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[caption id="attachment_22903" align="aligncenter" width="593"] Photo by Sgt Sam Ladd, US Army[/caption]Antarctica is the coldest of the Earth’s continents, which might explain the name of a recent US-led mission entitled Operation Deep Freeze. From December to February, United States Coast Guard Cutter Polar Star, a heavy icebreaker, made its 23rd deployment on the annual joint U.S. military service mission to resupply the U.S. Antarctic stations in support of the National Science Foundation, the lead agency for the U.S. Antarctic Program.Joining the United States Coast Guard dive team was LS Jeff Dubinsky, a Fleet Diving Unit (Pacific) clearance diver. The 122 metre, 13,000-ton Polar Star produced a 37-kilometre channel through the one to four-metre-thick ice to McMurdo Station. The three-week process to cut the ice enabled the offload of over 19.5 million pounds of dry cargo and 7.6 million gallons of fuel from three merchant vessels. All three ships combined offloaded enough supplies to ensure the research station has provisions until 2021. Supplies are critical for the science station’s daily operations and are integral to the National Science Foundation’s massive overhaul of McMurdo Station. It is in the midst of a $355 million construction project to remove 104 buildings around the research station and create a central hub of six main structures. The structures will contain science labs, operations offices, and accommodations for the station. Construction is scheduled to finish in 2026. As a member of the dive team, LS Dubinsky integrated with the United States Coast Guard and U.S. Army Dive teams in Honolulu, Hawaii, for a workup dive, ice dive theory training, and embarkation on Polar Star. The ship transit from Hawaii to Antarctica took a month with a port call in Hobart, Tasmania. Upon arrival on the continent, the ship was greeted by large ice flows, 24-hour sunlight, and pods of killer whales following the ship. The dive team provided the icebreaker an emergency diving and underwater repair capability. During the 42 days at sea, between Hobart and the port visit...

[caption id="attachment_22897" align="aligncenter" width="594"] Rear-Admiral Bob Auchterlonie with his sister Susan by his Walk of Achievement plaque. Photo by Janice Lee[/caption]Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~The Comox Valley has produced several remarkable people who have moved from their grassroots community into the world to do amazing work. To honour them, the city created the Comox Valley Walk of Achievement in Courtenay.The most recent person to receive a sidewalk plaque is Rear-Admiral Bob Auchterlonie, Commander Maritime Forces Pacific. On Saturday March 7, he joined the esteemed list of honorees, including actors John Hodgins (Bones) and Kim Cattrall (Sex in the City); B.C.’s first female Lieutenant Governor, Iona Campagnolo; researcher and biochemist Dr. Fred Leung; and Second World War flying ace Stocky Edwards. Emcee David Durrant said the Admiral, with his 33 years of distinguished service in the Royal Canadian Navy, and still many more to go, elevated him as a remarkable Comox Valley native. RAdm Auchterlonie has deep roots in the village of Cumberland. His grandfather founded a popular bakery in 1920 in the then bustling mining town, until the business was sold in 2003. He attended Cumberland Elementary, Cumberland Junior, and George P. Vanier Secondary before venturing into the military.“I am one person who can say he grew up in one of the best places on the planet and I truly believe that; and I can say this with authority because I have had a chance to travel and see most of the world during my service in the Royal Canadian Navy.”His rise in the navy is due in part, he says, to being well supported by family, friends, and co-workers. But, he adds, his true secret weapon for success came from the “great foundation” of growing up in the Comox Valley, a unique community that gave him the perfect start in life. The induction ceremony also included remarks by Mayor Bob Wells of Courtenay and Mayor Leslie Baird of Comox, members of the Comox Valley Walk of Achievement Committee, and his...

[caption id="attachment_22889" align="alignnone" width="594"] PO2 Alliszon Zaichkowski toots her conch shell during the annual Key West Conch Shell Blowing Contest Saturday, March 7 in Florida. She won top honours by impressing the judges with excerpts from several melodies including composer Igor Stravinsky’s “The Firebird” and Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody.” Photo by Rob O’Neal, Florida Keys News Bureau/HO[/caption]Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~On the grounds of the Old Island Restoration Foundation of Key West, Florida, Petty Officer Second Class Alliszon Zaichkowski held a dusty pink conch shell to her lips and blew a melodic note. The Naden Band French horn musician entered this year’s 58th annual Conch Honk contest, using her favourite shell nicknamed ‘Conky’. While others simply bellowed a loud single note, she played a horn solo from Igor Stravinsky’s The Firebird, Neil Young’s After the Gold Rush, and Queen’s Bohemian Rhapsody. When the last note resounded, the crowd erupted with cheers and thunderous applause. She had sealed the women’s division title, defeating over 12 competitors.“My intention going into the contest was to blow people’s minds and I definitely think I achieved that. They’d never seen anything like it,” said PO2 Zaichkowski.Judges based their decision on the loudness, length, and quality of the sound; novelty and originality were also taken into consideration. “There was actually a lot of practice and showmanship involved in this win. I was on stage performing for seven minutes. Most competitors didn’t play entire songs. Instead, they mostly just tried see how loud they could blow their shells for 30 seconds or so; so my performance was a really was big deal and people really reacted to it.”Former bandmate Sgt Matthew Rowsell, a trombone player for the Central Band of the CAF in Ottawa, travelled with her to Florida. He assisted her during Bohemian Rhapsody playing a couple other...

