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[caption id="attachment_4331" align="alignnone" width="300"] A humpback whale’s head. People often can’t tell the difference between Humpback and Grey whales.[/caption] The waters that make up the workplace of the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) are home to countless forms of marine life. Throughout the day, any number of these seafaring critters may be observed by ship’s staff, and it’s a sailor’s duty to take notice. Through a voluntary program run by the Vancouver Aquarium, the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) receives marine mammal and reptile sightings data from a variety of sources, including lighthouse keepers, tugboat captains, B.C. Ferries, recreational boaters and private researchers. MARPAC vessels and staff are also an integral part of the sightings network, and ships’ staff record and report all sightings and interactions with marine mammals, with location, bearing, species, number of individuals, and whether or not any young are present. “It’s important to the DFO and to organizations like the navy that we know where and when these animals are sighted,” says Danielle Smith, an Environment Officer with Formation Safety and Environment. “Some ocean areas see very little vessel traffic, especially in the winter season, and the data provided by the navy may be the only observations available. Some of the records provided by ships’ staff are of endangered or threatened species; these data points are extremely important to the DFO when making conservation and management decisions.”With the staggering variety of marine life, it can sometimes be difficult to accurately record the type of marine mammal encountered, especially to someone unfamiliar with the many types of marine life in Canada’s waters. “Some of these species vary from one another in very subtle ways,” says Smith. “The difference between a Grey whale and a Humpback, two species people often confuse, can be recognized by the presence or...

[caption id="attachment_4283" align="alignnone" width="300"] After a year in the driver’s seat at Maritime Forces Pacific, RAdm Bill Truelove updates the Formation and reflects on the previous year.[/caption] With one year at the helm of Maritime Forces Pacific (MARPAC)/Joint Task Force Pacific (JTFP), RAdm Bill Truelove has frequently turned heads with his “on again off again” beard. But the growth and clip of his chin hairs is a testament to how active his year has been - both on ship and on land. “So much has happened this past year and my role has been busy,” he says. “My job as Admiral comes with many challenges and it is the reality that there are not enough hours in a day. I think every Admiral who has sat in this chair wants to do more. I get many requests to be in places and I hate saying no.” From his corner office window that overlooks Esquimalt Harbour, he’s watched many warships pack up and deploy on sea trials, operations and deployments - from the Rim of the Pacific Exercise, to Trident Fury, to HMCS Regina’s deployment, to the Arabian Sea. On some of these exercises and operations he has sailed, and others he has monitored from his second story office in D100. During his watch, HMCS Victoria has seen great success at sea, including “her impressive and strategically important” MK48 Torpedo firing during RIMPAC. Pacific Fleet ships also participated in Ex Trident Fury this spring, and JOINTEX, a large scale joint exercise that included participants from RCAF, Canadian Army, SOF and friends from the U.S. Navy and Coast Guard.   “The ships also completed a very successful visit to Vancouver where they had the opportunity to showcase the RCN to the citizens of that important Canadian economic hub and Pacific port city,”...

[caption id="attachment_4280" align="alignnone" width="300"] With the sun smiling down on the trio, Cmdre Bob Auchterlonie (right) assumed command of Canadian Fleet Pacific from Cmdre Scott Bishop (left) July 3. Commander Maritime Forces Pacific/Joint Task Force Pacific, RAdm Bill Truelove (centre), oversaw the signing of the Change of Command certificate.[/caption] Against the backdrop of HMCS Regina, and under the shining summer sun, Cmdre Scott Bishop passed on command of Canadian Fleet Pacific (CANFLTPAC) to Cmdre Bob Auchterlonie.The July 3 ceremony was attended by friends, family, distinguished public officials, past and present military officers, and overseen by RAdm Bill Truelove.Cmdre Bishop spoke about his time as Commander CANFLTPAC, and his appreciation of those he worked with in that time.“In my time at CFB Esquimalt the West Coast has become a home away from home, and I’m going to miss it dearly,” he says. “At the same time, I know the men and women of the Pacific Fleet will be in good hands with Cmdre Auchterlonie.”Cmdre Bishop also addressed RAdm Truelove for his leadership and support.“Sir, it has been a real pleasure to work with you. I’m truly grateful for the friendship, support, and leadership you have shown me and my team,” he said. “I can say that none of the advancements the Pacific Fleet has enjoyed in the last year would have been possible without you. Thank you, sir.”CPO1 David Bliss, Fleet Chief Petty Officer, then presented Cmdre Bishop with his pennant, which was lowered for the last time as his command was relinquished to Cmdre Auchterlonie.RAdm Truelove then took the podium to thank Cmdre Bishop, and wish him luck on his new position.“Your dedication to getting this fleet in fighting shape, and working with the soldiers, sailors, airmen and women of our armed forces has been truly inspirational,” he says. “I...

