Canadian Army Reserve’s second female door gunner welcomes the challenge

Sergeant Brigitte O’Driscoll on board a CH-146 Griffon helicopter flying over the 5 Canadian Division Support Base Gagetown training area after a shooting exercise. Sgt O’Driscoll, an Army Reservist from Montreal, is just the second female Canadian soldier to become a Door Gunner. Photo: Provided by Sergeant Brigitte O’Driscoll.

Steven Fouchard, Army Public Affairs

A Montreal-based Army Reservist has attained the distinction of becoming the second female door gunner in Canadian Army history.

While Sergeant Brigitte O’Driscoll of the Royal Montreal Regiment (RMR) does not consider herself a trailblazer in that sense, she does hope others will see what is possible for themselves by her example.

“People give me congratulations and it's fun but in the end that's not really why I'm doing it. If it inspires other girls and women to look into a career in the military or just encourages them to push through their limits and not be held back, that’s great.”

Canada’s first female door gunner was Corporal Alexandra Roy, with 430 Tactical Helicopter Squadron, based in Valcartier, Quebec. See Related Links for her story.

Door gunners are Army members trained to provide cover to those on the ground and the crews and passengers on CH-146 Griffon helicopters, which are operated by Royal Canadian Air Force personnel.

Griffons are employed in a variety of missions ranging from search and rescue, reconnaissance, and casualty evacuations.

Door gunners are drawn from the Army’s combat arms trades, Sgt O’Driscoll explained, because they already have relevant training. That said, training for the job within Air Force lines did present challenges.

“In terms of weapons handling and the actual tactics it wasn't that hard,” she recalled. “But in terms of learning about the Air Force and how it works, the information coming at you is like a fire hose,” she recalled.

“I remember sitting in my first brief and not understanding a single thing that was being said. So learning the terminology they use, the way that they operate, it took a lot of time and studying but you catch on pretty quickly once you get the gist of it.”

The month-long training period began just outside Montreal in Saint-Hubert, Quebec and eventually took Sgt O’Driscoll to 5th Canadian Division Support Base Gagetown in New Brunswick and finally to Twentynine Palms, California.

The latter is home to the U.S. Marine Corps’ Air Ground Command Center, which includes a massive desert training area that Sgt O’Driscoll said provides a highly realistic experience reflecting current operational theatres in Africa and the Middle East.

“We flew down to California from Saint-Hubert in the Griffons, which was an awesome experience,” she added. “To fly over the Rockies and the Grand Canyon and things like that was pretty cool.”

Sgt O’Driscoll decided to pursue the opportunity after seeing a flyer advertising a door gunner selection process at RMR’s headquarters and saw it as an opportunity to expand her knowledge and skillset.

“Flying around in a chopper is not something you get to do every day in the infantry and it's always a big treat,” she said. “And it's just a different environment than what you're used to in the infantry. It's a whole new world basically, so I was really keen on learning a lot more.”

She hopes to eventually deploy and apply the training in an operational environment – an ambition that has been stoked by speaking with another Montreal-area Reservist who has served in Iraq.

“Hopefully I'll be deploying next year or maybe the year after but, yeah – it's a huge goal to be able to deploy and operate as a door gunner in theatre.”

Sgt O’Driscoll joined the RMR in 2013 and said she would recommend it to anyone.

“It's just a great job for pushing your limits, making new friendships, and exploring a lot. I know it's the typical thing that people say, that you get to travel a lot, but I have been to a lot of places and done things that I wouldn't have been able to do if I wasn't in the military.”

Military chaplain introduced into 2019 Bold Eagle Program

Captain Oliver Edwards, a padre with Bold Eagle 2019, observes the dancers of the 28th Annual Muskoday First Nation Traditional Powwow in Muskoday, Saskatchewan on August 3, 2019.

By Ashley Materi, 3rd Canadian Divison Public Affairs

Wainwright, Alberta — The Bold Eagle summer Indigenous program, run by the Canadian Army, celebrates its 30th anniversary in 2019, and for the first time, it has incorporated a military chaplain into the program.

Captain Oliver Edwards, with 20th Independent Field Battery in Lethbridge, who joined the South Alberta Light Horse as an Armour Officer in 2015 before eventually transitioning to the chaplaincy, says that he is humbled to be a part of the support team for the 2019 program recruits.

“It has been a real treat for me to learn about Indigenous spirituality and understand the needs of Indigenous members,” he said. “There’s a huge diversity of different traditions and languages, all wrapped up in one program so we get a chance to support all those different candidates.”

The summer program for Indigenous youth from western and northern Canada promotes leadership skills, self-discipline and physical fitness. It includes a weeklong culture camp where recruits learn more about their First Nations heritage and complete the Canadian Army Reserve Basic Military Qualification (BMQ) course.

Recruits offered cultural and military perspectives to help ease course anxieties

The most common issues presented by the recruits include homesickness and difficulty adjusting to the structure and discipline of a military course. They have the opportunity seek counsel from the Indigenous Elders or from Capt Edwards, but many choose to see both. The Elders and the chaplain offer different viewpoints, providing robust support to the candidates.

Indigenous Elders have guided candidates through each year of the program, enabling them to get in touch with their heritage by conducting pipe ceremonies, sweat lodges and smudge ceremonies. Bringing in a chaplain offers a military perspective to the recruits, aiding in their adjustment by providing insight about what they can expect over the course of BMQ.

For example, Capt Edwards explained that by helping the youth understand why they’re being challenged by their course instructors in typical military fashion, they are better equipped to cope with stress.

“That’s all part of how the military prepares soldiers,” he said. “If you can't manage stress, you can’t fight a war. When people understand that, it tends to make it a little bit easier. We need to go through things that make us uncomfortable in order for us to grow as people.”

Spiritual resiliency is not tied to any particular faith or tradition

The ability to adapt well in the face of adversity, trauma and stress is a key factor to being a successful soldier. Capt Edwards believes that incorporating spirituality is one way to improve fortitude, adding that spiritual resiliency is not tied to any particular faith or tradition.

“What we’re seeing with this course is the integration of First Nations spirituality elements that help to give them the resiliency to push through some of these difficulties they’ve never experienced before.”

Aspiring to be First Nation chief, recruit values Bold Eagle teachings

Captain Edwards notes that he has also seen the recruits develop understanding about the meaning of leadership and service. He spoke with a recruit who aspires to be chief of his first nation one day, and he believes that Bold Eagle is a stepping stone in that direction.

“Those types of things are being awakened in some of these kids for the first time, a picture beyond themselves of what they can do, what they’re capable of,” he says. “It’s a privilege to watch that unfold,” said Capt Edwards.

A video game champion tests reality at Valcartier

A day at 2nd Canadian Division Support Base Valcartier in Quebec allows video game champion “missharvey” to jump from the virtual world to reality on July 18, 2019. Photo: Private Marc-André Leclerc, Valcartier Imagery ©2019 DND/MDN Canada.

By Édouard Dufour, Adsum newspaper

Stéphanie Harvey – known as “missharvey” by the international video gaming community – is a five-time world champion in the Counter-Strike shooter video game. In July 2019, she was at 2nd Canadian Division Support Base Valcartier to learn how to shoot with real weapons.

Ms. Harvey is a video game designer at Ubisoft Montréal, as well as being a prominent professional player on social media. She is followed by 116,000 people on Twitch alone, a platform where live video games can be watched.

During her visit on July 18, Ms. Harvey was accompanied by four members of 1e Battalion, Royal 22e Régiment. After donning Army battle dress, the young woman was driven to the training areas where she was able to test her shooting skills. She was able to learn how to use the C6, C8 and C9 machine guns. She also tested a 9mm Browning pistol and a C14 Timberwolf sniper rifle.

With a smile on her face, while being very attentive to the instructions of the military, Ms. Harvey practiced for nearly an hour under a blazing sun. She compared this rather physical experience to her workouts in the gym.

This incursion into the military world was not the first for the professional player. A few weeks previous, she parachuted with the Canadian Armed Forces Parachute Team, the Skyhawks at 3 Wing Bagotville. She then emphasized the similarity between the teamwork of the military and that of professional video game players.

Corporal Cédric Sabourin was one of those who accompanied Ms. Harvey during her visit to the Valcartier base. He said that she was enthusiastic and had a number of questions. Cpl Sabourin noted that the professional player was able to make impressive group shots with a pistol, a rare occurrence for someone starting out.

Ms. Harvey finally had the opportunity to practice urban combat as part of a simulation at Building 3 of the Militia Training Support Centre. According to Cpl Sabourin, she observed a number of parallels between the actual attack strategies and those advocated in the Counter-Strike video game as "coverage angle monitoring."

Activist

Ms. Harvey advocates for women’s rights in video gaming. A few years ago, she spoke out against sexism and gender discrimination among professional video game players. She stated that barely 5% of professional players are women and deplores the disparities between the incomes of women and men in this area. She also denounced the daily verbal attacks and sexual harassment perpetrated against women video game enthusiasts.

“I was a pioneer in my field when I started playing video games professionally. It was not easy. On the Internet, people do not care about the repercussions of insulting someone else. They do not see the sad faces behind the screens. I had to grow a really tough skin to be able to succeed,” Ms. Harvey said in an interview.

In 2016, in collaboration with other professional players, she founded Misscliks, an online community offering a healthy space to promote the presence of women in the professional video gaming community.

