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[caption id="attachment_25493" align="aligncenter" width="594"] Members of HMCS Calgary stand together in support of International Women’s Day Feb. 27 on the flight deck. Photos by Cpl Lynette Ai Dang, CAF Imagery Technician[/caption]Captain Jeff KlassenPublic Affairs Officer––International Women’s Day 2021 did not go unnoticed by the crew of HMCS Calgary.As the ship sailed toward its theatre of operations for Operations Artemis and Projection, Lieutenant (Navy) Anne Day led guided conversations with the crew about gender issues. On both March 7 and 8, sailors of all ranks, including the commanding officer, gathered in the wardroom to watch video lectures and participate in guided discussions. People talked about the new ‘Sailor’ ranks, implicit bias, on being one of a few women in a mess or wardroom, gendered uniforms, gendered perceptions on child care and parental leave, common gendered language heard in the navy such as saying “the guys” or “man overboard”, representation of women in the Canadian Armed Forces, recruiting, and more. “We wanted to engage participants with these ideas, to challenge their own assumptions and biases. Women still face a ton of obstacles, not just in the military but in society in general. As leaders and Canadians we must continually strive to break down barricades,” said Lt(N) Day. “Having people from across all ranks was really important to me because the cultural change we need to achieve requires diverse voices.”To direct and stimulate conversations she used prompts, such as a study that looked at the bias of how men are more likely to be perceived as “firm” or “leaders” and women are looked at as “argumentative”, “bossy”, or “abrasive” for the same actions. She brought up results of another study that showed men interrupt women three times as much as they interrupt other men. “I think we had some great discussions that captured a range of opinions. The act of having the conversation and being able to engage in that type of open dialogue with a broad spectrum of the crew will have...

[caption id="attachment_25474" align="aligncenter" width="595"] WO Dan Bodden of the base’s Transition Centre rides his stationary bicycle during a fundraiser for Wounded Warriors Canada on Feb. 24. WO Bodden and Sgt. Mike Kotuk of CFB Trenton peddled their bikes for 24 consecutive hours, logging 1,409 kilometres and raising close to $5,000 for mental health treatment and support programs for veterans and currently-serving members. Credit: Wounded Warriors Canada[/caption]Peter MallettStaff Writer––Sgt Mike Kotuk of CFB Trenton, ON, and WO Dan Bodden, CFB Esquimalt, cycled for 24 consecutive hours on Feb. 24 without getting anywhere, sort of. The cycling duo spun their wheels on a stationary bike to raise funds and awareness for The Wounded Warrior Run BC, since the yearly relay-style run was cancelled due to COVID-19. It has been tentatively rescheduled for April 11 to 18. WO Bodden and Sgt Kotuk’s alternate fundraiser, entitled 24 on the 24th for Wounded Warriors Canada, had them cycling 1,409 kilometres, raising $5,800. “I felt a sense of deep satisfaction when the clock finally hit 7 a.m. the next morning. We were both utterly delighted with the results,” says WO Bodden. “I couldn’t believe the generosity and support of people from everywhere.”WO Bodden is the co-founder of Wounded Warrior Run BC. The Search and Rescue Technician works as a Platoon Warrant Officer at the Transition Centre on base.During their ride, both men kept track of their distance, speed, and time on the popular cycling game platform Zwift. They were permitted to take occasional meal, bathroom, and rest breaks. While cycling they also made regular updates to their followers on Facebook. As time wore on, WO Bodden says the pain and fatigue in his body mounted. “Even with a plan of execution for fluid and nutrition, in an activity like this your hands, feet, knees, and your rear end...

[caption id="attachment_25471" align="aligncenter" width="595"] Naval Fleet School (Atlantic) staff look on from the control tower as their colleagues exercise the new helicopter simulator. Photo by Ryan Melanson, Trident Newspaper[/caption]Joanie VeitchTrident Newspaper––After months of anticipation, control operators and instructors fired up the new helicopter trainer at Naval Fleet School (Atlantic) Damage Control School in Purcell’s Cove, Halifax, on March 1. It’s in preparation for an individual helicopter crash rescue training course to go live later this month — the first at the school since November 2019.The new model is a huge improvement over the previous trainer, says LCdr Andrew Cumming, Commanding Officer at DCTF Kootenay, adding the old trainer was “rusted like an outdoor barbecue” after being heated and cooled during training exercises for nearly 20 years.Cyclone Trainers The new trainer simulates the navy’s CF-148 Cyclone, giving it new entry and exit points and different locations for potential fires than the previous helicopter frame, which was installed when DCTF Kootenay was built in 2002 and modelled on the CH-124 Sea King.Design for the new trainer frame began in 2015 with DCTF managers on both coasts offering feedback on their experience with the original frame. “The biggest change is the look and feel of the trainer to be a realistic rendition,” says LCdr Cumming. “In any fire, the sooner you can combat it, the more likely it won’t get out of control. You will lower the temperature to increase the survivability of anyone inside. That’s why this training is critical, so that teams advance as quickly and safely as possible to prevent loss of life.”Systems within the helicopter will extend its service life, such as improved steel and a water system that ensure it doesn’t get as hot as the previous frame, preventing thermal expansion.The new helicopter trainer was built and installed...