[caption id="attachment_4277" align="alignnone" width="300"] MCpl Chris Downey and the rest of Team Commonwealth pull pulks during expedition training in Iceland.[/caption] Teams of wounded veterans from the U.K., the U.S. and the Commonwealth (Australia and Canada) are embarking upon on one of the most high profile and toughest expeditions of modern times - walking to the geographic South Pole. Walking with the Wounded - South Pole Allied Challenge is an extreme undertaking for 11 people that will take 16 days and cover 330 kilometres in -35C, all to show the world the extraordinary courage and determination of wounded military members.MCpl Chris Downey and Cpl Alexandre Beaudin D’Anjou will represent Soldier On and the Canadian Armed Forces as a beacon of hope and inspiration for other injured veterans. Both were wounded during their tour in Afghanistan. “I want to prove to other wounded servicemen that you can still do great things as a wounded soldier,” said 31-year-old combat engineer Cpl D’Anjou. “I know a lot of guys who are wounded and on the couch, and I want to tell them live their lives. We only have this time to take advantage of life, and if you have a goal you should go for it.”Following extensive training, teams will fly to Antarctica in November. They aim to reach the South Pole around Dec. 17.“For me it’s about doing this with 11 other wounded soldiers in the hopes that together we will inspire thousands of injured soldiers to start living the life they should despite the limitations they may have,” said 31-year-old air weapons systems technician and EOD operator, MCpl Chris Downey.Each team has four members, and the Canadian soldiers have teamed up with two Aussies. In Cold Lake, Alberta, MCpl Downey has been hauling a sled weighing 70 kilograms about 13 kilometres to...

[caption id="attachment_4234" align="alignnone" width="300"] Outgoing Base Commander, Cmdre Bob Auchterlonie (far left); Reviewing Officer and Commander Maritime Forces Pacific, RAdm Bill Truelove (centre); and Incoming Base Commander Capt(N) Luc Cassivi sign the Change of Command certificates.[/caption] A well attended ceremony under the lofty rafters of the Naden Drill Shed saw Cmdre Bob Auchterlonie pass on the post of Base Commander to Capt(N) Luc Cassivi last Tuesday.Cmdre Auchterlonie received his promotion during the morning’s proceedings, and conducted his first inspection to the thundering tune of famous composer John Williams’ “Imperial March” performed by the Naden Band.Following his sweep of the gathered companies, Cmdre Auchterlonie spoke about his short time as Base Commander to those assembled.“I didn’t know when I was coming in that I’d only be spending a year as Base Commander, but what a year it has been. I couldn’t have done this job were it not for the amazing people I worked with every day, and I know that Luc will be in good hands as Base Commander.”RAdm Bill Truelove then took the stage, taking a moment to thank Cmdre Auchterlonie for his work.“You’ve done a lot of good work in your time commanding the base Bob,” said RAdm Truelove. “You’ve destroyed our roads, dug up our lawns, and wrecked our buildings [referencing the start of infrastructure upgrades]. In all seriousness you had a huge task ahead of you and performed admirably. I look forward to working with you as the Pacific Fleet’s new Commodore.”Following his speech, he joined Capt(N) Cassivi and Cmdre Auchterlonie in signing the change of command certificates. The Commodore’s pennant was lowered and presented to him by Base Chief CPO1 Shawn Taylor, signifying the end of his tenure as Base Commander.In a burst of applause, Capt(N) Cassivi then took to the podium for the first...

[caption id="attachment_4231" align="alignnone" width="300"] Motocross is fun for the whole family.[/caption] Amidst the bouncy castles, marketplace and food vendors at Formation Fun Day, a unique, interactive display will take young and old on a ride.On Saturday, July 6, kids and grown-ups can try motocross.Westshore Motocross will create a safe and easy track on the parade square and hold lessons on how ride 50cc bikes for four to six year olds, and larger rides for adults.“The rush you get from riding a dirt bike is unlike anything else I’ve found,” says Jeff Everden, co-owner of Westshore Motocross. “We wanted to give anyone interested an opportunity to suit up and get on a bike in the safest and most fun way possible.”The activity comes with safety gear, experienced instructors and lots of fun.“Motocross isn’t just for adults, it’s something that people of almost any age can try,” says Everden. “I myself got into it when I was five years old, and I loved every minute of it.”From his Langford-based riding facility, Everden and Westshore Motocross have been providing a place to ride and a way to learn with its Learn to Ride program since 2009.“After I retired from professional motocross I wanted to pass something on to future riders,” says Everden. “I thought Victoria could use a facility where people who didn’t have their own gear could rent it and learn to ride at the same time. The barrier for entry is much lower, since you don’t have to own a bike and all the gear.”For families at Formation Fun Day, Westshore Motocross will also give away prizes including Learn to Ride passes and a Motocross Birthday Party, which includes gear and bike rentals, as well as riding lessons for up to five kids.“The only thing better than learning to ride is...

[caption id="attachment_4228" align="alignnone" width="300"] The charred shell is all that remains of the Goulding family’s home.[/caption] In the early hours of June 20, Wendy Goulding woke to the smell of smoke.She quickly nudged her husband awake, and together they were able to save the lives of their two children and her parents before the entire house in Langford was consumed in flames. “We looked in the backyard and all we could see was red,” says CPO1 Dexter Goulding, Fleet Combat Systems Engineering Chief at CFB Esquimalt. “I ran out back to the garden hose to see if I could keep the fire down at all, but it was completely out of control by then.”Goulding and his wife got son Jefferey, 19, and daughter Taylor, 10, out of the house along with Wendy’s parents May and John, who were living in their downstairs suite. As the house glowed red with flames licking out the windows, all the family could do was watch and wait for help. “The fire department told us the first truck arrived nine minutes after the 911 call was placed, and the second came 10 minutes after,” says CPO1 Goulding. “If that’s true it was the longest nine minutes of my life.”The intensity and speed of the fire meant the Goudings could not retrieve anything from the house. Lost forever are the in-laws’ motor home, boat, computer that held all their electronic photos and important documents, photo albums, furniture, clothing, and even Wendy’s wedding band and engagement ring.“You can’t replace that stuff,” says CPO1 Goulding. “All you can do is accept that it’s gone and move on.”As the loss sinks in and the family begins to map out their future, they’re staying at the Westin Hotel on Bear Mountain. The provincial government covered the cost of the first...

