]An anchor of a historic naval ship has been discovered.This anchor, believed to have belonged to HMCS Niobe, has been unearthed at HMC Dockyard in HalifaxNiobe was the first Canadian warship to enter Canada’s territorial waters, on Oct. 21, 1910, a landmark event in the beginnings of the Naval Service of Canada.As fate would have it, the discovery of the roughly 900-kilo (2000-pound) anchor was made just days before the commemoration of Niobe Day, which will from now on, be celebrated annually by the Royal Canadian Navy on the 21st day of October.An excavation crew working at HMC Dockyard recovered an anchor and chain buried beneath a demolition site on the morning of Oct. 14.The anchor was unearthed at former Jetty 4, where Building D-19, a Second World War dockside warehouse and one of the first structures at HMC Dockyard, once stood and is now being demolished. This work is part of the ongoing refurbishment of HMC Dockyard in preparation for the arrival of a new fleet of ships that will be delivered through the National Shipbuilding Procurement Strategy over the next decade and beyond.The dimensions of the roughly 900-kilo (2000-pound) anchor are, 4 metres (13 feet) from crown to head, 4.1 metres (13.5 feet) across the stock, and 3.35 metres (11 feet) from bill to bill of the flukes. Additionally, each link of the anchor’s chain is 51 centimetres (20 inches) by 28 centimetres (11 inches) and weighs approximately 34 kilos (75 pounds).While still in the process of officially confirming this historic find, Richard Sanderson, Director at the Naval Museum of Halifax,...

[caption id="attachment_8278" align="alignnone" width="300"] Ken Cawley practices his stealth, sneaking up on a decoy attached to a fishing line, as part of the First Responder Oiled Animal Capture Course held at D Jetty last week.[/caption]Rescuing oil-slicked animals and birds is now a skillset of a few base employees.To ensure they can do the job, 10 people from Port Operation and Emergency Services (POESB), Fleet Maintenance Facility, and the Coast Guard took the First Responder Oiled Animal Capture course with Focus Wildlife Canada last week.Standing in for the real thing was a remote controlled four-wheeled water fowl that zipped around the parking lot near D Jetty in Colwood and Esquimalt Harbour, as students took turns catching it with a net.  “It’s not as good as the real thing, but it’s a lot safer,” says Chris Battaglia, co-founder of Focus Wildlife Canada and course instructor.Battaglia and Focus Wildlife Canada provide professional spill response and training across Canada and the United States. Part of this training includes the capture or deterrence of animals in an environment affected by a spill.Students were educated on the responsibilities of a first responder in an oil spill situation. This includes how to evaluate a spill, the threat it may pose to wildlife, and how to intervene when it comes to oiled animals.“It’s about giving them the tools needed to deal with a situation before the specialists arrive,” says Battaglia. “Obviously they won’t be able to deal with a large volume of oiled birds on their own, but that first 24 to 48 hours can be critical, and it’s important to have people know what to do in those situations.”The course also included hands-on oiled animal capture training. Using both floating and rolling decoys, students scooped the models up in nets in the harbour and on the ground.“There...

[caption id="attachment_8275" align="alignnone" width="300"] Lt(N) Matthew Clark, Commanding Officer of the Naden Band, takes the musicians through a rehearsal.[/caption]In-between playing gigs at numerous events, the Naden Band of the Royal Canadian Navy has been laying down tracks for a new CD.The album, titled “Snapshots of Excellence”, focuses on the Naden Band’s smaller ensembles.“Most people are used to seeing the band all together at events, or at Christmas time,” says Lt(N) Matthew Clark, the band’s Commanding Officer. “We have a lot of great talent, and a lot of smaller groups and soloists we wanted to shine the spotlight on. It’s very exciting for us.”The band is comprised of world-class musicians; this talent includes everything from trombone quartets to woodwind quintets, soloists of all kinds, and modern rock and jazz inspired groups.“There is a lot of variety in our performers,” says Lt(N) Clark. “We have a great respect for the classic style, but it’s nice to get to stretch our legs a little.”For the recording process, the band’s practice hall and headquarters at N33 have been converted into a recording studio, with microphones every few steps, and hundreds of feet of snaking wires and cords draping the room like vines. They are recording well into the evening, night after night.“We’ve had to turn the air conditioning off because the mics are so sensitive,” he says. “After eight hours of playing and recording, it becomes quite the oven. Playing music is a lot more exhausting than I think a lot of people understand.”Despite all the late nights, sore jaws, and boiling hot recording sessions, Lt(N) Clark says at the end of the day it’s a worthwhile experience.“Sometimes I’ll get home at 11:30 p.m. and think about how I might have gotten in over my head,” he says. “But when I wake up the...

[caption id="attachment_8272" align="alignnone" width="300"] The envelope of a letter sent to Bella from her brother Fred during the First World War. Inset: A portrait of Ed Grant in his service uniform.[/caption]Staff at Fort Rodd Hill National Historic Site is providing people a window into the lives and relationships of a Bella Coola family from a century ago.Each day, using social media, they have released letters sent by brothers Ed and Fred Grant to their sister Belle in Victoria during their service in the First World War.The online historical exhibit is called “Dearest Belle.”“It’s a very interesting look at how people thought back then,” says Dave King, Visitor Experience Manager at Fort Rodd Hill. “You get to see what they were doing, the new things they were seeing and experiencing, how they felt about it, and how much their family meant to them.”Fred, a member of the 2nd Mounted Rifles, and Ed of the 5th Artillery, were deployed separately to France and Belgium. King says the letters give an intimate look at how this journey affected these two humble farm boys.“They got swept up in something much larger than themselves,” he says. “This was a time of change, for Canada and Canadians.”The letters, along with photos of the family, were discovered in a second-hand bookstore in Victoria called Sorensen’s Books. When King and his team discovered the collection, they realized it’s potential.“We realized there was a potential for interpretation and presentation, to get a look at that part of Canadian history that is so close, but yet so far in the past,” he says.Fifty letters were chosen from the collection, and are being released through Fort Rodd Hill’s Facebook page and Twitter account, culminating with the final letter Nov. 11.King says the most illuminating part of the collection is that the...