CAPT Jeff KlassenPublic Affairs officer––I’m no sailor. If I were a pirate in a children’s cartoon you’d call me a “land lubber”. In fact, most of what I’ve done in my military career (sure, it’s just a short three years) has been in a chair staring at a computer screen. Actually, it’s worse than that – sitting in a chair, staring at a computer screen… in Ottawa! (I jest.)  I was recently given the opportunity to go on a task group exercise with one of our Halifax-class warships, HMCS Regina. I couldn’t have been more thrilled. Doing exciting things like this is exactly why I joined the military!So, what’s life like on a warship Jeff? I’m glad you asked. I am going to tell you, but it’s going to be over a series of blog posts made throughout my time in Regina.Blog Post One: An overview of the ship (an organism that never sleeps)I’m writing this about six days into my voyage with HMCS Regina, and what I’m saying is really about this ship, but I feel that I could probably generalize a bit.Warships are really cool. They are cool in the sense that they are giant, floating, autonomous, powerful, multi-purpose, self-sustaining systems that never sleep. This system operates something like an organism; it is not just made up of hardware and equipment but also hundreds of differently trained people, all necessary for the overall functionality and effectiveness of the ship. There’s almost no spare room for the non-essential.The cool thing about living on the ship is you are in the middle of all this. All these integrated yet separate people and parts of the system move around and interact in a dance whose continual performance is needed for the good functioning of the whole.Let’s look at the ship from the...

[caption id="attachment_25462" align="aligncenter" width="595"] Sailors First Class Triston (left) and Anton Manson have followed similar paths in life, and the brothers are currently posted to HMCS Toronto. Photo by Mona Ghiz, MARLANT PA[/caption]Ryan MelansonTrident Newspaper––For HMCS Toronto, the 2020 Operation Reassurance deployment was anything but routine. While still reeling from the tragic crash of HMCS Fredericton’s Cyclone helicopter last spring, the ship left Halifax in July, joining NATO allies in the Mediterranean under tight COVID-19 restrictions.For Sailors First Class Anton and Triston Manson, two brothers posted to Toronto, the sail presented several challenges, with pre-deployment preparations complicated by health restrictions, and the extra stress of being overseas during a pandemic. Being in the unique position of having a close family member on board was a blessing.“I got lucky this time; I had that little piece of home with me, so my brother and I were able to lean on each other,” said Triston. “We don’t always see each other during the workday, but we’ll always eat together, and we hang out every day if we’re in port. We’re also good friends, which helps.”It’s not the first time the pair has sailed as part of the same crew. They’ve been able to share a good portion of their naval experiences with each other, and even prior to beginning their Forces careers, the brothers followed similar paths. Both were standout hockey players at a young age, playing at different times at the Major Junior level for the Shawinigan Cataractes, and both had a taste of working odd jobs in the private sector before deciding on the navy route.They were inspired by their grandfather, a Royal Canadian Navy veteran, and their father, who encouraged them to consider military service.“My job is extremely important to me. I’m able to provide a good life for...

[caption id="attachment_25456" align="aligncenter" width="595"] Canadian country musicians Julie Kennedy and Carli Kennedy have teamed up with singer-songwriter Mallory Johnson to create a new song and music video entitled Wise Woman in celebration of International Women’s Day. The video includes an appearance by CPO1 Line Laurendeau.[/caption]Peter MallettStaff Writer––Female trailblazers from B.C., Newfoundland, and Tennessee are making an appearance in a new country music video by Twin Kennedy and singer and songwriter Mallory Johnson. Among them is CFB Esquimalt’s CPO1 Line Laurendeau. The Royal Canadian Navy non-commissioned officer has a brief but relevant appearance in the soon-to-be-released music video Wise Woman, which celebrates International Women’s Day. “It was a great honour for me to participate in this video and represent the Royal Canadian Navy, and to be quite honest I was flattered by the invitation,” says CPO1 Laurendeau. “There are so many female trailblazers in our Formation, and I am just one of many.” Twin Kennedy are two sisters, Carli and Julie Kennedy, born and raised in Powell River, B.C. They grew up perfecting their harmonies, with Carli on guitar and Julie on fiddle. They both earned bachelor degrees in music performance from the University of Victoria. They are now based in Nashville, TN.“Given that the video focuses on powerful women and their roles, she was a perfect fit, and we are so excited that Line agreed to be part of the video,” says Carli. “We have the utmost respect for military people, so to have a female member in a leadership role at CFB Esquimalt is something to be celebrated.”Among the 50 women appearing in the video are locals LCdr (Retired) Frances Dearman, who served 23 years for naval reserve unit HMCS Malahat; Samantha Kryzwonos from the Esquimalt Military Resource Centre Board of Directors; Beth Dick, a drummer for the Lək̓ʷəŋən Traditional Dancers; Tiko Yoneda, a psychology instructor at the University of Victoria, and Daksha Narsing, owner and founder of Daksha’s Gourmet Spices. “The video speaks of female empowerment and our...

[caption id="attachment_25449" align="aligncenter" width="595"] Local photographer Richard Paddle aims his camera at Esquimalt Harbour. Over the years he has photographed dozens of navy vessels along with a wide range of other subjects.[/caption]Peter MallettStaff Writer––When Richard Paddle focuses his camera lens on Royal Canadian Navy warships and tugs, he sees majestic engineering marvels. From the vantage of the shoreline, he captures them sailing to and from their home berth in Esquimalt Harbour.The amateur photographer, 67, has even sailed aboard one - HMCS Winnipeg – for a day sail.   “I am a proud Canadian and love the work those men and women aboard our ships do to protect our country,” he says. “I know they have demanding jobs and I respect the work they do.” Which is why he devotes a lot of time at Fort Rodd Hill, Esquimalt Lagoon, and Ogden Point in hopes of taking the perfect shot of their grey hulls with the recognizable Pacific Northwest landscape in the background. One photo recently served as inspiration for marine artist Christina Morrison’s painting of CFAV Tillicum. “His shots of the tugboats and navy vessels are awesome, and he was more than willing to help me with my art project,” says Morrison. He’s been at this hobby for 17 years, developing his skill and growing his equipment. “I started with a little point and shoot then went to a Canon Rebel soon after. I now use four cameras: two Canon 7D Mark ll, a Canon 5D Mark ll and a Canon 50D. Each has its purpose, so I don't have to change lenses all the time. The 5D is set up now for astrophotography which I'm starting to play around with.”Over time, he has amassed over 200,000 images. “I’d be lost without photography, it’s my outlet in life. I love nature, the...

