The Brigade - WS15

MEDAL OF BRAVERY

70 YEARS OF SERVICE

EXERCISE ARCTIC BISON

THE ARMY RESERVES OF SASKATCHEWAN, MANITOBA AND NORTHWEST ONTARIO

THE MAGAZINE OF 38 CANADIAN BRIGADE GROUP

THE BRIGADEWINTER SPRING 2015

It is with sadness that I pen my last introduction to The Brigade. It is unbelievable that almost two years have passed since I assumed command in 2013. On 13 June, 38 Canadian Brigade Group will again celebrate a renewal of leadership as Colonel Geoff Abthorpe becomes the next Brigade Commander. Colonel Abthorpe is a great leader, and I am certain that the brigade will thrive under his hand.

Additionally, the Brigade Deputy Commander, Lieutenant Colonel Malcolm Young will be leaving his post and moving to a position of greater responsibility. I can truly say that Lieutenant Colonel Young has had great effect as Deputy Commander over the past two years by furthering the aims of soldier care and career management and providing a Regular Force Commander with pertinent advice on the intricacies of the Army Reserve.

Over the past two years, we have seen the positive effects of Brigade Revitalization such as the implementation of combined arms collective training, the inauguration of the Saskatchewan BMQ Cooperative Programme, a fully manned and trained Brigade Recruiting Group, a significant increase in individual training throughput, increased identity and mess reinvigoration to name just a few successes.

Additionally, 38 CBG continues to demonstrate true readiness with the deployment of the Manitoba Domestic Response Company for Op LENTUS 14, as well as having set the conditions for the Arctic Response Company Group final operational capability by March 2016.

In terms of core skills achievement, the Brigade Sergeant Major and I were humbled by the achievement of the Brigade Canadian Patrol Concentration Team generated by the Winnipeg Infantry Tactical Group and led by Sergeant Bernier. This team was presented the Commander Canadian Army Pennant as the top Army Reserve Team for 2014! What an incredible testament to soldier skills and a clear demonstration of readiness.

As I leave command, I see a bright future and a continued meaningful role for the Army Reserve and 38 CBG in particular. Reserve unique roles embodied by the Arctic Response Company Group, Territorial Battalion Group and Influence Activities Company will continue to provide a force generation, training and retention nexus for the formation. Additionally, the success achieved with Brigade Revitalization and its continued institutionalization will assure the vibrancy of the brigade into the long-term.

It has been an honour to have been your Brigade Commander and to have been able to soldier with some of the best warriors in the Canadian Army.

Ever Forward Never Back!

We are about to begin the Summer Individual Training Cycle after a long hard rewarding Winter/Spring of Collective Training. I commend all of you who attended the exercises, planned the exercises and supported the exercises, job well done. Our collective training events are now generating a greater number of troops in the field, all in the same place developing and honing their professional skills. Remember we do not deploy overseas, deploy domestically helping Canadians or to the North in isolation. We do so as part of a team, collective training exercises help us to train for that eventuality. You are part of a unique group of Canadians who have the honour of responding to your governments call, you must be ready. Readiness at all levels takes a great deal of effort. Each piece of staff work, loading troops on courses, planning the movement of supplies and personnel; these actions although may be seen as day to day activities, are exercising and training for deployments home and abroad. Troops that are trained, capable with properly

functioning equipment is readiness... Be Ready. Understand your role, own your space. Attention to detail isnt simply a statement tossed out when someone forgets to button a shirt pocket; it is a mantra of readiness.

Where ever the Commander and I travel we are sure to mention the collective efforts of the Brigade and the remarkable product you produce. A mission ready Arctic Response Company Group, our Disaster Response Company Group, and the fact that members of our Brigade won the Canadian Patrol Concentration. We are tremendously proud of all your efforts.

Over the last year and half I have had the opportunity to serve with Col Ermel. I have always been impressed with his dedication and conviction to 38 CBG, he always provided over watch for us and for that I am grateful. Col Ermel, thank you for your service to the Brigade!

