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[caption id="attachment_16621" align="alignnone" width="450"] A member of the Canadian Armed Forces installs a new roof during a HeroWork Radical Renovation at the site of the former Prospect Lake Golf Club. Military and civilian volunteers built a campsite for Victoria-based non-profit Power To Be. Photo by JW Penner, John’s Photography[/caption]Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~Members of CFB Esquimalt’s workforce were an integral part of the crew that turned the recently closed Prospect Lake Golf Course into an inclusive recreational hub for people with physical, mental, or financial barriers.More than 60 base employees tightened their work belts laden with tools and worked alongside more than 300 HeroWork Society volunteers July 7 and 16, to turn former Honorary Captain (Navy) Cedric Steele’s 78-acre parcel of land into a summertime oasis.“My family and I made the decision not to subdivide our land for development but to put it to good use to help the community,” says Steele.The project was organized by the HeroWork Society for another Victoria-based charity Power To Be, who will run the property and provide participants access to nature-based adventures.Personnel from 19 Wing Comox and the Bay Street Armoury were also among the pool of volunteers who successfully completed the project, one that HeroWork Executive Director, Paul Latour dubs a “Radical Renovation.”A long list of upgrades and building projects were completed over the 10 days, including the construction of raised bed camping platforms, a full renovation of two existing structures and their conversion into an education centre and a storage building, a built-from-scratch storage facility for kayak and paddling equipment, two toilet enclosures, a kilometre of pathway and roadways, and extensive landscaping with tee boxes, sand traps, gardens, and fencing.Captain Joe Welsh, a Transportation Officer with Base Logistics, put in multiple full day’s work at the site.“Base Logistics is keen on supporting...

[caption id="attachment_16618" align="alignnone" width="550"] Left: Honorary Captain (Navy) David Labistour scopes out dockyard through the submarine’s periscope. Right: Honorary Captain (Navy) Mandy Farmer climbs down the ladder into a Victoria-Class submarine to check out the living and working space within the boat. Photos by Peter Mallett, Lookout Newspaper[/caption]Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~Clad in their naval combat dress, two West Coast-based Honorary Captains (Navy) climbed down the main access hatch of HMCS Chicoutimi July 13 to tour the living and working space of the long-range hunter-killer submarine.Once inside the boat, HCapt(N) Mandy Farmer and HCapt(N) David Labistour were able to see the internal workings within the black cigar-shaped hull.“The submarine was pretty mind blowing, and I can only imagine what life must be like on board for extended periods of time,” said HCapt(N) Farmer. “What also blew me away was the camaraderie and overwhelming sense of family amongst submariners. The passion and dedication they have for their boats and each other was inspirational.”Submariners Lt(N) David Hendry and CPO2 Jonathan Wright took the two guests through the boat, stopping at the control room to explain how the sonar, control console, and periscope work.The two were also shown the messes, living quarters, weapons storage, and engine rooms.“Having people come down in the submarine and see the work that we do gives them a different and unique perspective on what submarines can offer to Canada,” said Lt(N) Hendry. “They can see the capabilities we have, and the importance of the programme, and what life is like onboard a submarine. It is something that myself and the crew are passionate about, so we always love the opportunity to show off what we do, how we live, and the conditions that we work in.”Before they ventured down the hatch, the two Honorary Captains tried their hand...

[caption id="attachment_16606" align="alignnone" width="450"] HMCS Sackville, Canada’s Naval Memorial, is open for tours for the season, seven days a week from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. on the Halifax Boardwalk. Photo by Ryan Melanson/Trident Staff[/caption]Ryan Melanson, Trident ~HMCS Sackville is one of the top destinations for tourists along the Halifax Waterfront and across the region, and they’ve got the certificate to prove it.The last of Canada’s Second World War Corvettes, now a museum ship under the care of the Canadian Naval Memorial Trust, recently received its 2017 Certificate of Excellence from Trip Advisor. These are awarded each year based on the attractions or businesses that get consistently strong reviews from the website’s users, and Sackville has been chosen a number of years in a row.“It shows that we’re still getting good reports from guests, and we’re pretty pleased to be included in the top 10 year after year, out of about 150 sites in the HRM,” said Doug Thomas, the executive director of the Memorial Trust, after the vessel’s first fully open day of the season on June 26.Every summer, Sackville crewmembers meet visitors or cruise ship passengers who have family naval or Second World War connections, who are military or history buffs, or who are simply moved by touring such an impressive piece of Canadian history and getting a small look at what life was like for sailors during the Battle of the Atlantic.“It’s a place that is often a destination for people when they get here. All of us have had people who come to the ship and describe it as being the main thing they want to see on their cruise or while they’re in Halifax,” Thomas said. “She’s the last one, there simply are no more corvettes of her type.”For those who aren’t planning on stepping...

LS A.M.C. Noye, Community Relations – MPU Esquimalt ~Summer is here, which means more of the defence team are commuting to and from the base on bicycles. School is also out, which means children are off for the sunny season, and a lot of them are riding their bikes in our neighborhood.Local residential housing unit residents in Belmont Park and Work Point,  and Military Police patrol personnel alike have observed children riding without a helmet or adult supervision, and a few near-miss incidents have occurred.MPs will proactively approach youth displaying good cycling habits, and address those requiring reminders about safety. For the last couple of years, MPs have issued “positive tickets” (a free entry to one of the CRD recreation centres), but will also step up prevention and enforcement of the BC Motor Vehicle Act (BCMVA).DO'sAlways come to a full stop at stop signs and red lights. Failure to stop is illegal under the BC Motor Vehicle Act. The fine is $167.Cycle in traffic safely and predictably. Signal before turning, and learn the skills needed to control your bike. Unsafe operation of a bicycle is subject to various parts of Section 144 of the BC Motor Vehicle Act, with fines ranging from $196 to $368.Yield to pedestrians crossing the street and to buses when they are leaving a stop. Failure to yield results in a minimum fine of $168.Take care when passing parked cars to leave enough space for drivers and passengers to open car doors.Helmets must be worn at all times when cycling. Failure to wear your helmet can result in a $29 fine. Safety vests or reflective clothing are also highly recommended.Lock your bike when on the Base. MP and Commissionaires are required to remove any unsecured bikes found on DND property and secure them at the MP...

