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[caption id="attachment_24730" align="aligncenter" width="595"] Jamie Birtwistle, Real Property Operations (Esquimalt) Energy Manager, stands below to two rows of solar panels on the west wall of the Naden Athletic Centre. Photo by RPOps (Esq)[/caption]Peter MallettStaff Writer––Just below the roofline on the Naden Athletic Centre’s west wall are 22 large solar panels. They were recently installed by Real Property Operations (Esquimalt) as part of an energy performance contract to help the base reduce its carbon footprint and energy costs. At the gym, the solar energy will pre-heat the hot water supply for the heating system, showers and the pool.“Solar power is a renewable energy source with net zero pollutants of CO2,” explained Jamie Birtwistle, RPOps(Esq) Energy Manager. “When we speak about climate-change action plans and we embrace the aspiration to become a carbon neutral defence community, these alternative technologies are quite appealing.” The energy-reducing projects are part of the Department of National Defence Energy and Environmental Strategy (2020-23). The aim of the strategy, implemented in 2017, is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from DND infrastructure and commercial light-duty vehicle fleets to below 40 percent of the 2005 emissions by 2025, and to net-zero emissions by 2050. The solar panels are one step towards reaching those goals, says Birtwistle. The panels were purchased by Ameresco Canada and employ solar array technology. The technology uses a system of photo voltaic cells that heat propylene glycol fluid within the panels. The solar-heated fluid travels through a system of tubes to preheat water within the building’s heating systems. While the solar panels won’t eliminate the use of traditional energy sources completely, they can reduce greenhouse gas emissions at the gym annually by 25 metric tonnes, says Birtwistle.RPOps staff were provided a  training session by Ameresco so they could understand how the system functions and how to maintain...

[caption id="attachment_24727" align="aligncenter" width="594"] HMCS Summerside departs on 26 October. The Honorable Arthur J. Leblanc, ONS, QC, Lieutenant Governor of Nova Scotia and Commodore Richard Feltham, Commander Canadian Fleet Atlantic, takes the salute. Photo by Mona Ghiz, MARLANT Public Affairs[/caption]National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces––HMCS Summerside departed Halifax Oct. 26 for Operation Caribbe, Canada’s contribution to Campaign Martillo – the multinational campaign against transnational criminal organizations in the Caribbean Sea and eastern Pacific Ocean. This is the 14th year the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) has conducted Operation Caribbe, working with Western Hemisphere and European partners to address security challenges in the region by deterring criminal activity and disrupting illicit trafficking operations.As part of Operation Caribbe, the Royal Canadian Navy deploys a periodic rotation of warships from both the east and west coasts, while the Royal Canadian Air Force provides CP-140 Aurora aircraft from long-range patrol squadrons. Deploying from Halifax, NS, Summerside will be working with the United States Coast Guard and the United States Navy to find and track vessels of interest in the Caribbean Basin. The USCG law enforcement detachments (LEDET) then approach and intercept them, before boarding and inspecting the ship and cargo. Since 2006, the navy and the air force have been credited with supporting the seizure or disruption of approximately 105 metric tonnes of cocaine and more than 6.7 metric tonnes of marijuana. Each member of the crew in Summerside has undergone a 14-day sequestration prior to their departure for this mission in order to minimize the risk of transmission of COVID-19.––––

[caption id="attachment_24724" align="alignnone" width="595"] Graduates of Basic Military Qualification R0236E present arms during their Graduation Ceremony at the Nixon Gym in Work Point on Oct. 23. Photo by S1 Sisi Xu, MARPAC Imaging Services[/caption]Peter MallettStaff Writer––The isolation bubble is broken and the West Coast’s first set of De-centralized Basic Military Qualification (BMQ) recruits are on their way to trades training. On Friday Oct. 23, 34 Sailor Third Class recruits graduated after completing 10 weeks of training inside a restricted access cohort to keep them healthy and safe while training in the current COVID-19 environment.Recruits were presented their graduation certificates by Cdr Annick Fortin, Naval Fleet School (Pacific) Commandant, in a physically distanced graduation ceremony at Work Point’s Nixon Building.“I am very proud of all of the candidates and the staff.  All those involved in this qualification process did an excellent job,” said Cdr Fortin. “There were lots of sacrifices made along the way by the staff to make this a success.”Since family and friends were not permitted to attend, the event was streamed live on Facebook. BMQs are normally run through the Canadian Forces Leadership and Recruit School in St. Jean-sur-Richelieu, Québec. De-centralized BMQs were developed and conducted on the East and West Coasts under the leadership of Commander Naval Personnel and Training Group in order to fulfill personnel requirements of the Fleet, while also easing the pressure on the Canadian Forces Leadership and Recruit School as training resumed once the initial shutdown in response to the pandemic was eased. The Leadership and Recruit School normally trains Army and Air Force personnel in addition to members of the Navy.De-centralized BMQs are an innovative measure designed to deliver Regular Force BMQ serials for the navy in a safe, carefully planned, deliberate manner abiding by directed protective health measures. The Royal Canadian Navy’s...

[caption id="attachment_24721" align="aligncenter" width="595"] Photo by S1 Mike Goluboff, MARPAC Imaging Services[/caption]Peter MallettStaff Writer––Military cooks received a tasty tutorial by a former DND civilian employee turned cookbook author last week in the Wardroom kitchen.With her cookbook Milk, Spice and Curry Leaves: Hill Country Recipes from the Heart of Sri Lanka in hand, Ruwan Samarakoon-Amunugama demonstrated how to make traditional Sri Lankan dishes.“When I decided upon the recipes of curry chicken, yellow rice, and beet root curry, I wanted to have something that chefs could easily prepare whether they were on land or in a ship,” said Samarakoon-Amunugama.Her culinary tutorial was part of a week-long foodie event that promoted Food Diversity Week through different cultural fare.Her instruction introduced the cooks to the pillars of the island nation’s cuisine: coconut milk, rice, and spice, including roasted curry powder.MS Ryan Eves attended the class and was impressed by the flavour profile.“When she was finished instructing and cooking everyone got to sample the food. It tasted completely different than the seasonings and spices in curries any of us had tried before,” said MS Eves. “I think that adding Sri Lankan cuisine to our menu is a welcome change for our chefs and will provide a morale boost for our regular customers who are looking to try something different.”Her cookbook features 60 of her favourite family recipes.The recipes were inherited from her mother and passed down by her grandmother.“One unique aspect of Sri Lankan curry is they have a dark roasted curry power that is very different than the curries you will find in India. It is one of the main ingredients that makes our cuisine unique because it’s aromatic and has complex flavours.”Samarakoon-Amunugama spent 10 years at DND as a senior communications advisor at a Public Affairs Office in Vancouver between 2009 and 2018....

