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DAG Connection — From Lunar New Year to Sikh Heritage Month, the coming weeks are filled with opportunities to celebrate diversity, inclusion, and cultural heritage. Mark your calendars and join the conversation. CALENDAR: Lunar New Year (Date Changes Each Year) 29 Jan to 2 Feb Black History Month February Have a Heart Day  14-Feb Heritage Week 17 -21 Feb Pink Shirt Day 26-Feb Ramadan 28 Feb - 29 Mar Irish Heritage Month March International Women’s Day 08-Mar Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination 21-Mar International Day of Transgender Visibility 31-Mar Sikh Heritage Month April International Day of Pink (Second Wednesday of April) 09-Apr

DAG Connection — As a seasoned member of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) with over two decades of experience, I have dedicated my career to leadership, service, and the pursuit of equity in the military environment. My background as an immigrant from Jamaica, [...]

DAG Connection — Adopted by Parliament in 2008, Black History Month celebrates the rich history, achievements, and contributions of Black Canadians. The commemoration dates back to 1926 and provides an opportunity to reflect on the vital role Black Canadians have played in shaping this nation’s identity. For the Defence Team, Black History Month is a chance to recognize and celebrate the historical and ongoing contributions of Black Defence Team members. The role of Black people and communities in Canada’s history has often been overlooked, including the presence of African-descended Loyalists who settled in the Maritimes after the American Revolution and the sacrifices made by soldiers of African descent during wars like the War of 1812. This month serves as a reminder to acknowledge the Black Canadians who helped shape a diverse, compassionate, and inclusive Canada, and to learn more about the experiences that have shaped our collective history and future. Below are some stories and experiences written by Black Canadians: FICTION: The Sleeping Car Porter by Suzette Mayr In Another Place, Not Here by Dionne Brand *The Book of Negroes by Lawrence Hill Butter Honey Pig Bread by Francesca Ekwuyasi NON-FICTION: Invisible Boy by Harrison Mooney Willie by Willie O’Ree, with Michael McKinley Saga Boy by Antonio Michael Downing *Policing Black Lives: State Violence in Canada from Slavery to the Present by Robyn Maynard KIDS: *Beautiful You, Beautiful Me by Tasha Spillett-Sumner (ages 4-8) The Stone Thrower by Jael Ealey Richardson (ages 5-9) *Viola Desmond Won’t Be Budged! – Jody Warner (ages 6-10) Swim Team by Johnnie Christmas (ages 8-12) YA: Blood Scion by Deborah Falaye Boys and Girls Screaming by Kern Carter *The Marrow Thieves by Cherie Dimaline Charming as a Verb by Ben Philippe NOTE: * is published in both French and English

All photos: Patrol Craft Training Unit vessels performing a formation sail of all 8 training craft during an exercise in the Juan De Fuca straits off of Vancouver Island on Jan. 29. Photos: Sailor First Class Brendan McLoughlin, MARPAC Imaging services. SLt Simon Gonsalves, MARPAC Public Affairs  —  In a Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) first, all eight Orca-class training vessels have successfully sailed together. On the morning of Jan. 29, the eight vessels embarked together from CFB Esquimalt’s Z-Jetty to sail across the harbour in formation. Planned and executed under the title Photographic Orca Deployment Exercise (PODEX) 2025, this was a unique moment in RCN’s recent history. Operated by the Patrol Craft Training Unit (PCTU), these vessels, often simply referred to as Orcas, are designed as a stepping stone to larger, more complicated warships. Able to operate effectively with a small crew complement, these specialized ships provide invaluable practical at-sea training for RCN sailors across a wide range of experiences and expertise. At any given time, it is common practice for one or more Orcas to be unavailable for use while undergoing scheduled maintenance and repairs. However, a rare opportunity arose at PCTU—for a relatively short window, all Orcas were scheduled to be ready and available to sail. Those in charge of the unit decided to take full advantage of this unique opening, planning and executing the first ever PODEX in fine detail.  When asked about the unique opportunity to showcase his unit, Lieutenant-Commander (LCdr) Eric Lashinski, Commanding Officer of PCTU, stated that “it’s just never worked out that we’ve had all of the ships out and available at the same time…to actually get out of the trainer side and come to sea is an amazing opportunity for everybody, it’s genuinely so important.” The fortuitous alignment of ship readiness cycles also...

