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[caption id="attachment_25093" align="aligncenter" width="595"] S2 Chad DeMan, a Boatswain, cleans the bridge windows during Operation Neon as the ship patrols in the East China Sea. Photo by S1 Valerie LeClair, MARPAC Imaging Services[/caption]Captain Chelsea DubeauMARPAC Public Affairs––One ship. Two operations. Three multinational exercises. Plus, an incredibly busy Intermediate Multi-ship Readiness Training Program on the way to and during Exercise Rim of the Pacific.A deployment experience unlike any other, it was also one that tested HMCS Winnipeg’s crew’s resilience and proved what is possible when positive people-first leadership meets innovation. More than that, it was a learning experience in every possible way: from planning to deploy and then deploying in a COVID environment, incorporating the latest-and-greatest Wi-Fi technology, keeping the crew engaged and morale high during a deployment deprived of port visits, and managing supply chain challenges brought on by the global pandemic. There was much uncharted water to navigate. Even if it is a region in which Canada has operated for decades, Winnipeg’s time in the Asia-Pacific – one of the most newsworthy regions in the world today – continued to provide learning opportunities, sometimes in the most unexpected of ways. The waters of the region are alive, electric, very busy, and anything but benign. Operations Projection and NeonWinnipeg deployed Aug.1, 2020, and commenced Operation Projection in September to conduct forward naval presence operations in the Asia-Pacific region. While deployed in the region, Winnipeg also operated under Operation Neon, Canada’s contribution to a coordinated, multinational effort to support the implementation of United Nations Security Council Resolution sanctions (UNSCRs) imposed against North Korea. The sanctions aim to pressure North Korea to abandon its weapons of mass destruction programs and respond to North Korean nuclear weapon tests and ballistic missile launches. Primarily a surveillance mission, units operating under the auspices of Operation...

Peter MallettStaff Writer––A new take on yoga instruction, with physically distanced classes, geared to the defence community of all shapes, sizes, abilities, and genders is set to launch at the Colwood Pacific Activity Centre next month. Former naval reservist Sonia Gray, 44, is the mastermind behind what she describes as non-traditional yoga designed for non-conforming bodies.“I want my classes to be body positive or body neutral spaces, where you do not feel different, but instead feel like you belong.”Her inclusive approach will help attendees realize the benefits of yoga, an ancient discipline that promotes physical and mental well-being through exercise movement and mediation. Gray will teach an array of classes starting in February. Too kick it off she is hosting a one-time event on Jan. 28 entitled Introduction to Yoga for Every Body. After this, people can enroll in one of three classes. Her Yoga for Every Body runs Thursday evenings from February to April. Participants will learn adaptations to fundamental yoga techniques and mechanics in an inclusive environment. Yoga for Warriors will take place on Wednesdays, and is taught through what Gray describes as a trauma-informed lens. The aim is to reduce physical and mental stress with dynamic movement, deep stretching, and relaxation. Her Weekend Yoga class on Saturdays will also include stretching and relaxation, but with a meditation component.As a large-bodied woman, Gray understands the frustrations associated with not having a mainstream yoga body. She was immediately discouraged when she first took up yoga 15 years ago because the instructor offered no modifications to the poses. She eventually quit the class, though kept up a home practice. About five years ago, she gravitated back to the classroom after finding a yoga course specially designed for larger bodies. “All of us are constantly inundated by diet culture and the beauty...

CFMWS / VAC––This Valentine’s Day thank Canadian Veterans by sending them a hand-made valentine.Each year, Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC) invites Canadian schools, individuals, and organizations to make Valentines for Vets. VAC then distributes the valentines to Veterans in long-term care facilities across the country by Feb. 14.Valentines for Vets began in 1989 when the late newspaper columnist, Ann Landers, encouraged her readers to create special valentines for Veterans in care facilities throughout Canada and the United States. Every year, Landers' special Valentines for Vets column asked her readers to remember the sacrifices of their nations' Veterans by making them personal hand-crafted valentines.VAC became involved with the program in 1996, and has been receiving and distributing valentines to Veterans in care facilities across the country ever since.“Last year VAC sent almost 17,000 valentines to more than 4,700 veterans,” says Ben Ouellette, Director Deployment Support, Recreation, and Messes and Acting Director PSP Operations. “In 2020, PSP Recreation participants across the country made cards, but with this year’s restrictions we may not be able to craft together, so we want to spread the word about this initiative as wide as possible.” If you would like to send a valentine thanking a Veteran, please send it by Feb. 1 to:Valentines for VetsVeterans Affairs CanadaCommemoration, Distribution Unit125 Maple Hills AvenueCharlottetown, PE  C1C 0B6*Veterans Affairs Canada will keep valentines that arrive after the deadline to distribute next year.A few rules about the programYou can send a store-bought valentine; hand-crafted cards, however, make Veterans feel extra special.Valentines of all shapes, sizes, and colours are welcome. However, valentines that are greeting-card size are easier to package and distribute.Please do not include candy or chocolate with the valentines.Do not use sparkles or materials that easily break off the valentines.Do not put individual valentines in sealed envelopes. Send us a single...

[caption id="attachment_25083" align="aligncenter" width="594"] Major (Retired) Murray Edwards[/caption]Peter MallettStaff Writer––Major (Retired) Murray Edwards received a potentially lifesaving belated birthday present Jan. 19. Three days after celebrating his 101st birthday, the Second World War and Korean War veteran, a resident of Veterans Memorial Lodge, received his COVID-19 vaccination.Murray willingly rolled up his sleeve as one of the nine nurses from Island Health administered the vaccine in the Lodge’s Oak Room. While the date is not yet set, residents will likely be scheduled for their second inoculation within the next month. “I am so thankful and very glad to be getting this vaccine,” he said. “I think this is a step in the right direction towards the goal of keeping everyone safe.”He added the safety measures are of “great importance” to him because his father was a victim of the last global pandemic, the Spanish Flu. That pandemic caused more than 50 million deaths worldwide. His father contracted the Spanish Flu in 1918 while serving in the Canadian Army during the First World War. He survived both the illness and the war. Last year, Murray’s 100th birthday was celebrated in a nearby hotel conference room and included a large crowd and music; this year’s 101st milestone was quiet. “Instead of a giant birthday cake with 101 candles, I received a cupcake with one candle,” he said wryly.Despite the low-key celebration, Edwards says he still had a delightful birthday. He received dozens of phone calls from friends, family, veterans, and other well-wishers such as the Honorable Yonah Martin, a Conservative Senator from B.C. Martin’s letter congratulated Edwards on reaching his latest milestone and for his service to Canada, calling him “a true Canadian hero.”Edwards served as a combat instructor during the Second World War and then with Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry at the Battle...

