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The majority of boxes have been unpacked in the Admiral’s house and RAdm Bill Truelove is settling into his corner office at D100 with a view of Esquimalt Harbour and the task at hand – commanding Maritime Forces Pacific (MARPAC) and Joint Task Force Pacific (JTFP). “It’s incredible to be back here,” he said staring out his window. “It’s been five years since we were on this coast and we are thrilled to be back among these folks and this exciting team.” Late last year from his post in Kabul, Afghanistan, RAdm Truelove learned his next post would be in Victoria where he would assume the responsibilities of Commander of MARPAC and JTFP. “Getting this appointment was a thrill for me. It is both exciting and daunting to a degree as it is a significant posting. When I received official word I was incredibly honoured and humbled by the announcement,” he said.  RAdm Truelove began his career at Royal Roads military college and he met his wife Brenda on a blind date in Victoria. “We got married in front of the castle at Royal Roads and Victoria is home for Brenda, so she is very happy to be back,” he said. “We both have a lot of history here and it’s nice to see familiar faces.” RAdm Truelove grew up a “navy brat”.  His father served 36 years and attained the rank of Chief Petty Officer. “My dad has always taught me the critical role that our chiefs, petty officers and leaders play in the navy. I grew up seeing him go away a lot and we moved every few years and now I have done that with my children. My daughter reminded me once that it was 12 schools in 13 years and it struck home with me that we can never thank our families enough for what they do to support us,” he said. RAdm Truelove’s daughter Ashley is a nanny in Switzerland, while his son Anthony is...

Four contract awards for Department of National Defence and Canadian Forces related infrastructure projects which total $10.9 million were announced last Thursday by Minister MacKay during his visit to CFB Esquimalt. The four projects including replacing obsolete electrical equipment at Canadian Forces Ammunition Depot Rocky Point, outfitting the Canadian Towed Array Sonar System block, repairs to A-Jetty, and the replacement of transformers at the Canadian Forces Fleet School. “The Government of Canada is determined to provide modern, efficient and effective infrastructure for our Canadian Forces personnel. I am pleased to show continued progress on these goals, which is in line with our commitment to give our men and women in uniform the support they need so they are fully prepared when the call to action comes,” said Minister MacKay. “These projects also provide the economy with important local jobs,” he said. Rocky Point’s Ammunition Depot upgrade to their electrical and communications systems includes the installation of a new electrical grid including feeder lines, distribution panels and transformers to magazines and improved lighting. G&E Contracting was awarded the $5.8 million contract. The Canadian Towed Array Sonar System block is a 1,600 square meter extension to Fleet Maintenance Facility’s Dockyard 250 which houses the new combat/electronic work centre. This work centre will include the units responsible for the maintenance and repair efforts conducted on all electronic ship systems, such as communications, radar and electronic warfare sensor equipment.  The contract involves outfitting this facility with the electrical, mechanical architectural and industrial shop support features required for the functions that will be found within the building. Ledcor Construction has been awarded the $2.9 million contract. A-jetty’s structural repair involves the replacement deteriorated piles, bracing, timbers and other key structural members. RUSKIN Construction won this $1.1 million contract for services. Canadian Forces Fleet School’s transformer...

[caption id="attachment_1510" align="alignnone" width="300"] Base Commander Capt(N) Bob Auchterlonie assumed command from Capt(N) Craig Baines during the Change of Command Ceremony held in Naden’s Parade Square. The change of command cermony was administered by RAdm Bill Truelove (centre).[/caption] Friends, family, and colleagues gathered last Thursday to bid farewell to a great leader – Capt(N) Craig Baines - and warmly welcome the new head of CFB Esquimalt. In a Change of Command ceremony held on Museum Square, Capt(N) Baines passed on the responsibilities of Base Commander to Capt(N) Bob Auchterlonie. The ceremony was attended by dignitaries from surrounding municipalities and communities, including Esquimalt mayor Barbara Desjardins and representatives of the Esquimalt and Salish First Nations, Chief Andy Thomas, Elder Mary Anne Thomas and Elder Elmer George. “While I am happy to pass on the reasonability of command, this day is also bittersweet,” said Capt(N) Baines. “Having command is a bit like playing poker, with the mission as the pot. Luckily for me I was dealt a hand of aces. One of those aces is every man and woman, civilian and military, of CFB Esquimalt. For all that you’ve done in these past few years, I would like to personally thank you.” Capt(N) Baines expressed in excitement and respect for Capt(N) Auchterlonie, and the comfort with which he turns over command. “He is a man of tremendous experience and professionalism, and I’m excited to see where we’re going, and how we’re going to get there,” he said before the turnover. “I can’t tell you what a pleasure it is to turn command over to such a great friend and know that all the great work the men and women of CFB Esquimalt do will continue under his watch.” Following his speech, he joined Capt(N) Auchterlonie and RAdm Truelove in signing over command....