[caption id="attachment_16597" align="alignnone" width="450"] Corporal Matthew Best, Military Police Unit Esquimalt poses with a Tour de Rock jersey.[/caption]Will Chaster, MARPAC Public Affairs ~Riding 1,100 kilometres from one end of Vancouver Island to the other isn’t relaxing, but it does generate plenty of goodwill.That’s what Corporal Matthew Best of the Military Police Unit Esquimalt and his 23 co-riders are preparing to do when they take part in the Canadian Cancer Society Cops for Cancer Tour de Rock bike ride from Sept. 23 to Oct. 6.Tour de Rock is a nation-wide event that raises awareness and money for cancer patients and cancer research, and has been taking place annually over the past 20 yearsThe Vancouver Island segment of the Tour de Rock raises millions of dollars every year, with most of the proceeds going towards helping children affected by cancer attend Camp Goodtimes, a camp that provides these children and their families with a fun, medically supervised experience.Snaking its way from Port Alice all the way down to Victoria, the ride seeks to reach as many communities as possible.“This is about getting all of Vancouver Island involved,” says Cpl Best.In an effort to visit as many communities as possible, Tour de Rock takes a winding route, with riders cycling between 40 to 140 kilometres in a day. This year’s riders are a diverse group. In addition to Cpl Best, there is another MP from CFB Comox on the ride, plus three Saanich police officers, one Victoria Reserve Constable, RCMP officers, media and corporate riders, and, new to this year, firefighters and paramedics.They have been training since March 5, but are aware there is still a lot more training to do.“There are three groups: a northern, a middle, and a southern Island group, which train separately three days a week. Here in Victoria Tuesdays...

[caption id="attachment_16594" align="alignnone" width="450"] LCdr Judith Harlock from Joint Personnel Support Unit addresses the audience during the town hall. Background from left: Jody Thomas, Senior Associate Deputy Minister and DND Mental Health Co-Champion, Jerry Ryan, Federal Government Dockyard and Trades and Labour Council (East), and Commodore Marta Mulkins, Commander Navy Reserves. Photo by Peter Mallet, Lookout[/caption]Maritime Forces Pacific (MARPAC) hosted a town hall July 7 focussed on building a healthy, respectful, and supportive work environment.The forum, attended by approximately 350 Defence Team military and civilian members, was led by a five-person panel consisting of senior leadership and health care officials. They discussed the MARPAC Health and Wellness Strategy, and described both successes and challenges of program delivery.Keynote speaker Jody Thomas, Senior Associate Deputy Minister (SADM) and DND’s Mental Health Co-Champion, emphasized the importance of getting people the help they need, and the critical role all members of the Defence Team have in achieving this, regardless of rank.She added that communication and openness are critical in improving the delivery of Total Health and Wellness programs and support for the ill, which is a key component in Canada’s new Defence Policy.“Hopefully, many of us will come away from today’s discussion with an understanding that all of us must take a more robust role in raising the flag when someone in your department or unit is not well,” said Thomas.After a lively one-hour, open-microphone question and answer session, Thomas and the other panelists put pen to paper in signing a Mental Health Pledge as part of MARPAC’s Health and Wellness Strategy. Other panelists who signed the document were Commodore Marta Mulkins, Commander of Canada’s Navy Reserves; Commander Charles Cross, Canadian Forces Health Services Centre Pacific; Jerry Ryan, the Federal Government Dockyard and Trades and Labour Council (East) President and DND Mental Health Co-Champion;...

[caption id="attachment_16591" align="alignnone" width="450"] Ordinary Seaman Olivier Gingras uses binoculars with a decorative strap knotted by the Deck Department. Photo by Royal Canadian Navy Public Affairs[/caption]SLt S.M. Anderson, HMCS Ottawa ~The colourful yellow, blue and white lines hang from a hook on the deck head in the small room under the flight deck of HMCS Ottawa.The lines and the sailor working on them, Ordinary Seaman Olivier Gingras, sway slightly with the movements of the ship as  he creates a new binocular strap for the ship’s bridge. His fingers moving dexterously as he plaits the lines into a colourful, intricate whole, turning a simple binocular strap into a symbol of the history and tradition of the Royal Canadian Navy.Naval rope work is as much a symbol of the navy as an anchor or the naval crown. It is a mixture of unique knots and braids that form complex patterns and are used to cover items throughout the ship.Functional rope work can be used to reinforce hawsers or keep lines from chafing, and is a necessary skill when out at sea, far from replacement ropes.Decorative rope work with intricate patterns and colours that cover railings or bell pulls lends to the beauty and pride of a ship, and is an increasingly rare skill for modern sailors.“Rope work has to do with pride on an individual level,” says Chief Petty Officer Second Class John Kranz, Chief Boatswains Mate. “It identifies the ship’s colours as well as how skilled the Deck department is.”From the intricately patterned binocular straps on the bridge to the elaborate knot work on the ship’s paddles that hang in each of the messes, it is clear the art of rope work is alive and well in Ottawa.Ornamental rope work or “tiddly rope work” as the boatswains call it, is a...

