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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[caption id="attachment_25253" align="aligncenter" width="595"] CPO1 (Retired) Jeff Morrison has a meal at the HMCS Nipigon table in the Mug and Anchor Pub, located in Mahone Bay, Nova Scotia. Photo submitted[/caption]Ryan MelansonTrident Newspaper––When operational, HMCS Nipigon’s duckboards helped keep sailors’ feet dry. Now, the teak slabs serve former members of the ship’s company in different ways: as furniture in their homes or as a piece of nostalgia to be enjoyed in their local mess.The boards, taken from Nipigon’s pilotage position, had been in storage after the ship’s decommissioning in 1998. They were given a second life by CPO1 (Retired) Jeff Morrison. As a hull tech, he was known for his exceptional carpentry skills. “I’ve been a woodworker my whole career, so they were offered to me with the thought that I might be able to do something interesting with them, and that’s what I tried to do.”The boards have been repurposed into a number of furniture projects. The Chiefs’ and Petty Officers’ Mess at Stadacona’s Juno Tower houses a large piece with a binnacle in the centre. A table made from the boards has also become a popular destination for sailors at the Mug and Anchor Pub in Mahone Bay. Morrison also built a custom side table for his former shipmate Cdr (Retired) Allen Munroe, with a collection of his naval challenge coins counter-sunk around the edges.The tables have received a lot of attention online where former Nipigon members stay connected.“We’re having a lot of people popping up, talking about their memories sailing in the ship, and saying they need to get out here and have lunch at the Nipigon table,” Munroe said.The ship was an Annapolis-class destroyer commissioned in 1960, re-commissioned in 1990 following a refit, and then paid off in 1998. Morrison said he’s thrilled to stay connected with his Nipigon colleagues and that his work is helping to preserve the ships’ legacy.“I’m one of those guys who just really loved being in the navy, and I miss it...

[caption id="attachment_25250" align="aligncenter" width="594"] The HMCS Summerside team tasked with recovering a runaway buoy, from left: S1 Bruce, S1 Freeman, and S2 Hynes. Photo by S1 Pollitt, HMCS Summerside[/caption]Lt(N) Dan BannermanHMCS Summerside––HMCS Summerside was tasked Jan. 19 as Ready Duty Ship to recover a TRIAXYS directional wave buoy that had broken free of its mooring and was drifting at sea. The 500-lb buoy posed a threat to the safe of navigation of vessels off the coast of Nova Scotia and needed to be recovered quickly.Summerside slipped its berth in HMC Dockyard at 8 p.m. and proceeded to sea, making way towards the buoy’s last known location. The buoy was still functioning and sending regular updates, which made the task of finding it easier. After a 14-hour overnight transit, Summerside located the buoy off the southeast coast of Nova Scotia. The ship’s Rigid Hull Inflatable Boat (RHIB) was launched and the sweep deck was set up to recover the buoy. The RHIB crew – composed of S1 Bruce, S1 Freeman, and S2 Hynes – proceeded to the buoy and attached a bridle necessary for the crane to hook up in order to safely lift it on board. Thankfully, the seas were much calmer than some of the previous recorded heights the buoy had encountered through its days at sea.The RHIB towed the buoy alongside Summerside and, using the ship’s crane, brought it safely on board. The RHIB was then recovered and Summerside returned to operating areas near Halifax to conduct planned operations with HMCS Moncton. The directional wave buoy is produced by AXYS Technologies, deployed and operated by Defence Research and Development Canada (DRDC), and was moored off the coast to collect wave statistics. This data includes wave height, period, acceleration and direction, and can be used for operational purposes, research...