[caption id="attachment_8232" align="alignnone" width="300"] The United State Coast Guard Cutter Active’s rigid hull inflatable boat approaches the suspect vessel while HMCS Calgary stands guard in the background.[/caption]Merely two hours after departing San Diego harbour to start an eight-day Operation Caribbe deployment with Joint Interagency Task Force South, HMCS Calgary was directed to investigate a small suspicious vessel (panga) in international waters.The panga was approximately 100 nautical miles southwest of the United States – Mexico border.Along with U.S. Coast Guard Cutters Active and Haddock, and a USCG C-130 Hercules on station, Calgary went in pursuit of the vessel. As this was a joint interagency operation, Calgary had the U.S. Coast Guard and a Law Enforcement Detachment embarked.A Hercules provided reports on the panga and tracked its position, while Calgary closed the location of the vessel at full speed. As Calgary was launching its Barracuda and dispatching the Law Enforcement Detachment team, the USCGC Active dispatched  its team to approach the vessel of interest.Calgary arrived on scene and sighted numerous bales floating in the water. As they approached the floating objects, they were discovered to be bales of what was suspected to be contraband.The Law Enforcement Detachment was quickly dispatched to recover the bales and investigate the contents. Twenty two bales were recovered, (with an additional 28 in the panga), and the contents were confirmed to be marijuana, totaling approximately 1,200 pounds.“Shortly after embarking the Law Enforcement Detachment crew, we were presented with an opportunity to conduct trans-national Maritime Interdiction Operations. I was impressed with the seamless interoperability between the two units. It was a true testament to the great cooperation with our partners to the south,” said Cdr John Wilson, Commanding Officer of Calgary. “It was a great day for the whole ship’s company to be a part of the frontline...

More than 500 sailors from HMC Ships Calgary, Winnipeg, Brandon and Yellowknife have departed Esquimalt harbour last week to take part in operations and exercises off the coast of Southern California.Supported by two CH-124 Sea King helicopters from 443 Maritime Helicopter Squadron, the ships will participate in a Task Group Exercise (TGEX) with the United States Navy and Japanese Maritime Self–Defense Force from Oct. 20 to 31.  “The Canadian Pacific Fleet routinely conducts operations and exercises with partner nations. The high-tempo training builds strong bilateral and multilateral ties between the Royal Canadian Navy and the navies of other nations,” said Cmdre Bob Auchterlonie, Commander Canadian Fleet Pacific.The aim of Task Group Exercises are to enhance combat readiness while improving interoperability and tactical excellence. This specific TGEX will focus on interoperability between the Royal Canadian Navy, United States Navy, and the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force. It is hosted by the United States Navy’s 3rd Fleet. Before the commencement of TGEX, HMC Ships Brandon, Yellowknife, and Calgary will participate in San Francisco Fleet Week - a tradition in which active navy ships dock in a major city for several days for military demonstrations, airshows, and guided tours of the ships.On completion of TGEX, Yellowknife and Brandon will join Operation Caribbe, Canada’s contribution to Operation Martillo, a U.S. Joint Interagency Task Force South-led interagency and multinational effort among Western Hemisphere and European nations, designed to improve regional security and deter criminal activity. As part of Operation Caribbe, the Canadian Armed Forces support multinational efforts to address illicit trafficking by providing naval and air capabilities to detect and monitor suspect activities on the water off the Caribbean and Pacific coasts of Central America. 

[caption id="attachment_8226" align="alignnone" width="300"] Firefighter Mark Walker takes in the sights during a high line exercise at the CFB Esquimalt Fire Department, Oct. 8.[/caption]The training tower of the recently constructed fire hall served as a platform for a unique training session last week.Firefighters from the CFB Esquimalt Fire Department took part in Confined Space and Rope Rescue certification course taught by Roco Rescue Canada. It included a high line rescue of a mock victim. During a high line rescue, a series of pulleys, lines, and anchors are used to create a line across a space. A crew can then haul a rescue technician across and over an obstacle to the victim. During a shipboard emergency, the high line can be used to haul a rescue technician over open water.“That way you can take someone who has been injured, and instead of going across gangways and up and down ladders you can get them straight to the jetty,” says Keith Shields of Roco Rescue, who helped take the firefighters through the course.Given the unique environment firefighters operate in, Shields says it’s important they be prepared for a variety of situations.“Working in maritime and military environments presents some unique challenges,” he says. “With these different techniques, they have the tools needed to respond to them.”The course culminated in a day-long written and practical exam, where firefighters were quizzed on proper operation, terminology, and theory, while also performing practical drills using the techniques learned in training.“It’s a timed exam, and they’re being held to a national standard, so it can be pretty tough,” says Shields.When it comes to the course itself, firefighter Lieutenant Keith Lee says the course goes a long way towards bridging the gap in experience.“Some of this is new knowledge for a lot of us, but it’s the right training to...

When it comes to sports, it’s always nice when a little glory makes its way to the sidelines. That’s just what happened when two dedicated and passionate people from CFB Esquimalt got a tip of the hat on a national scale.CPO2 (Ret’d) Dan Fogarty and MS (Ret’d) Jeffrey Green have both been recognized with a nomination for a Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) Sports Award. Fogarty netted a nomination as Male Coach of the Year, while Green is in the running for Official of the Year.“It’s thrilling to be recognized on a national level,” says Fogarty, who retired this year and now works for Fleet Maintenance Facility as a civilian contractor. “You know, you just do what you do, not for the recognition but for the love of it. To get acknowledged for what you love it pretty awesome.”Fogarty has coached the CFB Esquimalt ball hockey team since 2005; this year is the first year he did not coach in almost a decade. The team and its accomplishments saw significant growth under his leadership.“When I started there were players that could barely hold a stick,” he says. “They practiced, and I gave them a helping hand here and there, but over time they grew, and through word of mouth got more people out, and before long we had a real team on our hands.”That team took home the CAF Regional’s in 2013, and had a fourth place showing at the CAF Nationals.For Green, he began officiating hockey games following a life-long love of the sport. A player for many years, he made the transition to the lines to try something new.“It seemed interesting to see it from the other side, so I thought I’d give it a shot,” he says. “The interactions with the players and coaches really gave me a...