Progredere Ne Regredere

Colonel Ross Ermel

Brigade Sergeant-Major Al Boucher

Brigade Sergeant-Major Message

Commanders Message

2 Winter Spring 2015

See these icons? Click on it throughout to see related images.

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This magazine was published under the authority of Colonel Ross Ermel,

Commander 38 CBG.

Publisher/ EditorMajor Mike Lagace - 38 CBG PAO

Lead Public Affairs NCMMCpl Draper Houston

PhotographerMCpl Alan Haley and

MCpl Cameron Skrypnyk

DesignerBernice May Tuano and Reanna Joy Rothwell

For more information on 38 Canadian Brigade Group, or to submit articles

for future publicatons, please send to [email protected]

or contact 204-833-2500 ext. 6543

On the Cover:Exercise ARCTIC BISON 2015, held February 13-22 along the length of Lake Winnipeg, focused on challenging training for the Arctic Response Company Group in austere winter conditions.

Back Cover: Lieutenant Grant Reive-Deamel conducts a map briefing with platoon commanders including Sergeant Mike Sinnock (center) and Master Corporal Andreas Buske (center-right) on Ex FIRST RUN.

Features

Gender Diversity on the Gunline

70 Years of Service

Exercise ARCTIC BISON

T. Eaton Cup

Medal of Bravery

Christmas Across The Brigade

3Winter Spring 2015

By Austin M. Davis, Regina Leader-Post

Regina, Sask. One after another, 10 teenagers wearing camouflage attire swore an oath, shook hands with a military officer and became members of the Canadian Army Primary Reserve.

Those students who participated in the ceremony at the Regina Armoury on Monday are the first participants in a new co-op program where they can receive high school credit while completing basic military training.

They have 23 full training days ahead of them before graduation, but students like 16-year-old Madison Holowachuk are eager to learn what the program has to offer and earn two school credits during the process. She believes this opportunity could influence the rest of her life.

At this moment, Im considering joining the army after high school, going through schooling with them and continuing on that path, said Holowachuk, a Grade 11 student at ONeill High School.

Her interest piqued when she heard an announcement about a meeting where you could make money and earn a history credit. She said it sounded like an amazing life experience and felt comfortable with the option to take military training through the school system.

Holowachuk is being paid $45 a day to go through the program and by the time she graduates training at the end of the semester, shell have made more than $2,000.

I think its fair because its through the Canadian military and youre getting offered great opportunities and its not just for high school, its a life possibility, Holowachuk said.

In October, the program drew criticism from peace activists who started a petition in an attempt to stop offering payment and class credits for high school students who complete military training.

Col. Ross Ermel, commander of 38 Canadian Brigade Group, said the boys and girls who enrol are being exposed to the army without an obligation to continue and payment is an important part.

One advantage of receiving pay while theyre undertaking studies is, these same young people dont now have to go and get a job after hours while they should be studying, Ermel said.

He said Reginas program is unique in Canada because its the first of its kind to offer both a core high school Canadian Studies credit and the basic training qualification. If the program is successful here, it could spread from Regina Public Schools and Regina Catholic Schools divisions into Saskatoon and elsewhere.

Well gauge success by the graduates. Theyll vote with their feet, Ermel said.

Damian Claveau-Haasen, a Grade 11 student at Thom Collegiate, said he has always admired people in uniform and aspires to become one of them. For him, money and school credits were secondary considerations.

Serving your country is the most honourable thing one can do, he said

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Students Eager to get School Credit for Military Training


approximately 75 meters. There were three rooms with the doors open at the end and that told me that they had not been cleared by staff yet.

I entered the hall and began to clear the rooms and close the doors. While doing that, I was telling the fire system operator that it was a real fire and to call the fire trucks back.

At the last room I heard coughing and realized that a patient was trapped in the room with the fire. About 45 seconds had passed so far, and I couldno longer see the end of the hall because of smoke.

