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[caption id="attachment_14595" align="alignnone" width="400"] Photo by MAPAC Imaging[/caption]DND ~HMCS Edmonton assisted the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) in the disruption of three separate illicit drug shipments from Nov. 15 to 18, in international waters off the Pacific Coast of Central America. The combined weight of the disrupted drug shipments, confirmed to be cocaine by the USCG, was an estimated 2,120 kg.In each instance, the collaborative efforts of the Royal Canadian Navy, USCG Law Enforcement Detachments (LEDET), USCG cutters, and USCG aircraft led to the disruptions. Most of the cocaine from each disruption was recovered from the ocean after being jettisoned by suspected smugglers in panga-style fishing vessels. In all cases, a USCG aircraft provided observation and vectoring information to teams deployed in rigid-hulled inflatable boats, and USCG cutters served to house and transport the suspected smugglers who were apprehended.“Edmonton’s interceptions this week are the result of the crew’s focused training in advance of deployment and tireless effort while deployed,” said Lieutenant-Commander Lucas Kenward, Commanding Officer HMCS Edmonton. “I am incredibly proud of their efforts to date. Edmonton has demonstrated the Canadian Armed Forces’ ability to communicate, share information, and seamlessly integrate with the maritime patrol aircraft and surface units of our USCG and USN allies to combat narcotics trafficking in the Eastern Pacific.”In total, 32 bales of cocaine were recovered during three disruptions, weighing an estimated 1,510 kg, while an estimated 610 kg of cocaine were lost to sea despite an extensive search. A total of seven suspected smugglers were also apprehended by the USCG.In the Nov. 15 incident, a total of one bale of cocaine weighing an estimated 40 kg was recovered from the ocean, with an estimated 610 kg lost to sea, despite a 10-hour search by HMCS Edmonton. A panga-style fishing vessel was boarded by a USCG LEDET...

[caption id="attachment_14579" align="alignnone" width="250"] Colonel Elizabeth Lawrie Smellie. CWM 20000105-054 Beaverbrook Collection of War Art Canadian War Museum[/caption]Lynn Capuano, Army Public Affairs ~In 1944, Colonel Elizabeth Lawrie (Beth) Smellie became the first woman to reach the rank of colonel in the Canadian Army, a high point in a truly remarkable career with many accomplishments in the field of both military and public health care.Col Smellie entered the First World War as a nursing sister, worked tirelessly between the wars on public health matters, and by the close of the Second World War she was Matron-in-Chief of Nursing for the entire Canadian Army. She was described as a genius of organization, efficient, disciplined and always a “lady” by those with whom she served.Born in 1884 in Port Arthur, Ontario (now part of Thunder Bay, Ontario), Col Smellie was the daughter of a frontier physician who was a chief surgeon for the Canadian Pacific Railway as it was being built, and who was also a businessman and politician.Col Smellie’s desire to become a nurse was strongly influenced by her father’s vocation and the illnesses and deaths of two siblings. Despite her father’s discouragement, she left home to study nursing at Johns Hopkins Hospital School of Nursing in Baltimore, Maryland. At the age of 25 in 1909, diploma in hand, she returned to Canada to as the night supervisor at McKellar General Hospital in her home town, followed by a stint as a private nurse.First World War serviceWhen the First World War broke out in 1914, Col Smellie was one of the first to be accepted to the Royal Canadian Army Medical Corps as a nursing sister.Nursing sisters were enlisted as officers at the rank of lieutenant, numbering about 3,100 during the First World War. She served in military hospitals in the regions of...

Second Lieutenant Cameron Park,The Canadian Scottish Regiment (Princess Mary’s) ~Under a tall oak tree near a small white church in Comox, British Columbia, a tall pyramid of grey stone stands.The Sandwick Cairn rises from the ground to support a cross as a memorial to fallen Canadian soldiers. It has stood as a quiet sentry of remembrance since November 1922. It is named for the neighbourhood in which it stands; a brass plaque with the names of soldiers from the Comox area who fell in the First World War faces the nearby road.Unveiled by then Governor General Lord Byng of Vimy, the Sandwick Cairn was built as a memorial for Comox residents. It was built from stones brought from the fields in the surrounding farms. Many stones were contributed by families of the fallen.As described by the Vancouver Daily Province at the time, “It is a pyramid of stones gathered from the farms which the lads it commemorates knew and loved so well.”As the community grew, other cenotaphs became the focus of Remembrance Day ceremonies, and the cairn did not receive the same attention it once did.Enter Lt WilkinsonIn 2016, a name on the cairn became an item of special interest to The Canadian Scottish Regiment (Princess Mary’s), an army reserve unit based on Vancouver Island. Victoria Cross winner, Lieutenant Thomas Wilkinson, from Little River near Comox, was listed on the cairn. He was awarded the Victoria Cross posthumously for actions on July 5, 1916, during the Battle of the Somme while serving with the British Army.As the centennial of his award approached, his connection to Canada was explored, and it was discovered that Lieutenant Wilkinson’s military service began with The Canadian Scottish Regiment (Princess Mary’s), then known as the 16th Battalion (Canadian Scottish), Canadian Expeditionary Force.Joining as a private, upon...

Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~Canada Company’s mission to assist veterans in their transition to the civilian workforce has received a $1.1-million boost from the Government of Canada.Minister of Veterans Affairs Kent Hehr made the funding announcement on behalf of the Ministry of Employment, Workforce Development and Labour at the Canada Company’s 2016 National Transition Exchange Conference on Nov. 15 in Ottawa.The funding will be used to create a searchable online database and analytics tool to help former military personnel transition to existing high-demand private sector jobs and compatible educational and skills upgrade programs.“Helping Canada’s veterans find good jobs in the private sector is truly a win-win for everyone involved because veterans get to put their training and hard-earned skills to good use following their release from the military, while Canadian businesses benefit from the unique skills veterans offer,” said Hehr.Canada Company’s  National Transitions Exchange held at Canada’s Aviation and Space Museum brought together more than 250 veterans and their families, and close to 200 corporate employer partners representing 70 different companies. The event featured several Educational Labs in the morning, which included corporate and military guest speakers, and an exclusive Career Connect fair in the afternoon.Canada Company, a Toronto-based non-profit, was established in 2006 with its pledge to “stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the troops for the sacrifices they make every day.” With only a handful of members in its first days, today it boasts over 600 members and has become a growing outreach between the Canadian Armed Forces and the business world.Canada Company President Angela Mondou said the funding announcement by Minister Hehr was “a massive boost” which will assist her group’s efforts to reach out to members on digital programs with new interactive job-search software.“Put simply, the new software operates much like a Match.com [dating service] and is a two-way street for veterans to showcase their skills and unique experience to potential employers, and the corporate world to get information about their employment needs to veterans,” said Mondou.Mondou was a...