[caption id="attachment_22731" align="alignnone" width="593"] AB Dyneh Allen-Buckmire, a cook in HMCS Glace Bay, undertakes additional duties aboard the ship. Photo by Cpl Yongku Kang[/caption]Lt(N) Nicole Morrison, HMCS Glace Bay ~There are many ties that bind military members together. Commitment to Queen and country, strong work ethic, and dedication to physical fitness are some shared traits.But what do a cook, a naval warfare officer, and a naval combat information operator have in common? For one, the trio are sailing together in HMCS Glace Bay as part of Operation Projection West Africa. For two, they are all Black Canadians. AB Dyneh Allen-Buckmire, Lt(N) Greygory Wagner-Conserve, and OS Lennox Peprah are part of a mission in the Gulf of Guinea aimed at capacity building and fostering relationships with like-minded partner nations, while helping to support stability and the security goals in the region. For the sailors deployed on this operation, it means getting to work alongside partner navies during two major training exercises, Obangame Express 2020 and Phoenix Express 2020, sponsored by U.S. Africa Command and led by U.S. Naval Forces Africa. They also interact with local communities during outreach events, furthering efforts towards sustainable development, empowerment of girls and women, and overall conditions for peace and stability.                 February was Black History Month, and the three sailors reflected on what it meant to them.AB Allen-Buckmire, who serves as a cook, said it was a chance to “represent my people and how we overcame and how we keep pushing through obstacles” and to “show my people, and everyone else, that no matter how much we’ve been put down in the past, we’ll always rise up.” Black History Month is a learning opportunity, she says, and a chance to show her community that no one should “be afraid to...

[caption id="attachment_22728" align="alignnone" width="593"] Major Geoff Robinson, left, and Major Master Warrant Officer Donald Clark, right, present the Joint Task Force Pacific Command Commendation to Canadian Ranger Master Corporal Juri Agapow of the Quesnel Canadian Ranger Patrol. Photo by Canadian Ranger Lindsay Chung, Quesnel Canadian Ranger Patrol[/caption]Canadian Ranger Lindsay Chung, Quesnel Canadian Ranger Patrol ~Master Corporal Juri Agapow of the Quesnel Canadian Ranger Patrol recently received a Joint Task Force Pacific Command Commendation to recognize his work during the 2017 British Columbia wildfires.Major Geoff Robinson, Officer Commanding 4th Canadian Ranger Patrol Group’s British Columbia Company, and Master Warrant Officer Donald Clark, British Columbia Company Sergeant Major, travelled to Quesnel to present the award on Feb. 11.“Master Corporal Juri Agapow was heavily involved in Operation Lentus during the summer of 2017,” said Maj Robinson. “He spent time fighting fires to save his own property, and then he went ahead and helped everybody else. That’s outstanding work, and that was recognized.”MCpl Agapow served on Operation Lentus 17-04 in western Canada during the wildfires. Between July 9, 2017, and Sept. 15, 2017, Canadian Armed Forces members supported B.C. provincial firefighters in firefighting operations, evacuating locals, transporting first responders and equipment, delivering essential aid to isolated communities, assisting the RCMP in providing information to the public and conducting observation and reporting at assigned points along access roads in affected areas.At the Quesnel Patrol meeting, Maj Robinson read the Command Commendation from the Joint Task Force Pacific Commander, signed by Vice-Admiral Art MacDonald, who in 2017 was the Commander of Maritime Forces Pacific. “Tasked in support of Operation Lentus 17-04, Canadian Ranger Agapow’s performance and dedication to duty were exceptional,” read Maj Robinson. “His knowledge of the local area was an outstanding resource to the Task Force, specifically his in-depth knowledge of the Chilcotin Plateau area...

[caption id="attachment_22722" align="alignnone" width="593"] CPO1 Alena Mondelli is seen at sea during an Operation Reassurance deployment with HMCS Toronto in 2019. Photo by MCpl Manuela Berger, FIS[/caption]Current role: Unit CPO Personnel Coordination Center (Atlantic)Years of Service: 28––What was the best thing that happened in your life over this past year (2019)?The greatest experience up to this point in my career has been my appointment as Coxswain of a Canadian Patrol Frigate. I was a member of HMCS Toronto from July 2018 until August 2019. In that year, we deployed on Operation Reassurance Roto 10.Was there an unexpected joy this past year?During Op Reassurance Roto 10, I co-presented with Cmdre Josée Kurtz at the Ukraine Naval Academy in Odessa, Ukraine, on diversity and gender integration within the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) and Canadian Armed Forces (CAF). As a Senior Officer and Senior Non-Commissioned Officer, we spoke as a “leadership team” about our experiences not only as RCN leaders, but how gender integration has assisted in transforming and leading the way to an inclusive and diverse CAF and RCN. It was an incredible honour to show the progress of the CAF as the two most senior (Officer and NCM Corp) deployed women within the RCN at the time. We were making change – globally - just by being who we were.What was your biggest change in the last year?My biggest change this year was my appointment to a key position. This was not because of the differences in jobs between a ship’s Coxswain and the Personnel Coordination Center Atlantic Unit Chief Petty Officer, but because of what it signified. Never again will I be posted to a ship as a member of the ship’s company. This was something that struck me quite heavily as I left Toronto, as our identity of being...

[caption id="attachment_22716" align="alignnone" width="593"] Big Sister LS Marie-Eve Long enjoys a hockey game with her Little Sister and friend MS Dany Nadeau. Photo by LS Mike Golubuff[/caption]Ashley Evans, Fleet Maintenance Facility Cape Breton ~Two years ago, Leading Seaman Marie-Eve Long of FMF Cape Breton attended a Big Brothers Big Sisters of Victoria orientation session about mentoring opportunities.She went with a friend, but she ultimately applied to be a big sister.Having grown up with a father who struggled with alcohol addiction, LS Long could identify with less advantaged children. “Some kids need that added support growing up. Someone to look up to, an added perspective,” she says. It was a two-month process to be matched with her “Little,” as she affectionately calls her, after she started the application process. This included a criminal record check, screening, and a shared skills and interest questionnaire to find the right match. From there, a social worker became involved, sharing information between the two and the child’s family to ensure a good fit. LS Long then made a one-year commitment, which has extended to another year and a second Little Sister. She meets with her “Little”, now 17 years old, biweekly, and her second “Little,” who is 10 years old,  weekly.“The kids and youth are learning a lot of healthy life skills from their mentors,” says Rhonda Brown, Executive Director of Big Brothers Big Sisters Victoria. “Overall mental-health, self-esteem, self-confidence, healthy social skills, and problem-solving skills. They are watching and learning from their mentors.”Brown has worked with Big Brothers Big Sisters for 14 years.  Her passion comes from a belief that quality time spent together can change the trajectory of a person’s life. She sees mentoring as a preventative factor in child and youth development. “Children aren’t given up on, and it is awesome to be...