[caption id="attachment_25080" align="aligncenter" width="594"] Commodore Bradley Peats of the Royal Canadian Navy and Commodore José António Mirones of the Portuguese Navy sign change of command certificates during a Standing NATO Maritime Group One change of command ceremony held on board HMCS Halifax in Lisbon, Portugal, on Jan. 18. Photo by Sailor First Class Bryan Underwood, Imagery Technician[/caption]DND / CAF––Commodore Bradley Peats officially assumed command of Standing NATO Maritime Group One (SNMG1) during a change of command ceremony held in Lisbon, Portugal, Jan. 18. Cmdre Peats assumed command from Commodore José António Mirones of the Portuguese Navy.SNMG1 is one of four NATO Standing Naval Forces (SNF) that provide the Alliance with a continuous naval capability and presence that forms the core of the Very High Readiness Joint Task Force (Maritime). It is a multinational deterrent force that carries out a robust programme of operational deployments and complex training exercises and events with national navies to build and maintain the highest levels of readiness, interoperability, and war fighting capabilities.NATO is a cornerstone of Canada’s international security policy. It is also one of our most important multilateral relationships. Canada’s membership in the Alliance enables meaningful cooperation with Allies and partners to strengthen transatlantic defence and security, preserve the rules-based international order, and lead or otherwise contribute to international peace, security and stability efforts abroad.“I am honoured to have the opportunity and privilege of leading SNMG1 and look forward to building upon the successful deployment of Commodore Mirones, his flagship Corte-Real, and the outgoing SNMG1 staff,” said Cmdre Peats. “In an uncertain global environment, we are proud to contribute to NATO’s assurance and deterrence measures in Western and Northern European waters, including the Baltic Sea, North Sea, Norwegian Sea, and their maritime approaches.”HMCS Halifax is currently deployed with Standing NATO Maritime Group One as...

Peter MallettStaff Writer––The postponement of the 2020 Invictus Games has not deterred retired army sergeant Chris Zizek.The married 40-year-old father of two from Campbell River, B.C., had hoped to represent Team Canada at the Invictus Games in The Hague, Netherlands, last May.  He was looking forward to competing in the adaptive sports of rowing, sitting volleyball, and swimming, but the COVID-19 pandemic scuttled those plans.He was to be one of 31 athletes to represent Canada.“I would be lying if I said I wasn’t disappointed,” he says. But adds, “When I realized the purpose of the Games isn’t about the Games themselves but the individual journey, personal growth, and healing the athletes make long after the Games are completed, the postponement didn’t seem too bad.”The international multi-sport competition is designed for injured and ill service personnel who use physical activity and team-building exercises to assist in their recovery. The overall mandate of the Games is to help both its participants and a wider audience realize the value of healing through exercise and adaptive sport.Even though Zizek has yet to compete in the Games, he says the experience training at Camp Pendleton in San Diego last March was the start of his Invictus journey. The training camp brought together athletes from the United States, Australia, Georgia, France, and Colombia. It was an opportunity to discuss with other competitors the challenges they face and share their stories.Training alongside other injured military members and veterans from around the world cemented his belief in the fundamental intrinsic value of healing through activity and camaraderie.“Being involved with Invictus and the training process has already taken me somewhere different that is better for me, my wife, and my kids,” he said. “This is a way to focus on me and a way to move forward.”Zizek worked as...

[caption id="attachment_25072" align="aligncenter" width="595"] Sergeant Daniel Mongraw[/caption]Peter MallettStaff Writer––Sergeant Daniel Mongraw usually runs for himself, but this year he has decided to run for others.The military police officer has an ambitious plan to run the length of Vancouver Island to raise money for the Military Police Fund for Blind Children. He is not the first to complete this feat. Legendary distant runner Al Howie completed it in 1978. Sgt Mongraw will pause in Port Hardy to honour the legendary distance runner who died in 2016 at age 71. “He once completed the task within five days, which is truly astonishing,” says Sgt. Mongraw, 37. He will take 10 days to tackle the 495 kilometres, starting April 1. “I am confident I can do this. It’s a good way to use my time for a good cause. Since children and families can benefit from the much-needed additional funding I raise, I feel it’s a great thing to accomplish.”He is not a competitive runner, no marathon medals line his wall. He runs for mental health and fitness. The sport took hold as a lad when he was ­punished for misbehaving by his teacher and told to run laps around the school yard. To the bewilderment of his teacher and classmates, he willingly accepted the punishment and did extra laps. “Since that point, running has been great for me and I get a true sense of accomplishment when I complete my runs every day.” For the 10-day journey, he must maintain a speed of nine kilometres per hour for 10 to 13 hours per day. A police escort will keep him safe on the roadside. He hopes a recreational dealership will donate an RV for lodging, to cut down on costs and help with physical distancing. Further down the road, after accomplishing his Vancouver...

