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[caption id="attachment_36457" align="aligncenter" width="597"] Victoria Colonist report of Oct. 17, 1939 listing Midshipman Peter Piddington as missing. Photo: Paul Seguna[/caption] LCdr (Ret'd) Paul Seguna, CD, CFB Esquimalt Naval & Military Museum  —  The date of the Thanksgiving holiday this year held a special significance in linking the histories of two Vancouver Island families. On Oct. 14, 1939, just over a month after the outbreak of the Second World War, the battleship HMS Royal Oak suddenly sank while at anchor in Scapa Flow – a British fleet anchorage located in the Orkney Islands off the northern tip of Scotland. The ship was the victim of torpedoes fired by the German submarine U-47 in the early morning hours after having penetrated the protected anchorage defences. The battleship capsized within minutes with 835 of the Ship’s Company of 1,234 perishing. Last year, the existence of artifacts from the sinking belonging to the family of James Atwood, a retired Royal Canadian Air Force officer living in Victoria, emerged during a dinner conversation. The items were a naval officer’s sword with scabbard and sword belt given to James’ grandfather in the U.K. after the war by a friend who had been a professional diver and had recovered the items from the ship’s wreckage field. James received the sword and associated items from his grandfather in the 1980s while visiting in England and brought them back to Canada as family heirlooms. After doing some research, James decided the Scapa Flow Museum in Lyness, Scotland should be engaged. The museum subsequently expressed an interest in accepting the artifacts as part of the HMS Royal Oak collection there. Hence, the sword and accoutrements were destined for return to the Orkney’s where they once were the personal possession of an unidentified officer serving in HMS Royal Oak. During the research into the provenance of the sword, another local link arose – Peter Grosvenor Piddington, Midshipman RN, was listed as a casualty and the son of Arthur Grosvenor and Helen Mary...

[caption id="attachment_36449" align="aligncenter" width="597"] Group photo of HMCS Regina’s Naval Electronic Sensor Operators and supervising Officer, taken next to one of the ship’s Harpoon missile launchers off the coast of California.[/caption] SLt Simon Gonsalves, MARPAC Public Affairs  —  Under the bright Southern Californian sky, sailors onboard His Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Regina participated in Joint Littoral Targeting Exercise 2024 (JoLTEX 24). During this training event, the crew had the rare opportunity to launch two advanced Block II Harpoon missiles soaring over the horizon and far beyond. This live-fire training exercise, conducted in partnership with Canadian Joint Operations Command, was held on Oct. 23 at the United States Navy’s Point Mugu Sea Range, located off the Californian coast near San Diego. This year’s JoLTEX aimed to develop and test targeting processes to enable Royal Canadian Navy ships to strike targets effectively on or near land. The Harpoon missile system, which has a maximum range of 124 kilometres, is the anti-surface missile carried by Canadian frigates, which can quickly engage a variety of surface targets with a high degree of precision. The lessons learned from Regina’s fire-support experience can now be leveraged by other Canadian warships operating in proximity to land. According to Commander Jeremy Samson, the Canadian Patrol Frigate’s Commanding Officer, “HMCS Regina’s precise delivery of surface-to-surface kinetic effects during JoLTEX 24 demonstrates the crew’s commitment to combat readiness and their professional excellence.” When asked about the ship’s performance during the exercise, Commander Samson stated that he “couldn’t be prouder to be part of Regina’s outstanding team and what they’ve accomplished.” However, not everything went according to plan initially—the first Harpoon missile fired by HMCS Regina during JoLTEX 2024 was aborted by American range staff shortly after launch. As safety is paramount during any military live-fire exercise, constant communication is required between the missile and the range facility. After launch, if connection is lost – even temporarily, and for any reason – the range will terminate the missile in flight. HMCS Regina’s...

Come shop and sip, enjoy seasonal treats, and enter to win draw prizes, all in our beautiful waterfront venue at CFB Esquimalt Chief & POs' Mess, Sunday December 1, 1-5 pm! Complete your shopping list with our mix of businesses, arts and crafts and thrifting! Click here to check out our lengthy list of products and vendors.

  [caption id="attachment_36443" align="aligncenter" width="597"] Campbell River resident Mike Bean, a Master Warrant Officer in The Canadian Scottish Regiment (Princess Mary’s) receives a second clasp to his Canadian Forces’ Decoration from Commanding Officer Lieutenant-Colonel Slade Lerch. The award of the clasp recognizes 32 years of service in the Army Reserve of the Canadian Armed Forces.Photos: Captain Cameron Park, The Canadian Scottish Regiment (Princess Mary’s)[/caption] Captain Cameron Park, Public Affairs Office, The Canadian Scottish Regiment (Princess Mary’s)  —  During a recent ceremony in Nanaimo, B.C. Army Reservist Master Warrant Officer (MWO) Mike Bean of The Canadian Scottish Regiment (Princess Mary’s) was promoted to his current rank by Commanding Officer Lieutenant Colonel (LCol) Slade Lerch. The applause for MWO Bean had barely faded when he was called forward again to receive another significant award –  the second clasp for his Canadian Forces’ Decoration (CD), signifying 32 years of service in the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF). The Canadian Scottish Regiment (Princess Mary’s) is Vancouver Island’s own infantry regiment and a unit in the Army Reserve (ARes) of the CAF. The ARes is a part-time component of the CAF. Like MWO Bean, members of the ARes learn soldier skills in a variety of trades while training one night a week and one weekend a month. Many members of the ARes work full-time for the CAF during the summer months on training courses. Soldiers in the ARes gain many important skills and experiences while also maintaining full time civilian careers.   [caption id="attachment_36444" align="aligncenter" width="597"] Master Warrant Officer Mike Bean (left) is promoted by Lieutenant-Colonel Slade Lerch, Commanding Officer of The Canadian Scottish Regiment (Princess Mary’s). The Canadian Scottish Regiment is Vancouver Island’s own infantry regiment in the Army Reserves of the Canadian Armed Forces.[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_36436" align="aligncenter" width="597"] Petty Officer 2nd Class Paul Paquette inspecting the UXO site on Ross Peak after the successful detonation of the UXO. Photo: Petty Officer 1st Class Burrell[/caption] A/ SLt Patrick Delisle, MARPAC PA  —  As the helicopter climbs above 2,000 metres, two Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Operators gaze out across the rugged peaks of the Rocky Mountains, the serene beauty in stark contrast with their dangerous mission ahead. For safety, one EOD Tech holds the C4 plastic explosives in his pack, while the other carries the detonators. Soon they will land and begin the precarious task of locating and disposing of the ordnance, ensuring the safety of this majestic environment for future generations. Flying in a helicopter loaded with explosives over a high mountain pass might sound like a scene out of a James Bond movie, but for the Fleet Diving Unit (Pacific)’s (FDU[P]) Maritime Explosive Ordnance Disposal (MEOD) cell, it’s just another Tuesday. But why are highly specialized Navy Divers tasked with blowing up projectiles on the side of a mountain? The answer lies in FDU(P)’s unique responsibilities. This elite team is tasked with disposing military ordnance. Their expertise ensures that even the most challenging and austere locations – whether the bottom of the sea, or the jagged ridges of Glacier National Park – are made safe from the dangers of leftover military explosives. [caption id="attachment_36434" align="aligncenter" width="597"] Image from near the UXO location on Cross Peak. Photo: Petty Officer 1st Class Burrell[/caption] This most recent tasking had them travelling to Revelstoke, B.C. to dispose of two pieces of unexploded ordnance (UXO) from a prior Operation (Op) Palaci found in remote locations at Crossover and Ross Peak, far off the path for all but the most intrepid hiker. Op Palaci is a joint operation with the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) and Parks Canada Agency (PCA) in Rogers Pass, B.C., with the goal to reduce the risk of naturally occurring avalanches. This is done using precise artillery strikes...