[caption id="attachment_25446" align="aligncenter" width="594"] The keel laying is a naval tradition that, in modern times, involves welding a coin into a large piece of the ship’s frame.[/caption]Ryan MelansonTrident Newspaper––The fourth Arctic and Offshore Patrol Vessel (AOPV) being built for the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) has now entered full production, marked by a keel-laying ceremony on Feb. 17 for the future HMCS William Hall.Following public health directives, including respecting physical distancing and mask wearing, a small group of sailors, shipbuilders, and community members gathered at Irving Shipbuilding’s Halifax Shipyard for the occasion, which had the added significance of taking place during Black History Month.Petty Officer William Hall was the first Black person and the first Nova Scotian to be awarded the Victoria Cross. His heroic actions as a crewmember of the Royal Navy ship HMS Shannon during the 1857 Relief of Lucknow, India, are well documented. This led to his selection as one of six Canadian naval heroes to serve as namesakes for the navy’s newest class of ships.The shipbuilder invited representatives from the East Preston Empowerment Academy, a Halifax-area organization offering trade apprenticeship programs and other education opportunities in that predominantly African Nova Scotian community, to attend the keel laying. They were joined by Rear-Admiral (RAdm) Brian Santarpia, Commander Maritime Forces Atlantic and Joint Task Force Atlantic (MARLANT/JTFA), Irving Shipbuilding President Kevin Mooney, and provincial African Nova Scotian Affairs Minister Tony Ince, along with small groups from the MARLANT and Irving teams.The keel laying is a naval tradition that, in modern times, involves welding a coin into a large piece of the ship’s frame – the gesture is meant to provide good luck and safety to the ship and those who will eventually crew it. For the future HMCS William Hall, responsibility for laying the coin was shared between RAdm Santarpia and shipbuilders Tyrell Young, a participant in the Pathways to Shipbuilding program for African Nova Scotians, and Macey Rolfe, who is enrolled in a similar program aimed at recruiting...

Join us in celebrating Commonwealth Day on Monday, March 8 at 7 p.m. with the Commonwealth Cadets Virtual Band Concert. Featuring musicians from Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom, the concert will include the traditional hymn “The Crown that Fadeth Not”, Meghan Trainor’s “All About That Bass”, and the “March of the Cobblers” by Bob Barratt. Fourteen sea, army, and air cadets from B.C. will represent Canada in this unique concert that brings together young musicians from around the world. Join the watch party on the B.C. Cadets Facebook page, and check there for an access link after the event or type in https://www.facebook.com/events/1040939569728283/––––

This Q&A features HMCS Brandon’s Commanding Officer, Lieutenant-Commander Maude Ouellet-Savard. The ship is currently deployed on Operation Caribbe. LCdr Ouellet-Savard assumed command of the ship in July 2019.Are you the first person in your family to be in the military?Yes, to the surprise of my family as they did not expect me to join. And I’m still in 20 years later because I love the sea!Where was your favourite place to sail in your career?Croatia and Thailand were two very different areas I sailed to, but very beautiful in their own ways. I had great experiences there in 2008. I had a chance to go back to Croatia two more times after that and it was still as amazing.What’s your favourite smell on ship?When the cooks make fresh bread, it’s a comfort smell that reminds me of home. And I can’t say no to homemade bread!What’s your favourite part about the job?There’s something new every day, there’s no monotony at sea. There are always new people, new challenges, new tasks. It’s never boring.What is your favourite activity to do in free time while at sea?I like to be creative and do things that take my mind away from work. I’ve done painting, crocheting, and drawing, anything that allows me to disconnect and relax, but still allows me to answer the phone every few minutes. How did you get such an excellent crew on board?A bit of luck at the beginning, but really just great people attracting great people. I think we’ve gained a good reputation for having good morale on board by fostering a welcoming environment that people are attracted to.What motivates you to be the Captain of the ship?It’s a goal that all Naval Warfare Officers look forward to: having a crew and executing a mission together; it is...

[caption id="attachment_25430" align="aligncenter" width="595"] Royal Norwegian Navy Frigate HNoMS Fridtjof Nansen and HMCS Halifax conduct Replenishment-at-Sea (RAS) in the Norwegian Sea on Feb. 18, during Task Group 21-1. Photo by S1 Bryan Underwood[/caption]Standing NATO Maritime Group One (SNMG1) recently took part in Task Group (TG) 21-1 from Feb. 8-19. It is an annual maritime exercise conducted by the Royal Norwegian Navy in the waters and fjords off the coast of Bergen, Norway.TG 21-1 supported the training and qualification of NATO future submarine commanders, while enhancing the surface and underwater warfighting skills of 11 participating warships and submarines from six Allied nations: Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, the Netherlands, and Norway. These vessels were joined by numerous smaller aircraft and helicopters, including the embarked maritime helicopter air detachments on board the SNMG1 flagship HMCS Halifax, and the Danish HDMS Hvidbjørnen.These training exercises were designed to increase Allied readiness and interoperability, as well as the capability to conduct various high-intensity operations in the challenging Norwegian littoral and Arctic environment, which consists of high mountains and narrow fjords. “Our aim is to provide first-class training within Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW), as well as realistic scenarios for submarines,” said Rear Admiral Rune Andersen, Chief of the Royal Norwegian Navy. “It is vital that we develop and maintain our basic warfighting skills, and that we do it together. The participation of SNMG1 adds value and improves the quality of the training.”During TG 21-1, NATO was represented by Halifax, German Navy tanker Spessart, French Navy frigate Latouche-Tréville, and Royal Norwegian Navy frigate Fridtjof Nansen.“TG 21-1 provided excellent and unique training opportunities for SNMG1, especially with respect to validating our ASW tactics, techniques, and procedures,” said Commodore Bradley Peats, Commander of SNMG1. “It was a privilege to have taken part in such a robust training exercise that is renowned...