November 11th is a hallowed day marked in the hearts of Canadian Armed Forces members across the country. It is our chance to pay homage to veterans, such as yourself, who gave so much in their service to Canada.This Remembrance Day will be recognized differently than in year’s past; you will not see many uniformed members standing shoulder-to-shoulder at cenotaphs in our surrounding communities due to the COVID-19 pandemic. But know that each member of CFB Esquimalt will spend the day in reverence, regardless of where they pay their respects.This year we commemorated the 75th anniversary of the end of the Second World War, a battle that raged for six terrible years and saw over one million brave Canadians serve across the world. For sailors, this year also marks the 75th anniversary of the victory of the Battle of the Atlantic, the longest campaign of that war. During the conflict, 70,000 allied sailors, merchant mariners, and airmen lost their lives at sea, including 4,600 brave Canadians.In an effort to keep our veterans and community members safe, and to preserve the health and safety of our Forces members, we will spend November 11th observing Remembrance Day remotely and thinking about our esteemed veterans. Although we will not be with you, you will be with us, as we hold you in our thoughts with gratitude for your service and for the ultimate sacrifice of those we lost.We will never take for granted the hard-earned freedom for which you fought as we continue to maintain the peace and security you so valiantly won.On this Remembrance Day, and all days, I thank you for your service. Lest we forget.Yours truly,S. Sader Captain (N) Commander CFB Esquimalt––––

Peter MallettStaff Writer––A new digital health care application launches today at CFB Esquimalt and will add secure, discreet clinical video encounters for military members.The downloadable mobile application entitled ‘REACT’ is an effort by Canadian Forces Health Services Centre (Pacific) to improve existing doctor-patient virtual care. REACT will be used locally at CFB Esquimalt and CFB Borden, with plans to make the application available across the Canadian Armed Forces in the future. Both Mental Health and Primary Care clinicians will use REACT as part of its virtual care initiative to reduce in-person encounters during the COVID-19 pandemic. The rollout of the encrypted and secure digital application came on the heels of last week’s Canadian Patient Safety Week (Oct. 26 to 30) by the CF H Services Group. The overall aim of REACT falls in line with the mandate to expand virtual care options to ensure military members have access to the best health care possible, said MGen Marc Bilodeau, CAF Surgeon General. “The dispersed posture we have been forced to adopt since the beginning of the pandemic has required the CAF health care team to rapidly learn to incorporate different means of communication into how we work with members to improve their health,” he said. “This expanded virtual care capability is here to stay.” After booking virtual care appointments through their designated Integrated Health Care Team, Esquimalt-based members will receive an email detailing how to connect to REACT. The application takes approximately 15 minutes to set up and can be used directly through the desktop version from the Google Chrome Web Browser or REACT’s app that can be downloaded to mobile devices. Connection to the service is much better on Wi Fi then cellular data. LCdr Ian Kirby, CF H Svcs (P) Base Surgeon and Medical Director, has been working with...

2Lt Jamie Boparai Base Administration––Family history is what led Lt(N) Colin Winkler to take the Canadian Oath of Allegiance upon joining the Canadian Armed Forces in 1988. His father joined in 1964 and his Grandfather served in the Second World War as an Artilleryman.The journey to his current position as Base Personnel Services Officer began as a non-commissioned member cook. Diligence, competency, and leadership qualities aided in his promotions all the way to Chief Petty Officer First Class.A few years ago, he was afforded the opportunity to join the Special Requirement Commissioning Plan. “SRCP allows for Chief Petty Officers to commission [into the officer rank] and fill vacant positions within the service. This is a specialized program used to keep the core knowledge of the military intact while allowing CPOs to continue to serve as Officers. SRCP does not come with a formal trade, but rather employment into specialized positions,” he explains. His leadership role model is Capt(N) Julian Elbourne, who was his commanding officer in HMCS Protecteur, and his command team, during the Feb. 27, 2014, fire aboard the ship while off the coast of Hawaii. “I was the Logistics CPO2 at the time, and that was when I realized if I was to ever become a CPO1, they were the type of leaders I wanted to be like. Their leadership shined in a time of danger and uncertainty.”His role on the ship was to ensure the attack teams and the ship’s company were sustained with food and water. “We didn’t even have a working galley,” he says. Food was cooked using old barbecues and an apartment-style stove that was in the commanding officer’s pantry. “I also made sure people had places to sleep because of the damage. There were 219 people aboard at the time.”A good leader, he adds,...

Peter MallettStaff Writer––Ill and injured Canadian Armed Forces members and veterans have not been forgotten during the pandemic. Soldier On programs resumed on the West Coast this month with two morale-building events, rounds of golf at Highlands Pacific Golf and a cycling clinic at the University of Victoria.   The goal is to help them adapt and overcome both physical injuries through participation in sports and physical fitness activities.Much of the events were halted in March with the onset of COVID-19, but with strictly enforced health and safety protocols these two events were able to happen. “The pandemic has provided far fewer opportunities to let participants experience physical activity and social interaction as part of their recovery from their injuries,” said Joe Kiraly, Senior Manager of Soldier On.  “It is great to be able to resume some of our operations again, albeit on a reduced scale. All of our events going forward will also adhere to strict COVID-19 precautions that will provide a safe environment for participants.”Dana’s Story The return of the Oct. 11 Soldier On cycling clinic was a big relief for 2Lt (Retired) Dana Batho. The former Intelligence Officer with the Royal Canadian Air Force suffered serious back and neck injuries during a training accident seven years ago and has lived with intense paint ever since. Prior to her injury she enjoyed gymnastics, Highland dancing and weightlifting, but says none of that is possible now. Since her pain is likely permanent, and modern medicine has failed to alleviate her condition, she says the relief from her woes has come through cycling.With assistance from Soldier On, she has acquired a custom-designed, three-wheeled recumbent bicycle. On days when the pain isn’t too intense she and her service dog Coco go for long bicycle rides on the Capital Regional District’s expansive recreational...