[caption id="attachment_14569" align="alignnone" width="400"] Cdr Clive Butler, Commanding Officer HMCS Vancouver, meets New Zealand MP Ron Mark in Kaikoura, New Zealand. Photo by Cpl Amanda McErlich[/caption]Katelyn Moores, MARPAC PA Office ~This year marks the 75th anniversary of the founding of the Royal New Zealand Navy (RNZN). The country organized a number of events throughout the year to mark this milestone and celebrate the service, commitment and sacrifice of the men and women who serve and have served in their naval force.The highlight of these events was to be the International Naval Review in Auckland Harbour from Nov. 17-22. A total of 22 countries, including Canada, planned to be in attendance at the Review to celebrate alongside their Kiwi allies.However, just three days before the start of the festivities, a 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck New Zealand’s South Island, claiming the lives of two people and causing extensive damage to infrastructure in the area. Without hesitation, five nations who were already in the region to attend the Naval Review offered their support to the New Zealand government. Australia, Canada, Japan, the United States and Singapore all contributed to the humanitarian relief effort for the people of New Zealand hit hardest by the powerful earthquake.HMCS Vancouver travelled to the remote area of Kaikoura delivering supplies and helping the community begin to repair and rebuild.If honouring the RNZN’s anniversary alongside their allies and partners can be seen as a way of showcasing the importance of fostering the alliances that help maintain peace and security on the world’s oceans, then the humanitarian response in the wake of New Zealand’s earthquake demonstrates the power of those partnerships in action.In the vast maritime environment, success in times of peace and conflict is closely linked to teamwork and collaboration between partner navies.Modern security challenges, including criminal networks, natural...

[caption id="attachment_14566" align="alignnone" width="400"] LS Christopher Pearson[/caption]Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~A Supply Technician from Base Logistics’ Return Stores is the recipient of a Commander Royal Canadian Navy (CRCN) Commendation for his life-saving revival of a man in downtown Victoria earlier this year.LS Christopher Pearson, 28, is set to accept the award in the near future. The award recognizes Canadian Armed Forces members who go beyond the demand of normal duty with a good deed or activity.For the sailor, his good deed took place April 14, while travelling to work. At the corner of Douglas St. and Yates St. he came across a man who appeared to be unconscious. Upon closer inspection he discovered the man had no pulse and was not breathing. Using recently learned first aid techniques he revived the man while a bystander called 9-1-1.Weeks earlier he had taken his standard St. John’s Ambulance First Aid Training. While the training is mandatory for all Canadian Armed Forces members, LS Pearson says the timing couldn’t have been better for both him and the victim.“I was able to go through everything step-by-step in my mind,” he says.Paramedics and Victoria Police arrived on the scene within 10 minutes and transported the man to hospital.For LS Pearson, the story ended there. Then Nov. 15 he received an unexpected visit from Capt(N) Steve Waddell, Base Commander. After a handshake between the two, the Base Commander told him of the award.“His visit was a complete, but pleasant, surprise; he joked with me and then asked ‘Weren’t you expecting me?’” said LS Pearson.After the presentation the sailor will be able to wear the commendation, which features a silver bar bearing three maple leafs, on his uniform.“I wasn’t expecting any kind of recognition or commendation to come from any of this,” said LS Pearson. “Helping that...

[caption id="attachment_14562" align="alignnone" width="400"] Rear Admiral Art McDonald, Commander Maritime Forces Pacific, and Chief Petty Officer First Class Gilles Grégoire, Formation Chief Petty Officer, ready for the ceremonial puck drop between Adam Brooks, Captain of the Regina Pats, and Ryan Gagnon, Captain of the Victoria Royals, at centre ice.[/caption]The Western Hockey League Major Junior Victoria Royals hockey team held their Canadian Armed Forces Appreciation Night on Nov. 19 at the Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre in a game against the Regina Pats. Special commemorative jerseys worn by the Royals during the game were auctioned off at the end to raise funds for the Poppy Fund, Military Family Resource Centre (MFRC), and Victoria Royals Education & Scholarship Fund.

[caption id="attachment_14555" align="alignnone" width="400"] Lisa deWit poses for a photo with RAdm William Truelove, Commander of the Canadian Defence Liaison Staff (Washington) and Canadian Defence Attache, following her address at the Girls Can Do Event.[/caption]Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~Lisa deWit got an uplifting surprise in the form of long, loud applause following her speech on empowering women at the Girls Can Do event held in Washington, D.C.’s historic Warner Theatre.“I remember the cheers from the audience roared right back on stage at me, letting me know those in attendance genuinely appreciated my message,” said deWit, from Formation Review. “After the presentation, during a meet-and-greet, there were hugs and kisses from total strangers, people wanting photos, and I even had requests for autographs.”Girls Can Do is a U.S.-based non-profit that hosts events internationally with an emphasis on inspiring girls to be possibility thinkers. The event allows young women to engage, connect and share their struggles and accomplishments with others.During deWit’s 10-minute oration, she talked about growing up on Wet’suwet’en First Nations territory in northern B.C.  She emphasized the importance of how young women can “eliminate fear of perceived failure” in their lives and begin to see themselves as “matriarchs in training.”deWit, also the  Civilian Regional Co-Chair for the Defence Aboriginal Advisory Group, was the only Canadian invited to speak at the event, which included Krishanti Vignarajah, Policy Director for First Lady Michelle Obama; hip-hop recording artist and former bassist for Beyoncé, Divinity Roxx; and the founder and designer of the anti-bullying software application Sit With Us, 16-year-old Natalie Hampton.deWit extended a special invitation to former Maritime Forces Pacific commander Rear-Admiral Bill Truelove, now Commander of the Canadian Defence Liaison Staff (Washington) and Canadian Defence Attaché, and his wife Brenda Truelove. RAdm Truelove, who worked with deWit and the DAAG for several years before his departure from Esquimalt in 2015, described her address as “passionate and inspirational” and congratulated her afterwards.“Dressed in First Nations regalia with brilliant red colours, Lisa confidently took...