[caption id="attachment_25064" align="aligncenter" width="595"] Robert Beauchamp and his wife Nicole Robidoux.[/caption]Yves BelangerJournal Servir––Created in 2006 by the Canadian Forces Morale and Welfare Services, the HOPE program offers confidential support to bereaved families through peer volunteers who have experienced the same type of ordeal. It allows bereaved people to better understand the grieving process and helps reduce the sense of isolation that often accompanies it.Since 2009, Robert Beauchamp and his wife Nicole Robidoux have been among these volunteers. Two years earlier, their son Nicolas died while on a mission in Afghanistan.For Robert Beauchamp, helping parents going through the same ordeal is a way to cope with his grief. “Among other things, it allows me to make sense of what happened to my son.”Beauchamp explains that as soon as a CAF member dies, the spouse and parents are informed about the program. “People then decide whether or not they feel the need to use this free service.”The volunteer goes on to ensure that conversations with peers remain strictly confidential. “We have to report to those in charge of the program on how these people are doing and talk about their progress in the stages of mourning. However, the content of the discussions is never disclosed.”The accompaniment continues for as long as the bereaved person wishes; the longest Robert Beauchamp has ever done was about 16 months. It was a father whose child had committed suicide. “This man felt a lot of anger. One day, after several discussions, he told me that he understood that it was better to direct his energy towards the people around him rather than rehash his dark thoughts. I was so happy to see his evolution.”Beauchamp explains that the loss of a child creates a wound that never heals. “It’s not in the nature of things to outlive...

[caption id="attachment_25055" align="aligncenter" width="595"] Wurtele Arena Manager Kevin Zalba admires three new banners raised in memory of base hockey players Joe Lescene, Rob Sneath, and Keith Cowden. Photo by Rodney Venis, Base Public Affairs[/caption]Peter MallettStaff Writer––Banners honouring three fallen hockey players have been hung from the rafters in the Wurtele Arena. Crafted by workers from Fleet Maintenance Facility (FMF) Cape Breton, the large colourful memorials now hang over centre ice, commemorating the lives of recreational hockey players Joe Lescene, Rob Sneath, and Keith ‘Butch’ Cowden. While they may not have played in the NHL, all three were widely respected by their teammates and opponents and had reputations for hard work and sportsmanship, says Kevin Zalba, Wurtele Arena manager. Zalba, a former sailor, has played hockey at the base since the early 1980s and knew all three players. “Raising these banners was an emotional moment for me,” says Zalba. “It was very fitting for the Wurtele Arena because it’s important for players to look up and say ‘I remember those guys’.”The idea for the banners came following a tribute game for Lescene. Kelsey Khol and Matt Hood, Lescene’s teammates and workmates, suggested the idea to Zalba and offered up their expertise and assistance to get the banners made in their respective shops. Zalba brought the idea to the attention of former Base Commander Capt(N) Jason Boyd. An avid hockey player himself, Capt(N) Boyd gave his approval to the idea. A proper official unveiling ceremony is still being planned when provincial health and safety regulations surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic end.Hockey Legacies All three hockey players enjoyed lengthy military careers before transitioning to the DND civilian work force. While Sneath and Cowden played for the Tritons hockey team in Canadian Armed Forces competitions, Lescene played for recreational league teams the Angry Beavers and FMF...

[caption id="attachment_25049" align="aligncenter" width="595"] Artist Christina Morrison’s painting of Royal New Zealand Navy warship HMNZS Te Kaha passing Fisgard Lighthouse. Morrison, an employee of Seaspan Victoria Shipyards, was commissioned to do the painting following completion of extensive upgrades performed on the Anzac-Class frigate by her company. Credit: Seaspan Victoria Shipyards[/caption]Peter MallettStaff Writer––The most recent work of marine artist Christina Morrison now adorns a wall at Seaspan’s offices in Esquimalt. She was commissioned by the shipyard company, where she also works, to paint the Royal New Zealand Navy frigate HMNZS Te Kaha.The Anzac-class frigate underwent extensive upgrades at Seaspan in Esquimalt. The project represented the first time a foreign warship has undergone a modernization project in Canada since the Second World War. Work on Te Kaha was completed last year with the ship returning home to Davenport Naval Base in December. Te Kaha’s sister ship Te Mana is currently undergoing a similar upgrade in Esquimalt. Six members of Victoria Shipyards senior management attended the unveiling before the painting was put on display. Approximately 1,000 copies have been distributed to workers throughout the company to celebrate the occasion.“The ceremony went very well, and everyone seemed to love the painting,” said Morrison. “It was humbling to hear from so many co-workers around the shipyard how much they loved it.” Finding the right aerial photo that offered a detailed depiction of the ship’s exterior was crucial, says Morrison. Maritime Forces Pacific Imaging Services sent her an overhead drone photo of Te Kaha taken by photographer Sgt Malcolm Byers. With the image in hand, she had only a few weeks to complete the painting and get it printed. “The biggest challenge in painting Te Kaha from a photo was all the different shades of grey. I was frightened that something important would be missed because of the shadows cast by the sun.”Now that Te Kaha is complete, she is focused on her goal to paint all the tugboats in B.C. She estimates the project will take...

[caption id="attachment_25046" align="alignnone" width="595"] Four former navy members comprising the team responsible for completing the memorial for Robert Hampton Gray were on hand for the unveiling Jan. 5 at the BC Aviation Museum. From left: Stan Brygadyr, Project Secretary, Terry Milne, Project Manager, Gerry Pash, Project Public Relations, and Joe Buczkowski, Project Originator. Robert Hampton Gray was a Canadian naval pilot killed on a raid of Japanese destroyer Amakusa during the Second World War and was Canada’s last Victoria Cross recipient. [/caption]Peter MallettStaff Writer––After many delays, a memorial for Canada’s last Victoria Cross recipient, Lt Robert Hampton Gray, has been installed at the British Columbia Aviation Museum in Sidney.Plans to unveil the three-pillar marker dedicated to the Second World War naval pilot were originally set for Aug. 9, 2020, the 75th anniversary of his death. However, the ceremony was postponed due to health and safety concerns from the COVID-19 pandemic.Gerald Pash and Capt(N) (Retired) Terry Milne were the lone attendees as workers from Stewart Monumental Works dropped the 2.1 metres tall, polished grey granite markers into place with a small crane on Jan. 5.An official dedication ceremony is still in the works but that will not come until it is safe to do so, says Milne.“It was a great feeling of satisfaction and accomplishment to see this beautiful monument dropped into place, and I am proud so many people were united and determined to make this happen,” said Milne. “We didn’t want the legacy of this war hero to be forgotten and now future generations of Canadians can learn about the importance of his legacy.“Among the several committee members, volunteers, and community organizations who were essential to making the dream of a Gray monument a reality, I am grateful to Colonel (Retired) Stan Brygadyr, who has served as project secretary,...