[caption id="attachment_24698" align="aligncenter" width="595"] Naval reservists on the bridge of PCT Orca during their first training sail of the year. Photo by A/SLt Alistair Hirst, HMCS Malahat[/caption]SLt Donald DenHMCS Malahat––With black cloth masks wrapped tightly around their nose and mouth, 20 naval reservists from HMCS Malahat climbed aboard the Patrol Craft Training vessel Orca on Oct. 10.The COVID-19 environment did not deter them from accomplishing their first Orca-class day sail of the training year.Masks remained on throughout the day as they cycled through training exercises. “At-sea training opportunities are critical to ensuring members of Malahat maintain their sea-going capability,” said Lieutenant (N) Michael Liu, Malahat’s Training Officer. “Nothing can replace training on a ship at sea.”The goal of the day was to refresh basic ship and Rigid Hull Inflatable Boat (RHIB) operations, with the aim of increasing levels of complexity for future Orca sails.The day started with a person overboard drill, which had a dummy tossed into the water followed by the launching of the ship’s Zodiac and crew for the rescue.The reservists took a break with a boxed lunch taken in shifts to maintain appropriate physical distancing.Routine training quickly turned into a live event when Malahat’s RHIB became dead in the water near the Orca. The Zodiac with a small crew was sent to the RHIB to with repairs. Once in working order, the RHIB headed back to Patrol Craft Training Unit for further inspection.“The unplanned mechanical issue with the RHIB during the sail provided an excellent opportunity for members to utilize their training during a real event,” said Commander Cameron Miller, Malahat’s Commanding Officer. “Orca sails like this one provide members of HMCS Malahat with much-needed training and experience, and that is just as important now in the current COVID-19 environment.”With the winds increasing the sea state, Orca and...

[caption id="attachment_24695" align="aligncenter" width="594"] Another NFS(P) crew get set to sail in Sail Training Vessel Goldcrest for the regatta.[/caption]Peter MallettStaff Writer––Two student-crewed navy training vessels tested their skills over the Oct. 17 weekend in the first and only regatta of the season.STV Tuna and STV Goldcrest joined 30 crews of 10 sailors in the Cascadian Convoy sailing challenge hosted by the Canadian Forces Sailing Association (CFSA).Sailboats competed in five races of varying lengths off Vancouver Island: a long distance race from Esquimalt to Port Renfrew; a medium distance sail between Sooke and Victoria Harbour, and back to Esquimalt; a short distance race from Esquimalt to Race Rocks and back; a cruiser class race from Esquimalt to Victoria; and a U.S. long distance shadow race with sailors sailing from Port Angeles, Washington, to Neah Bay. The race was given the go ahead in August from British Columbia’s provincial body of sport ViaSport, which allowed some sporting competitions involving teams to a maximum of 10 people to resume. Competitors followed the strict health and safety protocol mandated by the province.“The event proved that sailing is a perfect fit for physical distancing because teams compete in isolated bubbles on their vessels. With proper care and precautions by team members they can sail safely and still have fun,” said LCdr Chris Maier, CFSA Commodore. “In the end, the CFSA became a leader in the Pacific Northwest in learning how to sail in a COVID-19 world.”STV Tuna with its novice crew from Naval Fleet School Pacific tackled the medium distance race. Under the leadership of skipper Lt(N) Konnor Brett, they eked out a seventh place finish in a field of eight. Although they had a favourable start in the race, their standing slipped when they rounded Race Rocks.“That moment was the true equalizer as we...

[caption id="attachment_24692" align="aligncenter" width="595"] The virtual tour of HMCS Harry DeWolf included the machinery control and engine rooms. Photo by Cpl David Veldman, CAF Photo[/caption]Trident Newspaper––The annual San Francisco Fleet Week took its event online for 2020, offering a number of virtual experiences in lieu of the in-person tours and demonstrations that normally take place. Among the offerings were virtual ship tours, and the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) was happy to help out its allies. The Canadian navy provided virtual video tours of Halifax-class frigates HMCS Toronto and HMCS Calgary, as well as its newest ship and first Arctic and Offshore Patrol Ship, HMCS Harry DeWolf.SLt Joe Cheng took viewers through the ship’s departments, including the all-ranks cafeteria, machinery control and engine rooms, sailors’ cabins, enclosed cable deck, bridge, and gun deck. The goal was to give our allies a brief introduction to the Harry DeWolf class and the capabilities the new ships will bring to the RCN in the coming years.“She has a lot of capabilities and potential and we’re looking forward to showing that off at ports in person,” SLt Cheng said.Similar videos were produced to introduce viewers to Toronto and Calgary.Canada’s navy has a history of sending ships to take part in San Francisco’s Fleet Week, which has been held annually most years since 1981. Most recently, HMCS Vancouver was present for the 2018 edition, while HMCS Winnipeg took part in 2017.RAdm Bette Bolivar, USN Region Southwest Commander, thanked the Canadian ships for taking part in the event, and said she looked forward to having Canadian allies working alongside her people in person in the near future.“There’s fun and celebration, but Fleet Week is also about forming and maintaining partnerships, and this is a wonderful example of that.”––––