Lt(N) Ellie Aminaie, HMCS Ottawa ~Three weeks ago, family members and friends of the crew of HMCS Ottawa were invited to experience a day in the life of a sailor at sea.The day sail was well-attended by 200 friends and family members, including Honorary Captain Derek Turner who is a notable Second World War veteran.During this rare opportunity, guests experienced the ship manoeuvring at high speeds, a man overboard recovery, a diver deployment and recovery by a CH-124 Sea King helicopter, and an overall tour with stations throughout the ship.Upon exiting the harbour, the Captain brought the ship to full speed ahead on both gas turbines and guests were urged to hold on to something as the ship accelerated quickly through the water. The ship’s rudder was then moved from 30 degrees to port and over to 30 degrees to starboard in order to demonstrate the turning radius of the ship, and how much the ship heels over during high speed manoeuvres.Guests also experienced how quickly the ship stops when full speed astern is ordered on both engines.Upon completion of the high speed manoeuvring serial, the ship’s training dummy Oscar was thrown in the ocean and the ship’s rescue stations organization closed up to rescue him. The ship’s zodiac was launched and Oscar was quickly brought back onboard for medical care.The ship’s divers had an opportunity to display their training and skills through a helicopter deployment demonstration where they jumped off a CH-124 Sea King into the frigid waters of Constance Bank wearing their full diver gear, and were recovered by the helicopter moments later.Another engaging aspect of the day sail was the shipboard tour stations throughout the ship. While touring the ship, guests were given a chance to don bunker gear worn by firefighters, and handle a charged firefighting...

[caption id="attachment_14500" align="alignnone" width="400"] LS Sydney Huyghe[/caption]Katelyn Moores, MARPAC PA ~When a sailor from HMCS Chippawa spoke at a high school in Winnipeg three years ago about life in the naval reserves, one student saw a way to make some money over the summer to help pay for university.Fast forward three years, and that student, now LS Sydney Huyghe, is thousands of nautical miles away from home on a great adventure with HMCS Vancouver.Vancouver is on WestPloy 16, which is an opportunity for the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) to foster and sustain cooperative relationships with partner navies in the Asia-Pacific.As a naval communicator, LS Huyghe is responsible for establishing and maintaining communications with national and allied networks, an essential element of mission coordination. It is also her department’s responsibility to advise the ship’s command on tactical signalling and ship maneuvering, as well as encoding and decoding signals.“Sailing in Vancouver is a huge opportunity for me to sail and complete some of my training package,” she says. “It is also an incredible opportunity to travel to some amazing places.”Since joining the warship in September, she has visited Singapore, Vietnam, Australia and New Zealand. Before she returns home in December, she will also visit Fiji and Hawaii. Not bad for her first deployment.Although she’s been adjusting well to life at sea, she admits it can be challenging. Shift work leaves limited time for sleep. She says it’s the support of her crew mates that has helped her stay positive and meet the demands of a busy sailing schedule.Work and play is also mixed with charitable activities. In Singapore she joined 20 other crew members at a school at the Movement for the Intellectually Disabled of Singapore, playing and singing with students. In Vietnam, she helped paint buildings at a shelter for homeless...

[caption id="attachment_14496" align="alignnone" width="200"] Order of Military Merit[/caption]Bart Armstrong, canadianmedalofhonor.com ~Last week the best of the best arrived at Rideau Hall in Ottawa to be recognized and awarded for their services to the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF), Canada, and the world. There were 46 in all, men and women, both commissioned and non-commissioned, and coming from Newfoundland across to British Columbia.Only one tenth of one per cent of the total population of the CAF gets the honour to make that trip. However, these members stood in front of their Commander in Chief, the Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor General of Canada on Nov. 10.He presented each with the Order of Military Merit, each being recognized for meritorious service and dedication to duty. Most were inducted into the Order for the first time, but eight recipients were promoted from the Member level to that of Officer. Two received an even higher promotion, to that of Commander. Each would thus be authorized to use the Post Nominal initials of MMM, OMM or CMM, depending on ranking in the Order.MARPAC members know the name Rear Admiral William Truelove. His command here on the West Coast came to an end a few years ago when a new posting took him to the Canadian Embassy at Washington, D.C., where he now commands the Canadian Defence Liaison Staff. His promotion within the Order now has him wearing the Order of Military Merit insignia with the rank of Commander around his neck.Fleet School’s CPO2 Dave McAlpine was also honoured with induction into the Order at the Member level, as was CPO2 Dave Wilson from Sea Training (Pacific.)“You are dedicated professionals who inspire others to achieve excellence in all you do. Never underestimate the power of your example no matter what your particular role; you are all leaders,...

[caption id="attachment_14493" align="alignnone" width="400"] Brad Gable (center right), the Director of Contract Sales for Sysco, presents a cheque for $750 to the Commander of MARPAC/JTF (P), Rear Admiral Art McDonald (left), Base Administrative Officer Commander Jeanne Lessard (center left), and Base Commander Captain (Navy) Steven Waddell (right), during the National Defence Workplace Charitable Campaign fundraising Pancake Breakfast at the Chief’s & Petty Officers’ Mess, Nov. 16. Photos by MCpl Brent Kenny, MARPAC Imaging Services[/caption]Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~The Royal Canadian Legion’s mission statement of “acting in service to Canada’s communities” is now coming in loud and clear on the new sound system at Rockheights Middle School.Over $6,300 in charitable funding from the Royal Canadian Legion’s Esquimalt Dockyard Branch #172 was used to purchase a new state-of-the-art sound system for the Esquimalt public school’s gymnasium and auditorium.During a Nov. 2 ceremony students and staff thanked Branch #172 Manager Doug Grant and 1st Vice President Jim MacMillan-Murphy for the donation, and gave a demonstration of the new system and its wireless microphone and hands-free blue tooth capabilities.“It makes me proud to be a principal at a school in Esquimalt where we know we can come together to build positive relationships like this one in our community,” said Principal Maryanne Trofimuk.The new sound system will be used to play music during concerts for its music program, for gym classes and dances, and as a public address system when the school hosts assemblies, guest speakers, parent-student orientation, and sporting events.Trofimuk and Grade 7 teacher Sanjiv Galhon said the previous sound system was antiquated and sounded terrible. It used a plug-in microphone that would constantly cut out and deliver ear-wrenching feedback noises. Galhon who teaches physical education classes at the school says the Legion’s generosity has helped the school build a new alliance.“Our students have just...