Army Run is Canada’s run, says Indigenous ambassador

Chief Warrant Officer Joel Pedersen will be running the half marathon at the 2019 Canada Army Run alongside his wife, Kim. His career in the Army Reserve includes the distinction of being the first person of First Nations ancestry to serve as Regimental Sergeant Major of The North Saskatchewan Regiment and the Royal Regina Rifles. Photo: Provided by Chief Warrant Officer Joel Pedersen.

By Steven Fouchard, Army Public Affairs

Saskatoon, Saskatchewan — For Chief Warrant Officer Joel Pedersen, Sergeant Major of the 38 Canadian Brigade Group Battle School and the Indigenous Advisor to the Brigade Commander, the Canada Army Run (CAR) half-marathon is nothing new. In fact, CAR 2019 will be his fourth time participating. What is new is the title he will carry at this year’s event: Indigenous Ambassador.

A few weeks before the 2019 run, which takes place September 22, CWO Pedersen (who will serve as co-Ambassador along with Corporal William Ross from 3rd Battalion Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry), spoke with Canadian Army Public Affairs.

In addition to all things CAR, he discussed what it means to have been the first person from a First Nations Community (Fond du Lac, Saskatchewan) to attain the position of Regimental Sergeant Major of an infantry unit, and the many opportunities that come with being in the Army Reserve.

The following interview has been edited for clarity and length.

Q1: You've been a marathoner for some time. What drew you to running?

I've enjoyed fitness training, sports and running ever since I was a kid. Running has helped me set goals like completing carrier courses and specialty courses like the jump course and mountain operations, or running the New York Marathon. 

Now it’s a part of my lifestyle, and I try to share that with others of all ages and abilities.

Being in the Army we run – it's part of what we do, it’s part of the culture. As far as competitive or distance recreational running, that was through colleagues – non-commissioned officers that were around me. They set an example by being physically and mentally fit.

Q2: How did you feel about being asked to be an Army Run Indigenous Ambassador?

I'm so honoured and grateful. Army Run is one of the top half-marathons in Canada and for the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) it should be on the must-do list.

It is the Army’s half-marathon but it's also Canada's half-marathon.

I find that the running community is similar to the military – there’s a great camaraderie. Because you're sharing a physical challenge whether it's a 5K, 10K or 21K. It's an individual activity and also a group activity with that positive energy.

Q3: How do you plan to approach being an Ambassador?

My approach will be to ensure that everyone knows they are welcome at the Army Run, regardless of age or ability – to inspire and empower as many people as I can through an active and positive healthy lifestyle.

As a First Nations soldier, I hope that others may follow and surpass any of my accomplishments. Running for me is like medicine – it is holistic and natural, it is therapeutic and a tangible physical feeling.

I think of Indigenous soldiers from the First World War like Tom Longboat and Alex Decoteau. Those soldiers were true warrior runners and those gifts helped them accomplish what they had to do.

Private Decoteau was the first Indigenous civilian police officer in Canada – he served with the Edmonton Police and later he was an infantry soldier. I like that example because I served with the Saskatoon Police Service for 25 years, and have had the honour to serve in the CAF now for almost 32 years.

I also think of my friends and colleagues who are no longer able to run, for they also inspire me and motivate me to keep moving forward.

Q4: Are you bringing some family along this year?

Yes, my wife Kim and I are both runners. She and I will be running the half marathon. Our kids are not able to attend this time, but it would be cool to run the distance together someday.

As I mentioned, running for me is like natural medicine. It's always very positive for my mental health. Going for a run is something that we both enjoy doing and it's time that we can spend together.

A run is an opportunity to meditate and clear my mind. I can feel everything around me – the ground under my feet, the air that I’m breathing.

Q5: When did you first join the Army Reserve and what was your inspiration?

I was 17 years old when I joined in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan. I was still in high school and I wanted a challenge. My parents had been in the Army Reserve when they were younger and a lot of my family has served, going all the way back to the Boer War and the First World War.

On my mother's side of the family, they fought at Passchendaele, Vimy, and throughout Europe in the Second World War.

The other part of my decision to join was that, at a young age, I knew I wanted to be a police officer, so I felt the military would be a good beginning for that journey.

Now when I talk to soldiers and young officers I tell them, especially if they've just joined the CAF, ‘You have no idea the opportunities that are going to come before you and the doors that are going to open because you've raised your hand and said that you're prepared to serve your country.’ It's a huge privilege and a great honour to be a part of the military.

Q6: You were the first person of First Nations ancestry to serve as Regimental Sergeant Major (RSM) of the North Saskatchewan Regiment, and also the Royal Regina Rifles. How did it feel to have achieved those milestones?

I didn’t get there by myself. I had some incredible leaders, family, friends, and colleagues who assisted me when I needed them. The many RSMs who served before me and provided mentorship to me ensured I knew what right looked like.

As a First Nations soldier, it is an opportunity to be a role model that I do not take for granted – to champion other Indigenous soldiers who may not have felt empowered.

Part of my duties now as the RSM of the Battle School, and the Indigenous Advisor to the Brigade Commander, is to ensure all soldiers and leaders are treated with respect.

I heard once that people are not always going to remember what you said, or even what you have done, but they will always remember how you made them feel.

Canada Army Run commemorates anniversary of the Battle of Normandy

A member of the Canadian Armed Forces congratulates a participant at the finish line of the 2018 edition of Canada Army Run. Photo: Mike Pinder, Official event photographer. ©2019 DND/MDN Canada.

By Michael Timmermans, Communications Manager, Canada Army Run

Registration for this outstanding community event will be closing on September 16, and there are limited spots still available.

Ottawa, Ontario — On September 22, 2019, the 12th annual Canada Army Run will welcome over 20,000 participants as they run, walk and roll in this unique fitness, outreach and fundraising event held in the National Capital Region. 2019 will see the first edition of Army Run at its brand new location, the Canadian War Museum.

“Moving to the Canadian War Museum is a natural fit for Canada Army Run. The Museum is a destination people from all over the world come to see. It adds even more military flavour to Army Run and we couldn’t ask for a better partner,” said Major Dave Tischhauser, Canada Army Run’s Race Director.

In addition to the traditional 5K, 10K and half marathon race events held this year on brand new routes, Canada Army Run is commemorating the 75th anniversary of the Battle of Normandy and D-Day in 2019 with the Normandy Challenge, where participants will run or roll in both the 5K and 10K events, back-to-back, to honour the brave Canadians who fought in this historic Second World War battle.

This follows Army Run’s commemoration of the 100th anniversary of the Battle of Vimy Ridge in 2017 and the 75th anniversary of the Second World War Battle of Ortona in 2018. For 2020, Army Run plans on marking 75 years since the end of the Second World War in Europe with its 5K plus 10K Challenge in 2020.

Canadians took part in many victories during the Second World War, with the Battle of Normandy and D-Day among the best-known examples.

Victory at Normandy came at a high cost, with Canadians suffering the highest casualties within the British Army Group. On D-Day alone, 359 Canadian soldiers died, and more than 5,000 lost their lives during the two and a half months of fighting in Normandy. More than 13,000 more were wounded, many suffering injuries to their bodies and minds that they would carry for the remainder of their lives.

Canada’s impressive efforts in the Second World War remain a point of great national pride these many decades later. More than a million Canadians served during the Second World War.

Canada Army Run participants regularly share their experiences through the event’s website. France Hurley shared: “Army Run is a very special day to honor and pay tribute to our proud military family. Being the proud daughter, wife, mother and sister of members of the Canadian Armed Forces, we have a legacy of understanding the importance of our serving military and veterans.”

“Army Run gave us a chance to honor my grandfather who fought in the First World War at Vimy Ridge,” said Ms. Hurley. “My brother served in Kuwait, my husband served for 22 years and our son is a current serving member who has done two tours in Afghanistan and a tour in Kuwait,” she said.

Also returning for a fourth year is the signature Army Run distance event, the Commander’s Challenge, where participants take on the 5K and half marathon one after the other in pursuit of this ultimate test of pace and endurance.

“I am excited to be a part of Canada Army Run this year, my first after taking command of the Canadian Army earlier this summer,” said Lieutenant-General Wayne Eyre, Commander, Canadian Army.

“This is the Army’s largest outreach event and we welcome all participants and spectators to take part in the weekend’s activities. Come learn about the Canadian Army and the great causes Canada Army Run supports. The Canadian Army takes great pride in serving Canadians and this event is an opportunity for our soldiers to connect with Canadians and for Canadians to connect with our men and women in uniform.”

This year, all participants in the Normandy Challenge and Commander’s Challenge will receive unique clothing and race bibs, and, upon successfully completing the Challenges, will receive a special commemorative finisher medal from a Canadian soldier in addition to the traditional military dog tag themed medals for the individual distances.

“My first Canada Army Run came after seeing a promotion at the US Army Ten-Miler,” said Michael Yowell, event ambassador with Army Run’s Frontline Race Team from Omaha, Nebraska.

“I thought: ‘why not?’ and I've been hooked since,” said Mr. Yowell. “I love the Commander's Challenge and my best half marathon times have been set in Ottawa! Bar none, you'll never regret being part of Army Run!”

In addition to the running events, there is also a full roster of free activities for all ages lined up for the race weekend, including the Juno Challenge, a child-friendly obstacle course hosted by the Canadian Army mascot Juno the Bear.

The weekend is also a chance to meet the men and women of the Canadian Army, see firsthand the equipment they use and learn about the work they do across the country and around the world.

According to Chris Cassey, an athlete and Frontline Race Team member: “Canada Army Run has become a family tradition. We have serving family members (including my spouse) and, every year, he and I travel with his mom to participate. There’s really nothing like it! The experience is electric from expo to finish line.”

