News

[caption id="attachment_12187" align="alignnone" width="300"] Master Seaman (Retired) John Duncan serves up freshly made soup and sandwiches at one of his two restaurants.[/caption]Rachel Lallouz, Staff Writer ~ Nobody knows the importance of comfort food like Master Seaman (Retired) John Duncan.The sailor spent 12 years dishing up his soulful creations to ships’ crews until 1996 when he retired.He tried working in the civilian world as Head Chef at Lester B. Pearson College in Metchosin, and then as a Food Service Manager at a senior’s facility.But he couldn’t shake the itch to go it alone.After a brief business course, he cracked open the doors of his own restaurant in 2003 - Dad’s Soup and Sangys in Colwood, which later moved to 310 Wale Road.The delectable array soups and sandwiches made entirely from scratch, down to the freshly-baked bread and slowly-simmered soup stocks, made a fast foody following. So successful he opened a second location at 2806 Jacklin Road last April.“The biggest compliment I can get is not about the amount of money that someone spends in one of my restaurants, but the fact they come up to me and say ‘that was the best soup I’ve ever had.’ That’s the kind of food I make for people,” says Duncan.  Seven days a week, starting at 6 a.m., Duncan is in his kitchen, making salad dressings and stocks, helping bake bread, cooking roast beef and turkey for the sandwiches, and slicing veggies. He refuses to use preservatives and processed foods, does not fry anything, and supports his own community by buying local foods.“Our house-baked roast beef on multigrain is just fantastic,” says Duncan. “But we do a terrific grilled Reuben on homemade rye bread as well, and of course, both are loaded with veggies and real cheese.”As for his soups, Duncan says his clam...

[caption id="attachment_12182" align="alignnone" width="300"] Left to right: Vancouver and Chilean Navy vessels Condell and Prat execute a sunburst formation during the Officer of the Watch manoeuvres serial. ~ Photo LS Sergej Krivenko, HMCS Vancouver[/caption]SLt Sean Catterall, HMCS Vancouver ~The final and perhaps most significant stop on the long journey south for HMCS Vancouver was a port visit to Chile.This year marks the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Canada and Chile. Chile is considered a priority country in the Government of Canada’s Engagement in the Americas Strategy, and Vancouver’s visit was reflective of this initiative.On Monday Feb. 29, Vancouver conducted an underway replenishment with the Chilean Navy ship/vessel Almirante Montt 20 miles off the coast of Valparaiso. After having exercised exclusively with Almirante Montt for a period of five weeks this past summer, it was a familiar scene.As Vancouver entered the port of Valparaiso the next day, the Chilean Navy’s band played and Commander Maritime Forces Pacific, RAdm Gilles Couturier was present to welcome Vancouver’s crew to Valparaiso.Shortly after arriving, key Canadian and Chilean naval staff, including a 15-sailor contingent from Vancouver, attended a wreath laying ceremony downtown in Plaza Sotomayor in honour of the sailors who fell during the Battles of Iquique and Punta Gruesa during the War of the Pacific in 1879.Following the ceremony, tours of the ship were provided to Embassy staff and Consular Wardens prior to a Canadiana-style reception, co-hosted by RAdm Couturier and Canadian Ambassador to Chile Marcel Lebleu, on Vancouver’s flight deck.After a four day port visit, Vancouver and crew departed Valparaiso in company with Chilean Navy ships Almirante Condell and Capitán Prat in order to conduct a 48-hour long PASSEX with the Chilean Navy in the waters to the south of Valparaiso. Once at sea, Vancouver had the privilege of operating with the...

[caption id="attachment_12178" align="alignnone" width="300"] Associate Minister of National Defence, Kent Hehr speaks with Lieutenant (Navy) Matthew Otoupal while visiting CFB Esquimalt March 15 for a procurement announcement of naval remote weapon stations to be installed in Halifax Class frigates. ~ Cpl Stuart MacNeil, MARPAC Imaging Services[/caption]Rachel Lallouz , Staff Writer Royal Canadian Navy warships have taken another step into the future.Last week, two ministers were in town to announce the purchase and installation of remote naval weapons stations on the Halifax-class frigates.Judy Foote, Minister of Public Services Procurement Canada, and Kent Hehr, Associate Minister of National Defence and Veterans Affairs Canada, announced March 15 two contract awards, valued at $36 million, to Raytheon Canada Limited for the purchase of the remotely controlled gun stations.The contracts ensure ongoing maintenance of the stations for up to five years, as well as the purchase of two additional weapons stations for use in training, bringing the total number of stations to 58.“This is part of the Government of Canada’s strategy for renewing the ships and equipment of our navy,” said Minister Foote. “We are providing modern weaponry systems to defend against naval and aerial threats in any situation.”Mark Nichol, President of Raytheon International Inc. in Canada, says the new weapons stations are high sensor platforms that will be located on the decks of the frigates and on the future Queenston-class Joint Support Ships.He says that either a 7.6 light machine gun or 50-calibre heavy machine gun will be mounted on the stations.The new stations will allow for defence against small boat and low-slow flyer threats, and will allow operators to remotely observe and locate targets under various environmental conditions.“These platforms will allow the crew to remotely control weapons installed on these mounts from within the ship, rather than outside,” said Minister Hehr. “The new systems will provide increased security for the men and women who serve on our ships.”Currently, weapon stations on board the frigates require gun operators to be outside on the ship...

[caption id="attachment_12206" align="alignnone" width="300"] An Air Workup group with the new CH-148 Cyclone.[/caption]Fifteen members of Sea Training Pacific had the pleasure of working with  HMCS Montreal to assist in an Air Workup with the new CH-148 Cyclone from March 2 to 4, immediately following a Directed Workup program.  This particular program was a milestone within the Royal Canadian Navy and Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) as it marked the first 100 percent CAF Air Detachment to perform trials and evaluations onboard with the CH-148 Cyclone.  The Helicopter Operational Test and Evaluation Facility, which is based out of 12 Wing, CFB Shearwater, have been busily testing and developing this new capability since the first models of the CH-148 were introduced.  This most recent step involves flying the Cyclone through a series of flight regimes and deck evolutions, known as Operational Test and Evaluation, and integrating an Air Detachment onboard HMCS Montreal in order to progress the data collection and trials necessary for further development.   This Operational Test and Evaluation process is critical to progressing this exciting new capability towards a fully mission-capable maritime helicopter.  It was fantastic to see the Helicopter Operational Test and Evaluation Facility Air detachment come into its own in the early stages as the new department on the ship. It was also great to see the ship and detachment, sailors, pilots and avionics technicians come to a commwon understanding of the safety and emergency procedures, not to mention the difference in routine flying operations, that will be required when operating with Cyclone onboard. For some junior RCAF technicians onboard, this was their first experience at sea as an Air Detachment, and they needed to leverage the experience of those with more sea time.  This is where the work we did as Sea Training was most enjoyable; it was truly...