Capt Graeme Kaine, 39 CBG Public Affairs ~Recipients of the Memorial Cross who live in British Columbia now have a new commemorative licence plate.At a ceremony, held at the Beatty Street Drill Hall in Vancouver on Nov.10, Ron McCully was the first Memorial Cross recipient to receive the special plate.“This new licence plate is meaningful for my family, as this pays tribute to my son, Corporal Matthew McCully,” he said. “Thank you to the B.C. government and ICBC for developing and producing this new licence plate for those of us who have lost a loved one in the line of duty.”The Memorial Cross is an award that has been granted since 1919 to loved ones of Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) personnel who have died in service or whose death was attributed to their service. It is granted by the Government of Canada and is often referred to as the Silver Cross. In the past, it had only been given to mothers and widows, but recent changes now allow CAF personnel to designate up to three Memorial Cross recipients.Besides British Columbia, Saskatchewan is the only other province that currently offers a Memorial Cross plate.“The Canadian Armed Forces are delighted and humbled that the Government of British Columbia has decided to honour those who have died as a result of their military service to Canada, and the sacrifice of their loved ones who were left behind in such a meaningful way,” said Rear Admiral Art McDonald, Commander Maritime Forces Pacific. “This Memorial Cross licence plate will be a daily reminder of the sacrifices members of the Canadian Armed Forces and their families make for their country, and I welcome this thoughtful initiative.”The licence plate features purple letters on a white background, with the Memorial Cross symbol on the left and the Canadian...

[caption id="attachment_14487" align="alignnone" width="400"] HMCS Summerside conducts Unmanned Aircraft System trials at sea, on Oct. 25. Photo by Master Seaman Ronnie Kinnie, Formation Imaging Services Halifax[/caption]DND ~Historically, the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) has been actively pursuing, on a very modest and experimental basis, a number of remote technology applications in each of the three maritime domains: air, surface, and sub-surface.In terms of the undersea domain, the navy has operated everything from side scan sonars to remotely operated vehicles, and continues to actively participate in the development of these technologies.The RCN was also active in the 1990s in developing remotely controlled surface targets and those investments are now reaping real benefits for Canadian industry.In recent years, the RCN had great success operating the Scan Eagle from deployed frigates by leveraging a contractual mechanism that was put in place by the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) to support our forces in Afghanistan.Between 2012 and 2014, the combined organic intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capability resident in Halifax-class frigates along with the embarked Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) allowed the RCN to play a prominent role in expeditionary operations. Through cueing, detection, surveillance, and reporting from the shipborne Scan Eagle UAS, over nine metric tons of illegal drugs were intercepted by HMC Ships Charlottetown, Toronto, and Regina.It proved to be an incredibly versatile and important extension of the ship’s sensors and embarked aircraft. It also allowed the RCN to learn valuable lessons on how to employ this capability, how to integrate into the maritime and littoral battle space, and how to operate in conjunction with an embarked maritime helicopter. It is a great force multiplier for a single ship or for a Naval Task Group.Disruptive TechnologyAs technologies mature and evolve, the RCN is anticipating the gradual introduction of remotely piloted vehicles in all three maritime dimensions....

[caption id="attachment_14484" align="alignnone" width="400"] Commander Clive Butler, Commanding Officer of HMCS Vancouver, speaks with Flight-Lieutenant Glen Blay in Kaikoura, New Zealand on Nov. 17 before a meeting with other nations to determine how to assist New Zealanders and Kaikoura following the Nov. 14 massive earthquake. Photo by LS Sergej Krivenka, HMCS Vancouver[/caption]DND ~HMCS Vancouver is assisting the people of New Zealand affected by the 7.8 magnitude earthquake that struck the South Island on Nov. 14.Vancouver was in the vicinity of Auckland, NZ, at the time of the earthquake preparing for a goodwill visit to celebrate the 75th anniversary of New Zealand’s Naval Forces with other allied naval forces.The ship, with its embarked CH-124 Sea King helicopter and air detachment, will be a key asset in evacuating persons from the affected area, and assisting in the transport of emergency supplies into the area as the majority of roads and rail lines have been severed.“HMCS Vancouver’s rapid shift from training and naval operations to assisting earthquake victims in New Zealand is testament to the professionalism and capabilities of the Royal Canadian Navy,” said General Jonathan Vance, Chief of the Defence Staff.In the evening of Nov. 14 Vancouver began transiting towards the area worst affected as part of a multinational Task Group of warships. The ship arrived last Thursday off the coastal town of Kaikoura, South Island, ready to commence operations.Vancouver will conduct emergency humanitarian operations in order to minimize human suffering. The ship carries basic Humanitarian Assistance Disaster Relief supplies onboard that may be used in post-disaster efforts if needed. These basic supplies include first aid kits, tents, generators, blankets, chainsaws and hand tools. The ship’s company stands ready to support the operation as it develops.

[caption id="attachment_14422" align="alignnone" width="400"] Lieutenant-Commander Mike Baker, legal advisor to HMCS Charlottetown command team.[/caption]Lt(N) Benoit Plante, Maritime Task Force Public Affairs Officer ~As HMCS Charlottetown prepares to transit the Strait of Gibraltar, the Bridge is getting crowded. There are the usual personnel on the Bridge, such as the Helmsman, the Naval Communicator and the Officer of the Watch.More surprisingly, there is the legal advisor to the Operation Reassurance Maritime Task Force, Lieutenant-Commander Mike Baker.The legal advisor is a Canadian Armed Forces Legal Officer deployed with the ship during Operation Reassurance. He provides legal advice on operational, international, and administrative law, military justice, and all other legal matters of particular interest to the Commander.“When we are transiting the Strait of Gibraltar, for example, the ship is passing through either Spanish or Moroccan territorial waters,” explains LCdr Baker. “So part of my job is to provide advice to the Commanding Officer on the implications of passing in those waters, and to help him determine what types of activities Charlottetown can and cannot do at any given time.”As Charlottetown is transiting back into the Mediterranean Sea from the Atlantic to continue with Operation Reassurance, LCdr Baker says “from a law of the sea perspective, the Mediterranean Sea is a complex legal environment, in part due to its long history and the many different states that surround it.”Therefore, he needs to advise the Commanding Officer on the general provisions of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, which is the primary reference for understanding maritime law. Moreover, ships operating in the Mediterranean Sea need to understand that passage between it and the Black Sea is governed by the Montreux Convention, that the Strait of Messina represents an exception to the rules about international straits, and that the countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea...