[caption id="attachment_1504" align="alignnone" width="300"] Command of the Base Construction Engineering (BCE) branch changed hands July 11 when outgoing Commanding Officer Col Darlene Quinn said goodbye to colleagues and friends and LCol Matthew Johnsen took the reign.[/caption] After two years as Commanding Officer of Base Construction Engineering (BCE), Col Darlene Quinn stepped down July 11. Taking her place is LCol Matt Johnsen. Below, Col Quinn reflects on her service at CE. Describe the highlights of your time in this position. I became Commanding Officer (CO) of the Base Construction Engineering Branch in July 2010.  On the technical side, some of the highlights have been growing our infrastructure maintenance program to a level that will make tangible inroads in improving the condition of our infrastructure, as well as seeing the progress of the major capital program.   On the leadership side, without doubt my highlight has been watching the individual people in the Branch stretch themselves to new levels, take on new skills and responsibilities and fulfill every major challenge thrown their way.   On a professional level, I have enjoyed broadening my infrastructure knowledge to include navy-specific infrastructure such as the jetties, the dry dock, and the oily waste water treatment plant.  In the past, I have served as BCEO for both the army and for the air force.  This has been my first experience with the navy and I have thoroughly enjoyed it. What will you miss most about this post? I will miss the pace of activity. Engineering at this level is exhilarating because it is such a fast paced and rapidly changing environment. What is next for you? I will be moving to Ottawa to take up the post of Director General Military Engineering (DGME). DGME is Associate Deputy Minister Infrastructure and Environment’s (ADM(IE) lead for capital construction,...

[caption id="attachment_1500" align="alignnone" width="300"] The Honourable Peter Mackay, Minister of National Defence (left), discusses the submarine HMCS Chicoutimi with its Commanding Officer, LCdr Andy Cooper.[/caption] Sailors from HMCS Calgary and the submarine HMCS Chicoutimi saddled up this past weekend to join soldiers and airmen and women participating in the 100th Anniversary of the Calgary Stampede. Calgary sailors make an appearance every year to coincide with their annual Namesake City visit. The “Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth” kicked off at 9 a.m. Friday, July 6 with the Stampede parade, where fireworks and a Snowbirds flypast signalled the beginning. More than  300,000 people lined the streets to watch the parade, which included the colourful heraldry of marching bands from all over the world, over one hundred floats, horse teams, cultural displays, and military contingents. All three elements were represented in the parade. The Naden Band of Maritime Forces Pacific led sailors from Calgary, Chicoutimi, and Tecumseh, Calgary’s naval reserve unit. They were followed by members of 1 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group (1 CMBG), a Leopard tank, and Coyote with crew. The Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) banner flew before a marching contingent of airmen and women and the Cold Lake Band. Each contingent took up the length of an entire city block, drawing applause and standing ovations as they passed. At the Stampede Grounds, static displays from all three elements are set up to encourage interest and curiosity from the general public. Children play in the Rigid-hulled inflatable boat (RHIB) supplied by HMCS Tecumseh, clamour into a G-Wagon, sit in an F-18 cockpit and straddle the saddle on Chicoutimi’s MK 48 torpedo. The displays are very popular and well attended, but none so much as the Explosive Ordnance Disposal robot, which draws many smiles and nervous laughter when it unexpectedly follows people...

Ammo tech among first four civilians deployed to Afghanistan.

[caption id="attachment_1398" align="alignnone" width="300"] CFB Esquimalt received the first of three new firetrucks designed and engineered to last the next 25 years.[/caption] CFB Esquimalt Fire Department recently received a custom-built 2012 Class A Pump Fire Truck, one of three trucks being purchased over the next two years to replace CFB Esquimalt’s aging fleet of fire fighting apparatus. The truck was designed specifically for CFB Esquimalt firefighters, with the unique situations found in fighting fires on a naval base in mind. The truck sports a smaller water tank and a side-mounted control panel that makes the vehicle lighter and shorter over all, and allows it to travel across jetties safely. Increased hose storage and a pumping volume of 2,000 gallons a minute enhances the mobility and power needed to respond to fires aboard ships and the large buildings found within CFB Esquimalt. Safety was also a focus in the design. The cab of the truck can withstand a roll over, protecting the controls as well as fire fighters. There are also systems in place that ensure seatbelts are fastened and doors closed. Tom Mehmel of Fort Garry Fire Trucks says the design specifications are intended to make the jobs of CFB Esquimalt’s Fire Department easier and most importantly safer. “The most important thing is protecting the fire fighters,” says Mehmel. “This isn’t a backyard creation. The safety systems that are in place are there to protect the lives of the fire fighters and the general public on the way to a call.” Rick LeQuesne, Deputy Fire Chief at the CFB Esquimalt Fire Department, reviewed the truck design, and offered suggestions based on what CFB Esquimalt’s fire fighters need to do their jobs. He says one of the main strengths of the vehicle is its versatility and adaptability. “The vehicle has a...