Kateryna Bandura, Lookout Contributor  —  A new book in Canadian military history illuminates the extraordinary life of a Canadian aviation pioneer whose daring exploits and contributions to early flight have largely faded from public memory. Tom Douglas’ Whispering Duke Schiller: Canadian Aviation Pioneer resurrects the remarkable story of Clarence Alvin ‘Duke’ Schiller, a man whose aerial feats rivaled those of his more famous contemporaries. Douglas, a veteran journalist and author with a deep passion for Canada’s military heritage, discovered this compelling tale through a personal connection: Duke Schiller was his great-uncle. “I grew up hearing stories about his heroics and escapades but never saw anything about him in print,” Douglas says. Inspired by family lore and armed with a treasure trove of personal documents, Douglas embarked on a journey to uncover the full scope of Schiller’s adventures. The book chronicles Schiller’s life from his family’s roots as Hessian settlers in Ontario to his death-defying exploits as a pilot in the 1920s and 30s. Along this illustrious career, Schiller would pick up nicknames, including ‘Whispering Duke’ and ‘Foghorn Duke’ ironic references to the loud, barking voice he had developed due to his father being extremely hard of hearing. One of the most gripping episodes recounts Schiller’s pivotal role in rescuing the crew of The Bremen, the first aircraft to successfully complete a transatlantic flight from east to west. When the plane crashed on remote Greenly Island off Labrador, it was Schiller’s skill and courage that saved the stranded aviators from certain death in the harsh winter conditions. “But those who held the pessimistic view that the fate of the three European fliers would turn out to be only death delayed hadn’t taken into account the aeronautical know-how and steel nerves of one Clarence Alvin ‘Whispering Duke’ Schiller,” Douglas says. Douglas’ research draws on family archives and extensive newspaper records. The story tells of a man who repeatedly risked his life in the name of progress and human compassion. “I was surprised to...

[caption id="attachment_36411" align="aligncenter" width="597"] Health Or Addiction, Two Opposite Ways. Top view of feet with chalk drawing on the asphalt road[/caption]   PSP Health Promotion  —  Forging Connections This year, the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction (CCSA) National Addictions Awareness Week is from Nov. 24 – 30. The theme for this year’s campaign is “Forging Connections”, emphasizing the power of collaboration in fostering a supportive and understanding environment. Substance use affects individuals, families, and workplaces in profound ways, but by building meaningful connections among peers, leadership, and support services, we can create a strong network that encourages prevention, early intervention, and recovery. We can strengthen these connections by engaging in open dialogue, increasing awareness of available resources, and promoting a culture of compassion. When working together – whether through peer support, leadership mentorship, or partnerships with health services – we can reduce stigma, improve access to care, and support one another in facing the challenges of substance use. Let’s take this opportunity to forge stronger bonds, ensuring everyone has the tools and community they need to thrive. The Addictions-Free Living Working Group of the MARPAC Health & Wellness Strategy is working to drive change here at MARPAC by creating a culture that encourages healthy lifestyle choices and reduces the risk of problems with alcohol, cannabis, gambling, gaming and other potentially harmful substances and behaviours. The working group continues to work towards creating a culture of health and wellness at MARPAC, and encourages members of the Defence Team to visit the CCSA National Addictions Awareness Week website (www.ccsa.ca/national-addictions-awareness-week) for more information, and to seek help and support if you or someone you know is struggling with an addiction or substance abuse.   MYTHS vs FACTS FROM BASE MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES ADDICTIONS CLINICIANS   Myth #1: “Alcohol and cannabis are...

[caption id="attachment_36406" align="aligncenter" width="597"] The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Ottawa, ON. Photo: Master Warrant Officer (Ret’d) Floyd Powder[/caption] Fardous Hosseiny, President and CEO, The Atlas Institute for Veterans and Families  —  As Remembrance Day approaches, I find myself pondering a new question this year: 'In remembrance, who might be the forgotten?’ Here in Canada, we know that more than 118,000 brave soldiers did not return home to their loved ones throughout our short history as a nation. Canada’s eight Books of Remembrance, which record the names of every Canadian who died in service to our country, are currently displayed at Parliament Hill’s Visitor Welcome Centre in the Room of Remembrance. Veterans Affairs Canada and the Commonwealth War Graves Commission ensures the maintenance of more than 300,000 markers and grave sites of Canadian Armed Forces members here and around the world, including those whose deaths were not directly attributed to service. It is particularly meaningful to know this exists to maintain those that might have fallen into disrepair or where no living relative remain to continue to provide for the upkeep. Whether they lie marked in Flanders, Bény-sur-Mer, Beechwood, or unmarked throughout the world, these are places where valour lies. Their lives and their service must be honoured. Beyond these numbers though there is growing recognition of a number not accounted for — those lost to psychological wounds sustained as a result of service. As conversations become more open and honest about mental health and how this has been a real impact of service, when we lose a former serviceperson (or currently serving member) to suicide, the question many grapple with now is: How do we officially honour those lives? At the Atlas Institute for Veterans and Families, the feedback we hear from our community is that mental health injuries are...

