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[caption id="attachment_31217" align="aligncenter" width="595"] Chief Petty Officer Max Bernays. Photo: Canada.ca[/caption] Lt(N) Anastasiya Karakoy, HMCS Max Bernays UPAR — Many of us who have held the privilege of living in relative peace and stability find great challenge in appreciating the full magnitude of adversity faced by the generations who came before us. For the thousands of members currently serving in the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN), walking into work at HMC Dockyard on a calm, sunny Halifax morning makes it difficult to imagine this same place, less than a century ago, as an assembly point for the countless ships serving in the Battle of the Atlantic, the success of which fundamentally supported Allied victory in the Second World War. The hardship faced during the Battle of the Atlantic gives rise to some of the most inspiring stories of courage and heroism Canada has ever known. The story of Chief Petty Officer (CPO) Max Bernays is just one of these stories. It serves as an indispensable example of bravery which will continue to inspire generations of Canadians.  Who was Max Bernays? Born in 1910 in Vancouver, Max Bernays was from a sea-faring family. He spent his early years in the merchant marine before joining the Royal Canadian Naval Volunteer Reserve (RCNVR) in 1929, being mobilized for the Second World War a decade later. With only limited experience in the position on smaller ships, Max Bernays was promoted to Acting Chief Petty Officer in March 1942 and appointed as Coxswain of the River-class destroyer HMCS Assiniboine, a position normally held by a more experienced sailor. Young Max Bernays and his ship would soon be engaged in North Atlantic convoy escort operations under the leadership of Lieutenant-Commander John Stubbs. Fire aboard HMCS Assiniboine On Aug. 6, 1942, just several months after CPO Bernays’ appointment as Coxswain, HMCS Assiniboine engaged in a fierce surface gun battle against the German submarine U-210. Both the bridge and wheelhouse of Assiniboine were engulfed by fire from shells launched by...

Mark Nelson — Every commissioned warship in the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) is honoured with an official ship’s badge based on the ship’s name and designed with heraldic elements. The badge serves as a unifying symbol for the ship’s company. Before the Second World War, there was no official control over the badge a Canadian warship might wear. During the Second World War, with Commanding Officers and crew members coming up with their designs, we saw ships emblazoned with Donald Duck, as in HMCS Snowberry, or an image of St. Clair blasting a U-boat with lightning flashing from her fingertips, as in HMCS St. Clair. HMCS St. Laurent, a ship named ‘Sally Rand’, had a picture of the famous burlesque dancer knocking down dive bombers with her fan. HMCS Wetaskiwin displayed an image of the Queen of Hearts sitting in a puddle of water. These badges boosted morale and offered a uniting symbol for the ship’s crew. However, at the end of hostilities, something more official was warranted. In 1945, Naval Staff decided that ships remaining in service should have official badges designed with the elements of heraldry. The task of producing official badges for the RCN was initially given to Lieutenant-Commander Alan Brookman Beddoe (1893-1975), a Canadian war artist, consultant in heraldry, and former First World War prisoner of war. Incidentally, Beddoe also illustrated the Books of Remembrance on display in the Peace Tower on Parliament Hill in Ottawa. Badge designs are made to connect to the ship’s name, and incorporate heraldic symbology and terminology. For example, colours are described using the heraldic terms gules (red), azure (blue), vert (green), sable (black), purpure (purple), or (gold), and argent (silver or white). In heraldic language, the badge of HMCS Calgary is described as, ‘Or, a bend wavy azure charged with...

[caption id="attachment_31209" align="aligncenter" width="595"] Grace Brodie, Staff Sergeant of the Toronto Branch of Red Cross Transport “C” Company, 1941. Photo: Maritime Museum of British Columbia.[/caption] Peter Mallett, Staff Writer — When Lieutenant (Lt) Grace Brodie joined the Women’s Royal Canadian Naval Service (WRCNS) in July 1942, she faced a unique challenge. “No one had created a women’s uniform,” said Heather Feeney, Collections and Exhibits Manager at Maritime Museum of B.C. “Brodie was handed a stack of material and told to find a tailor of her own.” But Lt Brodie, one of the first female ‘Wrens’, was tenacious and resourceful. Her Second-World-War-era dress uniform, created by a Vancouver-based tailor, is now part of a new exhibit at the Maritime Museum of B.C. Feeney researched Lt Brodie’s uniform after it was donated by Lt Brodie’s estate executor, who also donated her Red Cross uniform to the museum’s collection and provided much of the background information for Feeney’s research. According to Feeney, the civil and military tailor, John Doig of West Pender Street, was less than impressed with the idea of making a uniform for a woman. But Lt Brodie appealed to their shared Scottish heritage, and Doig embarked on the project. Feeney notes Lt Brodie’s uniform is made from men’s uniform suiting, which gave the jacket a superior drape and sheen compared to those made from regulation serge. The first alteration Doig made was to switch the standard Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) dress uniform buttons. The buttons would appear out of proportion since Lt Brodie was only 5’1” (1.55 metres) in height. Doig suggested using mess buttons instead. The rest of the story behind Lt Brodie’s uniform is part of the Douglas St. museum’s Darn It! Our Maritime Make and Mend Culture display. Lt Brodie’s Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) career lasted from 1942 to 1945. All reports from that time indicate she was highly regarded and won the respect of her fellow officers. According to biographical research files at the museum, Lt Brodie...