Have you experienced racial discrimination or racial harassment in the Canadian Armed Forces? A class action settlement may affect you. Please read this notice carefully. The Federal Court has authorized this notice. This is not a solicitation from a lawyer or a lawsuit against you. While not admitting liability, the Government of Canada has agreed to settlement of a class action (“Class Action”) for current and former members of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) who experienced racial discrimination and/or racial harassment in connection with their military service. The Federal Court has approved this settlement. WHO IS INCLUDED? The settlement covers members and former members of the CAF who experienced racial discrimination and/or racial harassment in connection with their military service at any time from April 17, 1985 (the "Class Members"). To be eligible for a payment you must be a member of the Class. The Class is defined as: All persons who are or have been enrolled as CAF Members at any time from April 17, 1985, and for any duration up to and including the Approval Date (January 10, 2025), and who assert that they have been subjected to Racial Discrimination and/or Racial Harassment. The terms of the settlement are binding on all Class Members, except those who opt out of the Class Action by a specified date. If you wish to opt out of the Class Action, you must do so by completing an Opt Out Form and returning it to the Claims Administrator by no later than April 10, 2025. WHAT DOES THE SETTLEMENT PROVIDE? The settlement provides: payment for Class Members who experienced racial discrimination and/or racial harassment connected with their military service; the option to participate in a restorative engagement process for Class Members to communicate their experiences of racial discrimination and/or racial harassment with...

The DAG Connection — On December 15, 2023, Minister of Labour Seamus O’Regan Jr. announced that federally regulated industries and workplaces—including airports, banks, and ferries—are obligated to provide menstrual products in each washroom, regardless of bathroom signage. If the washroom is not feasible, the employer must provide the menstrual pads / tampons in an accessible location. He has been quoted as saying: “We’d never ask people to bring their own toilet paper to work. So why do we do that with menstrual products?” This initiative not only promotes menstrual equality and fosters healthy, inclusive workplaces, but it also helps relieve the financial burden of purchasing these essential items. Research has shown more than 80% of those who menstruate believe products are too expensive and one-fifth of menstruators in Canada struggle to afford necessary products. Federal buildings are not alone in defying period poverty. Provinces like British Columbia, Manitoba, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia and Ontario provide menstrual products in schools while New Brunswick provides them in libraries. Menstrual products are and should be counted as basic needs. This program is meant to improve equity as well as create more inclusive workplaces.

Ted Noakes MA CLU® CFP® Financial Security Advisor, Life Insurance  —  As the prescribed medical release date of Apr. 1, approaches, many members of the Canadian Armed Forces in Victoria and Esquimalt are preparing for this significant transition. Whether you are looking forward to the release or feeling uncertain about it, it is important to know what to expect and how to plan effectively. SISIP is part of your out-routine. Here is what you can expect with your SISIP appointments and the sorts of things that SISIP will help with to plan your post-release financial path and to make your experience as useful as possible: Initial Appointment: Reviewing Your Coverage In your first appointment, typically with one of our insurance agents, we will review your current coverage. This includes: your supplementary death benefit any optional insurance you have with SISIP any other life insurance you are holding We also conduct a needs analysis to determine if you have too much or too little life insurance. Additionally, we will explain what critical illness insurance is and how it can protect your portfolio in case of illness. As you have 60 days (about two months) to transfer your coverage, we will ensure you have the necessary forms to complete this process. Second Appointment: Financial Planning Many members are unaware of their financial options, especially when it comes to their pension. Our financial planners are uniquely qualified to help you understand whether taking a lump sum or the pension makes more sense for you. We will provide a detailed analysis to show you the budgetary impact of each option, helping you make an informed decision. Setting Up an Appointment With Apr. 1 rapidly approaching, it is helpful to set up an appointment as soon as possible. And be aware, we are still not in...