SLt Simon Gonsalves, MARPAC Public Affairs — In 2022, Master Sailor (MS) Jed Garcia was posted to Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Esquimalt Base Information Services as a Naval Communications Services Support Technician, ensuring communications to Canada’s Pacific Fleet remain secure at sea. However, MS Garcia was recently offered a high-profile

As the cooler weather approaches and the rainy days inspire quiet afternoons indoors getting lost in a book, Greater Victoria Public Library’s Margie Thompson has a book list of military-related titles to enjoy this season. Her recommendations are: Nonfiction And No Birds Sang by Farley Mowat A Most Ungentlemanly Way of War: the SOE and the Canadian Connection by Bernd Horn Battle of the Atlantic: Gauntlet to Victory and Dam Busters: Canadian Airmen and the Secret Raid Against Nazi Germany by Ted Barris Failed to Return : Canada’s Bomber Command Sacrifice in the Second World War by Keith Ogilvie Hunt the Bismarck : the Pursuit of Germany’s Most Famous Battleship by Angus Konstam Masters of the Air : America’s Bomber Boys who Fought the Air War Against Nazi Germany by Donald Miller One Day in August: the Untold Story Behind Canada’s Tragedy at Dieppe by David O’ Keefe Rescue at Los Baños: the Most Daring Prison Camp Raid of World War II by Bruce Henderson Rogue heroes : a History of the SAS, Britain’s Secret Special Forces Unit that Sabotaged the Nazis and Changed the Nature of War by Ben Macintyre The Battle of Arnhem: the Deadliest Airborne Operation of World War II by Anthony Beevor The Corvette Navy: True Stories from Canada’s Atlantic War by James Lamb The Ghost Ships of Archangel: the Arctic Voyage that Defied the Nazis by William Geroux The Longest Day: A Bridge too Far; Other World War II Writings by Cornelius Ryan Unsinkable: Five Men and the Indomitable Run of the USS Plunkett by James Sullivan When the Sea Came Alive: an Oral History of D-Day by Garrett Graff Fiction Catch-22 Joseph Heller Eye of the Needle by Ken Follett The Commodore by Peter Deutermann The English Patient by Michael Ondaatje The Huntress by...

[caption id="attachment_36374" align="aligncenter" width="597"] Allan White and members of HMCS Unicorn following the Knight of the Legion of Honour ceremony in Prince Albert, Sask. on Aug. 12. Photos provided.[/caption]   SLt Gokhan Nas, HMCS Unicorn—  At 101 years old, Allan White, a humble yet remarkable man from Saskatchewan, was presented with France’s highest distinction, the Knight of the Legion of Honour, in recognition of his role in the liberation of France during the Second World War while serving in the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN). On Aug. 12, surrounded by friends, family, fellow veterans, and members of His Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Unicorn, a solemn ceremony at Mont St. Joseph Home in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan, honoured White’s dedication and courage—a man whose service story continues to inspire. Born in rural Saskatchewan, Allan White wasn’t always destined for naval service. During the war, White made his way to Saskatoon to enlist in the Air Force. However, a last-minute decision would change his course. “I thought, ‘I don’t want to be a prisoner of war,’” White remembered. The idea of being shot down and captured was unsettling. Similarly, he had no interest in the army trenches, muddy and wet from endless days of rain. The Navy, however, held a certain appeal: “As long as your ship is afloat, you’ve got a dry bed—not a bed, but a hammock.” And so, White found himself joining the Royal Canadian Naval Volunteer Reserve (RCNVR). [caption id="attachment_36375" align="aligncenter" width="250"] During the Second World War, Allan White joined the Royal Canadian Naval Volunteer Reserve (RCNVR) at HMCS Unicorn in Saskatoon, Sask.[/caption] White served on several naval ships, but his most notable assignment was aboard the HMS Guysborough. As part of the British 14th Minesweeping Flotilla, the Guysborough played a crucial role in clearing the way for the D-Day invasion. On the fateful nights of June 5 and 6, 1944, White and his comrades swept Channel 2 of the American Sector, ensuring the invasion force’s safe passage. The minesweeping operations...

[caption id="attachment_36369" align="aligncenter" width="597"] The Byrnell family while being awarded the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Award.[/caption] Kate Bandura, Lookout Contributor  —  Wes Byrnell’s remarkable career spans both military service and pioneering work in sports medicine, leaving an indelible mark on the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) and the field of athletic therapy. In 1976, Byrnell was awarded the prestigious Order of Military Merit, one of the highest honours in the Canadian military. This recognition underscored his significant contributions to the CAF and his dedication to service. A substantial portion of Byrnell’s military career was spent at Royal Roads Military College, where he trained and mentored young cadets, preparing them for future leadership roles. His impact on the institution was so profound that upon his retirement, he was granted the rare honour of taking the salute on the parade grounds – a privilege typically reserved for commanding officers. “It was usually the commanding officer who would do this, but they made an exception for Dad,” his daughter Carrie Kohan recalls emotionally. “It was a beautiful goodbye from all the cadets and graduates. It still makes me cry that they honoured Dad that way.” Byrnell’s commitment to serving his fellow military personnel didn’t end with his retirement from Royal Roads. He established a sports clinic at CFB Esquimalt’s Naden, where he volunteered extensively, treating personnel from all military branches. This clinic became a testament to his ongoing dedication to the welfare of servicemen and women. At the Naden clinic, Byrnell’s innovative spirit shone through. He introduced groundbreaking hydrotherapy techniques and invented several tools that are still used by athletes today, including the tilt board and the Velcro sock holder, made for soccer players which was used in the 1976 Olympics. His contributions to sports medicine earned him a place in the Victoria and...