[caption id="attachment_1392" align="alignnone" width="300"] Lt Iphigenia Morales on board the American naval hospital ship USNS Mercy working as a staff nurse.[/caption] Canadian Forces nurse Lt Iphigenia Morales is getting the training opportunity of a lifetime. She’s currently on board the Amercian naval hospital ship USNS Mercy working as a staff nurse.   The noncombatant ship is part of the UN Pacific Partnership 12, a humanitarian and civic assistance mission to Indonesia, the Philippines, Vietnam and Cambodia. It left on a four-and-a-half month humanitarian journey May 3 from San Diego, and is crewed by 70 civil service mariners working for Military Sealift Command, who operate and navigate the ship while navy planners and medical personnel plan and execute the mission. Japanese landing ship tank Oosumi, carrying a complete medical team, helicopters and representatives from Japanese volunteer organizations, will join Mercy during its stops in the Philippines and Vietnam. The 28-year-old nurse from Canadian Forces Health Services (Pacific) has joined the Medical Surgery Ward, helping prepare and assist pre- and post-surgery patients. Upon hearing of the ship’s arrival, people begin lining up on the jetty in the wee hours of the morning waiting to be ferried to the ship. The civil service mariners operate two 33-foot utility boats to transport patients and mission personnel between ship’s anchorage and shore. Mercy is too large to pull pier side at any of the mission stops. The operation of these small boats, which carry more than twice as many passengers as Mercy’s two embarked helicopters, greatly increase the number of people who will benefit from the mission. “Lines of more than 500 patients begin forming at three in the morning, waiting for the clinic to open, and yet the people remain positive and excited to interact with us,” says Lt Morales. In Sangihe, Indonesia, she...

[caption id="attachment_1386" align="alignnone" width="300"] LS Sean Hemeon, with MS Ryan Russell (inset), both weapons technicians, help unload the Close In Weapons System on board HMCS Charlottetown.[/caption] Weapons for fighting, radar for detection and navigation, the horizon-reference system that helps the Sea King helicopter land safely — all these systems are under the care of the Combat Systems Engineering (CSE) Department, which handles much of the crucial maintenance involved in keeping a ship combat-ready at sea. One piece of kit aboard HMCS Charlottetown is all too familiar to the members of the CSE Department: the Mk 15 PHALANX 20-mm Close-In Weapon System, abbreviated “CIWS”, known to most as the Sea Whiz. The ship’s last ditch defence mechanism, the CIWS is a radar-guided six-barrelled Gatling-type gun system that fires bursts or continuously at either 3,000 or 4,500 rounds per minute. It is located on top of the ship’s hangar to engage fast-moving close-range targets such as diving missiles and aircraft, and attacking gun-boats. If this powerful machine is to be ready to defend the ship, the CSE Department members must perform “the upload.” “Whether it’s five degrees in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean in winter, or a scorching 35 degrees in the Mediterranean, this thing’s got to be ready to go at all times,” says LS Matthew Martin, a weapons technician serving in Charlottetown. The call comes across the CSE “meet-me” net: “All on-watch CSE personnel muster CSE flats, CIWS upload.” It takes two minutes for the required personnel to get into their jackets and leather-palmed gloves. Within 10 minutes, everyone is already beginning the task, with MS Kelly Spicer and LS Timothy Tyler preparing the ammunition in a compartment immediately under the gun mount, and the rest of the group at work on the hangar roof. To ensure its complex...

[caption id="attachment_1350" align="alignnone" width="300"] The crew of NOTC Venture rides the Big Bike for charity.[/caption] At 39 years old the last thing I ever thought my spouse Blaise and I would face was the news that he needed open heart surgery in order to replace his mitral valve. Leading up to the day we were told of his condition, life seemed fairly normal. The kids had gone back to school and Blaise started to experience some flu-like symptoms. He just thought they had brought home the latest virus and he was the next victim. This went on for a few days and through some coaxing I finally talked him into going to the hospital to get checked out. Less than 24 hours later he was told he had endocarditis, which, as was explained to us, is inflammation of the inside lining of the heart chambers and heart valves. Two weeks in the Jubilee Hospital, and six weeks of home antibiotic therapy later the impact of the endocarditis and infection was known and surgery was scheduled.   The support of the amazing doctors involved and the information that was made available to us from the Heart and Stroke Foundation truly got us through this period of our lives, and Blaise is doing great. Fast forward to a few months ago when the advertisement for this year’s Heart and Stroke - Big Bike Challenge caught my eye. Who couldn’t have fun with 29 people on a bike, riding through downtown Victoria. With promotional package in hand I approached our Executive Officer, LCdr Ryan Klassen who agreed without hesitation to become the Team Leader. His brilliant mind at work, the team name “BLogged Arteries” was conceived. This was our first year in this event and the team raised $1,763.10 for this very worthwhile...

[caption id="attachment_1346" align="alignnone" width="300"] As a recipient of the  Star of Military Valour, Sergeant Jeremy Pinchin, SMV, listens to The Decorated inaugural speech given by the Chief of Defence Staff, General Walter Natynczyk.[/caption] A new initiative called The Decorated Programme was unveiled June 14 in Ottawa. It aims to increase awareness of the outstanding achievements of decorated CF members. The Decorated recognizes the bravest of the brave: those who display the ultimate example of devotion to duty in the presence of the enemy, or who willingly and knowingly place themselves in harm’s way to save or protect others. This initiative is being promoted a number of ways. An exhibit featuring portraits and citations of highly decorated CF members is presently situated in the National Capital Region until the end of June, and will travel throughout the country to various bases in the fall and early next year. The Decorated website has been launched and features military valour and bravery decoration recipients dating back to 2001, and other related news. Also, news stories on decorated CF members will be featured in upcoming issues of The Maple Leaf. “Canadian Forces members have always, and will continue to exemplify a set of military values that are dear to us all: duty, loyalty, integrity and courage,” says Chief of the Defence Staff General Walt Natynczyk while unveiling The Decorated programme in Ottawa. “The Canadian Forces members celebrated within The Decorated represent the very best qualities of all those who serve, whether it be in battle or while helping those in need.” To learn more about the decorated CF members featured within The Decorated program, please visit the Defence Team website at http://dt-ed.mil.ca/ Corporate Internal Communications