[caption id="attachment_25245" align="aligncenter" width="595"] HMCS Halifax, left, the Standing NATO Maritime Group One flagship, conducts task group manoeuvres and a replenishment-at-sea with German Navy warships FGS Spessart and FGS Baden-Württemberg during a Passing Exercise in the North Sea on Jan. 28. FGS Spessart is the German Tanker. Photo by S1 Bryan Underwood, Imagery Technician, Royal Canadian Navy[/caption]LCdr Mark Fifield SNMG1 PAO––Standing NATO Maritime Group One (SNMG1) led by the SNMG1 Flagship HMCS Halifax conducted a series of passing training exercises with the German Navy in the North Sea from Jan. 26 to 29.A PASSEX or “Passing Exercise” refers to training with the national navies of our NATO Allies and partners when passing through, or nearby their territorial waters. In this particular case, SNMG1 was transiting through German waters and had a scheduled port visit at the naval base in Wilhelmshaven, Germany. Conducting frequent military-to-military interactions and high-intensity training activities among naval forces increase common knowledge and familiarity of each other’s maritime platforms, capabilities, tactics, techniques and procedures. This PASSEX presented opportunities to enhance joint operational readiness and interoperability among participating naval forces for the mutual benefit of all involved. These efforts pay future dividends by improving NATO’s collective capability to respond in a timely and effective manner to threats to maritime security and commerce in the region and around the world across the full spectrum of operations.“The multinational vessels that comprise SNMG1, including their embarked air assets, have an intensive program of operational patrols and training exercises scheduled with various NATO Allies and partners in our designated Area of Operations,” said Commodore Bradley Peats, Commander SNMG1. “This PASSEX was the first among many that will be conducted during this semester and was executed very well, providing us with a solid foundation to build upon in the coming months.”SNMG1 vessels Halifax...

[caption id="attachment_25237" align="aligncenter" width="595"] Captain(Navy) Scott Robinson, Deputy Commander Canadian Fleet Pacific, is the Task Group Commander for Task Group Exercise 21-01[/caption]Lt(N) Jeff Klassen Public Affairs––“I haven’t really had time to play video games since my kids were born,” said Captain(Navy) Scott Robinson while under strict quarantine at a local hotel last week. He was able to pass the time playing Red Dead Redemption 2 on his PlayStation 4.This week he won’t be as relaxed as he takes charge of five Canadian ships, one Canadian submarine, aircraft from two Canadian air force squadrons, and several U.S. Navy and U.S. Coast Guard sea and air assets, all of them performing simultaneous complex maneuvers and exercises in a dynamic maritime environment.Capt(N) Robinson, who is the Deputy Commander for Canadian Fleet Pacific, is the Task Group Commander for Task Group Exercise (TGEX) 21-01, an exercise that runs from Feb. 8 to 19. It is largely focused on getting West Coast ships and crews ready for upcoming and future deployments.HMCS Calgary is preparing for its upcoming Operation (Op) Artemis and Op Projection deployment to the Asia-Pacific region and Middle Eastern waters. HMC Ships Brandon and Saskatoon are preparing for their Op Carribe deployments in the eastern Pacific Ocean.A naval task group is a grouping of maritime vessels and aircraft (ships, subs, helicopters, etcetera) working together towards a common objective. Canada, for example, sent a task group as part of its humanitarian relief after Hurricane Katrina in 2005 (for Op Unison) and as part of relief efforts after the 2010 earthquake in Haiti (for Op Hestia).The Task Group Commander is in charge of the entire task group. For Capt(N) Robinson, this means coordinating all the scenarios, boardings, and maneuvers during the exercise.“While ships’ captains are responsible primarily for their own crews, the Task Group staff and...

It is easy to see the vital role the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) play in keeping Canada safe and secure. Families are a major source of support and strength to CAF personnel and integral to military success.They also face challenges and make sacrifices; it’s not just the member who enrols and serves.Families act as a support system for members as they deal with the unique challenges of military life. My office is the only formal recourse mechanism for issues related to the Department of National Defence (DND) and CAF available to them; a role we take seriously. We address military family concerns through a variety of means, including answering calls through our toll free number and investigating complex issues. We can help get processes back on track and ensure family members are treated fairly by the DND and CAF. We help connect military families with resources to address their concerns, as well as regularly update information on our website and social media channels to help them navigate the complex DND/CAF system. We hope this helps them better understand their eligibility for services and benefits.When issues arise that appear to be more systemic in nature, we consider an investigation to dive deeper into the issues. We produce public reports with recommendations to the Minister of National Defence, as necessary, and follow up with progress reports on our website. The recommendations made in our reports are intended to bring long-lasting positive change to the Defence community.In 2013, we released our first report on families, On the Homefront: Assessing the Well-being of Canada's Military Families in the New Millennium. This report focused on the vital role played by military families. We made 18 recommendations to address issues such as continuous employment for military spouses, access to housing and health care, and long- and...