Canada Army Run is a chance for the troops to thank Canadians for their support, and for Canadians to thank the men and women who serve them at home and abroad.

Canada Army Run, presented by BMO Bank of Montreal, is no ordinary race and is one of the most inspiring events of its kind in the country. Civilians, Canadian Armed Forces personnel and participants of all ages and abilities take part together, showing their pride as Canadians and as supporters of fitness.

From the Howitzer cannon used as a starter gun to the dog-tag-inspired medals which soldiers award to the races’ finishers at the finish line, Canada Army Run is military-themed from start to finish.

For Hurley: “It's a day not to be missed for the wonderful atmosphere and comradery that has become a family tradition. Army Run is a chance to get together as a family to honour our loved ones and all those currently serving,” she said.

On September 22, 2019, Canada Army Run will welcome over 20,000 participants as they run, walk and roll in a unique fitness, outreach and fundraising event held in the National Capital Region. The event will be held at its new location, the Canadian War Museum, and will commemorate the 75th anniversary of the Battle of Normandy and D-Day.

Junior Canadian Rangers leadership training shapes tomorrow’s leaders

Junior Canadian Ranger (JCR) Robert Gienger (left) from Grande Cache, Alberta takes part in a teambuilding activity at Pearson College in Victoria, British Columbia on August 8, 2019 during the JCR National Leader Enhanced Training Session 2019 (NLETS 19), which took place from August 7 to 20, 2019. Photo: Second Lieutenant Natasha Tersigni, 4th Canadian Rangers Patrol Group Public Affairs. ©2019 DND/MDN Canada.

By Second Lieutenant Natasha Tersigni, 4th Canadian Ranger Patrol Group Public Affairs

Salt Spring Island, British Columbia — Thirty-three of the best and brightest senior Junior Canadian Rangers (JCRs) from across Canada gathered in British Columbia for the JCR National Leaders Enhanced Training Session 2019 (NLETS 19) to learn skills that will last a lifetime.

This annual national-level training event, hosted this year by the 4th Canadian Ranger Patrol Group (4 CRPG) from August 7 to 20, 2019, was an opportunity for senior JCRs aged 16 to 18 years old to enhance their knowledge and  Ranger, traditional and life skills.

Upon completion of NLETS 19, the JCRs returned to their home patrols with a better understanding of the JCR program, and with the skills and knowledge needed to continue to be leaders at their home JCR patrol and in their communities.

The majority of the NLETS 19 training took place on Salt Spring Island, British Columbia, The island is the largest of the Gulf Islands in the Strait of Georgia between mainland British Columbia and Vancouver Island.

On this 185 square kilometre island, the JCRs took part in a variety of activities including a three-day sea kayaking expedition as well as hiking, rock climbing, intertidal studies, organic farming and Indigenous studies. Along with the activities, all the JCRs had the opportunity to lead their section for a day and take on other leadership roles as assigned. 

“Through these adventure training activities, we are putting the JCRs in the position to overcome their fears; whether it be mental, physical or emotional. Maybe its fear of the ocean, or climbing up a rock face, by putting the JCRs in these challenging, uncomfortable conditions, they are learning to overcome obstacles and learning ways to cope,” explained Major Scott Macdonald, who is the Officer Commanding, Junior Canadian Ranger Company of 4th Canadian Ranger Patrol Group.

“One of the biggest benefits of NLETS 19 is the confidence that the JCRs gain in the role of being leaders. At the end of the enhanced training session, they return to their home patrols and communities with the confidence, skills and abilities to be leaders. It is these skills and abilities that we hope they continue to grow and build on as they become young adults.”

For JCR Robert Gienger of Grande Cache, Alberta, participating in the NLETS 19 was an opportunity to challenge himself. In July 2019, JCR Gienger was employed as a JCR mentor for the 4 CRPG Basic Enhanced Training Session 2019 (BETS 2019) that was hosted on Vancouver Island.

During BETS 2019, JCR Gienger was responsible for leading a section of younger JCRs, aged 12 to 14 years old, in outdoor activities such as canoeing, camping, hiking, and a high ropes course.

“I have learned so many skills through the JCR program and continue to do so. The biggest lesson for me is learning how to deal with the diversity of everyday modern challenges that come into my life. You must learn how to assess what happens, whose problems you can solve,” he said.

“When something unexpected happens, you need to quickly stop, think, and find a way to handle it. Since sometimes you could be wrong and there could be a backlash, you need to figure out all these facets and put them together to solve the puzzle,” said JCR Gienger, who added that NLETS 19 was another way the JCR program helped him to develop important life skills.

“NLETS 19 was an amazing opportunity. I made so many great friends and got to experience some great outdoor activities and travel to a place where I have never been to before. I found the whole experience challenging, but rewarding.” 

The Junior Canadian Rangers are community-led and Army-supported youth development program. Many JCRs come from Indigenous communities and are mentored by members of the Canadian Rangers, who are part-time Army Reserve members. The Rangers provide patrols and detachments for national security and public safety missions in sparsely settled northern, coastal and isolated areas of Canada that cannot conveniently or economically be covered by other parts of the Canadian Armed Forces.

Peacekeeping mission in Mali concludes

Members of Operation Presence-Mali conducted their eleventh aeromedical evacuation mission, treating two civilian contractors involved in an IED attack before transferring the casualties to a MINUSMA Role 2 hospital in Gao, near Camp Castor on August 16, 2019. PHOTO: Corporal Richard Lessard, TM03-2019-0007-002

Department of National Defence/Canadian Armed Forces

After more than a year of operations in Mali, the Air Task Force (ATF) deployed in Gao completed its mission on August 31, 2019.

An important aspect of Canada’s multi-faceted support included providing critical aeromedical evacuation, logistic and transport capabilities as part of Operation Presence-Mali.

In July 2018, an ATF composed of 250 personnel and eight Royal Canadian Air Force CH-147F Chinook and CH-146 Griffon helicopters deployed to Gao, northern Mali as part of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA); they were essential to the conduct of United Nations operations in remote and vulnerable areas of the country.

During the mission, the personnel deployed under Operation Presence-Mali conducted 11 aeromedical evacuations and more than 100 transport missions. Upon ceasing transport aviation tasks on July 31, 2019, RCAF helicopters had transported approximately 2,800 passengers and delivered 370,000 pounds of cargo, over more than 4,000 flying hours.

To facilitate a smooth and efficient transition with the incoming Romanian helicopter detachment, the RCAF provided four CC-177 Globemaster intra-theatre airlift flights to assist with the deployment of Romanian personnel and equipment to theatre. A small Canadian transition team will also be deployed to assist Romania in its preparations to conduct operations. This will minimize disruptions in the availability of critical capabilities to MINUSMA forces and help set up the Romanian rotation for operational success. CAF personnel also met with Canadian civilian police officers, who are deployed with MINUSMA until March 2021, and shared lessons learned in support of their ongoing work in Mali.

“The professionalism of Canadian Armed Forces members was on display throughout the past year in Mali. Successfully executing a mission of this scale in a complex and demanding environment requires a high level of resourcefulness, patience and determination,” said Lieutenant-General Mike Rouleau, the commander of Canadian Joint Operations Command. “I am beyond impressed with the work our people have done to support peace operations in Africa.”

Quick facts

In March 2018, Canada committed an ATF to MINUSMA for a period of one year. The ATF became fully operational in August 2018 and provided critical aeromedical evacuation, logistics and transport support to the UN.

Since August 2018, approximately 1,250 personnel have deployed on Operation Presence-Mali in operational, logistics support and staff officer roles.

The CAF began its gradual departure from Mali on July 31 with the end of transport aviation tasks. To limit the gap between the departure of Canada’s ATF and Romania’s arrival, the ATF continued to provide standby aeromedical evacuation coverage until August 31.A small number of Canadian personnel will remain in the region until the full repatriation of the ATF equipment, expected to be completed no later than January 2020. These personnel will not be conducting aeromedical evacuation, logistics and transport support; these responsibilities will be undertaken by Romania.

Uniform, camouflage and equipment modernization process marches on

Starting at the end of September 2019, 3rd Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment will begin wearing coats and trousers, shell fragmentation protective body armor, bush caps, helmet covers and rank patches in the “Prototype J” mid-spectrum pattern.

By Eric De Lafontaine, Manager – Soldier Operational Clothing and Equipment Modernization, Directorate of Soldier Systems Program Management

Ottawa, Ontario — Some 600 soldiers at 4th Canadian Division Support Base (4 CDSB) Petawawa will soon be standing out as they help the Canadian Armed Forces test a new Canadian Disruptive Pattern (CADPAT) to help select a replacement camouflage for the current iconic woodland and arid CADPAT patterns.

The original distinctive CADPAT, revolutionary for its time, was initially developed in 1997. It is most closely associated with the Canadian Army but it is also worn by Navy and Air Force personnel when they work within Army lines.

Canadian Special Operations Forces personnel wear another pattern, MultiCam, which is not being replaced.

Since CADPAT was issued, there have been a number of advances made in camouflage research, specifically protection from detection by infra-red and other night vision systems.

Starting at the end of September 2019, 3rd Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment will begin wearing coats and trousers, shell fragmentation protective body armor, bush caps, helmet covers and rank patches in the “Prototype J” mid-spectrum pattern.

This new four-colour pattern falls in the middle of the camouflage spectrum, not overly emphasizing brown or green tones.

While there have been over a dozen patterns tested, this is the first pattern to be taken out of a lab and tested using real soldiers, who are undergoing rigorous training for overseas operations. There will likely be adjustments made to the pattern resulting from this trial.

