Archana Cini Lookout Newspaper Service deep beneath the waves is anything but quiet. To Chief Petty Officer Second Class (CPO2) Patricia Inglis, supporting emergency responses; maintaining morale in a confined environment; serving as a communication hub; upholding discipline; participating in briefings; and managing administrative tasks are just some of what keeps a submarine deployment fast paced. CPO2 Inglis is currently posted to HMCS Windsor as the Canadian Submarine Force’s (CSF) first female coxswain. The coxswain is especially vital on submarines where communication with the outside world fades underwater, space grows tight, and tensions run high. Though her appointment as the first female coxswain of a submarine carries historical significance, CPO2 Inglis remains focused on the responsibilities of her job. “I am incredibly proud to be the first woman to hold this position within the Canadian submarine community, and I sincerely hope to honour the legacy,” she said. “But importantly, I hope this reinforces that leadership within the CSF is about real competence, and the ability to connect with crew regardless of background.” To CPO2 Inglis, milestones like this also encourage long-term growth by demonstrating how diverse perspectives and approaches enhance team effectiveness. When it comes to the life of a submariner, what surprises people the most is lack of internet access beneath the surface. “While those serving on ships typically have access to both internal networks and the internet, the experience on a submarine is very different,” said CPO2 Inglis. “We have no access until we return to port, making even checking in with loved ones or reading the news impossible.” Raised in Nova Scotia, CPO2 Inglis didn’t always envision herself in a naval uniform. She first explored a career in tourism and hospitality; however, the sea called. After deploying aboard HMCS Winnipeg for anti-piracy operations in the Gulf of...

Archana Cini Lookout Newspaper When fantasy meets the Fleet, the unforgettable happens. On Apr. 4, the Farquhar Auditorium at the University of Victoria (UVic) swelled with music during the much-anticipated Fantasy, Myths, & Legends concert – a professional collaboration between the Naden Band of the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) and the UVic Wind Symphony. An engaging program featuring music from Moby Dick and Mordor to works inspired by Peter Pan and Firebird, locals agreed on the significance of experiencing military and student musicians performing side-by-side with camaraderie. To many, the evening was a moment of music, connection and mentorship – a testament to the powerful role our military musicians play in shaping future professionals. “The joint concert between the Naden Band and UVic’s Wind Symphony has long been a way to perform outstanding repertoire, provide guidance and mentorship to university students, and showcase a side of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) that isn’t often seen,” said Lieutenant (Navy) (Lt(N)) Benjamin Van Slyke, Naden Band’s Commanding Officer and one of the night’s conductors. When asked what it meant to play with talented university-level musicians, Lt(N) Van Slyke shared, “students get a chance to ‘level up’ their playing. They’re already at the university level and developing into wonderful players, but there’s nothing like the adrenaline surge of playing next to working professionals at the highest level.” The Naden Band performs across Canada and internationally in support of military and community events and has developed a strong reputation for collaborative outreach over the years. When it comes to supporting young musicians, the band prefers to tap into the power of shared performance and scholarships. In this case, proceeds from the evening funded the official Naden Band of Maritime Forces Pacific Scholarship in Music Performance, awarded annually to UVic music students demonstrating excellence in...

