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[caption id="attachment_21205" align="alignnone" width="592"] CPO1 Line Laurendeau of Canadian Fleet Pacific Operations poses for a selfie with NHL legend Marcel Dionne during the Gala Dinner.[/caption]Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~An invitation to represent the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) hockey program at the Hockey Canada Foundation 2019 Gala Dinner had Chief Petty Officer First Class Line Laurendeau mingling with her sport heroes.She was at Edmonton’s Rogers Place June 18 when former Canadian Olympic team member Jayna Hafford was inducted into the 2019 Order of Hockey in Canada. She also chatted with former members of the Olympic team Daneille Goyette and Cassie Campbell.A stand-out moment was meeting Shannon Szabados, who, in 2015, became the first female goaltender to record a shutout in a men’s professional league. Szabados achieved the feat while tending goal for the Columbus Cottonmouths in a game against the Huntsville Havoc of the Southern Hockey League.“I told her that she helped blaze a trail for women hockey players in the Canadian Armed Forces,” said CPO1 Laurendeau.A 47-year-old former goaltender, who played for the Women’s Esquimalt Tritons, CPO1 Laurendeau was also recognized during the evening as one of the founding members of the CAF women’s hockey program, and for her efforts in helping grow the women’s game.CPO1 Laurendeau grew up playing minor hockey on boy’s teams during the 1980s in her hometown of Saint-Jean-Port Joli, Que., because, she says, there were no girl’s hockey teams. When she joined the military, she saw the need to develop a women’s league at bases across Canada. The CAF women’s hockey league is now in its 20th year.   She says the growth of the women’s game wouldn’t have been possible without support from the chain of command over the years.“Without them we [women] wouldn’t have been able to do it, so they are also part of the success of the women’s game,” said CPO1 Laurendeau. “It’s the crest on the front of your jersey and not the name on the back that has become my philosophy...

[caption id="attachment_21199" align="alignnone" width="592"] Family and friends enjoy manoeuvres on board HMCS Winnipeg during the family day sail.[/caption]SLt Wilson Ho, HMCS Winnipeg ~With the sun shining and clear skies, HMCS Winnipeg welcomed over 121 friends and family to come aboard June 29 for a first-hand experience of what their loved ones do day-to-day at sea. The family and friends’ day sail was in conjunction with Winnipeg’s port visit in North Vancouver as part of the Canada Day celebrations. The day’s events were highlighted by a manoeuvring demonstration in Constance Bank, tours of the ship, and displays and demonstrations from the ship’s boarding party, dive, and firefighting teams. Crew and guests took full advantage of the beautiful weather with a flight deck barbecue before making final preparations to enter Vancouver Harbour. At the end of the sail Commander Mike Stefanson, Commanding Officer, had a few words for the departing guests. “Thank you for coming out and sailing with us today, and letting the sailors show you our home. I would also like to thank you for showing your commitment and continued support to the ship and the crew.”Canada DayIn celebration of Canada Day HMCS Winnipeg was open to tours in North Vancouver. Five thousand visitors were shown the upper decks and bridge of the ship. Additionally, members of Winnipeg supported the Canadian Forces Exhibit at Canada Place in Vancouver. Thousands of guests lined up for an interactive tour of the various capabilities of the Army, Navy, and Air Force, including demonstrations by the Winnipeg Naval Boarding Team. In the evening, Winnipeg held a Canada Day reception hosted by the ship’s Commanding Officer, Commander Mike Stefanson. Guests included the Minister of National Defence, Harjit Sajjan; Commander Canadian Fleet Pacific, Cmdre Angus Topshee; Honorary Captains (Navy) Anita Huberman, Queenie Choo, and Tung Chan; and...

[caption id="attachment_21196" align="alignnone" width="592"] Royal Air Force (RAF) Squadron Leader Archibald Stuart MacLaren and his crew aboard their Vickers Vulture used in their attempt to fly around the world in 1924.[/caption]Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~The granddaughter of a famous British aviation pioneer visited CFB Esquimalt’s Wardroom June 28 to see the iconic propeller from the Vickers Vulture aircraft used in his failed attempt to fly around the world 95 years ago. Vanessa Ascough, 70, travelled from her home in Devon, England, to Vancouver Island to give a presentation about her grandfather at the B.C. Aviation Museum in Sidney. She also went to the Officer’s Mess to see the giant four-blade pusher propeller located on the south facing wall.Few people know about its remarkable history. The propeller was given to the Royal Canadian Navy as a gift from Ascough’s grandfather, Royal Air Force (RAF) Squadron Leader Archibald Stuart MacLaren. It was part of the single-engine amphibious plane used by MacLaren and his two-man flight crew in a highly publicized international race to become the first nation to fly around the world. The propeller is precious to Ascough, but she is quick to point out the significance of the flight has been forgotten. As proof, she says the signatures of her grandfather and the two other crew members have not only faded but are covered by a large clock that was placed on the propeller at some point over the years. “I have no idea how that clock got on the propeller and the sad thing is it covers the autographs. It is part of aviation history and it is still marvellous after so many years.” Ascough, a former magazine editor at the University of Exeter, is writing a book about the flight to make certain her grandfather’s legacy is never forgotten. She is...

[caption id="attachment_21193" align="alignnone" width="592"] Lilian Harper Phibbs today and in 1945 at age 18.[/caption]Peter Mallett Staff Writer ~Lilian Harper Phibbs, a former member of the British Women’s Royal Naval Service (WRNS), has published her first book at age 93, and is donating proceeds from sales to benefit other military veterans.Memory Lane, A Love Story is an account of her romance in war-ravaged Britain during the Second World War. Harper Phibbs met the love of her life Murray on a packed dance floor on the eve of Victory Europe day. He was a member of the Canadian Royal Canadian Naval Volunteer Reserve, seconded as radar officer to HMS Trafalgar. The story is set in Britain during the final months of the war before Germany’s surrender. The narrative is structured around their personal diary entries and letters to each other. She began her writing project three years ago following the death of her husband for family history purposes and, in the process, it turned out to be therapeutic.The backdrop to the story is an embattled country enduring years of food rationing, nightly blackouts, deadly German air bombardments, and uncertainty of the war’s result – who would be the victor? Harper Phibbs opens a pathway to the past for the reader through vivid descriptions and details of her experiences, like the dormitory she shared with 30 women that came with strict rules, sparse amenities, and that overarching fear war brings about. Despite the stress of war, true love would blossom. The romance was ignited May 7, 1945, when they glimpsed each other on a crowded dance floor, and he made quick strides to ask her to dance.Woven between the growing relationship is the historical context of the time: the work of a Wren and a Royal Canadian Naval Volunteer Reserve sailor, the politics, and...