[caption id="attachment_4197" align="alignnone" width="300"] Lt(N) Rob Czekierda receives the Commander’s Commendation from LGen Stuart Beare, the Commander of Canadian Joint Operations Command.[/caption] A former HMCS Vancouver officer was recently commended for actions that may have saved the lives of humanitarian aid workers off the coast of Libya during Operation Unified Protector.In August 2011, Lt(N) Rob Czekierda was serving in Vancouver as Weapons Officer during the conflict in Libya. Vancouver was tasked with protecting the port of Misrata as well as assisting in the enforcement of the no-fly-zone around Libya.  “There were a number of humanitarian aid flights that would come into the Misrata airport near the coast,” explains Lt(N) Czekierda. “We were in close proximity to the coast and in the airport approach corridor, and having aircraft in close quarters to a warship in a warzone can be uncomfortable. We had to make sure all of the planes were identified properly.”Vancouver had identified a humanitarian aid flight coming in when sensors picked up a number of “technicals” (civilian vehicles with jury-rigged mounted weapons) on the beach facing the ocean.“We went to action stations and took our steps, but our radar had created a number of  false tracks that the ops team was cleaning up,” says Lt(N) Czekierda. “With all of the movement and action the humanitarian aid flight had gotten lost in the clutter for a second.”With unknown forces on the beach and a humanitarian flight at a risk of being targeted with weapons systems, Lt(N) Czekierda had to think fast.“I decided that I had to be sure what we were looking at, so I went against procedure and decided not to activate one of our weapon systems,” he says. “I didn’t want to take any chances with a flight full of civilians and humanitarian aid in the air.”Lt(N) Czekierda’s...

[caption id="attachment_4194" align="alignnone" width="300"] HMCS Ottawa left June 10 for Operation Caribbe, Canada’s recurring contribution to a multinational campaign against transnational organized crime in the Americas and the Caribbean.[/caption] The crew of HMCS Ottawa has made a heading for warmer waters as part of their deployment to the eastern Pacific on Operation Caribbe – Canada’s recurring contribution to a multinational campaign against transnational organized crime in the Americas and the Caribbean.The crew pushed off June 10 to participate in the Royal Canadian Navy’s component of Operation Caribbe. Op Caribbe is the Canadian Joint Operations Command mission that supports multinational efforts led by the Joint Interagency Task Force South (JIATF South). JIATF South’s overarching operation, named Op Martillo, brings Canada and other western hemisphere and European nations together in the Caribbean Basin, eastern Pacific and littoral waters of Central America. JIATF South is responsible for the detection and monitoring of suspect air and maritime illicit trafficking activities in the Caribbean Sea, Gulf of Mexico, and the Eastern Pacific. JIATF South also collects, processes, and disseminates information to assist interagency and partner nation operations.  CPO1 Michael Miller, Coxswain in Ottawa, says preparing the new command team and crew for the deployment has been a successful and exciting time. “We’ve been getting everyone in line for the deployment,” says CPO1 Miller. “Preparations were conducted at a steady pace, and every effort was made to ensure our team had the pre-deployment leave required to set themselves and their families up for success during the mission.”Most of Ottawa’s deployment will be spent under the sizzling South American sun, and the crew has had to take the unfamiliar environment into account.“Working in a tropical climate comes with new challenges, primarily the requirement for more frequent hydration, as well as protection from the sun,” says CPO1 Miller....

[caption id="attachment_4191" align="alignnone" width="300"] PO2 Thomas Templeman instructs students of the Basic Military Officer Qualification course on the construction of roadblocks in the field using a sandbox diorama.[/caption] Huddled around a small, raised sand box at Rocky Point, naval cadets re-created a road block using plastic toy soldiers and cars.Guiding their choices was PO2 Rob Templeman, an instructor with the Basic Military Officer Qualification course (BMOQ), The sandbox diorama was part of the new recruits field training – dubbed Exercise Challenge – that also included establishing observations posts and orienteering in the Metchosin woods. “This is where they get an introduction to in-the-field knowledge they need if they are ever deployed into a theatre of engagement,” says SLt David Lewis, Operations Officer for the BMOQ. “We do our best to provide the most accurate environment possible for the scenarios they’re being trained for.”Once knowledgeable on the diorama, they set about setting up a roadblock on a small forest track using concertina wire, metal barrels, and fencing material.The real test kicked in when truck loads of navy personnel dressed as foreign military attempt to pass through the roadblock. They were met with a vehicle search and pointed questions in order to determine if a threat existed.“Actually having to act on their lessons helps provide a feeling of realism that lets their new skills shine through,” says SLt Lewis. “It’s one thing to sit down and learn it in a classroom, but it’s another to have to really use those skills. It adds that extra edge to the lesson.”Exercise Challenge is only a portion of the BMOQ training. Recruits from 24 reserve units across Canada participate in the 11-week course for the qualifications that will net them a commission as an Acting Sub-lieutenant in the Royal Canadian Navy.“Most of these recruits are...