[caption id="attachment_25160" align="aligncenter" width="595"] Sgt Allison Geddes hugs TV personality Rick Mercer in Afghanistan where she was part of the Mission Closure Unit. Photo submitted[/caption]The hustle and bustle of travel and changing surroundings has always been a central theme to Allison Geddes’ life.The 36-year-old Sergeant grew up in a military family that made many moves, and that continued when she joined the Canadian Army in 2001 as a reservist with the Canadian Scottish Regiment in Victoria, B.C. A year later she switched to 741 Communications Squadron and while attach posted to 1 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group Headquarters and Singal Squadron she completed a tour to Afghanistan in 2006 before joining the Regular Forces as a Traffic Technician in 2007.In 2019, she moved back to Victoria from CFB Petawawa to take on a new position as J4 Movements Supervisor with the Regional Cadet Support Unit (Pacific).Traffic Technician’s plan, execute, and manage movement of Canadian Armed Forces equipment and personnel. They use all modes of transport from any local, regional, national, or international location in support of Canadian Armed Forces exercises and operations.Her current job as J4 Movements Supervisor with the RSCU(P) had her creating intricate travel itineraries for cadets and military personnel, that is until COVID-19 halted all travel.“What I learned from a young age about travel, logistics, and planning is that in order to make a smooth transition from one place to another, you need to have a plan.”Working for the cadets is like going back to where her career started.She was a member of the Royal Canadian Air Cadets for four years while her family lived in Kingston, ON - joining at the encouragement of her mother, MCpl (Retired) Joanne Geddes.Before the pandemic hit, her days were filled booking travel for B.C. cadets  locally and across Canada for summer and...

2Lt Jamie Boparai Base Administration––People take the oath of allegiance when joining the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) for many reasons. Acting Sub-Lieutenant Seamus Maguire did so while pursuing his dream and coolly calculating his future. “I was playing Junior A hockey for the Crunch in Cochrane, AB, and I was being recruited to play hockey for universities in the United States. My goal was to continue my hockey career while attending a good school, hopefully with a scholarship attached.”However, as fate would have it, near the end of his 2016 season, A/SLt Maguire was approached by a hockey scout from the Royal Military College (RMC) in Kingston, ON. While a formal hockey scholarship was not technically offered, the result of accepting his offer to play hockey at RMC would have similar outcomes with the added benefit of walking into a proud professional career upon completion of his schooling. This was enough to convince A/Slt Maguire that joining the CAF through the Regular Officer Training Plan (ROTP) would afford him to play at a higher-calibre of hockey while having his education paid.“I ended up weighing my options with other schools that had an interest in me at the time and RMC seemed like a great opportunity to develop myself as a person and find a fulfilling and rewarding career path. I am really happy with this decision and it ended up working out so well that I don’t think much about what life might have been like chasing a professional hockey career.”A/SLt Maguire attended RMC for four years, playing hockey and earning his Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration. Unfortunately, his final year was interrupted by COVID-19. RMC shut down in March 2020 and he was sent home to Victoria to complete the remainder of his studies and final exams through distance...