I knew the fire department was about five minutes away at this point because they were cancelled, and with the smoke and heat in that room the patient would not last five minutes.

I radioed my partners that I was entering the room to try and recover the patient. I attempted to find the patient three times by crawling in the room and sweeping the area to feel for the patient. The smoke was so thick you could not see your hand in front of your face. On the last attempt, I had run out of air and was forced to breathe while still in the room and immediately suffered from the effects of the smoke inhalation and had to retreat into the hall.

One of my partners Tyler Campbell was there and took over the search for the patient, as I retreated past the fire doors to clean air, my partner was able to find the patient on the first search and brought her out of the room into the hall, by then he was overcome with smoke and could go no further. Two more of my partners Stacy Anweiler and Roel Benedicto entered the smoke filled hall and recovered the patient and our partner Tyler and brought them both back to safety.

From there the patient, Tyler, and I were treated for smoke inhalation in emergency. I dont see myself as doing anything special, I saw a need and did what needed to be done.

By MCpl Draper Houston, 38 CBG PANCM

Saskatoon, Sask. On March 6, Corporal Christopher Clark of the North Saskatchewan regiment was awarded the Medal of Bravery by His Excellency the Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor Genral of Canada, for his actions in saving the life of a patient at the hospital he worked as a security guard in his civilian career.

I was scared to death that we would not be able to find the person, said Corporal Clark. We had a job to do, and it needed to be done.

Corporal Clark attributes his actions on the day to the training and experience with the North Saskatchewan Regiment.

I can look back on my time in the Army and my training and say with confidence that it was that experience and nothing else, Clark said. There was a job to do, and I did it.

Here is his account of the event:

We got the fire alarm for the Dube Mental Health Center on March 15, 2013 at 19:30. The previous day, we had another fire in that building and as a result the smoke detectors were still contaminated and not functioning, so the only reason for the alarm to go off was a sprinkler head had been activated by the heat of the fire. When the alarm went off, the Saskatoon Fire Department was called and dispatched immediately. The fire control center for Royal University Hospital is located in another building in the basement, and it received confusing reports from the fire system. It reported that a steam line had ruptured not a sprinkler head, so the person operating it cancelled the fire department thinking it was a steam line.

Meanwhile, several other Security Officers and I were on scene and knew it was a fire. The fire doors had closed to that wing and contained a good deal of the smoke. When I first got there, I could see down to the end of the hall

Reservist Attributes Military Training for His Actions in

Earning the Medal Of Bravery

Governor General David Johnston presented 40 Medals of Bravery at a ceremony at Rideau Hall, on March 6, 2015. "None of you would call yourself a hero," said His Excellency. "You were simply going about your daily routine when you were suddenly faced with an extreme situation. You did what you knew had to be done. You did the extraordinary. I am so inspired by your courage, by your willingness to risk your own safety to help someone in desperate need." Created in 1972, Decorations for Bravery recognize people who risked their lives to try to save or protect the lives of others. The Medal of Bravery (M.B.) recognizes acts of bravery in hazardous circumstances.

5Winter Spring 2015

In June of this year, I will finish my appointment as Brigade Deputy Commander culminating almost 30 years of service within 38 Canadian Brigade Group.

I have had the good fortune to serve with hundreds of members of the Units that make up 38 CBG during that time period and consider that a true privilege.

Each of the Units in the Brigade is an institution within our communities. As institutions, Units are made up of the contributions of thousands of soldiers throughout their respective histories. As present serving members, we are each responsible for the legacy of the generations of service our Units represent.

I recently participated in an Army Reserve Working Group in Ottawa focusing on retention. It was clear to me that of all the CBGs, our Brigade, while we may be smaller, is the most operationally focused. The annual deployment of the Artic Response Company Group during the winter phase vice the summer phase sets us apart from other CBGs. Year over year, 38 CBG soldiers have deployed on Domestic Response tasks, which no other CBG in Canada does.