Peter Mallett, Staff Writer — The A/B Jetty Recapitalization Project is currently the largest construction project in the harbour and is anticipated to be completed in the mid-2020s. Defence Team members revealed the project’s details at the Oct. 27 Public Information Session at the Songhees Wellness Centre. “We heard many positive comments on the progress that has been made in the cleaning up of contaminated sediments,” said Michael Bodman, Manager of Base Safety and Environment. “This included comments about the increased number of observations of sea life in Esquimalt Harbour including whales, herring, and other fish species.” Approximately 70 people, primarily residents close to the Department of National Defence (DND) and Esquimalt Graving Dock facilities, used the session as an opportunity to raise concerns about noise from various sources, learn where the sediment went for disposal and the archaeological materials recovered during dredging projects and showed interest in how local Indigenous communities have been engaged in the project. The DND is undertaking several projects in Esquimalt Harbour associated with CFB Esquimalt. The projects are addressing the historic harbour contamination and are continuing to transform the Dockyard infrastructure to support the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) operations. “In the long term, DND will continue to work with partners in the surrounding communities to monitor condition of Esquimalt Harbour, manage risk and identify projects that will contribute to the ongoing goal of a healthy and sustainable environment,” Bodman said. The A-Jetty open water remediation, B-Jetty demolition, and remediation are completed, with B-Jetty construction underway. The remediation of G-Jetty and Jetty 11 on the Colwood side of Esquimalt Harbour is currently in the procurement phase and is expected to commence by the end of 2022. The current A Jetty and former B Jetty is now over 70 years old, says Bodman. “Along with providing important updates, information sessions such as this one also highlight the Government of Canada’s investment in enabling and supporting the RCN through investing in new infrastructure, protecting the environment and cleaning...

[caption id="attachment_31197" align="aligncenter" width="595"] Students from Cedar High Middle School participate in the annual No Stone Left Alone program Nov. 3 placing painted rocks onto the headstones at St. Luke’s Cemetary in Saanich to commemorate Canadian Soldiers. Photos supplied.[/caption] Peter Mallett, Staff Writer — Ahead of Remembrance Day ceremonies, Grade 6, 7 and 8 students from Rockheights and Cedar Hill Middle School visited the gravesites of veterans to remember the sacrifices and pay their respects while leaving poppy-painted stones on their headstones. They were among thousands of students across the country taking part in the annual Remembrance Day scholastic program, No Stone Left Alone (NSLA). “It makes Remembrance Day more meaningful,” says Christina Pelletier, Vice-Principal at Rockheights Middle School. “The act of painting poppies onto rocks and then placing them on headstones honours the soldiers and creates a greater appreciation for all of those who served.” The annual campaign was launched in 2011 by Edmonton’s Maureen G. Bianchni to recognize the nation’s fallen. Soggy cold weather greeted Cedar Hill Middle School students on Nov. 3 at St. Luke’s Cemetery in Saanich and Rockheights Middle School students on Nov. 4 at God’s Acre Veterans Cemetery in Esquimalt. The NSLA’s goal is to educate and engage youth in honouring every soldier who has fought for Canadian freedoms, says Maryanne Trofimuk, Principal at Cedar Hill Middle School. “Hands were red, glasses were fogging, knees were knocking, but the spirit was strong,” Trofimuk said. Trofimuk was previously the Principal at Rock Heights when her school became the first in the province to organize a No Stone Left Alone ceremony at the request of retired major-gen Cam Ross. This was Rockheights Middle School’s ninth No Stone Left Alone Ceremony. Despite braving rain, wind and cold temperatures, standing out in the cold for a short time was nothing compared to what soldiers at war go through, said Gio, a Grade 8 student from Rockheights Middle School. “I think it’s very important we do this ceremony and remember...

[caption id="attachment_31194" align="aligncenter" width="595"] Dr. Darryl Jordan Gebien[/caption] Peter Mallett, Staff Writer — His journey with addiction began years ago, with painkillers prescribed by his doctor to treat back pain. It didn’t end until he graduated from fentanyl and survived a near-fatal, unintentional overdose. Today, Dr. Darryl Jordan Gebien is a survivor of Canada’s opioid crisis, in long-term recovery, and admits he is lucky to be alive. “I hope through this discussion we can learn from each other,” Dr. Gebien says. Dr. Gebien is the next speaker in the MARPAC Health and Wellness Fall Speakers Bureau series. He plans on taking his audience on a journey of his epic fall and arduous rise from opioid use disorder with a discussion titled A Compassionate Lens of Addiction. The talk coincides with National Addiction Awareness Week. In November 2014, Dr. Gebien, an emergency room physician from Thornhill, Ont., was arrested and eventually incarcerated for abusing his prescription-writing privileges. Despite losing contact with his young family and career, Dr. Gebien pressed on in his recovery, frequently sharing at Narcotics Anonymous and Alcoholics Anonymous 12-step meetings. “Pain, stress, worry, anxiety and depression affect us all, but it is how we choose to deal with them that makes it easier to overcome,” he says. “Both physical and mental pain, as well as poor coping skills contributed to my addiction, and healing only began within the comfort of being with others after I surrendered.” Dr. Gebien says he wants to share his 15 keys to happiness learned during his recovery. “I am thrilled to share my story and interact with members of the Defence team from across the country,” Dr. Gebien said. Dr. Gebien will share his experience on Nov. 22 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. on MS Teams.

[caption id="attachment_31185" align="aligncenter" width="595"] Prime Minister Churchill goes aboard Canadian destroyer – The historic occasion which marked the ocean meeting of the Right Honourable Winston Churchill and President Franklin D. Roosevelt was doubly significant for the officers and men of a Canadian destroyer who were hosts to the Prime Minister. Mr. Churchill is seen here boarding the vessel; on the extreme left of the photo, saluting in the foreground, is Lieutenant John H. Stubbs, RCN, of Kaslo, B.C., Commanding Officer of HMCS Assiniboine.[/caption] Clare Sharpe, CFB Esquimalt Naval & Military Museum — The latest feature photo from the museum archives tells a tale of two heroes, twoleaders, two men who shaped history. Each played a key part in the Battle of the Atlantic, the epic seaborne struggle to defeat Nazism. Each was an inspiration to those who served with them, and to those they served. The Right Honourable Winston Spencer Churchill and Lieutenant John Hamilton Stubbs of the Royal Canadian Navy met in the run-up to a decisive summit conference. Stubbs and the ship he commanded, HMCS Assiniboine, were detailed to escort Churchill, then-prime minister of Great Britain, to a secret meeting. Assiniboine sailed with the Royal Navy vessel HMS Prince of Wales, which carried Churchill aboard, to Placentia Bay, Nfld. Stubbs and his men reportedly received little notice they would accompany Churchill to his now-famous first encounter with Franklin Delano Roosevelt, U.S. president. Their rendezvous took place at sea in early August 1941, just offshore from the little community of Ship Harbour, Nfld. The British and American leaders joined together for secret talks – the U.S. was not yet in the Second World War, and negotiations were delicate. Their historic meeting resulted in a strategic set of agreements that gave birth to the Atlantic Charter and laid the groundwork for destruction of the Axis powers. Shortly before their escort detail, Stubbs and Assiniboine had successfully sunk the submarine U-210, ramming the submarine twice and finishing it off with depth charges....

