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[caption id="attachment_12412" align="alignnone" width="300"] The Commanding Officer of HMCS Ottawa, Cdr Sylvain Belair, addresses the group at the conclusion of the scheduled day sail. Photo by Cpl Brent Kenny, MARPAC Imaging Services[/caption]Capt Cheryl Major, RCSU(P) ~More than 200 sea cadets from nine Vancouver Island communities gathered in Victoria April 9-10 for a training weekend that included a day sail in HMCS Ottawa and an Admiral’s Ceremonial Divisions inspection.On Saturday the crew and cadets put the ship through its paces at full speed, up to 30 knots, and heeling over 25 to 30 degrees during manoeuvers. After the demonstration, cadets spent time with sailors at 13 activity stations that showcased the functions of daily life and the rhythm of a Canadian warship, including weapons, fire-fighting, navigation and command, damage control, boarding and rescue.Cadets were even treated to a simulated multi-threat warfare scenario in the operations room.“Spending a day in HMCS Ottawa is an experience I’ll never forget,” said Cadet Naval Seaman Clara Jager, of 136 Amphion Royal Canadian Sea Cadet Corps in Nanaimo. “There’s more to the navy than I ever thought there was. I’m so excited about all the adventures I’ll have as a sea cadet.”    On Sunday all cadets were inspected by Rear-Admiral Gilles Couturier, Commander Maritime Forces Pacific, during an Admiral’s Ceremonial Divisions parade.The parade included a massed band and several promotions and recognitions. This is the first time a divisional parade has been held for Vancouver Island in more than a decade.“The Cadet Program helps thousands of young people grow into well-rounded, community-minded and experienced young adults,” said RAdm Couturier.“Spending time with these great young Canadians and future leaders of this country has truly been inspiring and I want to personally thank everyone involved in supporting our cadets and making this program a success in every way...

DNDCanada Company, the leader in military employment transition, in partnership with Military Family Services, has launched the METSpouse Program – a pilot program connecting the spouses of active, reserve and retired members of the Canadian Armed Forces with transportable careers.Leveraging Canada Company’s Military Employment Transition (MET) program, METSpouse will focus on providing this untapped resource of highly skilled, adaptable and motivated employees with career training, mentorship opportunities, and a database of mobile, portable and “telecommutable” jobs that fit the realities of being a military spouse.“The METSpouse Program recognizes that the spouses of our military and veterans face unique employment realities and challenges,” said Canada Company President, Angela Mondou. “For Canada Company, METSpouse is a chance to put our expertise to work for the whole military family, and to create more opportunities for Canadian businesses to benefit from our remarkable military.”The METSpouse Program will help military spouses find gainful and meaningful opportunities through an already established network of national employers. As part of the pilot, METSpouse is now available at select Military Family Resource Centres in seven regions across Canada: Ottawa, Halifax, Montreal, Shilo, Toronto, Valcartier and Winnipeg.For more information visit:www.canadacompany.ca/canadacompany/met/en/index.jsp

[caption id="attachment_12401" align="alignnone" width="300"] Members of Fleet Diving Unit (Pacific) show the flag underneath the ice as part of ICE EX 2016.[/caption]LCdr Desmond James, MARPAC PA~Six members of Fleet Diving Unit Pacific recently had the opportunity to operate in Arctic conditions. They worked with allies from the United States Navy and Royal Navy during Ice Exercise 2016 (ICEX 2016).Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) sailors completed ice dives and filled other key operational roles, such as the Range Safety Officer (RSO).Lt(N) John Slack, an RSO at this year’s ICEX, monitored conditions for cracks in the ice that could threaten operations.“This is a very dynamic environment to be working in, where the environment around you is constantly changing and moving,” said Lt(N) Slack. “You look around the ice floe and realize that no one has ever been there before and likely never will be again; it truly is one of the world’s last frontiers.”In the short time the RCN was on site, the camp location had moved 149 nautical miles to the west because of the ice floe, an indication of the challenging conditions.ICEX 2016 is a U.S. exercise developed to train military members in the Arctic environment to refine and validate procedures, which required equipment. It took place this year in March in the Beaufort Sea at a location approximately 160 nm north of Prudhoe Bay, Alaska.

Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~An HMCS Regina supply technician is being hailed for his heroic actions by his ship’s crew for administering life-saving CPR to a man in downtown Victoria last week.On the morning of April 14, Cpl Christopher Pearson was travelling to work when at approximately 7 a.m. he came across an unconscious male lying on the ground at the corner of Douglas St. and Yates St. Cpl Pearson said the man had stopped breathing and appeared to be suffering from a drug overdose.Using first aid training, he assessed the man’s medical condition and then administered cardiopulmonary resuscitation while a bystander called 9-1-1. The victim regained consciousness before emergency services arrived on the scene and was transported to hospital.“When I arrived on the scene his body was like a limp noodle and he was unresponsive,” said Cpl Pearson. “After I administered CPR and saw that he had started breathing again, and EMS crews had arrived on the scene, it was a great feeling to know that I was able to help him out of a bad situation.”Regina Coxswain, CPO1 Alan McNaul congratulated Cpl Pearson, noting his actions were symbolic of the “readiness of CAF personnel” to spring into and provide medical assistance when needed.“His confidence and leadership were displayed when he established control of the medical emergency scene and performed CPR, potentially saving the life of a community member,” said CPO1 McNaul. “Cpl Pearson is a strong example of what leadership looks like regardless of rank or level within the Canadian Armed Forces.”At press time further details about the incident and an update on the status of the victim were unavailable.