Our previous contributions to overseas operations and our higher turn out on annual larger scale training events shows a higher level of professionalism, commitment to being a warrior and a full appreciation to the meaning of service to country.

Much of my previous comments focused on our Brigade Revitalization efforts. Revitalization is renewal, revival, regeneration. If you consider the root of this word Vital, I believe that this is the essence of 38 CBG dynamic, energetic, spirited.

Our job is not easy. Our country is faced with ongoing challenges both at home and abroad, and we all have a role to play in achieving missions given to us. I am proud to have worn the Buffalo Patch on my left shoulder and all that it stands for.

I am proud to have served with and lead soldiers of this Brigade over the past 30 years. Having watched our successes, I know that the current and future generations of soldiers will not forget their heritage. They will not let the sacrifice that is represented by their Regimental Colours and their Cap Badge die.

In years to come when I wander into a mess of any Unit in this Brigade, I will look forward to learning how you have sustained your Units, served your Brigade and worn the flag of our Country on your shoulder.

You chose this profession, the next tactical bound belongs to you, and my challenge to you is how will each of us keep our Units and the Brigade vital? How will you contribute to the future, based upon the legacy and sacrifice of those thousands who have come before each of us?

Remember the Brigade motto Progredere Ne Regredere Ever forward never back

Revitalization Message Lieutenant-Colonel Malcolm Young


The following organizations received awards:

Ronin Safety and Rescue Inc. CFLC Award of Excellence for Best Practices in Employer Support: Emergency Services

nominated by Lieutenant-Colonel Sean Moran of the Winnipeg Infantry Tactical Group.

Long & McQuade Musical Instruments CFLC Award of Excellence for Best Practices in Employer Support:

Private Sector nominated by Sergeant Irene Sas of the Royal Winnipeg Rifles Band.

Joe Johnson Equipment CFLC Award of Excellence for Support to Canadian Forces Operations:

Domestic (Private Sector) nominated by Corporal Jeffrey Sheppard of The Fort Garry Horse.

Audio Visual and Classroom Technology Support, University of Manitoba CFLC Award of Excellence for Support to Canadian Forces Operations:

Domestic nominated by Corporal Adrian Zahara of The Fort Garry Horse.

Canad Inns Windsor Park Stereo Nightclub - CFLC Award of Excellence for Best Practices in Employer Support:

Provision of Military Leave nominated by Private Karlee Burke of 38 Signals Regiment.


Winnipeg, Man. Five organizations received awards for their support to Canadas Reserve Force on March 4 at an event hosted by The Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce.

The support of employers and educational institutions for the Reserves remains of paramount importance, said Lieutenant-Colonel Barb McManus, Liaison Officer for the Canadian Forces Liaison Council. This event is our opportunity to recognize and celebrate the outstanding commitment and sacrifice organizations have made not only to Canadas Reserve personnel, but to the Canadian Armed Forces as a whole.

The biannual awards are designed to recognize civilian employers and academic institutions that have shown support toward employees or students who are also Reservists in the Canadian Armed Forces.

Ronin Safety and Rescue Inc.

Audio Visual and Classroom Technology Support, University of Manitoba Long & McQuade Musical Instruments

Photo Credit: MCpl Cam

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Provincial awards ceremony recognizes employers who support Canadian Armed Forces Reservists

7Winter Spring 2015

The top-scoring Primary Reserve team came from 38 Canadian Brigade Group, an Army Reserve Formation of 3rd Canadian Division, headquartered in Winnipeg, Manitoba. The team was comprised of members from the Royal Winnipeg Rifles and the Queens Own Cameron Highlanders of Canada.

By Sgt Justin Bernier, WITG

Wainwright, Alta. On November 19, we touched down at our landing zone which started the clock on the next 26 hours. Lying on the ground as the Griffin helicopters departed, we were blasted with ice particles to the face.

Our first leg had us travelling under the cover of darkness, with a highly present enemy force patrolling in vehicles. Using the natural terrain and selecting particular routes, we managed to remain undetected on our way to the first objective a Partisan link up.