[caption id="attachment_24689" align="aligncenter" width="594"] HMCS Windsor was taken out of the submarine shed at D294 and lowered into Halifax Harbour on Aug. 7.[/caption]Ryan MelansonTrident Newspaper––Excitement is building among HMCS Windsor personnel as the submarine wraps up the last phase of its Transitional Docking Work Period (TDWP) and gets set to sail for the first time since 2018.“The closer we get to it, the more and more excited my crew and I are becoming. Being alongside isn’t ideal for any sailor, so we’re all chomping at the bit to get back to sea,” said LCdr Drew Matheson, Windsor’s Commanding Officer.Windsor entered the submarine shed at HMC Dockyard  in Halifax in October 2018 to begin its Transitional Docking Work Period (TDWP), undergoing deep maintenance work along with modernization upgrades over the last two years.The TWDP’s purpose is to set the Victoria-class sub on its new operational cycle, which is planned to be nine years of service followed by three years of maintenance, a change from the previous six year/two year cycle. In order for that to happen, Windsor was required to go “back up on the blocks,” as LCdr Matheson describes it.The two-pronged TDWP approach involved work on key pieces of maintenance to fix up the wear and tear from a busy sailing period from 2014 to 2018. That period saw Windsor deployed to Europe multiple times, with participation in exercises Joint Warrior and Trident Juncture. The sub also spent more than three months operating in the Mediterranean in 2018, a first for the Victoria-class fleet.On top of the maintenance and repairs, the boat also underwent capability upgrades, receiving the new state-of-the-art BQQ-10 sonar, as well as an overhaul to its weapons systems. Windsor will now be armed with the Mk 48 MOD 7AT torpedo, an upgrade from the previous Mk 48...

[caption id="attachment_24686" align="aligncenter" width="595"] Left to right back row: MCpl Erin Crawford, S1 Sarah Kopala, Pte Ashley Smith, S1 Natacha Gilbert, MS Amver Cinco, S1 Valerie LeClair, S3 Amanda Harding, S1 Kayleigh Ferris, S1 Marjorie Gauvin, MS Cherish Halbert, and Cpl Jennifer Rose. Left to right front row: S1 Amy Tucker, S1 Tammy Hudak, MS Sabrina Wyns, S2 Drew Phelps, S2 Hyang Mi Bae, S2 Frances Espinoza, MS Karoline Rajotte, and S3 Lorraine Cléroux.[/caption]Captain Chelsea DubeauHMCS Winnipeg––It’s Sunday, Oct. 4, day 63 of HMCS Winnipeg’s deployment. A really exciting thing is planned for the afternoon - a replenishment at sea (RAS).But not just any RAS, which is usually driven by the ship’s Commanding Officer, Commander Mike Stefanson. Today, Lieutenant Commander Amber Comisso, the ship’s Executive Officer, is driving the evolution. Many years ago, a female Executive Officer would have been unthinkable. But in today’s navy, Winnipeg has an inventory of female leaders. The key positions held by the women on board are the Navigating Officer, Operations Officer, Operations Room Officer, and Above Water Warfare Officer. Winnipeg also boasts six female Non-Commissioned Officers, who are formidable in their presence amongst the Chiefs and Petty Officers. Plus, there are so many female non-commissioned junior rank members they had to be moved to a larger mess given the high numbers on board. Each of them fill critical, mission-essential roles on the warship. They are operators and naval communicators; supply, marine, medical, and imagery technicians; administrators, aircrew, cooks, and stewards.So why mention them at all? October is Women’s History Month.“It is important to celebrate women’s achievements so our grandmothers, who did not have the same opportunities, can see how far we’ve come,” says Lt(N) Kass O’Rourke, Above Water Warfare Officer. “It is a celebration of the opportunities we have seized and continue to fight...

Did you know that every year, the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) and the Department of National Defence (DND) supports Veterans’ Week activities with the National Veterans Week Speakers Program? It won’t come as a surprise that, as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the program will be different this year. Instead of the typical in-person events, members of the CAF will share their stories of Remembrance in a series of videos geared to various audiences and age levels, which schools, companies, and organizations can screen as part of their Veterans Week activities.If you would like to incorporate these videos in your Remembrance Day activities – or even if you’d just like to watch them yourself – please submit a request through the National Veterans Week Speakers Program website at http://Canada.ca/caf-veterans-week-speakers. Videos are available now and will also be posted the week prior to Veterans Week on social media channels, including Facebook (Canadian Armed Forces) and Twitter (@CanadianForces). Questions about our program should be directed to the Maritime Forces Pacific local coordinator CPO2 Brayden Wise, brayden.wise@forces.gc.ca. Veterans Affairs Canada also offers an array of free, bilingual learning resources available in electronic and print formats to help Canadians remember the importance of honouring Canada’s veterans. Materials can be ordered directly at www. veterans.gc.ca/educators––––

[caption id="attachment_24673" align="aligncenter" width="595"] Military members past and present, following health and safety protocols, gathered at the B.C. Aviation Museum for a ceremony to commemorate the 100th anniversary of first trans-Canada flight. Photo by CFB Esquimalt Base Public Affairs[/caption]Peter MallettStaff Writer––A small ceremony at Victoria International Airport on Oct. 21 marked a monumental moment in Canadian aviation history. The commemorative event at the B.C. Aviation Museum was the final event celebrating the 100th anniversary of the first trans-Canada flight. The historical flight involved a group of military aviators completing a 10-day journey through relays from Dartmouth, N.S., to Vancouver, B.C., making multiple planned and unplanned stops along the way. Retired navy Captain Kevin Carlé helped organize the commemorative ceremony in Victoria. Due to COVID-19 physical distancing measures, the event could only involve 25 military personnel, veterans, and museum staff. Those attending the ceremony included Capt(N) Sam Sader, Base Commander, and military personnel from 443 Maritime Helicopter Squadron.“Hosting this event was a great opportunity to pay tribute to this fantastic but relatively unknown historic event,” said Carlé. “Communication and transportation helped build this country and the whole purpose of this flight was to convince people, especially politicians of the day of the importance of the robust aviation capability of Canada.”Their JourneyThe first legs of the flight used seaplanes and flying boats donated by the British Air Ministry and took off from the Canadian Air Board Station (present day 12 Wing Shearwater) on Oct. 7, 1920, at 8 a.m. The final legs of the journey from Winnipeg to the West Coast commenced in the early morning hours of Oct. 11 and involved the relay of three DeHavilland DH 9A single engine biplanes. After taking off from Calgary on Oct. 13 and crossing the Rocky Mountains, the flight crew touched down at Minoru...