[caption id="attachment_4174" align="alignnone" width="300"] The King family lace up their runners in preparation for the Navy Run. This family will run together in the 10K portion as a gift to mom for Mother’s Day. Seen here are Kalliana King, Koltin King, PO1 Mike King, and Cathy King holding her Mother’s Day card.[/caption] When military spouse Cathy King saw the June 23 Navy Run on a Facebook post, she thought it would be a great opportunity to involve her whole family in an active day. She suggested her Mother’s Day gift be running the race as a family of four, and the family agreed.“We have been trying to get on a healthier track,” she said. “I thought we could have some fun and lead by example.”Both children are very active at school, but PO1 Mike King says they’ve been preparing on the country roads around Cowichan.“I am hoping it’s the first of many things like this that we can take part in together,” he says.  It will be a busy day for the family. Following the run they’ll head to Cowichan to take part in the Big Bike Ride. -Shelley Lipke, Staff Writer

Not all sport competitions take place on a field, rink, or pitch. Some take place in a closed room, where the panting of players is drowned out only by rally of rackets and the smack of a ball.This little known competitive sport is one of many played by elite Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) athletes. One such player is LS Kyle Weatherby, who recently won the Canadian Armed Forces Squash Nationals in the Under 30 division at CFB Borden, going up against the best CAF players across the country in team and singles events.“It was a great experience,” says LS Weatherby, a radar technician in HMCS Ottawa. “I love the game, so putting my skills to the test against nationally skilled squash players was an excellent opportunity.”LS Weatherby got into the fast-paced game while visiting his father in Halifax during a course in 2008.“He used to play a lot, and when I came to see him he got me playing too. I played a few people on the east coast and when I came back here I just kept playing and playing.”He stuck with the game out of a love for its fast paced, quick thinking nature.“You have to be very fit, physically and mentally,” he says. “The only way to excel is to be at the top of your game in all aspects. It’s a real challenge.”The only way to improve one’s skill at squash is to play the game, he says. His training regimen before nationals had him playing nearly every day, as well as running whenever possible.“Fitness is important because in squash you’re running around so much, you have to be able to push yourself for the whole match. Tactics and skill are important, but if you’re tired and worn out, it’s very difficult to win.”The CAF Squash Nationals, held May 4 to 10, saw five regions (Pacific, Atlantic, Prairie, Ontario, and Quebec) send their best nine players to compete against each other. The two main categories were...

[caption id="attachment_4168" align="alignnone" width="300"] MCpl Dan Marcil and Cpl Alistair Stewart, members of 11 Service Company, answer questions from the public after the Victoria Day Parade.[/caption] It was not just school bands and fancy cars parade-goers watched  during the Victoria Day parade. They also took in 11 Service Company soldiers forming back into ack ack formation from box formation as they drove past the 150th Victoria Day Parade Reviewing Stand. Being near the front of the parade meant it was a great opportunity for the public to see the unit’s vehicles. Through coordination with CFB Esquimalt, MCpl Dan Marcil and 2Lt Tyler Baldwin organized the details in 11 Service Company’s participation at this year’s Victoria Day Parade. Fifteen other soldiers from 11 Service Company also participated.Unit members remained at the legislative buildings after the parade and talked to visitors - some local and others sightseers from the United States and elsewhere. Vehicles and soldiers remained on display for three hours after the parade before heading back to Ashton Armoury.-Sgt Les Gardner, 39 Service Battalion PA

[caption id="attachment_4112" align="alignnone" width="300"] The new fire hall and emergency response centre opened June 7. This four-floor state-of-the-art building is 44,000 square metres, and would serve as a command platform after an earthquake or natural disaster.[/caption] It was a small parade, but one filled with pride as 30 fire fighters marched last Friday from their old fire hall in dockyard to their new digs on Esquimalt Road. As they strutted up to the massive candy-apple-red building, with Rick LeQesne leading the way, RAdm Bill Truelove, VAdm Paul Maddison and Associate Minister of National Defence, Kerry-Lynne D. Findlay were their to greet them. The special march was part of the grand opening celebrations of the new Fire Hall and Emergency Operations Centre.The ringing of the fire bell three times by the Minister signified the building was officially in service. “Our government’s investment in critical infrastructure for our Canadian Armed Forces are helping to ensure our military and civilian personnel at CFB Esquimalt will have state-of-the-art equipment to assist them in carrying out their critical duties in the defence of Canada,” said Minister Findlay. “Investments like this in defence infrastructure are vital to ensure that members of can train and work together towards our defence objectives.”The new fire hall is 4,438 square metres with two stories and five drive-through bays for emergency vehicles.This project’s overall value is estimated at $27.3 million, which includes all aspects of the project, such as studies, design, construction, administration, contingencies and taxes. “The staff are ecstatic with this state-of-the-art building,” said Fire Chief Steve Mullen. “We are able to consolidate all our equipment and personnel in one building now. The living space, storage and working space are a lot more spacious and there is more room to work.”Aside from being the fire hall, the building will also...