Sub-Lieutenant Spencer Lee and Acting Sub-Lieutenant Scott FerrisHMCS Queen Charlotte––It's not often one gets to be the first-ever recipient of a military recognition award, but on Jan.13 that was the case for a naval reserve sailor from HMCS Queen Charlotte.Master Sailor Rachel McCarthy was the first recipient of the Vice-Admiral Mark Norman Leadership Award. VAdm (Retired) Mark Norman presented the award bearing his name to MS McCarthy on behalf of the Royal Canadian Naval Benevolent Fund (RCNBF). The award recognizes a serving shipmate of the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) whose outstanding efforts have made a significant contribution to the overall quality of life and well-being within the broader naval community. MS McCarthy's contributions were noted for selfless dedication towards bettering the quality of life and service within the navy, outstanding contributions to the overall well-being of the broader naval community, and advocacy for physical fitness and mental health. In presenting the award during an Honours and Award Ceremony held at HMCS Queen Charlotte, VAdm (Ret'd) Norman said, "It's most often the case these awards are named for individuals who are no longer with us. I, for one, am really glad that's not the case with this one." He added he was grateful to the RCNBF for the opportunity to collaborate with the organization and continue its remarkable legacy of supporting navy members and families. The ceremony was attended by Vice-Admiral Craig Baines, Commander of the Royal Canadian Navy; Commodore Michael Hopper, Commander of the Naval Reserve; and other provincial and federal dignitaries who took part in the ceremony virtually."I am very proud of Master Sailor McCarthy,” said Lieutenant-Commander John W. MacDonald, Commanding Officer of HMCS Queen Charlotte. "This current award continues to show the calibre of sailors within our unit, and we will continue to mentor and guide them to...

[caption id="attachment_25116" align="aligncenter" width="594"] Kim Barthel[/caption]Jon ChabunMFRC––When Theoren Fleury did a presentation for CFB Esquimalt in February 2020, it was captivating. In his talk, the former hockey player repeatedly referenced an occupational therapist and the co-author of one of his books Kim Barthel. On Feb.11, the military community will get to hear from whom Fleury calls “the Wayne Gretzky of therapy.” Barthel, in partnership with the Esquimalt Military Family Resource Centre (MFRC), will present on how we can help our children be their best selves. Kelly Aucoin, children services coordinator at the MFRC, vividly remembered Fleury referencing Barthel every few minutes.  “It was amazing,” said Aucoin of Fleury’s powerful presentation. “He referenced her so much. He had a brutally honest storytelling style that had an impact on everyone who attended.”The MFRC took the hint.  First, they contracted Barthel to do workshops for staff and now she will do a presentation for military connected parents. “Everybody could use new strategies when it comes to parenting,” said Dana Rogers, a MFRC social worker who has seen parents struggling over the past year. “She gives people ‘a-ha’ moments. Kim is a world-renowned speaker with such a wealth of knowledge. She is also very relatable. She comes from a place of curiosity, not judgment. She makes it very comfortable.”   In addition to being a sought-after speaker, Barthel’s expertise includes trauma-informed practice, attachment theory, neurobiology and mental health. In May of 2019, the Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists honoured her with the Award of Merit. As an author, Barthel co-authored Canadian National Best-Seller Conversations with a Rattlesnake: Raw and Honest Reflections on Healing and Trauma with Theoren Fleury in 2014. Helping Our Children Be Their Best Selves with Kim Barthel takes place online via Zoom Thursday Feb. 11 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. To register for the session,...

[caption id="attachment_25111" align="aligncenter" width="595"] Sub-Lieutenant Kathrine Hembruff takes a bearing on HMCS Calgary from the port bridge wing of HMCS Regina during Exercise Trident Fury Dec. 3, 2020, while sailing in the West Coast Firing Area off the west coast of Vancouver Island. File Photo by Master Corporal André Maillet, MARPAC Imaging Services[/caption]Peter MallettStaff Writer––Hundreds of sailors from five Royal Canadian Navy warships are quarantining in Victoria hotels this week in preparation for Task Group Exercise (TGEX) 21-01. The training exercise takes place Feb. 8 to 19 off Vancouver Island and is being hosted by the Royal Canadian Navy. TGEX 21-01 will involve approximately 800 personnel from the Canadian Armed Forces, United States Navy (USN), and United States Coast Guard (USCG). Approximately 225 personnel from Halifax-class frigate HMCS Regina are at sea after completing a mandatory isolation early in the new year. Meanwhile, crews from HMC Ships Calgary and Whitehorse and submarine HMCS Victoria are currently isolating, with HMC Ships Brandon and Saskatoon set to quarantine next week to minimize the risk of a COVID-19 outbreak at sea. Capt(N) Scott Robinson, Deputy Commander of Canadian Fleet Pacific, will command the exercise from Regina. “Through a combination of regular COVID-19 testing, daily check-ins, quarantine, and guidance from the Fleet Surgeon and Defence Research scientists, our objective is to reduce the likelihood of a missed infection by as much as possible,” said Capt(N) Robinson.The exercise will take place in the Strait of Juan de Fuca, the Georgia Strait, and off the west coast of Vancouver Island.TGEX 21-01 will also involve air detachments from 443 Maritime Helicopter Squadron and two CH-148 Cyclone helicopters. One Cyclone and its crew will integrate with Regina for a period of the exercise, while the second will embark in Calgary. A CP-140 Aurora maritime patrol aircraft and crew...