2Lt Jamie Boparai Base Administration––Gail Whitcroft isn’t just your first point of contact at the Base Personnel Selection Office (BPSO). As the Administrative Assistant to the unit, she is the one that ensures your file ends up in the right hands. One example that showcases her dedication to the military member was during active posting season 2019. A military member was being posted to CFB Trenton and had applied for the Special Commissioning Plan. Whitcroft arranged for an immediate interview so his file would be complete before departure. Despite the member’s posting and subsequent application file transfer to Trenton, she remained the member’s point of contact. There was a significant amount of administration involved as the member required a medical waiver approval before selection. “My favourite part of my job is interacting with members and seeing them be successful. I really enjoy when they return to tell me they succeeded in reaching their goals,” she says. Her connection to the navy runs deep, even though she was never a member herself. “My husband worked for DND for 36 years at Base Construction Engineering, now called Real Property Operations. He was a carpenter by trade and worked in every building on the base.” Whitcroft was also employed with DND 10 years ago in a casual position before joining Service Canada. She spent eight years as the Program Service and Delivery Clerk, specializing in finance and accounting. Currently, for the last two years, she has been working at the BPSO and is the only civilian employee.“The biggest challenge in working with service members is the constant turnover. When new staff arrive they often have their own expectations on how things should be run. You have to be prepared for constant change in my position and just roll with it. This year my...

[caption id="attachment_24658" align="aligncenter" width="596"] A member from HMCS Radisson hoists the Commordore’s Cup.[/caption]A/SLt Amélie BergeronUPAR HMCS Radisson––The Commodore’s Cup and the Sailor of the Year Trophy have been awarded to the same naval reserve division of the Royal Canadian Navy - HMCS Radisson.The Commodore’s Cup was introduced in 2016 to recognize the Naval Reserve Division that demonstrated the best overall performance and contributed most to the fulfillment of the Naval Reserve mission within the Royal Canadian Navy. Radisson won the 2019–2020 Commodore’s Cup for conducting extraordinary outreach in the Mauricie region of Quebec, for the support and participation in Operation Lentus 2019, for a strong promotion of physical fitness and mental health, and for the undeniable pride demonstrated by the ship’s company.“This year’s award goes to a young and dynamic ship’s company,” said Commodore Mike Hopper, Commander Naval Reserve. “The Mauricie region can be proud of its sailors, since their excellence shines through from coast to coast to coast.”Sailor of the YearSailor First Class (S1) Frédérique Poitras, Boatswain, was named Naval Reserve Sailor of the Year. This honour is awarded to the sailor who has demonstrated exceptional performance, as well as a number of outstanding personal and professional qualities.As soon as she joined HMCS Radisson in 2016, S1 Poitras stood out as a leader. Thanks to her dedication and charisma, she has created a lasting team synergy and promotes respect and dynamism among her peers. In summer 2019, when S1 Poitras was employed during a partnership with the Canadian Coast Guard, she responded to a search and rescue operation. Her expertise was essential to this rescue as she found an unconscious individual drifting on the St. Lawrence River. After recovering the individual, she performed cardiopulmonary resuscitation for 30 to 45 minutes, until the paramedics arrived. “As soon as Sailor First Class Poitras...

[caption id="attachment_24654" align="aligncenter" width="595"] Jamie Quinte of Transport Electrical Mechanical Engineering operates one of the department’s new Liebherr cranes. Photo by Chris Shipway[/caption]Peter MallettStaff Writer––Operating a crane of any sort requires in-depth training followed by industry certifications. So, with the recent delivery of two mobile Liebherr 70-tonne cranes, and another one on its way, driver operators at Transport Electrical Mechanical Engineering (TEME) have to be schooled before getting behind the controls. Nine level 6 machine driver operators, who work with the Special Purpose Vehicles section at TEME, just completed the required two five-day training sessions delivered by an instructor from the German-based manufacturer Liebherr. They also received another four-day course for hook-tender certification that was delivered by an instructor from Big Foot Crane Academy located in Abbotsford, B.C. Next in line for training are 10 TEME employees who work as hook tenders on crane operations. The new cranes, which are attached to large trucks, will be used for loading and unloading heavy equipment and other materials on and off the trucks and out of warehouses, as well as loading ammunition on warships. “The training enables our workers to be fully prepared to handle new challenges of loading much heavier and cumbersome equipment required for delivery in the future fleet, including the RCN’s new Arctic and Offshore Patrol Ships,” said Chris Shipway, TEME Supervisor, Special Purpose Vehicles.The new cranes replace two older intermediate construction-style 35 and 40 tonne cranes that have reached the end of their lifecycle. The Liebherr Crane has a maximum load capacity of 70 tonnes and a 50-metre telescopic boom coupled with a range of reliable, modern technology. “Having a larger weight capacity and more manoeuvrability is a huge deal when you are lifting and moving a 5,000 or 6,000 pound item,” says Shipway. “It will enable our crews to reach the other side of a ship when it is alongside without spinning the ship around, improving our efficiency and readiness to support the fleet.” Two cranes will reside in...

[caption id="attachment_24647" align="aligncenter" width="594"] WO Fred Trainor, of Ottawa’s 764 Squadron, recently contributed his painting entitled ‘Shipwrecked’ to the Steel Spirit art project. Steel Spirit was founded by military wife and former paramedic Barbara Brown in 2017. Steel Spirit showcases the artwork of currently serving and former military members and first responders.[/caption]Peter MallettStaff Writer––Artist Fred Trainor says each brush stroke he applies to a canvass offers him a path to healing. The 58-year-old Ottawa Valley resident, and currently serving Warrant Officer, was deployed to war-torn Afghanistan in 2005 and again in 2007. Those deployments led to an operational stress injury that remains to this day. He has also dealt with the death of his father and two uncles from cancer, and overcame his own battle with cancer, losing a kidney in the fight. “Creating art is the only way I can really deal with my injury because I’m able to stay calm and it helps me focus.”He paints in a large, dome-shaped studio inside his Manotick home, which he calls his “private retreat.” Portraits, farms, landscapes ablaze with fall colours, and abandoned relics are all part of his repertoire, in both paint and pencil. He treats every day and every painting as a “God-given” gift. His latest work Shipwrecked speaks to that. “Shipwrecked depicts a trawler that has seen a lot of sea time and has been left on the shore to rust away. To me, it’s a metaphor for life. As you slowly get old, slow down, and then finally stop, you drift back into nature as part of God’s creation.” His sister and Bob Ross were the ones who sparked his creativity. At age 12, his sister gave him two instructionla art school books, which he still has, that showcased how to draw and paint. Further inspiration came after...