[caption id="attachment_36364" align="aligncenter" width="597"] S1 Jacob Barrett is presented with the Sailor of the Quarter coin by Commander Sam Patchell, Deputy Commander of CANFLTPAC and CPO1 David Bisal, Fleet Chief on Sept. 16.[/caption] Paul Dagonese, Lookout Writer  —  The Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) has named Sailor 1st Class (S1) Jacob Barrett as its Q3 Sailor of the Quarter (SOQ) for the months of July-September. S1 Barrett was presented his award aboard his serving ship, HMCS Max Bernays and presented the coveted SOQ coin from both Commander Sam Patchell, Deputy Commander of Canadian Fleet Pacific and Chief Petty Officer 1st Class David Bisal, Fleet Chief. Chief Petty Officer 2nd Class (CPO2) Jeffrey Maynard nominated Barrett for the award. When asked how he knew Barrett qualified, Maynard said simply, “by popular demand”. “I’m new to Max Bernays, but I quickly figured out how well the whole ship thinks of him as the ‘go-to guy’,” said CPO2 Maynard. S1 Barrett has quite the military resume. He joined RCN as a Marine Engineer in 2015 and completed his Marine Engineer QL3 course shortly after joining. He was then posted to HMCS Ottawa and later HMCS Vancouver. S1 Barrett continued to grow as he earned his Basic Machining Operator Certificate (BMOC) and later posted to HMCS Regina and later, HMCS Yellowknife.  He earned his Marine Engineer QL5 from 2018 to 2020 and was posted to several Kingston-class vessels, where he earned his Engineer Watch Keeper (EWK) Certificate. S1 Barrett helped in the RCN’s coastal transfer of Max Bernays from Halifax to Victoria and has participated in multiple RIMPAC exercises over the years. Now serving on Max Bernays as its EWK, Barrett is surpassing his previous accolades—and his crewmates are taking notice. They’ve seen him consistently dedicating extra volunteer-hours, taking time to train his peers and subordinates,...

[caption id="attachment_36358" align="aligncenter" width="597"] Hong Kong Veterans Commemorative Association volunteer Derrill Henderson points to the “HK” marker being added to gravestones across Canada, including that of John Levitt, a member of 1st Battalion, The Royal Rifles of Canada Canadian Active Service Force (CASF); in Trenholm, Que.[/caption] A/SLt Taylor Rhuland  —  As Remembrance Day approaches, Canadians prepare to honour those who served, including the often-overlooked heroes of the Second World War Battle of Hong Kong. The journey of ‘C’ Force began Oct. 27, 1941, when troops boarded the AWATEA and the PRINCE ROBERT, traveling through Canada to Hong Kong with brief stops in Honolulu, Hawaii and Manila, the capital of the Philippines. They arrived Nov. 16 but, unfortunately, essential equipment meant for ‘C’ Force was rerouted to Manila and never reached them. In December, around 2,000 Canadian troops engaged in fierce combat against the Imperial Japanese Army. ‘C’ Force included soldiers from the 1st Battalion Royal Rifles of Canada. After 17 days of intense fighting, many Canadians were taken as a prisoner of war (POW) or killed. Derrill Henderson is a passionate advocate for Hong Kong veterans, driven by his family’s military history. His father, Corporal Stewart Henderson, was a POW during the Korean War and rarely spoke of his experiences, motivating Derrill to honour the sacrifices of veterans. Since the mid-1990s, Derrill has played a crucial role in transitioning leadership from the Hong Kong Veterans Association (HKVA) to the Hong Kong Veterans Commemorative Association (HKVCA), empowering veterans’ children to take charge. This shift not only continues to recognize the bravery of these individuals, but also brings fresh perspectives to the association’s mission. Through Derrill’s efforts, many veterans’ gravestones have been located and marked, ensuring their stories endure on the HKVCA website. He has compiled detailed accounts of each veteran’s experiences, including recorded messages from POW camps, preserving their voices for future generations. One veteran who particularly inspired Derrill is Philip Doddridge from New Richmond, Que. Doddridge joined the Army in...

[caption id="attachment_36353" align="aligncenter" width="597"] Mr. Jay Hammond receives a set of wings created using the aluminum of his uncle's recovered Halifax bomber during a Commendation Presentation at 443 Maritime Helicopter Squadron on Oct. 18. Photo: Sailor 3rd Class Jordan Schilstra, MARPAC Imaging Services[/caption] Paul Dagonese, Lookout Writer  —  As the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) marks its Centennial year, two exceptional Canadians were celebrated for their significant contributions to Canada’s military history. In a ceremony on Oct. 18 at 443 Maritime Helicopter Squadron in North Saanich, Jay Hammond and Maureen Thom were recognized for their dedication over the past 13 years to find the site where their uncle’s plane went down in the Second World War and exhume the wreckage from seven metres below ground. On May 12, 1944, Halifax Bomber LW682 carrying seven RCAF and one Royal Navy crew members was shot down by a Luftwaffe Messerschmitt Bf 110. The aircraft and its crew perished in the crash. Their remains were submerged in a Belgian marsh for decades. Fifty-three years later, the remains of Hammond’s uncle, Pilot Officer (P/O) Wilbur Boyd “Wib” Bentz, a Canadian bomber pilot, along with two of its crewmembers, Sergeant (Sgt.) J.W. Summerhayes and Sgt. F. Roach, were discovered at their Halifax Bomber’s crash site near Geraardsbergen, Belgium. Lieutenant-Colonel Matt Dukowski, Commanding Officer of 443 Squadron, opened the ceremony by presenting Hammond with a unique tribute from the RCAF, a set of wings (rare for a civilian to receive) crafted from the aluminum of his uncle’s Halifax Bomber. In 2021, the RCAF began using material from the recovered bomber in the wings awarded to all active flight-qualified members. The metal serves as a link between today’s RCAF and the fallen aviators who laid its foundation. Since then, every wing bears the bomber’s tail number inscribed on...