Joanne Baxter, Health Promotion ~You have two weeks behind you on your healthy eating pledge. Now it’s time to look at what you can focus on in week three.Priortize portion size! When it comes to healthy eating, how much you eat can be just as important as what you eat.Eating portions that are too big can lead to overeating and weight gain. Follow these tips to manage the munchies while enjoying realistic portions. Give yourself a hand! Size up your portions with handy estimates.Wondering if you’re eating too much or too little? Use your hand and try these estimates on for size: 1 cup of leafy green veggies or 1 whole piece of fruit = 1 fist. Fresh, frozen or canned vegetables = ½ fist. 1 slice of bread or ½ bagel = 1 hand. 1 cup of milk or ¾ cup of yogurt = 1 fist. 50 grams of cheese = 2 thumbs. Serving of chicken = palm of hand. ¾ cup of pulses (e.g. lentils, black beans, chick peas) = 1 fist. Dietitians can help you manage your portion sizes and eat mindfully.Check out some of these favourite dietitian-designed tips: Downsize big portions when eating out: split an entrée, skip appetizers or share dessert.Turn off screens during meals so you are less likely to eat mindlessly long after you are satisfied.Slow down when you eat. Put your fork down in between bites. For customized help with your diet find a dietitian in your area:www.dietitians.ca/find.

[caption id="attachment_12139" align="alignnone" width="300"] Nominate an exceptional mariner[/caption]The Maritime Museum of British Columbia is inviting nominations for the SS Beaver Medal, an annual award that recognizes outstanding contributions to the marine sector. Nominations are encouraged for anyone who has made noteworthy contributions to B.C.’s marine sector, including: science, technology, business, applications of maritime skills, nautical heritage and culture, and academic offerings. An award is also made to recognize a noteworthy organization, vessel or technological project.“This year will mark the fifth competition to recognize noteworthy achievements in our province’s diverse maritime scene,” said Barry Rolston, who heads the medal project. “The 2015 awards were presented by Lieutenant Governor, the Honourable Judith Guichon in November to Captain Ron Burchett who builds dynamic working models of tugboats used to train mariners worldwide; veteran marine writer Mr. Syd Heal; and Mr. Helmut Lanziner who developed the electronic charts and information display systems that have replaced paper charts.The Pacific Pilotage Authority which operates the deep sea pilotage service all the way up the BC coast was recognized by a special award.“ The gold-plated medal is struck from copper salvaged from the 19th century paddlewheel steamship S.S. Beaver, built in England in 1835 for the Hudson’s Bay Company. After rounding the treacherous Cape Horn, Beaver reached the northwest coast where it served for 53 years.This iconic vessel pioneered commercial navigation on the B.C. coast as a floating trading post, hydrographic survey ship and towboat.It grounded near Vancouver in 1888 and after foundering, some of her machinery was recovered providing the metal for the Beaver Medal.“To our knowledge, no other award encompasses all aspects of our coastal industry, history, technology, or practical application of skills,” said former Ambassador and retired Admiral John Anderson. Nominations for 2016 close on May 16, 2016. Nomination information, easy-to-complete forms and due...

GCWC Campaign Wrap Up from Lookout on Vimeo. Captain (N) Steve Waddell, Base Commander and Chair of the 2015 GCWCC, unveiled the large cheque that declared a total of $448,000 has been raised. This money will help support the United Way, HealthPartners and a number of other registered Canadian charities, including Esquimalt’s Military Family Resource Centre. Capt(N) Waddell presented the cheque to Patricia Jelinski, CEO of United Way Greater Victoria, and Therese Boullard, HealthPartners B.C. representative, and expressed his appreciation for the phenomenal contributions made this year by the Defence community.

[caption id="attachment_12130" align="alignnone" width="300"] New army website a one stop shop for well-being[/caption]Jeanne Gagnon, Guard of Honour ~The Canadian Army has implemented a new strategy to ensure men and women in uniform are physically and mentally prepared to participate in domestic and international operations.The Canadian Army Integrated Performance Strategy (CAIPS) recognizes that soldiers who are healthy and fit, are socially active, have a good support network at home and have a positive outlook on life contribute to the well-being of the Forces.The “Mission: Ready” website http://strongproudready.ca/missionready/en/home-en/ is one element of the strategy and was launched this past December. The website allows military members and civilians to find resources linked to their career, their family, their health, their relationships, their beliefs, their fitness and their finances. Users can search information by geographic location and tailored to their situation, whether they are part of the regular force or reservists, whether they are family members or DND employees.The goal is to reinforce the army, the unit and the individual while keeping the Canadian Armed Forces and the Department of National Defence informed, wrote Commander of the Canadian Army Lieutenant-General Marquis Hainse, in “Mission: Ready – The Canadian Army Integrated Performance Strategy (CAIPS).”“My end state is an army that is proud, strong, and ready to deploy on demanding missions and operations but equally possessing of the resiliency requisite to succeeding and successfully returning to Canada,” wrote LGen Hainse. “Performance optimization and healthy lifestyle choices will permeate everyday life at the unit and at home.”Other elements of the strategy include the Road to Mental Readiness training packages, a Readiness and Resiliency Guide for leaders and Performance Triad training guides to improve sleep, nutrition and activity.The website gathers many of the programs and services available to military members and civilians in one location, which is one...