[caption id="attachment_25422" align="aligncenter" width="594"] Captain Sye VanMaanen, Padre, leads the burial party from The British Columbia Regiment on June 12, 2019, during the burial ceremony of First World War fallen soldier, Private George Alfred Newburn at the Commonwealth War Graves Commission’s Loos British Cemetery outside Loos-en-Gohelle, France. Photo by MCpl PJ Letourneau, Canadian Forces Combat Camera[/caption]––In the spirit of World Anthropology Day on Feb. 18, I wanted to share what I do as a forensic anthropologist. I am the Casualty Identification Coordinator for the Canadian Armed Forces. I analyze newly discovered skeletal remains of Canadian service personnel who were killed in action during the First and Second World Wars, as well as the conflict in Korea, and who have no known grave.The Casualty Identification Program aims to identify the remains of more than 27,000 Canadian war dead so they may be buried with their name, by their regiment, and in the presence of family. Since 2007, the Program has successfully identified the human remains of 31 Canadian soldiers, while five sets of remains have been buried as unknown soldiers when identification was not possible. People are often surprised that the remains of Canadian war dead continue to be discovered today. It is certainly not a daily occurrence; however, a number of new cases come to my desk every year. My goal, as a forensic anthropologist, is to return the names and faces to those who died in service to Canada, some of them more than 100 years ago. The process is not as easy as what television shows such as “Bones” and “CSI” make it out to be. Due to a number of circumstances, it can take many years before we are able to identify remains. Some of the remains I continue to work on were discovered 10 years ago.Why not use DNA?...

[caption id="attachment_25419" align="aligncenter" width="594"] PO2 Nevawn Patrick, a member of the Stadacona Band, has written an original piece of music inspired by the story of the No.2 Construction Battalion. The piece was recently recorded by the band and released as part of a Black History Month Project. Photo by LS Brad Upshall[/caption]Ryan MelansonTrident Newspaper––A longtime member of the Stadacona Band has written and recorded a piece of music inspired by some of the first Black Canadians to serve in military roles.PO2 Nevawn Patrick’s original composition started as a work-from-home project last year, and has since developed into a fully realized song that was recorded by the band in their Windsor Park studio.The working title is For My Country, an ode to Dennis and Leslie McLaughlin’s book of the same name that offers a history of Black military service in Canada. That book showcasing members of the trailblazing No.2 Construction Battalion gave PO2 Patrick the original spark.“I used the story of the No. 2 Construction Battalion as a springboard for this project,” he says.While the all-Black First World War Battalion and the discrimination they faced in their service to Canada served as his inspiration, the piece is dedicated to all Black Canadian military members – past, present and future.The score acknowledges that even today Black Canadian Armed Forces members may face discrimination, tokenism, or subtle biases in a way unique from the experience of their non-Black colleagues.“In writing this piece, I offer my humble attempt to honour those who paved the way for myself and generations of Black Canadians to proudly serve, and acknowledge our civilian brothers and sisters serving in the greater Defence Team,” PO2 Patrick adds.As a military musician for 25 years, he’s performed around the world on his trombone and played countless iconic pieces of music, but writing...

[caption id="attachment_25414" align="aligncenter" width="595"] Howard Lake, 102, from Grand Bank, NFLD, reads a card sent to him by Cdr Michele Tessier while wearing his new HMCS Margaret Brooke baseball hat. Lake served in the Second World War and, along with nursing sister Margaret Brooke, survived a torpedo attack while transiting aboard passenger ferry SS Caribou from Nova Scotia to Newfoundland in 1942. Brooke was later honoured for her heroic effort to save a fellow nursing sister. The Arctic and Offshore Patrol Vessels are named for courageous Canadians such as Brooke. Photo credit: Carl Rose[/caption]Peter MallettStaff Writer––A kind act by a Royal Canadian Navy Commander has left a Second World War veteran grinning from ear-to-ear.The source of jubilation for 102-year-old Hedley Lake was a hand-delivered card and a baseball cap embroidered with HMCS Margaret Brooke – a future Arctic and Offshore Patrol Vessel (AOPV). AOPVs are named after courageous Canadians.Lake was on board passenger ferry SS Caribou with Margaret Brooke when it was torpedoed by a German U-Boat on Oct. 14, 1942, 75 kilometres off the coast of Newfoundland. They both survived, but 137 people did not. She was honoured for her courageous attempt to keep fellow nursing sister SLt Agnes Wilkie alive as they clung to the side of a capsized and partially destroyed lifeboat. SLt Wilkie eventually succumbed to hypothermia and was swept away by ocean currents never to be seen again. “It’s incredible to connect with someone who sailed with Margaret Brooke, who our new navy vessel is named for,” says Cdr Michele Tessier, who sent the items. “It just seemed like the right thing to do and to be honest, I am really at a loss for words of the gratitude I feel to these great citizens of our country who served in the Second World War.”The gifts were delivered Jan. 28 to Lake’s Grand Bank retirement home by Cdr Tessier’s father Jim, and his close friend Carl Rose, with a note from the naval officer, who...