A/SLt Josh Grinstead, PAO, MARPAC  —  As Remembrance Day approaches, Canadians reflect on the sacrifices made by those who have served. For Lieutenant (Navy) (Lt(N)) Dhinsa, a Royal Canadian naval officer of Sikh background from Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Esquimalt, this means working on the short film Promises. Directed by Steven Purewal, the movie aims to shed light on the significant contributions of Punjabi forces to the Allied cause during both World Wars—a history often overlooked in mainstream narratives. As a Sikh sailor with a deep family history of military service, Lt(N) Dhinsa’s participation in Promises underscores the importance of remembrance and the need to honour the sacrifices of all who fought for freedom. Promises highlights that many of the soldiers who fought against Axis tyranny during key battles throughout both world wars were Punjabi men from India, who fought valiantly as citizens of the British Empire. The film specifically focuses on the important battles of Neuve Chapple in 1915 and Monte Cassino in 1944, which were largely won by soldiers from the British Raj. Lt(N) Dhinsa expresses a profound sense of responsibility in bringing these stories to light: “The history has been dead for so long; if we if we don’t establish it now, it will be lost.” The director, Steven Purewal, emphasizes the film’s mission to unveil the marginalized histories of Punjabi contributions during the World Wars. “It’s really important for the next generation to see that we’ve come together at important points in our history to accomplish great things,” he states. Purewal wants to create a film that resonates not only with those who know this history, but also with future generations who may be unaware of the sacrifices made by these soldiers in the pursuit of Allied victory. “If we had not been united at that time,...

A Free Coding Program for Military Teens brought to you by Google Canada! Are you a teen in the military community eager to dive into the world of coding and music? BreakBeatCode is here to help you unleash your inner DJ and coder, offering a unique, free opportunity to learn how to create your very own beats—all by writing code! In this exciting CFMWS Recreation program, you’ll learn the basics of Python, the world's most popular programming language, and use it to build beats that reflect your personal style. With BreakBeatCode, you won’t just be sitting in front of a screen; you’ll be hands-on with a digital audio workstation, a powerful library of sound samples, and a Python interpreter that allows you to bring your musical ideas to life. Python is a versatile language used in tech careers across data science, machine learning, and more, meaning the skills you gain here could serve as a launching pad for your future.   Why Join BreakBeatCode? 1. Hands-On Experience with Real-World Tech  You'll use the same tools and techniques that professionals in music and tech rely on, getting a feel for the tech industry’s fastest-growing field.   This program 2. Learn Valuable Coding Skills  Coding is more than just writing instructions for computers—it’s a way to make your ideas a reality! Python is a highly sought-after skill across industries, and what better way to start learning than through the art of music production? 3. Create Your Own Beats  At BreakBeatCode, your creativity is front and center. Learn to mix, remix, and customize sounds to develop a beat that’s totally your own.  You will have the chance to win amazing prizes from CANEX! 4. Connect with Other Military Teens  Join a community of young military family members, all excited to explore and create...

[caption id="attachment_36334" align="aligncenter" width="597"] Captain(N) Kevin Whiteside, CFB Esquimalt Base Commander lays a wreath at Memorial Park in Esquimalt in honour of those who died during the HMCS Kootenay explosion, accompanied by CPO1 (ret'd) Al Darraugh, who was onboard that fateful day.[/caption] Paul Dagonese, Lookout Writer  —  Members of the Royal Canadian Navy gathered at Memorial Park in Esquimalt on Oct. 23 for a solemn ceremony honouring the nine sailors lost in the 1969 tragedy aboard HMCS Kootenay. The wreath-laying event, marking Canada’s largest peacetime naval loss, drew veterans, sailors, and officials in an act of remembrance. Leading the ceremony was retired Chief Petty Officer 1st Class (CPO1 (ret’d)) Al Darragh who has championed this West Coast tribute, preserving the memory of those who served. “It is through acts of remembrance such as those led by CPO1 (ret’d) Al Darragh, our former Base Chief, who was instrumental in organizing the first of these ceremonies, that the memory of HMCS Kootenay will continue to shape our Navy today,” said Captain Navy (Capt(N)) Kevin Whiteside, CFB Esquimalt Base Commander in his address, thanking Darragh for his efforts. CPO1 (ret’d) Darragh served aboard the Kootenay from 1987 to 1992. As an engineer, he vividly recalls the Kootenay’s harrowing “full power” trial 320 kilometers off the southwest coast of England, during which the ship caught fire and exploded while testing new equipment post-maintenance. The crew bravely battled the flames, ultimately saving the ship and steering it back to England. CPO1 (ret’d) Darragh also took part in a 25th-anniversary re-enactment of the explosion, a tribute that held profound significance. He was on watch as the I/C of the boiler room during the re-enactment at the exact time and location of the blast that struck two and a half decades earlier. “It was somewhat eerie being the...

We take pause to reflect on the courage, valour and sacrifice made by those who fought for this country, contributing to peace and stability around the world. This Remembrance Day I find myself struck by the advance of time and the diminishing numbers of those veterans still with us. Two names come to mind. Last April we lost Peter Godwin Chance, a veteran of the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN), at the age of 103. The history of Mr. Chance in many ways mirrors the RCN’s coming of age in the early part of the 20th century – becoming a navigator at the start of the Second World War; experiencing the grim toll of convoy duty; and helping mount coastal operations in support of a fledgling United Nations during the Korean War. Yet, during his memorial service, it was not his naval-combat exploits that his family and friends dwelled on but his life and service in peacetime founded on his mantra of being kind above all else. This was a lesson that Peter Chance took from years of war at sea – a generosity of spirit that he shared until his final hours. That dedication to humanity was also embodied by John Hillman, who passed away last July at 105. Hillman, a veteran of the Royal Air Force, spent the last birthdays of his life walking hundreds of laps around the courtyard of his home in Oak Bay. In doing so, he raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for charity and, along the way, inspired people of all ages across Vancouver Island and beyond. In times of both war and peace veterans, like Peter Chance and John Hillman, exemplify what it means to give of oneself to better the lives of many. On November 11th, I will reflect on their service...