[caption id="attachment_31188" align="aligncenter" width="595"] The Victoria Royals will be wearing this Jersey at the game Nov. 19. Photo by Kevin Light Photography Instagram: @kevrlight.[/caption] Peter Mallett, Staff Writer CFB Esquimalt’s rich hockey history will be front and centre on ice on Nov. 19. The Victoria Royals will wear a specially-designed historic replica jersey of the 1942/43 Navy team while facing off against the Prince George Cougars. The Western Hockey League team revealed the jersey Nov. 15. “It’s a forgotten story of what could be argued as the greatest single season of hockey played on Vancouver Island,” said Matt Carlson, Base Public Affairs Projects Officer. “The players were all members of the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) and called to serve in the war effort and stationed at CFB Esquimalt.” Victoria Royals players will wear the jersey for a Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) Appreciation event at the Save on Foods Memorial Centre. The white jersey with blue stripes features a bull dog wearing a sailor’s cap with the words ‘HMCS’ inscribed. Derived from a black and white photo from the CFB Esquimalt Naval and Military Museum archives, the jersey commemorates the 80th anniversary of the Base’s star-studded team that competed in the Island Senior League (ISL). The team was comprised of both National Hockey League (NHL) and minor league players from across Canada. Dubbed by the Victoria Daily Times as the ‘bluejackets’, the team featured Chucky Rayner, Hockey Hall of Fame and Canada Sports Hall of Fame goaltender, whose NHL career was interrupted by the Second World War. Rayner served three years in the RCN before resuming his career in New York with the Rangers. He went on to win the NHL’s Hart Trophy for Most Valuable Player in 1950. Also in the ‘bluejackets’ lineup was Bob ‘Golden Boy’ Goldham, five-time Stanley Cup winner and defenceman. After serving in the military from 1942 to 1945, Goldham played 11 NHL seasons with Toronto, Detroit and Chicago. Bernie Strongman, another hokey player from Victoria, also...

CFB Esquimalt, Naval & Military Museum — Janet Curley, CFB Esquimalt Naval and Military Museum volunteer, has given a long-running commitment and contribution to the museum over the past decade, fuelled by the same energy and staying power that characterize her career as a recreational runner for community charities. Janet’s late husband, Lou, was in the Canadian Forces Air Command, motivating her to become a major booster of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF). She has also maintained her CAF connection by running the CFB Esquimalt 5K and the Royal Canadian Air Force Half Marathon in Winnipeg, Man. She said she enjoys volunteering at the museum partly because it brings back happy memories of when her husband was in the CAF. Even though she has decided to ease back on her volunteerism in the museum visitor centre, Janet is always willing to lend a hand for museum and Base special events. While assisting the museum with its displays and outreach for the Defence on the Dock event at Ship’s Point on Sept. 17, Janet Curley was recognized for her enthusiastic support for the museum and the CAF. Captain (Navy) J. Jeffrey Hutchison presented her with his Commander’s Coin and a citation thanking her for her ‘exceptional service to Canada through the promotion and education of Canadian naval and military history’. For Janet, receiving the Base Commander’s recognition was a ‘very moving experience’. A member of the CEEVACS Roadrunners group in the Cowichan Valley, Janet began working with the museum’s volunteer group after being encouraged to join by another volunteer. Her ability to engage with visitors, her warmth and friendliness have been great assets to the museum. She always went the extra distance in answering their enquiries. In the same way, she goes the extra mile when running marathons and half marathons for...

[caption id="attachment_31170" align="aligncenter" width="595"] Gilles Boudreault as an infantryman (left) and today. Photos supplied.[/caption] Peter Mallett, Staff Writer — Soldiers and veterans come to life through impressionist portraits in a home studio of one Bedford, N.S. artist. Retired warrant officer Gilles Boudreault says art lets him reflect with remembrance on friends and colleagues that has passed on from his former units. “I don’t usually think of one particular unit or person on Remembrance Day but this year, more than ever, I will be thinking of all the people I served with who are no longer here,” he said. “It makes me wish I took the time to reconnect and visit with them after our service was complete.” Boudreault retired from the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) in 1999 after 21 years of service. He joined the CAF in September 1978 and was posted to Third Battalion of Royal 22nd Regiment (3R22R) and then Canadian Airborne Regiment in Petawawa, which included a deployment to Cyprus in 1982. In 1988, he trained to change trades from Infantryman to Topographical Surveyor and moved on to the Department of National Defence Mapping and Charting Establishment (MCE) in Ottawa, where he worked until his retirement in 1999. Today, the married father of two paints every chance he gets. Boudreault says it’s not hard to get inspired by his subject matter. The smiling portrait of the late Major-General Herbert Pitts of the Canadian Army is one of many photographs that inspired him to pick up the brush. Boudreault says the warmth of Pitts’ smile made the portrait a delight to paint. “The fact that the subject was wearing a maroon beret – which are the airborne colours of my former regiment – made the creative process easier and gave it a familiar feel to me,” he said. Pitts, a Korean War veteran, was a former Colonel of the Regiment of Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry (PPCLI) and the Canadian Airborne Regiment. Pitts spent the later years of his...