[caption id="attachment_22713" align="alignnone" width="593"] Participants in Soldier On’s 2020 Allied Winter Sports Camp in Whistler, B.C., gather with Minister of National Defence Harjit Sajjan for a group photograph. Photo credit Soldier On[/caption]Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~Amidst Whistler’s towering mountain peaks and crisp fallen snow, former and current ill or injured military members carved a path to recovery through winter sports.Two weeks ago, Soldier On hosted a camp at Whistler Blackcomb for a group of Canadians, Americans, Australians, and Britishers to help them heal both physically and mentally through five activities: Nordic skiing, Alpine skiing, bobsledding, snowboarding, sledge hockey, and ziplining. LCdr Raymond Trotter, 38, says it was an experience he will never forget. “It was a high-point in my life because I truly believe it was life-altering. Everyone involved was supportive and non-judgemental, and in a short period of eight days many of us formed friendships I am certain will last a lifetime.”There was a competitive edge to the events, but the real win was the good medicine that comes from sports. “There was an incredibly therapeutic atmosphere doing these sports with people in similar circumstances as you,” said LCdr Trotter. “Barriers came down quickly even though we were all strangers heading into this. We are all soldiers, so we understood each other from the get-go.”Many participants did tours in Afghanistan or Iraq and shared a common experience even though their injuries are different. For LCdr Trotter, he suffered a spinal injury during preparations to deploy to Afghanistan in 2008. He has endured chronic pain over 12 years finding some relief through a pain clinic, physiotherapy, and acupuncture. Sports, he says, is one of his most vital recovery tools as it quickly reminds him of his strengths and weak areas.Soldier On National Manager Jay Feyko, a retired infantry man, is a believer...

Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~When Esquimalt Panago Pizza store owner Jason Gray wants to let DND employees know they are appreciated his solution is simple, he delivers free pizza. Last Wednesday, he made the largest delivery of his career. Just before lunch hour, he and two employees loaded up their vehicles and delivered 150 pizzas to the over 1,000 military personnel and civilian employees at Fleet Maintenance Facility Cape Breton. Another 15 pies were delivered to workers on the afternoon shift to raise their spirits.He did a similar gesture for the crew of HMCS Nanaimo and HMCS Whitehorse before the warships headed out on Operation Caribbe. “I wanted to show my continued support of CFB Esquimalt and its military members and civilian employees who live and work in the community,” said Gray. “This latest event was a lot of fun and it was awesome to see how much the pizza was enjoyed by the workforce at FMF Cape Breton.” Gray says he turned his pizza parlor into a factory at 8 a.m. in order deliver to a factory. He estimates they used over 180 lbs of dough, 5,000 slices of ham, pepperoni, salami and Italian sausage, 80 lbs of cheese, and 40 lbs of tomato sauce – a total donation of $3,000. A line of ship repair staff extended throughout the hallway of the 35,000 square metre facility in Dockyard to grab a slice or two. CPO1 David Morse and members of the unit’s Health and Wellness Committee set up and distributed the pizza. He says Pizza Day is something the committee does a couple of times a year to offer the team an opportunity to get away from their daily work and join together for a laugh and a smile.“However, word quickly spread about Jason Gray’s generosity, and the fact that...

[caption id="attachment_22707" align="alignnone" width="594"] Minister of Veterans Affairs Lawrence MacAulay carries a Canadian flag to lay at a gravesite in Veteran’s Cemetery. Photo by Peter Mallett, Lookout[/caption]Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~Minister of Veterans Affairs Lawrence MacAulay made a special visit to Veterans Cemetery in Esquimalt last Wednesday to recognize the historic site’s recent expansion. At the iconic cemetery, more commonly known as God’s Acre, MacAulay was joined by Base Commander, Captain (Navy) Sam Sader and other dignitaries to celebrate the renovations and an expansion for 1,400 new internment spaces. MacAulay, who is also the Associate Minister of National Defence, not only reflected on the universal feeling of appreciation for the soldiers, sailors, and aviators buried there, but also the countless individuals who have worked to maintain and preserve God’s Acre since its founding over 151 years ago.“Years of hard work and dedication has led to the incredible transformation of God’s Acre – a reflection of Canada’s pride and respect for veterans,” said MacAulay. “As future generations walk through these rows and read the inscriptions on the grave markers, I hope they will understand what Canadians have achieved and sacrificed in the cause of peace and freedom.”To further that effort, in the past five years Veteran’s Affairs Canada (VAC) has invested $4 million for the expansion, renovations, and upgrades to the cemetery. Approximately $1.9 million of those funds were used to construct granite columbariums that contain the ashes of the dead, and in-ground internments.Capt(N) Sader congratulated Jennifer McFarlane, Chair of the God’s Acre Candlelight Committee, for helping honour those in  the cemetery. Every year on the last Thursday of May, a candlelight tribute is held  with children and veterans to remember those who have served and continue to serve their country. “For every flag, grave, march, and trumpet there is a face, a...

Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~Erika Johnson is building a self-care movement one event at a time. The military member has joined Kara Poyntz, a military spouse, to host A Night of Self Care at the Colwood Activity Centre Saturday, March 14, 6 to 9 p.m. Together they will present information on meditation, essential oils and exercise.“There can be a lot of stress associated with being a spouse or member of the military. We believe everyone needs to find their own self care solutions,” said Johnson. “Finding these methods can be difficult, so we are offering a sampling of different techniques to achieve that goal.”To aid them in their goal, they have enlisted healing experts Meagan Bagnall, a kinesiologist who will offer instruction on kettlebell fitness techniques; Sarah Hofing will provide instruction on yoga and chakra meditation techniques; and Victoria-based dance instructor Miss Cheryl will teach a Zumbini music dance class for children and a Hot Hulu exercise class for adults.Education and sampling of various essential oils will be taught by Johnson and Poyntz.To round out the event, local health industry representatives and vendors will have booths on site.  There will also be free giveaways and samples of health care products. Daycare will be provided for parents with children. There are 40 spaces available for the event at a cost of $25, available through Eventbrite.ca.