The trial will last until July 2020. During this time, the Human Factors Support Cell from the Soldier Systems Directorate within Director General Land Equipment Program Management will seek user feedback about the “Prototype J” pattern by conducting large-scale questionnaires.

The team will also conduct data collection, focus groups, and 3D body scanning to define how the current operational uniform and personal equipment can be improved.

This study will also include seeking out soldiers of smaller stature, including but not exclusively women, to ensure that the next generation of clothing and equipment fit the widest variety of soldiers possible.

The Soldier Operational Clothing and Equipment Modernization (SOCEM) project, led by the Canadian Army Director of Land Requirements, in cooperation with Assistant Deputy Minister (Materiel) and Defence Research and Development Canada, has been working for over two years on harnessing technological advances to improve the functionality of Canadian Armed Forces operational uniforms and equipment.

The goal is operational clothing and equipment that protect and fit better while lightening the load carried by soldiers.

Transitioning to a single pattern from the current temperate woodland (green), and arid (tan) will also create efficiencies in terms of logistics.

With the final decision expected no later than 2022 and a full roll out 2027, the interim years will see mixed uniforms and equipment as items in the new pattern are gradually acquired and put into service.

New badge for Naval Boarding Party graduates

From left: The Naval Boarding Party Basic Qualification badge and the Naval Tactical Operations Group Qualification badge.

By Peter Mallett

The latest candidates of the Naval Boarding Party (NBP) Basic Course at Naval Fleet School (Pacific) in Esquimalt, B.C., graduated in a ceremony held August 15. They were the first in the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) to receive the new Specialist Skill Badges for the NBP qualification.

The new NBP badge is one of three new skill badges introduced by the RCN in May to recognize the specialized skill sets of the NBP, the Naval Security Team (NST) and the Naval Tactical Operations Group (NTOG).

All three badges consist of a shield, a traditional symbol of protection, and the NBP badge also includes a stylized naval compass and fouled anchor.

While addressing the 11 graduates, Lieutenant-Commander (LCdr) Danny O’Regan, Acting Commandant of Naval Fleet School (Pacific), congratulated them for their achievement following six weeks of physically and mentally demanding training.

“Boardings are an important part of what the RCN does operationally during deployments around the globe, and these new specialist skill badges are visible recognition that you have attained this significant qualification,” said LCdr O’Regan. “I hope you will wear them with pride as you take your new skills to your shipboard teams.”

A recent Canadian Armed Forces General Order stipulates that those receiving skill badges shall wear them centred above the left pocket, with production of cloth badges expected to come through the National Procurement Authority.

Once the cloth badges are issued, the existing NBP badge, a blue badge with a naval crown over top a pair of crossed cutlasses, will no longer be authorized for wear.

As part of its operations this year, the NTOG and naval boarding parties have worked with international partners in North and West Africa, and a detachment was also embarked in Her Majesty’s Canadian Ship Regina supporting Operation ARTEMIS. The team conducted multiple interdictions, assisting in the seizure and destruction over 9,000 kilograms of illegal narcotics.

Courtesy of Lookout

Deployed to Latvia with hockey gear for cultural exchange events

Goalie gear is checked before being loaded on July 8, 2019 at Canadian Forces Base Shilo for the deployment of soldiers on Operation REASSURANCE in Latvia. Cultural exchange in the form of hockey builds bonds of friendship between Allied countries. Photo: Jules Xavier, Shilo Stag newspaper.

By Jules Xavier, Shilo Stag newspaper

Shilo, Manitoba — It was a hive of activity on a muggy Monday morning at the Kapyong Barracks on July 9, 2019 as about 130 soldiers began their six-month deployment on Operation REASSURANCE, with hockey gear and fishing rods packed along with their usual soldier gear.

Members of 2nd Battalion, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry (2 PPCLI) saw their bags and battle boxes checked at Kapyong Barracks at Canadian Forces Base Shilo, then loaded onto a convoy of military trucks. The convoy headed for 17 Wing Winnipeg where the gear was flown first to Canadian Forces Base Trenton and on to Latvia.

Hockey, Canada’s game is a mandated part of Latvian mission

Among the baggage were numerous hockey bags, plus an assortment of hockey sticks and retractable fishing rods.

No, there's not a second mission overseas for 2 PPCLI hockey players. Instead, it's part of the mission, according to 2 PPCLI Commanding Officer Lieutenant-Colonel Mike Reekie.

"It's a mandated part of our mission task to play hockey while we're over there," he explained during media briefings. "Hockey is part of our cultural exchange with Latvia. Playing hockey is something our two countries have in common.

"That's why this is a unique mission — Latvia is not dissimilar to Canada. It's not a Third World country. It's a lot like British Columbia or the East coast with beaches on the coastline. We're not roughing it [on this mission]."

Compared to his previous deployments to Bosnia, Afghanistan twice, or Iraq, LCol Reekie said there's still work to be done on this mission, but hockey will be part of the cultural exchange between Canadian and Latvian military members. Plus there's a chance to play against, or with, the Latvian national team.

"I'm excited for this opportunity to be part of this mission," he said. "We're able to integrate with other countries [involved]. We're one battle group, but with nine different flags involved."

While LCol Reekie did not pack any hockey gear himself, he expects to see some playing time when he's not working.

"I'll borrow some gear if I have to in order to play," he said, smiling.

Fishing on agenda in Latvia during down time from work

Chief Warrant Officer William King, Regimental Sergeant Major of 2 PPCLI, was among those deployed. Along with his pace stick, he packed a fishing rod and tackle.

When he's not working alongside his fellow soldiers, including those from eight other countries also deployed to Latvia, CWO King said he expects to drop a fishing line in a nearby river, lake or perhaps the Baltic Sea, which is 10 kilometres away, to land supper on a plate accompanied by French fries.

The veteran soldier admits he is not tech-savvy when it comes to Skype and using other social media platforms. He plans to write letters home the old-fashioned way to keep in touch with his wife and family back in Canada.

Canada’s role in Latvia not peacekeeping or combat – but stability

There will be more than 1,000 NATO troops working together on this mission, with Canadian Forces Base Shilo's soldiers becoming part of the Latvian Mechanized Infantry Brigade.

With the Latvia mission spearheaded by Canada, 2 PPCLI is one of four multinational battalion-size battle groups deployed as part of the eastern portion of the NATO alliance in Poland, Estonia as well as Latvia.

According to the official NATO website, these groups led by Canada, Germany, the United States and the United Kingdom are combat-ready forces which have been deployed in a show of strength, demonstrating the transatlantic bond.

LCol Reekie pointed out this current mission is not a combat operation, nor is it a peacekeeping role as the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) did for many years in Cyprus.

"It's a stability operation … it's a reinforcing operation," he said.

Last chance to experience the 2019 Changing of the Guard

The Canadian Armed Forces Parachute Team, The SkyHawks, perform aerobatic parachute formations during Fortissimo 2019 on Parliament Hill in Ottawa, Ontario, July 18, 2019. Photo: Ordinary Seaman Alexandra Proulx, Army Public Affairs. ©2019 DND/MDN Canada.

By Denis Armstrong,  Army Public Affairs

Ottawa, Ontario — The members of the Ceremonial Guard of the Canadian Armed Forces wrap up their 61st season of Public Duties with the final Changing of the Guard ceremony on Saturday, August 24 at 10 a.m. on the lawns of Parliament Hill.

Since the season opened on June 23, the Ceremonial Guard has been busy performing the daily Changing of the Guard ceremony on Parliament Hill and standing as sentries at Rideau Hall and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at the National War Memorial, duties that are popular with the public and tourists alike.

What made the summer of 2019 exceptional for the Ceremonial Guard were the number of high-profile events critical to deepening the Canadian Army’s relationship with Canadians, beginning with “Fortissimo,” an epic musical blockbuster featuring military re-enactments, a bravura performance of the 1812 Overture complete with artillery fire and the bells of the Peace Tower, military bands from Canada and Latvia and the SkyHawks parachute team. Grand in scale, Fortissimo was once again one of the largest congregations of military musical might the capital region has ever seen, and very popular with spectators.

For the first time in 11 years, the Royal Air Force’s aerobatic team The Red Arrows thrilled the Changing of the Guard spectators with a breathtaking fly past on August 13 as part of their North American tour.

In addition to the Changing of the Guard ceremony, members of the Ceremonial Guard are frequently called upon to support official functions in and around the National Capital Region.

Emotions were high when the Ceremonial Guard quietly accompanied the Kandahar Cenotaph Rededication on August 17 at National Defence Headquarters (Carling) honouring the 158 Canadian soldiers killed in Afghanistan, Foreign Affairs official Glyn Berry, Calgary Herald journalist Michelle Lang, and Marc Cyr, a civilian from a company under contract to Department National Defence, and 42 U.S. military personnel and one civilian who died while serving under Canadian command.

Finally, just days before their Final Guard Mount, the Ceremonial Guard paraded in the Change of Command ceremony where Lieutenant-General J.M. Lanthier passed the torch of command to Lieutenant-General W.D. Eyre on August 20.

Your last chance to see the Changing of the Guard on Parliament Hill is Saturday, August 24 at 10 a.m., and the posting of sentries at Rideau Hall on Saturday, August 24 between 9-11 a.m.