[caption id="attachment_31167" align="aligncenter" width="595"] Jim Connor brings a poppy in remembrance of his Aunt Cecilia Connor who has a permanent display at the CFB Esquimalt Naval and Military Museum. Photo provided.[/caption] CFB Esquimalt Naval & Military Museum — For Jim Connor of Esquimalt, B.C., honouring the memory of his late aunt Evelyn of the Canadian Women’s Army Corps (CWAC) is a family obligation and a vital duty. Private Evelyn Connor (service #W/11688) of Esquimalt, B.C., is one of 25 CWACs who died while on active duty during the Second World War. In 2014, CFB Esquimalt Naval and Military Museum created a permanent display to commemorate and recognize her service and sacrifice. Since 2014, Jim has made a special annual visit to the museum during Remembrance Week to add a poppy to the display that features his aunt. It is his way of keeping her memory alive. “I think Evelyn has a home here,” says Jim, 87. “I feel close to her and happy to know she isn’t forgotten.” Evelyn Cecilia Connor was one of seven children and lived with her parents, James and Elizabeth Connor, on Ellery Street in Esquimalt. She enlisted with the CWACs in Victoria, B.C., on June 15, 1942. In July 1942, she was sent to Vermilion, Alta, for training. Evelyn returned to Victoria on Oct. 26, 1942, and was sent across the country to Ste. Anne de Bellevue near Montreal. She returned to Victoria again on Dec. 1, 1942, to 28 Company (Coy), and on March 12, 1943, was sent to Vancouver to No. 13 Coy and then to No. 111 Coy. She went back to Macdonald College at Ste. Anne de Bellevue in 1943. Private Connor was sent overseas in July 1943 and posted to No. 1 Static Base Laundry. She was 24 when she was struck and killed by a bus at 2220 hours on Sept. 24, 1944, in Farnham, England, during a blackout. She had been overseas for just over a year. Private...

[caption id="attachment_31162" align="aligncenter" width="595"] (L-R): Victor Flett, Ronald Foyle and John Molnar at the National Cemetary of Korea at National Cemetary of Korea.[/caption] Peter Mallett, Staff Writer — Victor Flett did not think he would be returning to Korea almost 70 years later – this time for an award from the Korean government. “This revisit was very meaningful to me,” said Flett, 94. “I have so many friends that are veterans of the [Korean] War who could not be there, and so many of my family members were in the military.”  The Republic of South Korea honoured Flett and two other Korean War veterans from B.C. for their service during and following the Korean War. South Korean President Yoon Seok-youl personally presented the Korean War Service Medal to John Molnar of Abbottsford, B.C. Ronald Foyle of Vancouver and Flett received their medals previously. “The freedom, peace and prosperity that the Republic of [South] Korea enjoys today were built on the foundations of the blood, sweat and sacrifice, and dedication of our veterans and veterans under the U.N. flag,” said Yoon during the luncheon. The three men were among 200 Korean War veterans from nine nations selected by the Ministry of Patriots and Veterans Affairs to participate in the Veterans Revisit Program. Molnar and Foyle served aboard HMCS Cayuga. Flett served aboard HMCS Crusader as a Sonarman when it was dispatched from Esquimalt in July 1953. Since the Crusader arrived in Korea days after the July 27 armistice, Flett took part in UN Peacekeeping operations instead. Born in St. Peters, Man., in September 1928, Flett is the last of three generations from Manitoba’s Peguis First Nation to serve in Canada’s military. His Grandfather, Private David William Stranger, an infantryman in the Canadian Army, was killed in the First World War in the Battle of Vimy Ridge. Flett said the visit was his fourth trip to South Korea since the war ended, and his love and admiration for the nation and its people...

Lieutenant (Navy) Riley Perrior My family has served in the military for 13 generations, starting in the UK and moving into Canada, and so the poppy is not just a way for me to remember them, but also to carry on the lineage of service.   Sub-Lieutenant Xiang Zhou ... to remember all the history of the Armed Forces and to show respect for the fallen.   Private Alex Measures ... to remember all the sacrifices of the people who have come before me.   Sailor Second Class Justyn Ramharrack ... to remember those who gave their life for this country.   Sailor First Class Ryan Smith ... for all the soldiers, sailors and aviators who served before me.   Chief Petty Officer Second Class Raymond Ferguson ... to remember our fallen soldiers, those who went before us.   Sailor First Class Sebastien Swann ... for remembering all the troops that have fallen in war.   Sailor First Class Anne Marie Russell ... to honour and remember all the people before me that made the ultimate sacrifice and served our country.   Corporal Adam Weddel ... to remember the Airmen and Airwomen who came before me.   Captain Joe Anderson ... to remember all those who came before me and laid their lives on the line for our freedom.   Petty Officer Second Class  Luc Pelletier ... because my grandfather fought in the Second World War and whenever I wear it reminds me of the sacrifices that he made for everything that I have today.

[caption id="attachment_31144" align="aligncenter" width="595"] Capt(N) J. Jeffrey Hutchinson[/caption] — Every year on November 11, Canadians gather to honour the sacrifice of those who have served our country. Whether during the First World War, the Second World War, the Korean War, the Balkans, Afghanistan, or countless other mission at home and abroad – our Veterans have fought for the safety and peace we value today. This year marks the 80th anniversary of the establishment of the Women’s Royal Canadian Naval Service (WRCNS). More than 6,700 Canadian women enlisted in the WRCNS during the Second World War, and were commonly referred to as Wrens. They filled dozens of essential roles, including analyzing data that helped protect ships from devastating German mines. That work saved countless lives. The Wrens not only helped to secure Allied victory but also aided the movement for gender equality, and opened doors for future generations of women in the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF). Many of their stories are on display at CFB Esquimalt’s Naval and Military Museum, and I encourage members and their families to take time to visit and learn more about our military’s history during this time of remembrance. As time goes by and personal connections to past conflicts become fewer, it is increasingly important to ensure the sacrifices of those who have fought bravely for our country are never forgotten. I want to express my appreciation to all those members who are participating in the National Veterans’ Week Speakers Program, helping to highlight the importance of Remembrance Day and Canada’s military at schools and workplaces in our communities. As military members, we know the job of protecting peace and freedom is never done. There are always new challenges to face and new missions to support, both at home and abroad. As I stand at the...