After a brief conversation with the local population, we were escorted from their camp and thrown into another scenario a mass casualty. The actors received varying injuries ranging from mild confusion to collapsed lungs from an explosion the source unconfirmed whether from a mortar attack or from landmines around the area. We did our best to treat and evacuate the casualties before carrying on and moving to our primary mission, the point Recce.

The next leg had us travelling over more challenging terrain and having to link up with competition staff, which proved quite difficult. One of our patrol members sustained a real injury during the mass-casualty scenario and continued to walk with us at a reduced pace. Our timings were slightly off, but we managed to safely pass off our injured member and make our way to the objective.

We managed to observe the enemys activity for 90 minutes. With the effects of fatigue becoming exceedingly present after having travelled approximately 20Km and then stopping, energy re-supplement became extremely important to counter the urge to fall asleep.

At that point, we had only travelled approximately half the total distance. From our prior briefings, it is where most teams had decided to quit. Fortunately, we were welcomed with the rising of the sun, which rejuvenated us to carry on with the remainder of the patrol.

The third leg had us patrolling through rolling hills, which is where we spotted more enemy. Even after altering our route, the enemy still managed to engage us briefly before we decided to break contact. The patrol speed also

significantly reduced as we were dealing with another injured member who stuck with us until the end of the leg.

At that point, the teams resolve to finish the competition was stronger than ever. Upon completing the barbed wire obstacle crossing, we were on to the final stretch.

Fatigue played a major role in the final 15 kilometers. Every break we took became more and more difficult to recover from. Forcing ourselves to carry on, and after some slight confusion, we made our way to the primary landing zone. There, we were guided through a scenario similar to that of a range, which represented enemies at the location, making it unsuitable for helicopter extraction.

With the sun setting, we made our way to the alternate landing zone. Taking the area by force, we established a suitable landing site and sent up an extraction request.

We were picked up by helicopters within the span of an hour. While flying towards the airfield, all the built up anxiety that had accumulated was lifted, knowing that we had given it our all and that we had finished the event.

After quickly unloading our ammo and getting some hot food, we were brought to a building to present our patrol debrief. With a renewed vigour, we generated a brief and presented it to the Task Force Commander with good success.

It is difficult to put into words the motivational speeches that were spoken to the teams during the awards ceremony, but they were powerful enough to help us quickly forget the hardships that we each endured and even inspired us to come back for another attempt. Unfortunately, the team did not come home with a medal placement; however, we were informed later that we were the top placing Reserve team earning us the Canadian Patrol Concentration Pennant.

The esprits-de-corps and comradery generated from the experience gave our whole team an increased appreciation of each other, as well as ourselves.

WITG Team Earns Top Reserve Pennant: Canadian Patrol Concentration



Winnipeg, Man. On February 10th, Master Warrant Officer (Retired) Jack Walton of the Royal Winnipeg Rifles Band was honoured for 70 years of service to the regiment by a formal dinner, presentations and a farewell parade.

I enlisted in 1945, February 10th. I guess I can tell you nowthey wont kick me outI was 13 years old, Walton chuckled. I got on as a boy soldier. The pay back in those days was 25 cents and two streetcar tickets.

Walton was encouraged to join by his father who was also a member of the Royal Winnipeg Rifles Band a pride that Jack also passed down to his son. His son, Corporal Steve Walton, is currently a soldier in the Rifles.

Although Walton officially retired from the Canadian Armed Forces in 1987, he continued to serve. In fact, he started volunteering the very next parade night after his retirement.

What can I say? Nobody told me to go home, grinned Walton when asked why he continued to volunteer with the band.

Walton even has an award named after him that is awarded yearly to the person that exemplifies dedication to the band.

Each year, the band senior leadership get together to decide who should receive the award, said Sergeant Claude Ouellette. Every year, we run it by Jack and he always has the same person in mind.