Canadian and Latvian Divers Jump From CH-148 Cyclone in High-Stakes Helocasting Jazmin Holdway with contributions by Andrea Modesto Lookout Newspaper Canadian combat engineer diving specialists (combat divers) from Gagetown, Valcartier, Petawawa, and Edmonton joined forces with port inspection divers from three Naval Reserve divisions and Latvian divers to train in this year’s iteration of Exercise Roguish Buoy, the Canadian Army’s only collective dive exercise held this year between Jan. 20 and Feb. 15 at CFB Albert Head in Metchosin, B.C. Helocasting is an insertion technique used when land access is not readily available and involves dispatching divers from a helicopter into the water to conduct operations such as area search and obstacle clearance, according to Master Corporal (MCpl) Mark Suffoletta, a member from 2 Combat Engineer Regiment based in Petawawa, Ont. who was involved in the exercise. He explained how crucial this training opportunity is for combat divers, preparing them for real-world scenarios in which the mobility of friendly forces is at stake. “What I like to say is we’re combat engineers underwater, so we do all the capabilities that combat engineers do, but below the surface,” he said. “When we say obstacle clearance, that’s clearing debris and anything that may impede our forces from coming in.” Captain (Capt) Willis Ripley, exercise director for Roguish Buoy 2025, highlighted the value of training in such dynamic environments. “Helocasting is just one tool in our toolbox,” he said. “It allows us to get members into the water in austere situations where traditional transport isn’t an option. This skillset could be used in scenarios like mine-clearing operations, obstacle removal, or responding to a crash in a remote area.” The exercise tested critical combat engineering capabilities by placing dive teams in a multitude of scenarios including search and recovery of sunken equipment, clearing shorelines from...

Matt Carlson, Projects Officer at CFB Esquimalt, and Dan Bodden, co-founder of the WWRBC, celebrate as the Wounded Warrior Run BC 2025 concludes at Market Square on Mar. 2. Photo: Archana Cini Archana Cini, Lookout Newspaper  —  The 2025 Wounded Warriors B.C. Run Concludes There is no better fuel than purpose when running 800 kilometres in just 8 days. An unforgettable adventure across Vancouver Island, the Wounded Warrior Run BC 2025 brought together a team of 18 Canadians (eight runners and ten support staff) to raise funds for trauma-exposed professionals in the community. The team’s efforts began in Port Hardy on Feb. 23 and culminated in a spectacular finish in Victoria’s Market Square on Mar. 2. More than $235,313 was raised for Wounded Warriors Canada, funds that will stay local to the island and support recovery, counselling, training, and education efforts for trauma exposed professionals, including Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members, veterans, first responders, and their families. Among this year’s runners was Kevin Whiteside. Many would know him as Captain(N) Kevin Whiteside, Base Commander of CFB Esquimalt, but he chose to run as himself, of his own volition, because he believed in supporting Wounded Warriors Canada and the programs they and other such organizations offer to trauma exposed professionals.  Surrounded by the community, his daughters, and a D.I.Y. Go Dad! poster after the journey, Kevin stressed that it was ultimately family that fuelled him through the eight strenuous days of running. “The toughest moment of the past week was leaving my family on Saturday, and the best moment was getting to see them again now, along with the incredible support from our community” he said. “It’s beyond special to support Wounded Warriors Canada – an organization that doesn’t just help trauma-affected individuals, but also their families and their communities. As a...

Archana Cini, Lookout Newspaper  —  The Naden Athletic Centre came alive on Mar. 6 as the annual MARPAC Health & Wellness Expo returned to CFB Esquimalt. With a lively crowd, engaging demonstrations, and a BBQ lunch fueling the fun, the event brought the Defence community and vendors together to celebrate the power of well-being. Visitors walked away with an array of prizes, valuable products, and meaningful insights to enhance their holistic health. Among the businesses in attendance was Saje Natural Wellness who displayed immersive healing and self-care products. “Ultimately, we’re here to spread well-being to a community that deserves to be healthy and happy,” said Kristina Thiele, Victoria store manager. “It’s rewarding to connect with people who are as excited about wellness as we are.” Throughout the event, Saje fostered conversations around self-care, encouraging military members and civilian employees to unapologetically prioritize themselves and their healing. MĀ Wellness & Yoga also inspired attendees with their mind-body approach to health. Captivating attendees with a soothing booth design, the local holistic wellness studio highlighted the value of preventative measures to the community. Stacy Picard, manager, shared how the MARPAC Expo provided the studio with an opportunity to show up for “those around us.” “People have the power to look after themselves, and we’re here to help them unlock that,” she said. The studio not only engaged visitors in conversations about movement and mindfulness, but also offered acupuncture demonstrations. Wellness vendors extended to include financial services with the attendance of BMO and SISIP, base clubs encouraging new registrations with CFB Esquimalt’s Garden Club, Golf Association, and Model Railroad Club, and base resources including Base Fire Prevention, the Dental Unit, Formation Safety and Environment, Complaint and Conflict Management Services, Defence Advisory Groups, and the Employee Assistance Program. Other notable attractions included an exciting technical shirt...