[caption id="attachment_8106" align="alignnone" width="300"] MWO Mike Tuohy (left) and LCol Patrick MacNamara kneel by the Wally Sweetman memorial plaque.[/caption]Five members of 443 Maritime Helicopter Squadron paid tribute to one of their own in August - a fellow aviator who died in an accident two decades ago.While performing a mountain flying training exercise, the group flew their CH-124 Sea King helicopter to a mountain saddle southwest of Keremeos, B.C., that is perched at an altitude of 7,400 feet. The destination is a place known as “Wally’s Saddle”, named after Major Wally Sweetman, a Sea King pilot and former 443 (MH) Squadron member, whose sacrifice and heroism 20 years ago will not be forgotten. During the morning of April 28, 1994, a transfer of Sea King helicopters was taking place from 12 Wing in Shearwater, Nova Scotia, to 443 (MH) Squadron in Patricia Bay, British Columbia. Major Sweetman was the aircraft commander and Major Bob Henderson was the co-pilot.En-route over the Bay of Fundy near Saint John, New Brunswick, the crew experienced an aircraft emergency.  A fuel line broke, causing complete engine failure and a fire on board the aircraft at 6,000 feet.As the aircrew were preparing for a forced landing, burning fuel was entering the cabin from above causing blinding smoke to rapidly fill the cockpit. In spite of the chaos, the pilot performed an autorotation and managed to execute a survivable landing. The Navigator and Flight Engineer escaped, albeit with severe burns. Unfortunately, both Wally Sweetman and Bob Henderson were killed in the ensuing inferno.  Their actions, however, live on as an example of bravery, courage, and outstanding airmanship.In 1999, a memorial plaque was commissioned in Wally Sweetman’s honour. His friends and relatives thought there would be no better place to remember him than in the area he loved so much, located in...

[caption id="attachment_8109" align="alignnone" width="300"] The first of the Royal Canadian Navy’s Arctic/Offshore Patrol Ships is named after Vice-Admiral Harry DeWolf, who was decorated for outstanding service throughout his naval career.[/caption]Prime Minister Stephen Harper announced Sept. 19 the name of the first Royal Canadian Navy’s Arctic/Offshore Patrol Ships (AOPS).Her Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Harry DeWolf is named in honour of the wartime Canadian naval hero.HMCS Harry DeWolf is the first of the AOPS designed to better enable the RCN to exercise sovereignty in Canadian waters, including in the Arctic.The AOPS will be known as the Harry DeWolf Class, with HMCS Harry DeWolf as the lead ship. Subsequent ships in the class will be named to honour other prominent Canadian naval heroes who served their country with the highest distinction.This is the first time in its 104-year history that the RCN is naming a class of ships after a prominent Canadian naval figure.A native of Bedford, Nova Scotia, Vice-Admiral Harry DeWolf (RCN) was decorated for outstanding service throughout his naval career, which included wartime command of HMCS St. Laurent from 1939-40, and later, his 1943-44 command of HMCS Haida, known as the “Fightingest Ship in the RCN.”Canada defends more coastline than any other country, as it is bounded by three oceans. The AOPS will conduct sovereignty and surveillance operations in Canadian waters on all three coasts, including in the Arctic.The AOPS will also be used to support other units of the Canadian Armed Forces in the conduct of maritime-related operations and to support other government departments in carrying out their mandates, as required.The AOPS will be built by Irving Shipbuilding Inc. in Halifax, Nova Scotia.DND

[caption id="attachment_8015" align="alignnone" width="300"] John “Jack” Curry, youngest child of Beatrice and Charles Curry, speaks at the unveiling of “The Curry Contingent” exhibit.[/caption]A new display at the CFB Esquimalt Military and Naval Museum is shining a light on an oft-forgotten piece of military history.“The Curry Contingent: A Canadian Family’s 100+ Years of Service” chronicles the history of the Curry family. It began withCharles Curry who served Canada in the First World War; his nine children followed in his footsteps serving Canada in either military or civilian service.“This is the story of an ordinary family going to great lengths to serve their country,” said Base Commander, Capt(N) Steve Waddell on Sept. 22 at the display’s unveiling. “To have a single family be so devoted to their nation, and supporting its values, freedom, and citizens, is truly an inspiration.”Consisting of letters, interviews, and family photos, the display goes through each Curry’s service, and life before and after the military.John “Jack” Curry Senior, the youngest of Charles and Beatrice Curry’s nine children, and one of two surviving “Curry Contingent” siblings, came to the display’s opening from Regina, Saskatchewan, where he now lives. Too young to join his siblings during the Second World War, Jack enlisted in the Royal Canadian Engineers in 1954. Serving in Germany, Chilliwack, and Egypt, he retired in the 1970s.“Those were great years,” he says. “It was a family tradition, and they were truly some of the best years of my life. I wouldn’t trade anything for them.”Jack says the display touched him deeply.“It’s a great thing to have our history join the history of the military,” he says. “It’s hard to believe anyone would go to this length just for our family, but it is a great thing to see.”The Curry legacy continued following the Second World War, with...