[caption id="attachment_12125" align="alignnone" width="300"] Cpl Stuart MacNeil, MARPAC Imaging ServicesOn board HMCS Ottawa, a simulated causality receives medical care from a team of doctors, physician assistants, nurses and medics from Canadian Forces Health Services Centre (Pacific) during SMASHEX 2016.[/caption]Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~The scene: Early on the morning of Feb. 25, 2016, the fictitious submarine HMCS Ojibwa fails to report for its regular communications check.After repeated attempts to communicate with the vessel, the Battle Watch Operations Centre (BWOC) springs into action alerting members of the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre (JRCC) in Victoria who then set into motion an intricate search and rescue plan.All essential personnel are immediately recalled to the base.Drawing on all available assets including satellite, radar, aircraft from 443 Squadron and any nearby ships, JRCC staff find Ojibwa on the floor of the Pacific Ocean in a remote location.The vessel is taking on water in its engine room and a dangerous reaction has begun between the submarine’s batteries and the sea water. Twelve of the 59 crew members are injured.While Ojibwa has a limited power supply, there is still enough energy remaining to provide life support for a few days if necessary, but the casualties need medical attention.As the trapped submariners await rescue, more than 300 personnel from three units are being assembled, briefed and transported to the site to begin the rescue operation.This nightmarish scenario of a disabled submarine was a complex training exercise that combined the efforts of multiple units and assets to practice submarine escape and rescue operations.“Operations at sea are inherently dangerous for any mariner, making our ability to carry out rescue operations a top priority,” said Commander Lorne C. Carruth, Deputy Chief of Staff Operations and Intelligence Fusion. “Of all rescue scenarios, it is difficult to imagine one more daunting than the need...

[caption id="attachment_12121" align="alignnone" width="300"] Photos by PO2 Bibeau, FDU(P)The Operational Dive Team poses for a picture during the ice dive exercise on Lac Des Roches in Lone Butte, B.C.[/caption] Katelyn Moores, MARPAC Public Affairs ~An icy dip in Canada’s northern waters is not something most people would look forward to, but for Fleet Diving Unit (Pacific) (FDU(P)), diving in frigid and isolated conditions is an excellent opportunity to hone a unique and important skill set. Last month, 16 divers from the Operational Dive Team, consisting of six Reserve Port Inspection Divers and 10 Clearance Divers, deployed to Lac Des Roches in Lone Butte, B.C., for a five-day ice dive exercise to ensure they are prepared to operate in Canada’s Arctic.“Clearance divers have a mandate to operate in all Canadian waterways,” explained Lieutenant (Navy) Kevin Okihiro, the officer in charge of the exercise. “It’s important that we stay practiced in operating in these northern areas.”The exercise aimed to combine the capabilities of the divers with those of the SeaBotix Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV), a tethered robot controlled from land that provides real-time information on the underwater environment. Capable of traveling to a depth of 950 metres, the ROV allows the dive team to get a clear picture of what’s beneath the ice while eliminating the time constraint that decompression imposes on divers. After the ROV does an initial scan of the area, objects of interest can be further investigated by the divers.Exercises like this one happen at least once a year and provide an excellent opportunity to familiarize the divers with Arctic operations in a demanding, real-world environment.The cold weather isn’t the only challenge these divers faced. Lt(N) Okihiro said the main obstacle when operating in the Arctic isn’t the frigid temperature, but the remote location.“The biggest challenge for us is getting...

[caption id="attachment_12117" align="alignnone" width="300"] Peter Mallett, Lookout Valcartier players celebrate and gather for a team shot after capturing the CAF Old Timers Hockey Championship at Wurtele Arena, March 10. Valcartier defeated Petawawa 5-1 to claim their third consecutive national title.[/caption]Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~CFB Valcartier’s Lions roared to their third consecutive CAF Old Timers Hockey Championship title with a 5-1 victory over the CFB Petawawa Stags in the final tournament game at Wurtele Arena on March 10.Valcartier set the tone early, scoring just 25 seconds into the first period when Corporal (Cpl) Rock Lirette capitalized on a goalmouth scramble and bested Petawawa goaltender Pte Ryan Kershaw with a quick snap shot above his right blocker. Lions Team Captain Cpl Gino Methot scored the game’s second goal on the power play with one minute remaining in the opening period with a shot from a tight angle into the right side of the net.“We had to work hard to win this trophy and we are all very proud of collecting our third consecutive national championship,” said Lions coach Warrant Officer (WO) Ghyslain Simard. “Most of the players on the squad have been here for all three of our wins and our team chemistry this week has been simply extraordinary.”WO Simard noted that even though Valcartier had a smaller lineup than most of their opponents they used their speed and quicker reaction time to their advantage. He said their closest game in the tournament was also against Petawawa whom they defeated 3-2 on opening day of the tournament on March 6.“We made some adjustments after the first game and then the chemistry just seemed to come together for us,” said WO Simard.Valcartier went undefeated in the tournament finishing with a record of 6-0 while outscoring their opponents by a combined margin of 38-12....

[caption id="attachment_12113" align="alignnone" width="300"] LS Ogle Henry, MARPAC Imaging ServicesCAF Warriors goaltender CP02 Ken Simoneau makes a save as Canucks Alumni forward Dave ’Tiger’ Williams looks for a rebound during Heroes Hockey 2016 action at the Q Centre on March 6.[/caption]Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~CAF Warriors goalie Chief Petty Officer Second Class Ken Simoneau admits he was nervous and had a few butterflies prior to his memorable night of minding the net in a charity game against a cast of former NHL stars. After all, the highest level of hockey CPO2 Simoneau had ever played at was house league back in his hometown of Baie-Comeau, Que.But after the first period of the March 6 Heroes Hockey Challenge, it was NHL legends like Dave ‘Tiger’ Williams and Dave Babych who were in awe of the 40-year-old naval electronics sensor operator.“They [the CAF Warriors] scored the heck out of us in the first half of the game,” said two-time NHL All-Star defenceman Babych. “Their goaltender was amazing. Sometimes you run into good goalies like this in our alumni games and it’s a struggle to figure them out.”The Warriors, a team selected from players participating in the Canadian Armed Forces Old Timers Hockey Championship held last week in Esquimalt, eventually fell by an 11-7 score line. It was CPO2 Simoneau’s puck stopping skills along with two goals by Warriors forward Sgt Jodie Noseworthy of CFB Edmonton that helped the give the Warriors a 6-3 lead after the first of two 30 minute periods in the game.Earlier that day CPO2 Simoneau, starting goaltender for CFB Esquimalt’s Tritons Old Timers team, was voted game MVP in the Old Timers tournament opener. Six hours later he was busy frustrating the NHL alumni, stopping forward Kyle Wellwod on a penalty shot and closing the door on scoring...

