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[caption id="attachment_19306" align="alignnone" width="591"] HMCS Ville de Québec’s embarked Helicopter Air Detachment is the first crew to deploy with the RCAF’s new maritime helicopter, the CH-148 Cyclone. Photo by Mona Ghiz, MARLANT PA[/caption]Ryan Melanson, Trident Newspaper ~A new milestone for Canadian maritime aviation was reached on July 18 when HMCS Ville de Québec set sail for Operation Reassurance along with an embarked CH-148 Cyclone helicopter and Helicopter Air Detachment. The departure marks the first operational deployment for the new helicopter, and the result of more than three years of testing, evaluation, and training.Col Sid Connor, Wing Commander at 12 Wing Shearwater, was on hand to speak with the air crew and support staff at the jetty before they left for the roughly six-month deployment, which will focus on supporting NATO assurance measures in Central and Eastern Europe.“This is an amazing change for our air crews, and this is the start of the next chapter in maritime helicopter operations, working with the Navy wherever Canada chooses to send us. It’s a very exciting time,” Col Connor said.The Cyclone, manufactured by Sikorsky, comes with numerous technological improvements compared to the CH-124 Sea King fleet, including flight speed, distance, sensors and communications. The Cyclone flies from a frigate with the same four-person air crew as the Sea King, but with many tasks now being automated, personnel are free to do more to support the ship.“What’s changed is the types of tasks they’ll do, the range of tasks they’re able to do, and the amount of effectiveness the crews will get out of the equipment,” Col Connor added.The mission will mainly involve supporting NATO assurance and deterrence measures in the Baltic and Mediterranean. The ship is set to join Standing NATO Maritime Group 1, a naval force composed of ships from various allied countries, in...

[caption id="attachment_19303" align="alignnone" width="591"] MARPAC Team arrives into Camp Heumensoord at the end of the day’s marching on July 17. Photo by Combat Camera[/caption]Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~A stomach virus that sidelined two members of the Maritime Forces Pacific (MARPAC) Nijmegen marching team didn’t stop the team from completing their mission in the Netherlands.While blisters from the day-long marches and heat exhaustion from the hot and humid temperatures are common obstacles during the event, this year’s team had to battle another enemy. On the final days of the marches approximately 20 members of the Canadian Armed Forces 170-person contingent were sickened by a stomach virus. MARPAC’s team leader, Lieutenant (Navy) Haley van Poorten said her team had been performing exceptionally well for the first two days of the event. Overnight, shortly before the 03:45 start on Day 3, she experienced nausea and fever and was placed in isolation for over 48 hours. Then on the final day of the march a second member of the MARPAC team began experiencing similar symptoms and was also placed in isolation. She described the bug as a “mystery” virus and more like a 24-hour flu. “Anyone in the [Canadian] contingent who reported to the MIR with such symptoms was put in isolation as a precaution,” said Lt(N) van Poorten. “It was a hard decision by the medical staff, but they had to consider the health and safety of the entire camp, which held over 5,000 military members and the other participants and onlookers.”The loss of the team’s leader meant Second In Command, Petty Officer First Class Rayon Murdock took over the leadership duties. Lt(N) van Poorten says the shakeup was disruptive for the team’s well-practised marching formation. “We have been conducting intensive training for this event since the end of February and this was a...

[caption id="attachment_19300" align="alignnone" width="591"] Outgoing CFB Halifax Base Commander Capt(N) Paul Forget, left, and the new Base Commander Capt(N) David Mazur.[/caption]Ryan Melanson, Trident ~It was 15 years ago that Captain (Navy) David Mazur was last posted to Halifax, serving in HMCS Halifax as the ship’s Command Control Information Officer.Since then, he has built a diverse resume that includes Canadian Fleet Pacific Operations Officer, Commanding Officer of HMCS Vancouver, and Commanding Officer of Sea Training Pacific.His latest tasking will make full use of that experience as he settles in as Base Commander of Canada’s largest military base.He officially took command of CFB Halifax July 11 from Capt(N) Paul Forget.“I couldn’t be happier to be back in Halifax. I recognize the key role CFB Halifax plays in supporting the fleet and other operations, and it’s clear that I’m taking over the helm of a very dedicated and professional team,” he said during the change of command.He thanked the outgoing Base Commander for his work and leadership in the position as well Rear-Admiral Craig Baines, Commander Maritime Forces Atlantic (MARLANT), for having confidence in him to lead the base through the coming years, and his family, including wife Marise and sons Kevin and Eric, who attended the ceremony.Along with senior leaders and a cross-section of uniformed and civilian employees, the change of command was also attended by Arthur J. Leblanc, Lieutenant Governor of Nova Scotia; Halifax Mayor Mike Savage; Halifax Regional Police Chief Jean Michel Blais; and other members of the wider community, highlighting the links that exist between the base and the Halifax Regional Municipality.In his address RAdm Baines noted that being a good community neighbour and maintaining relationships with all levels of government is one of the ways the job differs from other command appointments.“The job of base commander is a complex...

[caption id="attachment_19296" align="alignnone" width="591"] Photo by SLt M.X. Déry[/caption]HMCS Calgary sailed out of Esquimalt Harbour July 31 and onward to the Asia-Pacific region for Operation Projection, a five month deployment. The ship will conduct naval presence operations in the region. It will also support international naval exercises with partners, and make port visits in five countries. These visits support Canada’s diplomatic efforts in the region.

Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~The Esquimalt Tritons overcame a winless start at the Canadian Armed Forces Ball Hockey Championship at CFB Borden to capture the tournament’s silver medal.The Canada West’s representatives from Esquimalt suffered three consecutive losses in the tournament’s round robin phase, but rallied with two playoff victories.On Aug. 1 they scored an 8-4 win over CFB Kingston, who represented the Ontario Region, and then later that day got a 4-1 victory over CFB Greenwood of the Atlantic Region in the semi-final game.In the Aug. 2 championship game the Tritons fell 5-2 to Quebec Champions from CFB Bagotville but still managed to capture the tournament’s silver medal.Player-coach Master Seaman John Helpard, says getting the team’s runner-up medal after the final buzzer was a special moment for him and five of his teammates, who have played with the Tritons for the past 11 years and have had little to crow about.“This is the team’s first appearance ever in a final since I’ve been playing and everyone is very excited to be going home with a silver medal,” said MS Helpard, who works as combat instructor with the Naval Personnel Training Group. “This is a huge milestone for us. Our opponents from Quebec had an amazing team and deserve full credit for their victory.”Esquimalt qualified for the nationals after defeating Cold Lake in the Canada West regional qualifying tournament championship game on June 14 at CFB Wainwright. MS Helpard said the Tritons’ playoff success at the nationals could be attributed to making use of their entire roster of players during the round robin phase. This was a game-changer as the tournament wore on because it allowed his players to get the necessary playing time and jell together as a team, while also allowing key players to save their energy for the playoffs.MS...

[caption id="attachment_19284" align="alignnone" width="591"] Rugby players from the base, Petty Officer First Class Jay Jimmo, Petty Officer Second Class Marc-Andre Bibeau, and Leading Seaman Lionel Achari recently participated in a match against the British Royal Air Force. Photo by LS Derek Rowland[/caption]Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~Three sailors from Esquimalt have been chosen as starters to represent the new Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) rugby team in international competition.Petty Officer First Class Jay Jimmo of the Naval Personnel Training Group (NPTG), Petty Officer Second Class Marc-Andre Bibeau, Fleet Diving Unit (Pacific) and Leading Seaman Lionel Achari, HMCS Regina have been named to the fledgling rugby program’s permanent roster after their strong performances during an international match against the British Royal Air Force, last month at CFB Edmonton. The match served as a selection camp ahead of next year’s biennial International Rugby Defence Championships (IRDC) in Japan, which Canada hopes to participate in in the future.“I was completely honoured to be selected for the Canadian Forces national team, not just for myself but also for Maritime Forces Pacific and my home rugby team the West Shore Velox,” said PO1 Jimmo, starting Tighthead Prop of the CAF team. “It’s a chance for all of the players to make an impact on developing the game for Canada’s military.”Rugby is taking its first on the road to becoming a CAF-sanctioned sport. Invitations to the quadrennial tournament have yet to be sent out but PO1 Jimmo says he and his teammates are hopeful that they will be in Japan when play kicks off in Oct. 2019.The CAF side’s inexperience as a team showed on the pitch in Edmonton as the British airmen easily dispatched their challengers with a lopsided 100-10 win. Over 30 players took part in the international match and they were competing for 23 spots and...

[caption id="attachment_19281" align="alignnone" width="591"] From left to right: Ordinary Seaman Basic Raelinn Parenteau, Ordinary Seaman Basic Konnor Issaluk, Ordinary Seaman David Inglangasuk. Photo by LS David Gariepy, MARPAC Imaging Services[/caption]NCdt S.L. Delaney, MARPAC PA ~This summer, 24 Indigenous youth from across Canada are gathered in Esquimalt for six-weeks of sharing culture and training with the Royal Canadian Navy. Now in its sixteenth year, the Raven Program invites Indigenous youth to experience the military lifestyle through immersive training that teaches basic military skills while honouring cultural customs. The current students have travelled from eight different provinces and territories, representing Métis, Inuit, and First Nations people. After arriving in Esquimalt, the students are sworn in as Naval Reserve members of the Canadian Armed Forces. From there, they dive right into the first phase of the program with a four-day culture camp in Nanoose Bay. There, they gather with Elders to learn Métis, Inuit and First Nations teachings. While partaking in team-building activities, raising a teepee and sharing in a sacred fire, the students are also building a foundation of trust in their peers and in themselves to carry them through the demanding military training that awaits.And the training is rigorous. Waking up at 5:00 a.m., the candidates fill their days learning new skills like first aid, orienteering and weapons handling, all the while maintaining a steady schedule of physical training, drill and inspections. In fact, in six short weeks, the students will earn their full Basic Military Qualification. Graduates can then elect to continue on as a Naval Reservist or transfer to the Regular Force. In the last five years, Raven has seen 168 graduates, with 21 members retained in the reserve force, and nine members transferring into the regular force. Beyond recruiting and retention, the program also builds awareness and fosters relationships...

[caption id="attachment_19278" align="alignnone" width="591"] HMCS Vancouver fires an Evolved Sea Sparrow Missile during a missile exercise while the ship participates in RIMPAC. In the background is Her Majesty’s Australian Ship (HMAS) Toowoomba. Photo by Lt(N) Tony Wright[/caption]Lt(N) Tony Wright and Lt(N) Clayton Erickson ~After completing Op Projection Asia-Pacific 18-01, which saw the ship patrol and conduct strategic outreach throughout the Western Pacific, HMCS Vancouver began the 2018 Rim of the Pacific exercise (RIMPAC) by conducting a missile firing exercise (MISSILEX), successfully launching two Evolved Sea Sparrow Missiles (ESSM). This MISSILEX served several important functions.  The event was both a test of the Royal Canadian Navy’s (RCN) tactics and procedures as well as a key opportunity to further technical and engineering knowledge. Staff from the Canadian Forces Maritime Warfare Centre (CFMWC), Naval Engineering Testing Establishment, and Fleet Maintenance Facility Cape Breton were on board to see how the ship’s systems behave in a realistic, operational scenario and collect detailed information on the ship’s radars, weapon systems, and command and control systems. It isn’t very often that the RCN gets a chance to do firings like this, so making the most of the opportunity to benefit force development and force generation by involving a wide range of personnel is important.The ship’s company began preparing for this exercise well before deploying on Op PROJECTION Asia-Pacific in April. During the ship’s Pacific voyage, staff from CFMWC, and Naval Fleet Schools Pacific and Atlantic joined Vancouver to conduct Missile Readiness Inspection (MRI) training for the Operations Department.This training phase ensured that Vancouver was ready to conduct the firings safely and in accordance with doctrine and procedures. MRI staff also inspected the ship’s technical readiness to ensure that Vancouver was materially able to support the test and research objectives.During MRI training, the Operations Department practiced fighting...