[caption id="attachment_22690" align="alignnone" width="593"] Members of 39 Signal Regiment covered plenty of ground Feb 21-23 as they took part in Exercise Mercury Thunder II, a test of the unit’s ability to provide communications support to other military units taking part in earthquake relief operations. Graphic by Capt Jeff Manney, 39 Canadian Brigade Group[/caption]Capt Jeff Manney, 39 Canadian Brigade Group ~It was just a test, but when Major Jeff Hamel showed up for work at his Vancouver unit over the weekend he could feel the ground shaking.A simulated 8.1 magnitude quake had just struck B.C., triggering Cougar Tremor, the army’s response plan for a major earthquake in the province. Signallers and line technicians of 39 Signal Regiment, streaming in for a routine training weekend, were given a no-notice order: deal with it.  This was Exercise Mercury Thunder II.“Normally the army plans in a methodical way – prepare, rehearse and execute a plan to seize that bridge, that sort of thing,” says Maj Hamel, the Regiment’s ‘A’ squadron commander.  “But earthquake response is different.  It’s a call in the middle of the night to get something to work come hell or high water.”In this exercise, the quake levelled the bridges around Vancouver, brought down a hospital, sent looters rampaging through debris, and pushed citizens, who felt the government wasn’t responding quickly enough, to occupy critical federal land where they could set up their own evacuee camps.“We all hope we never have to do this. But if it happens, and if we suck at this task, thousands of people will die because we didn’t want to step outside our comfort zone,” Maj Hamel says.On paper, the task for the Army’s Reserve signallers in a domestic emergency is a simple one – provide communications to military units responding to the disaster. “The Canadian Armed Forces is...

[caption id="attachment_22687" align="alignnone" width="591"] Photo by Peter Mallett[/caption]Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~As LS Daniel D’Sa sees it, the best things in life are by design.Currently a stores man at Naval Fleet School Pacific by day, he also owns and operates a local business in Victoria. Last year he launched his company Daniel D’Sa Designs Inc. which focuses on designing and renovating homes. “While some people find it enjoyable to read a novel in their spare time, for me it’s all about combing through technical manuals and architectural journals; that’s what I gravitate towards,” he says. Before a back injury developed at sea got him posted to shore, he relished his work as part of the marine systems engineer department with the navy. He’s drawn from those skills and applied them to transforming people’s living spaces.“I focus mainly on interior design and see a project through from its infancy to completion,” he explains.  “I am the guy who works directly with my clients to find out what they want, and come up with a concept that reflects the practicality of the space, cohesion of the design, and the mood the client is trying to create.”He enlisted as a reservist with 32nd Brigade Group in Toronto about the same time he studied industrial design and design foundations at Humber College.The 2008 recession led him to move to Wainwright, Alta., where he was offered a full-time Class B position with The Canadian Maneuvering Training Center. During his time in Wainwright, D’Sa bought a state-of-the-art large format printer/cutter and opened his own printing business after recognizing a need; area businesses wore a path to his door. “All businesses have been positive experiences,” he says. “I’m really good at moving to a location, finding out what the need is, and adapting.”He re-mustered to the navy and...

[caption id="attachment_22684" align="alignnone" width="593"] Printing technician MS Anne Marie Aird[/caption]Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~The 3D printer is fast becoming the progressive instructor’s secret weapon.At Naval Training Development Centre (Pacific), this emerging technology has become a new resource for instructors at Naval Fleet School (Pacific) to help students learn the particulars of a frigate. One-dimensional warship drawings from past curriculum will, over time, become lifelike three-dimensional printed figurines of frigates or ship parts. Once printed, 3D warships are magnetized and placed on grids where naval communicator students can practice creating formations and tactical operations at sea, like the game Battleship. Other trades, such as Marine Systems Engineers, could also use the technology to learn about equipment, ship layout, and location of departments within it. School instructors are supported by the NTDC(P) Learning Support Centre, who develop training aids. Their higher resolution 3D printer - a Sigma R19 manufactured by BCN 3D of Spain – is housed in the Nixon Building in Work Point. Master Seaman Anne Marie Aird and Able Seaman Torrey Francis are the printing technicians. “I think there is a great deal of potential for 3D printing in everyday naval use. It has an infinite number of uses for the navy beyond just training aids, which is what we are currently using the technology for,” says MS Aird.3D printer technology is also used at Fleet Maintenance Facility Cape Breton for manufacturing purposes. The army also use in-house 3D technology to create models for battlefield tactics. “I think this technology will increase a sailor’s self-confidence when they are asked to do a real-life task,” said MS Aird. “If you have seen it before and were able to play around with it, this helps you make the connection between your brain, your body, and the physical world.”Feedback from students has been positive...

For those interested in space operations, a unique course is being brought to CFB Esquimalt in May. 17 Wing’s RCAF W/C William G. Barker VC Aerospace College will deliver their five-day Space Operations Course May 4 to 9 at the Learning and Career Centre. It is a follow-on to the Basic Space Operations Course, and is intended for those who want positions with Director General Space, the Canadian Space Operations Centre, outside Canada Space Operations, or those who use space assets operationally. The course is open to all trades and ranks of aviators, ordinary seaman, through to majors and lieutenant commanders. The course teaches students a variety of space related topics such as space environment, electromagnetic spectrum, orbital mechanics, space intelligence surveillance, reconnaissance or remote sensing, missile warning, missile tracking systems, space communications, and space-based global navigation systems such as GPS, Glonass, Galileo, and Beidou.The instructor-guided syndicate portion of the course teaches presentation techniques to colleagues and commanders on aspects of space operations, and how available space assets are employed in joint or combined operations. The course will similarly uncover some of the challenges of space operations and cyber domain concerns, which could affect our space reliance. Finally, the course concludes with group research and presentation on a specific space operations topic. The course involves some reading homework and briefing note type preparation assignments. The pre-requisite Basic Space Operations Course can be found on the Defence Learning Network. The course must be completed 14 days prior to attending the Space Operations Course.The distance learning curriculum, a series of 19 modules, takes about 60 hours to complete – students have 90 days to complete the course once registered. The courses introduces the fundamentals of space power and its application in modern operations by gaining an appreciation of how the space environment functions. Priority will be given...