Vice-Admiral Craig Baines––As I assume command from Vice-Admiral McDonald, I would like to recognize the significant leadership that my shipmate has provided to the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) throughout his command and through these unprecedented times. I also want to state what an honour and a privilege it is to become the 37th commander of the Royal Canadian Navy. The greatest part of this honour is continuing to serve with the outstanding Canadians who wear a uniform on behalf of their country and the public servants who support them, often while working in hazardous environments far from home.In my first message to you, the RCN, I wish to be clear and concise on where I will focus my energies and on my initial priorities. First and foremost, the keystone objective I want to articulate is that of respect. Respect for the RCN, respect for yourself, and most importantly, respect for your fellow shipmates. Our strength is in our diversity, and that strength hinges on greater inclusion. If we respect others as we respect ourselves, we will be the best organization we can be.In support of this keystone objective, and in addition to our ongoing innovation in the areas of data and digitization (the digital vision that will enable everything we do), there are four over-arching areas/themes that will be a continuing priority going forward (known by the shorthand of “S3Charlie”):- sailors, public servants, and their families;- ships and submarines;- service; and- culture.First, our sailors, public servants and families. I will always focus on the work and life experience of our Defence Team and the families that support them. What you do is important and the lifeblood of all of our preparation, readiness and operations; your individual preparedness creates readiness, which allows us to manage the system of systems that make...

[caption id="attachment_25037" align="aligncenter" width="595"] Admiral Art McDonald assumed command of the Canadian Armed Forces from General Jonathan Vance Jan. 14 during a ceremony held virtually in Ottawa.[/caption]Royal Canadian Navy––For the first time in more than two decades, one of the Royal Canadian Navy’s own is Canada’s Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS).Admiral (Adm) Art McDonald assumed the role of CDS from General (Gen) Jonathan Vance in a COVID-friendly virtual ceremony on Jan.14 in Ottawa. A Bluenoser born in New Waterford, Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, Adm McDonald is Canada’s 20th CDS.Her Excellency the Right Honourable Julie Payette, Governor General and Commander-in-Chief of Canada, presided over the ceremony virtually. The Right Honourable Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada; the Honourable Harjit Sajjan, Minister of National Defence; and the Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence, also attended virtually.“It is the greatest privilege of my career to address you as your Chief of the Defence Staff,” Adm McDonald said in his message released National Defence-wide following the ceremony. “Upon assuming the Watch, I offer tremendous thanks and appreciation to General Vance – wishing him fair winds and following seas. I am humbled and honoured to relieve such a great leader and mentor.”The Admiral went on to praise Defence Team members for their professionalism, integrity, creativity, and ingenuity.“Your integrity shines through and inspires Canadians,” he said. “Not surprisingly, you have as a result become a beacon of hope when times are difficult. You are Canada at its best when Canada’s best are needed at home or abroad.”In his new role, Adm McDonald will oversee the Canadian Armed Forces’ ongoing operations in Canada and around the world, and their contributions to the national response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including support for Canada’s vaccine rollout through Operation VECTOR.The Admiral noted...

Royal Canadian Navy––Vice-Admiral (VAdm) Craig Baines assumed the duties of Commander of the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) from VAdm Art McDonald on Jan. 12, 2021, in a virtual change of command ceremony presided over by General Jonathan Vance, Chief of the Defence Staff, at National Defence Headquarters in Ottawa.“As I assume Command from Vice-Admiral McDonald, I would like to recognize the significant leadership that my shipmate has provided to the RCN throughout his command,” said VAdm Baines. “It goes without saying what an honour and privilege it is to become the 37th Commander of the Royal Canadian Navy. Without question, the biggest part of this honour is continuing to serve with a group of outstanding Canadians who wear a uniform on behalf of their country, often serving in a complex environment far from home.” VAdm Baines has served in a variety of command and staff roles throughout his career, most recently as Deputy Vice Chief of the Defence Staff.“We will continue to prioritize support to our sailors, Defence Team members, and their families while managing ongoing cultural change, domestic, and international operations, fleet recapitalization, training and readiness, all while innovating throughout our organization to make us the most inclusive, respect-driven navy we can be,” he said. “We remain committed to be ready to help, ready to lead, and ready to fight for Canadians.”The outgoing Commander of the Royal Canadian Navy, VAdm McDonald, was promoted to the rank of Admiral and succeeded General Vance as the 20th Chief of the Defence Staff last Thursday.“It has been an honour and privilege to lead as the Commander of the Royal Canadian Navy for the past 18 months,” said VAdm McDonald. “As one navy team, we have successfully accomplished our mission objectives and have followed through the progression of key projects and initiatives while...

[caption id="attachment_25018" align="aligncenter" width="594"] The CAM-Main North Warning System Site at Cambridge Bay, Nunavut, is being considered for the deployment of the hybrid microgrid system under the AMAZE project.[/caption]DND––A team of researchers is aiming to make Arctic facilities more sustainable through the Defence Research and Development Canada (DRDC)-led project, Advanced Microgrids towards Arctic Zero Emissions (AMAZE). Defence buildings and assets in Canada’s far north, including the North Warning System, use significant amounts of fuel for electricity and heating because of their remote locations and extreme cold conditions."This project, while targeting reduced fossil fuel use and greenhouse gas reductions, is also about maintaining or improving DND operations," says Dr. Gisele Amow, lead defence scientist. "Every litre of fuel that is not used is one litre of fuel that does not produce greenhouse gases or have to be flown, resulting in significant cost savings and yearly flight rates."Key collaborators on the AMAZE project include DND’s Assistant Deputy Minister Infrastructure and Environment, the Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) CanmetENERGY Varennes laboratory, and the National Research Council Canada (NRC).AMAZE builds on previous DRDC-led Arctic work with NRCan CanmetENERGY at CFS Alert, where roughly 1.8 million litres of fuel is consumed annually at its main power plant. Since fuel is delivered by heavy lift aircraft, it takes seven litres of fuel to deliver one litre of fuel to the site. The study identified energy savings, such as switching to LED lighting and building upgrades, that could save up to 37 per cent annual fuel use.The AMAZE team aims to reduce greenhouse gases at North Warning System sites by developing hybrid microgrid systems that use multiple energy resources with advanced controls adapted for the north. Advanced microgrid control will provide intelligent load control and management of energy resources, whether the hybrid system is standalone or connected to a grid. This project may include solar photovoltaics and more efficient fuel-based technologies such as variable speed...