[caption id="attachment_12082" align="alignnone" width="300"] Major Jo-Anne Flawn-Laforge speaks during a panel on “Military to Civilian: Helping Career Professionals Navigate Options” at the Cannexus National Career Development Conference on Jan. 25 in Ottawa.[/caption]Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~Making the transition from the military to the civilian world can be a challenging leap for both veterans and their future employers.In 2016, approximately 5,000 highly skilled veterans will enter the competitive job market, and one in four will have difficulty transitioning to civilian life despite their skills and experiences, according to the Canadian Education and Research Institute for Counselling (CERIC).To help make the journey a smoother one, CERIC has produced a new book called Military to Civilian Employment: A Career Practitioners Guide.Aimed at those who work in career counselling and career development circles, the 250-page document is designed to help them better understand what former military members bring to an employer. That knowledge will make counsellors more effective at helping veterans identify competencies, which in turn will make the individual more competitive in their job search and with the job application process.Maj Jo-Anne Flawn-LaForge, a 30-year CAF member who is the National Transition Advisor for the CAF, says the “desperately needed” guide is an effort to help  capture and identify   the full potential and skill sets of former military members who have entered the job market.“It’s easier to retain an employee when you understand where they are coming from and where they fit best,” says Maj Flawn-LaForge. “The biggest challenge is truly being able to capture everything that a veteran can bring to their working environment.”She was part of CERIC’s study group and worked closely with author and career development expert Yvonne Rodney to produce the guide. The idea for a guide was developed at last year’s Cannexus Conference and was very timely with...

Joanne Baxter, Health Promotion ~Now that week one is done let’s have a look at small changes you can make in week 2 of Nutrition Month.Week 2: Quality Counts!Jump-start your dayPower through your morning by eating a good breakfast.A nourishing breakfast gives you a fuel boost plus protein and fibre to help you stay alert and avoid mid-morning munchies.In a hurry?Blend frozen berries, yogurt and milk for a super smoothie. Make it even better with baby spinach and ground flax.Wrap peanut butter, a banana and trail mix in a whole-grain tortilla for a portable, crunchy breakfast.Got time?Make a burrito with scrambled egg, lentils or soft tofu, sautéed red pepper, avocado and salsa wrapped in a warm tortilla.Top French toast with yogurt, sunflower seeds and warm sautéed apple slices.Eating outPack good food fast with planned extra leftovers for lunch.Packing lunch is a healthy, budget-friendly habit. Keep it simple: reinvent leftovers for a lunch that’s way better than eating out. Try these tasty ideas:Cook extra chicken for dinner. For lunch, wrap chicken in soft tacos, with crunchy cabbage and shredded carrots, a sprinkle of feta and big squeeze of juicy lime.Roast extra root veggies. Layer them on crusty whole grain bread with hummus and baby spinach for a scrumptious sandwich.Toss extra cooked whole-wheat pasta, couscous or barley with pesto, cherry tomatoes, lentils and small cheese chunks for a protein-packed salad.Clever cookingFlavour food with tangy citrus, fresh herbs and fragrant spices.There are lots of simple ways to cook healthy without sacrificing taste. Try these tips to add flavour to meals:Add pizzazz to plain grains and pulses by cooking barley, brown rice or lentils in low-sodium broth.Stir ½ to 1 cup of canned pumpkin or mashed sweet potato into muffin batter for a veggie boost.Make a luscious mashed potato with roasted garlic, a little olive oil and warm milk.Purée vegetable soups, such as potato, sweet potato or broccoli, with low-sodium broth for deliciously creamy texture and taste.Looking ahead: In week three we will be...

[caption id="attachment_12090" align="alignnone" width="300"] LS Calvin Langager (second from left) accepts the Sailor of the Year plaque from Geraldine Hinton while Cmdre Zwick (left), Commander Canadian Fleet Pacific, and CPO1 Michel Vigneault offer their congratulations.[/caption]CPO1 Michel Vigneault, Fleet Chief Petty Officer ~The 2015 Canadian Fleet Pacific Sailor of the year is LS Calvin Langager, a Boatswain with the Patrol Craft Training Unit (PCTU).Selected from a group of 11 exceptional candidates, LS Langager claimed the title because of his tremendous work ethic, outstanding performance, consumate professionalism, numerous achievements and unwavering volunteer service within the community.LS Langager was born in Saskatoon and enrolled in the Royal Canadian Navy as a Reservist at HMCS Unicorn in March of 1994. Two years ago, after 20 years in the Naval Reserve, he was selected for a Component Transfer to the Regular Force.Posted to PCTU, he eagerly took on the role of unit coordinator for the 2015 Navy Run. His efforts resulted in a high turnout for his unit and, as a runner, he posted one of the fastest times at the unit. He is a constant proponent of physical activity and assists in organizing unit baseball and floor hockey games.Aside from his outstanding contribution to PCTU and the Fleet, LS Langager spends his personal time volunteering as an assistant coach with the Triangle Mountain Novice Red Rockets baseball team where he teaches seven- and eight-year-olds the fundamentals of baseball and teamwork.LS Langager is highly committed to the success of PCTU and is a key member of the Deck Department. He is a dedicated and exceptionally capable sailor whose outstanding leadership has been invaluable to the unit during a period when it was frequently shorthanded. On numerous occasions, he has not only taken on departmental responsibilities of the Master Seaman, but has also taken on duties...