[caption id="attachment_21189" align="alignnone" width="593"] Base Commander, Capt(N) Sam Sader and Cdr (Retired) Peter Chance chat during an unveiling ceremony for the war medals of Cdr Ted Simmons at the CFB Esquimalt Naval and Military Museum on July 10. Photo by Peter Mallett, Lookout[/caption]Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~Seven medals that once belonged to Second World War hero Commander Edward ‘Ted’ Simmons have returned to his home province on short-term loan to CFB Esquimalt. The medals, including a Distinguished Service Order, Distinguished Service Cross, and a 1939-45 star, were unveiled at a ceremony at the CFB Esquimalt Naval and Military Museum on July 10. Base Commander, Captain (Navy) Sam Sader presided over the ceremony, and Second World War veteran and Battle of the Atlantic survivor, 98-year-old Commander (Retired) Peter Chance was the special guest of honour. The two men pulled away a black curtain revealing the glistening and freshly polished medals inside a cubed glass display case. They are now the focal point of the museum’s new HMCS Beacon Hill exhibit celebrating the River Class frigate and its daring commander Simmons.Simmons was the most highly-decorated member of the Royal Canadian Naval Volunteer Reserve during the Battle of the Atlantic. His most notable heroics include the thwarting of a German U-Boat attack and boarding and later sinking the submarine once he acquired its code books, exploits which are featured prominently in the museum’s exhibit. “Simmons was an ordinary man who rose to the challenge and made an extraordinary impact during the Second World War,” said Capt(N) Sader.  “We are truly honoured to be able to display his medals and it’s great to have the decorations earned here with us today.”Chance, who was attending the event on behalf of the Naval Association of Canada – Vancouver Island, wore his own rack of medals and awards...

DND ~The Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) and Canadian Forces Health Services Group have finalized the first phase of a health study designed to systematically document and describe the health effects associated with crew members’ exposure to the October 2004 fire on board HMCS Chicoutimi. The fire happened during the submarine’s transatlantic voyage from Scotland to Canada, and resulted in a number of casualties and the death of Lieutenant (Navy) Chris Saunders.The health study followed 250 participants, including 56 crewmembers, 42 members of the Care and Custody Team who looked after the submarine following its return to Faslane, Scotland, and 152 randomly selected submariners (acting as a control group).Stage one of the study analysed the health of participants in the five years preceding the fire and the five years following the fire. The results of the health study were shared with the former members of HMCS Chicoutimi and the Care and Custody Team at a Town Hall on July 11 at Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Halifax. Following the Town Hall, results of the study were then released to the public. The results presented were not individual medical states (no new personal information was presented to individual sailors), but were instead an overview of the cohort’s general health, which has been compiled to help individual sailors to contextualize their own health, as well as to enable the best possible Canadian Armed Forces (CAF)/Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC) support to those who experienced the fire. “As the mental and physical well-being of our sailors and the care of our people is our first priority, we appreciate the significance of the study’s findings, and the importance of maintaining a dialogue with and continuing to monitor the health of everyone who was exposed to the fire,” said Vice-Admiral Art McDonald, Commander of the RCN, while leading the...

[caption id="attachment_21183" align="alignnone" width="593"] OS Levi Thompson enjoys surfing the Internet in the Junior Rank’s Mess in HMCS Regina.[/caption]HMCS Regina ~Today, the need for connectivity to families and friends, or even the ability to check sports scores, news, or download a new movie, book, or music is important to the quality of life for sailors at sea. The Royal Canadian Navy is committed to improving our sailors’ quality of life, connectivity goes a long way to keeping the navy a top employer. The navy has been working hard to deliver Wi-Fi to sailors at sea, and there is light at the end of the tunnel. Wi-Fi at sea is currently being installed in HMCS Ottawa for evaluation during their upcoming deployment, and short work periods are being scheduled to install this system in other ships. This project will deliver Wi-Fi systems to messes, connecting sailors with home. HMCS Regina’s crew had desperately hoped it would be selected and fitted for this new system in time for the 2019 deployment, but these types of projects take a significant amount of time and effort to research and implement a fulsome solution.So, the warship sailed from Esquimalt last February for a six-and-a-half-month deployment without Wi-Fi installed. But then someone had an idea. If we can get Satellite TV in the messes, and we can get cable internet at home, why can’t we have cable internet at sea?The Heads of Departments went to work. Researching options, risks, costs and developing solutions and mitigations to each hurdle encountered, team REGi-Net plugged away like code breakers at Bletchley Park. Radiation hazard considerations, check.Emissions security concerns, check.Weight and stability, check. Finances and contracting, check. Finally, full of optimism, the team made their pitch in a briefing note. REGi-Net was Wi-Fi at sea with minimal added risk, and...

[caption id="attachment_21180" align="alignnone" width="593"] Photo by Peter Mallett, Lookout[/caption]Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~Members of Victoria’s new professional soccer team - Pacific Football Club - got their kicks away from the field last week when they boarded HMCS Ottawa during a visit to CFB Esquimalt.Twenty-seven players and staff from the Canadian Premier League team met with sailors during a tour and filming of short promotional videos. The videos will be used during their special military appreciation game on July 20 at the Westhills Stadium in Langford against the HFX (Halifax) Wanderers.The military community will receive a discount on their tickets to the game.Midfielder Ben Fisk was among the team’s players who fully enjoyed the opportunity to visit a Canadian military base. Fisk’s family has strong ties to Canada’s navy, among them his grandfather Ronald Routledge. Routledge served as Coxswain on multiple Canadian warships including HMCS Algonquin and HMCS Huron.“The men and women who work in Canada’s military are serving our country at the utmost level,” said Fisk. “It’s important for us to see what their lives are like, get to know about the jobs they do, and make new friends and connections for our club.”Their tour of Ottawa included a visit to the machinery control room, engineering office, bridge, galley and messes. The visit concluded on the ship’s fo’c’sle where they posed for a group photo with the ship’s company.Petty Officer Second Class Jacob Russell, a Combat Systems Engineer in Ottawa, and soccer fan, was one of the sailors conducting the guided tours.“It’s always a pleasure showing what the navy has to offer and it’s good to have some great guests like this to show it to. Tours like these are a great opportunity to build new relationships and strengthen ties in our community.”The Club is offering a special ticket price starting...