[caption id="attachment_36324" align="aligncenter" width="597"] Rear-Admiral C. Robinson, Commander Maritime Forces Pacific salutes from Duntze Head. Photo by: Master Corporal Andre Maillet, MARPAC Imaging Services[/caption] As we approach Remembrance Day, I invite all Canadians to pause and reflect on the sacrifices made by our brave service members in uniform. This day reminds us of the courage and dedication of those who have served and continue to serve our country, ensuring our freedoms and values are upheld. Each year, on November 11th, we gather to honour the memory of those who fought in conflicts around the world. From the trenches of World War I to the on-going missions of today, our service members have faced unimaginable challenges. Their sacrifices—whether in battle or on the home front—form the backbone of our national identity. This year, as we remember the fallen, let us also acknowledge the families who have stood beside them. The loved ones of our service members have endured their own hardships, showing remarkable strength while their family members were away. We owe them our gratitude as well. Their sacrifices are often overshadowed, yet they are vital to the stories we honour today. Remembrance Day is not only about looking back; it also calls us to action today. We must strive to show courage, integrity, and service in our daily lives. In doing so, we honour those who have made the ultimate sacrifice and ensure that their legacy lives on in our communities. As we wear our poppies, let us take a moment to reflect on the freedoms we enjoy—freedoms that were hard-won and must be protected. It is a day to remember the sacrifices of the past while recommitting ourselves to peace and unity in the future. In these times of uncertainty, let us come together as a nation to uphold...

[caption id="attachment_36304" align="aligncenter" width="597"] Minister of Veterans Affairs Canada and Associate Minister of National Defence Ginette Petitpas Taylor, left, and memory Anchor co-founder Ryan Mullens use the company’s interactive app during D-Day 80 services at the Bretteville-sur-Laize Canadian War Cemetery in Normandy, France. Photo: Veterans Affairs Canada[/caption] Officer Cadet Laura Lascelle  —  As much as the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) has embraced its future during this year’s centennial celebrations, using an augmented reality application, digital exhibitions, virtual reality cockpit experiences and flight simulators to showcase the organization’s rich history; so, too, has the remembrance of our fallen soldiers benefitted from advancing technology. A Canadian veteran-founded start-up software company, Memory Anchor, recently partnered with the RCAF Foundation to provide walking tours for the Toronto Union Station’s RCAF Centennial Banners project. Memory Anchor aims to continue to change the way the world remembers its veterans. Memory Anchor started from an idea in 2017, when co-founder Ryan Mullens visited France and Holland for the 100th anniversary of the Battle of Vimy Ridge. Mullens, who owns a set of flutes carved from the wood of Vimy oaks, played “Amazing Grace” at several Canadian memorial sites he visited. “I was with a World War II vet - his name was Willie McGregor, and it was his second time visiting his brother, John McGregor. He had asked me to play ‘Amazing Grace’ for him and his brother,” says Mullens. “It was just a really beautiful experience playing that and, as I’m finishing up, I was talking to Willie about his brother, looking over Groesbeek Canadian War Cemetery - there’s 3,000 Canadians buried there; and, thinking of some of the guys we lost in Afghanistan…. You know, there’s so much more to those individuals than just a name or a headstone. “That’s where it really hit me: we have to really do something different in order to really connect people to the stories of who these people were.” Memory Anchor has now commemorated over 200,000 soldiers,...

Commissionaires Canada  —  Call it coincidence, or call it fate, but Scott Peddle (Chief Petty Officer 2nd Class, Retired) was most certainly in the right place at the right time.   The Backstory In November 2023, Commissionaires sponsored the Ottawa Memorial Project led by the Canadian Fallen Heroes Foundation. The initiative is dedicated to preserving the memory of Canada’s fallen military personnel. Metal art memorials (wall plaques featuring photos and an inscription) were designed to pay homage to the men and women who selflessly sacrificed their dreams for the future. In doing so, they helped secure the freedom Canadians enjoy to pursue our own aspirations. At the heart of the project is a focus on providing a place of honour for them in the community they once called home. Over 500 communities have taken part in the project over the past 20 years and Commissionaires was honoured to step forward as a sponsor for the campaign in Ottawa.   Present Day Circle back to July 2024. As a thank you for our sponsorship of the project and event, organizer Mike Dalton mailed a plaque featuring a Fallen Hero to one of our office locations. Scott Peddle, Ottawa Division’s dedicated Headquarters Driver, was dispatched to collect the package and deliver it to our Director of Communications and Marketing. When our director received the plaque, she opened it and showed Scott. It was at that moment when Scott recognized the name and photo of Richard John Matts Askwith.   Scott Shared His Story During his time in the military, as part of getting promoted to Petty Officer 1st Class, Scott needed to take and complete a Senior Leadership course. One of his assignments required him to select a topic and write a report. Scott was a Navy man, but he always held a special place for the RCAF and chose to write about No. 418 (City of Edmonton) Squadron Piyautailili (Inuktitut for “Defend even unto death”). In particular, when completing his research...

[caption id="attachment_36289" align="aligncenter" width="597"] Left: Ralph Hodgson. Photos: War Amps CanadaRight: Rachel Quilty, a graduate of The War Amps Child Amputee (CHAMP) Program, pays tribute to First World War amputee veteran Ralph Hodgson at Ralph Hodgson Memorial Park in Port Hope, Ontario.[/caption] War Amps  —  Ralph Hodgson (1895-1948) lived by the motto inscribed on his tombstone: “It’s not what you have lost that counts but what you have.” These words defined his life’s work, as he dedicated himself to ensuring that his fellow war amputee veterans could thrive despite their injuries. Hodgson, a law student when the First World War began, quickly enlisted with Toronto’s 24th Battalion. In April 1917, he was wounded during the Battle of Vimy Ridge, resulting in the amputation of his right leg below the knee. Hodgson became a founding member of The War Amps, an organization established over a century ago by amputee veterans of the First World War. Their mission was to unite, support and advocate for the rights of amputee veterans. These First World War veterans played a pivotal role in welcoming and mentoring a new generation of amputees returning from the Second World War, helping them adapt and sharing their hard-earned wisdom. Hodgson was perhaps best remembered for greeting hospital ships as they returned with injured soldiers from the Second World War. His presence offered encouragement to these young men, helping them come to terms with their amputations and motivating them to move forward. Cliff Chadderton (1919-2013), a Second World War veteran who lost part of his right leg in Belgium in 1944, vividly recalled Hodgson’s unforgettable impact. “Our joy at being home was mingled with a bit of apprehension,” said Chadderton. “Then a strange and wonderful thing happened. Into the ward bounced Ralph Hodgson. Swinging between a thumb and a forefinger was a miniature artificial leg. Not only did Ralph walk, spin and dance, but he finished up by jumping off a waist-high table.” As The War Amps first Dominion Placement...