‘Together we will stand strong,’ says new Commander Canadian Army

General Johnathan Vance, Chief of the Defense Staff, (centre) Lieutenant-General Jean-Marc Lanthier, outgoing Commander of the Canadian Army, (left) and incoming Commander Lieutenant- General Wayne Eyre (right) sign the ceremonial Change of Army Command scrolls during the Canadian Army Change of Command ceremony at Parliament Hill in Ottawa, Ontario on August 20, 2019. Also pictured are Chief Warrant Officer Alain Guimond, (second left) Canadian Armed Forces Chief Warrant Officer; and Chief Warrant Officer Stuart Hartnell, (second right) Canadian Army Sergeant Major. Photo: Sergeant Lance Wade, 5th Canadian Division. ©2019 DND/MDN Canada.

By Steven Fouchard, Army Public Affairs

Ottawa, Ontario — The new Commander Canadian Army (Comd CA) has officially stepped into the role with a pledge to give as much back to the institution as it has given him.

Lieutenant-General Wayne Eyre was formally introduced to Canadian Army (CA) members in a Change of Command Ceremony held August 20, 2019 on Parliament Hill in Ottawa.

Speaking to an assembled crowd of military members, their families, and government officials, LGen Eyre recalled his long history in the CA, which began when he became an Army cadet at age 12.

“I owe a great debt of personal gratitude to the Canadian Army,” he said. “It has helped shape who I am today. I owe it so much and now it's payback time.”

“For all those who currently serve, who still serve, and for those who came before me, I pledge to use whatever I have learned in the experience I have gained to continue building on the great tradition of the Canadian Army,” he added.

LGen Eyre’s own operational experience includes commands in volatile regions such as Croatia and Afghanistan, and he stressed the need for a fit, tough, land force that is ever-ready for all modern battlespaces.

“Our predecessors succeeded in doing the impossible because they were well-trained, well-led, and well-prepared. They did not hesitate to innovate and adapt. And we must do the same because the world is dangerous, violent, volatile and unpredictable. This readiness includes ensuring the total fitness of our force. We need to be physically and mentally fit, resilient and cognitively agile.”

He also thanked outgoing Comd CA, Lieutenant-General Jean-Marc Lanthier, who is moving to the position of Vice Chief of the Defence Staff. LGen Eyre noted, tongue-in-cheek, that the two had last swapped positions during the Afghanistan mission.

“Thank you as well for the superb handover. It was somewhat shorter than our last one in Afghanistan in 2007 where we wound up as roommates for two and a half weeks but no less well-thought-out. In this case you didn't have to put up with my dirty laundry.”

In his address, LGen Lanthier expressed full confidence in the new Comd CA.

“As I leave this post I'm reassured that you will make sure that the Army remains strong, proud, ready,” he said.

LGen Lanthier also bid farewell to his CA comrades.

“My final words are to the Canadian Army family, which is represented so admirably today by the Ceremonial Guard: I am immensely grateful for all that you have done and sacrificed for the Army and for all that you continue to do in the service of this nation. There has been no greater privilege or honour for me than to serve as your Commander.”

General Jonathan Vance, Chief of the Defence Staff, said both officers have served Canadians well and that he has no doubt they will continue to do so.

“These two leaders have demonstrated the very best Canada has to offer no matter the task. And I know they will continue to do great things for the Canadian Armed Forces.”

He thanked LGen Lanthier for driving growth in Army Reserve recruitment and for being a champion of CA Indigenous programs such as Bold Eagle and Carcajou.

LGen Eyre said ensuring the CA remains tolerant and culturally diverse is another of his priorities.

“It means cultivating a culture of mutual respect, diversity and openness,” he said. “One that does not tolerate inappropriate behaviour of any kind. We have enough adversaries out there who would do us harm without doing it to ourselves.”

“Members of the Canadian Army,” he concluded, “you are truly a force of good in this chaotic world. You have a transcendent purpose, and that is to serve and defend Canada. I look forward to once again soldiering with you and together we will stand strong, proud, and ready.”

Emotional moment at Juno Beach for 95-year-old Veteran and Battlefield cyclists

Russell Kaye on Juno Beach, June 6, 2019, surrounded by members of Wounded Warriors Canada’s Battlefield Bike Ride 2019 team. It has been 75 years since Mr. Kaye landed on Juno Beach as part of the historic D-Day Landings near Courseulles-sur-Mer, France. Photo: John's Photography, Sooke, BC

By Peter Mallett, Lookout newspaper

Courseulles-sur-Mer, France — When 95-year-old Second World War veteran Russell Kaye set foot on Juno Beach for his first time since D-Day, he wasn’t making his steps in its dark brown sand alone.

Over 75 years ago on June 6, 1944, the former Gunner with 43rd Battery E Troop 12 Field Regiment was one of thousands of brave Canadians who stormed the beach as part of the historic D-Day Landings near Courseulles-sur-Mer, France.

Taking Juno beach was a responsibility that mainly fell to Canada’s army and in the end their mission claimed the lives of an estimated 359 Canadians, 574 wounded and 47 taken as prisoners of war. They added to the approximately 225,000 Allied soldiers killed during the entire D-Day Invasion, of which an estimated 18,000 Canadians made the supreme sacrifice.

To mark that historic day, Mr. Kaye and his family were joined on Juno Beach by a large contingent of cyclists who were taking part in the Wounded Warriors Canada Battlefield Bike Ride 2019 and were hosting the family for the event. Everyone gathered with Mr. Kaye to share the experience of returning to Juno.

“He walked onto the beach with our cyclists surrounding him, many shook his hand while many others hugged him,” said Battlefield Bike Ride Director and rider Captain Jacqueline Zweng of the Regional Cadet Support Unit (Pacific).

Capt Zweng describes Kaye as a stoic man who didn’t show much emotion during his pilgrimage but also one who remembers each one of the friends he lost during the invasion of France.

“That was the highlight of the Battlefield Bike Ride for me, being able to be there with Mr. Kaye along with members of his family,” said fellow rider Captain Robert Dodds, Commanding Officer of ‘A’ Company of the Canadian Scottish Regiment (Princess Mary’s).

“He embraced us all and was very happy for us to be there and share the moment with him.

Captain (Navy) (Retd) Mary-Ellen Clark, who today works as business manager at Joint Task Force Pacific, said Mr. Kaye’s health and vigour were remarkable and described his first step back on Juno as a “pinnacle moment” for her.

“It was sacred ground and was the spot where Kaye as a young Private, along with countless other Canadians in the same boots, ran towards the enemy to defend the precious freedoms we enjoy today,” said Clark. “No one spoke, it was truly a sacred moment.”

The May 30 to June 6 event involved a team of 130 riders cycling over 600 kilometres to some of France’s most famous Second World War battle sites, monuments and memorials in an effort to raise funds and awareness for mental health programs for military Veterans, First Responders and their families. Wounded Warriors Canada had invited Mr. Kaye and family members to be their guests for the journey but Capt Zweng said at first Mr. Kaye had no interest in returning to Juno.

“He [Mr. Kaye] said he had spent 75 years trying to forget Juno but leading up to the event he then felt a responsibility to represent his comrades and walk the steps they weren’t able to,” said Capt Zweng.

Kaye’s son Chris Kaye, also a military veteran, and his wife Linda Kaye were among the team of riders who took part in this year’s Battlefield Bike Ride and were instrumental in convincing the family patriarch to attend.

Among their stops, the riders and their guests visited the Dieppe Canadian War Cemetery; Juno Beach; Canada House; the Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial; Abbaye d`Ardenne, where Canadian prisoners of war were executed by the Germans; Omaha Beach, site of the United States Forces D-Day landing; the Merville Gun Battery; Pegasus Bridge and the Longues-sur-Mer German Battery.

Riders were responsible for reaching fundraising targets of $4,000 before their participation.

The total raised by the 2019 ride was $657,042. Since it began in 2014, Battlefield Bike Ride has raised over $2.5 million in funding for Wounded Warriors Canada and has visited battle sites in France, Holland, Belgium, Bosnia-Herzegovina and Croatia, among others.

‘It’s always been a partnership’ for Foot Guards museum curators

Master Warrant Officer (Retired) Martin Lane served for 15 years with the Governor General’s Foot Guards and his continued volunteer work makes for nearly 60 years of association with the regiment. His wife, Estelle Lane, has worked alongside him for most of that time. The couple took on the role of co-curators for the regiment’s museum over 20 years ago, and say the experience has been a rewarding one. Photo: Steven Fouchard, Army Public Affairs. ©2019 DND/MDN Canada.

By  Steven Fouchard, Army Public Affairs

Ottawa, Ontario — You could say Estelle Lane married the Governor General’s Foot Guards (GGFG) right along with her husband, Master Warrant Officer (Retired) Martin Lane, who was a member for 15 years, but the fact is, she became a part of the family even before the pair made it official in 1967.

“It started while we were going out,” Estelle recalled. “He was Treasurer of the Foot Guards Association and Secretary of the Mess. So there were always minutes to type. It’s always been a partnership.”

“That was one of our dates,” she added with a fond laugh. “I’d be typing minutes.”

“We’ve done a lot together,” MWO (Retd) Lane responded.

All told, MWO (Retd) Lane is approaching 60 years of involvement with the GGFG, Canada’s senior Reserve infantry regiment and best known for performing ceremonial duties such as the Changing of the Guard on Parliament Hill in their trademark scarlet tunics and bearskin hats.

“I was sworn in on the fifth of January 1960 and I’ve never left by way of serving for 15 years, and later being the Secretary and Treasurer of the Regimental Association, then Vice-president and serving twice as President,” he said. “I think I’ve served every position in the Association.”