[caption id="attachment_11455" align="alignnone" width="300"] What's the future of DND? Have your voice heard.[/caption]Source: D.N.D.What is the future of Defence, and how should the Defence Team of tomorrow look?Canadians will get to have their say in shaping the Nation’s defence policy through a series of collaborative and interactive public consultations, undertaken by the federal government.On April 6, Harjit Singh Sajjan, Minister of National Defence, announced the Government of Canada’s (GoC’s) intent to consult with Canadians about the future of Defence.The objective of the public consultations is to promote the governement’s commitment to open and transparent dialogue with Canadians, and other key stakeholders, including members of the Defence Team, in the development of the new Defence Policy.These consultation sessions are focused on a number of themes and priorities, but focus on three fundamental areas of enquiry:What are the main threats and challenges to Canadian national security?What role do you see for the military in addressing potential threats?How should the Canadian Armed Forces be equipped and resourced to carry out these tasks?  These discussions will take place in cities across Canada from April to July. All Canadians are encouraged participate online www.defenceconsultations.ca/online-workbook.To learn more about contributing, visit the government’s newly launched consultations portal at Defence Policy Review http://dgpaapp.forces.gc.ca/en/defence-policy-review/index.asp.

[caption id="attachment_12358" align="alignnone" width="300"] PO1 Robert Franklin receives his cash prize for weighing in at first place for the “Biggest Loser” competition. A fitness challenge where members pushed themselves to lose weight and get fit while at sea.[/caption]LS Sergej Krivenko, HMCS Vancouver ~Health, wellness and physical fitness are aspirations sometimes difficult to achieve and maintain during a deployment.  In order to break free from this typical rut, several initiatives were launched on board HMCS Vancouver, including the embarkation of a Personal Support Programs (PSP) fitness instructor and establishing a routine of fitness windows in the flex, which were treated as sacrosanct “Maslowian” needs.In the same way a flex planner would not dare alter the meal routine on board, Vancouver’s fitness routines were treated no differently.With the playing field leveled and the conditions for success set, man’s, and woman’s, competitive nature took hold and folks began to wonder – who would be the biggest loser?  As Vancouver departed Esquimalt Feb. 1 for SouthPloy, the participants of the ship’s “Biggest Loser” health and wellness challenge lined up outside sickbay for the official weigh-in. The event, organized by PO2 Charles Leblond, had competitors paying a $20 entry fee and weigh-in during each port visit.The winner would be declared based on the greatest percentage of body weight lost over the course of 60 days.The method was simple – diet and exercise.Assisting us with our goals, Matt Kingstone, the ship’s embarked PSP fitness instructor, took time to coach competitors about healthy eating practices.Each week he put out new tips and challenges to assist Vancouver’s Biggest Losers in achieving their goals.Thrice daily, collective fitness classes were conducted on the flight deck.Each period was one hour in duration and addressed a specific aspect of fitness, ranging from stretching to strength and conditioning.In addition to these workouts, Kingstone was...

[embed]https://player.vimeo.com/video/159523890[/embed]The 2016 Heroes Hockey Challenge was held at the “Q” Centre in Victoria, British Columbia. The inspiration behind the event is retired, Master-Corporal Paul Franklin. The two participating teams were the Vancouver Canucks Alumni (CAN) and the Heroes Hockey Challenge (HHC). Both teams fought hard and in high spirits, however, the conquerors of this game were the Canucks. The closing score was 11 CAN and 7 for the HHC.  

[caption id="attachment_12354" align="alignnone" width="300"] Lt(N) Matthew Clark conducts the B.C. Cadet Honour Band during their concert at McPherson Theatre, March 22.[/caption]Rachel Lallouz, Staff Writer ~Five years conducting the Naden Band of the Royal Canadian Navy has earned Lieutenant (Navy) Matthew Clark some State-side recognition.The naval officer, and highly talented musician, was extended an invitation in early March to join the prestigious American Bandmasters Association (ABA).“There are 300 serving conductors in the Association, and I will make the sixth Canadian,” says Lt(N) Clark. “My father was my first teacher, and he always told me that if I really wanted to be successful at something, I would need to surround myself with experts in that field.As part of this Association, I will be surrounded by the giants of the wind ensemble world, and this will push awareness of professional Canadian military wind bands forward.”The ABA was formed in 1920 by Edwin Franko Goldman, a prominent band composer, to raise esteem for concert bands among musicians and audiences, and to solidify concert band’s place in the cultural heritage of North American society.Apart from the 300 serving conductors and composers of wind band in the principle category, there are 80 associate members.Only those contacted to make an application by a pre-existing member can hope to receive invitation to apply to be in the Association.The application process is strict, requiring years of evidence of a conductor or composer’s work to make the cut. In Lt(N) Clark’s case, music colleague Dr. Gerald King, conductor of the University of Victoria’s Wind Ensemble, began collecting evidence of Lt(N) Clark’s accomplishments starting in 2012.Dr. King filed away audio recordings of the naval officer conducting for the Victoria Symphony, the Naden Band, the University of Victoria, and the Victoria Philharmonic Choir over a period of about four years.  In 2015,...