Margaret ConwayCFB Halifax Base Public Affairs Officer––Virginia Beaton, editor of CFB Halifax’s Trident newspaper, has retired.   She began working as an assistant editor and reporter for the Trident in 2002, and then moved into the primary editor role in 2009. She began her working career as a classical musician after receiving both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in music. She played flute in pit orchestras, on radio programmes, on track recordings for film, and anywhere else her services were in demand. When on a job with CBC, a staff member asked her if she’d done any writing/broadcasting.  She had not, aside from all of the research and writing she’d done as part of her master’s degree but was interested in giving it a try. This leap of faith led to a 10-year career as a freelance writer. “It paid well, and you could do it on your own time,” she said, noting that was an important aspect of the job since she had a child at home. In 2002, she was made aware of an opening at the Trident Newspaper office. She knew nothing about the Canadian Armed Forces or the Royal Canadian Navy but was willing to take her chances. Eighteen years later, she has no regrets, noting the pride she feels doing this work. “My father was in the RCMP when he was a young man. Although he passed away before I took the job with the Trident, I think he would have been proud of me.” After an incredible run at the helm of the Trident, she retired at the end of December. The accolades and farewells were quick to flow in.This testimonial from a dear friend and fellow Defence Team member Mike Bonin sums it up nicely: “I remember the challenges you faced square on and how...

Ryan MelansonTrident Newspaper––A new year brought a new mission for the ship’s company of HMCS Halifax, who left homeport on New Year’s Day to join Standing NATO Maritime Group One (SNMG1) as part of a six-month deployment to Operation Reassurance.The departure marks the 15th consecutive deployment in support of the NATO assurance and deterrence mission in European waters, with Royal Canadian Navy ships maintaining a consistent presence since 2014. Halifax will operate with its NATO allies in Western and Northern European waters – they’re set to conduct an intense program of operational patrols and training exercises, maintaining NATO’s presence in key regions while also building on their ability to work in concert with the multinational vessels that make up the SNMG1 task group.“This is our commitment to our NATO partners that we will continue to work with them, to learn how to better work together, and to assure them Canada will be a committed partner now and into the future,” said Cdr Chris Rochon, Halifax’s Commanding Officer, while speaking to media prior to departing. He was backed up at the podium by Cmdre Bradley Peats, who’ll be joining the ship in Europe as Canada assumes command of SNMG1 for the duration of the deployment. Cmdre Peats will take over as Commander SNMG1, while Halifax will serve as the task group flagship, replacing the Portuguese Navy ship NRP Corte-Real.It’s an exciting time for Halifax, but it’s also an anxious time for sailors and their families, Cdr Rochon added. The unique nature of this deployment was accentuated by the lack of family members at the jetty for the send-off, with COVID-19 restrictions barring the usual large gathering. The ship has been planning extensively since March, and without downplaying the legitimate worries and risks associated with the pandemic, Cdr Rochon said he’s confident...

[caption id="attachment_24980" align="aligncenter" width="595"] Sailor First Class (S1) Andrea Passy[/caption]2Lt Jamie Boparai Base Administration––Not many people know at age sixteen which career they want.For Sailor First Class (S1) Andrea Passy, she was attracted to the profession at arms well before then. Her family baby-sat for a military member, and that person had a big influence in her life, she says. “He spoke fondly about his trade as a naval communicator which influenced me, not only to join but to follow in his footsteps.”She joined the Primary Reserves with HMCS Unicorn in Saskatoon, SK, at 16. She needed parental consent as one must be at least 18 years old to join the Canadian Armed Forces Primary Reserves. But there are exceptions. To join so young, one must be enrolled as a full-time student and have parental permission. “I think my parents were a little surprised at the time with me going in this direction, but they have always supported me. They were the ones that had to sign on the dotted line for my enrollment after all.”She trained to become a Naval Communicator, a trade that establishes and maintains communication over Canadian and allied networks using various frequencies, lines of sight, and long-range satellite communications. “I saw a lot of things at a young age that I might not have seen in the civilian world. Once a week we would come in for lectures and specialized training, such as seamanship and knot tying. On special occasions, we would even take a small RHIB out on the river for live training exercises. It was a lot of fun.”She got real sea time in HMCS Toronto during Operation Reassurance in 2014. That cemented her direction to go regular force, which she did a year later. However, because she joined at such a young...

DND––The Department of National Defence (DND) and the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) would like to thank the 27,000 Defence Team members who participated in the COVID-19 Defence Team Survey. Your feedback and, especially, your candid comments have already begun to help inform organizational approaches to supporting personnel and their families as we navigate the COVID-19 crisis and as the organization prepares for the future.The survey was designed to understand the experiences and requirements of Defence Team members stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic. The results highlight some of the challenges Defence Team members have faced, many of which are due to the substantial changes to work arrangements, concern about family members, and the added pressures of having to navigate daycare and school closures. Despite these challenges, respondents expressed favourable views regarding the support they have received from their immediate supervisors and from DND/CAF. We will continue to monitor the needs of all personnel and provide the support required.Since the start of the pandemic, DND/CAF have put into place programs and resources for members of the Defence Team in order to support their physical health and mental wellbeing. In addition to the already existing resources and support offered through the Canadian Forces Member Assistance Program and the Employee Assistance Program, we have taken further action. We have initiated several COVID-specific programs and created some helpful resources.Rest assured we will continue to support our members as this situation evolves. Your responses to the survey are helping inform organizational decisions that will be critical to our continued operations, and our successful reintegration.Results from the survey are now available to Defence Team members here: www.canada.ca/en/department-national-defence/maple-leaf/defence/2020/12/findings-covid-19-dt-survey-available.html––––