[caption id="attachment_16588" align="alignnone" width="450"] Sailors from the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force, HMCS Ottawa, and HMCS Winnipeg after a baseball game. Photos by Royal Canadian Navy Public Affairs[/caption]SLt Matthew Golding, HMCS Ottawa ~While deployed on Exercise Poseidon Cutlass 17, Her Majesty’s Canadian Ships Ottawa and Winnipeg became the first Canadian warships to visit Kure, Japan.Kure, located near Hiroshima in the southern part of Japan, is a major shipbuilding city and the second largest naval base of the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF).The Japanese military welcomed Ottawa and Winnipeg to Kure July 5 with a ceremony in the hangar of Japanese Ship (JS) Umigiri where traditional gifts of flowers were exchanged.Commodore J.B. Zwick, Commander Canadian Fleet Pacific, and the command teams of Ottawa and Winnipeg then met senior naval staff of the JMSDF at Kure Naval Base.The visit continued over the following days with sailors from JS Abukuma and Ottawa touring each other’s ship.“Touring JS Abukuma was really interesting,” said Sub-Lieutenant O’Rourke, a Maritime Surface and Sub-Surface Officer in Ottawa. “They use much of the same equipment as we do; there were far more similarities than differences in the two ships.”Continuing the relationship building, the JMSDF invited the Royal Canadian Navy to join them for a baseball game. A joint team from Ottawa and Winnipeg started the game strong, scoring 11 runs in the first inning. The JMSDF team played well but in the end the Canadian team managed to pull off the victory.“It was a great social sporting event,” said Petty Officer First Class Dagenais, a boatswain from Ottawa. “It was exciting to play baseball with the Japanese, laughing and having fun. After the game we all shook hands, bowed, and exchanged ship’s hats.”After hosting the Canadian reception onboard Winnipeg, the Japanese hosted the ship’s delegation with a reception on board...

[caption id="attachment_16584" align="alignnone" width="450"] Members of 19 Wing Comox secure a fire rescue truck after loading it onto a C-130 Hercules aircraft at CFB Comox in support of Operation Lentus, which is providing support in fighting the wildfires in B.C.’s interior. Photo by Cpl Jeffrey Clement, 19 Wing Imaging[/caption]Lt(N) Melissa Kia, MARPAC PAO ~In response to the threats posed by the wildfire situation in the interior of B.C, the provincial government requested federal assistance from the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) July 9.The CAF declared Operation Lentus active with its principal goal to assist with this provincial emergency.The CAF was well situated to quickly respond as there were already Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) aircraft pre-positioned in Kelowna and CFB Comox in anticipation of this situation growing worse.Two aircraft, a CC-130J Hercules and a CC-177 Globemaster, are presently operating out of CFB Comox. Additionally, three CH-146 Griffon helicopters and two CH-147F Chinook helicopters are supporting the wildfire operations out of Kamloops.The operation has already provided much needed help to the province. Flights from CFB Comox have delivered essential firefighting equipment to Bella Coola, including a Comox fire truck and water distribution systems to battle the flames.RCAF Griffon and Chinook helicopters stationed at Kamloops airport are providing air reconnaissance over Prince George and surrounding communities for provincial authorities, allowing them to better assess the needs of communities affected by the fires, and how best to fight the blazes. As of July 12, more than 14,000 people have been evacuated from their homes and over 33,000 hectares of land have been devastated by the wild fires in multiple regions in the Chilcotin Plateau and Cariboo regions of B.C.The Canadian Armed Forces will continue to assist B.C. on Operation Lentus for the duration of the provincial need for assistance, and will remain in close communication...

Major Grant Whittla, Acting Commanding Officer Base Information Services Esquimalt, and Captain Joshua Weissbock, Operations Officer Base Information Services Esquimalt, presented awards and promotions. [caption id="attachment_16556" align="alignnone" width="560"] MS Solomon Slazenger is promoted to his current rank by Maj Grant Whittla (left), Acting Commanding Officer BIS Esquimalt, and Captain Joshua Weissbock, Operations Officer BIS Esquimalt.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_16557" align="alignnone" width="560"] MCpl Christopher Blake is promoted to his current rank by Maj Grant Whittla and Captain Joshua Weissbock.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_16558" align="alignnone" width="560"] Sgt Philip Berresford is promoted to his current rank by Maj Grant Whittla, and his wife Kathy Berresford.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_16560" align="alignnone" width="560"] MS Mikhail Joukov is promoted to his current rank by and Captain Joshua Weissbock and Maj Grant Whittla.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_16561" align="alignnone" width="560"] MS Bryan Haugh is promoted to his current rank by and Captain Joshua Weissbock and Maj Grant Whittla.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_16562" align="alignnone" width="560"] MS Timothy Shao receives the Bronze Level Sea Service Insignia from Maj Grant Whittla.[/caption]

Commander Ryan Saltel, Commanding Officer of HMCS Calgary, presented awards and promotions on July 3. Photos by MCpl Chris Ward, MARPAC Imaging Services[caption id="attachment_16536" align="alignnone" width="560"] LCdr Mike Stefanson is promoted to his current rank.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_16537" align="alignnone" width="560"] Lt(N) Ji-hwan Park is promoted to his current rank.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_16538" align="alignnone" width="560"] WO Jaime Knox is promoted to her current rank.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_16539" align="alignnone" width="560"] PO2 Brian Riech is presented the Canadian Forces’ Decoration First Clasp.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_16540" align="alignnone" width="560"] PO2 Rene Chalifoux is presented the Canadian Forces’ Decoration.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_16541" align="alignnone" width="560"] PO2 Rene Chalifoux is presented the Canadian Forces’ Decoration.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_16542" align="alignnone" width="560"] PO2 Bradley Warford is presented the Canadian Forces’ Decoration.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_16543" align="alignnone" width="560"] Lt(N) Adam Bailey is presented the Operational Service Medal.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_16544" align="alignnone" width="560"] Lt(N) Jeriel Soriano is presented the Operational Service Medal.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_16545" align="alignnone" width="560"] PO2 Owen Demarce is presented the Operational Service Medal.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_16546" align="alignnone" width="560"] WO Jaime Knox is presented the MARPAC Bravo Zulu award.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_16547" align="alignnone" width="560"] MCpl Mark Luke is presented the MARPAC Bravo Zulu award.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_16548" align="alignnone" width="560"] SLt Place is presented the Commanding Officer’s Bravo Zulu award.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_16549" align="alignnone" width="560"] LS Adam Carnegie is presented the Commanding Officer’s Bravo Zulu award.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_16550" align="alignnone" width="560"] LS Matthew Cormier is presented the Sailor of the Quarter.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_16551" align="alignnone" width="560"] CPO1 Paul Fenton is presented the Canadian Forces Physical Fitness Award for Aerobic Excellence White Seal.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_16552" align="alignnone" width="560"] LS J.B. Silva is presented the Canadian Forces Physical Fitness Award for Aerobic Excellence Red Seal.[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_16530" align="alignnone" width="450"] A RAVEN program facilitator provides instruction on how to halt and detain a potential threat (2016).[/caption]Will Chaster, MARPAC Public Affairs ~Naval Fleet School (Pacific) staff are gearing up to host another round of Aboriginal youth wanting a glimpse into military life, and a possible career in the Canadian Armed Forces.Forty candidates from across Canada are in Esquimalt July 10 to start six weeks of Basic Military Qualifications as part of the Raven Program.This includes a military haircut and getting their full uniform and kit.The program has two parts, a culture camp and basic training as new recruits. At the end of training they can continue as a Primary Reservist, make a component transfer to the Regular Force, or release.Training emphasizes basic military skills, weapons handling, first aid, and ethical values. Since physical fitness is an integral component of military service, part of the course is spent on fitness training.“Members vary in age from 16 to their late 20s and come from all over Canada; it really is fantastic seeing people from different parts of Canada come together for this course,” says Lieutenant (Navy) Alicia Morris, Leadership Officer at Naval Fleet School (Pacific).Raven begins with recognition of First Nation’s culture through a Culture Camp at the Canadian Forces Maritime Experimental Test Ranges in Nanoose. Over four days participants explore their own culture and the cultures of other First Nations peoples by taking part in different ceremonies and traditions hosted by three instructors, usually Metis, Inuit and another member of the First Nations people.Once finished, the youth head back to the Work Point barracks to start the training.Graduation is set for Aug. 17.If participants in Raven wish to join the naval reserve following the completion of the program, they can then complete their Naval Environmental Training Program (NETP) without...

Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~Healing through sports was very evident the last week of June as 12 ill or injured military members tried three on-the-water activities and one shore-based as part of Soldier On.Former and current Canadian Armed Forces members donned life jackets, and, with paddle in hand, ventured into the ocean in kayaks, on paddle boards and as a group in a dragon boat. On shore they limbered up with yoga.Petty Officer First Class Joe Kiraly from the Joint Personnel Support Unit, which manages the Soldier On program, travelled from Ottawa to host the event. He is part of the ill and injured group having fallen from a ladder that left him with back, shoulder and neck injuries.“Participation with the program is a rewarding opportunity for me to not only help others but also help myself in the healing process,” he says.“A recurring comment I hear at every event for first time participants is ‘this is the best I’ve felt in years.’ Hearing those comments is one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve ever had in my military career,” he adds.From 2007, Soldier On has supported more than 3,200 ill and injured members to acquire recreational sporting gear, and to participate in everything from alpine skiing to fishing to multi-activity events such as the paddling camp. Since its creation the program has disbursed more than $5 million in public and private sector donations for the purchase of equipment and to cover the costs of hosting events.PO1 Kiraly says there is a common bond between all ranks, trades, and military occupations, and that they share the same bond, either through their service or their injury.“Many participants indicate they feel a loss after being separated from that structure in the military, so it’s rewarding to see this instant reconnection with their peers.”For more information about Soldier On and future events and activities visit their website at www.SoldierOn.ca or their Facebook or Twitter pages.[caption id="attachment_16527" align="alignnone" width="560"] Volunteers and participants of the...

[caption id="attachment_16517" align="alignnone" width="450"] Two of the five member team that won the CANEX Championship Gaming Series last year, Cpl Jeff Johnson and CPl Michael Ryer were presented with the trophy and first place prizes by Commodore Sean Cantelon, Director General Morale and Welfare Services; Captain(N) Chris Sutherland, Base Commander, CFB Halifax; Canadian Forces Morale and Welfare Services, CWO Guy Pelleteir; and Larry Mohr, Senior VP of Commercial Services (CANEX and SISIP Financial), at the opening ceremony for the new CANEX and SISIP office at CFB Halifax Oct. 16, 2016. Team members not present were Jonathan Pulsifier, MCpl Terry Stafford and Cpl Mitch Talbot who helped take the first place title in the first ever CANEX gaming series.[/caption]Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~Canada’s military store is once again offering video gamers a chance to compete for $7,000 in prizes when the CANEX Championship Gaming Series (CCGS) returns next month.The 2nd Annual CCGS launches on the Twitch Game Platform Aug. 18 to 20, with this year’s competition featuring six-player teams matching their gaming skills in the popular online combat-based action video game Overwatch®.Vivian Ngai, Segment Marketing Manager for CANEX, a Division of the Canadian Forces Morale and Welfare Services (CFMWS), says they and their corporate sponsors are excited about the return of the gaming contest following the success of last year’s inaugural launch.Last year featured the video game Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, and Ngai says it wasn’t just the game action itself, but also the interaction between players and spectators that created a social media buzz.“We had an overwhelming response last year with participation numbers of over 4,000 users and viewers either playing, watching the action on Twitch, or participating in our CCGS live event contests on the CANEX Facebook page,” says Ngai. “Our target audience are gamers from the Canadian Armed Forces...

Hundreds of visitors swarmed Canada Place to check out the many military displays. Plus the Naden Band of the Royal Canadian Navy and the Band of the 15th Field Regiment, Royal Canadian Artillery, participated in the Vancouver Canada Day parade.In addition, HMCS Regina welcomed over 100 members of the Chinese and Sri-Lankan community on board July 3 as part of Canada 150. RAdm Art McDonald and HCapt(N) Chan greeted visitors and spoke about the importance of inclusivity and diversity in the Canadian Armed Forces. The visit to Regina included tours of the ship. The community members also sat for a briefing that highlighted the navy’s activities in Indo-Asia Pacific and efforts in diversifying its workforce to be more inclusive.Photos by Lt(N) Melissa Kia, MARPAC PA