This resource provides information and guidance to Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members and their families on recognizing and addressing economic abuse. Exploring the topic can be highly sensitive and may evoke a range of emotions in some individuals. If you need support, assistance is available to you 24/7 through the Family Information Line. (English and French, free, confidential) Canada: 1-800-866-4546 International: 00-800-771-17722 Email: FIL-LIF@cfmws.com   Exploring economic abuse Economic abuse is when someone uses money and resources to control another person. This can happen in families or couples, where one person might stop another from having their own money, from making decisions about spending, or getting a job. They might take away their credit cards, make them ask for money, or keep track of every dollar they spend. This kind of control can make the other person feel trapped. Economic abuse is often a hidden form of family violence that is difficult to identify because it occurs in the private domain, including between partners or spouses. Many people may not know how common economic abuse is, what it looks like, or the different ways it can happen. For many people, talking about economic abuse can feel taboo, making it even harder to seek help. Even after a relationship ends, some individuals may continue to face economic abuse from their ex-partner in various ways. It is important to know that there are supports available to you and that you don’t have to face this alone.   How do economic abuse and financial abuse differ? Financial abuse is often thought of as a form of economic abuse. Financial abuse is when someone controls another person’s money and financial resources, like taking their money, using their credit cards without permission, or stopping them from having their own bank account. Economic abuse is broader and includes...

Paul Dagonese, Staff Writer, Lookout Newspaper  —  At noon sharp on Oct. 19, the Bay Street Armoury’s ceiling and walls skirled loud and bright to Highland bagpipes and beats of their drums. From up high in the mezzanine and down below, those attending stopped, watched, and listened as the Pipe Major marched the Pipes and Drums Regiment up and down the Armoury floor. This scene kicked off the first ever Bay Street Music Project (BSMP) opening with the Canadian Scottish Regiment Pipes and Drums, led by Pipe Major Roger McGuire. McGuire is not only the Regiments’ Pipe Major, but he’s also the Chairman of the Victoria Military Music Festival Society (VMMFS), the host of the BSMP. As Chairman, McGuire was one of the chief architects for envisioning the festival’s initiative. “This event is designed to entice young people, to get them exposed to music and the variety of musical instruments that are out there, particularly the ones that are involved in military bands, both brass and reed bands and pipes and drums,” he said. McGuire, now 66, recounted how music enticed him early in life. At five-years-old, he watched the Changing of the Guard Ceremony on Parliament Hill in Ottawa. “I used to watch the pipe band of the Canadian Guards, and one day I just told my mother, ‘I’m going to do that. I’m going to be a piper’.” But things have changed since McGuire’s generation. Musicians in Victoria are increasingly worried, noting that fewer young people today are showing interest in learning music and picking up instruments. This has created a pressing issue that military and civilian musicians can no longer ignore: uncertainty about whether a new generation will emerge to keep their long-standing, historically significant bands alive. But McGuire and likeminded musicians in the community believe they’ve found an answer. Make music experiential. Get the ceiling and walls skirling again with music so young people take notice and get interested. And the Royal Canadian College of Organists (RCCO),...

Paul Dagonese, Rédacteur en chef, journal Lookout  —  Le 19 octobre à midi pile, le plafond et les murs du Manège militaire de la rue Bay ont vibré au son des cornemuses des Highlands et des tambours. Du haut de la mezzanine jusqu'en bas, les participants se sont arrêtés, ont regardé et écouté le Pipe Major faire défiler le régiment de cornemuses et de tambours sur le sol du manège. Cette scène a donné le coup d'envoi du tout premier Bay Street Music Project (BSMP), avec le Canadian Scottish Regiment Pipes and Drums, dirigé par le Pipe Major Roger McGuire. McGuire n'est pas seulement le cornemuseur-major du régiment, mais aussi le président de la Victoria Military Music Festival Society (VMMFS), l'hôte du BSMP. En tant que président, McGuire a été l'un des principaux architectes de l'initiative du festival. "Cet événement est conçu pour attirer les jeunes, les exposer à la musique et à la variété des instruments de musique qui existent, en particulier ceux qui sont utilisés dans les fanfares militaires, les fanfares de cuivres et d'anches, les cornemuses et les tambours", a-t-il déclaré. McGuire, aujourd'hui âgé de 66 ans, a raconté comment la musique l'a attiré très tôt dans sa vie. À l'âge de cinq ans, il a assisté à la cérémonie de la relève de la garde sur la colline du Parlement à Ottawa. J'avais l'habitude de regarder le corps de cornemuses de la Garde canadienne et, un jour, j'ai dit à ma mère : "Je vais faire ça, je vais devenir cornemuseur". Je vais devenir joueur de cornemuse". Mais les choses ont changé depuis la génération de McGuire. Les musiciens de Victoria sont de plus en plus inquiets, car ils constatent que moins de jeunes s'intéressent aujourd'hui à l'apprentissage de la musique et à la pratique d'un instrument....

T.J. Burnett, SISIP Financial Advisor Comox, BC  —  What you need to know In a significant move to support first-time homebuyers, the government has recently announced changes to the Home Buyers’ Plan (HBP). This plan, designed to make homeownership more accessible, now allows individuals to withdraw up to $60,000 from their Registered Retirement Savings Plans (RRSPs), a substantial increase from the previous $35,000 limit. This enhanced limit provides prospective homebuyers with a greater financial cushion to cover down payments and associated costs, potentially easing the journey towards owning a home. Additionally, another crucial change has been made regarding the repayment period. Previously, individuals had to start repaying their RRSP withdrawals within two years of purchasing their home. This timeframe has now been extended to five years, offering more breathing room for new homeowners to stabilize their finances and adapt to the responsibilities of homeownership without the immediate pressure of repayment. This extension is particularly beneficial in the current economic climate, where financial stability can be unpredictable. These changes are expected to make a significant impact on the housing market, especially for first-time buyers who often struggle with accumulating a sufficient down payment. The increased withdrawal limit allows for more substantial initial investments, which can also lead to better mortgage rates and terms. Furthermore, the extended repayment period provides a more manageable timeline for individuals to rebuild their RRSP savings without sacrificing their financial health. For members of the Canadian military and their families, these changes present an excellent opportunity to reconsider their homeownership plans. Understanding the implications of these changes and how to best leverage them can be complex, and that’s where professional financial advice becomes invaluable. SISIP is here to help. With expertise in serving the financial planning needs of Canadian military personnel, SISIP advisors can provide tailored advice and guidance. To navigate these new changes effectively and plan your path to homeownership with confidence, reach out to SISIP and book an appointment today. Your dream home is closer than...