Katelyn MooresBase Public Affairs––After months of work, the $162.5 million Esquimalt Harbour Remediation Project reached a major milestone with the completion of remediation at the Y-Jetty and Lang Cove site in the summer.The Remediation Project, which began January 2019, addressed contamination that had accumulated in the harbour seabed after almost 200 years of commercial, military, and industrial use. This particular area was home to an operational shipyard from 1893 to 1994, most of that time known as Yarrows. In 1996, these lands were acquired by the Department of National Defence for $1. In its day, Yarrows Shipyard was a bustling business, building ships for the Royal Canadian Navy and Canada’s Merchant Marine Service during the Second World War, and later vessels for BC Ferries – just to name a few. Regrettably, contamination from shipbuilding and repair activities and log booming had a severe impact on the health of the harbour environment over the years.   “One of the greatest contributors to contamination at the Y-Jetty site was sandblasting operations, which were used to remove rust and paint from ship hulls,” explained Mike Bodman, Manager of Base Safety and Environment and Esquimalt Harbour Remediation Project Manager. “Unfortunately, this work was done at a time when there was very little understanding of the effect it would have on the marine environment. So, metals and other toxic ingredients in the paint were allowed to enter the harbour and eventually settled in the seabed.” Until recently, remnants of this sandblast waste could be seen in the black sand along the shoreline near Y-Jetty in Lang Cove. The area is now filled with clean sand from the Fraser River, just one of the positive improvements that has resulted from this project. During the remediation of Y-Jetty and Lang Cove site, over 48,500 cubic metres of sediment was...

Kimberley KielleyShilo Stag Newspaper––Classically trained opera singer Joslin Dennis sang to her grandmother Betty Coleman one last time on Nov. 24.Betty Jean Coleman, a long-time resident of Brandon, Manitoba, died peacefully that day at home in Victoria, B.C., surrounded by family. She was 95.She had chosen medically assisted death after a life-altering, inoperable injury that impacted life as she knew it.Daughter Susan Romphf from Victoria, and son Bob Coleman of Kentucky were also with her when she died.Betty was a former Honorary Colonel of 26 Field Regiment RCA, and patron of HMCS Brandon. She moved to Vancouver Island seven years ago from her beloved prairie home.Her final moments were a celebration, said Romphf, adding it was important for her to die in her own bed in the apartment she called home.An hour before she died, Betty and her daughter sipped chilled dry white wine from a box, waiting for the doctor, reminiscing with family members. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day. Betty chose death on her terms, according to the family.“It was beautiful,” said Romphf, recalling the day. “My brother Bob had bourbon on ice on Zoom with his wife and three kids, while we waited for the doctor.”Betty decided choosing her own death after attending a seminar on medically assisted death, rather than waiting for it to take her, said Romphf.“Mum didn’t shy away from discussing it. We had time to prepare. She was ready to go.”Her life was altered after a fall that broke her hip. “She was backing up with her walker and sat down and landed on her bum in the kitchen. She phoned to tell me she’d fallen and refused to go to hospital. There was a show on TV she wanted to see,” said Romphf. Eventually, she agreed to seek medical help. The...

[caption id="attachment_24943" align="aligncenter" width="595"] S2 Kelsey Labbé receives a surprise promotion outside her house.[/caption]S1 Bill Jethro BagunuHMCS Star––Festive dinners in the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) are ripe with tradition and holiday cheer. On Saturday, Dec. 5, Naval Reserve Division HMCS Star’s Festive Dinner tradition continued, albeit a little differently. Due to the ongoing pandemic, only a limited number of sailors were able to attend this year’s festivities. Festivities began with promotions, awards and presentations. Well-earned medals were awarded for service in various operations including Caribbe, Reassurance and Projection. Commissioning scrolls and certificates of recognition were provided and acknowledged by Lieutenant-Commander Marie-Sonya Sowa, Star’s Commanding Officer. Normally, the festive dinner, the Officers, Chiefs, and Petty Officers would serve the Junior Ranks a complete turkey dinner prepared by Star’s Galley. COVID-19 restrictions prevented the unit from gathering for these festivities, leading the Command Team to adapt the plan and find a new way to continue the tradition of serving its junior sailors while following health regulations. So, the concept of Duff Boxes was born, with the unique catch phrase of ‘Duff No Duff’. ‘Duff’ being naval slang for desserts; ‘No Duff’ meaning it’s not a drill, it’s for real. This included the senior leadership delivering boxes of cookies and sweets with signed cards from the Commanding Officer to the houses of junior sailors, staying true to the tradition of leadership serving its junior ranks during the festive season.“I love it! For us the festive dinner is an opportunity for the sailors to be treated from the Officers, Chiefs and Petty Officers; to recognize their efforts and allow them to be seated while we do the serving,” said LCdr Sowa. She ensured each vehicle was equipped with hand sanitizer and that physical distancing practices and mask etiquette were followed.During duff box deliveries, S2...

Peter MallettStaff Writer––Twenty years ago, the first of four Victoria-Class submarines was commissioned into the Royal Canadian Navy.It was a cold Dec. 2 day in Halifax when Cdr Bill Woodburn, HMCS Victoria’s commanding officer, declared the occasion “a great moment in Canadian history and a great navy day.”This year, to celebrate the submarine’s 20th anniversary, a morale patch has been created for Victoria’s submariners to wear on their uniforms starting Jan. 1, 2021. “The idea for the morale patch started last year with our sailors wanting to commemorate the service of everyone who served in Victoria over the last two decades,” said LCdr Eric Isabelle, Victoria’s current commanding officer. “The design of the patch will also serve as a reminder of Victoria’s previous service as HMS Unseen.” The submarine first served the Royal Navy until it was purchased by Canada in 1998. MS Allan Gauthier, one of Victoria’s Weapons Engineering Technicians, created the patch design. He sketched his idea, and then turned it into a painting before submitting it to senior leadership for approval. “It’s quite an honour, humbling, and also intriguing to know my artwork has a legacy that will last forever,” said MS Gauthier. “A morale patch is memorabilia that sailors and their families will hold on to forever. I wanted a chance to make something that stands out, something that is unique and completely different.”Central to the patch is shield depicting a heraldic golden lion  - a nod to HMS Unseen and its British heritage - holding Victoria’s crown, which is central to the submarine’s badge. It is designed like a family crest with the shield surrounded by maple leaves. At the top are Roman numerals XX denoting 20 years of service; at the bottom in a gold ribbon is HMCS Victoria. Patches are intended to boost morale...