Culture, history, tradition ~The Okanagan Military Tattoo is an event that will stir the heart and feed the soul. It’s Vernon’s largest annual indoor event and Western Canada’s only military tattoo.It’s two hours of action packed, heart pounding, fast-paced family entertainment at the Kal Tire Place in Vernon on Saturday, July 27 and Sunday, July 28.Over 550 performers will take part in the event, including massed pipes and drums, highland and ethnic dancers, military and civilian bands, cultural troupes, precision drills, and singers. Featured performers include the 65-member Brentwood Imperial Youth Band from the UK and the Calgary Round-Up Band. The Regimental Band of the British Columbia Regiment (Duke of Connaught’s Own) will participate in the Tribute to the Veterans segment of the program as that regiment was involved in the Battle of Normandy.Tickets for the 2019 Okanagan Military Tattoo – starting at $25 including all fees and taxes- are now on sale at TicketSeller in Vernon 250-549-7469 or ticketseller.ca.   The Tattoo will be held indoors – in air conditioned comfort - and all seating is reserved. Special ticket prices apply to seniors and veterans.  Second World War and  Korean War Veterans are invited to attend free of charge.

[caption id="attachment_21143" align="alignnone" width="593"] From left: Lt(N) (Retired) André Robin, CPO2 (Retired) Ken Levert and CPO2 (Retired) Claude Jolivet reminisce about old times back in 1973 when they were aboard HMCS Terra Nova during Canada’s peacekeeping mission in the Vietnam conflict. Photo by Peter Mallett, Lookout[/caption]Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~A tight-knit group of veterans who served in former warship HMCS Terra Nova are producing a coin to commemorate the peacekeeping mission during the Vietnam War. From January to June of 1973, Terra Nova was deployed off the coast of Vietnam as part of Operation Gallant during Westploy ’73. The coin, created by Esquimalt’s Sharkzcoins, will be distributed to former crew members later this summer. The intention of the coin is to give each surviving crew member a tangible memento of their part in this mission. Chief Petty Officer (Retired) Ken Levert, 69, says, while their mission was only six months, most Canadians are unaware of Terra Nova’s peacekeeping role in Vietnam. “It was one crew and one mission, and we have stayed together for over 46 years,” said Levert, who served aboard Terra Nova as a Radioman. “Those were our brothers in arms back then; we worked together and played together, and the camaraderie was second to none.”Terra Nova was deployed to Vietnam should a sea evacuation be necessary for the Canadian peacekeeping troops taking part in Operation Gallant on land, Canada’s military contribution to the International Commission of Control and Supervision. The international coalition was introduced following the signing of the Paris Peace Accord in January 1973, which attempted to put an end to the Cold-war era conflict between communist forces in the north of the country pitted against United States-backed southern Vietnamese forces. But the ceasefire agreement failed and the conflict and casualties continued to mount even after the peace accord was signed.Levert says Terra Nova’s deployment was highly secretive; they were given few details about its deployment and the vessel departed Esquimalt quietly with no official send-off.   Canada’s military...

[caption id="attachment_21139" align="alignnone" width="593"] LS Cameron Welch[/caption]A/SLt Adam Smith and A/SLt Donald Den, HMCS Malahat ~When Leading Seaman Cameron Welch joined HMCS Malahat in 2017, it was at a time when the administration clerk trade was dividing in two.He was given a choice of jobs - financial services or human resources administrator.As he is working towards a bachelor’s degree in business with an accounting major at the University of Victoria, financial services administration was the perfect fit for the new naval reservist.He could apply his academic skills to a real job in finance, get paid for it, and grow his resume. However, LS Welch is quick to add he did not join the Naval Reserves just to improve his accounting skills.“I really love being on the water. Any Orca sail that I’m available for, I definitely go, and I enjoy my time out there immensely.” While most of his 20-year-old friends are stationary in their jobs, LS Welch is slowly filling up his passport with custom stamps. In May, he travelled to Kuwait where he is currently stationed for the summer as part of Operation Impact. As financial services administration is a “purple trade”, meaning it does not belong to one of the three major elements (land, sea or air), he can do the same work he was doing in Malahat’s ship’s office, only in an international operation environment. “The logistic and financial support is key to any successful military operation,” says Cdr Greg Walker, Malahat’s Commanding Officer. “The ability for reservists to deploy and support the financial administration reinforces the total force concept while providing LS Welch with invaluable operational experience.” LS Welch has advice for anyone considering joining the Naval Reserves, and the financial administration world in the military. “First, I would recommend doing it now. We need people...

[caption id="attachment_21136" align="alignnone" width="593"] From left, Catherine Blake and Barbara Sybbald, the granddaughters of the late Surgeon Cmdre Archie McCallum, and Arrabelle MacKenzie McCallum, with Naval Museum of Halifax Curator Jennifer Gamble. The visitors donated their late grandfather’s drill cane to the museum, along with a collection of photos and documents. Photo by Ryan Melanson, Trident Newspaper[/caption]Ryan Melanson, Trident Newspaper ~Stadacona’s Admiralty House is currently home to the Naval Museum of Halifax, but the building’s deep connection to Royal Canadian Navy history goes far beyond the collections and artifacts now housed inside.Prior to serving as a museum, the building’s former uses include a Royal Navy head­quarters Wardroom, and hospital, specifically as Massachusetts-Halifax Relief Commission Public Health Unit No. 1 from 1920-1924.For recent museum ­visitors Catherine Blake and Barb Sybbald, the building’s time as a naval hospital and clinic is relevant to their own family history. Their late grandfather, Surgeon Commodore Archie McCallum, was working as a medical officer in the early 1920s when he met their grandmother, Arrabelle MacKenzie, who was one of the few female dentists in Canada and working at Admiralty House. The couple went on to marry, of course, and their wedding photo was among the items the sisters brought along to donate to the museum during their visit on May 27. The donation included several documents and paperwork from Cmdre McCallum’s career, along with a drill cane engraved with his name and rank.The items will join the museum’s existing collection on Cmdre McCallum, which includes his medals, letters, photos and other documents. A small collection of items is also kept at the Archie McCallum Building, home to CF Health Services Centre (Atlantic).“He was an interesting man and we’re lucky to have some letters he wrote and other items to show his family members,” said museum researcher Lisa McNiven....