Peter Mallett, Staff writer ~For retired Rear-Admiral Ken Summers, his 25-year old Canadian flag that still emanates the pungent smell of burning oil serves as a poignant symbol of our nation’s role in the liberation of Kuwait.The flag was the first one raised over the Canadian Embassy in Kuwait following the liberation of Kuwait City. With an estimated 700 of the country’s oil wells set alight by the retreating Iraqi forces, the flag was saturated by the black smoke that filled the air.Summers shared his memories of that time on Feb. 26 during CFB Esquimalt’s 25th anniversary ceremony commemorating the liberation of Kuwait.Approximately 200 people, including Persian Gulf veterans, military personnel and their families, and members of the Royal Canadian Legion filled the Naden Drill Shed to mark the occasion.Other dignitaries attended included reviewing officer Capt(N) James Clarke, retired Vice Admiral Jean-Yves Forcier and Rear-Admiral (Ret’d) Roger Girouard.Summers says it’s hard to believe that it was a quarter century ago when he - then a Commodore and Commander of Canadian Forces Middle East Headquarters - proudly raised the flag up the pole at the Canadian Embassy following the liberation.The embassy had been shuttered shortly after the invasion of Kuwait on Aug. 2, 1990 and gaining access wasn’t easy. Summers says he was forced to shoot out the glass on the front door in order to gain access to the building as no key would be made available.Once inside, he realized the flag did not have the proper clips necessary to raise it to the top of the pole, but with some improvisation, the flag was hoisted.Nearby residents quickly took notice and a large crowd amassed outside the embassy gates to celebrate alongside Canadian military members.“When we put the flag back up at the embassy it was a very significant moment,”...

[caption id="attachment_12096" align="alignnone" width="300"] This stone net sinker, found in the waters off Macaulay Point, is a rare artifact.[/caption]Rachel Lallouz , Staff Writer ~ On display now at the CFB Esquimalt Naval and Military Museum is a new exhibit loaned from the Royal B.C. Museum featuring early First Nations settlement and cultural features stretching along Fleming Beach and Macaulay Point.The exhibit brings to life Lekwungen land use through panels, archival photographs and paintings.Especially rare in the exhibit is an original stone net sinker found under water on the reef off the southern end of Macaulay Point. The sinker was used to hold a fishing net down between two canoes.“This area has evidence of a fascinating human history going back over 4,000 years,” says Royal B.C. Museum Curator of Archaeology Grant Keddie.Keddie says the area is especially unique because it is an accessible archaeological site that people can visit and learn from.Macaulay Point was known as Mukwuks by the Lekwungen First Nation on whose traditional territory it is located. Today the Lekwungen are represented by the Esquimalt and Songhees Nations.“I think it’s really important to let people in the local communities know what surrounds them historically,” Keddie says. “When people are aware of their own histories they are much more likely to preserve it and be interested in it.”Echoing his words, CFB Esquimalt Naval and Military Museum Exhibit Designer Clare Sharpe says, “We are pleased to receive the loan of this interpretive display, which is very relevant to new permanent content our own museum has developed in connection with the First Nations presence in this region,” she says.The exhibit will be on display until April 18, 2016.- With files from Clare Sharpe, Museum Exhibit Designer and Webmaster, CFB Naval and Military Museum

[caption id="attachment_12077" align="alignnone" width="224"] James Eke shows off his martial arts skills for his self-published book Warriors Way: A Guide to Lifelong Learning in Martial Arts.[/caption]Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~Captain James Eke’s studies with acclaimed martial arts legend Dan Inosanto has led him to impart that wisdom to a larger audience.  The Captain at 5th Field B.C. Regiment recently penned Warriors Way: A Guide to Lifelong Learning in Martial Arts, in which Eke traces his three decades of study under the world-famous Filipino-American martial arts instructor. That relationship helped him develop this literary expression of Inosanto’s teachings.“It’s my effort not only to help people through the hills and valleys of martial arts training, but also living a fuller life,” says Eke.Warrior’s Way isn’t the 46-year-old reservist, businessman, and former journalist’s attempt at an instructional how-to book. Eke insists his self-published work is all about self-help and a blueprint to living a healthier way of life. He pledges the book will pass on a deeper understanding of what is truly required to master disciplines such as stick-fighting, grappling, kickboxing, Malaysian Silat and Jeet Kune Do.“The completion of this writing project is not about selling copies or making money. I’m truly trying to spread the word, like my instructor did for me,” says Eke. “If only a few people read it and are able to get something out of it that would be the greatest windfall for me.”Inosanto is best known to martial arts fans for his close relationship with the legendary martial artist and actor Bruce Lee. The California-based Inosanto was both a teacher and instructor for Master Lee and once introduced the late martial-arts icon to the nanchuku  (nunchuks).Eke first met Inosanto in 1988 during a weekend seminar in Ottawa, just at a point in his life when Eke was...

[caption id="attachment_12069" align="alignnone" width="300"] Peruvian Prime Minister, Pedro Cateriano crosses the brow to attend areception held onboard HMCS Vancouver on Feb. 22.[/caption]SLt Sean Catterall, Vancouver UPAR ~After three days of rest and relaxation ashore in Mexico, Vancouver departed Manzanillo, Mexico, on Feb. 13 and continued south to conduct strategic engagement activities with the Peruvian Navy.During the second leg of Southploy 2016, Vancouver continued to force generate through various exercises, drills and combat readiness requirements.Happily, it wasn’t all business as the crew took time to conduct a SwimEx in the 30 degree celsius waters north of the Galapagos Islands. The crew also formed teams to compete in a zodiac race around the ship. The afternoon’s leisure and sport competition was followed up with a banyan and a movie on the flight deck.Upon arrival in Lima, Peru, the crew set to work painting the ship, landing gash and making preparations for the reception that would be held on the flight deck the following day. Ambassadors from various countries, Peruvian ministers including the Prime Minister, Pedro Cateriano, and the heads of Peru’s army, navy and air force were received by hosts Canadian Ambassador Gwyneth Kutz and Commodore Jeff Zwick, Commander Canadian Fleet Pacific.On board, Vancouver’s guests were treated to “Moose Milk” as well as Canadian themed appetizers and desserts. Among the distinguished guests was Capt(N) José San Martín Gómez, the Commanding Officer of BAP Villavisencio. In May 2015, this Lupo Class destroyer visited Esquimalt and the city of Vancouver. As the designated host ship during its visit to Canada, it was a nice opportunity for Vancouver and Villavisencio to be reacquainted again in Lima.After a three-day port visit, Vancouver returned to sea in company with BAP Villavisencio to participate in a Combined Anti-submarine Warfare Exercise (CASEX) and PHOTOEX. Joining the day’s exercise were...