[caption id="attachment_22678" align="alignnone" width="593"] HMCS Victoria conducts one of three camber dives off F jetty as part of the submarine’s work ups to readiness. Photo by Leading Seaman Mike Goluboff[/caption]Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~HMCS Victoria and crew have completed a critical step in the submarine’s work-ups in preparation for 2020 submarine operations. The submarine conducted a camber dive at the F Jetty location, where it submerged to verify the integrity of water tightness, as well as the functionality of several key submarine systems. In order to ensure fitness before returning to operational service, a submarine must be certified following the successful completion of harbour acceptance and sea trials.  Once certified, the submarine must be manned with a qualified and experienced crew and be deemed safe to sail, enabling it to conduct trials, and execute operations.Throughout a combined 20-hour period, Victoria’s 48-person crew successfully completed three dives to depths of 11 metres. “It was the fourth camber dive in which I have participated throughout my career, and I can say from my experience that the submarine and most importantly her crew performed outstandingly well throughout the whole evolution,” said LCdr Eric Isabelle, Victoria’s Commanding Officer. “A variety of systems were tested to ensure the submarine is safe to operate in dived condition.”Subject matter experts from Fleet Maintenance Facility Cape Breton and NDHQ Director Maritime Equipment Programs Management Submarines were part of an 11-person rider crew who recorded data and analytics in support of all submarine testing functions.Among the systems evaluated during the camber dive were the submarine’s trim and ballast systems. The ballast system enables the submarine to dive or surface through tanks that store the proper proportion of air or water via main blows, emergency blows and low pressure blower. Meanwhile, the trim system compensates for depth changes when the submarine...

Courtesy Maple Leaf ~The following article is the first of a three part series chronicling CISM Soccer Canada’s journey to becoming the best sports program in International Military Sports Council (CISM) Canada. This article provides insight into the preliminary efforts to reinvigorate a fading international sports platform deemed by many as “exclusive”, “amateur” and carrying the stigma of military tourism.The CISM Soccer Canada project has taken over 42 months to reap the rewards of its re-branding, new strategy, and marketing efforts. For decades, Canada’s military team continuously lost the sport’s biggest events, such as the America’s Cup, the Military World Games and the World Football Trophy, with a goal differential in high double-digit figures.  During this year’s Military World Games, Canada lost 4-0 (Oman), 2-1 (Greece) and 3-0 (Egypt).  While the scores are not eye-catching, these results amounted to a historic achievement. For decades, CISM Soccer Canada members suffered lop-sided defeats and returned to Canada feeling deflated, embarrassed, and ostracized back at the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) workplace. Some people in the CAF community considered the program to be military tourism. Many within CISM even considered the team as “privileged participants”.  In March 2016, new management spearheaded a four-year strategic roadmap that drove a new vision seeking respect and dissolving the stereotypes that plagued the CAF’s national soccer team.The project’s first effort was re-branding the name. CISM Soccer Canada marketed back to the CAF soccer community that it was “inclusive”. A strategic communication plan spread across various social media outlets carried the new motto: No limits on what you can be, do and have. CISM Soccer Canada executives led a new culture of “team before self”, “sacrifice” and “second family”, and authenticated the philosophy throughout coaches, players, scouting, and training events, and regional and national soccer championships. Management then focused on the...

[caption id="attachment_22670" align="alignnone" width="593"] Cadets at the start line eagerly await to begin the open team racing at Sovereign Lake Nordic Club during the 2020 Provincial Cadet Biathlon Competition, held February 14-16 in Vernon, B.C. Photo by MWO Scott-Zvanitajs, Cadet Correspondent.[/caption]Flight Sergeant Aimee Glaubitz, Cadet Correspondent ~Eighty-four cadets competed in the B.C. Provincial Cadet Biathlon Championship held at Sovereign Lake Nordic Club in Vernon Feb. 14-16.  Only 10 earned the chance to represent B.C. in the National Championship in Valcartier, Q.C., in March.Day one had them racing relay-style. They skied 5.1 kilometres and shot 22. rifles on a 50 meter range, twice in the prone position before tagging off to their partner. Relay racing requires collaboration and trust to make a team and succeed. The next day cadets competed in the singles sprint race. During this race they skied 4.5 km to 6 km alone and shot once in the prone position and once standing (seniors only). This showcased their ability to stay calm under pressure. In both races, many cadets showed off their training by “whiting out” the targets, a term for hitting five targets in a row with no targets missed.Supporting the cadets in their races were 50 officers, volunteers, parents, and staff cadets, there to help the Championship run smoothly as officials, coaches, and support staff. Cadets were awarded Bronze, Silver and Gold medals in the Junior, Senior and Youth Female and Male categories for both the Sprint and Relay races.–––The cadets and staff that will represent B.C. at the National Cadet Biathlon ChampionshipCompetitorsCadets Jade Finch & Cindy Ma, 861 RCACS, Abbotsford,Cadets Rory Bot & Austen Holmes-Peters,223 RCACS, VernonCadets Daniela Ursulesku & Alissa Guo, 907 RCACS, White RockCadets Daniel Gilfillan & Jeremy Ferland,386 RCACS, ComoxCadets Sebastian Solomonson, 204 RCACS, KamloopsCadets Molly Caldwell, 3066 RCACC, GoldenCoachesCapt Tim Dyke,907 RCACS, White RockCapt Maria Brunskill,1705 RCACC, VernonCadet Tyler Greenwood,1725 RCACC, ChilliwackCadet Officials StaffCadet Lewis Dawes,386 RCACS, ComoxCadet Sophia Ledingham,205 RCACS, NanaimoCadet Nathan Sanctis,907 RCACS, White RockCadet Ciarra Huston,1705 RCACC, Vernon