SISIP Financial, Esquimalt Team  —  Military life often means sacrifices - frequent relocations, time apart, and sometimes, one spouse stepping back from a career to support the family. For many Canadian Armed Forces families, this can lead to uneven incomes and, eventually, uneven retirement savings. That’s where a spousal Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) can make a world of difference.  What is a Spousal RRSP?  A spousal RRSP is set up in one partner’s name but funded by contributions from the other partner. This arrangement is especially useful when one spouse earns significantly more than the other.  Here’s the key: The contributing spouse gets the immediate tax deduction, while the funds grow in the account of the lower-income spouse. When it’s time to withdraw the money in retirement, it’s taxed at the lower-income spouse’s rate, often saving the couple money on taxes overall. Why Spousal RRSPs Work for Military Families  In military families, one spouse is often the primary breadwinner due to the demands of service. The other spouse may have a reduced or inconsistent income due to frequent relocations or childcare responsibilities. This income imbalance can create challenges in retirement, as the higher earner’s income from a CAF pension plus their RRSP could push them into a steep tax bracket.    A spousal RRSP helps balance this disparity by allowing the lower-income spouse to build retirement savings in their own name. Here’s why this matters: Lower Overall Tax Burden: Income splitting in retirement means less tax paid as a couple.  Greater Financial Independence: The lower-income spouse has their own source of retirement income.         Flexibility for Life’s Changes: If the lower-income spouse re-enters the workforce later, they can still decide to open an individual RRSP.  How Spousal RRSPs Work  Contributions: The higher-income spouse contributes to the spousal...

Archana Cini, Lookout Newspaper  —  Blood: one of the only medical resources that cannot be manufactured – only donated. On Mar. 3, the CFB Esquimalt Chief and Petty Officers' Mess transformed into a bustling mobile blood donation site in partnership with Canadian Blood Services. The drive brought together military members, civilian employees, and volunteers in a collective effort to boost B.C.'s blood supply, which has dropped over 40 per cent in the past two decades. The event saw strong turnout with returning and first-time donors alike rolling up their sleeves throughout the day to contribute to the needs of the local healthcare system. Several donors expressed their motivation for giving to be quite simple: the pure satisfaction of showing up for their community in the spaces it mattered. “It only takes about fifteen minutes, and the cookies and juice don’t hurt, either.” noted one returning military donor amongst shared smiles. Kirk Stringer, supervisor at Canadian Blood Services, highlighted how B.C.'s constant need for blood can often be difficult to comprehend to those outside of the healthcare industry. “One person could need ten units of blood from ten different donors in just twenty minutes," he said. "That's how fast units get utilized and why a consistent stream of donations like this is so vital.” Stringer also shared his appreciation towards the Defence community for showing up amidst a busy workday,  “After overcoming the challenges of organizing a mobile blood drive, it’s so heartwarming to see people step up and donate their healthy bodies with nothing to gain. It’s such a Canadian thing to do.” The event’s conclusion saw donations surpassing the day’s target, with over 100 units collected. Book now to donate at www.blood.ca.