Anita Slomp Conflict Management Practitioner Edmonton––The Defence Team has grown familiar  with, and benefitted from the steady support of their local Conflict and Complaint Management Services (CCMS) office, including drawing on the skill and knowledge of agents, trainers, and practitioners when challenging workplace situations arise.  CCMS provides the opportunity for a way forward when we are feeling stuck because of conflict in our units and workplaces, and is of great value when the stress of unresolved conflict clouds our thinking and productivity. So, what happens at home, where a resource like the CCMS does not exist?We all are facing, dare I say it, an unprecedented holiday season. I can already hear the groans. Traditions that often connect us will have to be reconsidered. If your home is anything like mine, the being together that is often looked forward to over the holidays has lost some of its charm.How can we help ensure the holiday spirit is not overtaken by the tension, stress, and frayed emotions we may already be feeling?One method is to consider the effectiveness of our communication and approach with our loved ones.A tendency for many of us is to adopt an accommodating approach with our family members and close friends. This means we will put their needs before ours, and go to great lengths to keep the peace.  Although this approach, often seen as passive, will make you popular and appreciated, it is not sustainable over time. This holiday it will be essential to keep your personal needs in balance with the needs of those around you. Ask yourself the question: “Have I put the same energy and focus into my needs, plans, and well-being as I have for those around me?” For those of you who default to the accommodating style, this will seem selfish. Before you...

[caption id="attachment_24927" align="aligncenter" width="595"] CFB Borden’s fitness facility.[/caption]CFB Halifax Public Affairs––Two years ago, CFB Halifax’s Stadacona Fitness, Sports and Recreation Centre (STADPLEX) closed its doors for the last time after 75 years in operation. At that time, a comprehensive Real Property Operations infrastructure plan was developed to address the short, medium and long-term fitness needs of the base population.Since then, local Defence Team members, visitors of the base, and neighbouring residents have likely noticed lots of activity taking place on the STADPLEX property. Following a lengthy demolition period, the space that housed the 8,853 square meter facility is now neat and tidy, featuring a new parking area and sidewalk, a gravel pad and landscaping. But there’s more planned for this property. Where STADPLEX once stood will soon be a new gym hub for local Defence Team members. “We are currently entering the design phase for a temporary, winterized fitness facility, to be constructed on this property,” explains Maj Mandy Landolt, Officer Commanding Real Property Operations Section (Halifax).Modelled after a similar facility at CFB Borden, the 1,250 square metre fitness space at Stadacona will be heated and air-conditioned, and include an open gymnasium area for basketball, volleyball, badminton, and ball hockey; an area for cardio machines and weights; locker rooms with showers and washrooms; a reception office for fitness and sports instructors; and a storage room for equipment. Considerably more compact than the original STADPLEX gym, the facility will have a maximum capacity of approximately 134 members; this capacity will be reduced as required if physical distancing measures are still in effect upon final construction. While PSP Halifax staff have been offering quality fitness services at both the Fleet and Shearwater gyms as well as online, they are looking forward to bringing some of these services back to Stadacona as the operators of this new facility.“Between the closure of STADPLEX in 2018 and the current challenges...

[caption id="attachment_24924" align="aligncenter" width="595"] CPO2 Herman Rohrback[/caption]2Lt Jamie BoparaiBase Administration––Chief Petty Officer Second Class Herman Rohrback’s succession to becoming Base Administration’s Single Quarters Chief Steward started with a long career in the Sea Cadets.It all began at the age of 12 when his twin brother’s Godfather became the Commanding Officer of the 129 Caribou, North Sydney Core in Cape Breton, NS. He was continuously working towards growing his Cadet Corps and was challenged with a sudden loss of three cadets. “The Commanding Officer asked us if we were interested in joining the program, so we did.” CPO2 Rohrback fondly remembers his time with the Cadet Corps and would recommend joining to any young person looking for an adventure. “It was exciting as a kid. I had the chance to advance personally, learn new life skills, and progress to new ranks and status’ by being promoted within the Cadet Corps organization.” He made it all the way to the rank of Staff Sergeant.The program gave him an opportunity to see other regions of Nova Scotia and Canada for the first time. He did an eight-week basic sailing course in Halifax and came to B.C. for a signal and communication course. “I was very successful during my time with the Cadet Corps. In each of my last three years I was the recipient of the Most Outstanding Cadet Award.” In his final year he was the first cadet to receive the newly minted Medal of Excellence awarded by the North Sydney Legion. This success, after serving with the Cadet Corps for six years, aided in his decision that the military was an avenue he wanted to pursue. He joined as a Boatswain, but was asked to select three additional trades, as Boatswain was no longer being offered to newly joining recruits. “I...

[caption id="attachment_24920" align="aligncenter" width="594"] Harry DeWolf sails under the Confederation Bridge between Prince Edward Island and New Brunswick. Photo by Corporal David Veldman, Canadian Armed Forces[/caption]Ryan MelansonTrident Newspaper––The future HMCS Harry DeWolf sailed under Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) command for the first time in early October, and has since been at sea regularly with the crew conducting training, testing, and trials on the new vessel. The work is part of a normal process to incrementally test Harry DeWolf and its systems, and as sailors gain experience with this first-of-class ship, they’re also making an immediate impact on RCN business, explains the ship’s commanding officer. “Tests and trials can be a limiting description. The ship is in naval service, and it has been since July 31, 2020,” said Commander Corey Gleason, referencing the official date Harry DeWolf was delivered to the Department of National Defence this past summer. That delivery was followed by an initial alongside work period before heading to sea. While trials will continue over the next 12 months, they will be taking place alongside naval operations, Cdr Gleason added. During the most recent proficiency sail to Newfoundland and Labrador, the ship contributed to Canada’s maritime domain awareness while also gaining proficiency with the new platform. “We’re providing sovereignty through presence in Canada’s domestic waterways. As we encountered aircraft and surface vessels, we identified them, tied their broadcasted information with their registry, and compared our own recognized maritime domain picture with our maritime command component ashore,” he said, noting the ship is also ready to respond as a backup search and rescue asset locally. Through the remainder of the fall and winter, Harry DeWolf will conduct both cold-weather and warm-weather trials as it continues building operational capability. The ship will work with Cyclone helicopters and PUMA unmanned aerial vehicles,...