[caption id="attachment_22659" align="alignnone" width="593"] Members of the Fleet Diving Unit (Pacific) and the United States Navy salvage project gather for a team photo on the hull of the MV Micro Dawn in Weno, Chuuk State Federated States of Micronesia. Photo by Lt Byers, MDSU Company 1-3 OIC[/caption]Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~Four clearance divers from Fleet Diving Unit (Pacific) helped dismantle a sunken commercial vessel of Japanese origin located pier-side in Weno Harbor, Chuuk State, Federated States of Micronesia, capitalizing on a unique training opportunity and a goodwill deed. The little known Federated States of Micronesia consists of 607 islands extending 2,900 kilometers across the archipelago of the Caroline Islands east of the Philippines. It is an independent republic associated with the United States, who led the salvage project through USN Commander Seventh Fleet.For a month late last fall, the team of divers assisted the USN Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit (MDSU) ONE with MV Micro Dawn salvage operations, an 869 tonne behemoth cargo ship that sank during a fierce typhoon in 2006.It settled on its portside, pier-side in Weno Harbour’s only serviceable port terminal restricting access.The project started last July, with USN divers salvaging it piece by piece, floating salvaged sections to the surface using various lifting bags and subsequently disposing of the sections in deeper water at specific locations approved by the Federated States of Micronesia. The month’s work by FDU(P) divers was part of MDSU ONE’s year-long effort to clear away the wreckage. CPO2 Shawn Goodine said his dive team was in uncharted water with the salvage operation of this magnitude. However, due to the high level of training clearance divers receive, and the similarities in USN diving procedures and equipment, his team quickly adjusted and were fully integrated into USN-led diving and salvage operations within days of their arrival...

[caption id="attachment_22656" align="alignnone" width="593"] MS (Retired) John Wood shakes hands with Capt(N) Julian Elbourne after receiving a Special Service Medal and Canadian Peacekeeping Service Medal from Lieutenant Governor of B.C. Janet Austin. Photo by Stephanie Raymond[/caption]Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~Forty-seven years after HMCS Terra Nova completed an international peacekeeping mission in Vietnam, 25 members of the crew were officially honoured with medals. On Family Day, Lieutenant Governor Janet Austin presided over a ceremony at the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia, where the Special Service Medal with Peace Clasp and Canadian Peacekeeping Service Medal were presented to crew members who had not received their medals. Four were awarded posthumously. In the red carpeted chamber, with its ornate ceiling and curved rows of wooden seats, approximately 130 of the crew’s family members gathered for the occasion. Captain (Navy) Julian Elbourne, Chief of Staff for Commander of Maritime Forces Pacific, provided official representation at the ceremony for the Royal Canadian Navy.CPO2 (Retired) Ken Levert was among those who received his medal years ago. That moment, says Levert, came with little fanfare as he had to officially request his medal, which was subsequently mailed to him in plain brown paper envelope back in the early 1990s. They weren’t intentionally being ignored, says Levert. Medals for Canadian peacekeeping missions prior to the Vietnam War were sometimes not issued. It wasn’t until the late 1980s that things changed. So last week’s ceremony was a great way to make up for lost time.  Everyone was “treated like royalty,” he said.This ceremony also acknowledged the families, who remained behind, worked, paid the bills, and looked after children without their spouses.“It was a very rewarding day for all of us, even for those of us who have already received our deployment medal. Some of our crew got their medals for the...

[caption id="attachment_22653" align="alignnone" width="593"] Photo by Lt(N) Tristan Robinson, HMCS Winnipeg; Rodney Venis, Base PA[/caption]Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~Five-year-old Lucas Hill had something “really great” to tell his classmates at show and tell last week. That’s because the St. Patrick’s School Kindergarten student was an Honorary Base Commander for a day at CFB Esquimalt.He officially took the watch from Captain (Navy) Sam Sader on Friday, Feb. 14 and was fitted with a Royal Canadian Navy NCD jacket before embarking on an extensive guided tour of the base and warship HMCS Winnipeg. Lucas won the tour with his father Greg when his ballot was drawn from last fall’s Defence on the Dock contest. “It’s a day neither of us will ever forget and was truly incredible,” said Greg. “Lucas’ eyes were lighting up the whole time with so many people saluting him and making him feel important. The amount of coordination it must have taken to pull this off was truly amazing and very inspiring for both of us.”Father and son toyed with the lights and sirens of a military police car, marveled at the bright red fire truck at the fire hall, and surveyed the landscape from the cab of a Transportation Electrical and Mechanical Engineering digger. On the water, the two learned about the Firebrand and what it does to fight ship fires, and then strolled up the brow of HMCS Winnipeg. Acknowledging that an important guest was coming aboard, whistles sounded as Capt(N) Hill was piped onto the ship. The young sailor took his place in the captain’s chair on the bridge before climbing down the ladder into the lower decks and being escorted through the passageways to the main rooms within, such as the operations room and galley. But it was the ship’s diver demonstration that made him awestruck as...

[caption id="attachment_22616" align="alignnone" width="591"] Ashley Duncan, Dan Bodden, Steve Deschamps, and Rebecca Schillemat participate in a Wounded Warrior Run BC training run on Feb. 9. Photo by John W. Penner, John’s Photography[/caption]Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~The Wounded Warriors Canada fundraising account just went up by $85,000 after a team of eight runners ran from Sooke to Sidney on Feb. 9.The one day 60-kilometre training run introduced the public to the upcoming weeklong Wounded Warrior Run BC and to the mental health challenges faced by many veterans and first responders.“We wanted to create a buzz for our upcoming main event, and connect with more communities, especially those where we haven’t stopped before,” said Captain Jacqueline Zweng, run director. The relay style run starts Feb. 23 in Port Hardy, located at the northern tip of Vancouver Island. Each person tackles a portion of the run each day, stopping in communities along the route to educate people about operational stress injuries and post-traumatic stress disorder. When the runners spring up the steps of the BC Legislature on March 1, they will have covered more than 700 kilometres and raised $250,000.   This year’s team: Matt Carlson, Personnel Support Programs; Constable Samson Haire, Victoria Police Department; Mark Blachurus, Paramedic; Ashley Duncan, Langford Fire Dispatcher; Constable Maria Marciano, RCMP Port Alberni; Constable Daryl Baswick, Victoria Police Department; Mike Bowen, Coast Guard; and Rebecca Schillemat, a military spouse.To support their efforts follow the WWRBC Facebook page or visit their web page at: https://woundedwarriors.ca/events/wounded-warrior-bc-run/