  It is with deepest sadness that we announce the passing of John (Jack) Kimm —  Jack joined the Royal Canadian Navy in February 1989.  Coming from the small town of Chilliwack, British Columbia, Jack wanted to see the world and serve his country, and the navy was his choice of service. He did his basic training at CFB Cornwallis, then was posted to Esquimalt, B.C. Over the years, Jack served on many ships, including: • October 1989 HMCS MacKenzie • March 1993 HMCS Vancouver (Commissioning Crew) • December 1996 HMCS Regina • October 2005 HMCS Vancouver • November 2007 HMCS Winnipeg • April 2009 HMCS Ottawa • October 2010 HMCS Calgary He participated in many deployments and achieved recognition and awards for his service, including: • Special Service Medal – Peacekeeping • Canadian Forces Decoration • Canadian Peacekeeping Service Medal • South-West Asia Service Medal – Afghanistan Jack also achieved national qualifications in his Marine Engineer trade and was also a participant in many Canadian patrol frigate exercises.  He was proud to serve his country and excelled in his trade. While his service took him away from his family often, he was the proud father to his oldest son, Douglas (Doug) and youngest son, David.  His wife, Joanne, kept up the family home in his absence.  Jack was quiet in nature but adventurous. Growing up, he excelled in many sports, including football, skiing and soccer.  Family was important to him, which was reflected in the many letters home. Jack was diagnosed with colorectal cancer in 2022 from exposure to toxins while serving his country.  His last days were spent in Halifax Hospice, with his wife, son, and grandson by his side. Jack is survived by his loving wife of 34 years, Joanne, sons Douglas (Kyla) and David, and four grandchildren (Elodie, Violet, Charlie and Ryker). Jack is also survived...

Albert Stanley Middleton March 11, 1915 – February 12, 2025  _____ Sadly, we announce the passing of an incredible man who lived a remarkable long life.  Albert passed away peacefully at Veterans Memorial Lodge in Victoria, BC. Albert was born in London, England to a dockworker, James Middleton and Florence Middleton (nee Probert).  On March 29, 1929, at the age of 14, Albert immigrated to Canada as part of the National Children’s Orphanage travelling on the “Cedric”, landing in Halifax, Nova Scotia.  He worked as a child labourer for three years on farms to repay his passage from England.  This led to a long, prosperous, adventurous life through hard work, intestinal fortitude and determination. Albert served in WWII September 21, 1943 – July 12, 1946 with honourable discharge from the Royal Canadian Air Force (war Service Badge #391915) at 31 years of age.  Returning on the “Aquitania” proceeding to Lachine.  In 1952, with the Veteran’s Land Act, he purchased a 65-acre farm in Brantford, ON. While farming pigs and beef cattle and also working in many factories, he studiously attended night school and retired from Massey Ferguson in 1980. In his retirement years he returned to London, England for 20 years, enjoying travelling with Constance Middleton (deceased 1996). At the tender age of 90, Albert returned to Canada to Victoria, BC in the James Bay neighborhood.  At age 101 years, he moved into Veterans Memorial Lodge, where he was loved by staff and residents.  His singing and kisses for the nurses will be greatly missed with the infamous “Shweetheart”. Special thank you to all the staff at the Lodge for their care and compassion with Dad throughout his final years.  Also, a special thank you to Yvan for the many Facetimes and humorous stories shared. Missed by special friends Bob and...

In loving memory of James “Jim” Clark SilvesterApril 7, 1923 – February 13, 2025 _____ Dad quietly crossed the bar at home to be with the Lord Jesus in the early hours of February 13, with his daughter, son-in-law, and trusted dog companion Rocky, closely by him. Just about making his goal of 102. Dad was born in a suite on the top of King Edward School in Winnipeg. He was the second son for Henry and Ellen Silvester. Later on, he was graced with another brother and a sister. Dad joined the RCN at the age of 16, and served in WWII in the Convoy duty in the North Atlantic. He moved up in ranks from Seaman to Petty Officer 1st Class. The war ended, and he was honourably released from service in 1946. That is when he married the love of his life, Gwen, on June 29, 1946. They were married for 62 years till Mom’s passing in 2008. They had two sons, Brian and Dale, born in Montreal, and one daughter, Brenda, born in Winnipeg. Dad had rejoined the RCN Reserves in 1955, and served as an instructor to young cadets at HMCS Chippawa in Winnipeg. He was released from that duty in 1965. Dad had many hats with jobs, but settled as an Office Machine Technician at Great West Life in Winnipeg. Retirement came after 28 years with the company, and then Dad and Mom became snowbirds. They would travel to Texas from October to April each year, and enjoyed that for many years until they moved to BC to be with their daughter and family. After losing Mom, Dad stayed for a bit on his own, before moving into a suite below his daughter and son-in-law. That was his final destination. A sport enthusiast and...