[caption id="attachment_36993" align="aligncenter" width="597"] Commander Dan Saunders. Photos: Sailor 3rd Class Owen Davis, MARPAC Imaging Services, Esquimalt, BC.[/caption] Jazmin Holdway with contributions by Paul Dagonese Lookout Newspaper  —  The Royal Canadian Logistics Service (RCLS) marked its 57th anniversary with a celebration on Feb. 3, noting decades of dedication, innovation, and unwavering support to Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) operations. The anniversary event, held at the Chief and Petty Officers’ Rainbow Room at CFB Esquimalt, brought together logisticians from across the Formation to commemorate the Service’s history and honour the individuals who play a critical role in sustaining Canada’s Defence capabilities. As part of the celebration, Formation Logistics Awards were presented by Rear-Admiral Robinson, recognizing the exceptional contributions from junior non-commissioned members (NCMs), senior NCMs, junior officers, and Department of National Defence (DND) civilians. Guests were treated to refreshments, a cake adorned with the RCLS crest, and an opportunity to connect with fellow logisticians from all corners of the Formation. Commander (Cdr) Dan Saunders, Formation Logistics Officer at MARPAC HQ, spoke about the significance of the anniversary. “Logistics has been critical to the success of every CAF operation, and this celebration is about recognizing our shared history and the dedicated work of our teams,” Cdr Saunders said. “We’re spread out across many units, so it’s rare for us to come together and celebrate our achievements.” A Rich History of Service The roots of the Logistics Branch date back to Canada’s British military heritage, with each branch of the Armed Forces managing its logistics independently. However, in 1968, the unification of the Canadian Armed Forces led to the creation of the Logistics Branch, consolidating these various functions. In 2018, marking the 50th anniversary of its formation, the branch received its Royal designation, becoming the Royal Canadian Logistics Service. Today, the RCLS is part of...

Canada.ca  —  About the Medal The King Charles III Coronation Medal (French: médaille du couronnement du roi Charles III) is a commemorative medal created to mark the coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla, which took place on May 6, 2023. The UK issued more than 400,000 coronation medals, awarded to individuals who contributed to the coronation, recipients of the UK's highest honours, and select British military personnel, frontline emergency workers, and public prison service staff with five years of service. The British coronation medal was also gifted to a select number of Australians, Canadians and New Zealanders. Canada issued 30,000 coronation medals, awarding them to select members of the Canadian Armed Forces and Public Service, as well as individuals who made significant contributions to the country or achieved accomplishments that brought credit to Canada. The British and Canadian medals are both made of nickel silver and have identical ribbons. However, the two medal designs differ. The British medal features effigies of both the King and Queen, while the Canadian medal only features the King. On the reverse, the British medal has laurels, the royal cypher, and the Tudor Crown, whereas the Canadian medal displays the royal cypher with the Canadian Royal Crown over a sunburst design.   Sergeant Cindy Hawchuk Sergeant Hawchuk is awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal for being a trailblazer for vocalists in the Music Branch for over two decades. She has been pivotal in developing contemporary music capabilities in the CAF and represents the CAF at major events around the world, increasing the community outreach and engagement.   Petty Officer 2nd Class Bob Fearnley Petty Officer Fearnley is awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal for volunteering 16-20 hours per week with Christ Church Cathedral and represented the CAF several times at the Anglican...

The DAG Connection — The Invictus Games are coming to Vancouver and Whistler this winter. The idea was first conceived by Prince Harry in 2014 as a celebration of the courage and resilience demonstrated by those recovering from injuries obtained during military service.  The competitive events of the games embody the healing power of sport and community. Through activities like wheelchair rugby and basketball, seated volleyball, and indoor rowing, the Games empower athletes to reclaim their confidence, develop social connections, and regain a sense of belonging. The upcoming games in Vancouver and Whistler will be the first to incorporate adaptive winter sports such as alpine skiing and snowboarding, nordic skiing and biathlon, skeleton, and wheelchair curling. Team Canada will be among the twenty plus nations competing in this year’s events. Comprised of active and retired service personnel from across the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF), each member of Team Canada has sacrificed a piece of their personal wellbeing in the pursuit of our nation’s security. We will have the opportunity to watch as they once again demonstrate their resilience and resolve, pursuing recovery through the unconquerable spirit of the events. By supporting Team Canada at the games, Canadians can honour these athletes sacrifices and inspire their continued journey toward recovery. Invictus Games 2025 serves as a powerful reminder of the strength of our military family, and the resilience of the athletes who inspire us all.     Invictus Out of the night that covers me,  Black as the Pit from pole to pole, I thank whatever gods may be For my unconquerable soul. In the fell clutch of circumstanceI have not winced nor cried aloud. Under the bludgeonings of chance My head is bloody, but unbowed. Beyond this place of wrath and tears Looms but the Horror of the shade,And yet the menace of the years Finds,...