[caption id="attachment_31138" align="aligncenter" width="595"] Stoker William Fisher with an unidentified member of the Women’s Royal Canadian Naval Service. Photo courtesy of Canada.ca.[/caption] CFB Esquimalt Naval and Military Museum — For Stoker William Allen Fisher of the Royal Canadian Navy Volunteer Reserve (RCNVR), becoming the sole survivor of not just one but two vessels sunk by enemy submarines in the Battle of the Atlantic was a lonely and harrowing experience. On Sept. 20, 1943, Fisher’s ship, the Town Class destroyer HMCS St. Croix, was escorting convoy ON.202 south of Iceland when the German U boat U 305 hit and sunk it. Sixty-five members of the ship’s company died due to the submarine’s acoustic torpedo attack. Eventually, the Royal Navy ship HMS Itchen rescued five officers and 76 men from St. Croix, including William Fisher. As fate would have it, a mere two days later, the Itchen was torpedoed by submarine U 666 south of Greenland. All officers and those from St. Croix aboard Itchen perished, with one remarkable exception: William Fisher. Fisher would be considered extraordinarily fortunate to have lived through these terrible incidents by most people’s standards. He had been in the RCNVR for just a year and 11 months when the St. Croix was lost. “It was hard to take, the boys had all been old hands and old friends,” he recollected in his eyewitness account of both sinkings, The End of HMCS St. Croix, which appeared in the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) Month Review in August 1944. In his account of the events, Fisher wrote of being adrift for 13 hours in a crowded whaler with four Carley floats tied to it, all loaded with men and bailing frantically as the whaler took on water. In his subsequent rescue from HMS Itchen, he had only a piece of debris to cling to in the freezing water after diving over the side following the torpedoing of the ship. “The water was rough,” he said in the memoir. “I saw...

[caption id="attachment_31132" align="aligncenter" width="595"] A Sharp-tailed snake, an endangered species. Their small size and secretive nature makes them difficult for biologists to study.[/caption] Peter Mallett, Staff Writer — A new wildlife conservation effort at CFB Esquimalt is underway: a multi-year research project to monitor the population and movements of Sharp-tailed snakes. The species is listed as endangered under the federal Species at Risk Act (SARA). “We hope the results will support more accurate mapping of critical habitat and improve habitat protection,” said Cain van Cadsand, Environmental Officer with Base Safety and Environment (BSE). The research takes place at select locations, including the DND Heals Rifle Range property, with specialized detection equipment. It is a collaborative effort between Department of National Defence (DND), Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC), B.C. Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy, Natural Resources Canada, and Biolinx Environmental Research Ltd. Sharp-tailed snakes (Contia tenuis) are small, harmless reptiles that live mostly underground or under cover objects such as rocks and logs, and almost never come out in the open. They are elusive which makes them hard to detect and monitor. Following the discovery of Sharp-tailed snakes at Heals Rifle Range in 2003, Base Safety and Environment contracted species experts to survey various CFB Esquimalt properties. They found the species at the Mary Hill property as well. During that time, biologists used artificial cover objects such as asphalt roofing shingles to survey and monitor the species. These provided warm sheltered sites and allowed easier species detection. The current research will use an automated monitoring system to record data 24 hours per day to provide more detailed information on movements and habitat use, complementing previous methods. “It is critical for us to know where these snakes are and what type of habitat they need for survival, to comply with...

[caption id="attachment_31125" align="aligncenter" width="593"] The church pennant consists of two national flags: the English Flag at the hoist and the Dutch National Flag in the fly and is flown when prayers are held in an HMC ship.[/caption] — When prayers are held in an HMC ship, the church pennant is flown. This flag, also used in all Commonwealth navies and the Royal Netherlands Navy, is a broad pennant consisting of two national flags: the English Flag at the hoist and the Dutch National Flag in the fly. The design originates from the Anglo-Dutch wars of the late 17th century, when the pennant was used to indicate a ceasefire was necessary because a religious service was in progress. ‘O Eternal Lord God, who alone rulest the raging of the sea’ is the first line of The Naval Prayer, a standard during the prayers portion of morning divisions. First published in 1662 in the Book of Common Prayer, The Naval Prayer has remained mostly unchanged since then. The Sailor’s Psalm (Psalm 107, verses 23-30) begins with ‘They that go down to the sea in ships, and occupy their business in great waters’ is commonly recited at Remembrance Day and Battle of the Atlantic services. It describes distressed sailors praying to the Lord and being delivered to safety. Another standard at naval services is the Naval Hymn ‘Eternal Father, strong to save’. Written in 1860 by the clergyman William Whiting after surviving a storm on the Mediterranean Sea, it is generally thought to have been inspired by the Sailor’s Psalm. What do sailors pray for? Most likely for their family, friends, loved ones, shipmates, and especially those who have crossed the bar, a term which means to have passed away, i.e., leave life’s harbour, directly derived from the 1889 poem Crossing the Bar...