Mrs. Lane did her part, in addition to all that typing, as a member of the regiment’s Ladies’ Auxiliary, helping organize regimental social events as well as fundraisers for valued local organizations such as the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario.

He was already part of the museum team but it was in 1996 that MWO (Retd) Lane agreed to take on the role of curator of the small but well-stocked space in the regiment’s headquarters: Cartier Square Drill Hall in downtown Ottawa.

The museum’s collection had been in storage off-site for the previous three years while the hall underwent an extensive renovation.

“It was a mass of work,” MWO (Retd) Lane recalled. “You have to imagine all this stuff packed and it had to be unpacked.”

“One day in August I had been out for lunch with some girlfriends,” Mrs. Lane added. “I walked in and the museum was a holy mess.”

“We got home that night,” said MWO (Retd) Lane, “and she said, ‘Would you like some help?’ It was three weeks prior to the official re-opening with the Governor General. I got down on my knees so fast.”

Though the pace of work has slowed from that frantic, early time, the pair have kept busy preparing displays, transcribing the regiment’s war diaries – which has meant even more typing for Mrs. Lane – and being on hand during opening hours to show visitors around.

The couple’s work was formally recognized in 2002,  and they have both been honoured with Queen Elizabeth II Golden Jubilee Medals.

“We both wear them proudly,” said MWO (Retd) Lane.

Many of the rewards are less physically tangible: Mrs. Lane recalls with particular fondness meeting Ottawa-born Olympic figure skating medalist Barbara Ann Scott, who in 2007 presented the museum with artifacts that had belonged to her father, Colonel Clyde Rutherford Scott. Col Scott was placed on active duty for overseas service during the First World War along with other members of the GGFG’s 2nd Battalion Canadian Expeditionary Force.

“She was getting on in years and thinking of finding a home for all her father’s things,” Mrs. Lane said. “This lady really honoured her dad. She had a full wall dedicated to him. His medals, swords, his forage cap, his Sam Browne belt. Barbara Ann Scott was my idol. To meet her in person and have my picture taken with her was a thrill of my life. The display stayed there many years. I didn’t take it down until she died [in 2012].”

At age 78, MWO (Retd) Lane said he has no immediate plans to slow down. And Mrs. Lane will continue to be his tireless partner.

“My health is good,” he said.

“That’s because I feed you well,” said Mrs. Lane.

Supporting those who serve: Effective soldiers need strong families

A Canadian Army soldier with her young daughter. Effective soldiers need support on many levels – on deployment, during training – and so do their family members. Photo: Canadian Forces Morale and Welfare Services. ©2017 DND/MDN Canada.

By Tim Bryant, Western Sentinel newspaper

Edmonton, Alberta — While members of 1 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group (1 CMBG) were working their way towards High Readiness, much was going on behind the scenes to ensure the soldiers and their families receive the support they need.

“We’re really fortunate in 1 CMBG that a flanking organization of ours is the 3rd Canadian Division Support Group (3 CDSG),” explained Colonel Bob Ritchie, Commander 1 CMBG.

As a support formation, 3 CDSG has a range of professionals at its disposal to provide needed support not only to the soldiers, but also to the soldiers’ families and friends.

An extra layer of support from those who have been there

The support 3 CDSG provides is flexible and can be tailored to each family’s needs, Col Ritchie said. It serves as an extra layer beyond the planning soldiers and their families have already done in building their own support networks.

As an example, he said, the 3 CDSG network can step in and step up in the immediate aftermath of an incident if the soldier’s family’s own network is not available. It is a 24-7 service that can muster resources if required, even if the only resource needed is someone to watch the kids so the spouse at home can deal more easily with the situation at hand.

In addition, the 3 CDSG network is well-versed in the military world. While a personal network has the shared experience of knowing a family both before and after it became a military family, it might lack all the necessary background, Col Ritchie explained.

“The military’s a unique place to be and it’s got unique challenges,” he said. “It’s got its own language and its own culture. I think it draws great strength when a military spouse is able to reach out to other people who have been through those challenges before.”

Strong family, strong soldier

Bringing this necessary support to the forefront is a priority of the 3rd Canadian Division (3 Div) leadership, particularly Brigadier-General Trevor Cadieu, Commander 3 Div, who has been dedicated to the well-being of the family and who views the family as an extension of the soldier, explained Col Ritchie.

“If we want to have an effective soldier, we need to have a strong family,” Col Ritchie said. “What we’re really trying to do with the Division and the Canadian Army is marshal and harness all the different resources around a soldier and the soldier’s family.”

Military Family Resource Centres are key

One of the largest parts of that support network, but by no means the only component, is the Military Family Resource Centre (MFRC) at each base.

For Colonel Scott McKenzie, Commander 3 CDSG, the MFRCs in Edmonton and elsewhere in the Division provide an invaluable service.

“The MFRC provides exceptional services at each of the bases within the 3rd Canadian Division’s area of operations,” he said. “The warriors of 1 CMBG are receiving outstanding support in Edmonton, Shilo and Wainwright that enables their success throughout the challenging and often stressful Road to High Readiness journey.”

In addition, Col McKenzie said additional resources are being brought in to support Reserve Canadian Brigade Groups (CBGs) who will be contributing essential augmentation to 1 CMBG on deployments. Most recently, a full-time unit liaison officer was hired to assist in the Southern Alberta region and support the families of 41 Canadian Brigade Group soldiers on high readiness training.

Edmonton MFRC executive director Roza Parlin said the centre is capable of providing assistance for almost any issue a soldier or family member may experience.

Support before, during and after deployment

“The Edmonton MFRC supports families before, during and after deployments and work-related absences,” she said. “We understand the unique challenges of military life require our programs and services to be adaptable to the needs of our families.”

Among the services available are one-on-one sessions with the centre’s Deployment Co-ordinator to discuss the Road to Mental Readiness, which helps with developing positive mental preparedness.

Families are also encouraged to meet with the deployment team and sign up for emails to find out about social and special events that are offered throughout the year, Ms. Parlin added.

“Our casual and emergency childcare, mental health and wellness team, services for Francophone families as well as child, youth, and parenting support are a few of the services available to military families as they prepare for high readiness,” she said.

Meanwhile, out at Canadian Forces Base Shilo in Manitoba, Lieutenant Colonel Dave MacIntyre, who was Base Commander at the time, had high praise for what the MFRC does.

 “The Shilo MFRC and other community service providers have a lot of corporate knowledge and experience in supporting our families during high-readiness training or deployment,” he said. “Soldiers from the 1st Regiment, Royal Canadian Horse Artillery and the 2nd Battalion, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry should have full confidence that their families will continue to get the high level of service they’ve come to expect.”

Intelligence Operators are the Army’s ‘information-slingers’

Her Excellency Martine Moreau, Canada’s Ambassador to the State of Kuwait, and General Jonathan Vance, Chief of the Defence Staff, cut the ribbon to officially open the National Intelligence Centre in Kuwait on April 26, 2016. Canadian Army Intelligence Operators with knowledge of the languages and cultural practices of countries where they deploy are an invaluable asset. Photo: Operation IMPACT, Department of National Defence. ©2016 DND/MDN Canada

By Steven Fouchard, Army Public Affairs

Petawawa, Ontario — Canadian Army (CA) Intelligence Operators do not get much in the way of public credit for their highly secretive work.

Whatever the trade may lack in visibility, however, noted Sergeant James Hutchinson, who is a member of the CAIntelligence Regiment, is far outweighed by its impact.

“In Afghanistan, our unit provided much of the actionable intelligence for the entire Canadian Battle Group in Kandahar,” he recalled. “That’s a big thing when you think about it. A general is trusting you with the lives of 2,500 Canadian soldiers. You’re expected to be accurate so that when you say, ‘The bad guys are here,’ there aren’t any surprises.”

“Intelligence Operators are soldiers first,” he added, “but we are not ‘gun-slingers’ we are ‘information-slingers’. Our job is to take information gathered in the battlespace and turn it into intelligence. Our weapons of trade are computers and people skills that enable us to communicate that intelligence accurately and in a timely manner.”

Sgt Hutchinson entered military service in 2003, when the British Columbia native had just finished his first year of college across the country in Ottawa.

“I didn’t want to go back to my home town just to work for the summer months. The Reserves offered an excellent opportunity to join a local unit in Ottawa, make a decent living during the summer months, and have part-time job during the school year.”

He had hoped to join the Intelligence trade at the time but it was then limited to applicants who had time in other trades under their belts. Sgt Hutchinson transferred to a Reserve Intelligence unit after serving four years as a Signals Operator.

“I liked it so much I decided to make a career out of it and transferred to the Regular Force in the summer of 2008.”

His current role as Operations Non-Commissioned Officer for the Intelligence Regiment is more administrative than some of his past experiences – he ensures the unit has all the resources needed for training exercises, for example – but Sgt Hutchinson said the variety of tasks available is part of the attraction.

“This trade has a wide spectrum of working environments. One end is working as a collator or analyst in a team environment. At the other end you may find yourself working independently or in a very small team. Later in your career you can apply to work as a liaison in a Canadian embassy or for NATO positions outside of Canada. Many of these foreign postings are unique to the Intelligence trade.”

Discretion is, of course, an important quality in an Intelligence Operator, Sgt Hutchinson noted, but only one of many.

“Someone who is looking to join the intelligence trade should be naturally inquisitive and possess good oral and written communication skills,” he said.

“You may find yourself working alone and solely responsible for the intelligence function, so being intuitive and able to think outside the box is a must. As far as working with computers, an applicant should be able to pick up on new software and know how to gather information from online sources, including social media.”