Contributed by Broadmead Care––Lois Delaney Harnett-Shaw, Grade 7 student at St. Margaret’s School, brought 225 hand-written and many hand-made Valentine's cards for each resident living at Veterans Memorial Lodge.Hearts for Happiness, as she calls it, is her own project.  For many nights and weekends, Lois worked on the cards. She organized students in Grade 2 through Grade 7 to write about half of the cards, and she personally enhanced each one to make sure that each resident received an equally decorated heart or kind sentiment. The project turned into many more days, hours and emails than Lois had imagined – all to bring a Valentine's smile to those living in long term care. Carol Cluff, resident at Veterans Memorial Lodge met Lois through a window visit, and was delighted to receive the 225 hand-made cards on behalf of the residents.  “I heard my mom talk a lot about the pandemic and the restriction placed on seniors living in long term care,” shared Lois. “My heart aches for them, and I hope this gesture will make a difference and bring many smiles.” Broadmead Care, a non-profit organization, offers long-term care and programs for people who require assistance every day. With five locations in the Victoria area and compassionate, dedicated staff, we live our purpose by building communities where every person can experience wellbeing and happiness.––––

[caption id="attachment_25391" align="aligncenter" width="595"] Steady as she goes through the Gulf Islands - members of HMCS Malahat take part in NABS simulation training at CFB Esquimalt on Feb. 6-7.[/caption]SLt Donald DenHMCS Malahat Public Affairs Officer––While current COVID-19 protocols make the holding of regular training challenging, many units are getting creative in maintaining a state of readiness. During the weekend of Feb. 6 to 7, members of Victoria’s Naval Reserve Division (NRD) HMCS Malahat were able to take part in virtual ship training at CFB Esquimalt. The Naval Officer Training Centre’s Navigation and Bridge Simulator, or ‘NABS’ for short, is a series of virtual training platforms on-location at the base meant to simulate the bridge of various Royal Canadian Navy ships. Along with all the proper equipment that would be found on the bridge and appropriate scaled space and seating, the NABS offer a 360-degree realistic field of view, using multiple monitors to simulate an ‘at-sea’ environment. By using customized computer programming, everything from pitching and rolling seas during a thunderstorm to simulating numerous classes of vessels and locations can be generated to support sailors’ training. Due to its proximity to Esquimalt, Malahat is the only NRD in Canada right now that can access the NABS training facility as COVID-19 restrictions currently prevent other units from travelling. In addition to being able to make use of the NABS facilities, Malahat was also able to fully run the program with its own personnel, thanks to a split of Officers and Non-Commissioned-Members, sea-based trades, and an extensive amount of on-ship experience. NABS provides an excellent practice environment to prepare those members that are still waiting for their sea training. “Being in NABS is intimidating at first, but it’s great fun,” says A/SLt Alistair Hirst, a junior Naval Warfare Officer. “It very much feels like the...

[caption id="attachment_25387" align="aligncenter" width="594"] Nicole Wray, Soldier On Regional Coordinator for B.C., stands in front of a promotional poster at her office in Nelles Block. Wray says she is eager to begin her new job of assisting mentally and physically injured currently serving and retired military members find paths to recovery through sport and activity. Photo credit: Soldier On[/caption]Peter MallettStaff Writer––Nicole Wray brings a bounty of experience to her new position as Soldier On Regional Coordinator B.C. She holds a Master’s degree in sport and organizational psychology, is a researcher, a strength and conditioning coach, an avid outdoor athlete, and grew up surrounded by a  military family and the military community. Combined, they give her unique insight into the challenges of ill and injured currently serving and retired military members – her clients – and how to help them.“I get to combine my areas of passion and expertise to contribute to the service and support of both currently serving members and veterans,” said Wray. “I look forward to getting to know the B.C. members, strengthening their relationship with Soldier On, and growing our presence on the West Coast.”Her job is to support members with physical and mental illnesses and/or injuries to a path of recovery through sport and exercise. “My goal has always been to pursue a career where I am making a positive difference and giving back to people that have supported me personally [her family] and our country collectively.” Her grandfather served in the Army during the Cold War; her late father served in the air force; her brother currently works in the Signals Branch of the army, and many of her mentors continue to serve across the army, navy, and air force. This deep connection, Wray says, helps her understand the challenges and stresses of a military member’s life,...

On Valentine’s Day, S3 Tanveer Bammy, a navy cook by trade, successfully accomplished his confirmation dinner to complete one of his training packages. This dinner included four courses and was evaluated on things such as preparation, procurement, time management, service, hygiene, and sanitation. The menu consisted of fresh dinner rolls, tuna sashimi poke bites, spinach salad, grilled rib steak with blue cheese gratin, baked fresh vegetable bouquet, creamy whipped sweet potatoes, and pina colada cheesecake with white chocolate truffle shavings. Cooks on ships hold an important responsibility to ensure crew morale, health, and well-being by serving fresh, healthy, and succulent meals.  By reaching this milestone, S3 Bammy is now able to move on to more advanced cook training.Photos by S1 Lisa K. Wallace, Canadian Armed Forces[caption id="attachment_25382" align="aligncenter" width="371"] S3 Tanveer Bammy[/caption]––––

[caption id="attachment_25377" align="aligncenter" width="595"] On Feb. 17, Capt(N) Sam Sader, Base Commander (right), presented a cheque to Dave Ramsay from the United Way of Greater Victoria (left), accompanied by Mark Miller, base civilian NDWCC co-chair, CPO1 Steve Wist, Acting Base Chief, and Margot Cutcher, NDWCC Co-ordinator.[/caption]Every year, CFB Esquimalt’s Defence Team comes together to support those in need through the National Defence Workplace Charitable Campaign (NDWCC). This year, despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, CFB Esquimalt raised just over $170,000 for local communities, money that will help make a big difference during what has been a very hard year for many.“This was a historically difficult campaign, but I couldn’t be more proud of how everyone across the base and the formation came together to rise to the challenge,” says Capt (N) Sam Sader, Base Commander. “Our communities have always been great supporters of the base, and I am grateful for the efforts of our Defence Team to give back to their neighbours, especially in this time of need. The money raised will make a real impact in the community.”Through the NDWCC, Defence Team members could choose to support HealthPartners, United Way, or any other registered Canadian charity.In light of the hardships caused by the pandemic, the United Way Centraide Canada prioritized increasing funding to programs for seniors, families in need, mental health and addictions, and diversity and inclusion. In neighbouring communities this includes: offering meals and companionship to seniors, increasing literary skills and providing books to children, providing counselling and addictions services, and contributing funds to Little Phoenix Daycare, a centre with a focus on providing care for children suffering from trauma.Donations made to HealthPartners will help support life-changing research and provide local programs and services to individuals living with chronic disease or major illness, a high-risk demographic during...