[caption id="attachment_21133" align="alignnone" width="593"] USS Lake Eerie conducts re-supply via helicopter with USNS Amelia Earhart in the background. Photo by Cpl Evans, CFB Borden Base Imaging Services[/caption]SLt Sarah Halfkenny, HMCS Regina ~While in the East China Sea June 18 to 25, HMCS Regina and MV Asterix took part in Operation Neon, Canada’s contribution to a coordinated multinational effort to support the implementation of United Nations Security Council sanctions imposed against North Korea.In April, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced that Canada would renew its contribution to enforcing imposed UN sanctions against North Korea with a new two-year military operation. Regina worked closely with allied and partner nations operating in the area, as well as with a Canadian CP-140 Aurora maritime patrol aircraft that conducted surveillance operations. The goal of these operations was to identify maritime sanction evasion activities.Regina provided imagery and intelligence on at-sea transfers to the Enforcement Coordination Cell (ECC). Asterix conducted replenishment activities with U.S. Navy ships USS Curtis D. Wilbur and USS Lake Eerie, both operating under the ECC.“I am proud of the team’s ability to shift focus from an active interdiction role on Op Artemis to conducting surveillance operations in support of ECC on Op Neon,” said Cdr Jake French, Regina’s Commanding Officer. “Regina’s ability to leverage team training and collective experience in a variety of operations is a testament to the hard work of every member of the ship’s company.”HMCS Ottawa will participate in Operation Neon later this year.

[caption id="attachment_21130" align="alignnone" width="593"] Canadian Ranger Master Corporal Daniel Maldonado, 19, from Fort St. John, B.C., instructs Junior Canadian Rangers from 4th Canadian Ranger Patrol Group’s JCR company on leadership skills July 2 in Albert Head. Photo by Second Lieutenant Christopher King, 4 CRPG Public Affairs[/caption]Dozens of youth travelled by land and air to Vancouver Island July 3 from across western Canada to be a part of something that will leave a lasting and positive impact in their lives. Junior Canadian Rangers (JCRs), aged 12 to 18, belonging to the 4th Canadian Ranger Patrol Group (4 CRPG) arrived at Albert Head for the 2019 Basic Enhanced Training Session (BETS).The enhanced training session mandate is derived from the Canadian Armed Forces responsibilities for diligent development and optimizing partnerships with communities. One of the goals is to bring together diverse populations and create common experiences and bonds, something which Michael Nichols, volunteer and retired Canadian Ranger, believes the JCR program does very well.“I think the JCR program does an awful lot bringing young Canadians together and uniting them,” Nichols said. “It brings JCRs from different town sizes, different cultures, and different languages, and we’ll put them together in a section. Very quickly they’ll learn what they share in common.”Over 90 JCRs are attending BETS this year between July 3 to 11. The exercise is run by the 4 CRPG JCR Company, which includes JCRs from their local patrols in Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta, and British Columbia.Leigh Auld is a JCR corporal from Ucluelet, B.C., and is working as a mentor for BETS. Auld has been in the program for five years, and this is her first year as a mentor. She said the mentor’s role is to provide support to the JCRs and help motivate and lead them.“For a lot of us it’s...

[caption id="attachment_21127" align="alignnone" width="593"] Comedian and former talk show host Jon Stewart (centre, top row) poses for a group photo with Team Canada athletes during the Warrior Games in Tampa, Fla. Photo credit: Soldier On[/caption]Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~Veterans and currently serving members from Victoria played a vital part in Team Canada’s inspirational performance at the Warrior Games in Tampa, Florida. This year’s annual multi-sport competition for ill or injured serving military and veterans was held June 21 to 30. Team Canada’s delegation was organized by the Canadian Armed Forces Transition Group’s Soldier On program and was comprised of 36 athletes competing in 13 sports: archery, cycling, shooting, sitting volleyball, swimming, track, field, wheelchair basketball, indoor rowing, powerlifting, wheelchair rugby, wheelchair tennis, and golf. Canadians were among 300 athletes from the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Denmark, and the Netherlands who competed at this year’s games. Canada won 21 medals - 10 gold, five silver and six bronze. Master Corporal (Retired) Frieda Van Putten of Victoria won a silver medal in women’s cycling time trials, and gold in the women’s swimming relay. Captain (Retired) Jennifer Sizer, also from Victoria, captured bronze in women’s powerlifting. Canada’s strong medal showing was buoyed by Master Seaman Laura Livesey of Yellowknife who won two gold medals in 100-metre freestyle swimming and the 50-metre backstroke, and two silver medals in 50-metre freestyle and 50-metre breaststroke.Leading Seaman Desi Cozier, who works at Fleet Maintenance Facility Cape Breton’s weapons engineering shop, competed in rowing, wheelchair rugby, shooting, and discus and shotput in the track and field competition. LS Cozier had previously enjoyed playing recreational soccer, cricket, and beach volleyball before suffering multiple injuries. He is currently recovering from a laundry list of sports injuries dating back to 2014 including a broken tibia and fibula, broken finger and tear...