Increased diversity in the ranks to better reflect the population it serves is a universal priority for the Canadian Armed Forces and Sgt Hutchinson said first-hand knowledge of other cultures and languages is particularly an asset in the intelligence trade.

“Depending upon where we deploy to or focus on, those individuals are heavily leaned on as walking encyclopaedias. Knowing the local culture and customs is a big part of intelligence work and gives Canada an edge. If you’re that person, you can expect to be part of major meetings with locals and officials to help understand the local people.”

Intelligence Operators:

• Collect, process, analyze and disseminate intelligence;

• Identify and analyze intelligence and information from multiple sources, which is likely to affect military operations, national policies, and objectives;

• Advise and assist in the coordination of intelligence tools and surveillance systems;

• Provide intelligence briefings and written products to commanders and their staff;

• Operate, manage and safeguard information technology systems;

• Work with and safeguard highly classified material.

Road to High Readiness ends: 1 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group ready to deploy

Members of the Canadian Army conduct a combined arms attack on the fictional village of Todan during Exercise MAPLE RESOLVE, held May 8 to 24, 2019 at 3rd Canadian Division Support Base Edmonton (Detachment Wainwright). Photo: Private Jordyn Anderson, Canadian Forces Base Detachment Wainwright Imaging. ©2019 DND/MDN Canada.

By Tim Bryant, Western Sentinel newspaper with files from Army Public Affairs

Edmonton, Alberta — The latest edition of Canadian Army’s largest training exercise – Exercise MAPLE RESOLVE (Ex MR) – took place in May 2019, marking the end of the most recent three-year cycle of the CA’s Road to High Readiness.

Taking over the training area at 3rd Canadian Division Support Base Edmonton (Detachment Wainwright) from May 8 to 24, 2019, the exercise brought together more than 5,000 personnel from across 3rd Canadian Division to ensure the Division’s readiness to be deployed on operations in Canada and around the world.

Regular and Reserve Force members of the headquarters staff, infantry, armoured corps, engineers, artillery, combat logistics, mortars, and influence activities units enabling capabilities in any environment.

Ex MR serves many purposes for the Candian Armed Forces (CAF), but the primary objective is to prepare soldiers to operate in an ever-changing military world. To that end, Lieutenant-Colonel Joseph Pospolita, Deputy Commander Canadian Manoeuvre Training Centre (CMTC) – the entity that runs Ex MR and other training exercises across Canada – explained he and his team try to give soldiers “the most realistic and most challenging training possible.”

Training so tough soldiers doubt deployment could be as bad

The training can be so tough and so demanding that soldiers have often doubted an actual combat situation can be as difficult and challenging as what CMTC provided in training.

LCol Pospolita recounted soldiers having told him, “There’s no way that’s going to happen.”

When they return from their deployments, their minds have been changed.

“However, they go into theatre and come back and say, ‘Thank you for preparing me for that day; we didn’t realize it was going to happen,’” LCol Pospolita said.

The shift to a more complex and challenging training experience is a relatively recent one, brought about by the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks in New York City and elsewhere in the United States, explained Brigadier-General Trevor Cadieu, Commander 3rd Canadian Division.

“It fundamentally changed the way we had to look at how we trained our troops,” he said.

Prior to September 11, the CAF trained in a “risk averse” manner, without a professional opposing force to force soldiers to think and react to changing situations.

Afghanistan saw rapid shifts from combat to humanitarian assistance and back

That meant that when BGen Cadieu was sent to Afghanistan in 2002, he didn’t feel he was prepared for an actual combat environment where he would be faced with enemy forces trying to kill him, whom he was also trying to kill, nor for the shifts in focus on a daily basis.

“I certainly was not equipped to go from a combat situation in one moment, to dealing with the local Afghan populace in another – distributing humanitarian assistance – to going back to a combat scenario immediately following it,” he explained.

All those lessons led to the present-day Ex MR.

This year, the primary training audience, 1 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group (1 CMBG) was faced with “a living, breathing, thinking, well-equipped enemy,” BGen Cadieu explained.

Soldiers were placed in as realistic an environment as possible. They were out in the Wainwright training area for two weeks, in austere conditions, to simulate being on deployment. They had to eat, sleep and remain alert in the field.

Because the leaders, or any other soldiers, were not able to stay awake and alert for the whole exercise, they needed to plan out their sleep and activity cycles in greater detail.

“They are going straight for the next two weeks,” BGen Cadieu said. “They can't fake their way through that.”

It’s a stark departure from the 1990s when BGen Cadieu joined the military.

Deliberately taken to the point of failure

“Today we are deliberately taking them to the point of failure,” he said.

Working in the Wainwright training area is not easy, explained LCol Pospolita. It features changing terrain with deceiving undulating hills, a river runs through it, and there is a major hill feature to contend with. Troops can easily get lost or stuck in the training area, especially when they’re on day five or six with minimal sleep.

Add in an opposing force and insurgents hidden among the locals in the exercise scenario, and it’s an environment that aims to test every bit of a soldier’s training.

Current social media aspect ‘cannot be ignored’

Ex MR aims to be as realistic as possible, and that includes incorporating a social media component accessible to both 1 CMBG and the enemy forces.

“Knowing the way things are, you cannot ignore social media,” explained LCol Pospolita. “We have a closed social media network, which we bring in for Ex MR. In each of the various towns [in the training area], there are capabilities to have internet cafes, and we have our own ‘Fakebook’ where people can go.”

The ‘Fakebook’ allows the enemy forces to keep tabs on what 1 CMBG is doing, while 1 CMBG can use it to find out what is happening around the area. But since it’s a social media network and anyone can use it, it’s also a tool to spread information and misinformation from and about both sides.

In other words, it can be used as part of an ‘information operations’ campaign, explained Lieutenant-Colonel Ross Bonnell, Chief of Staff at CMTC.

“We're challenging the brigade to see how they respond to this, how they're going to respond, how they're going to try and influence how they're going to try and portray their message to influence the locals,” he said.

Beyond the Canadian training element of Ex MR, there is also a large international presence during the exercise.

Success of Ex MR brings increasing numbers of international  players

There were approximately 1,000 foreign Allies in attendance, including more than 500 members of the U.S. military, a platoon of French soldiers, Britons and Australians.

LCol Pospolita explained the influx of Allies is a result of how successful Ex MR has been over the years.

“As everyone starts seeing the success of it, other nations want to participate,” he said. “And much the same way, we send personnel to their exercises as well, because there's always something we can learn on how to do something better.”

LCol Bonnell added that having Allied members in attendance and participating in Ex MR in various capacities, from acting as enemy forces to observing and helping run the exercise, benefits the relationships Canada has with its partners and increases interoperability.

“It's a good problem for the Brigade to navigate, because we know that wherever the Army or 1 CMBG deploys, it's going to be in a multinational context,” he said.

A training exercise is the best time to come to a mutual understanding when it comes to language and terminology differences, LCol Bonnell added.

1 CMBG now ready to deploy

At the end of Ex MR, 1 CMBG became ready for deployment from July 1, 2019 to June 30, 2020.  Possible deployments may include:

• Operation REASSURANCE – Poland;

• Operation UNIFIER – Ukraine;

• Operation IMPACT – Iraq;

• Forward Group for High Readiness missions to places such as Afghanistan, Latvia, and Mali; and

• Operation LENTUS – domestic operations support at home.

LCol Bonnell said there’s one outcome and piece of feedback he was especially looking for.

“What we want to hear from soldiers is that it was a real challenge,” he said.

Former Ceremonial Guard drum major pilots a flypast at Fortissimo

Captain Erik Temple pictured after landing at Erik Nielsen Whitehorse International Airport (which is named after his grandfather) in a CT-156 Harvard II. Capt Temple is a former Army musician and current Air Force flight instructor who recently reunited with his former unit to perform a flypast during the 2019 Fortissimo event in Ottawa. Photo: provided by Captain Erik Temple.

By Steven Fouchard, Army Public Affairs

Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan — For Captain Erik Temple, a former drum major with the Ceremonial Guard (CG) of the Canadian Armed Forces, Fortissimo 2019 was a reunion.

Fortissimo is a military and musical spectacular performed every summer in Ottawa. Prominently featuring the CG, it never fails to inspire awe in the thousands of spectators it draws to Parliament Hill.

Now a Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) flight instructor, Capt Temple was invited to pilot a CT-156 Harvard II in the flypast that is always an exciting part of the Fortissimo experience. This year’s event took place from July 18 to 20.

Capt Temple was happy to share, in a recent interview, his many fond memories of serving with the CG. One might assume Army musicians and Air Force pilots are worlds apart but, said Capt Temple, they have at least one important quality in common: passion.

The following interview has been edited for length and clarity.

Q1: What drew you to the CG?

I was born and raised in Ottawa. Growing up, seeing the Guard on Canada Day and the daily Changing of the Guard was very inspiring. I used to have a poster of the Guard on my wall as a child and always wanted to do it.

I joined the Governor General’s Foot Guards first. I was in Grade 10 at the time, 16 years old. Mum and Dad had to sign the bottom line for me. At the time, I went to Canterbury High School, which is arts-centred.

Lieutenant-Colonel (Retired) Frances Chilton-MacKay was teaching at the time, before becoming the Foot Guards’ Director of Music. She said, ’Erik, are you interested in joining the Foot Guards?’ And I said, ‘Are you kidding me? What an amazing opportunity!’ And that’s how it all linked together.

After graduating high school, I went to the University of Ottawa to stay in Ottawa with the Guards. My first year, I auditioned successfully for the Ceremonial Guard.