[caption id="attachment_22613" align="alignnone" width="592"] Members of CFB Esquimalt Fire and Rescue’s Climb the Wall team, Alexandria Marshall and Mike Gordon are joined by Fire Chief Geordie Douglas. Douglas stopped by to show his support while the pair were practicing for their upcoming competition. The two are part of a five-person team who will be among 200 firefighters participating in a fundraiser for the Lung Association at the Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre. Photo by Peter Mallett, Lookout[/caption]Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~Five base firefighters will strap on 50 pounds of protective firefighting gear and breathing apparatus Feb. 23 and embark on a 48-storey climb to the top of Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre. Their efforts are part of the 19th annual Climb the Wall fundraiser for the BC Lung Association. “To be certain, it will be a gruelling physical task and will push our bodies to the limit,” said Mike Gordon, who will lead the charge up the stairs. “But efforts like this are part of our job giving back and helping out people in our community who are in need.” Following him up the stairs will be Tristan Thomas, Alexandria Marshall, Jeff Clarkson, and Keith Kershaw.“The idea of a physical challenge to raise awareness around lung disease is a cause that hits close to home for those in the fire service,” said Marshall. To prepare for the 739 steps, the group climb up and down the five flights of stairs at the firehall in full gear. For a competitive edge, the Climb the Wall time to beat is four minutes and 17 seconds. “Our team is up to the task and I know we are sending the right people for this competition,” said fire chief Geordie Douglas. “The training and fundraising work they have been doing in advance of the competition is very...

[caption id="attachment_22610" align="alignnone" width="593"] FS Courbet’s boarding team searches a dhow in the Gulf of Oman while the ship stays close. Courbet’s boarding team found and seized 1.5 metric tonnes of hashish from this vessel. The estimated regional wholesale value of the drugs was $780,288 U.S. - worth many times more on the street. Photo provided by Marine Nationale[/caption]Lt(N) Tony Wright, CTF 150 Public Affairs Officer ~The present rotation of Combined Task Force 150, led by Australia and supported by Canada and New Zealand, reached its halfway point Jan. 22, with a boastful 8,000 kilograms of narcotics seized.CTF 150, headquartered in the Kingdom of Bahrain, is one of three combined task forces within Combined Maritime Forces. Thirty-three member nations work together to promote security, stability, and prosperity across approximately 3.2 million square miles of international waters, which encompass some of the world’s most important shipping lanes.It has been nine weeks since Australia assumed command with nine more to go until command is passed to the incoming French-led rotation.Day to day, the CTF 150 Battle Watch and staff direct ships from participating countries to conduct maritime security operations so legitimate commercial shipping can freely transit the region, and to seek out and seize drug shipments and other illicit cargo that fund and support terrorist operations in the region and around the world.Eight days after Australia assumed command of CTF 150 on Dec. 5, 2019, they had their first drug seizure.French Ship (FS) Courbet, a frigate of the French Marine Nationale, seized 3,500 kilograms of hashish from a dhow in the Gulf of Oman.Not to be outdone, Her Majesty’s Ship (HMS) Defender of the United Kingdom’s Royal Navy followed less than a week later with a seizure of 131 kgs of crystal methamphetamine. Five days into 2020, FS Courbet seized another 1,500kg of hashish...

[caption id="attachment_22607" align="alignnone" width="592"] HMCS Saskatoon transiting from Point Hope Shipyard to Y jetty. Photo by LS Brendan Gibson, MARPAC Imaging Services[/caption]Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~Two Canadian Forces Auxiliary Vessels, tugs Glendale and Parksville, nudged and pulled HMCS Saskatoon from Point Hope Shipyard to Y Jetty in Esquimalt harbour last week, indicating the end of the Maritime Coastal Defence Vessel’s six-month maintenance period. While only a six-kilometre distance, it took over two hours to get the warship back to its home berth. Like a car getting a tune-up, Saskatoon was inspected, repaired or overhauled where needed, repainted, and cleaned as part of a maintenance plan to keep the ship operational for years to come. LCdr Colin Dudeck, Group Technical Officer, Coastal Forces Pacific, says the work is fundamental to preserving and maintaining the ship, one of six in the Pacific Fleet and 12 in the Royal Canadian Navy. If that necessary work isn’t carried out, he says, the operational lifespan of the vessel would be greatly reduced. It has been five years since Saskatoon’s last refit. “These vessels have been getting a lot of use, logging a lot of sea time, and all while sitting in saltwater,” said LCdr Dudeck. “Having the ship in dry dock for an extended period is really the only chance we get to see the ship out of the water and access its hull and effect more invasive maintenance.”To address corrosion, workers at Point Hope grit blasted the ship’s exterior down to bare metal before repainting. Inspections of heavy machinery in the engine room determined what needed to be refurbished, repaired, or replaced. All six alternators, used for supplying electricity to the ship’s propulsion and domestic systems, were overhauled. Improvements also made the to do list, with fryers removed in the galley and replaced with Combi Steamer...

Courtesy Maple Leaf ~Did you know the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) is getting a new operational dress uniform?The current uniform, known as the Naval Combat Dress (NCD), was developed in the early 2000s. It is a three-piece uniform made up of a heavyweight jacket with liner, trousers, and a lightweight shirt. After almost two decades of use, the navy is working to see how it can make improvements.The Department of National Defence and the RCN are trialing a two-piece uniform consisting of a long-sleeved shirt and pants. This new uniform, known as the Naval Enhanced Combat Uniform (NECU), will replace the current operational dress. It will increase comfort and function in all operational environments. The current shirt and jacket will be replaced with the heavier NECU shirt, which will fit better, has minimized bulk in the pockets, and improved functionality with current and future layers such as the Naval Wind and Rain ensemble. The trousers will have a modern cut and fit.Approximately 400 naval members are wearing the new dress as part of the trial. Their views and opinions will be factored into the final decision.Surveys were conducted on the current uniform to identify issues and deficiencies, including a gender-based analysis, which were factored into the new clothing design.Sailors can expect to receive a new uniform starting winter 2021 as a replacement for worn items of the current NCD. Everyone should be completely outfitted over three years.