[caption id="attachment_14419" align="alignnone" width="400"] CH148 Cyclone crews conduct an Operational Test and Evaluation with HMCS Montréal, the first ship to support a Helicopter Test and Evaluation Facility Detachment.[/caption]Captain Peter Ryan, 12 Wing Shearwater ~A CH148 Cyclone helicopter from 12 Wing Shearwater, N.S., recently conducted its first anti-submarine warfare (ASW) event with submarine HMCS Windsor off the coast of Nova Scotia.The exercise was linked to an ongoing Operational Test and Evaluation being conducted by the Helicopter Test and Evaluation Facility (HOTEF) at 12 Wing Shearwater.Anti-submarine warfare is a component of underwater warfare that employs surface warships, aircraft and other submarines to find, track and deter, damage or destroy enemy submarines.This was the first time a Cyclone has engaged in such activity, representing an important milestone in the evolution of this new aircraft that provides wings for the fleet, and state-of-the-art air power for the Royal Canadian Air Force.According to Major Erik Weigelin, a pilot with Helicopter Test and Evaluation Facility, the Cyclone’s sonobuoy processing system was tested to detect and track Windsor using passive sonobuoys.“This system allows us to track submarines without making any active noise, thereby denying the submarine knowledge of the helicopter’s location or potentially even the fact that they are being tracked at all. Anti-submarine warfare by use of sonobuoys can be very challenging, but having Windsor as a target allowed the crews to hone our equipment and develop a solid baseline of performance for the tracking of real submarine targets,” said Maj Weigelin.When Windsor was otherwise tasked, CH148 crews employed Expendable Mobile Anti-submarine Warfare Training Targets to simulate submarine movements and noise patterns, which allowed Helicopter Test and Evaluation Facility crews to further develop those tactical procedures that will be used by operational crews following CH148 release to service.“Accurate and effective initial equipment settings, in combination with...

[caption id="attachment_14416" align="alignnone" width="400"] Cmdre Marta Mulkins[/caption]Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~When the Commander of Canada’s Naval Reserves, Commodore Marta Mulkins and her colleagues gathered for an informal breakfast on Persons Day in Ottawa last month, they reflected on the accomplishments of women in the Canadian Armed Forces.Joining her at the table were several high-ranking female military officers, including Lieutenant-General Christine Whitecross, Major General Tammy Harris, Brigadier General Lise Bourgon, as well as Commissioner Jody Thomas of the Canadian Coast Guard.Patricia Hadju, Canada’s Federal Minster for the Status of Women, also dropped by to join them.“We decided to have an informal gathering, so it was very inspiring that she dropped by to recognize the success of women in the military,” says Cmdre Mulkins. “We are constantly looking forward, but it is nice for a moment to recognize where we have been and our accomplishments.”One such accomplishment is Persons Day - Oct. 18, 1929, the day when Lord Sankey, Lord Chancellor of Great Britain, announced the decision of the five lords that women were persons. The decision forced the Canadian federal government to allow women to be appointed to the Senate or to any public office in the land. This decision paved the way for women, including those at the breakfast table.Thirty-one years ago Cmdre Mulkins joined the Naval Reserves; as the years passed by the thought of reaching one of the highest ranks was not in her sites. But like her male counterparts, good, hard work paid off with promotion after promotion.“I would say the military and the Canadian government have been ahead of the curve in both pay equity and opening opportunities to women many years ago, and helped set the tone for advancement in the rest of society,” she says. “The entire process has taught us a valuable lesson,...

[caption id="attachment_14413" align="alignnone" width="400"] Lieutenant-Commander Corey Gleason, Rear-Admiral John Newton and Captain (Navy) Michael Davie in Norway during staff talks.[/caption]Darlene Blakeley, Navy Public Affairs Ottawa ~The commanding officer of the Royal Canadian Navy’s (RCN) first Arctic Offshore Patrol Vessel has already been chosen, and work has begun to ensure everything is ready when HMCS Harry DeWolf is delivered in 2018.Lieutenant-Commander Corey Gleason, along with a small preliminary crew, are preparing for the new vessel, one of six ice-capable offshore patrol ships that will conduct sovereignty and surveillance operations in Canada’s ocean areas of interest, including in the Arctic.“It’s truly exciting to have this role as first commanding officer,” says LCdr Gleason. “The first ship in its class is always a lot of work and there’s a long road ahead – about five years between shore office work and the first operational cruise for the lead ship. We get the opportunity to pave the way for everyone else.”This is essential work as the navy prepares for a busy future in Canada’s North, says Rear-Admiral John Newton, Commander Maritime Forces Atlantic.“We take note of the significant changes being felt in the environment, industry, commerce, tourism, society and culture. It is a timely development that the RCN will soon take delivery of the first Arctic Offshore Patrol Vessel.”He adds that the pending arrival of these vessels inspires the RCN to undertake bolder activities in all of Canada’s ocean areas. This past summer, maritime coastal defence vessel HMCS Moncton patrolled in Hudson Bay, while its sister ship HMCS Shawinigan was far west along the Northwest Passage, creating new learning experiences for sailors in the fleet.“For several years now our crews have been increasingly busy familiarizing themselves with Arctic waterways and the communities that struggle with shifting economies, climate, and human activities,” says RAdm Newton. “We...

Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~The crew of HMCS Yellowknife will be heading to B.C.’s north coast later this month to investigate reports of submerged Cold-War era ordnance.The ordnance is believed to be part of a B4 weapon jettisoned by a U.S. B-36 aircraft that crashed in the vicinity of Prince Rupert on Feb. 13, 1950.  The object was recently discovered by a diver who had been searching for sea cucumbers off the shores of Pitt Island, located approximately 80 kilometres south of Prince Rupert. The diver reported the details of his find to the RCMP and the Canadian Armed Forces.“Discussions with our NORTHCOM Liaison Officer have provided us with information on the disposition of the weapon at the time of the jettison and crash, including verifying that there was no radioactive material in the weapon during the failed test flight in February 1950,” said Commander Michele Tessier, Commander Coastal Forces, who indicated the object’s core likely contained lead.According to accounts by author Dirk Septer in his book Lost Nuke: The Last Flight of Bomber 075, five crew members were killed in the crash of the B-36 and 12 were rescued after an engine fire, believed to be caused by ice buildup on the wings, erupted on the plane. The crew dumped the ordnance in the ocean and then the pilot set the plane on auto pilot targeting it to crash into a remote area near Mount Kologe before he and the crew bailed out of the plane. The decision by the pilot to drop the ordnance in the ocean was made because the crew were uncertain of their proximity to populated areas and how far the plane could travel being weighted down.During their upcoming sailing program, Yellowknife will embark the civilian diver who made the find and proceed to the...

[caption id="attachment_14406" align="alignnone" width="400"] A Marine Engineering Systems Operator cleans an oil filter from a diesel alternator.[/caption]Capt Graeme Kaine, 39 CBG Public Affairs ~The Government of British Columbia announced Oct. 27 that they have expanded job-protected leave for Canadian military reserve forces in B.C. to cover leave for military training.The leave expansion was announced by Premier Christy Clark at Canadian Forces Base Comox on Vancouver Island, and by Shirley Bond, Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training, and Minister Responsible for Labour at HMCS Discovery, the Royal Canadian Naval Reserve base on Deadman’s Island in Stanley Park, Vancouver.Bond was joined in Vancouver by Brigadier Genernal Rob Roy MacKenzie, Chief of Staff Reserves, Canadian Forces; Colonel Dave Awalt, Commander 39 Canadian Brigade Group; Lyall Knott, QC, B.C. Chair, Canadian Forces Liaison Council, Department of National Defence; and other military reserve forces representatives.“I can’t emphasize enough how important employer support is to our Reservists,” said BGen MacKenzie. “It directly contributes to the operational readiness of the Canadian Armed Forces by helping ensure we have skilled members always available for duty.”This change will allow reservists unpaid leave from their civilian jobs for up to 20 days per year for training activities.A reservist must provide at least four weeks of notice to his/her employer. This matches the general notice requirement that already applies to reservists going on leave for active duty.The up to 20 days for training leave is per calendar year, and does not have to be consecutive.This change to expand leave for military training activities for reservists is effective immediately.“The extension of job protection for reservists, for necessary training, is a significant step in strengthening the Reserves and will contribute greatly to the operational readiness of the Canadian Armed Forces Reserve,” said Col Awalt. “As the Brigade commander for the Army Reserve in...

[caption id="attachment_14403" align="alignnone" width="400"] Fourteen bales of cocaine weighing an estimated 700 kilograms rest on the sweep deck of HMCS Brandon after being jettisoned by a suspected smuggling vessel, a small fishing boat known as a panga, off the Pacific coast of Central America during Operation Caribbe on Nov. 5. Photo by U.S. Coast Guard[/caption]DND ~HMCS Brandon, in cooperation with the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG), seized an estimated 700 kilograms of cocaine in international waters off the Pacific Coast of Central America on Nov. 5.The cocaine, worth an estimated $28 million (USD), was recovered from the ocean after being jettisoned by suspected smugglers in a panga-style fishing vessel that had been spotted by a USCG HC-130J aircraft patrolling the region.Brandon launched two rigid-hulled inflatable boats (RHIB) with USCG law enforcement teams onboard to pursue the vessel and secure the 14 jettisoned bales.“This latest seizure serves not only as a testament to the dedication and hard work by the crew of HMCS Brandon and the U.S. Coast Guard law enforcement detachment, but to their ability to work in concert,” said Lieutenant-Commander Jolene Lisi, Brandon’s Commanding Officer. “Our efforts, both leading into this operation, and on the operation itself, have led to this interdiction, which ultimately means fewer drugs reaching our shores. I am incredibly proud of my team.”Brandon’s RHIB was unable to apprehend the suspected panga vessel.Since February 2016, the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) have seized or disrupted a total of approximately 3,630 kg of cocaine and 1,520 kg of marijuana.Operation Caribbe is Canada’s participation in the multinational campaign against illicit trafficking by transnational organized crime in the Caribbean Sea and the East Pacific Ocean.Joint Interagency Task Force South, a subordinate command of United States Southern Command, oversees the detection and monitoring of illicit traffickers and assists US and multinational law...

[caption id="attachment_14375" align="alignnone" width="400"] Master Seaman Brett Poulin enjoys a moment in Parliament.[/caption]Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~MS Brett Poulin was one of three sailors from CFB Esquimalt honoured with the Exceptional Sailor Award during Navy Day celebrations on Parliament Hill.Lt(N) Krisztina Rekeszki, the Operations Officer in Maritime Forces Pacific’s Joint Logistics Operation Centre, and CPO2 Andre Aubry,  Ship Service Officer with Fleet Maintenance Facility, also received scrolls from Senator Terry Mercer and were honoured for their service.MS Poulin, who works as a naval communicator, Lt(N) Rekeszki, and CPO2 Andre Aubry were among a larger group of seven Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) sailors and three Canadian Coast Guard (CCG) personnel from across Canada recognized in the Oct. 25 ceremony in the Red Chamber of the Senate of Canada.“It was an amazing experience, definitely the highlight of my career, and I am truly honoured to be selected for this special award,” said MS Poulin. “It feels great and gave me a sense of pride and appreciation for my hard work and dedication. There have been a lot of long hours and days to get me the point where I am.”With 12 years of service in the RCN, MS Poulin has worked as an IT (Internet Technology) support worker and was recognized for his efforts in trouble shooting computer issues aboard RCN vessels, his role as Unit Security Supervisor, helping oversee the largest removable media account in CFB Esquimalt, and participating in community outreach programs such as Yukon Sour Days in Whitehorse where he helped educate the public about the navy's role and responsibilities.“The whole team were thrilled that he was chosen as a recipient of the award and the office is now inundated by visitors wanting to congratulate him,” said Base Information Services (BIS) Commanding Officer, Cdr Byron Derby. “MS Poulin is...