[caption id="attachment_25374" align="aligncenter" width="594"] The Crew of HMS Montrose on the flight deck with their 2.7 tonne capture on Feb. 6, 2021.[/caption]Lt(N) Melissa KiaOp Artemis / CTF 150 PAO––The breaking sun languishes off a bleary horizon in the Northern Arabian Sea on a strip of ocean known as the “Hash Highway” as a suspicious vessel plods its way south off the coast of Oman.The dhow is being shadowed by the HMS Montrose, a Royal Navy Type 23-class Frigate, who is working under the command of Combined Task Force (CTF) 150 to halt would-be smugglers.The potential for a big bust hangs in the air amongst the crew who interdicted more than 275 kilograms of heroin only 36 hours previous in the same area. The hunt is on.To the north, in Bahrain, sits the Command Centre for CTF 150 where the team of Operation Artemis operate. The night crew of the Battle Watch are hard at work coordinating with the Royal Navy frigate. They sport their COVID-19 protective masks, and adhere to new editions to their work routines including physical distancing and enhanced hygiene measure to ensure they are safe as well as highly operational. The objective of the joint Canadian-Australian staff is clear: disrupt terrorist organizations from using the high seas for smuggling weapons, unlawful cargo, and drugs, all of which fund and support their illegal activities. CTF 150 is a naval task force whose command was recently assumed by Commodore (Cmdre) Daniel Charlebois of the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN). Its mission is to conduct Maritime Security Operations in a large area that includes the Arabian Sea, Gulf of Aden, Indian Ocean, and the Red Sea. This task force operates under Combined Maritime Forces (CMF), a voluntary, non-political organization and multinational coalition of 33 nations whose focus is on the security,...

[caption id="attachment_25370" align="aligncenter" width="595"] The Health Promotion Team[/caption]The Mental and Social Wellness Working Group of the MARPAC Health and Wellness Strategy is encouraging Defence Team members to dress with a difference, and proudly wear pink.Pink Shirt Day began in 2007 when two students from Nova Scotia took a stand against bullying. Since then, Pink Shirt Day has evolved into an annual campaign that brings awareness and raises funds to support anti-bullying, while promoting kindness, respect, and civility. It has expanded beyond schools to include workplaces and professional environments, and is supported all over the world.Official Pink Shirt Day t-shirts can be purchased at London Drugs, or you can wear a pink shirt you already have, or one from last year.The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted us all, and has shown the importance of helping one another and advocating for those who need it. It’s been a tough year and everyone is dealing with a lot, so being kind and doing something nice for one another can mean even more these days.––––

[caption id="attachment_25367" align="aligncenter" width="595"] Sailor’s Second Class Colton Tom (centre) and Liam Fisher (front) are promoted to their current rank by Commander Landon Creasy (left) and Lieutenant (Navy) Rebbeca Macdonald on board HMCS Regina Feb. 8. Photo by Lieutenant Jeff Klassen, Canadian Armed Forces Photo[/caption]Lt Jeff KlassenHMCS Regina PAO––Two base brats from different coasts meet up in basic training, become best friends, get posted to the same Canadian warship, get promoted at the same time - and somewhere in there they buy puppies together. That’s the story of Sailor Second Class (S2) Liam Fisher, 21, from Greenwood, Nova Scotia, and his “best friend” S2 Colton Tom, 24, from Victoria, British Columbia. The two have a sort of special camaraderie they’ve developed through their military career as stewards.“I say he’s my military issued best friend,” said S2 Tom.Both S2 Tom and S2 Fisher decided to join the military because they have parents who’ve served. S2 Fisher’s father is Master Warrant Brian Fisher, a Meteorological Technician at Canadian Forces Base Gagetown and S2 Tom’s dad, Ron Tom, retired as a Chief Petty Officer Second Class Boatswain on the west coast.S2s Fisher and Tom met for the first time during their 2018 basic training, in the laundry room of ‘The Mega’ (the giant building in St. Jean-Sur-Richelieu, Quebec, where most basic training goes on).“We weren’t in the same platoon,” said S2 Tom. “During the first few weeks we were hanging out in the laundry room and neither of us had met another steward before, we were so excited. We didn’t even really know what the job was about yet.”Throughout basic training they spent their down time messaging each other or hanging out in the cafeteria in front of the Subway restaurant on base. S2 Tom graduated Basic Training first (he was two weeks...

Peter MallettStaff Writer––Organizers of this year’s Volunteer Appreciation event have found a unique way to celebrate the occasion while respecting provincial COVID-19 health and safety directives: a fully supplied virtual cooking class.The invitation-only, digital event take places Feb. 20 with an expected 99 invitees. Sponsored by the CANEX Volunteers’ Recognition Program, the evening cooking class is a fun way to recognize volunteers who donate their time to the Esquimalt Military Family Resource Centre (MFRC), Personnel Support Programs (PSP), and the CFB Esquimalt Naval and Military Museum.Festivities will kick off with opening remarks from Capt(N) Sam Sader, Base Commander, and Sarah Johnson, CANEX Store Manager, followed by the virtual cooking class led by Chef Dan Hayes of The London Chef. Chef Hayes is co-host of the cable television cooking show Moosemeat and Marmalade.“Interest and response has been great for this event with over 90 per cent of the participants already confirming their participation over a week ahead of the event,” says Christine Farrington, event organizer. “We have a good cross-section of volunteers from across the base being honoured and they have been telling us they really like this unique new way of saying thanks.” Ingredients to make Chicken Tagine will be given to each volunteer the day of the event, either by picking them up at a set location or direct to their door via a refrigerated delivery truck. Attendees will then cook Chicken Tagine through Chef Hayes’ step-by-step instructions. Who are these volunteers?Sixty-four MFRC volunteers are being recognized for their approximately 2,100 hours of time in 2019 and 2020.While most in-person events over the past year have been cancelled or postponed due to the pandemic, the MFRC has relied almost entirely on virtual volunteering. “Because many military families found themselves isolated or otherwise adversely affected by the pandemic it was...