[caption id="attachment_8012" align="alignnone" width="300"] Clearance diver students learn how to use the hyperbaric chamber at Fleet Diving Unit (Pacific).[/caption]At first glance the Hyperbaric Chamber at Fleet Diving Unit (Pacific) (FDU(P)) looks like a time machine or even a futuristic prison cell; but the students of the Clearance Diver Course quickly learned it’s the best way to save a diver’s life.Gathered around the many knobs, buttons, and valves rising from the consoles, they were instructed on the procedures for treating divers whose bodies have become acclimatized to various depths and pressures.The normal atmospheric condition experienced on dry land is called normobaric pressure. When divers go under the surface, the pressure of the water and air above them increases with depth. This additional pressure causes several changes in the way a human body processes blood gases such as oxygen and nitrogen. If a diver surfaces too quickly, the gases in the blood can convert to bubbles and cause a very dangerous situation called the bends, or decompression sickness. A hyperbaric chamber can return a diver to the same depth and pressure experienced during the actual dive. This procedure in the hyperbaric chamber allows the nitrogen in the bubbles to escape naturally, leaving only absorbable oxygen.“It can be a fairly complicated process, but it’s absolutely vital to get it right,” says LS Mathew Kyte, one of the instructors at FDU (P). “This is just one piece of the Clearance Diver Course, but it is a very important one, and we want to make sure everyone is prepared for anything.”When a diver surfaces and is considered to be at a risk of decompression related injuries, they’re moved to the hyperbaric chamber, which works by pumping pressurized air into the metal container. The diver remains in the chamber anywhere from four to eight hours, sometimes...

[caption id="attachment_8003" align="alignnone" width="300"] Janice Lang, DRDC photographerLeft: The Aphid Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) soars above the testing ground at Canadian Forces Station Alert. Used for scouting and surveillance, this small, remotely controlled helicopter is capable of flying 100km/h.[/caption]DND is currently using test drones and looking into the viability of using unmanned systems in the North.In August, 14 scientific and military personnel travelled to Canadian Forces Station (CFS) Alert, Nunavut, to test the viability of both ground and aerial unmanned vehicles—also called drones—in arctic environments.Conducting eight experiments over a 12 day period, the viability of these vehicles was tested in search and rescue, hazard mitigation, and communications simulations.“We were interested in the deployment of unmanned vehicles in terms of supporting DND operations,” says Dr. Simon Monckton, a scientist with Defence Research and Development Canada (DRDC), and the lead Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) scientist on the Joint Arctic Experiment. “Unmanned vehicles have never been piloted this far north before, so we were unsure how they would operate in such an extreme environment. It was our biggest question setting out.”During the exercise, two types of unmanned vehicles were implemented. The first, the Unmanned Ground Vehicles (UGV), were used for up-close investigation. About the size of a two-person All-Terrain-Vehicle, they were outfitted with tracks instead of tires to navigate the rugged Arctic environment. One of the two UGVs also featured a large manipulator arm on the front bumper, which is capable of lifting 200lbs at full extension. Teams in a large tracked vehicle following the UGVs piloted them remotely.The UAVs were utilized for surveillance, mapping, and reconnaissance. Converted from commercially available helicopters, they are about six-metres long, and feature a variety of still and video equipment. They can fly 100km/h for an hour and half before refuelling. Teams situated in a fixed location...

[caption id="attachment_7917" align="alignnone" width="300"] Joan O. Thomas receives the Minister of Veterans Affairs Commendation for her work with the Royal United Service Institute, and her instrumental role in raising two plaques commemorating the service of all Nursing Sister servicewomen during the Second World War, of which Thomas served herself.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_7918" align="alignnone" width="300"] James MacMillan-Murphy is honoured for his work as a Peacekeeper, and his dedicated involvement in various veterans programs including the Editor and Founder of the Blue Beret newsletter, founder of the Canadian Peacekeeping Veterans Association, and his work with the Royal Canadian Legion.[/caption]Julian Fantino, Minster of Veterans Affairs, visited CFB Esquimalt Sept. 12 to recognize 11 Vancouver Island veterans for their service to Canada.The veterans each received the Minister of Veterans Affairs Commendation, which honours veterans and civilians for exceptional work within the veteran community.“It’s a privilege to recognize the selfless efforts of these individuals who have generously given their time and energy to support and care for our veterans,” said Minister Fantino.“Their exemplary contributions are indicative of the enormous respect and gratitude shared by all Canadians for the men and women who have served in uniform.”The awards were handed out during a banquet in the Rainbow Room at the Chiefs’ and Petty Officers’ Mess.Among the recipients were two Victoria residents, James Patrick MacMillan-Murphy, and Joan O. Thomas.MacMillan-Murphy is a retired Peacekeeper who was recognized for his work as founder of the Canadian Peacekeeping Veterans Association, the founder and editor of The Blue Beret newsletter, and work with the Royal Canadian Legion and the Air Cadet League of Canada.Thomas served as a Nursing Sister in the Royal Canadian Army Medical Corp during the Second World War. Since then, she served as secretary-treasurer for the Royal United Services Institute in the 1970s, and was instrumental in the raising of two plaques commemorating all Nursing Sister servicewomen, which now stand in Langford’s Memorial Park. Shawn O’Hara, Staff Writer 

[caption id="attachment_7914" align="alignnone" width="300"] The Venture Class of 1964 raises a glass to new and old friends, and those who have died, during the 50th anniversary of their graduation.[/caption]Laughs were shared, glasses were raised, and more than a few tears were shed when 25 men gathered at Naval Office Training Centre (NOTC) Venture to mark 50 years since they had passed through its doors.Members of the Venture Class of ‘64 gathered in the Wellend Room at the Venture Accommodation Block to bid farewell after a three-day celebration of their momentous milestone.“It’s nice to see all these old faces, even after all this time,” said Cdr (Ret’d) Graeme Evans, a resident of Victoria and graduate of the 1964 Short Service Officer Plan, who came for the festivities. “We all stayed in relatively close contact during our careers, and even in our retired lives it’s still refreshing to see people again.”Get-togethers like this have happened every five years since 1974. Organized largely by Cdr (Ret’d) Matt Durnford, they began as a way to keep tabs on old friends, and maintain bonds made many years ago.“We all went through a lot together back in the day, and you don’t forget friends like these,” says Cdr Durnford, who now lives in Riverport, Nova Scotia. “We’ve all spread out over the last 50 years, so it’s nice to be able to get together, catch up, and remember the old times.”The celebrations included a meet and greet at the Royal Victoria Yacht Club, dinner at the Union Club, and a lot of laughs.The class also raised a glass of 35-year-old port to those of their group that have passed on.“It’s been a long time, and we’ve lost more than a few,” says Cdr Durnford. “They are in our hearts and our minds, and we will never...