[caption id="attachment_36941" align="aligncenter" width="597"] Vice-Admiral Angus Topshee welcomes guests to the B-Jetty Opening Ceremony on Feb. 5.[/caption] Jazmin Holdway with contributions by Leah Pokocky and S1 Robin Kruger Lookout Newspaper  —  In a significant moment for Canada’s Pacific Naval Fleet, the new B-Jetty at HMC Dockyard at CFB Esquimalt was officially opened on Feb. 5, ushering in a new era of capability for the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN). The ribbon-cutting ceremony was attended by dignitaries including the Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, MP, President of the King’s Privy Council for Canada, Minister of Emergency Preparedness, and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada, as well as Vice-Admiral (VAdm) Angus Topshee, Commander of the RCN. The opening ceremony featured a ceremonial welcome with the National Anthem performed by the Naden Band. Mr. Paul Schauerte, Acting Director General of Infrastructure and Environment, and VAdm Topshee both delivered addresses acknowledging the immense scale of the project and its positive impact on the Navy’s operations and environmental sustainability. Remarks were kept short in consideration for the freezing temperatures of the morning. [caption id="attachment_36943" align="aligncenter" width="400"] The Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, MP, addresses the gathering.[/caption] “You don’t just see a ship, you see a massive capability,” said Minister Sajjan while pointing to HMCS Max Bernays, docked alongside the opening ceremony. He discussed the work being done at Maritime Forces Pacific (MARPAC) and the overall capabilities of the RCN, its personnel and supporting infrastructure. The B-Jetty, which replaces the original A- and B-Jetties built during the Second World War, was designed to withstand the challenges posed by climate change and natural disasters, such as tsunamis. Construction on the project began in December 2019, with the achieved initial operational capability date set for November 2024. The 270-meter long and 26-meter-wide marine structure is built on pipe...

[caption id="attachment_36900" align="aligncenter" width="597"] Photo provided[/caption] HMCS Ottawa  —  During HMCS Ottawa's recent outreach activity in Republic of Korea in December, Ottawa volunteers delivered hand-knitted hats to the Saebit Christian Children’s Home. These hats were given to the crew by Ms. Karen Eykelenboom (mother of Corporal Andrew “Boomer” Eykelenboom). Thanks to her and other volunteers from Boomer’s Legacy, deployed members get a chance to "do good" overseas during their deployment. Boomer’s Legacy is named after Corporal Andrew “Boomer” Eykelenboom, a dedicated soldier and a Canadian Armed Forces medic killed by a suicide bomber on Aug. 11, 2006. Andrew was committed to saving lives and helping the Afghan people realize freedom. His death was the catalyst to creating Boomer’s Legacy to help men and women in uniform make a positive difference in the lives of others. Andrew’s humanitarian spirit lives on through Boomer’s Legacy, committed to "Helping Troops Help Others”. For more information on the Boomer’s Legacy foundation, visit boomerslegacy.ca  

Congratulations and Bravo Zulu to HMCS Malahat’s three new graduates of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) Sentinel Program, Acting Sub-Lieutenant Bonner, Acting Sub-Lieutenant Chan, and Master Sailor Good. All three members of the Ship’s Company were presented with their qualification certificates by Lieutenant Commander Anne Gardam, Malahat’s Commanding Officer, [...]

HMCS Discovery  —  HMCS Discovery’s first training day of 2025 was a full and successful one, made complete with a visit from Commodore Patrick Montgomery, Commander, Naval Reserve and Chief Petty Officer 1st Class Robert Campbell, Formation Chief Petty Officer, Naval Reserve. Photos provided    