[caption id="attachment_1341" align="alignnone" width="300"] Counter-piracy. On April 26, 2009 a member of the Naval Boarding Party stands watch as Her Majesty's Canadian Ship (HMCS) Winnipeg participates in an SNMG1 port visit to Karachi Pakistan to increase awareness of NATO activities in the region.[/caption] Royal Roads University, the Asia Pacific Center for Security Studies, and Maritime Forces Pacific will be holding the biennial Maritime Security Challenges conference in Victoria, B.C. from Oct 1-3, 2012 Women have made tremendous strides in the United States Armed Forces; however, many still seek further equality in the realm of combat operations. In February, the Pentagon opened up 14,000 positions for servicewomen that were previously unavailable to them, marking a milestone that will see females in roles such as intelligence officers, tank mechanics, and rocket launcher crew members. While there are still approximately 255,000 combat-related roles that women are prohibited from participating in, the nature of modern warfare has distorted the concept of front lines, ensuring that every person deployed to a warzone, male or female, has the potential to become involved in combat. The unbalanced differentiation between the U.S. military and the adversaries they face in combat zones in Afghanistan and Iraq have forced insurgent groups to confront American and allied forces in irregular ways, which have made non-combat roles extremely dangerous. The threat of suicide bombings, improvised explosive devices, and ambush tactics carried out by guerrillas disguised as allied security forces have all been evident in countless instances. This challenge of unconventional warfare has increased the demand for more combat-ready troops, and has led the U.S. military to allow women to be attached to battle units. Although women cannot officially participate in U.S. infantry or special forces operations, they are still regularly subject to warfare dangers through attachment to combat groups in supporting roles...

[caption id="attachment_1268" align="alignnone" width="300"] PO2 Matthew Grady gives the order to unveil the HMCS Huron Screw Monument at the Military Museums on June 3, in Calgary, Alberta.[/caption] Naval veterans and dignitaries gathered Sunday June 3 for the unveiling of HMCS Huron’s port screw. Also on hand were member of the public, as the unveiling coincided with Armed Forces Day at the Military Museums in Calgary, Alberta.   The 17-foot, five blade variable-pitch port screw was shipped in eight parts from Esquimalt to Calgary by Arthur Hazle, and then cleaned using a high-pressure water jet by Murray Hazle. Don Connolly, Gary Hansen, Jack Pidgeon, Gord Rowan and Andy Madsen then hand buffed all the surfaces and applied a clear coat to prevent future discoloration. The unveiling ceremony took place outside the Naval Museum of Alberta. Lieutenant-Governor Donald S. Ethell, Member of Parliament Rob Anders, and Calgary Deputy Mayor Diane Colley-Urquhart each spoke before Rear-Admiral Mark Norman, Deputy to the Commander of the RCN, ordered the unveiling.   The monument is dedicated to “the men and women who served in the boiler and engine rooms of the ships of the RCN in the 20th century.” A good number of these engine room artificers and stokers were on hand for the ceremony. Scott Hausberg, Contributor

[caption id="attachment_1264" align="alignnone" width="300"] Bentinck Island boom in training.[/caption] Fleet School boatswain students no longer have to pack a bag and travel across the country to receive Qualification Level 6 training to ready them for Range Safety Officer duties. The three-month course, which includes two weeks of hands-on demolition training on Bentinck Island, is now available at CFB Esquimalt as a pilot trial. Only a handful of boatswains are chosen – between eight and twelve students for each serial. Live training is always the most exciting, with students learning to set explosives and then detonating and watching it blow up. The upward spray of sand usually earns a gasp or two from them. Bentinck Island, long ago a leper colony, is DND’s demolition range and test site range for explosives. Its location so close to Race Rocks Ecological Preserve means many procedures are in place to ensure continued protection of that area.   Fleet School pays particular attention to the time of the year, avoiding nesting birds, new seal pups and migration of marine mammals such as whales and sea lions. Blasts are spaced out at a minimum of 10 minute intervals, and the size of the explosion is carefully monitored. “We maintain a constant watch for all land and marine animals,” says PO1 Raymond Shaw, demolitions instructor of Fleet School’s Seamanship Division. “We continually work with outside agencies, cooperating with their studies as to how our training impacts the wildlife nearby at Race Rocks. We ensure our activities are conducted in a manner and in an area where there isn’t a chance of harming wildlife.” To ensure the explosion is small, yet impressive, they use C4 plastic explosive. “Its the same material that demolitions teams would use to clear beaches of a large objects, or clear navigational hazards at...