[caption id="attachment_31121" align="aligncenter" width="595"] 1942 Brodie Helmet Shell with veteran’s signatures.[/caption] ASLt Willis McCullough-Messom, HMCS Ottawa — A 1942 Brodie Helmet Shell holds the stories of 15 veterans across Canada. Affectionately named ‘The Helmet’, Acting-Sub Lieutenant Willis McCullough-Messom of HMCS Ottawa began the project by repainting the helmet he acquired and set out across the country to have veterans sign it while listening to their stories. ‘The Helmet’ is a project designed to capture the stories of the greatest generation. As the average age of a Second World War veteran quickly approaches 100 years old, the time to capture their stories is now. I was keenly interested in Canadian military history from a young age. After joining the Canadian Armed Forces in 2018, I was allowed to attend a Battle of Britain Commemorative event at Camp Hill veteran’s hospital in Halifax, N.S. This was my first interaction with Second World War veterans, and I was immediately intrigued. Immediately upon being posted to CFB Esquimalt, I sought out opportunities to volunteer at a veteran’s hospital. I came across Broadmead Care Home, home to over one hundred veterans, many of whom served during the Second World War. I wanted to find a way to capture my interactions with these veterans, so in March 2022, I acquired a 1942 Brodie Helmet Shell, the perfect object upon which I could commemorate both their service and our interactions. The first veteran on The Helmet was the product of a chance interaction. I was enjoying a Sunday brunch when I overheard Bob Haden discussing his wartime service with some of the other patrons. I politely approached Bob and asked him if he was a veteran, to which he quickly replied, ‘Yes, Navy, joined in 1943’. We had a quick conversation, and I scheduled an interview for the next weekend. On the first day, I captured two hours of wartime experiences from his time aboard Fairmile Q087, HMCS U-889, and HMCS MicMac. I was in awe and knew I...

Serving in all three branches of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) gave retired navy lieutenant Ron Haskell a unique perspective on military service.

Gabrielle Brunette, Communications Coordinator Student at FMF CS — On Oct. 3, the Fleet Maintenance Facility Cape Breton (FMF CB) workforce and ship staff (SS) worked together on the undocking evolution of His Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Calgary from the FMF CB dry dock after a recent work period. The ship was docked in the FMF CB dry dock for 10 weeks. “Having a dry dock in our facility that we can use at any time, and the staff to be able to complete that job, is a strategic asset in its own for the RCN (Royal Canadian Navy),” said Captain (Navy) Sebastien Richard, FMF CB Commanding Officer. HMCS Calgary docked this past August as part of its Extended Work Period 1 (EWP1). During this time, FMF CB worked to remove all required systems to prepare the ship for its deep maintenance cycle every five years. The personnel removed the rudder, the rotary vane actuator (a significant component of the steering systems), combat systems and deck equipment while ensuring the preservation of marine systems equipment. The staff also conducted hull maintenance and repairs. Five FMF CB shops were involved in the docking and undocking of HMCS Calgary: Personnel from the Scalers/Cleaners Shop; Shipwright Shop; Rigging Loft; Mechanical Fitters Shop; Electrical Shop. The teams in the Naval Architecture, Industrial Engineering, and RpOPS departments were also integral to the success of these evolutions. This is not the first time the FMF CB workforce has worked closely with ship staff to succeed in docking and undocking evolutions, and it will not be the last. The FMF CB team routinely displays work of excellence in concert with ship staff, demonstrating the broad abilities of all involved in support of RCN operations. Christian Parisé, Project Leader and Ship Service Officer for HMCS Calgary, said collaboration between...

[caption id="attachment_31106" align="aligncenter" width="595"] Canadian sailors train in Esquimalt, B.C., using the new sea-to-shore connector, a modular, self-propelled barge designed to support the future Joint Support Ships. Photo: Sailor First Class Kendric Grasby.[/caption] Royal Canadian Navy Public Affairs — A ground-breaking capability for the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) is one step closer to reality. A new phase of training for four modular, self-propelled barges designed to support the future Joint Support Ships (JSS) was recently completed. Called sea-to-shore connectors, these barges can quickly move large quantities of mission-essential equipment, stores and personnel to and from shore, and can be stored or transported like standard shipping containers. Sea-to-shore connectors have multiple uses and configurations, and are engineered to be assembled from the JSS. In October, 18 sailors, including Boatswains and Marine Technicians, concluded five weeks of collaborative training in Esquimalt, B.C., with instructors from the Defence College of Logistics, Policing and Administration in the United Kingdom (UK). The Royal Navy has had a similar capability for over 60 years. The U.K. team could provide expert knowledge and advice about the new equipment – from myriad operational uses to technical repairs. “We originally wanted help in using the sea-to-shore connector tactically, but we have tapped into the U.K.’s knowledge and opened a full Pandora’s Box in what can be done with them,” says Lieutenant-Commander (LCdr) Rowan Wilson, Executive Officer and Staff Officer, New Capability and Training at Naval Personnel and Training Group (NPTG) Headquarters. “We are just scratching the surface of this cool new capability and, hopefully, it will get more people excited about what the Navy does.” The first of the four barges, built by Navamar of Montréal, has already been delivered to Esquimalt. Three more barges are expected over the next 12 months – two more on the West Coast and one on the East Coast. LCdr Wilson is particularly enthused about the potential for a new, non-combat amphibious capability as the new barges can be driven right up to...

Peter Mallett, Staff Writer — Last month, the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) honoured the unsung Latin American heroes of the First and Second World Wars, giving them long-overdue historical identity and recognition. “They all joined voluntarily, demonstrated compassion, braveness, courage and loyalty while fighting alongside other Canadian soldiers,” said Captain (Capt) Rey Garcia-Salas, [...]

[caption id="attachment_31094" align="aligncenter" width="596"] Sergeant Ryan Pedan, Canadian Rangers.[/caption] Natasha Tersigni, 4th CRPG PAO — While many Canadians wear the poppy in November to remember those lost at war, the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) honours fallen members over several months each year through the National Sentry Program. The program reinforces Canada’s commitment to remembrance. CAF members stand guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Ottawa every day from June 5 until Nov. 10. On Remembrance Day, the Tomb is a central gathering place for ceremonies in the National Capital Region. An appointed CAF member leads the Sentry Command for the day. This year, that honour goes to Sergeant (Sgt) Ryan Peden, a Canadian Ranger (CR) from Swan River, Man. His nomination to serve as Sentry Command is unique, as it marks the first time a CR has taken on the role. It is also a nod to the 75th anniversary of the CR, which the CAF has been celebrating throughout 2022. Sgt Peden has been a member of the CR since 2019, helping the local Canadian Ranger Patrol Group prepare for rapid response to various emergencies and scenarios. What does being asked to stand guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier mean to you? It is very humbling. Standing in the presence of the Unknown Soldier is an experience I will never forget. The memorial reminds us that many things we take for granted are not without cost, which many Canadians fully and permanently paid. Bringing awareness of that sacrifice is the least anyone can do compared to the sacrifice of our fallen members. What are your feelings on being asked to lead the Sentry Command? I am still in awe and am very proud and thankful for the trust from my chain of command to handle such an important moment. What exactly will your tasks be on November 11? I will post the four guards who stand sentinel over the tomb. The time I spent standing guard...