[caption id="attachment_16502" align="alignnone" width="450"] Photo courtesy HMCS Ottawa[/caption]SLt S.M. Anderson, HMCS Ottawa ~It was business as usual in the port of Incheon, South Korea, on Canada Day.The air was filled with the noise of a busy port as ships unloaded cargo in the humid air. For HMCS Ottawa, July 1 was far from a typical Saturday; it was Canada’s 150th birthday and together with HMCS Winnipeg, the ships’ crew would be the first Canadians to celebrate this milestone.On that hazy morning, the ship’s company assembled on the flight deck in tropical white uniforms, joined by Vice-Admiral Lloyd, Commander of the Royal Canadian Navy. As the pipe from the boatswains call cut through the morning air, Ottawa’s crew stood at attention as the flag was raised, marking the first Canadian ‘territory’ to celebrate Canada 150 12 hours ahead of the rest of Canada.“It was a real privilege to take part in the colours ceremony, to be the first Canadians to celebrate Canada Day,” said Leading Seaman Peer, a Medical Technician.Celebrating Canada Day on the other side of the world was just one highlight of an eventful port visit to Incheon from June 26 to July 2. After partnering with Republic of Korea Navy (ROKN) for naval exercises, Ottawa continued to foster understanding between the two navies by touring ROKN host ship, Cheon Ji.The Canadian warship returned the favour by hosting ROKN sailors onboard; tours reinforced the relationship between the Royal Canadian Navy and the ROKN as sailors noted the many similarities between the two navies.On June 29, Ottawa crewmembers joined sailors from the ROKN for a friendly soccer match at the Incheon Naval Base. Differences in culture and language were set aside for the mutual love of sport. The two teams played hard in the hot afternoon with the ROKN eventually...

Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~A new recruiting program set to launch at two test bases will give women considering a career in the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) an intimate look at military life.The rollout of the Women in Force pilot project involves 120 participants taking part in two 10-day events.They will be split between CFB Borden’s Logistics Training Centre for those speaking English, and for French speaking women at the Leadership Recruit School at Saint-Jean Garrison, Que. from Aug. 14 to 23.Two shorter three-day weekend sessions will also be offered at the same venues in late October.The program is in line with the Chief of Defence Staff’s commitment to increase the percentage of women in the military to 25.1 per cent by 2026, says Lieutenant-Colonel Suzanne Raby Deputy Commander, Canadian Forces Recruiting Group Headquarters.“The whole purpose of Women in Force is to get the information out there and let Canadian women realize there are a multitude of career paths available to them in the armed forces,” she says.LCol Raby is 37 years into her CAF career and can speak first-hand about the expanding role of women in Canada’s military. She was in the first wave of women to graduate from the Royal Military College in 1984.“When I joined the military only five per cent of our membership were women, and women were restricted from serving in many of the front line occupations, such as infantry soldier, fighter pilot or submariner, so indeed we [women] have come a long way since I joined,” says LCol Raby.The Women in Force program will emphasize the current career opportunities in all 106 occupations.Participants will reside on base, eat at the mess and interact with military members. Tours and hands-on exercises, such as the CAF fitness test and firing a weapon, will also broaden their...

[caption id="attachment_16463" align="alignnone" width="450"] Lt(N) Anis Gedeon high-fives children at the Courage, Compassion and Commitment House for children battling cancer in Sri Lanka. Photo by LS Simon Trudeau[/caption]Padre Matthew Squires, HMCS Winnipeg ~In support of Poseidon Cutlass 2017’s mission to strengthen international relations through regional engagements, members of HMCS Winnipeg ventured to the Courage, Compassion, and Commitment (CCC) Foundation, in Colombo, Sri Lanka May 23.CCC Foundation is a non-profit charitable organization founded in 2003 by Jetha Devapura, a Sri Lankan born Australian. He fundraised to build a “Ronald Macdonald” type house for families of children battling cancer. It is the largest transition home in Sri Lanka with 194 beds that serves as a home away from home for outpatients and their caregivers.Winnipeg started off the visit by giving a $5,000 donation from the ship and Boomer’s Legacy.Then 13 crewmembers spent time with the children and their caregivers.“We had an unforgettable time with the children coloring pictures, playing with Play-Doh, and teaching them how to make bracelets,” said LS Klarck Montemayor.  The Play-Doh was donated by LS Montemayor, and the bracelets were made with gun line patterned after the lanyards many sailors attach to their knives. Following the visit, Kamilka Perera, a committee member of the CCC house, expressed her appreciation to Padre Matthew Squires in writing: “As I was leaving CCC house, three female adult patients were seated on the bench outside near the gate and were braiding the wrist bands with eager smiles on their faces, and this is the kind of positivity we need to create. It certainly has a ripple effect.”Padre Squires said it was difficult to say who was impacted more profoundly by the visit, the children or the sailors.“I think we learned much about compassion, resilience, and the strength of unity as it was exemplified that...

[caption id="attachment_16458" align="alignnone" width="450"] LS Craig Langille chats with children in Mumbai, India. Photo by Padre Lt(N) Matthew Squires[/caption]THE NAVY JOINS AN ARMY TO FEED THE HUNGRY IN MUMBAILS Brendan Gibson, HMCS Winnipeg ~Thirty-two members of HMCS Winnipeg took time out of their schedule May 14 while in Mumbai, India, to join forces with the Robin Hood Army (RHA) and distribute a warm meal to those in need.The venture was organized by the ship’s Chaplain, Padre Matthew Squires.“We had a blast playing games with the local children, establishing connections with families, distributing food, and even demonstrating some drill for the kids under the direction of the ship’s Coxswain, CPO1 Sylvain Jaquemot,” said Padre Squires.RHA is a volunteer-based organization that gets surplus food from local restaurants to the less fortunate, while providing fun activities and education to disadvantaged children. Since its start in 2014, RHA has fed more 1.8 million people and is currently established in cities throughout India, and in 11 other countries.“Our community relations visits give us an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others at a humanitarian level, as well as recharge our spirits after being away from our families for extended periods,” said MS Kevin Simons. “There is nothing more refreshing than having smiles returned by the lives we touch to help us push through to our next event.”With the assistance of RHA, Winnipeg was able to make a small, yet profound, contribution to a huge cause. The “take away” on opportunities like these is best summed up by OS Anthony Brockmoeller who said, “Seeing the impact of our contributions while deployed is not always easy until we serve others and see the joy it brings.”