When I finished university, I moved into a full-time position co-ordinating the nationwide audition tour and all the administration in the off-season, as well as teaching Basic Military Qualification courses. I spent six summer seasons there.

My family has a military background, which inspired me to join the CAF. Both my grandfathers left me some rather large shoes to fill.

One was an Army Major with the Dental Corps and the Royal Canadian Regiment. The other was a Lancaster pilot in World War Two, who was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for his actions. He later went on to serve as Minister of National Defence and deputy PM as well. In fact, his service to Canada and background in aviation was so extensive the Yukon Government renamed the airport in Whitehorse in his honour: Erik Nielsen Whitehorse International Airport.

Q2: What was your main instrument?

I was a drummer/percussionist. Historically, a senior infantry warrant officer held the Drum Major position, but things worked out over the years and with the support of the senior leadership at the time I was able to serve as a Drum Major in my final year with CG. What a privilege. It was just such an honour to wear the scarlet and gold embroidered tunic and step onto Parliament Hill at 10 o’clock precisely every morning.

I studied piano my whole life and always wanted to play another instrument. I subjected my parents to the agony of a teenager wanting a drum set [laughs]. They supported me fully as I was always fascinated by the sound of the drums and their prominence in military music. 

Q3: Looking back on those years, what moments stand out in your memory?

One that comes to mind is Canada Day on Parliament Hill. I believe it was 2010 when Her Majesty was in attendance. Performing in front of her on Canada’s birthday in front of thousands of people－that just makes the hair stand up on the back of your neck. The following year, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were there.

In 2009, we travelled to Washington DC and performed with the U.S. Army band ‘Pershing’s Own’－ a joint concert with them on Capitol Hill. Those were some pretty unique opportunities.

Q4: What made you want to move over to the Air Force?

I was slightly obsessed with planes as a kid. With my family background, it was always meant to be, it was just a question of how to make it happen. Being an RCAF pilot wasn’t an option for me when I first joined due to poor eyesight. In the CG’s off-season, I would go to work during the day and went to complete my civilian pilot licenses at night and on the weekends. At some point, they opened laser eye surgery to pilots so I had the surgery, which opened the Air Force door that I thought was closed. I then applied for the component transfer and it took about a year for it all to happen. 

Q5: You’re now a flight instructor. What was your path to that role?

I was awarded my wings as a Rotary Wing Pilot. I was posted to 408 Tactical Helicopter Squadron in Edmonton. I actually spent a few years there flying the CH-146 Griffon working once again with the Army. We were part of Operation LENTUS for the Fort McMurray forest fires. I got the chance to fly across our country from coast to coast on the Griffon.

From there, I was able to return to Moose Jaw as there was a flight instructor opening at the time. I have been in Moose Jaw for two years now on the CT-156 Harvard II. You get to train student pilots from scratch. Almost every pilot in the RCAF is trained at 15 Wing in Moose Jaw.

It is such a reward when you see your students work tirelessly to earn their wings and end up flying operationally.

Q6: How did you feel about the idea of returning to Fortissimo?

Fortissimo is the premier CG event of the summer. They had flypasts back when I was there. I said I’d love to do it one day and it’s been on the bucket list for a while. I don’t think there’s anything better than playing the 1812 Overture as the sun sets in the massed band with the guns of 30th Field Regiment and the Dominion Carilloneur [the musician who plays the Peace Tower carillion, an instrument consisting of 53 bells].

Q7: Are there lessons from the CG that still apply in the RCAF?

Absolutely. The Guard instils attention to detail, accuracy and precision. The psychomotor skills and technique of playing an instrument and flying an aircraft are quite similar.

The teamwork required and crew cohesion are nearly identical. These highly motivated soldiers and air personnel are extremely passionate about their craft.

With the CG it was the love of music, and the passion pilots have for aviation is the same. When you do something you love, you never really work a day in your life.

To do those things in service to Canada － it’s an honour.

Shilo soldiers give community centre outdoor facelift in Brandon, Manitoba

Members of Real Property Operations Unit (West) at Canadian Forces Base Shilo spray concrete parking lot barriers at Westridge Community Centre on May 23, 2019 in Brandon, Manitoba during the city’s United Way event called Week of Caring. Photo: Jules Xavier, Shilo Stag newspaper.

By Jules Xavier, Shilo Stag newspaper

Brandon, Manitoba — Each year United Way Brandon embarks on a community project called Week of Caring, where the city identifies a community centre or like venue in need of volunteer support.

Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Shilo supports this great activity annually by providing volunteer support for one day.

According to United Way organizers, the nature of the work is general repairs, landscaping, painting and cleanup to mention a few possibilities.

This year, military members from CFB Shilo volunteered May 23 at Westridge Community Centre on Willowdale Crescent.

CFB Shilo’s team of enthusiastic military members were tasked with a number of work projects, including repairing and replacing outdoor rink boards, repairing chain link fencing, minor landscaping and clean-up and a small painting project that saw concrete parking lot barriers spray painted safety yellow.

A storage shed was also repaired, with the roof redone with new shingles.

Starting at 9 a.m., they completed their final task just before 4 p.m. All materials were supplied by the community centre.

Base Commander Lieutenant-Colonel David MacIntyre helped with the arena boards when he arrived, while Base Regimental Sergeant-Major Chief Warrant Officer James Doppler co-ordinated the work parties and served Tim Hortons coffee and Timbits provided by the United Way Brandon team. It was one of their final events as CFB Shilo’s Command Team prior to the base’s change of command ceremony on June 18. 

Real Property Operations Unit (West) Detachment Shilo was also part of this year’s work party, with Second-in-Command Captain Peter Fullola and a number of his tradesmen offering their construction expertise, especially on the shed roofing and arena boards work.

Carpenter Corporal Aaron Legg mentored those working on removing and replacing the arena boards during this major work project, which came to fruition once additional wood was secured after the initial supply ran out.

Watching the work parties doing their various tasks, United Way Brandon Chief Executive Officer Cynamon Mychasiw said she’s always appreciative of the contribution to the Day of Caring program provided by military members from CFB Shilo.

“It’s wonderful the volunteer work being done by soldiers from CFB Shilo, especially having the construction engineers being part of this year’s program. They do so much in one day when they participate.”

Species at risk in good hands at Ottawa’s Connaught Ranges and Primary Training Centre

A typical snapping turtle such as those being protected at Ottawa’s Connaught Ranges and Primary Training Centre. Snapping turtles are a species at risk in Ontario. Photo: Pixabay.com

By Steven Fouchard, Army Public Affairs

The Connaught Ranges and Primary Training Centre (CRPTC) in Southwest Ottawa is a major hub for military and police firearms training.

With that in mind, CRPTC probably sounds less than hospitable to wildlife, but it is actually a safe haven for a wide range of plant, animal and insect species designated by government authorities as endangered or on the cusp of becoming so.

That is thanks to the Department of National Defence (DND) and its federal government colleagues at Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) who work closely together to ensure compliance with legislation that protects those species – ranging from butternut trees and monarch butterflies to snapping turtles and bald eagles.

In fact, explained Paul Haight, a PSPC Environmental Advisor responsible for environmental support to the DND-owned facility, safety concerns at CRPTC ensure human activity on the site is so limited that much of it is more ecologically diverse than Gatineau Park, one of the most popular wooded recreational areas in the capital region.

‘Good neighbour’ policy

“DND lands are home to an abundance of different species, thanks in part to the limited human activity on the sites,” he said.

“You don't get a lot of human activity at Connaught besides routine maintenance and/or DND training, so there is a back area that is pretty pristine. And we have this ‘good neighbour’ policy of trying to meet or exceed federal, provincial, and municipal regulations at all of our sites.”

PSPC acts as property manager, among other roles, for federal government departments and operates at CRPTCunder a memorandum of understanding with DND.

Mr. Haight joined PSPC in 2001, after spending much of the 1990s working as an environmental advisor and consultant in the private sector. The impetus for his current work was provided by Canada’s Species at Risk Act, which was adopted in 2002.

PSPC, previously known as Public Works and Government Services Canada, responded with the creation of programs to assess species at risk on government lands. A thorough survey of CRPTC – just over 1,000 hectares of land – was completed in 2014 and will be updated in 2019.

“It is an area that is thriving with species,” Mr. Haight said. “We found 22 species at risk.”

PSPC’s response has included making improvements to animal habitats and creating management plans with a communication brochure to keep all occupants aware of the species on the site and working together to help protect them.

“One of the issues was turtles coming from the Ottawa River making their way in for nesting would end up going onto the range,” he added. “We actually created a turtle nesting area as a buffer between the river and the range. We brought in a biologist who planned the area. You'll still see them at Connaught walking along the roads, so we've posted turtle crossing signs trying to make people aware.”

PSPC and DND took a similarly hands-on approach with bat species calling the facility home – one that also has health benefits for the human population.

“We installed bat houses to protect and promote habitat,” said Mr. Haight. “Bats, as you know, eat a lot of mosquitoes. We do treatment for West Nile virus and having more bats means reducing the mosquito population.”

Looking ahead, Mr. Haight said PSPC is contemplating an assessment of butternut trees in the area. The species is listed as endangered in both the federal Species at Risk Act and Ontario’s Endangered Species Act. A recovery action plan could also have long-lasting benefits for 30 other species of conservation concern.

“We may take samples of them as a genetic marker because a lot of them are being affected by disease,” Mr. Haight added. “If we have a healthy population of trees we may be able to grow them and then replant them elsewhere to re-establish a population.”