[caption id="attachment_12315" align="alignnone" width="236"] Sailor and artist[/caption]Sailor and artist, LCdr Michael Erwin ~ Two decades ago, in 1996, the Lookout newspaper ran a cartoon submitted by a local officer, then serving at VENTURE, The Naval Officers Training Centre. That cartoon was the first of hundreds that would appear on page four of the Lookout over the next 20 years, and are still being periodically submitted by LCdr Michael Erwin.  The cartoons, always in a 4 in by 6 single frame format, have dealt with a broad range of topics, from ships wandering into “mime” fields, to aardvarks buying “A”s on Wheel-of-Fortune, to fleas wondering if there is life on other dogs.  Some have even gone on to appear in Reader’s Digest and the Weekly World News.  Over the years, the Lookout received the cartoons from deployed ships, overseas operations, and NDHQ, wherever LCdr Erwin was serving at the time.  When asked to comment on the longevity of his submissions, LCdr Erwin, who now works in the field of naval communications, replied, “Cartoons…yay.”  In keeping with the notion that humour is an important stress reliever and morale builder, we hope you enjoy this selection of favourites from the past two decades.

[caption id="attachment_12351" align="alignnone" width="300"] Artist John Horton displays unsigned prints of former HMCS Algonquin, former HMCS Protecteur and HMCS Oriole in his Vancouver home. Horton will be selling his prints at the Maritime Museum of B.C.’s garage sale on April 23.[/caption]Peter Mallett, Staff writer ~World-renowned marine artist John Horton is gift-wrapping some of his best work for the Maritime Museum of B.C.’s April 23 garage sale.Horton, who prides himself at creating detailed watercolour renderings of naval vessels will be selling three of his unsigned prints depicting HMCS Oriole, former HMCS Algonquin and former HMCS Protecteur at the museum’s 13th annual fundraiser at Ogden Point.“Over the years I have relied heavily on maritime museums from Greenwich to Halifax to Vancouver and Victoria and other parts of the world for my research,” says Horton. “What comes around goes around, and since much of my work comes as a result of their efforts it’s only natural that I support them to the utmost.”The garage sale goes April 23, rain or shine, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. both inside and outside of Ogden Point’s Pier A Warehouse building at Victoria’s cruise ship terminal on Dallas Road.  For a $5 cover charge (children under 12 are free) attendees can rummage through all things nautical, from marine tools and devices such as winches lines and boat clothing to outboard engines and small boats to recreational equipment, such as kayaks, life jackets and camping accessories to hiking gear.Event organizer Ann Jones says the garage sale typically attracts close to 1,000 spectators and raises $10,000 to help the museum offset operating costs. Having the work of a widely-respected artist such as Horton will be an added boost for the event, says Jones.“He is a highly respected artist; his work is fabulous and we believe there will be...

[caption id="attachment_12346" align="alignnone" width="300"] Congratulations! FMF Cape Breton on your 20th Anniversary[/caption]Rachel Lallouz, Staff Writer ~Hundreds of people gathered at one end of dry dock to celebrate Fleet Maintenance Facility Cape Breton’s (FMF CB) 20th anniversary last Wednesday.FMF CB employees, their family members, sponsors and invited guests were treated to a barbecue, and popcorn and cotton candy from a few sponsors for the littler guests.Kicking off the event was traditional drumming performed by members of the Defence Aboriginal Advisory Group. Speaker Mary Ann Thomas, an Esquimalt Nation Elder, then shared a message about the importance of working together.“We all need each other in life,” she said to the crowd.“We need to accept each other. If you want to accomplish something, you’ve got to get along and work with those around you.”After Thomas’s moving speech, the entries for the Apprenticeship Skills Competition were unveiled, representing the handiwork of tradespeople in Fleet Maintenance Facility Cape Breton; metal trades; hull trade; mechanical fitters/ refrigeration mechanics; marine electricians; electronic technicians; machinists, and millwrights. Each group was tasked with creating a display according to a “History of Canadian Navy” theme using only the supplies found within their work centres.The groups started their plan in October 2015, and had from December to February to complete their displays, which ranged from an intricate metal serpent crafted by the metal trade apprentices to a wooden and cloth replica of HMCS Oriole, created by the hull trades (painters, shipwrights/ joiners, riggers, sailmakers, electroplater and laggers).First place was awarded to Group 6B, millwrights. Second place was given to Group 1, metal trades, and an honourable mention was given as a tie between Group 2, hull trades, and Group 6A, machinists.Attendees of the anniversary celebration voted “People’s Choice” style for the metal trades, Group 1.Following the unveiling, music sponsored by 98.5 Ocean...

[caption id="attachment_12334" align="alignnone" width="300"] A sneak preview of CFB Esquimalt’s new exhibit on the First World War- a travelling exhibit lent by the Royal BC Museum. The official opening of the two new exhibits is open to the public April 15 at 10:15 am.[/caption]Rachel Lallouz, Staff Writer ~ Commemorating the loss of HMCS Esquimalt.CFB Esquimalt’s Naval and Military Museum will open its first permanent, commemorative display depicting the loss of HMCS Esquimalt on Friday, April 15 at 10:15 a.m. HMCS Esquimalt was the last Canadian ship to be lost in the Second World War after being torpedoed off the coast of Halifax April 16, 1945 – three weeks before the end of the war.“I find the story of this ship so poignant and powerful, and so strongly connected to the community of Esquimalt,” says Clare Sharpe, Museum Exhibit Designer.“I feel real sorrow for the sailors who lost their lives so late in the war. I’m glad we’ll be paying them the respect they deserve through this commemoration.”For the past year, Sharpe has worked to track down photographs of the ship, and to select memorabilia and artefacts to put in the display.Along with Danny Glubus, owner of Suite Signs, Sharpe developed informational panels about the ship using articles written by Robert Fisher.The display will also showcase a watch that was worn by sailor Joe Wilson when the ship sank.“He was the last to die, from the small group of people who survived the sinking, so it’s a very emotional and significant piece to include,” says Sharpe.On Saturday, April 16 at 11 a.m. the annual HMCS Esquimalt commemorative ceremony will take place at 1229 Esquimalt Road. The ceremony will be co-hosted by Canadian Forces Base Esquimalt and the Township of Esquimalt.  Base Commander, Captain (Navy) Steve Waddell and the Township of Esquimalt...