[caption id="attachment_16454" align="alignnone" width="450"] Commodore J.B. Zwick, Commander of Canadian Fleet Pacific, is presented a flower necklace by two South Korean children, during HMCS Winnipeg’s visit to Jeju Naval Base, South Korea, June 22. Photo by Cpl Carbe Orellana, MARPAC Imaging Services[/caption]OS Darien R. Wickman, HMCS Winnipeg ~After a successful joint military exercise with Japanese Ship (JS) Inazuma, Her Majesty’s New Zealand Ship (HMNZS) Te Kaha, HMCS Winnipeg and Ottawa waved goodbye and came alongside the island of Jeju, South Korea, June 21.The following morning, after a series of planning meetings, Ottawa and Winnipeg departed the hospitable Jeju Civilian-Military Port Complex for the next stage of Poseidon Cutlass 17, a bilateral exercise with the Republic of Korea.Republic of Korea Ship (ROKS) Kang Gam Chan spearheaded the exercise that included ROKS Yul Gok Yi, ROKS Suncheon, Ottawa and Winnipeg. The objective of the exercise was to promote good relations between allied countries, as well as to provide Force Generation training for the operator trades.“Working with the Koreans proved very similar to working with North American navies. They had an excellent execution of their exercise, primarily improved by the effective distribution of their program,” said Sub-Lieutenant David Hughes, a bridge watchkeeper on board Ottawa.The ROKN-RCN bilateral exercise demonstrated both the efficiency and interoperability between the navies of the allied countries. The three-day program was tightly scheduled to include many forms of military operations. These included, but were not limited to serials exercising various methods of communication, formation maneuvering, boarding exercises, gunnery, and operational scenarios.“During our interactions with the ROK Navy, the operations teams participated in multiple Above Water Warfare and Anti-Submarine Warfare exercises,” said Ordinary Seaman Braeden Hart-Young, a Naval Combat Information Operator. “An operation of this scale showcases our allied navy’s potential to overcome both communication and technological barriers to successfully...

[caption id="attachment_16449" align="alignnone" width="450"] RAdm Art McDonald personally awarded the Legion of Honour Medal to Frank Poole with wife Melodie was by his side. Inset: Frank Poole’s portrait taken during his military career.[/caption]Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~Second World War and Korean War veteran Frank Poole admits the Legion of Honour medal recently bestowed upon him is perhaps the most precious he’s received to date.Capt (Retired) Poole, 93, was presented France’s highest order of military merit by Rear-Admiral Art McDonald, Commander Maritime Forces Pacific, during a ceremony at Veterans Memorial Lodge at Broadmead.A client of the Veterans Health Centre Day Program at Broadmead, Poole says all of the 14 medals he received for his 25-year military career are important, but the Legion of Honour holds special cultural significance for his entire family.“This is so big and my family members are in awe,” says Poole. “I grew up in Cape Breton and can trace my family tree back to Normandy, and my wife of 59 years [Melodie] is of Acadian descent. So yes this is a truly great moment for the whole family.”The Legion of Honour award was originally established in 1802 by Napoleon Bonaparte  and has been awarded to approximately 93,000 veterans worldwide. In 2015 the French Government began honouring 1,000 Canadian veterans with the award to commemorate the 70th Anniversary of the D-Day Landing.Veterans in line for the award receive a package containing a letter from Nicholas Chapuis, Ambassador for France to Canada, and their medal that signifies the rank of Knight of the French National Order of the Legion of Honour. The award itself is a five-armed cross with a v-shaped cut out at the end of each point, and surrounded by a wreath of laurel leaves.RAdm McDonald, who also hails from Cape Breton, presented the medal to Poole...

[caption id="attachment_16446" align="alignnone" width="450"] From left to right: Chief Petty Officer First Class Gilles Gregoire, Formation Chief; CPO1 Robert DeProy, Petty Officer Second Class Andre Aubry, and Rear-Admiral Art McDonald, Commander Maritime Forces Pacific, at the Wall of Valour monument June 26. Photo by Ed Dixon, MARPAC Imaging Services[/caption]Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~The names of three Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) Medal of Bravery recipients were added to Signal Hill’s Wall of Valour monument during a ceremony in Esquimalt, June 26.The Wall of Valour, located below the Wardroom just before the Dockyard Gates, now displays the names of 36 sailors including the most recent: Chief Petty Officer First Class Robert Deproy, Chief Petty Officer Second Class André Aubry, and Petty Officer Second Class Evan Beaton.The award was first created by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II in 1972.Rear Admiral Art McDonald, Commander Maritime Forces Pacific (MARPAC), presided over the ceremony.“The efforts of all three individuals embody the true spirit of the award and exemplify the ethos of service to Canada,” said RAdm McDonald, who noted their “selfless acts of heroism” by willingly stepping up “in the face of danger.”“Your exemplary actions were indisputably products of your own strength of character,” he said to them. “You are role models, gentlemen, and your actions have inspired others in our organization, your country, and most importantly in each other.”CPO1 Robert DeProyOn May 19, 2012, CPO1 DeProy risked his life attempting to save fellow diver CPO2 Richard Boileau, who eventually died of his injuries caused by a malfunctioning breathing regulator.CPO1 DeProy emphasized the importance of training in his rescue attempt, but said receiving the honour and spot on the Wall of Valour was tinged with sadness and is “bitter-sweet” because CPO2 Boileau did not survive.“I’ve been diving an awfully long time, and in the navy we...