Peter MallettStaff Writer––HMCS Vancouver has entered the final phase of a lengthy and extensive refit.The frigate’s extended work period started at Seaspan Victoria Shipyards nearly two years ago. It was returned to the navy Nov. 16 when the ship’s Commanding Officer, LCdr Matthew Arthur and approximately 30 crew took possession of the ship from the Government of Canada’s Assistant Deputy Minister (Materiel). With the assistance of two Queen’s Harbour Master tugs, Vancouver made the short journey across Esquimalt Harbour to its berthing spot at Dockyard’s ‘C’ Jetty. However, the extended work period isn’t completed quite yet. The restoring process is now underway with ship’s staff and contractors returning supplies, equipment, and furnishings to the ship. After the extended refit period is complete in May 2021, ship and crew will conduct Basic Single-Ship Readiness Training during the summer.“Moving forward, we also hope to commence sea trials in autumn of next year,” said LCdr Arthur. “Then next up in early in 2022, Vancouver is scheduled to complete Intermediate Multi-ship Readiness Training with an eye towards high readiness in the summer of that year.” The refit of the navy’s 12 frigates ensures they remain the backbone of the fleet until the delivery of Canadian Surface Combatant (CSC) vessels. “It also ensures our ability to defend Canadian sovereignty, project Canada’s foreign policy, and aid civil power and law enforcement including fishery, shipping, search and rescue, and border protection,” said LCdr Arthur. The lion’s share of the work was completed by Seaspan Victoria Shipyard, but ship’s staff and Fleet Maintenance Facility Cape Breton workers also worked on the ship over the two years. There were numerous hull and deck plate replacements, including large sections of the hull below the waterline in the ship’s engine room. Also, a full cleaning of the ventilation system was completed and...

[caption id="attachment_24910" align="aligncenter" width="595"] MCpl Ryan Mountenay[/caption]Peter MallettStaff Writer––MCpl Ryan Mountenay, 38, has found a way to combine his creativity with his military trade skillset.He’s a Materials Technician with Lord Strathcona Horse (Royal Canadians) Regiment in Edmonton and a former Marine Engineering Mechanic on former HMC Ships Algonquin and Huron. Among his jack-of-all skills is airbrushing. During the final days of an automotive repair class at CFB Borden, his instructor challenged the students to air brush anything they wanted on to blank panels of sheet metal. MCpl Mountenay chose the logo of a popular motorcycle apparel company. With only a postcard-sized printout of the logo, he successfully converted it into a large airbrushed likeness. “I thought it wasn’t that good but the instructor, who was an experienced graphics painter, was completely impressed with what he saw,” said MCpl Mountenay. “That gave me a complete boost of confidence. He took that skill up a notch when he painted his first portrait, his grandfather in his early years as a paratrooper. It took a few attempts to get it right, but the final outcome was a remarkable black and white painting. The soft hues from the airbrushing gave the image an ethereal quality. When he presented his grandfather with the portrait in 2012, he received a subdued response. But that was okay, says MCpl Mountenay, as the painting wasn’t meant to elicit a generous response. “My grandfather was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease just after I returned from my tour to Afghanistan in 2011; I created it so he would remember who I was and know that I painted it.” The two were very close before the progressive disorder that causes brain cells to waste away faded his memory.[caption id="attachment_24912" align="aligncenter" width="430"] MCpl Ryan Mountenay’s art including a portrait of his grandfather as a young paratrooper depicited above.[/caption]MCpl Mountenay lived with his mother and grandparent’s on their farm in Millbrook, ON, until he was almost three years old. “Growing up, I spent most...

[caption id="attachment_24907" align="aligncenter" width="595"] LCdr Mitchell Drake. Photo by Capt Irene Doucette.[/caption]SLt K.B. McHale-Hall MARPAC Public Affairs––“People first, mission always.” Amidst a global pandemic, this core philosophy of the Canadian Armed Forces is as important now as it has ever been. The objective to preserve Force health while continuing Force generation lies at the forefront of the minds, and ultimately in the hands, of military leadership and medical professionals.  Several warships and hundreds of sailors are currently at sea off the coast of British Columbia participating in Exercise Trident Fury, all while the province has experienced a resurgence in COVID-19 cases and issued restrictions to certain activities. The capability to exercise the fleet under these conditions can be accredited to the efforts of many, including Fleet Surgeon Lieutenant-Commander Mitchell Drake. LCdr Drake shares the same position former Medical Officer now Provincial Health Officer, Dr. Bonnie Henry once held during her time in the Forces. In light of the current pandemic, he now finds himself liaising with her and her staff regularly. Both east coasters with hometowns in PEI, and having attended Dalhousie University in Halifax, N.S., for medical school, LCdr Drake jokingly remarks of the commonalities. “I don’t have any shoes named after me yet, but there’s still time.” His career began in the Naval Reserves serving as a Logistics Officer while studying to become a physician. Since completing his residency in Calgary, AB, he has served in a variety of roles, from deployments with the Canadian Army in Europe and the Royal Canadian Navy at sea in Asterix, to more clinical settings as Base Surgeon and now Fleet Surgeon.In March, about a week before the Base introduced COVID-19 protocols, he started his current position; his responsibilities are extensive.“My main role is advising Command Staff in the Fleet, lately on the topic of COVID-19, as well as being the senior medical authority on this coast for all of the operational clinicians.” To meet the unique challenges facing military operations, they are using tools specifically developed for the Canadian Armed Forces and now more recently for the navy.  “We’ve leveraged our scientists at Defence Research Development Canada, who have developed excellent modeling tools and maps. We use these and other risk calculators they’ve developed to determine the likelihood...