[caption id="attachment_21085" align="alignnone" width="592"] Sgt Tim Keith from CFRC assists a student as she experiences the CAF through virtual reality. This was one of many skilled trades and technology activities available at the 2019 Skills Canada National Competition, held May 28 and 29 at the Halifax Exhibition Centre. Photo by Sgt Dianne Lambert, CFRC Atlantic[/caption]Sgt Dianne Lambert, CFRC (Atlantic) and Margaret ConwayCFB Halifax Public Affairs ~On May 28 and 29, Canadian Forces Recruiting Centre (CFRC) Atlantic, FMF Cape Scott, CFB Halifax and other local defence organizations participated in the 2019 Skills Canada National Competition (SCNC) held at the Halifax Exhibition Centre.SCNC, the only national, multi-trade and technology competition for students and apprentices in the country, takes place annually in cities across Canada. Each year, more than 550 competitors from all regions come to SCNC to participate in over 40 skilled trade and technology competitions.The 2019 competition in Halifax was impressive. The students and apprentices competing were the most highly skilled from their respective provinces and territories, having competed in provincial and territorial events to qualify for the national competition.In addition to the many competitions that are the foundation of the event, the 2019 SCNC also included essential skills talks, essential skills stage presentations, an exhibitor career zone and a Young Women in Construction Conference, to name a few.There were various Try-a-Trade® and Technology activities set up by private and public companies and government organizations during the competition. These activities provided students and the public with hands-on experience and created awareness of skilled trade careers in local, regional, and national workforces. Thousands of students from across the province arrived in busloads during the two-day competition.Our local Defence Team presented an impressive array of activities that highlighted some of the amazing skilled trades careers, both military and civilian, that support CAF operations...

[caption id="attachment_21074" align="alignnone" width="593"] WO Terence Whittaker of Base Logistics shows off a Garmin Display used in the Trakopolis digital tracking system. Trakopolis is currently used by 13 vehicles at the base’s Transport Electrical and Mechanical Engineering (TEME) unit. Photo by Peter Mallett, Lookout[/caption]Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~A digital tracking system designed to improve the safety of Canadian Armed Forces drivers has been introduced at CFB Esquimalt’s Base Transport unit.Thirteen vehicles at Base Logistics’ Transport Electrical and Mechanical Engineering (TEME) unit were recently equipped with the Trakopolis digital tracking system. This high-tech equipment combines GPS technology, mobile communications and cloud computing. It ensures drivers are never entirely alone while in remote locations, with their vehicle easily tracked. It was introduced five months ago and became fully operational in early May. TEME vehicles using the new tech include three highway-style tractor trailers and four highway cruiser buses. Warrant Officer Terence Whittaker, Formation Vehicle Fleet Manager, says the safety factor was the main reason for the introduction of Trakopolis. In the past, he and other supervisors had to rely on contacting drivers via telephone and even word of mouth to find out their location. “We needed to have the ability to communicate directly with our drivers, especially when they are in the mountains and out of cell service, and we need to know where they are if they break down or are in some sort of an emergency. Trakopolis greatly improves the safety of our drivers and passengers and the safety of our assets.”Beyond safety, the technology is an asset to business management. It can track distance travelled, fuel consumption, and hours of usage. It can also tell if a driver is idling too long or driving too fast. Transponders located under the dashboard use either cell phone or satellite signals to relay information...

[caption id="attachment_21082" align="alignnone" width="593"] HMCS Regina conducts manoeuvres with NRU Asterix and the Japenese military during Operation PROJECTION on June 13th. Photo by Japanese Image Technician. Edited by Corporal Stuart Evans, BORDEN Imaging Services[/caption]Lt(N) Vince Charlebois, HMCS Regina, UPAR ~While sailing in support of OP Projection, HMCS Regina and NRU Asterix conducted a bilateral international cooperative exercise named KAEDEX 19-1 with the Japanese Maritime Self-Defence Force Escort Flotilla 1 off the coast of Cam Ranh Bay, Vietnam from June 13-15. This key international engagement included Japanese helicopter carrier JS Izumo, frigate JS Akebono and J.D. Samidaire destroyer JS Mursame. The exercise was conducted in the South China Sea following a port visit to Cam Ranh Bay, Vietnam, and kicked off with a photo exercise including all of the ships and two of their maritime helicopters. Following this exercise, HMCS Regina’s Commanding Officer and Unit Public Affairs Representative conducted a helicopter transfer to JS Akebono. The ensuing discussion between Commanding Officers of both naval warships provided a chance to have a discussion regarding KAEDEX 19-1, and the operations of Japan and Canada in the region.Training serials in KAEDEX 19-1 included an anti-submarine warfare exercise, tactical manoeuvres, replenishments at sea, and overnight screen exercises. A key training serial was tactical manoeuvres, which had a focus on interoperability and compared and contrasted the training conducted by both navies. This enabled the teams to work together, deliver key reports to the other ships in a timely fashion, and execute effective training. The ease of cross-training demonstrated our military processes are aligned, leaving room for more interoperability in the future. Cross training with the Japanese Navy will allow us to foster cultural and institutional understanding by immersing sailors in the life of their shipmates onboard another navy’s ship. Amidst the numerous exercises, HMCS Regina and JS...

[caption id="attachment_21078" align="alignnone" width="593"] HMCS Regina's Commanding Officer Commander Jacob French joins Deborah Paul, the Ambassador of Canada to Vietnam, with members of the crew for a visit to the Hope Orphanage, Nhan Ai shelter in Khanh Hoa, Vietnam during Operation Projection on June 11. Photo by Corporal Stuart Evans, Borden Imaging Services[/caption]Lt(N) Vince Charlebois, HMCS Regina, UPAR ~On the morning of June 10th, HMCS Regina and NRU Asterix came alongside Cam Ranh International Port located in Cam Ranh Bay, Vietnam. Regina is the first Canadian warship to make a port visit there and the ship’s officers and crew were welcomed warmly by local military and government officials. As the current ship deployed on Op Projection – Asia Pacific, these port visits aid in building relationships with partners in the Asia-Pacific region.The command team made calls to military and government officials and the ship’s company participated in community outreach activities in the local area. During the port visit, members of the ship’s company went to the University of Khanh Hoa to discuss the role of women in the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) and to exchange stories and cultural experiences such as music and dancing. These experiences highlighted values shared between Canada and Vietnam.Regina’s crew members also played volleyball with Vietnamese military personnel and visited the Nhân Ai Shelter for Children and a social welfare center, where the Commanding Officer along with Ambassador Paul presented a $10,000 cheque from Boomer’s Legacy to help replace a damaged road. Later, Regina and the Ambassador, Ms. Deborah Paul hosted a reception on the flight deck for local dignitaries and military officials. Regina’s visit, as part of key engagements on behalf of Canada, aided in highlighting the growing bilateral relations with Vietnam, both in diplomatic and defense objectives.Regina is deployed to the Asia-Pacific region on Op...