[caption id="attachment_36872" align="aligncenter" width="597"] Runners of the 2024 Wounded Warrior Run BC begin their 8-day journey running across Vancouver Island.[/caption] Paul Dagonese, Lookout Staff  —  The 12th annual Wounded Warrior Run (WWRun) B.C. kicks off on Feb. 23 featuring an 800-kilometer run with participation by members of CFB Esquimalt’s Defence community. Hosted by Wounded Warriors Canada (WWC), the event will once again see eight runners trek the length of Vancouver Island in eight days. These runners, along with WWC support volunteers, will stop in 28 communities along the way to promote awareness and raise funds for trauma-exposed professionals. Warrant Officer (WO) Dan Bodden, Training Support Coordinator at the Regional Cadet Support Unit, is taking part in the WWRun this year, but this isn't his first time getting involved with WWC. “I was one of the people who started it,” he said. Back in 2013, he and a neighbour felt there was a challenge they needed to face—addressing the impact of trauma on professionals, particularly Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members returning from the Afghanistan War. They assembled a team of runners and volunteers and launched the very first Wounded Warrior Run. “We thought as military members and first responders, we should be leaders in this,” said WO Bodden. “We felt we needed to figure out a way to not only engage the public but directly engage those communities affected. And the best way to do that was to lead by example.” Bodden is proud of WWRun’s success in B.C. and is optimistic about its impact on mental health awareness. “There’s still work to do yet, and that doesn’t happen in a vacuum,” he said. “We’re going to keep doing this—promoting awareness, being available, and remaining non-judgmental toward people who need to talk.” That original run included four CAF members. As the event...

Early to Mid Career Financial Foundations, Monday, February 10 @ 1030  Financial Planning 101 Starting to invest early to prepare for the future. Understanding different investment accounts, investment products, etc., and how to use them efficiently based on your goals Tax-efficient Investing How to put more money in your pocket. How to plan to retire from the military comfortably Financial Counselling Learning to budget, understanding your paycheque, paying down debt, building emergency fund and financial literary. Access to financial assistance through Support Our Troops. Life Insurance Learn why life insurance is important and the types of insurance SISIP offers.  How do life changes such as marriage, divorce and kids affect your needs for insurance and what changes do you need to make when these things happen. Microsoft Teams MeetingMeeting ID: 264 784 934 327Passcode: gk3dV2b2   Mid to Late Career Late Career-Paving the Road for Release and/or Retirement, Tuesday, February 11 @ 1030 Financial Planning How your CAF pension, government pensions and investments come together to build your retirement picture. Financial Counselling Improving to budget, paying down debt, how to plan for major purchases and how to adjust budget for life changes. How to ensure you are on track to retire debt-free. Life insurance and Legacy Creation  How does releasing from the CAF effect your needs for life insurance.  What types of insurance does SISIP offer to CAF veterans and what needs to be done with your existing SISIP policies when you release. Learn how to minimize tax with proper life insurance structure. Microsoft Teams MeetingMeeting ID: 261 986 719 159Passcode: ug27C2QZ

[caption id="attachment_36858" align="aligncenter" width="597"] The Air Task Force Lithuania Chaplain addresses members of the Canadian Armed Forces, Lithuanian Air Force, and Portuguese Air Force Detachment during the dedication ceremony in Šiauliai, Lithuania. Photo: Air Task Force - OP Reassurance[/caption] Padre (Capt) Anthony Divinagracia, CFB Esquimalt  —  CFB Esquimalt Chaplains can support you in these 10 ways: First, Ministry of Presence. We do this when we visit you, members at your workstations or join your unit’s activities and events. This is our way of being present and available to you. This presence and engagement can be an effective way for us to better support the Chain of Command and the members in need. Second, Pastoral Care. We provide pastoral care by attending to the emotional, moral, spiritual and religious needs of the members and your families regardless of your faith tradition or religious affiliation or whether you have one. Third, Confidential Pastoral Counselling - We provide counselling services to members, ensuring that you can trust us in whatever you discuss with us without fear of reprimand or reprisal. We can also make recommendations to the Commanding Officer (CO) to support the member and put in place conditions to help the member get through a difficult time. Yes, we will advocate for you, but at the end of the day, the CO has the final decision, and we will respect and support CO’s decision. Fourth, Crisis Intervention – This is one of the reasons why we have a Chaplain on duty, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. When a member is in crisis, we can take the call, identify the course of action and guide the member towards appropriate resources. Fifth, Advise the CO. We act as advisors to the CO pertaining to the religious, spiritual and ethical well-being of the...