[caption id="attachment_22562" align="alignnone" width="591"] The winning team of this month’s Seamanship Olympics, the Temporary Holding Platoon. They are pictured here with the Seamanship Olympics Trophy presented by LCdr Chris Maier.[/caption]A/SLt Joshua Miszczak , Seamanship Olympics Coordinator ~Those who come to Naval Fleet School (Pacific) are always eager to begin their careers with the Royal Canadian Navy and to experience the marine environment. Many come out west directly from Canadian Forces Leadership and Recruit School, and some come with prior military experience in the Primary Reserve, or in another element. That experience is always valuable but often doesn’t cover the core skills needed to operate on the water. Chart work, boat handling, knots, rope work, and basic rigging for sail are among the skills needed by the aspiring mariner. To address this, Naval Fleet School (Pacific) has developed monthly Seamanship Olympics: a chance for novice sailors to learn and compete.On Tuesday, Jan. 28, the school held the inaugural Olympics in building N50 by the small boat jetties. Four teams of sailors made up from Personnel Awaiting Training (PAT) Platoons and the Temporary Holding Platoon (THP) attended basic chart work lectures, were given a tour of Sail Training Vessel Tuna to get familiar with its lines, and practiced their knots and rope work.The atmosphere was jovial as the teams moved through their competition stands. By 3 p.m. LCdr Chris Maier was ready to announce the winners.Orca platoon took third place; they represented well but were unable to keep up with the Grizzly Platoon who came in second. However, neither team could catch THP. Their superior cohesion and morale led them to earn the Seamanship Trophy: a remounted pelorus, a worthy prize to inspire those sailors hoping to compete again in February.Special thanks to A/SLt Ladouceur, A/SLt Zanko, A/SLt Gjos, A/SLt Young, and Lt...

[caption id="attachment_22558" align="alignnone" width="591"] Comedian and entertainer Jessica Holmes filled the room in Tribute Tower as she mixed in plenty of comedy while sharing her story of struggling with depression. Photo by Ryan Melanson, Trident Newspaper[/caption]Ryan Melanson, Trident Newspaper ~Jessica Holmes says she’s always wanted to perform her brand of high-energy comedy in front of a Canadian Armed Forces audience.When she finally got that chance on Jan. 29, she was able to bring not just her comedic talents, but also a story of mental health struggles.Holmes, known best for her five-year run on the CBC sketch show Royal Canadian Air Farce, visited CFB Halifax on Bell Let’s Talk Day, as one of the celebrity ambassadors tied to the annual day. It focuses on raising money for mental health initiatives and reducing societal stigmas that surround mental health problems and diagnoses.She spoke to a packed room of Defence Team members at Mr. Mac’s in Tribute Tower, where she opened with musical numbers and a medley of her well-known characters and impersonations from TV, before diving into her years-long battle with depression.“I felt like I was buried in cement, like a cartoon elephant was standing on my chest and wouldn’t get off. That’s how debilitating it was for a time, when I wasn’t able to get out of bed,” Holmes said.Her struggles began with postpartum depression after the birth of her two children, and though she recovered with help from her doctor, she described a dark cloud that came back over her years later.Her second bout with depression lasted more than two years, impacted her ability to work, and put a strain on her marriage, she said.It took help from medical professionals, trying multiple different strategies, and getting support from her family to eventually break through. Now that she is in remission, she’s...

[caption id="attachment_22554" align="alignnone" width="591"] Battle Buddy coin along with Dog Tags created by Leading Seaman (Retired) Debbi Ferguson, owner of Delta Fox Trot Designs.[/caption]Peter Mallett, Staff WriterA military veteran has created a collectable coin for the ill and injured to let them know they are not alone.The Battle Buddy Challenge Coin, says creator Leading Seaman (Retired) Debbi Ferguson, is a symbol of hope and support. Those who purchase them for themselves become part of the Battle Buddy family. Those who buy them as a gift become a Battle Buddy, demonstrating that no one gets left behind. That idea is echoed in the design, with a soldier carrying an injured comrade to safety. On the flip side, two hands interlock in a firm grip, symbolic of reaching out for help, with a maple leaf in the background. The coin has a silver antique finish and comes with a registered number and certificate with the name of the recipient. Ferguson has also turned the design into a Battle Buddy dog tag, as some people prefer to wear the art rather than carry a coin.“The purchaser of the coin is saying to the recipient, I have your back and I am there for you in the darkest hour, and will be there to pick you up in your time of need. I will always have your six.”Ferguson created the coin and dog tag as part of her company Delta Fox Trot Designs, which she opened after leaving the military in 2008. She served for 14 years before a medical release. She says the concept for the coin and terminology was drawn from Second World War infantry, with each soldier on the battlefield assigned a battle buddy or foxhole buddy. This life-or-death pact required one soldier to keep an eye out for threats while their...

[caption id="attachment_22547" align="alignnone" width="591"] Author Helen Edwards poses with a copy of her book Dutchy’s Diaries. The book focuses on the life and times of her father-in-law Commodore John Crispo Inglis Edwards of the Royal Canadian Navy and his travels from 1916 to 1929. Edwards will hold her book launch at the Wardroom on Feb. 18.[/caption]Peter Mallett, Staff WriterHelen Edwards has transformed the contents of a family member’s long-forgotten storage box of navy mementos into a newly released book.Extensive journals and hundreds of photographs were amassed by the Victoria resident’s father in-law, Royal Canadian Navy Commodore John Crispo Inglis Edwards between 1916 and 1929. The treasure trove of historical items remained inside the plain wooden box for decades. She knew the box resided in the family’s basement but had no idea what was inside.Seven years ago, she cracked it open.“My jaw dropped when I realized the contents inside,” said Edwards. Below the jumbled clutter of paper clips, magazines and stationery, she found a large photo album containing over 100 carefully labelled photos mounted on black paper. Most important to the find were four diaries with extensive hand-written entries from his travels around the world. The diaries were all different in size and colour, which leads Edwards to believe they were not navy issued stationery. “The ink on the written passages was very well preserved and while some of the photos and the handwriting on them was a little faded, overall they are in good shape considering they are a century old,” said Edwards. Born in Londonderry, N.S., Edwards was the sixth child of Major Joseph Plimsoll Edwards, a noted Canadian historian, and Emily Susan Crispo.  After attending the Royal Naval College of Canada in 1911, he graduated as part of the school’s second class before embarking on a 39-year career in...