DND ~Over the past 16 months, National Defence’s Directorate of Military Pay and Allowances Processing (DMPAP), with assistance and support from the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN), has been verifying the payment of Sea Duty Allowance (SDA) for personnel who were posted to HMC Ships undergoing refit from September 2001 to June 2014.This review of Sea Duty Allowance was initiated following the successful resolution of a grievance submitted by an RCN sailor who noticed a discrepancy between the existing policy and how it was being applied. In fact, at the request of the RCN, DMPAP conducted a wider investigation into the matter and found that more than 4,600 sailors were incorrectly not paid Sea Duty Allowance during a 13-year period.The policy application discrepancy has since been corrected and all sailors impacted by this error are having their pay accounts corrected. As a result of the review, the RCN reports that over 4,600 affected personnel have been collectively paid just under an additional $17 million in Sea Duty Allowance entitlements.However, the audit also uncovered other inaccuracies that needed to be fixed. Unfortunately, 63 members were overpaid during the same time period, amounting to approximately 1.3% of the total number of accounts reviewed. Many of these were as a result of incorrect SDA level increases being entered into the pay system.It is the RCN’s collective responsibility to ensure that taxpayer money is spent responsibly, and that members only receive the compensation they’re entitled to.At the same time, the RCN deals with such matters respectfully and with much regard to the personal circumstances of its sailors.The 63 members affected by the overpayment are being notified of the issue, and are being given time to decide on a repayment plan that best suits their respective situations.Affected members are encouraged to seek assistance from their pay...

[caption id="attachment_16404" align="alignnone" width="450"] Corporal Jason Turgeon prepares infrastructure at Camp Adaži, Latvia, on May 23, in advance of the arrival of NATO’s enhanced Forward Presence multi­national battlegroup. Photos by Corporal Colin Thompson, Joint Task Force-Europe[/caption]Steven Fouchard, Army Public Affairs ~The Canadian Army is working with Latvian colleagues to ensure a NATO enhanced Forward Presence multinational battlegroup in Latvia will have comfortable living conditions when they arrive before year-end.This work is just one component of Operation Reassurance, Canada’s contribution to ongoing, NATO-led defence and deterrence measures in Eastern and Central Europe.Army combat engineers, members of New Brunswick-based 4 Engineer Support Regiment (4 ESR), arrived in Latvia in April to begin temporary infrastructure projects at Camp -Adaži, which lies northeast of the capital Riga.The 50 members on the ground face a considerable challenge in providing shelter and many other necessities for about 1,200 troops from the six allied nations that make up the battlegroup.In the following interview, Lieutenant-Colonel Hugo Delisle, Commanding Officer of the Canadian Theatre Opening Team, provides an update on what they have accomplished.Canada is one of four Framework Nations in this battlegroup.What does that mean and how does it impact your work on the ground?The Battle Group will be made up of six nations that will be working as part of a Latvian Land Forces Infantry Brigade.The Host Nation is Latvia, the Framework Nation is Canada, and the Sending Nations are Albania, Italy, Poland, Slovenia and Spain. Each has different responsibilities: Canada as the Framework Nation is responsible to work as a conduit for the Sending Nations (SN) through which to communicate with the Host Nation.It also is responsible, along with the Host Nation, to ensure all required support is available to the Sending Nations on their arrival. This includes office spaces, accommodations, internet, space management, and financial...

[caption id="attachment_16400" align="alignnone" width="450"] MS Kevin Simons joins in a sports activity at the Ang Mo Kio Training and Development Centre.[/caption]Padre Matthew Squires, HMCS Winnipeg ~Eighteen members of HMCS Winnipeg shared the June 2 morning with residents and staff of the Ang Mo Kio Training and Development Centre (AMK TDC) as a community relations initiative in support of Poseidon Cutlass 17.Ang Mo Kio is one of six training and development centres run by an organization in Singapore named the Movement for the Intellectually Disabled (MINDS). It is the mission of MINDS to provide care, improve well-being, and facilitate the cognitive development of Singaporeans in need.This is not the first time the Royal Canadian Navy has been involved in supporting MINDS. In January 2016, 17 members of Winnipeg visited the Fernvale Gardens School during Operation Reassurance, and during WESTPLOY 2016 HMCS Vancouver visited the Eunos Training and Development Centre.The morning began with a briefing by Isaac Loh, AMK TDC Training Officer. Loh’s brief raised awareness of the Centre’s work and provided situational awareness in preparation for the sailor’s morning with the clients. Half of the crew volunteered their time conducting much-needed maintenance on the facility, while the other half joined the clients in a nature walk coupled with sports activities.Upon completion of the morning, the crew distributed goodie bags prepared by Swee Leng Ng, Public Affairs Officer of the High Commission of Canada in Singapore. Each goodie bag was distributed with pride, testifying to Canadian generosity while displaying a Canada 150 logo.When reflecting on his time with the residents of the Centre Leading Seaman Kyle Pillar said, “As members of the CAF we have the ability to provide aid and care to those in need, whether the need be big or small. Spending the morning with the kids at the Ang...

DND ~In honour of Canada 150 celebrations, the Department of National Defence and the Canadian Armed Forces have launched a commemorative Canada 150 Defence Interactive Map.Canada 150 Defence Interactive Map: Mapping our Past and Present is a new online map that illustrates the impact the Canadian Armed Forces have had in communities around the country.Spanning 15 decades of Canada’s military history, this map details interesting events from the past as well as present-day accomplishments that pop up in the exact geographic location where they actually happened.Curious about the Snowbirds in Moose Jaw or the Cadets in Whitehorse? Filter your search by decade, organization, province, or territory to find out.One hundred and fifty years of Canadian history is an important milestone for our nation. It is an opportunity to share the stories and show the impact of past and present members of the Canadian Armed Forces and Defence personnel in shaping our country.Check out the Canada 150 Defence Interactive Map http://caf-fac.ca/defence-150-map or by searching #DefenceMap on Twitter and participate in the conversation online. The map will also be featured on touch-screen kiosks during Canada 150 exhibits across the country throughout spring and summer 2017.