[caption id="attachment_7949" align="alignnone" width="300"] HMCS Protecteur is one of four Royal Canadian Navy ships being retired.[/caption]As the Royal Canadian Navy undergoes its most extensive peacetime modernization in history, Vice Admiral Mark Norman, Commander of the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN), announced on Friday the upcoming retirement of four ships that have reached the end of their operational lives.The ships are HMC Ships Protecteur and Preserver, two Protecteur-class auxiliary oil replenishment (AOR) ships; and HMC Ships Iroquois and Algonquin, two Iroquois-class guided missile destroyers (DDG). The retirement of these vessels has been anticipated for some time, and is a step towards the introduction of new ships and capabilities set to be delivered through the National Shipbuilding Procurement Strategy (NSPS), as well as recognition of the RCN’s commitment to the responsible use of public funds while maintaining Canada’s naval readiness.From the Admiral:The summer has passed quickly and I hope that you each had an opportunity to take some vacation. It has been a busy summer across the Formation as we have continued to deliver on our core missions including ships to sea, SAR, Cadets as well as being prepared to respond as necessary within our JTFP construct.At the same time, the navy has continued its implementation of the executive plan as we prepare, with energy and excitement, to receive the future fleet of modernized frigates, Arctic and Offshore Patrol Ships, Joint Support Ships and, in due course, the Canadian Surface Combatant.Yesterday [Sept. 18], I was thrilled to hear the announcement of the name of the first AOPS – HMCS Harry DeWolf. Today [Sept 19], we took another important step in that journey with the Commander of the Royal Canadian Navy’s announcement of the plan to decommission HMC Ships Protecteur, Algonquin, Preserver and Iroquois. Each of these ships has served us well for decades...

[caption id="attachment_7740" align="alignnone" width="300"] PO1 Michael Mitchell (left) and Lt(N) Andrew James (right) stand with the family of Commander Rowland Bourke, a First World War hero, former Esquimalt resident, and recipient of the Victoria Cross. Commander Bourke was honoured with the unveiling of a historical display detailing his life, military service, and legacy.[/caption]Next time you’re in the Esquimalt Branch of the Greater Victoria Public Library, keep an eye out for a piece of local military history.A new display details the life and career of Commander Rowland Bourke, a First World War Royal Navy Volunteer Reserve Officer, one of four naval Victoria Cross recipients, and a resident of Esquimalt from 1932 until his death in 1958.Featuring images of Cdr Bourke, his former residence on 1253 Lyall Street, his medals, and his resting place in Royal Oak Burial Park, the display is a thorough and educational look at this local hero’s life.Born in London, England, in 1885, Commander Bourke immigrated to Canada in 1902. At the outbreak of the Great War, he volunteered for the Royal Canadian Navy, but was rejected due to his poor eyesight.Travelling at his own expense, the young Bourke made his way back to the United Kingdom and joined the Royal Navy Volunteer Reserve.“He was a pretty incredible figure. His dedication to service was inspirational, and gained him quite a deal of recognition later in his career,” says Greg Evans, an archivist for the Township of Esquimalt, and one of the people instrumental in the creation of the Cdr Bourke display. “For such an influential figure, not many people know he lived right here in Esquimalt.We wanted to do something to change that.”Bourke is noted for having received both the Distinguished Service Order (DSO) and the Victoria Cross.During operations in the Zeebrugge raid in Belgium, April 1918, Bourke piloted a small boat to HMS Brilliant, which was under heavy fire, leading the rescue of 38 officers and enlisted men. For this he was awarded the DSO.In May of...

[caption id="attachment_7760" align="alignnone" width="300"] The Sikorsky SH-60 Seahawk helicopter from Frigate Cristóbal Colón F105 takes off from the flight deck of HMCS Regina during a replenishment at sea with FS Marne A630 on July 3 in the Mediterranean Sea during Operation Reassurance.[/caption]After a highly successful eight-month deployment, HMCS Regina will arrive at CFB Esquimalt on the morning of Wednesday, Sept. 17.I wish to sincerely congratulate the entire crew aboard Regina for your outstanding work. I commend you for your flexibility and determination that made your contribution invaluable to Canada, the international community, and the people who rely on safe seas every day. Your involvement with NATO and the numerous port visits you conducted cemented relations with our international allies and sent a clear message that Canada is a capable force across the world.Regina represented the Royal Canadian Navy with operational excellence and professionalism as part of Operation Artemis in the Arabian Sea and as part of Operation Reassurance in the Mediterranean. Your participation in both of these operations contributed to international peace and security far from home.Among your outstanding achievements of the 254 days deployed, you spent 212 of those days at sea, and travelled a total of 61,300 nautical miles. The CH-124 Sea King helicopter flew a total of 171 sorties with a total of 388 hours of flying time.On March 31, you intercepted and boarded a dhow off the east coast of Africa and discovered 132 packages of heroin weighing approximately 132 kilograms in total. This act undoubtedly diverted profits from terrorist organizations and prevented harmful drugs from reaching Canadian streets. A job well done to all of those involved.I would also like to thank the entire staff across all MARPAC units for your dedicated and tireless efforts, which allowed HMCS Regina to deploy. The level of professionalism and support you have provided these past eight and a half months has been outstanding. Your skills, knowledge, and hard work keep our ships safe and operational whether at home...