Kelley Stark Communications Officer, MARPAC — The Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) is enhancing its capabilities through the newly established Advanced Naval Capabilities Unit (ANCU), which aims to address emerging maritime threats and push the boundaries of naval technology and tactics. This innovative unit focuses on Maritime Interdiction Operations (MIO), [...]

Captain Charles Offor, Padre MARPAC Chaplain  —  Military service in the Canadian Armed Forces can be highly rewarding. The demands of military service can be challenging and there are steps to boost your spiritual health as a Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) member. What is spiritual health? Spiritual health relates to the health and well-being of a person’s spirituality. Spiritual health recognizes our quest for deeper meaning and purpose in life. When we are spiritually healthy, we can feel more connected to a higher power and to those around us. This can help make our actions more consistent in our everyday choices. According to the spiritual health and well-being continuum, the benefits of having a spiritual life and being spiritually healthy are endless. The following are some ways we can improve our Spiritual health: Meditation Meditation is a practice many use to deepen their spiritual health connection, whether through a secular- or faith-based approach, meditating can give us a sense of greater self, which is a way of calming the mind and assisting us to disengage from the distractions of the external world. Meditation can enhance our ability to connect with our inner selves by creating space for reflection, and self-awareness. Meditating for 15-20 minutes a day can be a greater source of spiritual rejuvenation. Connection to a higher power and other people Practices like yoga or mindfulness can help enhance spiritual well-being by promoting mind/body harmony, flexibility, self-awareness, inner peace and a deeper connection to the universe. Connecting with family and friends can be ideal for improving spiritual health and well-being. It can help to build a sense of belonging and self-worth, and give you an opportunity to share experiences. Isolation can make it difficult to maintain spiritual connections in a meaningful way. Strong interpersonal relationships can boost our spiritual health...

Archana Cini Lookout Newspaper — The Defence Team of Canadian Forces Base (CFB)Esquimalt presented a cheque for $137,165.53 to members of the United Way of B.C. and HealthPartners last Tuesday to conclude the 2024 National Defence Workplace Charitable Campaign. A heartwarming occasion of community spirit, the cheque presentation demonstrated [...]

Join us on March 6th from 10am to 2pm at the Naden Athletic Centre for our annual MARPAC Health & Wellness Expo! With over 40 vendor booths, a free BBQ lunch, giveaways, wellness demos, and more, this is an event you do not want to miss!

[caption id="attachment_37097" align="aligncenter" width="597"] Commodore David Mazur (Left), Commander Canadian Fleet Pacific and Chief Petty Officer 1st Class David Bisal, Fleet Chief, congratulate Sailor 1st Class Chloe Schriemer on becoming the Sailor of the Quarter. Photo provided.[/caption] Simon Gonsalves MARPAC Public Affairs  —  Sailor First Class (S1) Chloe Schriemer is shining bright at the Royal Canadian Navy’s new Advanced Naval Capabilities Unit (ANCU). Due to her outstanding efforts, she has been awarded Sailor of the Quarter (SOQ) for the months of October to December. “I was honoured to receive the Sailor of the Quarter,” says SI Schriemer. “I am very fortunate to work at a unit like ANCU. Since my first day on the Maritime Tactical Coxswain (MTC) Course until now, I’ve had the privilege of strong mentorship and great coworkers. The other MTCs and the [Maritime Technical Operators] are incredible people to work with. It’s easy to show up and put in your best effort when you’re working alongside people who are great at what they do.” Known for her reliability, professionalism, and commitment, S1 Schriemer has proven herself to be an invaluable asset to her unit as the MTC. Her leadership extends beyond training, as she supports ANCU and the fleet with small boat operations and taskings, ensuring seamless execution under tight timelines and adverse conditions. “Its no surprise to the team and myself that S1 Schriemer received SOQ as she always exemplifies the highest standards of leadership and professionalism required of a sailor within the Royal Canadian Navy,” says Petty Officer First Class (PO1) Andrew Astles, her supervisor. “Her outstanding ability to lead the Maritime Tactical Coxswains with confidence and precision is a testament to her exceptional skill set, unwavering commitment, and dedication to duty.”   Reflecting the Royal Canadian Naval ethos both on and off duty, S1...