[caption id="attachment_31089" align="aligncenter" width="595"] Day sail on HMCS Ottawa. Photo: Courtesy of Lt(N) Adrian Thow.[/caption] Kelley Stark, Maritime Forces Pacific Public Affairs — On Oct. 27, health services professionals from CFB Esquimalt were invited to sail the high seas for a day to experience a small portion of a sailors’ life aboard. Having exposure to how sailors work, live and fight at sea gives our medical team a better understanding on what each sailor needs to stay healthy and remain functional aboard a ship. “Sometimes, when medical professionals prescribe limitations for our members, they may not fully grasp what work they can or cannot do,” says Lieutenant (Navy) Adrian Thow, Pacific Fleet Chief’s Flag Lieutenant. He explains that having the health services professionals experience life onboard means they can prescribe more meaningful limitations. “To prevent losing track of our sailors, we aim to gainfully employ our members as much as we can,” says Lt (N) Thow. When the medical staff understands the positions and the movement of the ships, they can work together with the sailor and unit to find a way for them to contribute and continue working.  

[caption id="attachment_31084" align="aligncenter" width="596"] CFB Esquimalt Base Commander Capt(N) J. Jeffrey Hutchinson salutes during a memorial service for members of HMCS Kootenay at Memorial Park in Esquimalt on the 53rd anniversary of the tragedy. Nine members of the RCN’s former Restigouche-class destroyer were killed and several others injured following an explosion in the ship’s engine room on the morning of Oct. 23, 1969. Photos by S1 Kendric C.W. Grasby.[/caption] Peter Mallett, Staff Writer — Victoria’s military community held a first-of-its-kind memorial service to pay respect to the victims of the worst peacetime accident in Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) history. “We remember the brave sailors who fought to save their fellow crew members on their ship, we remember those who suffered both physical and mental injuries, we remember the families who were forever changed that day,” said Captain (Navy) J. Jeffrey Hutchinson, CFB Esquimalt Base Commander, who presided over the ceremony. “In their memory, we commit to doing all that we can do to help ensure this tragedy is never repeated.” The memorial service on the West Coast was held at the Esquimalt Cenotaph to remember the 53rd anniversary of the HMCS Kootenay tragedy. Nine sailors died, and several others were injured when a violent engine room explosion occurred aboard the East Coast-based Restigouche-class destroyer at 8:21 a.m. on Oct. 23, 1969. The explosion occurred while Kootenay was conducting sea trials 200 nautical miles off the coast of Plymouth, England, caused by bearing shells in the starboard gearbox being installed backwards. This disrupted the flow of lubricating oil, causing an overheating of the bearing and eventually igniting the lubrication oil. The resulting fireball raced through the ship’s engine room, up its hatches, and onto the main passageway of the ship. Retired commander Al Kennedy was one of several survivors who attended the memorial service in Esquimalt. He was one of three sailors that made it out of the engine room that morning. Kennedy says he can still remember every moment of his...

Captain Braden Greaves, 37, served 12 years in the Canadian Army as an Infantry Officer with the Royal 22nd Regiment. He retired from the military in March 2017 and worked as a lawyer for Victoria law firm Stevenson Luchies & Legh before returning to the Canadian Armed Forces. Currently, he is a Legal Officer at Esquimalt’s Assistant Judge Advocate General (AJAG). Peter Mallett, Staff Writer — A familiar face has been elected as the new Chair of the Esquimalt Military Family Resource Centre (MFRC) Board of Directors. Captain (Capt) Braden Greaves was elected to the position following a vote at the MFRC’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Sept. 28. He has been an MFRC Board of Directors member for the past four years. “I get to work with a passionate group of people who all share my commitment to supporting military families,” he said. “I am also grateful for the support and confidence of other members and am excited to work with them to ensure the MFRC provides the best possible support to our members.” The MFRC is an independent, non-profit charitable organization at Canadian Armed Forces bases and wings across the country, addressing the needs of Canada’s military families. The MFRC Board of Directors is a governance body of up to 12 members, supporting the MFRC by establishing policy and setting long-term goals. The Board is guided by the Societies Act of British Columbia and is responsible to the military family community. The Base, Fleet, and Formation Chiefs guide the Board as ex-officio members while the Board provides strategic direction to the MFRC. During the AGM, the Board bid farewell to two long-term members: Samantha Krzywonos, who served the board as a member and Chair for the last ten years, and Kathy Cook, who served as Treasurer for the last...

[caption id="attachment_31058" align="aligncenter" width="595"] Chief Petty Officer First Class Sue Frisby, HMCS Winnipeg Coxswain, near the coast of Hawaii. Photo: Sailor First Class Melissa Gonzalez.[/caption] Capt Christine MacNeil, HMCS Winnipeg PAO — Chief Petty Officer First Class Sue Frisby neé Churchill Where did you get your CAF career started? I was raised in Corner Brook, Nfld. I was a member of the 511 Humber Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron for seven years. The cadets offered me many opportunities, such as training camps in the summers, including General Training, Basic Survival, and Survival Instructor. After graduating from Herdman Collegiate in 1997, I thought travelling the world and being paid would be awesome, so I decided to join the Canadian Armed Forces. What is your military background? I was supposed to start Basic Military Qualification Training (BMQT), known as Boot Camp or Basic Training, in St. Jean, Que., in January 1998. However, due to the ice storm in Quebec that year, it was delayed until April. After completing BMQT, I was sent to Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Esquimalt, B.C., for the Naval Acoustics Operator (now Sonar Operator) course. As I advanced through the trade, more classes, as well as promotions, followed. In May of 2021, I was promoted to Chief Petty Officer First Class, the highest rank for a non-commissioned member (NCM) in the CAF. I was posted to Maritime Forces Pacific as the Headquarters Chief. In February of 2022, I was posted to HMCS Winnipeg as the Coxswain, the pinnacle of the Royal Canadian Navy NCM’s career. How would you describe your job? I am responsible for morale, welfare, and our crew’s good order and discipline. People are my job and the best part of it. Through my leadership and mentorship, future generations should feel empowered to be their best and do their best to make this organization thrive. My favourite part of the job is the people and our potential as an organization. Which ships have you served in? Over the...