[caption id="attachment_12342" align="alignnone" width="300"] HMCS Vancouver Successfully Completes Joltex 2016[/caption]SLt Sean Catterall, HMCS Vancovuer ~HMCS Vancouver made history during JoLTEX 16 by becoming the first Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) ship to fire the Harpoon Block II missile in Coastal Target Suppression (CTS) mode in the Southern California Operating Areas.Operators positioned ashore directed the firing of three Harpoon missiles from Vancouver, which used GPS waypoint-guidance to follow an ordered flight path prior to impact with sea container targets located on San Nicolas Island, located in operating area.While the firing only took a forenoon watch, JoLTEX 16 was the culmination of months of preparation.The Canadian Forces Maritime Warfare Centre led the planning, which started in 2015. For Vancouver, the first introduction to the project came late last year during a series of meetings to determine the technical and training requirements, as well as the timelines for JOLTEX 16. With technical inspections complete, Vancouver departed Esquimalt in February, deployed to South America with a mission to support the RCN engagement strategy and enhance relationships with several South American navies.However, in the background Vancouver continued preparing for the final objective of the deployment – the missile firing.At the end of March, while visiting Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, Vancouver embarked a team whose role was to put the final touches on the ship’s preparations. Equipment was tested, the operations team’s procedures were refined, and Vancouver was declared ready to proceed.After embarking the Commander of the Canadian Fleet Pacific, the Test Director, and a data collection team, the ship sailed to the range to conduct the firing.  Following an early “wakey-wakey” on April 1, Vancouver came to action stations, closed up section base teams, and assumed damage control condition ZB. After receiving fire missions from operators who had been landed ashore, Vancouver conducted the three harpoon engagements which found...

[caption id="attachment_12324" align="alignnone" width="300"] Military parents seeking support and guidance for dealing with emotional and behavioural challenges with their children can turn to the Military Family Resource Centre’s Triple P Positive Parenting Program.[/caption]Rachel Lallouz, Staff Writer ~ Military parents seeking support and guidance for dealing with emotional and behavioural challenges with their children can turn to the Military Family Resource Centre’s Triple P Positive Parenting Program.The Military Family Resource Centre (MFRC) offers a Triple P suite of services that provides military families with opportunities to engage in conversations regarding the unique challenges of raising children within the military lifestyle.   “This program is based on creating strong, nurturing relationships and positive communication between children and parents,” says Pauline Sibbald, MFRC social worker.Triple P is an evidenced-based program that incorporates five core principles: promoting a positive learning environment, ensuring a safe and engaging environment, providing effective discipline, maintaining reasonable expectations for both parent and child, and taking care of oneself as a parent.The Triple P program has five intervention levels and parents determine for themselves how much help they require.  “This multi-level parenting and family support strategy allows the program to be tailored to meet individual family needs,” says Sibbald.  Parents may choose to attend one-on-one sessions with a Triple P practitioner, register for interactive seminars or participate in a group course.“Because the system is flexible, it’s adaptable and responsive to lifestyle needs and challenges. A parent might just be feeling overwhelmed or frustrated with a situation and may want some parenting tips, or may be dealing with ongoing behavioural challenges,” says Sibbald.  Family Transitions is a new parenting program for separated/divorced parents who are experiencing challenges that are impacting or complicating their parenting.  It takes time to build a new family identity and work through feelings related to the end of...

[caption id="attachment_12321" align="alignnone" width="300"] Peter Mallett, Lookout Maj Jim Barrett guides members of Vancouver’s Royal Canadian Army Cadets in a tour of Duntze Head Battery and Dockyard, March 24.[/caption]Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~Teens from the Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corps (RCACC) marvelled at the Royal Canadian Navy’s Pacific Fleet and Dockyard’s rich naval history during a morning tour March 24.Thirty-five cadets from the lower mainland Corps were given a three-hour guided tour of the base as part of a two-day Citizenship Tour of Victoria. The morning itinerary included stops at the Fleet Maintenance Facility Cape Breton, the dry dock, Duntze Head battery, the Admiral’s House, and a chance to board submarine HMCS Victoria. “The purpose of this and all the tours at the base is to help the community connect with our military,” said tour guide, SLt Louis Pierre Gosselin of Maritime Forces Pacific’s Visits and Protocol office. “The cadets all seemed genuinely interested in the many stories and historical anecdotes we have about Dockyard.”Cadets came from four different units: two from Vancouver’s 2290 RCACC (the 101 Duke of Connaught’s Own Rifle) and the 2472 RCACC (15th Field Artillery), the 3300 RCACC (Bhai Kanhaiya) Surrey, and the 1838 RCACC from Maple Ridge, B.C.  Wet and blustery conditions didn’t seem to dampen their enthusiasm about getting an up-close look at the home of the Pacific fleet.“I thought there were a lot fewer ships here than there actually are. All of us [cadets] seem to be having a good time and learning a lot about the RCN today,” said MWO Andrew Kim, an 18-year-old student from Vancouver’s Magee Secondary School. “For me it was incredible to get a tour of the HMCS Victoria submarine and see how the RCN managed to utilize every single inch of space in the vessel.”During their trip...