[caption id="attachment_25100" align="aligncenter" width="594"] HMCS Halifax conducts warfare training in the operations room simulator at CFB Stadacona while masked and socially distanced as the ship prepared for its Operation Reassurance deployment.[/caption]LCdr Mark FifieldSNMG1 PAO––COVID-19 has impacted all of us on both a personal and professional level.  Institutionally, it has challenged us to adapt our training, technical, and personnel management processes in innovative ways. Preparations for HMCS Halifax’s departure on Jan.1 were no different, with the added complication of an aggressive timeline to ensure the ship was technically ready, crewed, and trained to succeed in operations. HMCS Halifax’s team met these challenges right from the beginning, having to perform major maintenance and readiness training while under various states of provincial restrictions on movements and workforce availability. This required creative solutions to ensure the program moved forward.“This pre-deployment period presented challenges that our team had never faced before as we had to improvise and work harder to make sure we met high readiness status prior to deploying,” said PO2 Greg Cousineau, Halifax Operations Room Supervisor. “It’s not only the motivation and hard work that our sailors put in that allowed us to exceed expectations, but also the families at home who supported us and enabled us to perform to the level that we did.” Whether it was leveraging technology to hold training from sailors’ homes to isolating on board while alongside to conduct training that would normally be held at one of the schools, the Halifax team and Maritime Forces Atlantic support services worked tirelessly to successfully achieve all of the milestones toward the ship reaching the highest state of readiness. Similarly, technical authorities and staff from the Fleet Maintenance Facility Cape Scott had to work through strict precautions, sometimes limiting the amount of simultaneous work that was required, to ensure all...

[caption id="attachment_25096" align="aligncenter" width="595"] Sea Training Atlantic personnel boarded HMCS Moncton on Jan. 17 to begin Multi-ship Readiness Training prior to the ship’s departure on Operation Caribbe. Photos by Cpl Braden Trudeau, Formation Imaging Services[/caption]Courtesy Trident Newspaper––HMCS Moncton’s crew are preparing for a deployment to Operation Caribbe, the Canadian mission supporting American allies in their efforts to combat illicit trafficking in international waters. The ship is set to depart later this month, and recently welcomed staff from Sea Training (Atlantic) on board for Multi-ship Readiness Training to evaluate Moncton’s readiness level before proceeding to sea. The Royal Canadian Navy’s most recent contribution to Operation Caribbe on the east coast saw HMCS Summerside deploy to the Caribbean Sea and Eastern Pacific Ocean from Oct. 26 to Dec. 8, 2020.––––

[caption id="attachment_25093" align="aligncenter" width="595"] S2 Chad DeMan, a Boatswain, cleans the bridge windows during Operation Neon as the ship patrols in the East China Sea. Photo by S1 Valerie LeClair, MARPAC Imaging Services[/caption]Captain Chelsea DubeauMARPAC Public Affairs––One ship. Two operations. Three multinational exercises. Plus, an incredibly busy Intermediate Multi-ship Readiness Training Program on the way to and during Exercise Rim of the Pacific.A deployment experience unlike any other, it was also one that tested HMCS Winnipeg’s crew’s resilience and proved what is possible when positive people-first leadership meets innovation. More than that, it was a learning experience in every possible way: from planning to deploy and then deploying in a COVID environment, incorporating the latest-and-greatest Wi-Fi technology, keeping the crew engaged and morale high during a deployment deprived of port visits, and managing supply chain challenges brought on by the global pandemic. There was much uncharted water to navigate. Even if it is a region in which Canada has operated for decades, Winnipeg’s time in the Asia-Pacific – one of the most newsworthy regions in the world today – continued to provide learning opportunities, sometimes in the most unexpected of ways. The waters of the region are alive, electric, very busy, and anything but benign. Operations Projection and NeonWinnipeg deployed Aug.1, 2020, and commenced Operation Projection in September to conduct forward naval presence operations in the Asia-Pacific region. While deployed in the region, Winnipeg also operated under Operation Neon, Canada’s contribution to a coordinated, multinational effort to support the implementation of United Nations Security Council Resolution sanctions (UNSCRs) imposed against North Korea. The sanctions aim to pressure North Korea to abandon its weapons of mass destruction programs and respond to North Korean nuclear weapon tests and ballistic missile launches. Primarily a surveillance mission, units operating under the auspices of Operation...