[caption id="attachment_24644" align="aligncenter" width="594"] Sailor Third Class Recruit Kofi Asumadu completes the low wire combat crawl obstacle during the Confidence Course as part of BMQ training on Oct. 5. Photo by S1 Victoria Ioganov, MARPAC Imaging Services[/caption]Anna MuseliusNPTG––Naval Personnel and Training Group (NPTG) planners, Training Development Centres, Fleet Schools, and instructors on both coasts have been busy this fall conducting Basic Military Qualification (BMQ) courses to Regular Force naval recruits. The goal is to safely train the navy’s newest sailors through a COVID-19 persistent environment. BMQs are normally run through the Canadian Forces Leadership and Recruit School in St. Jean-sur-Richelieu, Québec. However, in order to increase the Armed Forces, meet the personnel requirements of the Fleet, and ease the pressure on the Leadership and Recruit School who also train Army and Air Force personnel, a de-centralized BMQs was developed. It is an innovative measure to mitigate risk while delivering Regular Force BMQ serials for the navy in a safe, carefully planned, deliberate manner abiding by directed protective health measures. Planning for de-centralized BMQs started almost immediately after the initial operational pause began in March in anticipation of an eventual order to resume training. That order was issued in June by the Chief of Defence Staff and then by Vice-Admiral Art McDonald, Commander Royal Canadian Navy. Once the warning order was received, and regional pre-conditions were deemed to have been met on both coasts, de-centralized BMQ serials began within 30 days following a green light from Capt(N) Jason Boyd, Commander NPTG.Upon arrival at each base, recruits were screened for symptoms of the COVID-19, and for the first 14 days a maximum of four cohorts of 10 candidates were confined to the base and closely monitored as part of an initial isolation period to mitigate risk and prevent the possible spread of...

Peter MallettStaff Writer––This year’s battle against seasonal flu has commenced at the base with vaccine clinics underway for military members. To kick off flu shot season, senior leadership rolled up their sleeves and took the shot last week from a Canadian Forces Health Services Centre (Pacific) member. “I am getting my flu shot because it minimizes the risks to my family at home and my Defence Team family in the workplace,” said Capt(N) Sam Sader, Base Commander. “My flu shot will protect the people I care about.”The Canadian Armed Forces Surgeon General, MajGen Marc Bilodeau recently sounded the alarm over the concern of a twindemic, an overlap of flu season with a second wave of COVID-19 this fall and winter. “In light of COVID-19 precautions, any respiratory infection such as the flu could lead to your family having to stay home from work,” said Maj-Gen Bilodeau in a statement.Registered Nurse Nancy Gilmour, Community Health and Immunizations branch of CF HSC(P), echoes MGen Bilodeau’s concerns about the extraordinary urgency of being vaccinated with this year’s flu shot. “Not only will the flu shot help keep you and your family members healthy, it will reduce the burden on our health care system by ensuring hospitals are not trying to care for flu and COVID-19 patients at the same time. By reducing the amount of respiratory viruses in circulation, it will reduce the requirement for limited testing capability for COVID-19.”Updated guidance by Health Canada recommends Canadians six months and older be vaccinated. Military members experiencing symptoms of the flu, whether they have been vaccinated or not, are urged to contact their Integrated Health Team; civilians should contact their health care provider. Individual appointments and spots for this year’s travelling flu shot clinics are available from Oct. 21 to Nov. 19, and must be...

[caption id="attachment_24630" align="aligncenter" width="595"] S1 Sheldon Hawley conducts maintenance on valves in the Forward Auxiliary Machine Room.[/caption]Captain Chelsea DubeauHMCS Winnipeg––It’s a Sunday morning in HMCS Winnipeg, one of the best days of the week.The ship is in transit, deployed on Operation Projection, and best of all there will be ice cream later.“Marine Systems Engineering Officer speaking,” starts the pipe. “For the information of the ship’s company, showers remain out of bounds. Mini-laundry also remains out of bounds.”The problem is with the ship’s water-making capability, the Shipboard Reverse Osmosis Desalinator (SROD) system. In fact, both the port and starboard side SRODs are out of commission.You can almost feel the collective groan of the ship’s company as the day suddenly takes a sour turn. Showers have been out of bounds for over 24 hours and people are refraining from working out for obvious reasons. Signs have been posted throughout the ship and water usage is to be kept minimal.The Marine Systems Engineering (MSE) department on board has their work cut out for them.  They deal with a variety of systems that sailors often don’t think about unless it breaks - such as the water-making system. They also deal with propulsion, domestics (such as sinks), and power generation.Since this is the Royal Canadian Navy’s first deployment to the Asia Pacific region in the COVID-19 environment, planning, including what to bring such as spare pieces of equipment, could only go so far.Normally, ships at sea are assisted by Forward Logistics Services (FLS), a small team that goes port-to-port in advance of deployed ships and facilitates procurement of needed supplies, equipment, and parts. This is not the case for Winnipeg because of the pandemic that has created travel restrictions.“The travel for the FLS team would have put those members at higher risk of contracting the...