Ever wondered why a red sky at night is a sailor’s delight? One former HMCS Oriole Commanding Officer is looking to pass on the secret.Scott Crawshaw, who served as Oriole's Captain from 1999 to 2003, is hosting a Basic Weather Forecasting program Nov. 1, to teach civilian and military mariners the ins and outs of weather prediction.“This is a skill all mariners should have,” says Crawshaw, who currently works as J2 Geographical Intelligence Maritime for Canadian Forces Intelligence Command as a Lieutenant-Commander, ensuring vessels throughout the Canadian Armed Forces have proper, up-to-date charts and hydrographic information.“When you’re out on the water you’re at the whim of the elements, and if you can’t avoid a bad situation you should at least know when one is coming.”Crawshaw’s body of knowledge is extensive, as he has charted courses across the world, and tallied 50,000 nautical miles aboard Oriole, and his personnel vessel Peregrinata.“I retired for a few years, and sailed the world with my family on Peregrinata. I learned a lot about myself and the sea in those years,” he says. “Hopefully the lessons I’ve learned will be of use to my students.”The program is being hosted through the Bluewater Cruising Association, a club that Crawshaw has been a member for the past 14 years. During the weather forecasting program, students will learn to combine the information gleaned from weather forecasts, as well as personal observations, to predict weather changes and their effect on sailing conditions.“There is a lot of information you can get from simple weather readings and forecast maps online, as long as you know what you’re looking for,” says Crawshaw. “It’s just a matter of having the pieces of the puzzle in front of you, and knowing how to put them together.”One teaching tool he will use is a virtual race from Victoria to Hawaii. Using weather readings, charts, and the information learned during the seminar, students will have to chart a safe course across the Pacific.“I find that having...

The lives of two Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) airmen were remembered Aug. 28 in a solemn and moving ceremony near the place where they were killed over 50 years ago.Lieutenants Norman J. Ogden and Donald S. Clark died when their RCN T-33 jet trainer crashed near the peak of Mount Strachan in Cyprus Provincial Park Nov. 23, 1963. This tragedy happened the day after President John F. Kennedy was assassinated.The assassination was covered for days by media around the world, and somewhat lessened the impact of the Canadian naval aviator’s deaths, who were killed in their service to Canada.Their loss was all but forgotten until some 50 years later, when a memorial project was started by the Air Force Association of Canada, and the Battle of Britain Memorial Fund, to properly pay homage to them.It was supported by retired RCN aviators across Canada, and this culminated in a ceremony this memorial plaque unveiling Thursday, Aug. 28 near the crash site, which is known as Cyprus Mountain, a ski area north of Vancouver, B.C.Commander (Ret’d) Al Horner, of Victoria, was a fellow naval aviator with VU-33, the RCN Squadron based at Pat Bay where 443 MH Squadron  is now located. Cdr Horner was also a close friend of the two dead RCN pilots, and he played a major role initially in the search, and then sadly, their burial.“On Nov. 23, Ian Powick and I were tasked to take two HUPs [RCN helicopters] to Vancouver to assist in the search for the missing aircraft,” said Cdr Horner in his remarks at the ceremony. “The weather was typical for November, low cloud, not much visibility, and very short days in terms of daylight.”He then explained that the first two days were hampered by low ceilings and their searches were limited and not successful....

Last Thursday, the Esquimalt community gathered at Memorial Park to witness two historical artifacts be reborn.Two artillery guns, captured by Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) personnel during the First World War, were unveiled after being refurbished, repainted, and repaired to a nearly new condition.“The 100th anniversary of World War One gives us all a chance to reflect on our country’s military history,” said Mayor Barb Desjardins to the assembled crowd of military members, politicians, veterans, and civilians at the unveiling. “We are here to preserve that history, and remember the sacrifices made. It is our duty to maintain these guns as a symbol of that sacrifice.”Base Commander, Capt(N) Steve Waddell was on hand to represent the CAF.“The losses suffered by Canada during its time spent in the Great War were overwhelming,” he said. “The refurbished trophy gun monuments were taken during conflict as a sign of victory, but we are not here today to imply that war itself is a victorious endeavour. War for any side, in any struggle, brings only suffering, pain and loss.”The guns, a permanent fixture of Memorial Park since 1920, are two of only three such artifacts in the province; the other resides in Kelowna. The project to refurbish them was spearheaded by Esquimalt Public Works employee Mike Reed, who began the project in the fall of 2012.“We were thinking about what we could do for the centenary, and the subject of the guns came up,” says Reed. “They’d been falling further and further into disrepair, and it seemed like the right thing to do to preserve the history of the Township.”Both guns were captured in two separate engagements. One of the guns, an anti-tank weapon, was captured from the Bavarian Army by the 2nd Canadian Mounted Rifles at Vimy Ridge in 1917. The other,  a Krupp...

Next spring, a group of children from Victoria hope to honour the past with the power of song.The Victoria Children’s Choir is hoping to go to Holland for a two week choral tour honouring the country’s historic bond with Canada, but only if they can raise enough funds to cover travel expenses.While the trip is still months away, Boudewyn van Oort, Board President of the West Coast Children’s Choral Society, of which the Victoria Children’s Choir is a part of, says fundraising must begin early due to the high costs involved. Based on airfare, accommodations, food, and other expenses, he estimates the cost of each child, staff member, and chaperone at roughly $4,000.While it would be difficult to cover the entire cost of the trip through fundraising for about 35 singers in both group’s junior and senior choir, van Oort says the goal is to help ease the cost for the families.“It’s a lot of money, but trips like this are always worth the experience for the kids,” he says. “Obviously it’s much too much for the families to raise by themselves, but we’ve been doing all we can with bottle-drives and chocolate sales.”The plan is to have the children perform during the nation’s “Liberation Day” celebrations in May 2015 in Amsterdam.“When Canada led the liberation efforts in Holland, it created a bond between the two countries that is still very much honoured today. We wanted to do something ourselves to pay our respects to that bond,” says van Oort. “We’ve made such trips before, like our trip to Austria in 2011, and we thought this would be perfect opportunity to teach the children about the world and show the Dutch people their talent.”The group received an invitation to take part in a formal Remembrance Ceremony at the Canadian War...