“We are the invisible minority” says Capt(N) Luc Cassivi, the Chief of Staff Plans and Operations at Maritime Forces Pacific Headquarters. “We have gone ahead in spades in lesbian, gay and transgender issues in the Canadian Forces, but if we don’t keep it on our minds, we will fall back into complacency and we don’t want to go there.” With 29 years of service as a submariner, Capt(N) Cassivi has experienced a sea-change in attitudes regarding gays, lesbians and transgendered members in uniform. Given that June is National Gay and Lesbian Pride month, sexual minority service members such as Capt(N) Cassivi pause for consideration when assessing their experiences in uniform. Joining the Navy in 1983, Capt(N) Cassivi graduated from the Collège Militaire Royale du Canada at a time when the CF actively enforced a policy of systemic discrimination banning gays and lesbians from military service. “In those days, we were an organization rooted in conservative values,” says Capt(N) Cassivi.   Exposed to repeated insensitivities coupled with the fear of being found out, the young submariner’s thoughts were pervaded with a sense of fear and reprisal. “There was a special investigations unit in the military during those days whose aim was entrapment and rooting us out. It was awful and it was traumatic,” says Capt(N) Cassivi. According to Professor Alan Okros, Deputy Director of Academics at the Canadian Forces College in Toronto, between 1988 and 1992, the CF introduced an interim policy not to actively recruit lesbian and gay members; however, those current serving members who were ‘determined’ to be either lesbian or gay were deemed ‘career frozen’. “Those individuals were not eligible for training, promotion, deployments or career courses,” says Dr. Okros. Many lesbian and gay members released from service as a result. Yet change was coming. The cause for...

[caption id="attachment_1234" align="alignnone" width="300"] The ship’s company of HMCS Protecteur gathered in the Naden Drill shed June 11 for presentations of the medals with the Expedition Ribbon for their role in Operation Carribe.[/caption] Dressed in their Number Ones, the crew of HMCS Protecteur stood erect and proud in the Naden Drill Hall June 11, set to receive their individual medals for a mission well done. The honour was for their work supplying Operation Caribbe’s ships, who were working to halt the flow of illegal drugs into North America through the Caribbean Sea, the Gulf of Mexico, and the shores of Central and South America. Under the direction of Canada Command, Protecteur provided support in missions taking place from August to October 2010. During that time, they travelled to and from the “hot zone” of operations off the coast of Columbia, providing more than eight million gallons of fuel to participating patrol ships. Protecteur also sailed support missions from May to June 2011 in the Caribbean Basin and the East Pacific. Op Caribbe was responsible for 33 arrests, as well as the confiscation of 12 metric tons of cocaine, totalling a street value of more than $235 million. Cdr Todd Bonnar, Commanding Officer of Protecteur, and crew received the Operational Support Medal (OSM). The OSM was awarded in 2010 to recognize certain military operations for which there were no medals available.  It is awarded to those who are deserving of recognition due to the service granted and risks taken on overseas missions in potentially dangerous environments. “The crew did exceptionally well,” said Cdr Bonnar. “They had to endure a sweltering work environment. The average temperature in the Gulf had to be in low 30s." RAdm Bill Truelove, Commander Maritime Forces Pacific/Joint Task Force Pacific, came to speak to the crew and...

[caption id="attachment_1162" align="alignnone" width="300" caption="His Honour Steven Point, Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia, and CFB Esquimalt Base Commander, Capt(N) Craig Baines, paddle across Esquimalt harbour to A Jetty in a First Nations dugout canoe with eight First Nations paddlers."][/caption]Through the misty spray churned up by Firebrand’s hoses, a wooden craft slowly approached A jetty last Friday. Propelling it through the harbour were 10 men of varying ages and strength, each pulling a brightly painted paddle through the water. As the black vessel, with a hand carved eagle mounted at the stern, pulled alongside A jetty, onlookers were able to see more clearly just who had arrived. The paddlers were Lieutenant Governor Steven Point, Base Commander Capt(N) Craig Baines, Inspector Steven Ing, George Taylor and the Le-la-la Dancers. The guests were here to co-celebrate National Aboriginal Day and National Public Service Week with hundreds of DND employees. The Le-la-la Dancers performed a series of ceremonial dances, including the Chief’s Peace dance. This dance symbolizes the trust between the local First Nations and the Canadian Forces, a dance few outside the First Nations community witness. After the dances, LGov Point took the podium to address the crowd. “We have every right to celebrate. We have every right to be proud of who we are; never forgetting our culture, but ever so willing to share that which we remember, and that which we know,” said LGov Point. “I believe these celebrations must continue not only because we have survived as a people, but because we’re going to march into the next century as a growing and thriving part of this country. We’re going to make a contribution to this country that will mark us as Canadians above and beyond.” LGov Point reflected on a tumultuous past and described his vision for a better...

[caption id="attachment_1157" align="alignnone" width="300" caption="Lt(N) Rick Kappel relaxes in the zodiac, with FGS Rottweil in the background after diving for mines in the Baltic Sea."][/caption]Fleet Diving Unit (Pacific) made history when they deployed a clearance diving team on board the German mine hunting ship Rottweil for Operation Open Spirit, held May 10-25.   The operation involved locating and disposing of Second World War legacy sea mines in the Baltic Sea, where thousands of mines still pose a hazard to shipping.   Nearly 80,000 mines were laid mainly by German and Russian forces during the First and Second World Wars to deny freedom of movement on the seas. Tens of thousands are still unaccounted for. The annual operation was led by the Estonian Navy this year, with several navies participating, mainly from the Baltic region, but was the first time for Canada. This was also the first time a Canadian Clearance Diving Team (CAN CDT) worked side by side with German Minentauchers (Mine Divers) to conduct Naval Mine Countermeasure (NMCM) clearance operations. The experience not only provided valuable operational exposure for the team, but under the spirit of “partnership for peace”, also a significant stride forward in building a professional working relationship between the two countries’ navies.   The German mine hunting ships are state of the art. They are designed to minimize magnetic and acoustic signatures that can trigger “influence” mines to detonate. Rottweil also employed hull-mounted sonar and an autonomous underwater vehicle that uses side scan sonar to map the sea bottom. Upon recovery of the vehicle, German and Canadian underwater divers analyzed the information and classified contacts. Mine-like contacts were investigated by diving on their position and confirming their origin. More than 200 dives were collectively conducted by the two teams during the two-week operation; 15 mines were...