[caption id="attachment_19275" align="alignnone" width="591"] Photo by LCdr Erik Poirier[/caption]Lt(N) G. Alex Low ~NCdt Belanger, a reservist from HMCS Champlain, was on watch on PCT Raven 56 practising coastal navigation, during his Naval Warfare Officer (NWO) III course, in Desolation Sound when he spotted smoke rising from the shore on East Redonda Island and immediately reported to ship staff.On closer inspection, they saw that one of three newly built homes was engulfed in flames. Raven staff immediately notified the BC Wildfire Service and developed a plan to assist. Raven cautiously approached the area and launched a shore reconnaissance party by zodiac with Raven ’s Medical First Responder and Cook, LS Keddy onboard. The priority was to ensure that there were no casualties or personnel unaware of the unfolding events. With confirmed air assets from BC Wildfire Services approaching, and confirmation of no casualties, the shore party was later directed to evacuate the entire area. As the fire and the number of boats & observers grew, Raven and her zodiac enforced a waterborne perimeter around the shore fire, enabling the airborne response, both helicopter and fixed wing assets, to the affected areas.Awaiting the response, the crew of Raven embarked civilian personnel affected by the fire, providing them with provisions and shelter as most had been in the elements for some time. On holidays from North Carolina, many guests documented and shared the unfolding story on social media, while others sought the air conditioning and comfort of Raven’s training room.Raven’s encounter with a shore fire was a great introduction for young NWO trainees and Patrol Craft Training Unit staff to the dangers and responsibilities unexpectedly faced by Royal Canadian Navy personnel during standard patrols and training. The lessons of team coordination, keeping the ship, her company, and civilian personnel safe, as well as...

[caption id="attachment_19263" align="alignnone" width="591"] Ordinary Seaman Horvat. Photo by NCdt S.L. Delaney[/caption]NCdt S.L. Delaney, MARPAC PA OJT ~Summer employment has never been more robust for naval reservists. This year, the Primary Reserves have launched the Full-Time Summer Employment (FTSE) program that enhances the role and capability of the Reserves by offering full-time summer employment to reservists in their first four years of service. FTSE is a direct response to the Government of Canada’s commitment to force generation throughout the Royal Canadian Navy, and is a specific initiative in Strong, Secure, and Engaged, Canada’s Defence Policy.“We want to provide fresh and varied experiences for our sailors and encourage them to be proactive and engaged in furthering their careers,” says Leading Seaman Humphrey, one of two FTSE facilitators for the Pacific region.There are currently 74 new naval reservists, hailing from reserve divisions across the nation, employed on the West Coast. These sailors are predominantly post-secondary students for whom full-time summer employment is always in demand. Over the summer, the sailors can progress in their trades through specific coursing, and work placements are offered between courses to provide hands-on experience that complements classroom learning. Reservists have been welcomed to work on board HMC Ships Calgary, Edmonton, and Saskatoon, as well as within the Patrol Craft Training Unit and Fleet Maintenance Facility Cape Breton.LS Humphrey arranges placements that tailor the summer training experience for each member. “By working in a variety of short-term engagements, the sailors can galvanize their training and gain exposure to the array of duties they can expect to encounter within their military career,” he says.LS Moorhouse, the other FTSE facilitator for the Pacific region, says access to “definite, defined, and guaranteed summer employment allows reservists to coordinate their military training with their civilian schedules.”Members offered a basic military qualification or trade-specific...

Photo and story by SLt Louis Pierre Gosselier, Base PA OJT ~After reviewing the logo submissions for CFB Esquimalt’s upcoming premier event Defence on the Dock, one design stood out. The blush swoosh for waves and bold font, coupled with the tri-service badge, earned Acting Sub-Lieutenant Chantelle Klassen the win. “It immediately stood out; it is simple yet embraced the all-inclusive spirit of Defence on the Dock,” said Capt(N) Jason Boyd, Base Commander.The logo will be used on promotional material for the Sept. 30 event to be held at Ogden Point. A/SLt Klassen, a 24-year-old naval officer from Winnipeg, started doing graphic design as a hobby. “I was sketching some ideas and trying to adhere to the dock theme and thought the water under the docks would be a good image for this particular logo,” she said. “I always had an artistic interest and I’ve been using [computer] programs since I was young.” Lookout graphic designers will smooth out the design, create a french version, and prepare it for use on posters, social media videos, and other promotional tools. Defence on the Dock takes place at the Ogden Point cruise terminal A on Sept. 30 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and is open to the public. The event will highlight Canadian Armed Forces personnel and the work they do in defence of Canada and beyond and showcase their equipment.

SLt M.X. Déry, Contributor ~In this series of commentaries on bicycle safety, I address issues that cyclists face every day from motorists, pedestrians and even other cyclists. Most of what I write about has happened to me personally and are things that constantly grind my gears. I speak with subject matter experts to back up my complaints and perhaps after I have vented my spleen, cycling to work will be safer for everyone.More than once a week I have to slow down, stop, or ring my little brass bell because a pedestrian, lacking in situational awareness, has decided to cross the street where they shouldn’t. Don’t misunderstand me, I give way at crosswalks, as all cyclists must, but that is not what I am discussing here. I’m talking about the worst kind of pedestrian: the jaywalker.I regularly encounter a jaywalker who, when it is dark and quiet in the morning, decides to cross the street in the middle of nowhere without checking both sides because they don’t hear a car.With the increase in fully electric cars, cyclists aren’t the only quiet vehicles anymore, so relying on sound for a warning of danger could be deadly. Joggers, particularly with earbuds, are also often to blame for making the roads a nightmare for cyclists because they use the bike lane despite lacking in wheels, a seat, a frame, a bell… you get what I’m driving at.According to the Military Police, the top infraction they see committed by pedestrians on base, is jaywalking, which they regularly ticket.There are designated crosswalks and stop signs all over the base, but I see pedestrians cut across the road daily. To add insult to injury, they often cross in a diagonal pattern and cannot see vehicles approaching in their peripheral vision. Crossing perpendicular to the road isn’t just...