[caption id="attachment_4109" align="alignnone" width="300"] Front Row: Clearance divers from Fleet Dive Unit (Pacific) participating in International Mine Countermeasures Exercise (IMCMEX) 13 on the flight deck of USS Ponce, an Austin-class amphibious transport dock, on Sunday, May 12. The Canadian dive team, specializing in Explosive Ordnance Disposal, joined USS Scout, an Avenger-class mine countermeasures ship, to support the neutralization of simulated ordnance during IMCMEX.Back row: The Canadian Underwater Mine Countermeasures Command Team.[/caption] Seven clearance divers from Maritime Forces Pacific have just returned from the Kingdom of Bahrain, where they dove in the warm, clear Persian Gulf during the 2013 International Mine Countermeasures Exercise (IMCM).The annual gathering of 41 nations and more than 6,500 participants took place May 3-30 to address tactics and practices for maintaining freedom of navigation and open sea lines of communications from the threat of sea mines. Fleet Diving Unit Pacific’s (FDU (P)) team was the Canadian dive component for the exercise, joining nine other dive teams that specialize in explosive ordnance disposal.“Divers are usually the last resort in an underwater situation,” says CPO2 Robert DeProy, Operations Chief at FDU (P). “There is a lot of technology used in mine hunting, but when it comes to identifying threats nothing beats a pair of human eyes.”Divers were posted aboard USS Scout, a United States Navy Avenger-class Mine Hunter, and were on hand to investigate possible mines and strange formations picked up by the ship’s sonar.“It was a really great experience. Diving in Bahrain is way different than diving here,” said Lt(N) Demetris Mousouliotis, FDU (P) team leader for the exercise. “The water is so warm and so clear that we were diving in a fraction of the equipment we use in our homes waters. The team loved it.”In the cold Pacific waters clearance divers wear heat retaining suits, but...

[caption id="attachment_4105" align="alignnone" width="300"] Vadm Paul Maddison, Commander of the Royal Canadian Navy, arrives on board HMCS Calgary as part of his week-long tour.[/caption] Last week, VAdm Paul Maddison made a special week-long trip to Victoria, a sort of finale tour to his tenure as Commander of the Royal Canadian Navy. In two weeks, he will retire, ending a 30-year naval career. However, before he officially hangs up his uniform, he wanted to visit his naval community and share a few key messages. At CFB Esquimalt, this included a series of town halls.  “As Commander I have visited Quebec, Halifax and about nine or 10 Naval Reserve Divisions across the country, but I saved the best one for last,” he told the Chiefs and Petty Officers gathered at the Pacific Fleet Club. “It’s been almost two years since I’ve been here, and a lot has happened in that time. Today I want to talk about the four principal themes that shape the Canadian Navy: purpose, platform, people and pride.”With the full attention of everyone in the room, he went on to explain those themes.Purpose, he says, is protecting the seaways, and ensuring the safe travel of goods.  “Our economy floats on salt water,” he explained. “…Most Canadians can’t imagine what we do at sea, but if we explain it to them, they understand we have ships for a reason.”He also reminded his sailors of the need to thwart the travel of illegal goods, something the Royal Canadian Navy is actively engaged in through various operations, such as HMCS Toronto’s work in the Arabian Sea, and HMCS Regina and HMCS Ottawa’s drug busts earlier in the year. “That is why, as Canadians, we need to have a navy ready to fight if we need to. It is our purpose. The future...

[caption id="attachment_4073" align="alignnone" width="300"] Lt(N) Greg Walker, Combat Systems Engineering Officer aboard HMCS Toronto, stands with seized narcotics primed for explosive destruction. The massive haul of seized narcotics is Toronto’s fourth major interdiction in two months.[/caption] HMCS Toronto successfully disrupted its fourth narcotics shipment in two months as part of ongoing counter-terrorism operations in the Arabian Sea. During the search and inspection of a vessel by the ship’s naval boarding team on May 23, Toronto’s crew recovered approximately 300 kilograms of heroin. The narcotics were recovered without incident and will be destroyed.“The success of this operation truly shows the level of cohesion between the ship and our partners,” said Commander Jeff Hamilton, Commanding Officer of HMCS Toronto. “Toronto continues to operate effectively with our Combined Task Force 150 partners to combat transnational criminal and terrorist organizations at all levels, ensuring the seas remain open and secure for legitimate purposes.”Since ship and crew departed Halifax in January, Toronto has recovered roughly 1,300 kilograms of narcotics. On March 29, a massive narcotics shipment in the Indian Ocean was disrupted when the ship’s naval boarding team recovered approximately 500 kilograms of heroin. The crew recovered 317 kilograms on May 6, and an additional 195 kilograms on May 10.Narcotics smuggling in the Arabian Sea and surrounding region is a recognized source of funding for terrorist organizations. By patrolling some of the world’s most important shipping routes, coalition ships are denying financial resources to extremist groups, and helping to keep drugs off of Canada’s streets.“I continue to be impressed with HMCS Toronto’s efforts in the Arabian Sea region. Over the course of their deployment they have consistently made a valuable contribution to the international fight against terrorism,” said Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence. “Their dedication to Canada, allies and regional partners has been second-to-none.”Toronto...

[caption id="attachment_4070" align="alignnone" width="300"] Cpl Dominic Pare pauses for a photo at the helm of HMCS Oriole. The ammunition technician from CFAD Angus at CFB Borden was on Oriole for just three days before joining the crew for Swiftsure.[/caption] The best way to learn is to do, or so a group of ammunition technicians from Canadian Forces Ammunition Depot (CFAD) Angus, at CFB Borden, learned when they crewed HMCS Oriole for Swiftsure 2013.The group, here for adventure training, arrived at CFB Esquimalt May 20 and hit the water, many for the first time, the next day. “I didn’t think I’d ever be working on a sailboat, let alone racing one,” said Cpl Dominic Pare, an ammunition technician. “As an army guy I’m used to working on dry land. Being out on a heaving boat has really changed how I see the navy and the kind of conditions they work in.”Cpl Pare was prepared for this year’s Swiftsure Yacht Race alongside his fellow ammo techs with just three days of intensive, on-the-water training.“It was a very challenging experience but very worthwhile,” he says. “When everyone is working together and crewing their individual stations, it feels like a well oiled machine. It’s a rewarding feeling.”LCdr Jeff Kibble, captain of Oriole, says this year’s crew exceeded expectations.“I’ve worked them hard but in three days they came together like a real crew,” he said. “We crammed 30 days of training into a three-day period, and the crew fared very well.”Following their quick trial-by-fire period, the newly minted crew was thrust into action. The Swiftsure International Yacht Race is a gathering of sailors from around the world. Participants take part in a number of races throughout the Juan de Fuca Strait. Challenges range from the Juan De Fuca Race that spans 79.7 nautical miles, to...