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="544"] Children can take part in activities[/caption] With the back-to-school date drawing ever closer, and the end of the teachers’ strike no where in sight, Personnel Support Programs (PSP) is hoping to lend parents a helping hand. Beginning Sept. 2, the Recreation Department will offer weekly camps for children out of school. Based out of the Youth Activity Centre (YAC) in Belmont Park, kids can take part in games, crafts, nature walks, and other activities to keep their minds and social skills sharp during the teachers’ strike. “When we realized that school most likely wouldn’t be in session by the start of September we wanted to put something together to give families a helping hand,” says Megan McDougall, PSP Recreation Coordinator. “We’ve got a lot of great people working with these camps, so we wanted to use our expertise to take some stress off these working parents.” Camps are modelled after their summer camps. The first week, beginning Sept. 2, costs $100, with each subsequent five-day week costing $125. Camps will run until school begins. “We really do offer some of the most thorough and affordable childcare in the city,” says McDougall. “Hopefully this will be a good option for the military community, and we can help some families out along the way.” Shawn O'Hara Staff Writer

[caption id="attachment_7552" align="alignnone" width="536"] Soldiers from the British Columbia Dragoons conduct a water crossing during Exercise KOOTENAY COUGAR 2014 in Trail, BC on August 24, 2014.[/caption] Over 400 Canadian Armed Forces members descended on the city of Trail, British Columbia, in late August for Exercise Kootenay Cougar 2014. It was an intensive four-day exercise that had the primary training audience exposed to a wide scope of scenarios involving resources and expertise from 408 Tactical Helicopter Squadron, 1 Field Ambulance, and HMCS Discovery. “The mantra of this year’s exercise is train to excite,” explained Lieutenant-Colonel Nigel Whittaker, Director for Exercise Kootenay Cougar 2014. “We’ve designed eight different stands that provide a real variety of challenges to our troops and junior leaders; however, each challenge tests the core soldiering skills of shooting, moving, and communicating.” Two Royal Canadian Navy members from HMCS Discovery, a Naval Reserve unit in Vancouver, operated the safety boat for one of the eight stands. In the stand’s scenario, the platoon was advised of an enemy’s position some distance down a reservoir. The platoon had to row a dingy approximately 2,000 meters, meet with an informant to gain further intelligence on the exact location of the enemy, disembark and complete a reconnaissance, and ultimately destroy the enemy position. A father and daughter team, Lt(N) Desmond Doyle and OS Caroline Doyle ensured the portion of the scenario that took place on the water went smoothly. “The troops are expected to get themselves back in the boat should they fall out, but we’re there as a sort of insurance policy,” explains Lt(N) Doyle. “It’s a great opportunity to help out the Army and bring some of the expertise and skills I’ve developed as a sailor.” Many of the stands required an opposing force, ‘OPFOR’, to make the scenarios realistic. In...

[caption id="attachment_7543" align="alignnone" width="517"] Senior Naval Reserve leadership attend an interactive workshop during the Naval Reserve Division Command Teams Training Seminar[/caption] Senior leadership of the Royal Canadian Naval Reserve from across the country met in Quebec City from Aug. 14-17, to discuss where the Formation had been, where it currently stands, and where it is going. The theme of this year’s command team conference was “Naval Reserve Integration”, an important principle of the Royal Canadian Navy as it continues forward with the “One Navy” reorganization concept.  The conference was chaired by Commodore David Craig, Commander of the Naval Reserve, and attended by representatives from the Canadian Naval Training System, personnel from Ottawa, and the Commanding Officer and Coxswain from each of Canada’s 24 Naval Reserve Divisions – or “stone frigates.” Over the course of the three days, attendees participated in informational presentations and interactive workshops on Naval Reserve organization and training. These served to equip senior Naval Reserve leadership with the information and tools to tackle the challenges they may face as the Royal Canadian Navy integrates all force generation processes. Among those in attendance was RAdm Bill Truelove, Commander Maritime Forces Pacific (MARPAC), who has taken on increased responsibility as the Naval Reserve becomes amalgamated with MARPAC. “This conference marks an important milestone for the Naval Reserve as we continue to transform it into an institution of excellence for the 21st century. With the centennial behind us and future procurement projects on the horizon, we must now lay the foundation to ensure the Naval Reserve plays an integral role of augmenting our maritime forces in the future of our navy,” said RAdm Truelove. With the release of the 2013-2017 Executive Plan by VAdm Mark Norman, Commander of the RCN, the Naval Reserve is accelerating the transition of becoming increasingly...

[caption id="attachment_7412" align="alignnone" width="200"] Novelist Brenda Corey Dunne with her latest book, "Dependent".[/caption] For novelist and military spouse Brenda Corey Dunne, her work isn’t just a book on a shelf, it’s a piece of her. A few weeks ago she released her second novel, “Dependent”, which follows 45-year-old military spouse Ellen Michaels. When Michaels loses her husband in a training accident, she sets out on a journey of self-discovery and growth, reclaiming a sense of self she left behind following her marriage. “It’s a very raw story,” says Dunne. “It was difficult to write, because I had to get into the mind of someone experiencing these unbridled, painful emotions.I think what came out is a very honest story, and I’m very proud of it.” Dunne’s inspiration came partly from her own life, putting her own circumstances in the same framing as that of the fiction Michaels. She is a former Air Force Physiotherapy Officer and wife to Wing Commander of 19 Wing Comox Col Thomas Dunne. “I can’t imagine what I would do if I’d lost my husband. He’s been on deployment before but has always come home safe. It was hard to put myself through that thought process,” she says. “It’s important to put yourself into your writing, so what comes out is as real and as human as possible.” So intense are the book’s contents, Dunne says after submitting the manuscript to her publisher she received a concerned email. “I think she was considering calling social services,” she says, laughing. “It can get pretty grim, so it can be hard to separate the author from the fiction, but I assured her that I’m very happy with my life.” Already a published author, Dunne says the beginnings of what would become “Dependent” were first penned in 2004. So long has the process been, she’d already released her first novel, a historical fiction set in her native New Brunswick, before even finishing the manuscript for “Dependent”. “My first novel, ‘Treasure...