HMCS Ottawa is currently taking part in multinational exercise La Perouse 25, centered around a French Carrier Strike Group. The exercise involves nine partner nations and takes place in the coasts and straits between the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean: Malacca, Sunda, and Lombok. During the exercise, commanding officers from the different ships had the opportunity to meet face-to-face onboard French aircraft carrier Charles De Gaulle while French sailors visited and learned more about the Royal Canadian Navy.  Photos:  Sailor 3rd Class Jacob Saunders  

Shannon Childs, PFP®, Personal Financial Planner, SISIP Financial  —  January always seems to be a buzz with talk of Registered Retirement Savings Plans (RRSPs) and income tax; you hear about it on the news, at the dinner table and at work and of course, at your local SISIP Financial office, it is no different! Make your finances part of the conversation throughout the year. As financial planners, we are always extolling the tax advantages of RRSPs, but often hear “No thanks, I have a great pension plan, I don’t need an RRSP”. While it is true that the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) does offer an excellent Pension Plan it is also true that no two financial situations are alike. Even though your friend or co-worker may have the same rank, monthly allotment and years of service as you, your financial needs and goals may vary widely. RRSPs can add significant value to your financial plan during your working years, in retirement and within your Estate plan. Whenever you contribute to an RRSP it reduces your taxable income today, which means you pay less tax now and you are putting money away to grow, tax sheltered, for the future. You can save even more money by strategically planning your RRSP withdrawals. Let’s look at some situations that people may not always consider when they think of an RRSP. Is the cost of buying a home to high in your current province? If you plan to buy a home at a future posting or in retirement, consider using the RRSP homebuyers program (HBP). The HBP is not just for first-time homeowners. You can utilize the HBP more than once provided you and/or your spouse have not owned a home in the four years prior to the home purchase. You can “borrow” up to...

[caption id="attachment_36827" align="aligncenter" width="597"] Representatives from HMCS Ottawa, the Town Council of Onagawa, and the Kanda family, surround the memorial to Lieutenant Robert Hampton Gray VC, DSC, following the ceremony on Nov. 26 in Onagawa, Japan. Photo: Sailor 3rd Class Jacob Saunders.[/caption] Defence Stories, Canada.ca  —  Members of His Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Ottawa, currently deployed on Operation Horizon, participated in a special ceremony in Onagawa, Japan, on Nov. 26, honouring a Canadian war hero. Lieutenant (Lt) Robert Hampton Gray, a Royal Canadian Naval Volunteer Reserve Pilot, received the Victoria Cross as a result of his actions and sacrifice in the skies over Onagawa Bay during the Second World War. This particular monument is very special: it is the only monument to a foreign military person ever built in Japan. The main local supporter for the project was Mr. Yoshio Kanda, a former communications officer in the Onagawa Defense Force. Taking into consideration the climate between our nations at the time of Lt Gray’s action, Mr. Kanda chose to raise a memorial in 1989 to honour the sacrifice of all parties and to create a symbol of peace between nations. Mr. Kanda was instrumental in convincing the local population to change their existing narrative on the tragic end to the conflict and make Lt Gray’s sacrifice in Onagawa Bay a symbol of enduring peace. “It is not enemy soldiers we hate, but the war itself,” Mr. Kanda stated. This is not Mr. Kanda’s first involvement with memorials as he was also among those who had helped build a memorial to commemorate the area’s Japanese victims which was completed in 1966. The Lt Gray monument was relocated from its original site following the 2011 earthquake and tsunami that wreaked havoc across the bay. Local volunteers from the Onagawa Lions Club found the...

Sub-Lieutenant (SLt) SeeEun “Rachel” Kim is presented with the Merritt Chisholm Sword for Esprit de Corps and Perseverance by Lieutenant-Commander (retired) Gerald Pash on behalf of the Naval Officers Association of Vancouver Island with Reviewing Officer, Commander Vincent Pellerin, Commanding Officer of HMCS Winnipeg. The Sword, with a Naval Association [...]

CFB Esquimalt’s annual Sailor's Appreciation Dinner brought together the wisdom of veterans and the enthusiasm of junior members in a heartwarming ceremony filled with tradition. Witness the symbolic swapping of ranks and the honoring of those who keep our base running strong.