[caption id="attachment_21070" align="alignnone" width="593"] Rear-Admiral Bob Auchterlonie and Kin Choi, Assistant Deputy Minister (HR-CIV) cut the ribbon during the ceremony on June 26. Photo by Leading Seaman Sisi Xu, MARPAC Imaging Services[/caption]Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~To address ongoing problems from the Phoenix Pay System, the Department of National Defence (DND) has expanded the Compensation Team to better support civilian employees in Esquimalt.In a ribbon-cutting ceremony on June 26, Commander Maritime Forces Pacific Rear-Admiral Bob Auchterlonie and Assistant Deputy Minister of Human Resources Civilian (HR-Civ) Kin Choi officially launched the Enhanced Service Delivery Model, which includes a team located in Naden Building 54. RAdm Auchterlonie and Mr. Choi both acknowledged that ongoing pay issues have greatly affected the lives of Defence Team employees. “Our people are our greatest resource, and the Defence Team is committed to making sure they’re paid properly,” said RAdm Auchterlonie. “This is one step we’re taking to make sure our people are compensated correctly and to further support employees on our bases and wings.”The Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat is leading a project to replace the existing pay system. Three companies are bidding to create a new pay and human resources system. Mr. Choi says the main intent of the new compensation resources is to provide “digital, virtual and fulsome support” to civilian employees and their managers.  Additional Compensation resources have been added on military bases CFB Borden, Winnipeg, Gagetown, Montreal and Saint-Jean-Sur-Richelieu, and Suffield, among others. During an interview at the Wardroom on June 25, Mr. Choi emphasized that these new resources will change the delivery of compensation procedures and how individual cases are handled.“We want to be able to orient ourselves not only to address the crisis, but really to look at how we want to do things in the future and that is key to...

[caption id="attachment_21110" align="alignnone" width="593"] Photo by Leading Seaman Mike Goluboff, MARPAC Imaging Services[/caption]A/SLt Michelle Scott, MARPAC PA ~CFB Esquimalt has made history – welcoming its first Logistics Officer to the position of Base Commander (BComd) in a ceremony held June 27.In the Logistics Branch’s fifty-one years of history, Captain(N) Sam Sader is the first to take the helm as BComd of CFB Esquimalt, a position typically bestowed upon Naval Warfare Officers. “I am honoured to have been appointed by the Admiralty and I assume this command with a great sense of pride and responsibility,” he said. Despite this auspicious appointment, Capt(N) Sader remains humble, “I believe every incoming Base Commander strives to enable the best support to the Fleet and Formation, regardless of their professional background,” he explained.He leaves his most recent position in H.M.C. Dockyard as the CO of Base Logistics where he oversaw the installation of the first Vertical Lift System on a Canadian Base. The VLS project took a mere 15 months from inception to installation and transformed this supply chain process through digitization. Capt(N) Sader has held a variety of positions throughout his years in the CAF – including time within three of the current base branches. This comprises of serving onboard HMCS Ottawa, leading the Forward Logistics Site team and being seconded to the Naval Boarding Team; serving as the LogO for Maritime Operations Group 4; and supporting numerous OP CARIBBEs, RIMPAC and HMCS Victoria’s first operational deployment. He was also a section head within the Directorate of Naval Logistics in Ottawa. All positions and experiences he feels will enable him to fulfill his duties as BComd. “Naval Logistics is a multi-disciplinary field that aims to optimize resource use to deliver the most effective support to operations, and that is very similar to the base’s mission,” he explained.Outgoing BComd, Capt(N) Jason Boyd is confident that Capt(N) Sader will move into his role seamlessly.“During his time as Base Logistics Officer, I found Capt(N) Sader to be both...

[caption id="attachment_21064" align="alignnone" width="593"] Capt(N) Jason Boyd bids farewell to his role as CFB Esquimalt Base Commander. Photo by Leading Seaman Mike Goluboff, MARPAC Imaging Services[/caption]SLt M.X. Déry, Acting Editor ~From sitting on the  Chamber of Commerce to hosting Defence on the Dock, after two years of connecting with the local community and being the “14th mayor” of Greater Victoria, Capt(N) Jason Boyd bids farewell to his role as CFB Esquimalt Base Commander.“It’s been a journey of learning these past two years,” said Capt(N) Boyd. “As a ship driver, everything that happens on the base was new to me, but I was fortunate to inherit a base that was in good shape. Cmdre. Waddel left me with little work to do inside the guardrails.”With approximately 6500 personnel, CFB Esquimalt is the third largest employer in Greater Victoria, and akin to a self-contained city with its own fire and police department, post office, homes, and food services.“There is such a huge spectrum of military and civilian leadership within the base and I still don’t know them all,” said Capt(N) Boyd. Despite dealing with a much larger and more diverse workforce than he had experienced on a warship, he worked to maintain his leadership style.“To go from the pointy end of things to the operational support side was a shift, but I tried not to change my approach, whether dealing with two people or two-thousand,” said Capt(N) Boyd. “Treat people with respect; give people a voice. Everyone has a role to play.”Outside the guardrails, Capt(N) Boyd met with the mayors of the 13 municipalities of Greater Victoria in order to connect with the community and break down some of the barriers caused by having a gated base.“For me it was all about de-mystifying what we do here for the community,” said Capt(N) Boyd....