[caption id="attachment_7404" align="alignnone" width="199"] CFB Esquimalt Firefighters take part in a positive pressure attack exercise at an empty house near Work Point.[/caption] Base firefighters assembled in Work Point two weeks ago to keep their much-needed emergency skills perfect. Using a smoke machine to mimic a smoke-filled residence in an empty house near Work Point, the crew tackled a simulated emergency. The technique exercised was a Positive Pressure Attack (PPA). A PPA is a firefighting technique in which cool air is blasted into a burning building with a high powered fan. This ambient air pressurizes the inside atmosphere while also reducing the inside temperature, increasing the chances for anyone trapped inside to survive. Once the firefighters have created an adequate exhaust opening, the super-heated gases, smoke, and other combustible fire debris vent out of the building. “Techniques like this can bring the heat in a building down from 1,600 degrees to 300 degrees in 30 seconds,” says Randy Morton, Battalion Chief at the CFB Esquimalt Fire Department. “That makes it more survivable for occupants, and gives firefighters more time to get them out safely. It also clears smoke and super-heated fire gases, giving firefighters a clearer field of vision as they advance into the hazardous environment.” Breaching the entrance, firefighters moved into the building, and swept it for occupants and the source of the fire. Within five minutes they completed a search of the entire structure, extinguished the fire, and exited with a mannequin in their arms. “This is the kind of response I like to see,” said Morton during the team’s debrief. “This was efficient, effective work. This is why we train to ensure procedures are followed, and a quick attack is provided without delay.” This exercise and others like it are part of the department’s daily shift workday. Every 24 hour shift the department conducts an exercise. “We don’t get calls every day, but it’s important for us to stay on top of our game,” says Morton. “Working in...

[caption id="attachment_7396" align="alignnone" width="318"] RAVEN candidates stand ready during their graduation ceremony on Aug. 21.[/caption] Thirty candidates from the Canadian Forces RAVEN Aboriginal Youth Employment Program stood proud and hearkened to reviewing officer Capt(N) Tim Gijzen’s congratulatory words at their graduation ceremony held at the Work Point Parade Square last Thursday. The six-week course – five weeks of Primary Army Reserve Basic Military Qualification and a three-day Culture Camp on Aboriginal traditions — attracted First Nation, Métis, and Inuit students from across the nation to explore the Canadian Armed Forces. OS Katcheech was inspired to join the program through the Federation of B.C. Youth and Care Networks. “I told [one of the caregivers] that I wanted to live a bit before I became a teacher and she told me there’s a program for native youth. I applied a week before the course; it’s a miracle I’m here.” said OS Katcheech. “When I first got here I noticed how everybody was nervous. I thought people would be cocky, people would be ‘I’m the tough one’. I was surprised how even and equal we all were.” The RAVEN program provides Canadian Aboriginal youth an opportunity to experience life in the Canadian Armed  Forces. On successful completion of the program, it also offers RAVEN participants the option to pursue a career in the Reserve Force, Regular Force, or in a civilian occupation within the Department of National Defence. The Culture Camp was designed to ease the transition from civilian to military lifestyle, and focuses on common spiritual beliefs conducted by Elders of different First Nations and Aboriginal groups. Canadian Forces RAVEN Aboriginal Youth Employment Program, Serial 0085’s award sheet: • RAVEN Candidate OS Perry Assu was presented with the Top Student Award as well as the Commandant’s Trophy for Overall Highest Achievement. • RAVEN Candidate OS Brandi Lenglet was presented with the Comradeship Award. • RAVEN Candidate OS Elijah Charlie was presented with the Personal Achievement Award. • RAVEN Candidate OS Jolene Rockhill...

[caption id="attachment_7441" align="alignnone" width="300"] LCol Steve Jourdain, displays his book, “Mon Afghanistan”, a collection of lessons learned during his deployment to Afghanistan in 2009 as Commander Cobra Company.[/caption] In the hallowed halls of the legendary École Spéciale Militaire de Saint-Cyr in Guer, France, military personnel and civilian enthusiasts gathered for two days of presentations, talks, and arm-chair chats at the 5th Annual Festival International du Livre Militaire (FILM) July 18-19. The festivities had Canadian representation in the form of LCol Steve Jourdain, Chief of Operations of the 2nd Canadian Division, and author of war memoir “Mon Afghanistan”, a record of his time serving as Commander of Cobra Company in Sperwan Ghar in 2009. “I was contacted by a coordinator who had my name passed to him by a reviewer,” says LCol Jourdain. “I was excited at the prospect of presenting alongside so many other military personnel, plus I already had plans to visit France, so there was no way I was going to pass it up.” With a release in 2013, “Mon Afghanistan” received solid reviews from both critics and the military community. It is a personal and honest reflection on his time in Sperwan Ghar. LCol Jourdain says he was happy to write down his thoughts on the role of Canadians in the Afghan conflict, the responsibilities of leading men and women in combat situations, and the repercussions when those combat situations resulted in lost lives. “It was a period of great growth for me. I learned a lot of things there that have given me a new perspective on my life and the lives of others,” says LCol Jourdain. “I hope that with my book I can pass on those perspectives and lessons to people who need them.” He says the idea for the book began long before...