[caption id="attachment_12073" align="alignnone" width="300"] Tritons have hometown advantagefor Old Timers Hockey Championship[/caption]Peter Mallett, Staff writer ~ Home-ice advantage may finally give the CFB Esquimalt Senior Tritons a chance to shed their underdog tag at this year’s Canadian Armed Forces Old Timers Hockey Championship.The five-day, five-team, 13-game round-robin tournament began Sunday, March 6, at Wurtele Arena when the Senior Tritons faced off against Prairie Region Champion CFB Edmonton. It will conclude with the championship game on Thursday, March 10, at 8:30 a.m.Senior Tritons assistant coach MS Andrew Johnston says hosting the nationals in their own backyard will allow his team to put together a more competitive lineup. That was not the case at last year’s tournament, held at CFB Borden, when the Tritons finished in last place.With deployment schedules and other operational commitments, players are sometimes unable to get the time off to travel for tournaments.“Guys that might not have been able to be released to play in the tournament will be on our roster this time around,” says MS Johnston. “We are very close to having a full team, but the fact remains we are still a small base who will be facing opponents with much larger talent pools to draw on.”After the tournament curtain-raiser, the Senior Tritons play two games on March 7, battling Atlantic Champion CFB Halifax at 8 a.m. and Ontario Region winner CFB Petawawa at 7:30 p.m. They close out the preliminary round on March 8 at 2 p.m. against defending National Champion, CFB Valcartier.While the team will be relying heavily on friends, family and hockey fans at the base to cheer them on, strong fan support can also be a mixed blessing, explains Senior Tritons defenceman Maj Mark Kierstead.“Hometown support is huge and it can be a significant boost, but also a significant challenge to overcome,”...

[caption id="attachment_12040" align="alignnone" width="300"] Image from website http://voilalearning.com/en/military-family-services/[/caption] CFMWS ~Voilà Learning, in partnership with Military Family Services (MFS), is offering free online homework support to military children enrolled in French immersion and children with questions about their French homework.The Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) Ombudsman Report released in 2013 confirmed that relocation to an environment with a non-fluent predominant second language is a dissatisfying issue among military families.In response to this challenge MFS began working in partnership with other organizations and enterprises to increase accessibility to language learning services and training for military families.As an expansion of Voilà Learning’s existing services the partnership provides military children with access to free online homework help in French.Registration is required when enrolling children to validate that they are from a military family. Once registration is complete a code is emailed to parents allowing children access to the Voilà Learning Virtual Immersion Campus.Children find the customizable avatar-led virtual support of the campus appealing, as the ‘world’ they work in resembles a typical ‘école’. Plus, their questions are answered in real-time by professional teachers in a virtual group setting.The homework help is available to children of military families five to 18 years of age enrolled in a French immersion program and children in the English system taking a French course. Support is available in a variety of subjects on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 5 to11 p.m. EST.Voilà is a not-for-profit organization that unites hundreds of certified French teachers from school boards across Canada and United States. The organization also unites hundreds of members, teachers, educators and school principals with a common goal: to encourage students in their acquisition of the French language and to help parents meet the needs of their children studying in a French program.To view a video detailing how the service can...

To commemorate the 2016 International Women’s Day (IWD) under the theme of Women Moving Forward, MARPAC and the Defence Women’s Advisory Organization (DWAO) will be hosting events on March 7 and 8.A 5 kilometre “Noon Walk for Wellness” is planned for Monday, March 7. The walk will leave at noon from the front of the Pacific Fleet Club building to Saxe Point Park and back. Everyone is welcome to join this stroll in our neighbourhood. Bring along your co-workers, friends and family, and wear bright colours.On March 8, internationally acclaimed financial advisor HCol Diane McCurdy will deliver a keynote speech, followed by a panel discussion. This event will take place from 10 a.m. to noon at the conference room at the Chief and Petty Officers’ Mess.HCol McCurdy will bring insight, experience and enthusiasm to the vital challenge of creating and managing your personal financial plan. She is author of the best-selling financial guide “How Much is Enough?” and is a frequent contributor to national print and broadcast media.HCol McCurdy became involved with the Canadian Armed Forces following a helicopter crash in August 2010 when she was rescued by 442 Squadron. This life event fostered her advocacy for the military community.The keynote will be followed by a one hour panel discussion from 11 a.m. to noon. Several Formation members will join HCol McCurdy on the panel to share their achievements and experiences on various topics that include the field of leadership, work and life balance, life and family, and more. All Defence Team members are invited to join.Supervisor approval is required to attend these events. Due to limited seating for the March 8 event, please RSVP to Emily Zhong at Emily.Zhong@forces.gc.ca or 363-1082.

[caption id="attachment_12026" align="alignnone" width="200"] Ty Gretzky (right), who operates the Gretzky Hockey School, will be in the Canucks Alumni line up for the Heroes Hockey Challenge.[/caption]Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~Ty Gretzky is ready to show off his formidable stick-handling skills in the Heroes Hockey Challenge here in Victoria on March 6.The son of former NHL legend Wayne Gretzky and manager of the Gretzky Hockey school, Ty Gretzky will be in the lineup at the Q Centre for the Sunday game, which features a Vancouver Canucks Alumni team versus the CAF Warriors. Gretzky, 26, operates the Los-Angeles-based Gretzky Hockey School and has been working with Heroes Hockey Challenge (HHC) co-founder Glenn Cumyn since 2014.In its fourth year, the HHC raises money for the Princess Patricia Canadian Light Infantry (PPCLI) Foundation, a group that assists former service members and their families.“I’m happy to give back and support the Heroes Hockey Challenge in any way I’m able,” said Gretzky. “I’m looking forward to coming up to Victoria, meeting everyone and playing alongside the Canucks [alumni] for a worthwhile cause.”To help with the fundraising, Gretzky also donated two spots in the Gretzky Hockey School’s Burnaby camp from Aug. 8 to 12, which raised more than $1,000 for HHC when they were raffled off at a recent B.C. Intercollegiate Hockey League Tournament.Designed and run by the Gretzky family and their friends within the hockey world, the week-long camps are for boys and girls aged seven to 15. In the past, NHL stars such as Wayne Gretzky, Brett Hull and Guy Carbonneau have made appearances at the camps.The Canucks Alumni team in Victoria will feature defenceman Dave Babych and centre Kyle Wellwood. Former Washington Capitals and Detroit Red Wings forward Mark Lofthouse will join them. The team will be coached by Canuck legends Orland Kurtenbach and...