[caption id="attachment_21054" align="alignnone" width="592"] Photo by Lt(N) van Poorten[/caption]Lt(N) H. van Poorten, D/MSEO ~Over 20 members of HMCS Winnipeg volunteered over the weekend of June 8 & 9 to help the local charity organization, HeroWork, in their effort to renovate a former juvenile detention centre into a therapeutic rehabilitation facility for Our Place.  HeroWork has been helping local charities to renovate their spaces for nine years, completing 13 large-scope renovations for a fraction of the cost by using donated materials and funds, and the volunteer time of trades people and unskilled members of the public alike. Everyone works hand-in-hand to achieve a common goal that enables charities to better serve those in need. Two projects are completed each year over the course of one month, with most of the work occurring in huge bursts over three to four weekends.Over this past weekend, the Winnipeg team helped to assemble and install light fixtures, completed landscaping for the food production garden, installed wall features and helped with painting throughout the various buildings. The progress made over each weekend is astounding, and many members will be looking to sign up again to help in future. For more information visit www.herowork.com or their Facebook page.

[caption id="attachment_21049" align="alignnone" width="593"] Members of the Vancouver Police Department’s Marine Unit pose for a group photo with the crew of HMCS Vancouver. Photo by LS Brendan Gibson, MARPAC Imaging Services[/caption]SLt Jacob Tamman, HMCS Vancouver ~The crew of HMCS Vancouver were in her namesake city last week to celebrate their 25th anniversary of commissioning, and to conduct community outreach activities. At the Honour House Society, the charity that HMCS Vancouver officially supports, the crew helped out with various maintenance activities - from mowing the lawn and digging a trench, to painting the fences and fixing a fountain. While present at the Honour House, the crew was introduced to a veteran who was a crew member aboard the Vancouver the day she was commissioned. Several members had the chance to see the operations of the Vancouver Police Department and the Vancouver Fire Rescue Services. Needless to say, these sailors came away from their rides with a newfound respect for the work that these two services conduct on a daily basis. To put their teamwork and skills to the test, the sailors from HMCS Vancouver challenged the Vancouver Fire Rescue Service to a softball game at Strathcona Park, which was an excellent opportunity to interact with and learn about the members of the Fire Rescue Service. Eight crew members from the ship were at Vancouver City Hall on Friday, May 31 at 2:30 pm to replace the bell rope and shine the bell that hangs over the entrance to the Council Chamber. Their visit to City Hall was meant to further the long history the city shares with the Royal Canadian Navy. The bell was gifted to the City of Vancouver by HMCS Vancouver K240 in 1946 as a token of friendship and the ship’s appreciation to the city.At times the RCN is...

2LT Nicolas Plourde-Fleury, CFB Halifax Public Affairs ~On April 25, 2019, CFB Halifax’s Base Chief, CPO1 Gregory, was in a Carling Campus boardroom in Ottawa meeting with DND and CAF colleagues from across the country. The group was holding an initial consultation to discuss the creation of a national CAF/DND lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, transsexual, queer, questioning and 2-spirited (LGBTQ2) Network On May 23, less than a month later, CPO1 Gregory gathered at CFB Halifax with military and civilian members of the local Defence Team for the inaugural meeting of the Maritime Defence Pride Network (MDPN). Inspired by pride initiatives taking place across the country on military bases, members of the MDPN shared ideas and discussed the purpose of the network during the meeting. Three main objectives were identified: to create LGTBQ2 outreach opportunities on and off Base; to encourage the sharing of stories from members of our Defence family in order to create a public dialogue around LGBTQ2 challenges and successes; and to foster a strong, inclusive and supportive community for LGBTQ2 Defence Team members and allies.“This network, like similar ones in various parts of the country, will promote, support and advocate for those that identify with this community,” explained Capt(N) David Benoit, CO of Fleet Maintenance Facility Cape Scott, who has come onboard as the MDPN Champion. In his role as Champion, Capt(N) Benoit will help bring visibility at the very senior levels in the formation, RCN and CAF on the challenges and issues raised by the community. While not the first LGBTQ2-focused organization at CFB Halifax, the MDPN aims to fill a gap in the current support offered to the local LGBTQ2 Defence Community. Until now, only one other organization, the Positive Space Working Group, offered support to the LGBTQ2 members of Defence Team. “The Positive Space Working...

The Friends of Boomer’s Legacy, Vancouver Island would like to send out a heartfelt thank you to all of our cyclists, sponsors, volunteers, and donors. Without any one of them this event would not have been possible. The 2019 event raised over $40,000 to Help Our Troops Help Others, at Home and Abroad.On June 8 and 9 a group of 42 registered cyclists, 7 motorcycle riders from the Canadian Veteran Brotherhood, and a variety of support volunteers, set out to redefine an event that had a successful decade behind it. The 2019 British Columbia Boomer's Legacy bike ride was filled with camaraderie, laughter, and tears as we collectively remembered and individually rode with cards of fallen military members. Those who participated will concur that lifelong memories were made during this first ride in the new format.The primary reason for the altered route boils down to traffic south of Nanaimo having increased to a point where safety is a big concern. Change had to happen and Col (ret’d) Jim Benninger came up with the idea that if we rode to Nanaimo and back, essentially the same distance as to Victoria, it would be a safer and easier ride. This more accessible format opens the event up to participants of all levels of ability and experience. The 2019 ride ended on a high note as the riders were welcomed back on Sunday afternoon to 888 Wing at CFB Comox after an incident-free, highly-enjoyable ride by supporters, friends, and family. It is hard to imagine anyone in the room not feeling the impact of the ceremony that concludes the ride, or being impressed by the feast served. Funds this year will help Vancouver Island Compassion Dogs, a charity that pairs service animals with veterans in need, a cause that fits in perfectly with the...