[caption id="attachment_12309" align="alignnone" width="300"] Former Protecteur crew members pose aboard HMCS Vancouver off the coast of Panama. Personnel from top left to bottom right: LS Duane Earle, LS Jeffrey Allam, LS James Campbell, MCpl Alfred Castrojas, Cpl Nancy Rheaume, MS David Spiker, Lt(N) Maxime Delcourt, PO2 Benjamin Salamon, PO1 Steven Stacyszyn, LS Shawn Snow, LS Leo Bossé, LS Margeaux Hadwin, Lt(N) Jeff Scheerer, PO1 Stephan Melancon and LS Sergej Krivenko.[/caption]Commander Clive Butler, HMCS Vancouver ~On the morning of March 16, after having completed a brief fuel stop in Balboa, Panama, about 100 nautical miles (185 km) south-west of Panama, HMCS Vancouver came across the former Protecteur during the proud old vessel’s final trip to Nova Scotia.A number of personnel currently serving aboard Vancouver served in Protecteur during the fateful fire that ended its career. The encounter was a surprisingly emotional moment for many of them. Vancouver saluted its old comrade-in-arms out of respect.[caption id="attachment_12310" align="alignleft" width="300"] Former HMCS Protecteur off the coast of Panama as viewed from the vantage of HMCS Vancouver[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_12281" align="alignnone" width="300"] Photo by PA Officer, Op CARIBBELCdr Jason Bergen, the Executive Officer of HMCS Saskatoon, stands on the bridge during Operation Caribbe.[/caption]Lt(N) Linda Coleman, HMCS Saskatoon PAO ~A Lieutenant-Commander in the Royal Canadian Navy from Saskatchewan is second-in-command of a ship named after his hometown.LCdr Jason Bergen, a proud native of Saskatoon and graduate of Walter Murray Collegiate Institute, is the Executive Officer of HMCS Saskatoon. The ship and its crew are currently on Operation Caribbe in the eastern Pacific Ocean, conducting maritime interdiction operations to counter illicit trafficking.“I am honoured by the opportunity to represent HMCS Saskatoon and my country as we work with our allies countering transnational crime,” says LCdr Bergen.Growing up in Saskatoon, a career in the navy was not necessarily a childhood dream, but the influence of a friend.“A friend of mine joined the Canadian Armed Forces and went to Chilliwack, B.C., for basic training. Hearing her stories piqued my interest and I wanted to do something adventurous while still making money for my university tuition.The first time I flew on a plane was when I went to Saint-Jean, Que., for my own basic training.”That first flight was just the beginning of a career that would end up taking him all over the world.LCdr Bergen joined the Canadian Armed Forces in 1997 through his Naval Reserve unit in Saskatoon, HMCS Unicorn. While working part-time with the Reserves, he graduated from the University of Saskatchewan.“Working at HMCS Unicorn while attending university kept me engaged, and I felt like I had accomplished something significant in my life while earning money for school,” he says.After university, he decided to stay in the Reserves as a Maritime Surface and Sub-Surface (MARS) Officer, which would take him to Victoria, home of Maritime Forces Pacific.Since then, LCdr Bergen has...

[caption id="attachment_12277" align="alignnone" width="300"] Photo courtesy of Selena Rhodes Photography, Victoria, BC[/caption]Katelyn Moores, MARPAC PA Office ~“You have to remember our sailors come from all across Canada and are often just as excited about seeing whales as you are,” said Danielle Smith, Maritime Forces Pacific Fleet Environment Officer, to a room full of researchers, naturalists and advocates at the 2nd annual Pacific Whale Watch Association International Symposium last month in Anacortes, Washington.Smith was one of 17 presenters at the symposium, and explained the Royal Canadian Navy’s Marine Mammal Mitigation Policy and the navy’s commitment to following the policies and procedures put in place to help protect marine life.The RCN’s Marine Mammal Mitigation Policy is a comprehensive order for all naval vessels that includes, but is not limited to, constant visual surveillance of the area by watch officers and lookouts, monitoring of passive acoustics and radar systems as a means to detect marine mammals, as well as the use of mitigation zones that will cease all sonar operations if marine mammals come within a certain range.Smith advises Canadian Fleet Pacific on a variety of environmental factors, such as the location of local marine mammal habitats, migration routes and breeding areas, which are all taken into account when planning Fleet operations and exercises.During her presentation, she discussed the success the RCN has had collaborating with external partners, including the Vancouver Aquarium’s B.C. Cetacean Sightings Network, the Department of Fisheries and Oceans, the Marine Environmental Observation Prediction and Response Network, and a number of other non-governmental organizations.By working in concert with other organizations and navies the RCN is helping to ensure their policies and procedures are current, effective, and collaborative, she says.So far, these partnerships have led to a number of benefits, including the ability to share and receive acoustic data, and to...

[caption id="attachment_12272" align="alignnone" width="300"] Photo by Cpl Anthony LavioletteA Cyclone helicopter prepares to land on the flight deck of HMCS Montréal off the coast of Halifax March 3.[/caption] Darlene Blakeley, Public Affairs Ottawa ~For the next five years, HMCS Montréal will have a new role to fill along with its regular naval requirements.Montréal has been named the Royal Canadian Navy’s Experimental Ship – or “X-Ship” – a program designed to advance innovative and leading-edge naval concepts in all areas of warship deployment, crewing and sustainment. “To do this, we have been allotted a five-year period within which to build and execute a program that builds on existing trial concepts and develops new ones,” says Lieutenant-Commander Lorraine Sammut, Senior Staff Officer Operations at the New Capability Introduction Detachment in Esquimalt, B.C. “Specifically, X-Ship will be tasked to conduct experiments that fall outside of normal fleet development activities, and be focused on supporting future classes of ships such as the Canadian Surface Combatant and Joint Support Ship.”In the short term, many of the trials conducted will focus on human factors such as variations of crew size and impacts on crew rest and performance, as well as some operational trials. “One of the driving tenets behind X-Ship is to explore crew modelling initiatives – future practices – that are forecasted to be employed in our next classes of ship,” explains LCdr Sammut. “One of the challenges we face is forecasting the level of human effort required to conduct a certain task, given that future ships will have increased levels of automation. To forecast the baseline, the navy, in partnership with Defence Research and Development Canada, uses a crew modelling prediction software and inputs what we already know to be true.”Medium and long term horizons will see an increased focus on operational and technical type trials, including structural...