[caption id="attachment_12021" align="alignnone" width="300"] Stock image of HMCS Vancouver[/caption]SLt Sean Catterall, HMCS Vancouver ~HMCS Vancouver left Esquimalt on Feb. 1 on an important strategic mission to Central and South America. We are tasked to support the Royal Canadian Navy’s efforts to strengthen ties with several nations including Peru, Chile and Mexico.In addition to the strategic goals of this deployment, Vancouver will also be bolstering our military relationships by conducting several high intensity warfare training exercises with allied nations.”Vancouver spent 10 days at sea en route to Manzanillo, conducting emergency drills, seamanship training and warfare exercises. After refueling at sea with a US Navy tanker, Vancouver spent two days conducting surface gunnery exercises against a target towed by a remote controlled boat called a Barracuda.Throughout the week, Vancouver flew the embarked Sea-King helicopter “Blackfish”, carrying out a variety of exercises including personnel hoist, helicopter in-flight refueling and haul-down landings.As we crossed the tropic of Cancer, the air and sea temperature increased dramatically, satisfying the crew that we had in-fact escaped Canadian winter.Vancouver arrived in Manzanillo on Feb. 10 and came alongside the cruise ship jetty. After three days alongside soaking up sunshine, enjoying the local cuisine and unwinding, the port visit came to an end.In a few days Vancouver will cross the equator, an occasion that is monumental and memorable in a sailor’s career. More than half of the ship’s company is made up of “tadpoles” who will soon graduate to “shellbacks” after enduring the infamous crossing-the-line ceremony.

[caption id="attachment_12017" align="alignnone" width="300"] HMCS Whitehorse conducts a hoist exercise with a United States Coast Guard (USCG) SH60 Jayhawk helicopter near Mary Island, Alaska, on Feb. 18, while the USCG Ship Liberty sailed in formation.[/caption] SLt Eric Mullen, HMCS Whitehorse ~In the early morning hours on Feb. 18, HMCS Whitehorse sailed into Alaskan waters and conducted a series of exercises in order to enhance interoperability with the United States Coast Guard Cutter (USCGC) Liberty. The two vessels manoeuvred in formation until an American SH-60 Seahawk helicopter from Coast Guard District 17 arrived to conduct a series of helicopter hoists.For Whitehorse and Liberty, a large portion of their manoeuvring was towing exercises. Both crews had opportunities to learn the technically precise nature of the procedures and what is involved in working together to achieve operational effectiveness. The same can be said for the air crew of the SH-60 while practicing helicopter hoists.Since interoperability requires both the sharing of knowledge and the forging of relationships, both ships also set time aside to exchange sailors for the afternoon. Guests enjoyed lunch and a tour of their host ship, and met with their professional counterparts. In addition, the crew of Whitehorse prepared a care package of baked good for the helicopter crew to enjoy.The last time Whitehorse cooperated with the USCG was during Operation Caribbe in October 2015. En route to the operating area, Whitehorse led ships from the United States Navy, the USCG, and the Secretaría de Marina in a Passage Exercise, which is any number of naval exercises grouped together and executed while transiting to and from locations. This exercise, just like the one completed this month, helps to promote interoperability and give our ships the training to be able to seamlessly integrate with naval partners.Over the coming weeks, Whitehorse will continue its...

[caption id="attachment_12014" align="alignnone" width="300"] Crew members wave from the deck of HMCS Winnipeg as it arrived home on Tuesday, Feb. 23.[/caption]On Feb. 23, HMCS Winnipeg returned home to be reunited with families and friends after an extremely successful eight and a half month deployment.I would like to extend my sincerest congratulations to the entire crew of HMCS Winnipeg for your devotion to duty, excellence at sea, and resilience in the face of many challenges. You have come together as a ship’s company and demonstrated to all our allies the Royal Canadian Navy’s capability and commitment to international maritime security.The focus of your mission was the six months spent on Operation Reassurance, during which time you served with two standing NATO Maritime Groups, in support of NATO’s mission to build maritime situational awareness in the Mediterranean Sea and European waters.Your work on Operation Reassurance has strengthened our reputation in NATO as a dependable ally and skilled fighting force.It is also important to recognize that you were engaged in operations, both before and after Operation Reassurance. Upon the start of the deployment, you conducted surveillance patrols in the eastern Pacific Ocean, in support of Operation Caribbe, and on your return transit to Canada, you participated in counterterrorism and maritime security operations in the Red Sea and Indian Ocean in support of Operation Artemis.During the final month of your deployment, you continued to further Canada’s strategic interests through port visits In India, Malaysia, Singapore and Japan. During your visits you promoted Canada’s security and national interests and advanced the RCN’s interoperability with other navies.Since starting this extensive mission in June 2015, you have circumnavigated the globe and sailed more than 53,875 nautical miles, spent 254 days at sea, operated with 102 ships from 20 other navies, and visited 17 different countries. Your ship’s...

[caption id="attachment_12003" align="alignnone" width="300"] CAF Warriors and former NHL players gather for a group shot following the Abbotsford Heroes Hockey Challenge in April 2013.[/caption]Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~A cast of NHL alumni are sharpening their skates and taping their sticks, preparing for a charity hockey battle against top hockey players from the Canadian Armed Forces.The Heroes Hockey Challenge Victoria 2016 gets underway March 6 at 5:30 p.m. at the Q Centre in Colwood. The game features Vancouver Canucks Alumni and other celebrities facing off against the Warriors, a squad of top players participating in the Canadian Armed Forces Old Timers Championship at the Wurtele Arena from March 6 to 10.Alumnus participating in this year’s game include defenceman Dave Babych, and centres Cliff Ronning and Kyle Wellwood. Also part of the team will be forward Mark Lofthouse, who played with the Washington Capitals, Detroit Red Wings and Winnipeg Jets, and Ty Gretzky, son of hockey icon Wayne Gretzky.“This event is an excellent opportunity for Canadian Armed Forces members to play with some of Vancouver Canucks hockey’s greatest in support of a worthy cause,” said RAdm Gilles Couturier, Commander Maritime Forces Pacific. “All of the money raised will go directly towards programs and services that benefit wounded military members, veterans, their families, and our Esquimalt Military Family Resource Centre (MFRC).”Proceeds from the $10 general admission tickets will go to support Heroes Hockey Challenge, owned by the Princess Patricia Canadian Light Infantry (PPCLI) Foundation, a group that supports former service members and their families; funds raised from a 50/50 draw will go to the Esquimalt MFRC.LGen (Ret’d) Ken Foster, President of the PPCLI Foundation, and RAdm Couturier hatched the plan for a Heroes Hockey Challenge (HHC) game in Victoria over a recent dinner engagement.HHC, now in its fourth year, has hosted events in...