[caption id="attachment_19253" align="alignnone" width="592"] (Right photo) From left: Spitfire pilot Duke Warren; then-Minister of Veterans Affairs Greg Thompson; and Spitfire pilot Stocky Edwards meet up to view the refurbishment project of Spitfire Y2-K on July 28, 2007, in Comox.[/caption]Scott Stanfield, Comox Valley Record ~A rare Second World War aircraft returns to Comox this summer, coinciding with the launch of a legacy fund named after local legend Stocky Edwards.Efforts to re-construct Spitfire Y2-K began in Comox, British Columbia, nearly 20 years ago, but the plane has been at Vintage Wings Canada in Gatineau, Québec, for the past three years for wing assembly, finishing work and test flying. “She’s finally coming home for a visit,” says RCAF Colonel (Retired) Terry Chester. “It’s the culmination of 18 years of work.”Departing Gatineau in mid-July, the Spitfire will spend a week at AirVenture in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, for the 100th anniversary of the Royal Air Force. “It then begins a journey that has never, ever been taken by a Spitfire before—across Canada,” Col Chester says.The aircraft will route through the U.S., come up through Winnipeg, Manitoba, and arrive in Comox in early August. “They don’t want to go over the top of the Great Lakes for very good reason,” he says. “This is a single engine [Second World War] airplane, and if their engine quits, they don’t have a place to land. So, they’re airport-hopping out here.”Pilot Dave Hadfield, brother of astronaut Chris Hadfield, will fly Spitfire Y2-K, which will be here for the Homecoming Celebration and carry out a fly past of the Comox Marina on British Columbia Day on Aug. 6.A fundraising campaign has been initiated to cover the costs of flying the aircraft across Canada, which covers fuel, aircraft fluids, maintenance and logistics. The campaign includes a sponsorship program, sales of souvenir items, and a banquet at 19 Wing on Aug. 8.Wing Commander James “Stocky” Edwards—an Order of Canada recipient—will be the guest of honour at the banquet, which will seat 350 to 400...

[caption id="attachment_19250" align="alignnone" width="300"] Rear-Admiral Bill Truelove[/caption]Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~Last Thursday, five days after his 55th birthday, Canada’s Defence Staff Attaché to Washington, Rear-Admiral Bill Truelove called it a career and set out on a new uncharted course: his retirement. A Change of Command ceremony was held at the Embassy of Canada, Washington, DC, July 19, presided over by the Vice Chief of the Defence Staff Lieutenant-General P.F. Wynnyk. Rear Admiral Truelove handed over his duties to Major General Simon Hetherington.RAdm Truelove says he savoured and enjoyed every moment of his days in the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN), including his final appointment as Canada’s Defence Attaché to the U.S. “To come here to Washington, D.C., and culminate my career as Defence Attaché has been incredible,” said RAdm Trulove during an over-the-phone interview. “Our military enjoys a great historical relationship with the United States military and these have indeed been interesting times to be here.”For three years he worked as the senior accredited military officer representing the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) in Washington. Top on his agenda was maintaining and strengthening Canada’s relationship with the United States military and advising David MacNaughton, Canada’s ambassador to the United States. In his posting, he and his wife Brenda became Deans of the Washington Corps of Military Attachés, leading an organization that includes military representatives of 120 nations.The Change of Command closes a 37-year career. While his career finishes in the United States, his last appointment in Canada was Commander Maritimes Forces Pacific and Joint Task Force Pacific. He might never have reached that pinnacle position if it weren’t for helping hands early in his career. A vision problem was discovered in his left eye while he was attending Royal Roads Military College. It nearly led to his discharge. If not for the support...

[caption id="attachment_19246" align="alignnone" width="590"] Corporal Retired Scott Casey dips his rear tire in the waters of the Atlantic Ocean at the start of last year’s Rolling Barrage.[/caption]Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~The haunting memories from a United Nations Peacekeeping mission in the Balkans in 1992 was the pivotal reason Corporal (Retired) Scott Casey became the President of non-profit Military Minds Inc. and founder of the motorcycle rally The Rolling Barrage.Paralyzed by the UN’s rules of engagement during the mission, the Royal Canadian Regiment soldier was forced to witness the killing of a mother and child as they carried water back to their home. The horrific memories of his seven-month deployment in the war-torn region still haunt him to this day and are the root of his Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).“You can’t forget something like that; you just work through it and try to put it behind you,” said Casey. “All you can do is move forward.”Two years after the Balkans mission he retired from the military. Fifteens years after that he saw a need to join Military Minds and connect the thousands of military and civilian first responders suffering from PTSD to support programs. Tattooed on his arm are 53 bullets. Thirty nine of those bullets represent the lives of Canadian soldiers who died in action, while 14 represent the lives of soldiers who died from suicide since his 1992 tour in the Balkans. It’s a staggering number, says Casey. “I still experience PTSD symptoms to this day. Once you have it, it’s a chemical change in your body and it doesn’t go away,” he explains. “But that’s why I have created a national motorcycle rally to create awareness and understanding about PTSD and operational stress injury (OSI).”Now in its second year, The Rolling Barrage takes motorcyclists across Canada – from...

Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~Two senior naval officers at CFB Esquimalt relinquished their commands last week, and are now going down separate career paths, but doing it together. Married couple Commodore Marta Mulkins and Rear-Admiral Jeff Zwick have signed over their commands, packed their household, and are set to move to Ottawa. For Cmdre Mulkins, it is the Naval Reserve (NAVRES) Command that she handed over to Commodore Michael Hopper last Friday. Having reached the pinnacle of her 33-year career, she heads back to civilian life and a job in the Federal Public Service.The day before her change of command, husband of 12 years Jeff relinquished his command of Canadian Fleet Pacific to Commodore Angus Topshee.His next charge is Chief of Force Development, a Vice Chief of the Defence Staff branch position at NDHQ.Even though she’s heading full-time into a civilian job, Cmdre Mulkins will keep one foot in the naval reserves, serving as a part-time sailor. “I would say commanding NAVRES has probably been one of the richest, most rewarding experiences of my life,” said Cmdre Mulkins. “Being based in Victoria and in the heart of Maritime Forces Pacific and working with its fantastic leaders and staff has just been simply extraordinary.”As head of NAVRES she managed the 24 Naval Reserve stone frigates and approximately 3,000 reserve sailors. While that might seem impressive on its own, one might argue her greatest achievement is ploughing pathways for women in the navy. In 2003, she became the first female officer to command a warship in the Royal Canadian Navy, serving as commanding officer of HMCS Kingston, and then later headed Ottawa’s Naval Reserve Division HMCS Carleton. Other notables in her work portfolio include head of Strategic Communications at National Defence Headquarters in Ottawa and a six-month deployment to Afghanistan in 2006 as...

[caption id="attachment_19239" align="alignnone" width="591"] Rear Admiral Bob Auchterlonie, Deputy Commander Combined Task Force Royal Canadian Navy, and Rear Admiral Ido Ben-Moshe, Head of Operations of the Israeli Navy, meet at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam during the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise. Photo by U.S. Navy Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jason Isaacs[/caption]Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~Rear-Admiral Bob Auchterlonie’s first order of business as the new Commander of Maritime Forces Pacific (MARPAC) was to jet to Hawaii and take up post as Deputy Commander of the Combined Task Force for the Rim of the Pacific military exercise – dubbed RIMPAC.Now underway, RIMPAC is a biennial land, air and sea military exercise carried out in and around the waters of Hawaii and Southern California, involving 25,000 military personnel from 25 nations. Canada’s armed forces has substantial assets and personnel in the 26th edition of the exercise, including HMC Ships Vancouver, Ottawa, Yellowknife and Whitehorse, all Pacific Fleet warships under RAdm Auchterlonie’s new command.“It’s very exciting to be involved in this capacity; this is the biggest maritime exercise in the world. Canada, along with the United States and Australia, are RIMPAC’s founding members, and RIMPAC provides a great opportunity for Canadian Armed Forces members to work with partners from around the globe.”In his RIMPAC role, RAdm Auchterlonie works closely with Vice-Admiral John Alexander, Commander U.S. Third Fleet, to co-ordinate the multiple components of the combined task force. One of the main goals of RIMPAC is to foster and sustain those cooperative relationships. Those relationships play a role in helping to ensure the safety and security of sea lanes and the world’s interconnected oceans. This year’s exercise theme is Capable, Adaptive Partners. Building on that premise, drills span the scope of operations, from disaster relief and maritime security operations to sea control in today’s...

Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~Canadian Armed Forces newspapers have once again proved they can compete on a national stage.Lookout, Trident and the Shilo Stag took first, second and third place in the best CAF newspaper category of News Media Canada’s yearly Canadian Community Newspaper competition.“Base papers have always been an essential tool for connecting the Defence Team with the local community,” said Capt(N) Jason Boyd, Base Commander and publisher of Lookout. “The team here at the Lookout excels not only through the stories they write, but also through the innovative ways they work to ensure CFB Esquimalt’s story is heard. I am proud of my team at the Lookout for the recognition they have received.”Even more impressive is the base newspapers’ individual wins in the open categories where community newspapers across Canada vie for a top placement. Lookout took another first place in the Best News Feature Photo – circulation up to 3,999 for “First Kiss” taken by LS Mike Goluboff, MARPAC Imaging Technician. Shilo Stag scooped a second-place win for Best Photo Essay - circulation up to 3,999 by Jules Xavier, and Trident took second place for Best Spot News photo – circulation 12,500 and over for “Staying on their feet” by Mona Ghiz. “It is a testament to the quality of base papers that three of them, including the Lookout, have been recognized in categories over and above the Base Newspaper category,” added the Base Commander.LS Goluboff’s winning image was a candid shot of SLt Kassandra O’Rourke smooching her partner of seven years Eleni Holmes on HMCS Ottawa’s gangplank after the warship returned home from Poseidon Cutlass 17 in August 2017. “The win is also recognition of the quality of CAF Image Techs that a photo taken by MARPAC Imaging’s LS Mike Goluboff is named best news feature photo for...

[caption id="attachment_19228" align="alignnone" width="591"] Photo credit: NCdt S.L. Delaney[/caption]NCdt S.L. Delaney - MARPAC PA OfficeHow can SISIP Financial reach more members and help them through financial issues?Shannon Childs, Financial Services Coordinator, determined the answer is food and fun.On Wednesday, July 11, SISIP Financial hosted a client appreciation barbecue at the Naden field and invited participants to join in a full-sized version of the game of Real Life.Childs envisioned the interactive game board because she wanted “to engage members in an enjoyable activity while allowing them to discover how our products tie in with everyday life choices.”The SISIP Financial Esquimalt team brought their ideas together and created the board using a giant tarp and twister tiles, designing the game so players earn SISIP Financial points as they move along the board, passing through different stages of life—from university to retirement and everything in between. As participants travelled their selected course, they earned points to cash in as multiple entries in the prize draw.Local military members, DND employees, and their families came out to partake in the event, and the inaugural game of Real Life provided a fun and new way to consider the value of financial planning.SISIP Financial has been an integral part of Canada’s military community for close to 50 years (since 1969), providing financial solutions that consider the unique financial needs that accompany a military lifestyle.In the words of Wade Walters, SISIP Financial Esquimalt Branch Manager, “The most rewarding part of this job is using an educational approach to financial advice and hearing our clients say, ‘I know way more now than I did when I first came in.’ ”SISIP Financial advisors can address the financial situation of every client in terms of their savings, investments, insurance and overall financial needs. They also throw a mighty fine barbecue.For more information...