[caption id="attachment_12269" align="alignnone" width="300"] Photo by U.S. Coast GuardBales of cocaine jettisoned from a suspected smuggling boat and retrieved from the Eastern Pacific Ocean lie stacked aboard HMCS Saskatoon. The bales were seized by a U.S. Coast Guard Law Enforcement Detachment embarked on Saskatoon.[/caption]Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~Sailors on board HMCS Saskatoon have just made the life of drug smugglers and organized crime a little less lucrative after participating in a sizable drug seizure in the Eastern Pacific.The Maritime Coastal Defence Vessel with its crew of 38 and a United States Coast Guard Law Enforcement Detachment seized 10 bales of cocaine weighing approximately 360 kilograms on March 19.The operation off the coast of Central America is part of Operation Caribbe, part of Canada’s contribution to a multinational effort against transnational criminal organizations in the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea dubbed Operation Martillo.“It’s not just getting drugs off the street in Canada and the United States; Operation Caribbe is also about keeping the money out of the pockets of bad people who are destabilizing the governments of nations in South and Central America,” said Lieutenant-Commander Todd Bacon, Saskatoon’s Commanding Officer.The seizure came about when occupants on a panga-style fishing boat jettisoned their illicit contraband in the water before fleeing at a high speed.Saskatoon approached the smugglers and deployed the U.S. Coast Guard Law Enforcement Detachment team in rigid hull inflatable boats (RHIB) to board the vessel.The seizure by Saskatoon brings the total cocaine seized by Canadian warships in the month of March to nearly 700 kg. Earlier this month, the Halifax-based HMCS Summerside was involved in the boarding of a 12-metre vessel in the international waters off the coast of Nicaragua that led to the seizure of 16 bales of cocaine weighing 324 kg.Four Royal Canadian Navy ships were deployed in...

[caption id="attachment_12258" align="alignnone" width="300"] Protect your travels & save 10% on rates[/caption]To avoid incurring out-of-pocket expenses, should you require medical treatment (including new medication) while you’re away, remember to get the SISIP Travel Insurance, offered through Manulife. Plus, members of the CAF community save 10 per cent on rates.This new product is underwritten by Manulife and offered exclusively to the CAF Community.For most vacations, you can’t get where you’re going without flying, which may pose some health issues. Here are a few tips to stay well while you’re in the air.Be aware of the air - Cabin pressure is particularly strong at high altitudes, resulting in less available air. It’s recommended that you take long, relaxed breaths while flying to avoid the possibility of breathing becoming laboured.Avoid deep vein thrombosis - Some passengers can be at risk for this condition, especially on long flights; to help guard against this, try standing up and walking for several minutes every hour or so.Strengthen your immune system - When you’re in a closed environment with dry air, as you are during a flight, illnesses can spread very easily. Avoiding foods with high sugar content can help your body fight off bacteria more effectively.For more information, visit www.sisiptravelinsurance.ca

[caption id="attachment_12253" align="alignnone" width="300"] DND housing, annual adjustments explained by CF Housing Agency[/caption]Regardless of whether a Canadian Armed Forces member lives in private-sector or DND housing, rental adjustments are a routine annual process.In December of 2015, occupants of DND housing received their yearly letter from the Canadian Forces Housing Agency (CFHA) detailing their rent adjustment for fiscal year 2016. CFHA is part of the Department of National Defence’s Infrastructure and Environment family (ADM(IE)) and has been managing the housing portfolio for almost 20 years. DND recognizes the importance to members of having suitable housing; it contributes to a better quality of life and to the well-being of CAF members and their families. This vision is top of mind for CFHA in its management of over 12,000 military housing units across 25 sites, and as it applies Government of Canada housing policies and departmental regulations.    Government of Canada housing policy stipulates that Crown-owned housing must reflect local market rental values for homes of a similar size, style, condition and age. For CAF members opting to live in Crown-owned housing, this means that they are provided with a housing unit at a rental cost similar to what other private-sector renters living in similar housing units in their neighborhood would pay.To provide for a fair and consistent approach to this policy, CFHA must also utilize an annual rent adjustment process. Under this process, CFHA determines whether the rents charged for Crown-owned housing must be changed to reflect fluctuations in the local rental market. Under this system, all occupants of DND housing are subject to an adjustment process every year at the same time.DND, like other government departments, applies the Statistics Canada Consumer Price Index (CPI) to its residential portfolio in order to determine the annual housing rent adjustments. This year’s adjustment is an average 1% increase...