[caption id="attachment_21035" align="alignnone" width="592"] A member of the Canadian Naval Tactical Operations Group teaches Mexican Navy personnel techniques on how to secure the perimeter of a ship at the Las Calderas Naval Station in Dominican Republic. Photo by Private Tori Lake, Canadian Forces Support Unit (Ottawa) Imaging Services[/caption]Captain Christopher Daniel, Ex Tradewinds PAO ~ Tactical Operations Specialists from the Royal Canadian Navy are working with specialists from the United States Coast Guard in delivering training activities to partner navies from the Dominican Republic, Mexico, Jamaica, and Haiti.They are exchanging best practices on ship boarding procedures during the first phase of Exercise TRADEWINDS 19 at Las Calderas Naval Station in the Dominican Republic from May 30 to June 8, 2019.“We are training with our Caribbean allies and the United States Coast Guard to hone our collective ability to operate in a complex security environment,” said Lieutenant (Navy) Benjamin Scott, Naval Warfare Officer and Deputy Commanding Officer of the Naval Tactical Operations Group (NTOG).Exercise TRADEWINDS is a United States-led multinational joint exercise that focuses on strengthening safety and security in the Caribbean region. Held annually, this year’s exercise marks the 35th year since its inception. There are 22 partner nations training together to increase regional cooperation in complex security and humanitarian operations.“Our team is composed of five NTOG personnel,” said Lt(N) Scott. “In addition, we have two members of the United States Coast Guard assisting in providing the training. We find it very effective to work with them as we have very similar tactics, techniques and procedures,” he added.The naval tactical training activities include personnel handling such as detention and searching of persons that come under the control of the boarding party team. It also encompasses the safe embarkation and securing of vessels.“We make our training scenarios as realistic as possible. We share...

[caption id="attachment_21032" align="alignnone" width="593"] CFB Esquimalt Fire and Rescue Services Alexandria Marshall (left) and Corporal Michael Smith of Military Police Unit Esquimalt bump fists in front of emergency services vehicles. The duo will participate in the upcoming Tour de Rock fundraiser to benefit pediatric cancer, Sept. 21 to Oct. 4.[/caption]Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~The road ahead is an arduous one but two cyclists from CFB Esquimalt say they are pumped about pedaling for this year’s Tour de Rock cycling team. Alexandria Marshall of CFB Esquimalt Fire and Rescue Services and Corporal Michael Smith of the base’s Military Police Unit (MPU) are part of the 22-member team taking part in this year’s 22nd annual Cops4Cancer fundraiser. The 2019 Tour de Rock team will include 21 emergency services workers and one media member who will set off from Port Alice on the northern tip of Vancouver Island on Sept. 21 and conclude in Victoria Oct. 4, covering more than 1,000 kilometres.But it’s more than just a physical challenge, as each rider on the team is required to raise a minimum of $6,000 through various fundraising initiatives in the coming months, with proceeds to benefit pediatric cancer research and Camp Good Times, a summer camp for children impacted by cancer. Tour de Rock is one of the most popular and largest charitable events on the island and last year’s ride raised more $1.2-million in donations.In 2018, riders Matt Arnsdorf of CFB Esquimalt Fire and Rescue and Sub-Lieutenant Antoine LeBlanc of MPU made the journey on behalf of the base. It’s a cause both Cpl Smith and Marshall are fully behind, with both saying cancer is a disease that has touched both of their lives.Marshall, 27, works at the fire department as a firefighter. She grew up in the Saanich Peninsula and says one of...

[caption id="attachment_21027" align="alignnone" width="593"] Second World War veteran Russ Kaye is joined by Battlefield Bike Ride cyclists as he makes his way down the steps to set foot on Juno Beach for the first time in 75 years. Photo by John W. Penner/John’s Photography[/caption]Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~When 95-year-old Second World War veteran Russ Kaye set foot on Juno beach for the first time since D-Day, he wasn’t making his steps in its dark brown sand alone.Over 75 years ago on June 6, 1944, the former gunner with 43rd Battery E Troop 12 Field Regiment was one of thousands of brave Canadians who stormed the beach as part of the historic D-Day Landings near Courseulles-sur-Mer, France. Taking Juno beach was a responsibility that mainly fell to Canada’s army and in the end their mission claimed the lives of an estimated 359 Canadians, 574 wounded and 47 taken as prisoners of war. They added to the approximately 225,000 Allied casualties killed during the entire D-Day Invasion, of which an estimated 18,000 Canadians made the supreme sacrifice. To mark that historic day, Kaye and his family were joined on Juno Beach by a large contingent of cyclists who were taking part in the Wounded Warriors Canada Battlefield Bike Ride 2019 and were hosting the family for the event. Everyone gathered with Kaye to share the experience of returning to Juno. “He walked onto the beach with our cyclists surrounding him, many shook his hand while many others hugged him” said Battlefield Bike Ride Director and rider Captain Jacqueline Zweng of the Regional Cadet Support Unit (Pacific). Capt Zweng describes Kaye as a stoic man who didn’t show much emotion during his pilgrimage but also one who remembers each one of the friends he lost during the invasion of France.“That was the highlight of...

[caption id="attachment_21023" align="alignnone" width="592"] Capt(N) Jason Boyd, Base Commander presides over the Change of Command with outgoing CO of Base Logistics Capt(N) Sam Sader and incoming CO Cdr Cynthia Smith on June 19. Photo by Corporal Jay Naples, MARPAC Imaging Services[/caption]A/SLt Michelle Scott, MARPAC PA Office ~It was happenstance that led Commander (Cdr) Cynthia Smith from her small town of Trenton, N.S. to the corner office on the second deck of D211 in H.M.C. Dockyard Esquimalt.When Cdr Smith was in Grade 10, her school hosted a career fair where she planned to attend an information session by Dalhousie University. There was a room change and she happened to walk into a Royal Military College of Canada (RMC) brief. It was from that moment on, she knew she was destined for a career in the Canadian Armed Forces.While attending RMC, her mentor – the school’s deputy commandant, suggested she consider sea logistics for her future career.“He said, ‘Your personality and nature would be an asset to the logistics community.’ My vision, my communication [skills] and ability to connect with others - that’s what he saw in me,” explained Cdr Smith.Her choice to follow his advice led her from the fleet to Joint Task Force 2 (JTF2), around the world, and back to the West Coast where she assumed command of Base Logistics (BLOG) from Captain (Navy) Sam Sader on June 19.“It’s an honour to be extended such an auspicious appointment,” she said. “I am looking forward to working with such a dedicated, forward thinking, and intelligent team.”Cdr Smith comes to BLOG after five years in Ottawa, working within the Directorate of Military Procurement and later the Directorate of Naval Logistics. But she is no stranger to BLOG - in 2004 she was the Customer Services Officer. Cdr Smith explained her return as feeling like she is coming home, and she is ready to amalgamate her two families – both the branch and her young family making the move to the coast with...