Lt(N) R. Davies, Uncrewed System Officer, ANCU  —  From October to November 2024, Advanced Naval Capabilities Unit (ANCU) took part in Bold Quest 24, a significant multinational event hosted by the United States Joint Staff in Jacksonville, North Carolina. This prestigious event brought together approximately 2,000 personnel from 17 different nations, fostering collaboration and enhancing capabilities among allied forces. The ANCU team had three primary missions during the exercise: to integrate into the intelligence cycle of the exercise, participate in a medical demonstration and practical field test of modern medical networking technologies, and support Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance operations. To achieve these goals, ANCU deployed a team comprised of an Intelligence officer, a medic and Uncrewed Systems operators flying the CU-175 Puma – a miniature fixed wing Uncrewed Aircraft system used both on land and at sea. One of the standout achievements of the ANCU team during Bold Quest 24 was their support for the first successful execution of the Intelligence Requirement Management and Collection Management (IRM&CM) process using solely Canadian assets through Federated Mission Network (FMN). ANCU sailors played a critical role in providing Full Motion Video (FMV) to the FMN and the Mission Partner Environment. This FMV was subsequently transmitted to the Canadian Forces Maritime Warfare Centre and Trinity in Halifax, marking a significant advancement in the speed and efficiency of intelligence collection and processing. Leading the intelligence efforts, Lieutenant(N) Jeong served as the Naval Intelligence lead for Bold Quest 24, heading a team focused on the practical use of Common Intelligence Picture tools and implementing the IRM&CM cycle. Meanwhile, ANCU’s medic, Master Corporal (MCpl) Patterson, integrated with the Royal Navy and the United States Marine Corps to evaluate the United States Air Force Research Laboratories Battlefield Digital Data Collection Kit (BATDOK), to address medical needs and gather vital...

His Majesty Canadian Ship (HMCS) Protecteur during its Naming Ceremony at Seaspan Shipyards, Vancouver on Dec. 13. Photos: Sailor 3rd Class Jordan Schilstra, MARPAC Imaging Services   Teri McKinnon, HMCS Protecteur’s Sponsor, speaks during Naming Ceremony at Seaspan Shipyards.   The Right Honourable Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada.   Vice-Admiral Angus Topshee, Commander of the Royal Canadian Navy.        

January Pacific Region Surgeon Honoured for Saving Teammate’s Life RCN Honoured in Hockey Day in Canada Festivities CFAD Rocky Point Sends Ammunition Donation to Ukraine A Heartfelt Farewell to 103-year old Major (ret’d) Murray Edwards First Woman Appointed as Chief Boatswain’s Mate   [caption id="attachment_36751" align="aligncenter" width="597"] Members of Victoria's Wong Sheung Kung Fu Club perform a Lion Dance, Feb. 14, at the Canadian Submarine Force Headquarters in Dockyard. Photo: Peter Mallett/Lookout[/caption]   February Combat Divers Return to Metchosin Waters with Exercise Roguish Buoy Trading Places: RCN Ships Complete Hull Swap RCN Sailor Traverses the Antarctic Waters with the Chilean Navy ‘Globetrotting’ Benefits Base Athletes Muggins, the Historic Pooch Remembered and Restored   [caption id="attachment_36754" align="aligncenter" width="597"] Staff Sergeant Daryl Baswick of the Victoria Police Department waves during the Day 2 Woss to Sayward leg of the Wounded Warrior Run BC. Photo: John Penner Photography[/caption]   March Bayleigh Rules as Base Commander for a Day International Day of Forests Highlighting Canadian Rangers’ Role in Protecting B.C.’s Wilderness New Boats for FDU(P) FMFCB Secures New Radar System Dedicated Naval Communicator Named Sailor of the Year   [caption id="attachment_36748" align="aligncenter" width="597"] Teddy, a three-year-old Akita, greets a visitor at the Y-Jetty security gate. Teddy is a therapy dog who helps Commissionaire Bob Cosman. Photo: Bob Cosman[/caption]   April Community Commemorates HMCS Esquimalt Tragedy Langford Pays Tribute to Heroes of Vimy Ridge HMCS Max Bernays Returns Home Y-Jetty Welcomes its Fluffiest Greeter, Teddy Comox Air Show Returns for RCAF Centennial RCN Recognizes Transgender Resilience   [caption id="attachment_36755" align="aligncenter" width="597"] Captain(N) Kevin Whiteside, Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Esquimalt Base Commander, and Chief Petty Officer 1st Class Sue Frisby, CFB Esquimalt Base Chief, march in the parade at Buccaneer Days on May 11. Photo: Master Corporal Nathan Spence, MARPAC Imaging[/caption]   May A Royal Encounter:...