[caption id="attachment_16390" align="alignnone" width="450"] SLt Kassandra O’Rourke (left) meets her New Zealand counterpart, SLt Caitlin Wiseman, who spent a few days sailing with HMCS Ottawa.[/caption]SLt Kassandra O’Rourke, HMCS Ottawa ~I had the privilege of spending a few days on board the New Zealand frigate Te Kaha during the recent Pacific Guardian Exercise, a multi-national event with the goal of improving cooperation and interoperability between navies.The four-day exercise off the South East Coast of Japan was led by Commander Canadian Fleet Pacific and included HMCS Ottawa, HMCS Winnipeg, JS Inazuma and HMNZS Te Kaha.The Royal New Zealand Navy is incredibly professional and knows how to balance the hard work associated with life at sea. The ship’s motto is ‘He Ponanga Kaha’ or ‘Service with Strength.’I was picked up and transported over to their flight deck by their Sea Sprite helicopter. Once I arrived on board I was shown to the wardroom and to my cabin where I shared a room with one other female bridgewatchkeeper.I started noticing early on how similar our navies were to each other.The bridge equipment is almost identical to our own. One big difference I found interesting was that, although their ship is only slightly smaller than ours, they sail with 50 fewer personnel than we do.Their bridge watchkeepers must also attain three separate tickets to get qualified in comparison to our one. They will be fully qualified upon achieving their final ticket, whereas we must stand a Naval Officer Professional Qualification board in order to be promoted to Lieutenant (Navy).That first afternoon, I participated in a boxing fitness class. At first I was unaware of how the class was going to be broken down. I saw the crew putting on the boxing gloves that were littered all over the flight deck, so I ­followed suit. An unexpected steering gear breakdown drill pulled the instructor away to different duties. Suddenly a voice recording came over the work out speakers with a countdown starting at 10. With about...

James Vassallo, Base Public Affairs ~Coming from a small town in rural Saskatchewan with wheat fields below and a big sky above, a young Jason Boyd wanted to fly.“I wanted to be a fighter pilot as a kid,” says Capt(N) Boyd, sheepishly acknowledging the impact the film “Top Gun” had on him while growing up. “It wasn’t that I was so naïve that I didn’t know we had a navy, but the movie was the only real connection I had to the military.”However, CFB Esquimalt’s new Base Commander did have a connection to public service, something inspired in him by his father who served with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police for 41 years.After being approached by the Royal Military College with an offer to play hockey, get a good education, and a guaranteed job that would also allow him to serve, he jumped at it.“They deemed I wasn’t fit to fly an aircraft but my second choice was a Maritime Surface and Sub-Surface (MARS) officer,” says Capt(N) Boyd. “All I knew was I wanted to do something operational and be in a leadership position. I’ve never looked back since.”His time at the ice rink - supported by what he describes as some of the best lessons in leadership he ever received - gave him an appreciation of how important consistency is, and the ways to be part of, and support a team.“The things you experience in team sports are so applicable to everyday life,” he says. “You face adversity, you learn how to deal with the ups and downs, but you work together to overcome that and accomplish goals. This bonds you with people.”With this philosophy in place, his career as a MARS Officer led him from ships - as a bridge watchkeeper in Her Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Iroquois;...

James Vassallo, Base Public Affairs ~Early in his time as Base Commander, Commodore Steve Waddell, promoted to his current rank earlier this month, began to address the issues that landed in his sights.He made a plea to whomever was placing sharp objects on the ball fields around CFB Esquimalt to stop, and just come and talk to him about it instead.Seeing the impact of early morning starts – missed breakfasts, childcare conflicts, worsened commutes – he moved Base Divisions to later in the day, making it less formal and allowing people to ask questions or bring forward issues after inspection.Concerned over the availability and condition of residential housing units at remote sites, he worked to change that.By themselves these are perhaps small things, but together they represent something significant: a way of leading, and an understanding of him as a leader.“After almost 28 years in the navy I don’t think I’ve really changed who I am,” he says. “I recognize the value of our output has always been based on the aggregate of the efforts of everybody. Going around talking to people, understanding their issues and validating they’re part of a greater activity, whether big or small, that was always important to me.”That “greater activity” was a deceivingly simple sentiment: get warships to sea for Canadians. In practice there was always the potential for things to become more complex given a diverse civilian and military workforce, significant interdependencies between internal and external organizations, and needs spread over a wide range of areas – hospital services, IT infrastructure, human resources issues, support for military ­families – that go far beyond operationalizing a military.“Unlike a ship, it can be harder to build esprit de corps across a diverse portfolio like the base, but I always reminded people about all the valuable things...

[caption id="attachment_16380" align="alignnone" width="450"] (Centre) Rear-Admiral Art McDonald, Commander Maritime Forces Pacific; former Base Commander Commodore Steve Waddell (left); and incoming Base Commander Captain (Navy) Jason Boyd (right), sign off on papers officially appointing Capt(N) Boyd to his new post during a Change of Command Ceremony at Museum Square, June 22.[/caption]By Peter Mallett, Staff Writer ~Last Thursday, with the summer sun in full bloom, Captain (Navy) Jason Boyd became the new Base Commander in a change of command ceremony brimming with warmth and fond farewells.First to the podium was Elmer George representing the Songhees Nation. He gave a special blessing that reaffirmed the unique connection CFB Esquimalt has with the First Nations communities of Greater Victoria.Humour, pride and humility were well woven into Commodore Steve Waddell’s address. Having spent one of the longer terms as the “Fourteenth Mayor” – a month shy of three years – he made certain to acknowledge all units, both military and civilian, for their efforts supporting the fleet.“Spending three years as CFB Esquimalt’s Commander was a unique opportunity to forge deep bonds across the region and witness the incredible contributions our people make to each other, the community and our mission as part of the Department of National Defence,” he said.Then, with the military parade neatly lined row upon row on the museum parade square, and hundreds of spectators assembled to witness the event, Cmdre Waddell, Rear-Admiral Art McDonald, Commander Maritime Forces Pacific, and Capt(N) Boyd all signed the command change certificates signifying the legal transfer and change in leadership.During his remarks, RAdm McDonald likened the Base Commander’s job to that of a Mayor, noting the “city” of CFB Esquimalt has its own fire department, police force, schools, and even a newspaper. Cmdre Waddell, he said, “showed dedication and tact” while fostering relationships both inside...