[caption id="attachment_4067" align="alignnone" width="300"] CPO2 Mike Babcock is the regional naval attractions co-ordinator for B.C. and Alberta. This summer he will travel with the bus to the Calgary Stampede, Klondike Days in Edmonton, the PNE in Vancouver and the Abbotsford Air Show.[/caption] The Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) is looking to hire 500 regular force and 360 reserve sailors per year over the next three years.To showcase the face of the navy to the public and help entice potential recruits to a career on the ocean, the RCN, coordinated through Naval Reserve Headquarters in Quebec City, uses five modified commercial buses for total-force naval attraction activities. This is in addition to, and augments the established CF recruiting group organization.“The buses were initiated by the regular force in 2007 to better assist in reaching out to the public and to combat maritime blindness,” says CPO2 Mike Babcock, One Navy Visibility and Attractions Regional Outreach Coordinator for B.C. and Alberta. “We use this piece of kit as a mobile information kiosk to tell the navy story.”Busses are rolling billboards whose interiors house a series of interactive computer systems that showcase the navy’s many responsibilities, operations, and employment opportunities. A 12-seat theatre in the rear plays a wide variety of video productions from the Truth, Duty, Valour series to the latest RIMPAC exercise. In the middle section, a push-button video display with headphones provides job-specific information about all naval occupations.“It’s a brilliant idea that allows people an inside look at what we do in the navy,” said CPO2 Babcock. “Most people are quite surprised at what they find when they walk into the bus. The feedback we receive is very positive.” This summer CPO2 Babcock will travel to events across B.C. and Alberta to connect with Canadians.“When we go to the PNE in Vancouver...

[caption id="attachment_4006" align="alignnone" width="300"] LS Paul Johnson indicates how close the Mark V Zodiac boat is to the shore as he helps bring a wave of Royal 22nd Regiment soldiers to land on a beach during Exercise Trident Fury 13 (JOINTEX).[/caption] During the May long weekend, army personnel from Valcartier, Quebec, joined local navy and air force elements to practice amphibious landings in a joint exercise (Joint Ex) designed to heighten interoperability between Canadian assets.On May 18, more than 130 army soldiers deployed in Mark V Zodiac boats from HMC Ships Ottawa and Algonquin bound for a remote beach off William Head.Once on shore their mission was to evacuate Canadian citizens from a mock hostile environment scenario and then safely transport them to awaiting Maritime Coastal Defence Vessel HMCS Saskatoon.“We are very excited to take part in this exercise as we have been training since March,” said Battery Commander, Maj Sabastien Lemieux. “Amphibious operations involve taking a land element and projecting it to the shore. Usually we train on a unit level with army pretending to be navy. Since we have arrived on May 7 joining Trident Fury, we have learned the mechanics behind the maritime operations, and all the tactics and planning sequences of the maritime elements that need to be done in order to make the ship project the force to shore.”The soldiers from Third Royal 22 Regiment Valcartier usually practice this type of training on the St. Lawrence River, and this is the first time it has been done using joint operations.  During the exercise Cmdre Scott Bishop and fleet staff sailed in Algonquin to oversee command of Joint Ex.Sea King helicopters deployed from Ottawa and Algonquin monitored the situation on the ground. “One challenge we have in an exercise like this is getting a ship to...

[caption id="attachment_4003" align="alignnone" width="300"] MS Mia Lynch discusses the leadership performance of NCdt Benjamin Mason of HMCS Scotian. NCdt Mason had just completed his tasking during the Leadership Potential Assessment Course during the Basic Military Officers Qualification, an 11-week course at Canadian Forces Fleet School Esquimalt.[/caption] The famous coach Vince Lombardi once said, “Leaders aren’t born they are made. And they are made just like anything else, through hard work.” Lombardi’s comment was in reference to football, but it holds true for the Canadian Armed Forces and the Naval Reserve.If leaders are made then somewhere, someone is making them. That somewhere is the Basic Military Officer Qualification (BMOQ) course at Canadian Forces Fleet School Esquimalt, and those “someones” are MS Mia Lynch and PO2 Robert Templeman.MS Lynch from HMCS Queen Charlotte in Charlottown, PEI, is in her second year instructing BMOQ. “It’s a lot of work,” she says, “But it is so rewarding seeing them on the parade square for their graduation and seeing the transformation.”As the students practice drill in the distance MS Lynch adds, “At first the students don’t understand our insistence on the little things such as tucking in their shoe laces or not having threads hanging on their uniform. We’re helping them create a mindset of paying attention to details.” A smile crosses her face as she says, “If you can’t handle the little things, you’re not going to be able to lead a group of subordinates in a mission.”This is the first year instructing on BMOQ for PO2 Templeman. He is member of HMCS Nonsuch in Edmonton and is taking a break from his civilian job as an electrician. A 16-year veteran of the Naval Reserve, PO2 Templeman has served on ship and participated in domestic operations such as assisting Manitoba flood victims on Operation...