Paul Dagonese, Staff Writer  —  When Master Sailor (Retired) (MS (Ret’d)) Elysia Stevens sat down to write Smelling Daisies, she never imagined it would grow into a creative partnership with her husband, Chief Petty Officer 1st Class (CPO1) Mark Stevens. What began as a fun project evolved into a novel that’s as much about love, humour, and resilience as it is about the military experience. Drawing from their shared backgrounds in the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) and their 18-year marriage, the couple combined Elysia’s knack for storytelling with Mark’s classical literary sensibilities to create a novel that defies genre labels. “It can’t be put into a cookie cutter,” Mark said. “You couldn’t say it’s a rom-com, or an adventure, or a drama, or a historical novel. It’s a little of everything because Elysia has the rom-com background, and mine is classic literature. So, when you smash the two together, this is what you get.” Smelling Daisies tells the story of Daisy, a modern-day female soldier and veteran of the CAF, who finds herself thrust into medieval Scotland after a mysterious time-travel twist. Daisy’s training and survival instincts are tested in a world far removed from her own, where gender roles and medieval dangers collide with her modern identity. The couple’s collaborative writing process mirrored the playful banter between Daisy and her romantic interests in the book. “We were pinging off each other,” Mark said. “She’d write an idea and then pass it to me, and I’d write an idea and pass it to her, getting a male and female perspective.” He explained how this process of exchange between them really comes out in the characters. Elysia added, “You see, I’m always funny, but my husband is hilarious. Where I was like—’Ooh, I think he’ll like this’, he’s then like, ‘Okay, I see where...

In a five-set nailbiter against Base Administration (BADM), Calgary continues their intramural winning streak, remaining undefeated for the 24/25 season. Congratulations to HMCS Calgary, BADM and all other unit teams who participated in this month’s intramural competition. Intramurals will be returning to CFB Esquimalt with 3-on-3 basketball Jan. 27 –31.

SLt Simon Gonsalves and A/SLt Josh Grinstead, MARPAC Public Affairs — On an annual basis, the Navy League of Canada’s Exceptional Sailors Programme recognizes outstanding sailors across the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) formations, who’ve gone above and beyond professional expectations. During Navy and Coast Guard Appreciation Day, those awarded travel to Ottawa [...]

Paul Dagones, Lookout Staff — Every day people in British Columbia lose their lives to an overdose. National Addictions Awareness Week (NAAW), held annually during the third week of November, confronts this crisis by building awareness and promoting practical solutions. Led by the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction (CCSA), NAAW workshops [...]

[caption id="attachment_36670" align="aligncenter" width="597"] CFB Esquimalt’s first Holiday Shop & Sip hosted at the Chief & POs’ mess on Dec. 1.[/caption] Lookout Staff  —  The first annual Holiday Shop & Sip event hosted by the Chief & POs’ Mess and Lookout Newspaper debuted on Sunday, Dec. 1. Bringing together the extended Defence community and local artisans, the holiday market was a dashing success. Showcasing talents including woodwork, baking, preserving, crafting, leatherwork, art, photography, soap-making, stained glass, printing, jewellery-making, thrifting, and so much more, the 66 vendor booths offered holiday gift ideas to more than 300 attendees that afternoon. Entrance to the event was by donation of a non-perishable food item or cash donation to support Rainbow Kitchen, a community kitchen and hub for food security programming in Esquimalt. A big thank you goes out to all attendees, vendors and organizers as $800 and a large car full of donations was raised at the event. As attendees sipped on beverages provided by the onsite bar, others indulged in the free popcorn and hot chocolate courtesy of CANEX. Attendees were also entered into a draw to win over 30 door prizes, donated generously by the event vendors. The holiday spirit is in full swing at CFB Esquimalt, and planning is already in the works for the next Shop & Sip event. [caption id="attachment_36669" align="aligncenter" width="597"] The reason for the season. Food donations for Rainbow Kitchen fill the trunk at the event. [/caption]