T.J. Burnett, Financière SISIP Conseiller financier SISIP Comox, BC  —  Le gouvernement a récemment annoncé des modifications au Régime d'accession à la propriété (RAP) afin de soutenir les acheteurs d'une première maison. Ce régime, conçu pour rendre l'accession à la propriété plus accessible, permet désormais aux particuliers de retirer jusqu'à 60 000 $ de leur régime enregistré épargne-retraite (REER), ce qui représente une augmentation substantielle par rapport à la limite précédente de 35 000 $. Cette limite plus élevée offre aux acheteurs potentiels une plus grande marge de manœuvre financière pour couvrir les acomptes et les coûts associés, ce qui pourrait faciliter le processus d'accession à la propriété. En outre, un autre changement crucial a été apporté en ce qui concerne la période de remboursement. Auparavant, les particuliers devaient commencer à rembourser leurs retraits REER dans les deux ans suivant l'achat de leur logement. Ce délai a été porté à cinq ans, ce qui laisse plus de temps aux nouveaux propriétaires pour stabiliser leurs finances et s'adapter aux responsabilités liées à l'accession à la propriété sans être soumis à la pression immédiate du remboursement. Cette prolongation est particulièrement bénéfique dans le climat économique actuel, où la stabilité financière peut être imprévisible. Ces changements devraient avoir un impact significatif sur le marché du logement, en particulier pour les primo-accédants qui ont souvent du mal à accumuler un acompte suffisant. L'augmentation du plafond de retrait permet de réaliser des investissements initiaux plus importants, ce qui peut également conduire à de meilleurs taux et conditions hypothécaires. En outre, la prolongation de la période de remboursement offre un délai plus facile à gérer pour permettre aux particuliers de reconstituer leur épargne REER sans sacrifier leur santé financière. Pour les membres des forces armées canadiennes et leurs familles, ces changements constituent une excellente occasion de reconsidérer...

[caption id="attachment_36262" align="aligncenter" width="597"] Pierre tombale d'Henry Norwest. (Archives Glenbow)[/caption] Glenbow Archives, Canada.ca  —  L'un des tireurs d'élite canadiens les plus célèbres de la Première Guerre mondiale était un tireur d'élite métis, Henry Louis Norwest. Norwest est né à Fort Saskatchewan, en Alberta, d'une ascendance française et crie. En près de trois ans de service au sein du 50e bataillon d'infanterie canadien, le caporal suppléant a établi un record de tir de précision de 115 coups mortels. L'ancien gardien de ranch et artiste de rodéo a également mérité la Médaille militaire et la barrette, ce qui fait de lui l'un des quelque 830 membres du CEC à avoir reçu ce double honneur. La carrière de Norwest dans l'armée ne commence pas de manière aussi glorieuse. Il s'engage en janvier 1915 sous le nom de Henry Louie et est réformé au bout de trois mois pour mauvaise conduite. Huit mois plus tard, il s'engage à nouveau, sous un nouveau nom et avec une nouvelle ardoise. En fin de compte, Norwest s'avéra être une source d'inspiration pour son unité. Un camarade de combat a écrit à son sujet : Notre célèbre tireur d'élite comprenait sans doute mieux que la plupart d'entre nous le coût de la vie et le prix de la mort. Henry Norwest s'est superbement acquitté de son terrible devoir parce qu'il pensait que ses compétences particulières ne lui laissaient pas d'autre choix que d'accomplir sa mission indispensable. Notre tireur d'élite du 50e [bataillon] a accompli son travail avec un dévouement passionné et a fait preuve d'un détachement total pendant qu'il était en ligne... . Pourtant, lorsque nous avons eu la rare occasion de voir notre camarade de près, nous l'avons trouvé agréable et gentil, tout naturellement l'un des nôtres, et toujours une source d'inspiration. Le tireur d’élite est un rôle...

[caption id="attachment_36262" align="aligncenter" width="597"] Henry Norwest’s grave marker. (Glenbow Archives)[/caption] Glenbow Archives, Canada.ca  —  One of the most famous Canadian snipers in the First World War was a Métis marksman who went by the name of Henry Louis Norwest. Norwest was born in Fort Saskatchewan, Alberta, of French-Cree ancestry. In his nearly three years of service with the 50th Canadian Infantry Battalion, the lance-corporal achieved a sniping record of 115 fatal shots. The former ranch-hand and rodeo performer also merited the Military Medal and bar, making him one of roughly 830 members of the CEF to be awarded this double honour. Norwest’s career in the army did not begin so gloriously. He enlisted in January 1915 under the name Henry Louie, and was discharged after three months for misbehaviour. Eight months later, he signed up again, under a new name and with a fresh slate. Ultimately, Norwest proved to be an inspiration to his unit. A fellow soldier wrote of him: Our famous sniper no doubt understood better than most of us the cost of life and the price of death. Henry Norwest carried out his terrible duty superbly because he believed his special skill gave him no choice but to fulfil his indispensable mission. Our 50th [Battalion] sniper went about his work with passionate dedication and showed complete detachment from everything while he was in the line . . . . Yet when we had the rare opportunity to see our comrade at close quarters, we found him pleasant and kindly, quite naturally one of us, and always an inspiration. Sniping was a hazardous infantry role. Most snipers worked in pairs, with one partner shooting and the other observing—scanning the surroundings and reporting enemy movements. It is said Norwest possessed all the skills required of a sniper: excellent marksmanship, an ability to keep perfectly still for very long periods and superb camouflage techniques. Much of his time was spent in No Man’s Land, the dreaded area between opposing forces. As well, Norwest and...