[caption id="attachment_4000" align="alignnone" width="300"] Melanie Williamson, Miss Canada International 2013, takes over as lookout on HMCS Calgary.[/caption] Miss Canada International 2013 winner, Melanie Williamson visited Canadian Forces Base Esquimalt Tuesday, May 21. She went on board HMCS Calgary with previous Miss Canada International 2003 winner Lorenza Sammarelli. Williamson showed up in Calgary’s colours, blue and gold. Williamson was born and raised in Kitchener, Ontario, and this was her first exposure to the navy.  She was engaging and attentive and had a wonderful time experiencing the Royal Canadian Navy first-hand.HMCS Calgary recently came out of refit from a mid-life upgrade and modernization Frigate Equipment Life Extension programme. The crew were happy to show off their new ship to both Miss Canada winners. They were taken to the flight deck, operations room and the bridge for a chance to see how Calgary runs and what the ship’s crew do at work.

[caption id="attachment_3960" align="alignnone" width="300"] About 15 members of the Senior Command team familiarized themselves with the New Force Fitness test last Monday at the Naden Athletic Centre. CPO1 Paul Helston, Capt (N) Bob Auchterlonie, and Capt (N) Mike Knippel in prone position awaiting the start of the intermittent shuttle run.[/caption] Last Monday morning, 15 senior leaders, including RAdm Bill Truelove, donned their PT attire and trialed components of the new FORCE Fitness Evaluation at the Naden Athletic Centre. With stopwatches in hand, Personnel Support Programs fitness instructors coached and timed them on all four components of the FORCE evaluation. “It’s demanding and reflective of the challenges one could face in any element we encounter in the Canadian Forces,” said RAdm Truelove, Commander of Maritime Forces Pacific. “It will be great to see the Formation rise to this new challenge. I found it used different muscle groups and interesting techniques with rushes and lots of lower body strength. Well done to the PSP staff for rolling it out. It’s nice to be here today with senior leadership doing this test.” The evaluation has four components including a sandbag lift (30 lifts in three minutes and 30 seconds or less), intermittent loaded shuttles (five loaded and five unloaded in five minutes and 21 seconds or less), 20 metre rushes (dropping to the prone position every 10 metre and completed in 51 seconds or less) and the sandbag drag (continuous test with no time frame). Between each component there is a five minute rest and typically the test must be completed in the order noted above; however, members may start at any point. “Today we had quite a range of age, demographics, and fitness levels and everybody made it,” said Base Commander, Capt (N) Bob Auchterlonie. “The common task approach is great. I...

“The success of this operation demonstrates the professionalism and tenacity of Toronto’s crew,” said Cdr Jeff Hamilton, Commanding Officer of HMCS Toronto. “Our operations are achieving effects by helping to disrupt terrorist networks, and to enhance coordinated, multinational efforts to understand and map the way these groups resource themselves. Our presence in the region also gives our country the flexibility and capability to respond quickly to emerging crises in the region.”

The largest joint Canadian-United States military exercise on the West Coast.

[caption id="attachment_3911" align="alignnone" width="300"] Laden with gear, Amphibious Scout Team 1 swims ashore during littoral exercises off Metchosin.[/caption] When spending a sunny spring day at the beach, one seldom expects to see groups of armed military personnel trudge up out of the surf.That’s what beach-side revellers in Metchosin would have seen last week as military members from the U.S. and Canada performed amphibious littoral exercises.“Littoral exercises take our troops from the wet to the dry,” said Lt(N) Michael St-Pierre of Fleet Diving Unit (Pacific) (FDU(P)). “This is a brand new type of exercise for the Canadian military. We’re writing a whole new book here.”The exercise was part of Jointex 2013, the first in a series of nation-wide joint training and readiness events designed to change how the Canadian Armed Forces train, develop and learn to prepare for future operations.. It also marked the start of Trident Fury 2013, a biennial and joint naval exercise hosted by Maritime Forces Pacific and conducted with the United States.Boats laden with FDU(P) Clearance Divers and Canadian Army Patrol Pathfinders from the Royal 22 Regiment of Valcartier, Québec zipped up the coast towards Race Rocks and Royal Beach. Once they reached their embankment points they tumbled into the water, gear and all. From there it was a 30-metre swim to the beach, where they set up a perimeter, doffed their aquatic gear and transitioned to land-based operations.The mixed group of navy and army members is being called Amphibious Scout Teams (AST), a newly formed type of task group created to address the stark division of labour found between marine and land-based operations.“The skills needed for those two kinds of operations don’t overlap, so we came up with a composite team to bridge the gap,” said Maj Chris Comeau, the lead Army planner for Jointex Stage...

[caption id="attachment_3908" align="alignnone" width="300"] Capt Fahim Awan, LS Luis Lemus, MCpl Brad Axworthy, and MS Sarah Zimmer hold up boots and a sign, ready for their fundraising drive.[/caption] The third annual Nijmegen boot drive in support of the Military Families Fund and Soldier On is taking place May 14 from 6:30 to 8 a.m. at the entrance gates to Dockyard, Naden and Colwood.“We are hoping to raise between $5,000 and $6,000 this year for these charities,” said Nijmegen team leader, CPO2 Chris Koblun.The Military Families Fund provides financial assistance for emergencies caused by the conditions of military service while the Soldier On Fund helps offset the costs for injured soldiers to maintain an active lifestyle.“When we initially did the boot drive, we were blown away with the support from the DND community and in one and a half hours our marching team collected more than $6,000 in donations. Last year we did it again and raised roughly the same amount. It’s for a great cause and we’d like to thank everyone for their continued support,” he said.The Nijmegen team began training at the end of February and just completed their first 40 kilometre march. To date, they have marched more than 400 kilometres.“The 40 kilometre back to back march takes place June 6 and 7 with team selection happening on June 10 when nine marchers will be selected from 20 candidates for the team,” said CPO2 Koblun. As Nijmegen approaches, the team trains five days a week, marching 60 kilometres.The 97th annual Nijmegen march takes place July 16 – 19 in the Netherlands and is the largest marching event in the world involving over 45,000 military members and civilians. Canadian military members will march 160 kilometres over four days in CADPAT carrying a backpack weighing at least 10 kilograms. -Shelley...