[caption id="attachment_25350" align="aligncenter" width="594"] COUNTER ATTACK WATCHA pen and ink self portrait that is based on a photograph taken by my fire team partner while on a defensive exercise in Meaford, ON. I drew this piece to portray a sense of mental exhaustion and sleep deprivation while maintaining a vigilant watch. This period of my career was the most difficult, both mentally and physically. It is also a personal reminder that when things in life seem to not be going well, or times are tough, I think back to this time and remind myself “Well, at least I’m not in Meaford.” – Master Corporal Aydyn Neifer[/caption] Peter MallettStaff Writer–– Sketchbook, pencils, eraser, even chalk and pens are some of the first things Master Corporal Aydyn Neifer packs when deployed - even before his camera equipment. The Canadian Armed Forces Imagery Technician has embraced many art forms in his 43 years, from graphic design to photography to being one of the best public speakers the Canadian Armed Forces has had, to drawing and painting. “I can’t imagine not painting,” he says. “It’s a way to express myself even if no one ever sees them. Most of my works are just about painting for the sake of painting and trying to turn abstract concepts into visual art. I can’t imagine not being able to do that.” Much of his work is inspired by his military service that started in 2007 as a member of Third Battalion, Royal Canadian Regiment in Petawawa, ON. After three years as an Infantryman, he re-mustered to Image Tech, a trade that satisfies his itch to create. What he likes about the military is it can take him out of his comfort zone. “The military constantly challenges you to complete difficult tasks and learn new things,” he says....

[caption id="attachment_25347" align="aligncenter" width="595"] The Aeromedical Single Isolation Bio-containment Unit is a durable, reusable capsule for a single patient with sealed ports on its sides. This enables health care providers to access the patient, while protecting those outside the capsule from exposure to potential infectious pathogens. Photos by Private Natasha Punt[/caption]Royal Canadian Air Force Public Affairs––With the world still dealing with the threats posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF), in collaboration with Canadian Forces Health Services Group, is implementing a new bio-containment capability for the transport of infectious patients. Called the Aeromedical Single Isolation Bio-containment Unit (ASIBU), this new capability allows for the safe isolation of patients thought to be contagious while allowing medical experts to provide direct treatment. In effect, it allows medical staff to treat patients with virtually zero possibility of transmission of infection in either direction, all while being transported in an aircraft. “Our mandate is to provide quality health care in the air, at home, and abroad,” says Major Marilou Beaucage, the senior Nursing Officer with the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) Aeromedical Evacuation (AE) Flight at 8 Wing Trenton, ON.  “Caring for patients with an infectious disease adds a significant level of complexity; this new capability is an extra tool to help us bring patients back home or to the appropriate level of care safely.” Measuring approximately two metres long by one metre wide, the ASIBU is a durable, reusable capsule for a single patient with sealed ports on its sides. This enables health care providers to access the patient, while protecting those outside the capsule from exposure to potential infectious pathogens. Because of its relatively small size, the ASIBU can be used in most of the RCAF’s aircraft, including the CC-177 Globemaster, CC-150 Polaris, CC-130 H/J Hercules, CP-140 Aurora, CH-147F Chinook, CH-149 Cormorant...

[caption id="attachment_25340" align="aligncenter" width="595"] Daniel Bezna of Base Logistics’ Disposal Stores Warehouse, stands in front of a large industrial shredder. The shredder is used to break down some of the approximately 12,000 discarded IT and computer items Bezna handles each year. Photo Credit: BLOG[/caption]Peter MallettStaff Writer––Ever wonder what happens to your workplace computer bits and bytes when they are life cycled? At CFB Esquimalt, there is a program in place to sort, assess, recycle, and whenever possible repurpose them. Unwanted government-owned desktop computers, laptops, hard drives, monitors, printers, routers, switches, keyboards, and mice are dropped off daily at Base Logistics’ Disposal Stores Warehouse in dockyard. Daniel Bezna and other members of the disposal team then sort through the discarded equipment, segregating catalogued items into different disposition streams. Last year they handled almost 12,000 items. “Our success is that we have nearly 100 per cent of these items recycled, reused, and disposed of properly,” says Bezna. “Less than one per cent of material is actually thrown away in our general garbage bin and that is usually plastic packaging.”Bezna’s job is to ensure all customer’s items are properly received in the Defence Resource Management Information System. He also verifies that items are properly identified, that all DND markings are removed, and that the items contain no classified information, such as hard drives.“Whatever comes into this room needs to be catalogued so the chain of command can keep track of it all,” he says. “Accounting for all of these items is a huge part of my job and takes up about half of my time at work.” Finally, he chooses the disposal stream.  Items such as monitors found to be in good working order and not technologically obsolete are cleaned and redistributed within the Department of National Defence’s (DND) western region. Items that...