We're our own worst enemy!SLt M.X. Déry - ContributorIn this series of commentaries on bicycle safety, I want to address issues that cyclists face every day from motorists, pedestrians and even other cyclists. Most of what I will write about has happened to me personally and are things that constantly grind my gears. I’ll be speaking with subject matter experts to back up my complaints and perhaps after I have vented my spleen, cycling to work will be safer for everyone.Sharing the road with motor vehicles and pedestrians is difficult as a cyclist, but the hardest obstacles to deal with are fellow cyclists. Pedestrians mostly stay on the sidewalks where bicycles are prohibited, and the ubiquity of bike lanes means interactions with motor vehicles can be limited, but other cyclists are unavoidable.When speaking with local police, the top infractions by cyclists are failure to stop at red lights and stop signs, failure to signal, and failure to wear the appropriate safety equipment.I see it all the time on my bike. A fellow cyclist will burn through a stop sign as if it wasn’t there or ignore a traffic light because there are no cars that they can see. I’ve seen pedestrians jump out of the way because they expected a cyclist to stop, and I’ve almost been hit while on my bike for the same reason.This is due to cyclists not understanding they are vehicles under the BC Motor Vehicle Act (BCMVA), required to obey all traffic signs. Ignorance of this fact won’t save them from a ticket when on base. Military Police (MP) are empowered to issue tickets under the BCMVA on DND property. That infraction will run them $167.Going the wrong way down a one-way street, such as near the Chiefs’ and Petty Officers’ mess is another example. I...

[caption id="attachment_19219" align="alignnone" width="591"] Her Majesty's Canadian Ship REGINA's CH-124 Sea King helicopter deploys flares during a routine flight operation in the Indian Ocean on August 14, 2014. Photo by Cpl Michael Bastien, MARPAC Imaging Services[/caption] LCol Travis Chapman - 443 (MH) Squadron Commanding OfficerDesigned in the late 1950s and procured by Canada through a dynamic acquisition program in the early 1960s, the CH124 Sea King helicopter has served Canadians with distinction since May 24, 1963. Such longevity, combined with avionics and mission system upgrades and the utility of a medium lift helicopter, has created a legacy that ignites passion spanning multiple generations unlike any other Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) asset.    To pay tribute to the history of Canada’s esteemed maritime helicopter (MH), Maj Trevor Cadeau, 443 Squadron Aircraft Maintenance Engineering Officer, initiated a project with technical and operational staff at Director Aerospace Equipment Program Management (Maritime) and 1 Canadian Air Division, in December 2017. He sought the necessary approvals to change CH12417’s modern livery to one that recalled a bygone era. The requested paint scheme was inspired by the original Royal Canadian Navy livery from 1963, and previously applied in 2010 to commemorate the Canadian Naval Centennial.  The success of the latest livery project can be traced to a large team of personnel within Patricia Bay, Shearwater, Ottawa, and Winnipeg. Of course, once painted, it had to be reassembled for its cross-country ferry.Not only does the special paint herald the Sea King’s history and exceptional contributions to RCN and RCAF operations over the last 55 years, but the project presented an uncommon professional development opportunity for many Aircraft Structures technicians. Those involved were able to exercise their own painting skill sets, as well as use the new paint booth in the 12 AMS hangar in Shearwater, NS. In addition to CH12417, team members...

[caption id="attachment_19215" align="alignnone" width="591"] Photo by Leading Seaman David Gariepy, MARPAC Imaging Services[/caption]Candidates for Raven Basic Military Qualification wait for the Swearing-In Ceremony at the Naval Officer Training Centre, July 5. The six-week Raven Aboriginal Youth Employment Program is an outreach program designed to build bridges into the Aboriginal communities in Canada, and to make Aboriginal youth aware of potential military or civilian careers with the Department of National Defence. Commander Julian Elbourne, Commanding Officer of Naval Training School (Pacific), conducts the Swearing-In Ceremony.

[caption id="attachment_19211" align="alignnone" width="591"] Lt(N) Sean Milley, NCdt Carrie Magannon, NCdt Katie Hembruff practice tacking and gybing while underway to Comox on June 13. Photo by CPO1 Michael Vincelette.[/caption] OS Cedrick Delisle - ContributorI decided to join the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) a little over a year ago. I did so out of a desire to find a new work environment where collaboration, teamwork, learning and healthy living were at the forefront. A year later, I am still baffled by the vast amount of opportunities made available to me. One that encompasses so many aspects of what I was looking for and surpassed my expectations is the RCN Sail.RCN Sail is the navy’s sail training program, built around the simple premise of learning to navigate on a sailboat. It is a great way for sailors to familiarize themselves with seamanship, leadership and teamwork while developing good work ethic and learning a great deal. Surrounded by ISPA (International Sail and Power Association) qualified instructors and using structured course material, students learn a range of skills, from basic competency as a crewmember to coastal and offshore navigation.At it’s core, the program uses two identical CS36 sailboats for the practical aspect of training, STV Tuna and STV Goldcrest, the latter of which I had the opportunity to call home for the last two weeks. During a sail training trip that spoke to the spirit of the program, plus the navy’s values as I perceive them, I experienced the many ways this program helps prepare sailors for the rest of their career within the fleet.We left Esquimalt harbour and over a few days navigated towards Comox, sailing through the Gulf Islands, and stopping in many ports along the way. This gave each student a chance to practice the skills learned prior to the trip, and get firsthand experience applying these skills while STV Goldcrest sailed to its destination and back. We sailed in various wind and sea conditions and appreciated how weather and current affected our...