[caption id="attachment_3905" align="alignnone" width="300"] LS Litter helps fellow diver LS Marc Andre Ouimet get into the water for a dive.[/caption] Nine sailors are hoping to join an elite group of divers this August by enduring the rigours of the year-long Royal Canadian Navy Clearance Diving Officer/QL5A Clearance Diver course.Last Tuesday off Brentwood Bay, Lookout joined the sea portion of the CUMA Rebreather phase from this specialty course to talk to the trainers and divers to find out more about this specialized dive training, which is only offered at Fleet Diving Unit Pacific (FDU(P)).“There are only 120 clearance divers in Canada,” said senior dive instructor PO1 Sean Ratz. “The students find this course challenging, rewarding and they also love bonding and working as a team,” he said. “It’s a difficult course, and the learning curve is steep.”Seven Leading Seamen and two officers, including one exchange officer from the Irish Navy, are taking this course.The course began in September and since then divers have conducted pool training at Commonwealth Pool, navigated a one kilometre underwater rope course and completed a series of work-ups for deep dives to 21, 30 and 45 metres. They have also learned to use new equipment and apply theories learned in the classroom. Now at sea for a two week course, they are aiming for the maximum depth of 81 metres using Canadian Underwater Mine Apparatus (CUMA) rebreather dive gear. The CUMA Rebreather uses a mix of helium and oxygen, which allows people to dive much deeper than traditional SCUBA air supply. “The CUMA rebreather allows you to dive deeper and are much quieter and less invasive acoustically and magnetically,” said Irish exchange officer SLt Shane Mulcahy. “We have naval divers in Ireland, but there is no rebreather training like this. This training allows us to carry out...

[caption id="attachment_3877" align="alignnone" width="300"] Fitness and Sports Instructor Matt Carlson (green shirt) leads the Run to Succeed group through Dockyard.[/caption] Are you ready to take your personal running goals to the next level? Whether you would like to run stronger and faster, or focus on injury prevention and running form, two new lunchtime running clinics have been set up to help members of all levels achieve their targets and run their best in the upcoming June 23 Navy Run.Every Monday and Wednesday on base, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., PO1 Chris Fraser leads the Learn to Run clinic, while Fitness and Sports Instructor Matt Carlson leads Run to Succeed.“This is a way for people to prepare to meet their goals and try to improve on what they have already accomplished,” says PO1 Fraser.Both groups meet outside the Dockyard Gym for a warm up and hour long run clinic.“For participants just beginning to run it’s important to run in a safe and progressive manner, and also be in a relaxed educational environment,” said PO1 Fraser. “Some people find running five or 10 kilometres is challenging, and this clinic will help them prepare so they can have a positive experience. Learn to Run is focused on participation and completion rather than speed. It’s about learning in a safe proactive manner and finishing the distance.”Run to Succeed is for those who wish to run their best Navy Run ever. “This is a group designed for the runner who is looking to run their fastest and we are focusing more on speed,” said Carlson. Topics include intervals, learning how to pace properly, running up hill and nutrition. “We set this running clinic up as a way to promote the Navy Run and a way to get people ready for the run. Injury reduction...

[caption id="attachment_3874" align="alignnone" width="300"] LS Wolls (foreground) and MS Ferguson from HMCS Algonquin clean the grounds of Honour House in New Westminster April 26. The crew members, along with four of their counterparts took the day to give back to the community by assisting Honour House volunteers with yard maintenance and clean up duties.[/caption] Canadian and American Navy sailors teamed up to support six different charities as part of the Vancouver Port Visit April 26-29. Eighty-two volunteers from USS Lake Champlain, HMC Ships Algonquin, Victoria, Nanaimo and Saskatoon did everything from mowing lawns to motivating new Canadians.Six sailors spent a day improving the grounds of Honour House, a home away from home for Canadian Armed Forces personnel, first responders and their families while they are receiving medical treatment in Vancouver. The home was selected to be part of the 2013 New Westminster Heritage Homes Tour. Although the interior of the home was in good shape, the exterior needed a facelift. RAdm Truelove also paid a visit to Honour House. He met residents and thanked volunteers who provide regular support to the facility. Five female sailors from HMC Ships Nanaimo, Saskatoon and Algonquin spent a day volunteering at the Downtown Eastside Women’s Emergency Shelter. They donated clothing and goods, organized the storage rooms and helped with meal preparation and serving. Meanwhile, three other sailors spoke about their experiences as new Canadians and being in the Navy at S.U.C.C.E.S.S., an immigration settlement and integration agency. Seventy-five sailors from Patrol Craft Training ships, HMC Ships Nanaimo and Saskatoon, and USS Lake Champlain braved April showers to rehabilitate Heywood and Doran parks in North Vancouver. They removed invasive species, planted natural vegetation and cleaned up litter. “It was so great to have so many volunteers from the navy show up”, said Stephanie Levy, Evergreen...