[caption id="attachment_11998" align="alignnone" width="300"] A Roto 2 member takes a sight of the avalanche zones on Rogers Pass on one of the  105-mm C3 howitzers located at a road-side gun platform.[/caption]Ashley Black, CJOC ~For over 50 years, the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) and Parks Canada have been preventing avalanches using the best known method: creating avalanches.In 1962, Roger’s Pass opened as a mountain pass where the Trans-Canada Highway and the Canadian Pacific Railway cross the Selkirk Mountains in British Columbia. In an effort to prevent naturally-occurring avalanches, Parks Canada and the CAF partnered together for Canada’s largest avalanche-control program, known to the CAF as Operation Palaci.The annual program starts in late November with the goal of preventing uncontrolled avalanches by creating small, more frequent avalanches in controlled settings.For this year’s first rotation, 17 members of the Avalanche Control Troop have deployed to Operation Palaci and have been through extensive training to prepare for avalanche control operations.To ensure the program is successful, Parks Canada staff is responsible for examining snow profiles. Their experts examine snow temperatures, moisture content and conduct various stability tests to determine when avalanche control may be required.Parks Canada’s avalanche forecasters, and technicians, closely monitor weather, snowfall and snow pack to assess avalanche hazards.“This analysis is an ongoing, iterative process,” said Jeff Goodrich, Senior Avalanche Officer at Parks Canada.If a snowpack is deemed unstable after much analysis, Parks Canada calls upon the CAF to perform avalanche control operations. A C3 105-mm Howitzer is used to conduct shoots that create small, controlled avalanches.“Pre-registered targets are carefully chosen by Parks Canada in order to trigger avalanches before they become a danger to the highway. Upon order, the Avalanche Control Troop engages these targets with high explosive projectiles fired from the C3 105-mm Howitzer from various gun positions along the highway,”...

[caption id="attachment_11993" align="alignnone" width="300"] Members of the Marine System Engineering department on board HMCS Winnipeg hold their career advancing qualifications certificates received from Cdr Jeffrey Hutchinson, the ship’s Commanding Officer in the centre.[/caption]SLt Jamie Tobin, HMCS Winnipeg ~After a successful deployment on Operation Reassurance, nine members of HMCS Winnipeg’s Marine Systems Engineering (MSE) department challenged certification boards to obtain their next level of qualification and all nine were successful.“We are overwhelmed by this clean sweep and the overall success of our team,” said Lieutenant (Navy) Justin Dunn, the Deputy MSE Officer who recently obtained his Head of Department qualification. “All of the candidates put in a lot of hard work and they are all well-deserving of their accomplishments.”Four members obtained their Certification Level III: Engineering Officer of the Watch qualification; three members obtained their Certification Level IV: Chief Engine Room Artificer qualification, one completed Phase IV training and another obtained his Head of Department qualification.“The Royal Canadian Navy is constantly in need of qualified engineers to sail our ships and HMCS Winnipeg has certainly done more than its fair share to support the fleet,” said Commander Jeff Hutchinson, Winnipeg’s Commanding Officer.Four members from Canadian Fleet Pacific’s engineering staff embarked on Winnipeg during the ship’s port visit in Singapore and sailed with the ship for eight days to conduct the boards.“The candidates were well prepared and they all impressed us with their performance. They made our job on board quite easy,” said Lieutenant-Commander Robert Petitpas, the Damage Control Division Commander and one of the board members.In addition to the nine new qualifications in recent weeks, seven members of the ship’s MSE department achieved their Auxiliary Machinery Operators Certificate and nine members received their Certification Level 2: Machinery Console Operator certification during the ship’s deployment totalling 22 new qualifications for Winnipeg throughout...

[caption id="attachment_11988" align="alignnone" width="300"] Kuwait veterans[/caption] Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~CFB Esquimalt will celebrate the 25th anniversary of the liberation of Kuwait with a commemorative ceremony on Feb. 26 at the Naden Drill Shed.Joining serving personnel and veterans will be guest speakers, and Gulf War veterans, Rear-Admiral (Retired) Ken Summers and RAdm (Retired) Roger Girouard. Also attending will be special guest Vice-Admiral (Retired) Jean Yves Forcier, former Commander of Canada Command.During the 1990-91 Persian Gulf crisis, VAdm(Ret’d) Forcier was seconded for six months as Deputy Chief of Staff Operations with the Canadian Naval Task Group and later with the Canadian Forces Middle East Headquarters in Bahrain, for which he was “Mentioned in Dispatch.”The proceedings will commence at 9:45 a.m., and is one of six events planned at Canadian Armed Forces bases across Canada to commemorate the end of the Persian Gulf War on Feb. 28, 1991.  Canada’s military, along with 33 coalition nations, took part in various operations to thwart Iraq’s invasion and annexation of Kuwait.Harold Davis, president of the recently formed Persian Gulf Veterans of Canada (PGVC), says it’s been an “uphill struggle” to get Canadians to acknowledge this war.“Some recognition is not too much to ask for,” he says. “That’s what the Korean War veterans had asked for so many years. I’m not holding my breath that things will change overnight. I just keep pounding the pavement and try to raise awareness and recruit more members to our group.”His group represents past and current Canadian military members who served in the war.“While many Canadians have a short memory when it comes to the Persian Gulf War, the soldiers, sailors and aviators who served have a very long memory.”The Royal Canadian Legion Branch 91 in Langford recently announced it will host an anniversary ceremony on Feb. 28, the official date that then-U.S. President George...