[caption id="attachment_19204" align="alignnone" width="591"] From left to right: LS Daniel D’Sa, CPO2 Yannick Gagné, CPO2 Yves Ouellet and LS Mike Hodgson pose with Joe Lescene’s Harley-Davidson at the Military Police National Motorcylcle Relay start July 7 in front of the Naden Drill Shed. Photo courtesy of SLt Louis Pierre Gosselin/BPAO[/caption]SLt Louis-Pierre Gosselin - Base PA OJTWhen Joe Lescene, a long-time supporter of the Military Police National Motorcycle Relay, died in a tragic accident last year, his friends made sure his legacy – and his bike – were honoured in the annual relay.The former Petty Officer Second Class died after he fell from a cliff while on vacation in Oregon last September. The loss was a blow not only to his friends and family, but to the Relay, an event that helps raise money for the Military Police Fund for Blind Children. In recognition of this tragedy and his contribution to the Military Police National Motorcycle Relay, his friends CPO2 Yannick Gagné, CPO2 Yves Ouellet, LS Daniel D’Sa and LS Mike Hodgson decided to honour him during the Vancouver Island portion. They renamed it the Joe Lescene Memorial Ride.“He was a great friend and someone you could count on,” said CPO2 Gagné in front of the Naden Drill Shed before kicking off the Joe Lescene Memorial Ride Saturday July 7.CPO2 Gagné mustered what he called the ‘guts’ to call Lescene’s family and ask if he could use Lescene’s bike in the ride.That is how he arrived on July 7 under an overcast sky in the parking lot beside the Drill Shed, riding the flaming-orange Harley-Davidson of his late friend.A further tribute was built by Master Seaman Philip Thorsteinson, helped by LS Hodgson, in the form of a memorial box made of shedua, a special West African wood, resistant to the passing of...

[caption id="attachment_19198" align="alignnone" width="591"] Commander Dave Mangin of the Canadian Submarine Force takes a break from paddling his kayak during an Outward Bound event near Grand Manan, New Brunswick in June 2014. Top right: Cdr Mangin hikes the Columbia Ice Fields during an Outward Bound expedition in August 2012.[/caption]Peter Mallett - Staff WriterA senior commander with the Canadian Submarine Force will fulfill his dream this summer of paddling the waters of the far north’s South Nahanni River.Commander Mike Mangin, Deputy Commander Operations of the Canadian Submarine Force, will be part of Outward Bound Canada’s 10-day canoe expedition on the scenic, but fast-moving river in the Northwest Territories. The expedition is part of Outward Bound Canada’s Reach Beyond Fundraising Expeditions, which are a unique opportunity for people to achieve a personal aspiration while making a difference.“Paddling the Nahanni River has been a life-long goal of mine and now that I’m getting close to the dates the excitement is mounting,” said Cdr Mangin.After two days of preparation for the trip in Fort Simpson, N.W.T., the 12-person team, including two guides, will fly to Virginia Falls and set off in canoes on Aug. 5. They plan to arrive at their destination at Nahanni Butte on Aug. 14 after covering a distance of approximately 240 kilometres. The fast-moving, white water course features several rapids and will take them through the Nahanni National Park Reserve and past the majestic Mackenzie and Selwyn Mountains.Cdr Mangin, 50, began his career with Canada’s navy in 1991, and in his current job plans submarine operations and scheduling. His busy work schedule inhibited him from taking part in Outward Bound’s canoe training camp in the spring. He also confesses to be a rookie paddler with limited experience in a canoe. Learning the mechanics and strokes of a canoeist is his biggest...

[caption id="attachment_19193" align="alignnone" width="591"] Photo by Diana Battung, Happy Bee Events and Studios[/caption]SLt M.X. Déry - MARPAC PAFor the second year in a row, Mrs. Vancouver Island BC has been won by a military spouse.On July 2, Jane Vermeulen, Mrs. Vancouver Island BC 2017 and wife of Lt(N) Miklos Kovacs, crowned her friend, Jenn Sheffield, as Mrs. Vancouver Island BC 2018.Vermeulen knows her friend will do well in the role and was thrilled to be the one to crown her. The pageant is something she suggests for all women.“It is a little bit outside our ordinary lives,” said Vermeulen. “I work as a vet and I have two children, so it is either scrubs or jeans, so wearing a gown for a night is great.”A veteran of pageantry, having been crowned Miss Cape Breton in the 90s, Sheffield, wife of LCdr Robin Sheffield, was convinced by Vermeulen to compete and is pleased with her results in the provincial the Miss BC pageant, and how pageantry has evolved; throughout the weekend, there were workshops on leadership, healthy living, empowering women and even self-defence.“It is less about women’s bodies,” she said. “It’s now more about our skills, our minds, what we think, and our platforms, which to me is the beautiful piece.”Open to women from 14 to 54, the Miss BC pageant focuses heavily on charity and personal expression, with the breakdown of the competition being sportswear, evening gown, a private interview with the judging panel and a public on-stage interview in the final showcase.The goal is to help women create and promote a charitable platform. For Sheffield, her platform is one of deep significance.“I’m developing a free yoga program for women and girls who have gone through sexual violence and are survivors,” she said. “I’m a survivor myself and so I feel...