  [caption id="attachment_1105" align="alignnone" width="300" caption="The Guard of Honour, 440 strong, marched through the Township of Esquimalt in the Freedom of the City Parade."][/caption]Ominous clouds and warm drizzle couldn’t dampen the mood at the Freedom of the City ceremony last Thursday. Adults, children, and retired service members lined the rain slick sidewalk to get a view of the assembled guard of nearly 500 Canadian Forces personnel as they marched down Esquimalt Road with colours flying, bayonets fixed, and the drums of the Naden Band pounding. The ceremony was in recognition of the centennial of the Township of Esquimalt, and the relationship between the township and the Canadian Forces. Assembled forces gathered on the steps of Esquimalt Municipal Hall where they were stopped by Police Chief Jamie Graham of the Victoria Police Department and asked to identify themselves before approaching municipal hall, as the tradition dictates. Capt(N) Craig Baines, Base Commander for CFB Esquimalt, identified their intention to exercise their right of Freedom of the Township, and approached the doors of the municipal hall, striking them three times with the pommel of his sword to gain audience with Mayor Barbara Desjardins. Desjardins then inspected the guard of 100 CF personnel before approaching the podium to address those gathered. “During these past 100 years, the fabric of Esquimalt and that of our military partners have been one and the same. I could not think of a better partner for us to celebrate our centennial year with. Our township is proud of you, our region is proud of you, our province is proud of you, and our nation is proud of you,” she said. Desjardins then read the Freedom of the Township Proclamation, granting the military freedom to march the streets of Esquimalt in full regalia. Capt(N) Baines then addressed those assembled. He spoke of the close relationship Maritime Forces Pacific has with the Township of Esquimalt. “We’ve been through two world wars together, we have seen numerous conflicts, and through all of...

[caption id="attachment_1092" align="alignnone" width="199" caption="Jim Duberry just won gold in the Canadian Master’s Badminton Championships in Ottawa."][/caption]Back in 1965, 33-year-old Sgt (Ret’d) Jim Duberry picked up his first badminton racket and birdie while posted in Newfoundland. It wasn’t long before he was hooked. Forty-seven years later, and now at age 80, he won gold in the Canadian Masters Badminton Championships in Ottawa May 7-12.   “I think the secret of the game is to continue to play as long as you can. I love playing because it’s so social and a great way to exercise cardio,” he says. Competing in the 75-79 age category, Duberry was a tough match for his opponents just days before his 80th birthday. First up he contended with Canada’s first astronaut – 77-year-old Maj (Ret’d) Ken Money, and was victorious with a 2-3 game win. Then he won three games against 77-year-old Japanese Tosh Uyida, advancing to the finals against competitor Jim Carnwath. “I have lost to Jim for the past 15 years. If someone told me I would win against him I wouldn’t have believed it. Jim is a very skilled player,” he says. Duberry considers himself a late starter in the game, but practicing almost 365 days this year made up for it, and he won the game against Carnwath. “Jim has been playing since he was about eight years old. He was surprised when I beat him, and I was surprised to win. He congratulated me.” Each year Duberry embraces the badminton season, travelling to competitions all over, venturing as far as Brisbane, Australia, with birdies in hand. “September to April is badminton season and each year I play in the Victoria Masters, Port Alberni Masters, Vancouver Masters and Ogopogo Masters in Kelowna. He won bronze in the World Senior Games at...

[caption id="attachment_1088" align="alignnone" width="300" caption="Senior military staff were on hand last week to witness the change over of leadership at Maritime Forces Pacific (MARPAC)."][/caption]Amidst grey skies and the rocky outcrop at Duntze Head, with musical accompaniment from the Naden Band and a sail past from submarine HMCS Victoria, the reigns of command for Maritime Forces Pacific were passed from one leader to the next. Friends, family and distinguished guests gathered to bid farewell to RAdm Nigel Greenwood, and welcome RAdm Bill Truelove as he accepted command of the most senior naval position on the West Coast last Monday. Among the assembled dignitaries were representatives from the Esquimalt and Salish First Nations, visiting officers of allied fleets, and the LGov of British Columbia, Steven Point.   During the change of command ceremony, the Guard of Honour offered salutes to the official party, consisting of RAdm Greenwood, RAdm Truelove, and LGov Point, as well as presiding officers VAdm Paul Maddison, Commander of the Royal Canadian Navy, and LGen Walter Semianiw, Commander of Canada Command. During his final address, RAdm Greenwood drew upon the sentiments of truth, duty, and valour. “The truth of it is, I feel like a very lucky guy,” said RAdm Greenwood. “To be here, to have had this experience with the Navy, all the way from cadets, to Royal Roads, to my present position.” To RAdm Truelove he said, “Our careers have intersected at different times. I know you’re going to be warmly welcomed, well respected, and you’re going to have a heap of fun in this position.” For valour, he focused on HMCS Victoria. “It’s such a pleasure to see Victoria sailing out of this harbour, on cue, and that’s how it’s going to be from this day on. In my mind Victoria represents our navy: small, powerful, deployable and potent.” Following his address, those gathered watched as RAdm Greenwood issued his last order, and CPO1 Paul Helston hauled down the Admiral’s distinguishing flag and presented it to...