2Lt Jamie Boparai Base Administration––To find Master Corporal Kim Draper, one has to take the stairwell into the basement of Nelles Block. With a team of two military and two civilian members, she manages Nelles Block Stores, a supply warehouse that supports the residents and employees that live and work in the accommodations building. They procure, store, and distribute everything from linen and mattresses, to tables and chairs, clocks and lamps, and pens and pencils.“It takes a special type of person to conduct the job requirements of Block Stores. You have to be happy, friendly, and courteous to customers. What I like most about my job is the people. Not just my co-workers, but the residents as well.” Nelles Block houses primarily junior non-commissioned members coming straight from basic training at the Canadian Forces Leadership and Recruit School to take their trade training at Naval Fleet School (Pacific). “When members arrive they are required to sign for all items in their room and confirm that they are in a suitable condition,” explains MCpl Draper.If there is a problem or if anything is missing her team will replace the item and procure more if supply runs short. Weekly linen exchange is also a function of Block Stores. Her path to Nelles Block began in 2005 when she joined the Canadian Armed Forces  as a Supply Technician in the army. Supply Techs are a purple trade, meaning they can be employed within the land, sea, and air operating environments despite the element they belong to. In many cases, it is essential to gain experience in all three environments for professional development and career progression purposes. MCpl Draper achieved this goal with her posting to CFB Esquimalt in 2018.Upon arrival to CFB Esquimalt, she was posted to Base Logistics in a customer service...

[caption id="attachment_24618" align="aligncenter" width="594"] Cpl Michael Smith and team at CFB Esquimalt Fire and Rescue headquarters.[/caption]Peter MallettStaff Writer––Tour de Rock rider Cpl Michael Smith says he was taken aback by donor generosity in this year’s fundraiser for children with cancer.The 29-year-old works in the Court Section of CFB Esquimalt’s Military Police Unit. He was part of a 19-person police and first-responder cycling team that pedaled a combined distance of 1,200 kilometres from Port Alice to Victoria between Sept. 23 and Oct. 2. Tour de Rock provides funding for paediatric cancer research and support programs through the Canadian Cancer Society while also raising awareness about the plight of affected children and their families. This year’s fundraising effort fell short of last year’s total of $1.2 million due to COVID-19 restrictions, but still reached its $600,000 fundraising goal. Riders set individual fundraising targets and this year Cpl Smith exceeded his $5,000 goal by $220. “Every year I am blown away by the generosity of people on Vancouver Island and at CFB Esquimalt. This year’s Tour de Rock was no different even despite the COVID-19 pandemic,” says Cpl Smith.The tour made fewer stops with much smaller gatherings of 50 people or less. “I understand these are tough times for everyone but I’m  glad to see our supporters realize that cancer doesn’t take a break, even for COVID-19,” said Cpl Smith. The tour made a stop on the last day at CFB Esquimalt Fire and Rescue headquarters to a COVID-19 scaled-back heroes welcome. Cpl Smith and the others riders were greeted by members of Esquimalt’s military police unit and fire department staff. ‘Game On’ For Golf CFB Esquimalt’s Military Police Unit continue their ongoing fundraising for the Military Police Fund for Blind Children with their upcoming golf tournament. A maximum of 60 participants will adhere...

Peter MallettStaff Writer––A revamped contest by CANEX launches later this month and hopes to catch the attention of gaming enthusiasts. Game On CANEX kicks off on Oct. 22 and is open to all Canadian Armed Forces members. The contest offers four separate sweepstakes for four consecutive weeks with a total of $4,000 in prizes up for grabs. In the first week, a HyperX Gaming Bundle and an AndaSeat Dark Knight Gaming Chair are the two featured prizes. The following week’s prizes include two Oculus VR headsets, a new Xbox Series X, and a new Sony Playstation 5. This year’s event replaces the CANEX Championship Gaming Series that ran from 2016 to 2019. That Gaming Series attracted about 400 participants and viewers each year with military members putting their gaming skills to the test against each other. Michael Prouty, CANEX Segment Marketing Manager, says earlier this year the decision was made to change the format to offer a wider appeal to all CAF community gamers. While those who participated in or watched the live stream of the tournament had a great time, Prouty points out the original game series spoke to a very small portion of the entire CANEX gaming community, which he estimates to be approximately 30,000 people.“Based on these numbers, we decided to revamp the format and appeal to a much larger population of gamers in the CAF community with Game On CANEX,” explained Prouty. “Given the fact that these prizes will be in high demand for the holiday shopping season, I am confident the participation numbers will be significant.” To enter the contest, applicants must provide their first and last name, email address, and their CF1 number in an entry form found on the soon-to-be-launched event webpage www.gameoncanex.com.A full list of prizes for each draw will also be on the website. Registered CAF members can earn more entries for each weekly prize draw by completing different tasks. They will include following contest clues and answering trivia questions provided...

[caption id="attachment_24611" align="alignnone" width="595"] Yana Hempler holds a placard boasting her summer fund raising achievement.[/caption]Peter MallettStaff Writer––These days, Yana Hempler runs with a purpose.The former army reservist and long-distance runner has taken to the trails and streets of Victoria to raise money for the Victoria Hospitals Foundation to help expand and enhance the critical care capacity, now and into the future.What started out as a summer challenge of 12 marathons in 12 days, raising $15,000, has flourished into a $500,000 personal year-long fundraising challenge.“With the [COVID-19] pandemic, our healthcare heroes have been working even harder and longer and I cannot thank them enough. This fundraiser is my way of showing support for the amazing work they do and for the many lives they’ve saved, including one of my best friends back in 2019.”She will run one additional marathon – 42.2 kilometres – for every $15,000 raised. By this time next year, she hopes to complete 33 marathons, a total of 1,406 kilometres. “The most important thing through all of this is to pace myself properly during my runs to avoid burnout,” said Hempler, 30.While she is mentally determined, she admits running so many marathons can lead to physical fatigue. After completing the 12 marathons between July 24 and Aug. 4, she has remained injury free so far and says proper training and preparation has made a big difference.It’s not the first time she has raised money for charity.In 2013 she ran 495 kilometres from Port Hardy to Mile 0 in support of three local charities - the Mustard Seed Food Bank, Recreation Integration Victoria, and the B.C. SPCA. In 2015, she and a friend ran from Duncan to Victoria in another fundraiser. A year later, she launched her charity Run4Dreams to provide financial assistance for sick children and their families through an online virtual race that involved 32 competitors in four Canadian cities.Hempler currently works in the supply chain for aircraft manufacturer Viking Air but previously spent three years as a logistics...