[caption id="attachment_14371" align="alignnone" width="400"] Dr. James Boutilier, Special Advisor on Asia and the Pacific, MARPAC, has been named the 26th recipient of the Vimy Award.[/caption]Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~Dr. James Boutilier, Maritime Forces Pacific’s (MARPAC) Special Advisor on Asia and the Pacific, has been named the 26th recipient of the Vimy Award for 2016.The annual award presented by the Conference of Defence Associations Institute in Ottawa recognizes one prominent Canadian who has made outstanding contributions toward the security and defence of Canada, and the preservation of democratic values.The award was presented to Dr. Boutilier at a gala reception dinner at the Canadian War Museum in Ottawa on Nov. 4.“I was stunned, humbled and flattered to hear the news that it would be me,” said Dr. Boutilier.“The previous recipients were, and are, an illustrious band of brothers, and I hope I can live up to their high standards.”Former Prime Minister of Canada Joe Clark received the inaugural Vimy Ridge Award in 1991 and other winners have included former Governor General of Canada Adrienne Clarkson (2010), Major-General Jonathan Vance (2011), General Rick Hillier (2008), and Honorary Colonel Blake Goldring (2014), who dedicated the award to the memory of Warrant Officer Patrice Vincent and Corporal Nathan Cirillo.A congratulatory letter from RAdm Art McDonald, Commander of MARPAC, spoke glowingly about Dr. Boutilier’s worthiness for the award, noting he was the “driving force behind the Canadian Armed Forces/Royal Canadian Navy's (CAF/RCN’s) Pacific awareness” and “the incredibly appropriate [person] to be recognized and celebrated.”Captain(N) Steve Jorgensen, MARPAC Chief of Staff for Operations and Planning, noted Dr. Boutilier’s expertise in the Asia Pacific region has been sought after for over a half a century. He describes him as an expert advisor for MARPAC, and the entire Royal Canadian Navy (RCN), and Canadian Armed Forces as a whole.“He has been a constant voice about our attention in the Pacific,” says Capt(N) Jorgensen. “If someone in Ottawa at the policy level has a question on Asia Pacific they will...

[caption id="attachment_14367" align="alignnone" width="500"] The Class of 1941 at Royal Roads Military College in Colwood included young Royal Canadian Naval Volunteer Reserve Russell McConnell, who died in a German U-Boat attack in 1942 in the St. Lawrence River.[/caption]Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~A new documentary created by Royal Roads University professor Geoffrey Bird explores the stories of those places across Canada related to the the Second World War.The newly released film, his second of a two-part series, War Memories across Canada: Sites of the Second World War made its debut in a one-time engagement at the Vic Theatre on Oct. 11.Funded by Heritage Canada, Parks Canada and Royal Roads University, the documentary comprises 27 short stories that explores both soldiers’ and civilians’ personal attachments to war monuments and historical sites across the nation.“We are at a point in time where the witnesses to the Second World War are passing on and we are trying to get their stories now,” says Bird. “Otherwise, we rely on others to recount the story of what happened, what we can call ‘guardians of remembrance’.”Raised in Victoria, the former naval reservist started his service with HMCS Malahat, and worked as a reservist between 1984 and 1992.He now heads Royal Roads’ Tourism Management graduate program as an Associate Professor. Bird first realized the power of standing in the footsteps of those who fought while he worked at Vimy Ridge in France as a tour guide in 1990.“Later in life, as a doctoral student working at battlefields in Normandy, I was interested in the relationship between tourism, remembrance, and the landscapes of war,” says Bird. “The experience people have when they stand at Vimy Ridge, Juno Beach, or the many sites of memory across our nation and the world trigger a strong connection to the past.”His latest war...

[caption id="attachment_14364" align="alignnone" width="400"] An artist’s rendering depicts the design for the Greater Victoria Afghanistan Memorial Project’s monument. Photo Credit GVAMP[/caption]Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~Efforts by a local citizens’ group to erect a highly visible downtown memorial honouring those Canadians that served in Afghanistan are moving forward.The Greater Victoria Afghanistan Memorial Project (GVAMP) was formed two years ago in an effort to recognize the 40,000 Canadians who served in Afghanistan between September 2001 and March 2014, and the 163 that lost their lives.The monument will be located in the downtown core close to Christ Church Cathedral and will be made from 20,000 lb. of granite slabs and measure 11 feet long, eight feet high. It will feature a Canadian soldier reaching out to the outstretched hand of an Afghan child. The cost estimate for the memorial is $177,000.Official fundraising efforts will begin in the New Year; however, the GVAMP had an encouraging sign after a Sept. 28 meeting at the Bay Street Armoury. Four donors from Victoria made significant donations towards the project.“Despite the initial donation there is still plenty of work to do, including working with all levels of government,” says Brigadier-General (Ret'd) Joseph Gollner, President of the GVAMP Society.He served 37 years in the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) before his retirement in 1993. After his retirement, BGen Gollner, while Honorary Colonel of the Regiment Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry (PPCLI), twice visited PPCLI battlegroups in Afghanistan in 2008 and 2010.“Our mission is to create a memorial that will recognize the contribution of all the 40,000 CAF members and public servants that served in Afghanistan and their families. The memorial will also recognize those Afghanistan campaign veterans that continue to suffer with physical and mental wounds. Finally, the memorial will recognize and honour those Canadians that paid the supreme...