I am one of the two per cent of people who survive pancreatic cancer. It has a 98 per cent mortality rate.

Teams from HMC Ships Calgary, Winnipeg, Regina, Protecteur, Algonquin and Ottawa hit the pavement in an Amazing Race.

Melting ice will likely open up new maritime routes to Europe for Chinese exporters.

[caption id="attachment_951" align="alignnone" width="300"] Combating piracy and oil theft in Nigeria[/caption] Royal Roads University, the Asia Pacific Center for Security Studies, and Maritime Forces Pacific will be holding the biennial Maritime Security Challenges conference in Victoria, B.C. from Oct. 1-3, 2012. One of the conference panel discussions will focus on security issues in the Gulf of Guinea. This article explores key maritime concerns in this region and discusses some of the political and economic factors that make improving security in the Gulf of Guinea such a challenge. More information on MSC 2012 can be accessed at www.mscconference.com Much has been written about Somali piracy and its threat to the international shipping industry. However, there is also a growing piracy problem on the other side of the African continent, in the Gulf of Guinea. According to the International Maritime Organization, 2011 marked a peak year for pirate activity in the region, with 64 reported attacks, a 28 percent increase from 2010. The waters off Nigeria are particularly risky: Africa’s most populous country and top oil producer is home to a strong network of criminal organizations that have increasingly targeted ships carrying valuable cargo. In coming years, shipping traffic off the coast of Nigeria is projected to increase, as world demand for its oil grows. The risk of hijacking, however, could discourage international shipping vessels from approaching Nigeria’s ports. Improving security in Nigerian waters will not be easy. It will require coordinated action among naval and coast guard fleets to fend off pirate attacks. It will also require taking action against land-based criminal groups, and the government corruption that allows them to thrive. In addition, a long term strategy against piracy and organized crime must include measures to address the extreme poverty and inequality that have driven Nigerians to pursue illicit activities....

[caption id="attachment_947" align="alignnone" width="300" caption="CPO2 Richard Boileau on board HMCS Protecteur Remembrance Day 2011 in San Diego."][/caption]CFB Esquimalt is mourning the loss of a submariner after a recreational diving incident on the Victoria Day long  weekend claimed the life of HMCS Victoria’s coxswain CPO2 Richard Boileau. On May 19, 47-year-old CPO2 Boileau was scuba diving with two friends in the Saanich inlet when he experienced complications underwater that resulted in his death. “As a core member of the command triad and the submarine community, he will be missed both professionally and personally,” said HMCS Victoria’s Commanding Officer, Cdr Christopher Ellis. CPO2 Boileau came to serve in Victoria Nov. 18, 2011, as a last minute replacement on the eve of the submarine’s sailing work ups. “Even though he had been away from subs for a few years he stepped up to the challenge of being the senior sailor. He had such a positive influence on the crew through his mentorship,” says Cdr Ellis. “He was fair and just. He was a man of integrity. With the dynamic manning of Victoria, he was a catalyst in making sure members, many from out of area, got integrated into the team, so they were welcomed and not overcome by the demands that were placed on them. He will be missed.” On Sunday, Cdr Ellis recalled the crew to inform them of the tragedy in person. “It was hard to deliver that message. Because of his key role and because we are such a small unit; his absence will be felt.” Before taking on the role of Victoria’s coxswain, CPO2 Boileau served as the Logistics Coordinator in HMCS Protecteur, and prior to that as a cook in HMC Ships, Vancouver, Regina, and Victoria in 2003. “He was an avid diver and had been for years....

[caption id="attachment_943" align="alignnone" width="300" caption="Coast Salish carver John Marston's work as he poses with it."][/caption]Aboriginal Week was the perfect occasion for Base Commander, Capt(N) Craig Baines to launch an initiative to honour First Nations people, their heritage and their connection to CFB Esquimalt. On May 23 at the Wardroom, he unveiled an Aboriginal display cabinet full of art. Among the spectators were the Chief’s of the Esquimalt and Songhees Nations, the Songhees Nation drummers, spiritual advisors and several First Nations artists and their guests. The unique display, a project managed through Public Works and Government Services Canada, includes the work of Aboriginal artists from various Nations including Esquimalt, Songhees, Cowichan, and Haida. While some pieces have been gifted to the base, the majority are on loan in what will be a rotating display showcasing work of local Aboriginal artists. Coast Salish artist John Marston of Ladysmith brought five pieces to display including sun and moon masks, a canoe box and two bentwood boxes. “When I heard about this display I wanted to be a part of it. I felt it was a good initiative to support,” he said. Marston has been carving since age eight and learned from his artist parents. His sun and moon masks each took five to six weeks of full-time carving to complete. Clarence Dick Jr, an artist from the Songhees Nation, carved a cedar panel of sea creatures he made especially for this base exhibit. “This piece is called The Life Cycle. It shows the whale chasing after the sea lion and the sea lion chasing after the salmon. I’m happy to be a part of this exhibit,” he said. Other pieces include two eagle masks more than 100 years old from the Haida Nation, on loan from Mary-Ann Thomas of Esquimalt Nation; a toggling...