[caption id="attachment_19187" align="alignnone" width="591"] Photo by LS Sisi Xu, MARPAC Imaging Services[/caption]By Lt(N) Paul Pendergast - Maritime Forces Pacific PASailors from HMCS Calgary once again donned their Smithbilt hats at the 2018 Calgary Stampede.Twenty-eight Calgary sailors participated in the 10-day event as part of an annual namesake city visit and were joined by the National Band of the Naval Reserve, as well as personnel from the Naval Security Team, Naval Tactical Operations Group, Canadian Forces Fleet School (Esquimalt), Fleet Maintenance Facility Cape Breton and HMCS Tecumseh.This year marked the 106th edition of the ‘Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth,’ and officially kicked off when the navy led the military contingent in the Stampede Parade. Thousands of Calgarians lining the streets stood and cheered enthusiastically when the sailors and soldiers passed by.On the Stampede grounds, the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) was joined by members from the Canadian Army and Royal Canadian Air Force at the Canadian Armed Forces display.The crew of Calgary made a stop at the Foothills Medical Centre to donate $3,350 from their charity fund to the Calgary Health Trust in support of the Burn Unit.Calgary raises money for the Trust and other charities through various activities, including 50/50 draws, barbecues and their Cowboy Up event, which brings Calgarians and friends of the crew on board to meet the Calgary crew and experience a day on the ship.Money donated by Calgary in previous years has been used for purchasing priority equipment, staff education and research for the Burn Unit. “The Calgary Stampede attracts in excess of 1.2 million visitors to the grounds,” said Commander Blair Saltel, Commanding Officer of Calgary. “That provides the RCN an occasion to inform Canadians and visitors from abroad on our capabilities and accomplishments. Furthermore, it gives my exceptional sailors the chance to excite potential recruits about the opportunities...

SLt M.X. Déry - ContributorIn this series of commentaries on bicycle safety, I want to address issues that cyclists face every day from motorists, pedestrians and even other cyclists. Most of what I will write about has happened to me personally and are things that constantly grind my gears. I’ll be speaking with subject matter experts to back up my complaints and perhaps after I have vented my spleen, cycling to work will be safer for everyone.First off, I have been riding a bicycle for three decades now. It has been my main mode of transportation for most of my life; I didn’t bother getting a driver’s licence until I was 30 years old.For the last three years, I have been riding my motor-assisted cycle (MAC) to work and before you complain that it is not a real bicycle, allow me to explain what a MAC is, practically and legally.Practically it means that it can provide extra force while riding, but even my 350 watt hub motor is not enough to get me up the hill outside the dockyard gate without me doing most of the work. On a flat surface, once I’ve got it moving, it can accelerate up to 32kph, the maximum allowed in B.C. according to the Motor Vehicle Act. Legally, the motor must be electric, be no more than 500 watts, must cut out at 32kph and there must be functional pedals attached. If it meets all these requirements, the MAC does not require a licence, insurance or plates, unlike a Limited Speed Motorcycle (LSM), which requires all of the above. Electric scooters therefore walk a thin line between MAC and LSM. They are sold in B.C. with detachable pedals, speed limiters than can be turned off and motors that are advertised as 500+W. Recently a fellow...

Darlene Blakley, Navy Public Affairs Ottawa ~One of the first sailors to re-enrol through the Royal Canadian Navy’s (RCN) Skilled Re-Enrolment Initiative is happy to be back in uniform.“There were a lot of things I missed throughout my time away from the navy,” says Leading Seaman Steve Auchu. “I am looking forward to catching up with friends and sailing with them again.”Due to attrition rates in recent years, certain Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) occupations have become stressed due to the lack of personnel. As a result, the RCN decided to reach out to former sailors in certain occupations, including the Naval Combat Information Operator, Naval Electronic Sensor Operator, Sonar Operator, Naval Communicator, Weapons Engineering Technician and Marine Technician occupations to invite them to re-enrol into the Regular Force in their former occupation and rank.LS Auchu, a Naval Electronic Sensor Operator, decided to take the RCN up on the offer. He re-enrolled June 7 and now works in HMCS Halifax.He is well acquainted with the work, as he served in three warships, St. John’s, Toronto and Ville de Québec, and was deployed on Operation Caribbe and to the Middle East.He missed the camaraderie of the military most of all. “There is no organization that emphasizes teamwork like the Canadian Armed Forces, and working together through adversity helps build some of those lifelong bonds.”Other big factors in deciding to re-enrol were the pension and benefits. “It’s nearly impossible to compare the care and future planning provided by the Canadian Armed Forces. I wanted to ensure I could provide for my family now and in the long term.”Having been employed both as a sailor and as a civilian, LS Auchu has learned the difference between the two. “The biggest difference is the rigid structure and daily use of the chain of command in the...

[caption id="attachment_19104" align="alignnone" width="591"] Graham Dixon-MacCallum (left) and Lieutenant-Colonel Mike Onieu, Base Commander (right), release the first burrowing owl into the CFB Suffield National Wildlife Area on May 3 as part of a new head-starting project to help this endangered species. Photo by Warrant Officer Derrick Steeves[/caption]Jocelyn Antonovitch, CFB Suffield Public Affairs ~The tiny Burrowing Owl, weighing a little more than a baseball and standing as high as a pigeon, is a rare sight at Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Suffield.“People who are not from the Great Plains region of North America do not know they exist and find it amazing that owls nest underground,” said Graham Dixon-MacCallum, Conservation Research Associate, Calgary Zoo.Despite their name, Burrowing Owls do not make a burrow on their own, but instead occupy those that have been abandoned by burrowing mammals, and make modifications where needed.CFB Suffield joined forces with the Calgary Zoo, and Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) on a head-starting project to improve the survival rate of the endangered Burrowing Owl.The head-starting project takes a few owlets, raises them in captivity over the winter in the Calgary Zoo’s offsite Devonian Wildlife Conservation Centre, and allows them to grow large enough to be released as breeding adults.ECCC and Calgary Zoo scientists want to test the theory that increasing the owls’ first-year survival may in turn reduce the rate of population decline in Canada.“They are not on their last legs, but their population is steadily declining. They are becoming more and more rare,” said Troy Wellicome, Senior Species at Risk Biologist, Canadian Wildlife Service, ECCC. “If we did nothing for 20 years, it is debatable if they would still be around in Canada.”The Calgary Zoo and ECCC returned four pairs of owls to the CFB Suffield National Wildlife Area this spring, where they had been captured...