[caption id="attachment_37091" align="aligncenter" width="597"] The Naden Band of the Royal Canadian Navy perform alongside Katy Perry during the opening ceremony of the Invictus Games 2025 at BC Place, Vancouver, B.C. on Feb. 8. Photo: Corporal Conor R.G. Munn, Canadian Armed Forces Imagery Technician[/caption] The Naden Band performs with Katy Perry at the 2025 Invictus Games Master Sailor Zack Everett The Naden Band of the Royal Canadian Navy  —  The Naden Band experienced some pop stardom last month at the Invictus Games 2025. While performing throughout the week-long event in Vancouver, the opening ceremony on Feb. 8 is something they will not soon forget. “Our band is no stranger to being involved in large ceremonies, but this was on another level,” says Chief Petty Officer 2nd Class (CPO2) Brayden Wise, Unit Chief and Drum Major. “The size of the crowd, the level of talent involved, and the purpose behind it being so important.” The Invictus Games, founded by the Duke of Sussex, are an international sporting competition for ill and injured military members or veterans. The mission of the Games is to honour the people who have come face-to-face with the reality of sacrificing for their country, using the power of sports to help them on their journey of recovery. The Naden Band joined forces with the Royal Canadian Artillery Band from Edmonton and the local reserve band from 15th Field Regiment, an opportunity to join forces with more than the usual 35 band members. The true highlight for every musician this time was working with pop-icon Katy Perry. The grand finale of the opening ceremony involved Katy Perry emerging from within the band, marching right along with them to her hit song, Roar. Breaking into a jog as the bands split in two, her outfit changed colour like a chameleon. Dancers...

[caption id="attachment_37062" align="aligncenter" width="597"] Members of Maritime Forces Pacific stand at attention as part of the installation for the Honourable Wendy Lisogar-Cocchia as Lieutenant Governor of B.C. Photos: Sailor 3rd Class Jordan Schilstra.[/caption] Lookout Staff  —  On Jan. 30, a ceremonial Guard of Honour comprising of 50 members of Maritime Forces Pacific (MARPAC) were on parade to recognize the official installation of the Honourable Wendy Lisogar-Cocchia as Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia.  The Naden Band of the Royal Canadian Navy and an artillery saluting battery from 5th BC Field Regiment Royal Canadian Artillery also participated in the installation. The ceremony began with a 15-gun Viceregal Salute when Her Honour, Lieutenant-Governor Wendy Lisogar-Cocchia, arrived to meet Premier David Eby on the steps of the Legislature Building. Leading the parade were Lieutenant-Commander Marjorie Gaulin-Riffou, Guard Commander, Chief Petty Officer 2nd Class Jerome Pruneau, Guard Chief, Lieutenant (Navy) Luc Steele, Flag Party Commander, Lieutenant (Navy) Benjamin Van Slyke, Director of Music, Lieutenant (Navy) Benjamin Courchene, Guard Officer, and Lieutenant (Navy) Douglas Winter, Guard Officer. The Guard of Honour is traditionally paraded on formal occasions when the Monarch or Viceregal representatives, including The Lieutenant-Governor, are present in the Legislative Assembly.   [caption id="attachment_37064" align="aligncenter" width="597"] The Naden Band of the Royal Canadian Navy participates in the installation ceremony of Lieutenant-Governor Wendy Lisogar-Cocchia in front of the Legislature Building in Victoria.[/caption]   [caption id="attachment_37063" align="aligncenter" width="598"] The Honourable Wendy Lisogar-Cocchia greets members of the Royal Canadian Navy on parade for her installation as Lieutenant Governor of B.C.[/caption]

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

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

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

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

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

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

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