[caption id="attachment_939" align="alignnone" width="300" caption="Larry Gollner displays some of his vivid paintings at his studio in Cobble Hill."][/caption]Seventy-four-year-old Brigadier General (Ret’d) Larry Gollner never imagined people would buy his art, even though he’s an honourary  member of the oldest fine arts club west of the Great Lakes - the Victoria Sketch Club founded in 1909. Over the years more than 30 paintings have left his studio, tucked under the arm of a new owner, destined for display on a solitary wall. “To be quite frank, it is satisfying and motivating when people actually buy your art,” he says. “It’s a compliment and recognition.” The Sketch Club allows only about 40 artists at a time, with noteworthy artists Emily Carr, Samuel McClure and Max Maynard on the register at one time. For the retired soldier, art didn’t become a passion until he borrowed some of his wife Christine’s supplies on a whim nearly 20 years ago. Christine attended the Emily Carr Art and Design Institute, and is a widely recognized artist. Canvas, brushes and paint were only a few strides away in their home. Gollner dabbled in the genre after hours; it was the military that had his full attention.   Retirement and a nomination into the club propelled him to fully explore his talent. “I moved into the true creative side – which to me is abstract painting,” he says.  “I got into abstract painting because I appreciated the amount of planning required. I figured early on I would never be good at painting apples. I don’t have the talent, or the patience to do that. Abstract just suits me better.” He starts by cutting out strips of coloured paper. Next, he makes models followed by producing a small mock up on paper, then on board. “When I am satisfied...

[caption id="attachment_861" align="alignnone" width="300" caption="RAdm Nigel Greenwood officiated a citizenship ceremony at Duntze Head which saw 58 people become Canadian citizens."][/caption]In the bright sunshine at Duntze Head last Thursday the Navy hosted a citizenship ceremony welcoming 58 new Canadians. RAdm Nigel Greenwood served as the guest presiding officer administering the Oath of Citizenship ceremony. Last October the Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism announced that recipients of the Order of Military Merit would be added to the list of people able to administer this ceremony. RAdm Greenwood was admitted to the Order of Military Merit at the Officer level in 2004 and then promoted to Commander of the Order in 2010. A quintet from The Naden Band of Maritime Forces Pacific played as candidates from 22 countries and their families arrived. Under the guidance of Clerk of the Ceremony Monica Ujimoto, RAdm Greenwood administered his role. “I am proud to be here today representing Canada and welcoming you as new citizens,” said RAdm Greenwood. “Your varied origins will contribute to Canada’s great strength. As new Canadians you can serve this country in your own way, and each of your varied origins will contribute to Canada’s great strengths. Together we can build a society which, to many, is considered the best in the world,” said RAdm Greenwood. Representatives from each of the three levels of government welcomed the new Canadians. New Canadian Terence Mitchell of Grenada said, “It is a blessed day to be Canadian. I am extremely proud. I feel fabulous.” Many in the group included families. Nine year old Miles Packham from London England and his parents Richard and Andrea were among the groups of families. “This is a great opportunity. I love Canada and now I am a part of a great country.” All new Canadians were encouraged...

[caption id="attachment_856" align="alignnone" width="300" caption="While on Operation Artemis LS Matthew Briggs and LS Mark Hoyles, hold the slider board to commit the ashes to the sea onboard HMCS Charlottetown during the Battle of The Atlantic and a Committal of Ashes at Sea ceremony in the Gulf of Aden on May 6, 2012."][/caption]On the morning of May 6, over two-thirds of the crew of HMCS Charlottetown gathered on her flight deck to commemorate Battle of the Atlantic Sunday while sailing in the Arabian Sea.   Despite the fact that the day was very hot and humid, almost every member of the ship’s company not on duty volunteered to take part in the event.  All departments and all ranks played a role in the preparation for and execution of the morning’s commemoration.   During the ceremony, respects were paid to six former sailors whose ashes had travelled with Charlottetown from Halifax to the Arabian Sea. Those whose remains were reverently committed to the sea included: AS Robert Gordon Boehk, PO2 Garth Trevor Crawford, LSRP2 Edward Cameron McLean, PO1 Norbert Joseph Steele, Lt(N) Charles Edward Vennall and CPO2 Paul Walker. Following naval tradition, the names of each of the 24 Royal Canadian ships lost during the Battle of the Atlantic were read aloud, followed by the ringing of the ship’s bell.  It is worth noting that a former Charlottetown is included among that number.   There was a palpable sense of peace and reverence amongst those gathered, especially during the moments of silence which solemnly punctuated the ceremony.  However, in those very same moments, below decks, HMCS Charlottetown was alive with activity as Osprey (the codename for her Sea King helicopter) and the operations room continued to search the seas in support of Combined Task Force-150.   While taking time to remember the...