[caption id="attachment_12247" align="alignnone" width="200"] Peter Mallet, LookoutDefenceman MCpl Anita Kwasnicki (left) and MCpl Joanne Lyster at the Wurtele Arena before heading to Nationals. The Lady Tritons played in the Canadian Armed Forces Women’s National Hockey Championships at CFB Borden, March 20 to 24.[/caption]Peter Mallett, Staff writer ~Going winless and being outscored by a 38-3 margin over four games might thoroughly discourage most hockey teams, but not the Esquimalt Lady Tritons.Even before the Lady Tritons departed for the six-day, five team Canadian Armed Forces Women’s National Hockey Championship tournament, March 19 to 24 at CFB Borden, they were well aware their prospects of collecting the tournament trophy or even registering a victory were bleak. “Our players knew it was going to be tough going into the tournament, but despite the adversity they faced, they played with so much heart, didn’t lose their cool and definitely created something to build on for next season,” said acting head coach PO1 Dave Hillier.The Lady Tritons fortunes on the ice began with an 8-1 loss to Ottawa in their opening game, followed by 8-1 to Halifax, 11-0 to CFB Borden, and an 11-1 loss to Cold Lake.PO1 Hillier, normally an assistant coach with the team, was filling the shoes of head coach Bob Clark who was unable to attend the tournament due to work commitments. While PO1 Hillier admits the results were far less than he and the players had hoped for, he said he enjoyed the experience and would “gladly” do the job again.“If they had been making stupid plays, showed no effort and were taking dumb penalties I wouldn’t want to do this again, but that certainly wasn’t the case with this group,” said PO1 Hillier. “I’m proud to be their coach because the players reflect the best in the military and the best...

[caption id="attachment_12243" align="alignnone" width="300"] The auto work bay has what hobbyists need to repair and tune up their vehicles.[/caption]Rachel Lallouz, Staff Writer  ~Military personnel and civilian DND employees who have a budding interest in automotive mechanics, or even fully fledged expertise in car restoration, are encouraged to become a member of the Auto Hobby Club.Located in Work Point, building 1117, the 20-year-old club provides full automotive services for members of the DND community to work on their own cars using the tools and resources provided by the club.“It’s the best kept secret on base, but my mission has been to change that,” says Club President Lieutenant  (Navy) Brady Gaudet, who has seen the membership triple since the new and motivated executive team became involved one year ago, and as he sought to breathe new life into what he believes is one of the most valuable resources on the base.With the guidance and oversight of the two Personnel Support Personnel custodian staff, Bruce Stewart and Dave Windle, working for the club, a member can work on their daily driving car, family car, or personal repair project. While no mechanics are employed at the club they certainly have a wealth of mechanical expertise and resources available for most DIY projects. Many members complete restoration work, rebuild or swap car engines, or modernize older cars to bring them up to present-day safety standards.To successfully complete these tasks, the full-service club offers automotive diagnostic equipment, a large range of car manuals, three fully equipped bays with car hoists, and tire and oil recycling. Storage for 12 vehicles on the property ensures that members can leave their insured vehicles at the club for extended projects for a modest storage fee.“We accept members with every level of automotive experience, from all trades, as long as they...

A Freedom of the Municipality Parade was one of several events held over the March 19th weekend to mark the 100th anniversary of 13 Field Ambulance, the predecessor to the current day 11 Field Ambulance.[caption id="attachment_12239" align="alignnone" width="300"] Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia, the Honourable Judith Guichon (front row, third from left) and her husband Bruno Mailloux (front row, second from left) pose with distinguished guests and members of the head table during a dinner commemorating the 100th Anniversary of 13 Field Ambulance, hosted at Government House on March 19.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_12238" align="alignnone" width="200"] The Canadian Armed Forces Medical Services Banner, the “Princess Royals Banner of our Colonel in Chief” (right) is paraded by the 11 Field Ambulance Royal Banner Color Party past Saanich Municipal Hall.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_12237" align="alignnone" width="300"] Mayor Richard Atwell (second from right) and Commanding Officer of 11 Field Ambulance Lieutenant Colonel Heather McClelland (right) inspect the troops.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_12236" align="alignnone" width="300"] LCol McClelland enacts the ceremonial knock upon the mayor’s door, then is greeted by the Mayor of Saanich Richard Atwell.[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_12232" align="alignnone" width="300"] The Sky’s No Limit – Girls Fly Too![/caption]The Sky’s No Limit – Girls Fly Too! an epic hands-on outreach event to address gender and cultural diversity in aviation, aerospace, marine and defence.  Despite the inclement weather during the event, and a catastrophic windstorm that, 36 hours prior, had demolished 10,000 square feet of indoor display area, The Sky’s No Limit – Girls Fly Too! 2016 was a resounding success. A testament of dedication and support to the advancement of women in aviation, aerospace, marine and defence, hundreds of volunteers, and agency and industry partners worked feverishly together to re-locate the display area over to the Shell hangar in time for launch.Honoured distinguished guests included The Honourable Judith Guichon, Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia; The Honourable Harjit Sajjan, Minister of National Defence; Mark Warawa, Member of Parliament; The Honourable Mary Polak, Minister of Envioronment; Canadian Coast Guard Director of Fleet Pacific Region, Joanne McNish; Rear Admiral Gilles Couturier, Commander Maritime Forces Pacific; U.S. Consul General Lynne Platt; and Rajiv K. Chander, Consul General of India.  Special VIPs also included NASA astronaut and U.S. Navy helicopter pilot (Ret’d) Wendy Lawrence; Isabelle Tremblay, Manager of the Project and Program Portfolio Canadian Space Agency; and RCAF Colonel (Ret’d) and Aviation Hall of Fame inductee, George Miller.In total, 10,000 people from around the Lower Mainland and several remote school districts attended the two-day event.  A U.S. Air Force KC-135 refueling aircraft from 63rd Air Refueling Squadron, MacDill AFB, Florida, came with 25 crew members on board to share in the fun.Participants were able to explore aircraft and tactical assets from the Royal Canadian Navy, Royal Canadian Air Force, Canadian Army, Canadian Coast Guard, RCMP, Cadets, U.S. Air Force, U.S. Navy, Civil Air Search and Rescue, plus civilian and education partners from...