Peter MallettStaff Writer––A new take on yoga instruction, with physically distanced classes, geared to the defence community of all shapes, sizes, abilities, and genders is set to launch at the Colwood Pacific Activity Centre next month. Former naval reservist Sonia Gray, 44, is the mastermind behind what she describes as non-traditional yoga designed for non-conforming bodies.“I want my classes to be body positive or body neutral spaces, where you do not feel different, but instead feel like you belong.”Her inclusive approach will help attendees realize the benefits of yoga, an ancient discipline that promotes physical and mental well-being through exercise movement and mediation. Gray will teach an array of classes starting in February. Too kick it off she is hosting a one-time event on Jan. 28 entitled Introduction to Yoga for Every Body. After this, people can enroll in one of three classes. Her Yoga for Every Body runs Thursday evenings from February to April. Participants will learn adaptations to fundamental yoga techniques and mechanics in an inclusive environment. Yoga for Warriors will take place on Wednesdays, and is taught through what Gray describes as a trauma-informed lens. The aim is to reduce physical and mental stress with dynamic movement, deep stretching, and relaxation. Her Weekend Yoga class on Saturdays will also include stretching and relaxation, but with a meditation component.As a large-bodied woman, Gray understands the frustrations associated with not having a mainstream yoga body. She was immediately discouraged when she first took up yoga 15 years ago because the instructor offered no modifications to the poses. She eventually quit the class, though kept up a home practice. About five years ago, she gravitated back to the classroom after finding a yoga course specially designed for larger bodies. “All of us are constantly inundated by diet culture and the beauty...

CFMWS / VAC––This Valentine’s Day thank Canadian Veterans by sending them a hand-made valentine.Each year, Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC) invites Canadian schools, individuals, and organizations to make Valentines for Vets. VAC then distributes the valentines to Veterans in long-term care facilities across the country by Feb. 14.Valentines for Vets began in 1989 when the late newspaper columnist, Ann Landers, encouraged her readers to create special valentines for Veterans in care facilities throughout Canada and the United States. Every year, Landers' special Valentines for Vets column asked her readers to remember the sacrifices of their nations' Veterans by making them personal hand-crafted valentines.VAC became involved with the program in 1996, and has been receiving and distributing valentines to Veterans in care facilities across the country ever since.“Last year VAC sent almost 17,000 valentines to more than 4,700 veterans,” says Ben Ouellette, Director Deployment Support, Recreation, and Messes and Acting Director PSP Operations. “In 2020, PSP Recreation participants across the country made cards, but with this year’s restrictions we may not be able to craft together, so we want to spread the word about this initiative as wide as possible.” If you would like to send a valentine thanking a Veteran, please send it by Feb. 1 to:Valentines for VetsVeterans Affairs CanadaCommemoration, Distribution Unit125 Maple Hills AvenueCharlottetown, PE  C1C 0B6*Veterans Affairs Canada will keep valentines that arrive after the deadline to distribute next year.A few rules about the programYou can send a store-bought valentine; hand-crafted cards, however, make Veterans feel extra special.Valentines of all shapes, sizes, and colours are welcome. However, valentines that are greeting-card size are easier to package and distribute.Please do not include candy or chocolate with the valentines.Do not use sparkles or materials that easily break off the valentines.Do not put individual valentines in sealed envelopes. Send us a single...