[caption id="attachment_24608" align="aligncenter" width="595"] Behni Moosavi-Shalmani[/caption]Peter MallettStaff Writer––Art instructor Behni Moosavi-Shalmani believes everyone is bestowed with creativity. They just need to give themselves the opportunity to blossom.She is the course provider of ‘Paint It!’ for the Personnel Support Programs recreation department. “I can say with confidence that everyone who leaves one of my classes, leaves with a big smile on their face,” she says. “I am trying to reach out to the people who have never painted before and don’t believe they can do it.”Her easy going, no pressure and relaxing atmosphere in the class enables first-time painters to be brave with what they paint and how they paint it. “When an artist begins to paint they may struggle at first and find parts of a painting they are not happy with; this is exactly comparable to the struggles we face in real life” explains Behni. “These are experiences everyone goes through, so the big thing to do is take a step back and realize mistakes can be corrected and covered. There is always a chance to change. The important thing is to relax and let your mind and thoughts guide what you create.” Moosavi-Shalmani, 37, is a Military Family Resource Centre (MFRC) employee and Personnel Support Programs (PSP) contractor. She is a military spouse, married to Cpl Hamid Anghaei who works for Base Logistics distribution centre in Colwood. The couple have two children and live in Langford. “When I’m working at CFB Esquimalt it’s like being at home and being with family,” she says. “I live the military lifestyle, so I feel comfortable with its people and love to work with them.”She learned art skills in a specialized high school art program while growing up in Iran. Then she earned a Bachelor of Arts at the University of Tehran where she focussed on painting, sculpture, and photography. When she left Iran she had to leave much of her artwork behind. Over the years, she has developed a new portfolio...

Katelyn MooresBase PAO––It’s the end of an era for one of the oldest and largest Arbutus trees on base, but hopefully also a new beginning. The Arbutus tree located in the Dockyard is estimated to be over two hundred years old, but a recent risk assessment found it in deteriorating health, and that instability poses a significant hazard to both people passing by and nearby infrastructure.“A certified arborist has been monitoring the tree for about 20 years,” said Don Fenton, Contract Coordinator with Real Property Operation. “During the course of this monitoring program, signs of decline were identified and the tree has been pruned back many times to help reduce risk. The latest assessment completed this summer showed that greater intervention was now necessary.”The assessment identified a continuing decline in its health and a large stress fracture in the tree’s largest limb. To mitigate growing safety concerns, most of the Arbutus tree will be cut down this week; however, instead of cutting the tree down to ground level, the four large stems will be left approximately 10 to 15 feet above ground. This decision was made to increase the potential for the tree to re-sprout, but also to preserve a portion of the tree to commemorate the natural heritage of the Esquimalt Royal Canadian Navy National Historic Site. Likely here long before the first military facilities were built in the 1850s, the Arbutus tree has become a well-known fixture within Dockyard where it stands just outside building DY68. With a combined trunk measurement of 259 centimeters, the tree was named to the B.C. Big Tree Registry in 2000, and currently holds the second  highest “tree score” for Arbutus in the province. The ranking is based on several different measurements including height, diameter, and crown spread.Before the tree could be cut back,...

[caption id="attachment_24592" align="aligncenter" width="594"] A/SLt LeMesurier with the goods following Operation Sticky Bun.[/caption]A/SLt Emily GjosContributor––Chances are if you speak to any junior officer who completed their Naval Warfare Officer training in the Gulf Islands they will know what you mean by Sticky Bun Run.It is tradition for students on the sea phase of Naval Warfare Officer courses on the West Coast to plan, execute, and enjoy an expedition to a small bakery in Ladysmith, or occasionally in Lund, B.C.Both bakeries make amazing cinnamon buns, almost the size of a human head.It has beens months since the last trip to Ladysmith’s Old Town Bakery due to the pandemic.However, when training operations resumed last month, the words “Sticky Buns” were floated throughout the crews of three Orca Class Patrol Craft Training Unit vessels conducting Naval Warfare Officer training from Sept 8 to 17. The idea was met with excitement and skepticism; could they really pull off a sticky bun run in a pandemic environment? What precautions should they take to ensure the safety of the crews and community? With these questions top of mind, the students were tasked to plan and execute Operation Sticky Bun.The second last day of the sail was chosen, in part to limit contact with the public that could affect training outcomes, and to reward the crews for their hard work over the 10-day sail.A four-person team drawn from one of the three ships would deploy in the ship’s Zodiac, in masks, to collect the buns from the bakery and distribute to the two sister ships, ensuring the social bubbles formed within the ships were respected.With these precautions, the ships could ensure the safety of personnel and avoid impacting the safety of the Ladysmith community.As the Sticky Bun Run approached, another danger was on the horizon: smoke carried from...

[caption id="attachment_24589" align="aligncenter" width="595"] MS Chris Shepard is the first Marine Technician to qualify as a Senior Engineering Watch Keeper.[/caption]Peter MallettStaff Writer––A junior ranks sailor currently on board HMCS Regina has become the first in his trade to qualify as a Senior Engineering Watch Keeper.MS Chris Shepard is a Marine Technician. He achieved the noteworthy milestone, usually held by a Petty Officer or higher ranking sailor, Sept. 26 when he passed his final qualification examination during his ship’s return from Rim of the Pacific exercises. The 38-year-old joined the Royal Canadian Navy as an engineer 11 years ago and says the exam was easily the most stressful but rewarding of his career. “It’s definitely pretty exciting and felt like a huge weight was lifted off my shoulders now that I am finished with the qualification. Now I have something to look forward to and I am excited for the future as I move towards my goal of becoming a Chief Petty Officer.”The Marine Technician trade stood up in April 2017, replacing the three legacy trades of Marine Engineer, Marine Electrician, and Hull Technician. The consolidation of trades addressed the changing technology, crew models, and maintenance philosophies associated with the renewal of the fleet including the arrival of Arctic and Offshore Patrol Vessels. With the new certification comes new responsibilities. During his watch, he manages coordinating and controlling the propulsion of the ship, damage control, power generation, the distribution of equipment and systems to all modes of operation, and supervising the maintenance. “I am responsible for everything in the engineering plant that keeps the boat moving forward,” says MS Shepard. “It’s a huge responsibility that can’t be taken lightly because a mistake can seriously affect the safety of people’s lives.”The importance of his achievement was celebrated by his shipmates, his instructors...