[caption id="attachment_12196" align="alignnone" width="300"] The Naden Band plays for Shoreline Middle School's Grade 8 Concert Band.[/caption]Rachel Lallouz, Staff Writer ~Early on the morning of Friday, March 11, the Naden Band’s rehearsal building was filled with eagerly chatting teens from Shoreline Middle School’s Grade Eight Concert Band.Students perched on the sides of the room ready to watch their musical counterparts play their instruments at the expert level.“Not everyone has a band of this calibre in their backyard,” says Chris Leeson, a music teacher in his third year at Shoreline. “The class this year is particularly keen, so they were really excited to be here.”Leeson, who grew up in Saskatchewan, explains that not all middle school students have the opportunity to hear a professional band perform.“Students may not be exposed to hearing how their instrument is actually supposed to sound, so to hear them be played at this level is especially important for learning musicians,” he says.The 20-person student band started off their trip by listening to the Naden Band play a few songs, before Conductor Lieutenant (Navy) Matthew Clark called on student volunteer Gabby Rush to conduct the Naden Band herself.The two bands then merged, as student musicians paired up with members of the Naden Band, playing their instruments along with the professionals.Chief Petty Officer Second Class Brayden Wise, a double bass player with the Naden Band, had the pleasure of playing alongside his son, Elijah Wise, 13, who is part of Shoreline’s Grade Eight Concert Band.“This kind of experience is great for the kids because you never know how you’ll reach a student,” says CPO2 Wise, who was inspired to become a musician when he heard the Naden Band play in ninth Grade.His son was quick to chime in.“I loved listening to the music and getting to play with everyone,”...

[caption id="attachment_12201" align="alignnone" width="204"] Raymond Charles English Feb. 2, 1945 – Feb. 24, 2016[/caption]Raymond Charles English Feb. 2, 1945 – Feb. 24, 2016On the morning of Sunday, March 13 family and friends of Raymond Charles English gathered in the Bonaventure Room at the Pacific Fleet Club to celebrate his life.Ray’s combined military and civilian career at CFB Esquimalt spanned 53 years.From 1963-1978 he served in the Royal Canadian Navy before spending 37 years as an electrician with Fleet Maintenance Facility Cape Breton.Ray’s son Reine was first to offer a moving tribute to his Dad. Reine spoke of his father’s love for his family and his lifelong connection with the game of baseball. He remembered how proud Ray was to watch his grandson play.   Christian MacRae, a long-time colleague of Ray, invited friends to come forward and remember him in words. Recollections included Ray’s abilities and great sense of humour, and people  paid tribute to his remarkable career at CFB Esquimalt.  Commander Dan Horan, FMF CB Operations Manager, closed the celebration with the unveiling of a plaque in Ray’s honour.Electricians from the HMCS Victoria were on hand to raise a glass in memory of Ray.Special thanks must go to Phil Venoit and the members of IBEW Local 230 for their generous support of this event.

[caption id="attachment_12210" align="alignnone" width="300"] nutrition month try new[/caption]Think healthy eating is bland? It doesn’t have to be. Healthy eating tastes great.Keep it interesting and get creative with cooking strategies, experiment with new foods and flavours and refresh your recipes.Hello taste buds. Get ready to tingle. It’s time to try something new.Want to try new foods but not sure where to start? These tasty ideas are sure to tempt you:Dietitians love experimenting with new ways to enjoy healthy foods.Try their tasty tips:• Boost protein and fibre in berry smoothies by adding cooked red lentils.• Sprinkle baby spinach or arugula with lemon juice, a little olive oil, a pinch of sea salt and parmesan cheese for a delicious side salad.• Snack on a small portion of cooked barley mixed with defrosted frozen blueberries, flax seeds and a hint of maple syrup.Check out these Apps to help you stay on track - see www.dietitians.ca/gettheappsCookspiration: find dietician approved recipes.eaTipster: Get a dietician approved nutrition tip every dayeaTracker: Consumers can enter foods and activities, set goals to change activity and eating habits, and get feedback on your progress.

[caption id="attachment_12193" align="alignnone" width="300"] Determined Lady Tritons face steep odds at hockey nationals[/caption]Peter Mallett, Staff writer ~You can’t blame the Lady Tritons coach, PO1 Dave Hillier for taking a “realistic” approach to this week’s women’s national hockey finals at CFB Borden.After all, his team has a smaller player pool to draw from than the competition, little ice time, few organized games, and will be without their usual head coach. So the players and coaching staff know their chances of triumph at the Canadian Armed Forces Women’s National Hockey Championship, March 19 to 24 at CFB Borden, are minimal at best. “To be brutally honest, the girls having fun and being enthusiastic about playing hockey is all that really matters,” says Hillier. “The true meaning of this competition is all about bonding, camaraderie, meeting and competing against other women hockey players from bases across the country.”The Lady Tritons placed fifth at last year’s nationals and haven’t registered a win at the tournament since 2014.They open the round robin play against CFB Ottawa on March 20 (result unavailable at press time) and then play two games March 21 against CFB Halifax and tournament host CFB Borden before their final preliminary round game on March 22 against Cold Lake.While they are determined to earn a berth in the March 23 semi-final round of the five-team tournament, the Lady Tritons are well aware the deck is firmly stacked against them.  Unlike most teams at the national finals, the Lady Tritons are constantly hamstrung by a small player pool, and the even bigger handicap of getting the players released for games.“With us it’s a situation of anyone who wants to be part of this team and is able to come with us,” says defenceman MCpl Anita Kwasnicki. “Other teams can pick and choose from much larger...