[caption id="attachment_14359" align="alignnone" width="400"] SLt Vincent Roy, new Commanding Officer for the Naden Band, with his family.[/caption]SLt Vincent Roy speaks about his past, his new position as Commanding Officer of the Naden Band, and his hopes for the future.The musicians of the Naden Band of the Royal Canadian Navy are preparing for the daily morning rehearsal at the band room by warming up and practicing.At nine on the dot the tuning ‘A’ is given; then all sound ceases.Immediately afterward, SLt Roy strides into the room and assumes his position on the podium.“Good morning!” he beams. “Let’s get into music!”On July 19, command of the Naden Band was passed from Lt(N) Matthew Clark to SLt Roy.  Accompanying him for this event was his wife, Marie-Lucie Mathieu and his children Alexia, Olivia, and Benjamin.Since taking command, SLt Roy has travelled with the band to Vancouver for the Pacific National Exhibition, Nanaimo for the Nanaimo Military Music Festival, and to Oliver, Osoyoos, Chemainus, and Sidney for public outdoor concerts. The highlight of his tenure so far has been conducting the band during the Royal Visit at the B.C. Legislature.There he had a chance to speak personally to Prince William, Duke of Cambridge, when he came to inspect the band.Exuding infectious energy and quiet passion, SLt Roy is thrilled about his posting to beautiful Victoria. Adding to the excitement is the fact that this is his first appointment as Commanding Officer of a Regular Force band. His career path, from joining the reserves in his home province of Quebec to his latest posting to the West Coast, has been meteoric; he is currently the youngest commanding officer serving in the Band Branch.He was asked to reflect on what compelled him to join the Forces and his inspirations and thought process as a Director of...

[caption id="attachment_14355" align="alignnone" width="400"] Students from Rockheights Middle School prepare poppies for a No Stone Left Alone ceremony with Sgt (Ret'd) Jim MacMillan-Murphy, 1st Vice President, Royal Canadian Legion Branch 172. Photo credit: Rock Heights Middle School[/caption]Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~In an effort to place themselves in the worn, muddy boots of First World War soldiers, Grade 8 students at Rockheights Middle School in Esquimalt have written letters from the trenches.The essay assignment had young teens imagining themselves on the frontline, living in the water-filled shabby battlefield trenches, longing to be home with their loved ones.“It is absolutely horrendous here,” writes one student as soldier Johnny. “I cannot believe the lies we were told. Nothing is the way they said it would be…We spend all day crouched in the mud and trench water. The smell is unbearable. Gunpowder, human feces, rotting food and dead bodies are a constant reminder that this isn’t a nightmare but surviving what war is like.”Another fictional soldier named Robert attempts to be positive about their plight in his letter home.“The calm deceased bodies of those who have fallen lie at our feet while we fight to stay from lying dead among them. I am here to serve my part and to keep a future for all that live. I am here to keep you safe; to fight for a future. Please know you two are my everything, you both are what is keeping me alive every moment.”The writing assignment was preparation for their participation in last Friday’s No Stone Left Alone ceremony at Esquimalt Veterans Cemetery, God’s Acre.Since mid-October, the 75 students have been learning everything they can about the bloodiest conflict in Canadian military history that claimed 60,000 lives in the brutality of trench warfare.“Social Studies teacher Todd Hallett starts the lesson by telling...

[caption id="attachment_14351" align="alignnone" width="400"] Salsbury House B&B owner James Derry places a ‘I will Remember’ sign on his lawn. Credit Lewis Batholomew/Alberni Project[/caption]Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~They won’t help sell the family house or declare your support for a political candidate, but Remembrance Day lawn signs are one unique way Comox Valley residents are commemorating Nov. 11.The signs are a fundraising initiative by the HMCS Alberni Museum and Memorial (HAMM) and boldly feature the words “I Will Remember” in English, or in French “Je Me Souviendrai”, below a field of poppies. The placards can be affixed to store-front or apartment windows, mounted to fences, or placed on lawns or in gardens, and come in two sizes, the standard 18" x 27", which cost $35, and the smaller store-front sign which measures 12” x 18”, which sell for $25.Lewis Bartholomew, Founder and Executive Director of the Alberni Project and HAMM, developed the idea for the lawns signs over four years ago. He says the signs hit the right note with a newer generation of Canadians who haven’t completely abandoned the past mantra “Lest we forget” but wanted to express their feelings in a different tone.“I wanted something that was progressive and proactive, yet still maintaining the dignity of what the poppy represents,” said Bartholomew. “So I decided that our slogan would be about commitment, a promise to remember.”His group uses proceeds from sales of merchandise, donations, and other fund-raising initiatives to help fund the non-profit society and its museum. The museum is dedicated to the memories of the sailors who served aboard the Royal Canadian Navy’s flower-class corvette, and the preservation of Canadian military history.Bartholomew said the idea for the sign design grew out of a 2011 idea he introduced for souvenirs such as coffee mugs, hats and shirts, which he...

[caption id="attachment_14314" align="alignnone" width="425"] Capt(N) James Cotter, Canadian Defence Attaché, signs the guestbook at the museum.[/caption]Capt Jenn Jackson, MARPAC PA Office ~It has been more than 60 years since the armistice was signed bringing an end to the Korean War in 1953. In all that time, the Royal Canadian Navy has not had the opportunity to train on the Korean Peninsula with the Republic of Korea Armed Forces.That chance finally materialized Oct. 15-23 during Clear Horizon 16, a multi-national mine countermeasures exercise hosted by the Republic of Korea (ROK) Navy in Chinhae, and Busan, Korea, and surrounding coastal waters.Clear Horizon 16 also provided an occasion for Captain (Navy) Michael Davie, Commander of Naval Force Readiness, to meet with senior ROK Navy Commanders to discuss future collaboration between the two navies.Capt(N) Davie and Capt(N) James Cotter, the Canadian Defence Attaché to ROK, observed demonstrations of the mine counter-warfare operations that formed the basis of Clear Horizon 16. Embarked on ROKN Chunwangbong, the naval captains were able to watch demonstrations of a U.S. Aerial Mine Countermeasure mine search, ROK mine sweepers sweeping for mines, an ROK mine hunting vessel detonation, explosive ordnance disposal dive team pouncer operations, which included divers from Canada, ROK, Philippines, Thailand and the U.S., and an EOD underwater detonation conducted by ROK and Pilipino divers.The demonstration day also included a press conference with members of all major Korean media outlets. Capt(N) Davie was able to address those gathered.“Today’s level of globalization means any crisis in this region would be felt not only militarily, but also by the civilian population—both here in Korea and around the world,” said Capt(N) Davie.“Canada’s goal in participating in Clear Horizon 16 is to help with the coordination of allied forces to ensure there is a capability available to counter that threat.”Being able to...