[caption id="attachment_25327" align="aligncenter" width="594"] Captain Paige Campbell[/caption]Royal Canadian Air Force Public Affairs––In her role as Air Combat Systems Officer with 442 Transport and Rescue Squadron, at 19 Wing Comox, BC, Captain Paige Campbell strives “to always be learning, having an open mind, and a positive attitude.” She believes this mindset “will take you further than you know. You never know if you will enjoy or excel at something until you try it."Capt Campbell brings this same point of view to her athletic pursuits, as well as her work with the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF). She is a two-sport athlete who won two national gold medals in 2019 as captain of the 19 Wing Women’s Volleyball Team, and as a member of the Canada West Women’s Soccer Team. The leadership she exhibits contributed greatly to the success of both teams. When she was posted to 19 Wing in 2019, she joined the women’s volleyball team. She served as the setter when they won the CAF women’s national volleyball championship. The pennant for that win is proudly displayed in the trophy case at 19 Wing Comox alongside the tournament’s coveted trophy.Capt Campbell was awarded the RCAF Female Athlete of the Year to recognize both her commitment to, and success in Canadian Armed Forces sports, as well as her participation and contribution to several civilian sports organizations. Being a part of sport in the CAF is important to Capt Campbell. “It is great to reconnect with old friends and to compete at a high level.”––––

Peter MallettStaff Writer––Food waste at CFB Esquimalt’s galleys, once scraped into green bins and hauled to the landfill, is now being decomposed on site.Two Power Knot LFC biodigesters installed at Nelles Block Galley decompose biodegradable garbage and turn it into grey water. Two more will be installed at Work Point’s Venture Galley as part of the base’s green initiative.“Anything that can protect our environment, reduce our carbon footprint and CO2 emissions, and cut costs at the same time is a great initiative,” says PO2 David Keneford, Nelles Block Galley Manager. Eliminating green bins means big cost savings as private waste contractors will no longer need to haul the contents away, plus there is the bonus of reduced mess and smell from the green bins and their contents. Now, kitchen staff will feed everything directly into the biodigesters, from unwanted food items to recently introduced biodegradable cutlery made of cornstarch, paper cups and plates.Each unit can process up to 200 pounds of waste in 24 hours, far more than what passes through Nelles Galley. The machine uses a mixture of a concentrated enzyme called powerzyme, sugar rice, and water to break down material and turn it into grey water, which can be treated in the wastewater stream or used for irrigation. About 97 percent of food waste is turned into grey water with the remaining three percent a fully compostable by-product. This natural process is significantly better for the environment.“It’s good to see the Government of Canada and Canada’s military are constantly pushing for more green initiatives and finding new ways of helping save our environment,” says PO2 Keneford. “This latest development is a morale booster and makes people feel more confident and better about the job they are doing.”––––

[caption id="attachment_25317" align="aligncenter" width="595"] From left to right: Selena and Gary Bath bring winter coats to Lynn Marchessault in Pink Mountain, BC, in November 2020. From there, Bath, a Canadian Ranger who lives in Fort St. John, drove Marchessault, her children, and pets more than 1,600 kilometres to the Yukon-Alaska border so she could reunite with her husband, a U.S. Army Staff Sergeant stationed in Fairbanks, Alaska.[/caption]Canadian Ranger Lindsay Chung4th Canadian Ranger Patrol Group––Canadian Ranger (CR) Gary Bath of Fort St. John, a member of the Pouce Coupe Canadian Ranger Patrol in northern British Columbia, has found himself doing countless television, radio, and newspaper interviews for national and international media outlets in the past few months.Last November, he helped reunite a military family from the United States in time for the holiday season by driving Lynn Marchessault and her two children more than 1,600 kilometres after they were caught in a snowstorm. People in Canada, the U.S., and even Europe have grabbed onto the story of CR Bath’s generosity and willingness to jump in and help others. He is back in the news again, as the American nut company Planters heard about his good deed and is honouring him and the Marchessaults. This year, instead of spending $5 million on a Super Bowl commercial, the company decided to highlight stories of people who went “a nut above” to help others. They are spending that ad money on those people and the initiatives they support. For CR Bath and Marchessault family, Planters is giving both a new car and a lifetime supply of nuts.“They sent us a message through Facebook Messenger, and the note started off with ‘This may sound crazy, but it’s the truth. Keep reading,’” said CR Bath. “They read our story and wanted to give us a gift.”CR Bath has been amazed by all the media attention the story has received“It’s been quite crazy and very busy with all the phone calls and interviews. When we first did...

Lt Jeff KlassenHMCS Calgary PAO––In late January and early February, the crew of HMCS Calgary were quarantining at a local hotel in preparation of their upcoming seven-month Operation Artemis and Operation Projection deployment to the Asia-Pacific region and Middle Eastern waters.For much of the crew, this will be their first deployment during the COVID-19 pandemic, which means significantly curtailed foreign port visits.The quarantine process, although a necessary measure to keep people healthy, came with its own frustrations. For a crew that will be away for over half the year, having to spend more time away from home confined to a single room was difficult. Everyone found their own ways of staying busy and remaining virtually connected to family and friends.––Sailor Second Class (S2) Matthew Jones, Marine TechnicianFrom Port Moody, BC“With the internet and all the technology we have today, quarantining isn’t really isolating,” says S2 Jones, who spent his quarantine reading and video-chatting with his girlfriend.“Our team does daily check-ins and there are Facebook group chats. I wouldn’t say it’s a blast, but it’s fine,” he said.Over the last year, Calgary has spent a lot of time training with various workups and exercises dating back to spring 2020. All that training has made him eager to deploy.“Even with all the challenges of COVID, even if we don’t do many port visits, this deployment has been long in the coming, so I’m very upbeat about the whole thing.”[caption id="attachment_25300" align="aligncenter" width="400"] S2 Matthew Jones read Lord of the Rings while in quarantine.[/caption]Captain (Capt) Eric Jurski,CH-148 Cyclone PilotFrom Mississauga, ON In 2020, Capt Jurski completed his Cyclone pilot training during the COVID-19 pandemic, so now he’s pretty well-adapted to the quarantine process. “I spent a good chunk of this pandemic in the Shearwater shacks isolating and just working out, so this is kind of a walk in the park for me. After working out, reading, looking over notes, and calling friends and family, it’s pretty easy to kill a whole day,” he said....