[caption id="attachment_31053" align="aligncenter" width="594"] HMCS HARRY DEWOLF sits alongside NJ Jetty, Halifax, Nova Scotia during Royal Canadian Navy Sea Trials on October 16, 2020.[/caption] The terms port and starboard are associated with a ship’s left and right sides when facing forward. While these two words are widely accepted as a part of modern nautical vernacular, their origin is lesser known. Newcomers often wonder why the two sides of a ship have such dissimilar names, not realizing this was done by design. Historically, starboard is derived from the term ‘steerboard,’ which refers to a steering oar commonly housed on a vessel’s right side. Before rudders, a ship was steered using a long oar, or sweep oar, fitted on the right side of the ship near the stern. Vikings were known to use a steering oar, and it needs to be clarified why they chose the right side. There is a thought that because the vast majority of people are right-handed, the steering oar was designed for use by right-handed mariners. Regardless, a steering oar on the right became universal. Over time, steerboard became starboard, and it did so without any connection to celestial objects. With a steering oar on the right side of the vessel, it was awkward to put a ship alongside a jetty on the right side, so the ship’s left side was used for this purpose. Typically, a plank was put across from ship to shore where personnel and goods could be transferred, and this plank was called a ladeboard or loadboard and later transformed into a larboard. To avoid confusion between the terms larboard and starboard, larboard was eventually changed to port, which had been a common term since the 16th century. In 1844, the Royal Navy made it official by ordering that ‘port’ be used instead...

[caption id="attachment_31039" align="aligncenter" width="595"] Members of the Operation Render Safe team pose for a photo aboard Her Majesty’s New Zealand Ship Manawunui. This year’s reconnaissance mission was led by the Australian Defence Force and also included members of the Royal Canadian Navy, Royal New Zealand Navy and the United States Marine Corps.[/caption] Peter Mallett, Staff Writer — A Clearance Diving Officer from Fleet Diving Unit (Pacific) (FDU(P)) cleared Second World War relics in the South Pacific waters. Lieutenant (Navy) Michael Allport, FDU(P)’s Operational Dive Team Leader, assisted the Australian Defence Force (ADF) in an international effort to locate the Second World War ordnance off the coast of Tuvalu Sept. 7-14. “Working around explosives always poses risk but these bombs were unfused, so we were basically looking for large masses of steel and explosives on the sea bed,” Lt(N) Allport said. Lt(N) Allport was part of an international contingent that combed the sea floor for explosives as part of a reconnaissance mission titled Operation Render Safe. Render Safe is an ongoing effort led by the ADF to clear explosive remnants of war from Pacific Island communities. During the Second World War, the South Pacific saw heavy fighting and various Pacific Islands were used as a support and ammunitions base. As a result, unexploded munitions remain there today. The Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) normally participate in Render Safe every two years. This year’s mission also included members of the Royal New Zealand Navy (RNZN) and the United States Marine Corps (USMC) working aboard HMNZS Manawanui. “Our mission was a great success,” Lt(N) Allport said. “It’s very rewarding to work alongside allied nations, working to restore safety to the South Pacific.” The operation saw the contingent scan more than 2.5 kilometres of the sea floor in over 47 hours of dive time. They identified 22 AN-M43 500 lbs aerial bombs and four .50 calibre small arms dumps at depths of 10-18 metres. Lt(N) Allport was embedded with a team of New Zealand divers for...

[caption id="attachment_31074" align="aligncenter" width="595"] The ship’s company with Mayor Sohi and Mrs. Esther Starkman, HMCS Edmonton’s sponsor. Nine members of the ship’s company took part in the visit, including Lieutenant-Commander Tyler Smith, Commanding Officer, and Lieutenant Christian Walsh, Edmonton’s new Executive Officer. The ship’s crew consisted of a diverse contingent, including Cooks, Engineers, Communicators, and Combat Information Operators – all with varying years of service and experience in the Royal Canadian Navy.[/caption] Kateryna Bandura,Lookout Editor — HMCS Edmonton’s crew left Esquimalt waters mid-September to visit their namesake city. Nine members of the ship’s company travelled to the prairies Sept. 26 to mark the 25th anniversary of Edmonton’s commissioning. “As we’ve yet to find a way to navigate the ship across the Rocky Mountains, visits like this are the next best way to learn more about the city, and have its residents meet their sailors,” said Sub-Lieutenant (SLt) Gordon Emerslund, Deputy Operations Officer with HMCS Edmonton. HMCS Edmonton is the first and only ship in the Royal Canadian Navy to carry that name. SLt Emerslund said the five-day trip was an excellent opportunity to strengthen an incredibly strong connection with the City of Edmonton and its people. The crew was busy with a flurry of engagements, including tours of the City Hall and the Alberta Legislature, and visits to local public schools and cadet units. “Edmonton has such a vibrant community, and the city staff were invaluable in helping us coordinate our plans,” SLt Emerslund said. One major highlight of the week’s trip was a visit to Norwood School, where members volunteered to prepare and serve food to students through a meal program run by the charity E4C. The crew used the occasion to present E4C with a cheque for $1,000 from the ship’s charity fund. Another highlight was meeting the ship’s sponsor, Mrs. Esther Starkman, who served in the role since 1996.  The crew had two residents of Edmonton city: Sailor Third Class Class Joseph Wright and Aviator Anna Brittain. They...