Some of Waltons most memorable moments include playing trumpet in countless parades across

the country, guarding the road during the Royal Wedding of Charles and Diana, and being called from school by his father to come and play with the Rifles Band when World War II ended.

That was something to see confetti falling down, paper falling down, people hugging and kissing one another and singing, Hurray! The Boys will soon be home. It was so crowded that the trombones had to play up in the air so they could follow the band where they go up and down Main Street.

MWO (Retd) Walton was the reviewing officer at his dismissal parade when the Royal Winnipeg Rifles honoured his dedication to the regiment at Minto Armouries on February 10th.

Members of the Royal Winnipeg Rifles Band pose with MWO (Retired) Jack Walton Photo Credit: MCpl Cam

Skrypnyk, Brett Purdy -CBC New

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WITG Team Earns Top Reserve Pennant: Canadian Patrol Concentration

Reservist Honoured for

70 YEARS OF SERVICE

9Winter Spring 2015

By Capt George Romik, UPAR

Mr. Fred Bickford has been appointed as the Honorary Colonel of the Lake Superior Scottish Regiment. Mr. Bickford presently practices law at Weiler, Maloney, Nelson Barristers & Solicitors in Thunder Bay.

Mr. Bickford was a member of the Regular Army while attending university under the Regular Officer Training Plan (ROTP). After graduation, was posted as a Commissioned Officer to Camp Valcartier, Quebec. While serving with the Brigade Signal Squadron, he completed parachute training in Manitoba and then served with the First (Parachute) Battalion of the Royal 22nd Regiment (the Van Doos).

Mr. Cliff Friesen has been appointed as the Honorary Lieutenant-Colonel of the Lake Superior Scottish Regiment. Mr. Friesen is presently the Co-owner of Thunder Airlines and the President of Best Western Nor'Wester Resort and Conference Centre in Thunder Bay.

Honorary Colonel Bickford and Honorary Lieutenant-Colonel Friesen inspected the Lake Superior Scottish Regiment Battalion Group and talked to the soldiers on the parade.

Honorary Colonel Bickford mentioned, I was particularly impressed with how well the parade was organized and how smoothly and professionally it went from start to finish. I was also impressed by the number of soldiers who participated in the parade, their impeccable dress/deportment, friendliness during our inspection and discernible high calibre. All of that of course reflects well on the LSSR's NCOs and Officers.

Honorary Lieutenant-Colonel Friesen mentioned I would like to say it was a real honor for me to be inducted and introduced as an Honorary Colonel and most important to do the inspection and to meet all of the outstanding Reserves that were present last night. It truly is a night for me to remember.

Honorary Colonels may be appointed for each unit that is commanded by a Lieutenant-Colonel. Honorary Lieutenant-Colonels may be appointed for each unit that is commanded by a Lieutenant-Colonel or a Major.

A special parade was held at the OKelly Armoury on the October 28, 2014 to introduce the Lake Superior Scottish Regiments two Honorary Colonels to the members of the Regiment.

Honorary Colonels Appointed for the Lake Superior Scottish Regiment

Winnipeg Infantry Tactical Group Change of CommandOn February 8, Lieutenant Colonel Sean Moran assumed command of the Winnipeg Infantry Tactical Group (WITG) from Lieutenant Colonel Peter Wut. The WITG consists of The Royal Winnipeg Rifles, The Royal Winnipeg Rifles Band, The Queens Own Cameron Highlanders of Canada and the The Queens Own Cameron Highlanders of Canada Pipes and Drums.

38 Service Batallion Change of CommandOn January 17, Lieutenant Colonel Sean Moran handed over command of 38 Service Battalion to Lieutenant Colonel Guinevere Borque in a parade at Minto Armouries.

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By Martin Zeilig, Voxair Photojournalist

Winnipeg, Man. After a formal ribbon cutting ceremony, 17 Wing Commander Colonel Joel Roy, along with a few others, decided to go for a skate around the new community outdoor skating rink off Doncaster Street.

Almost two dozen military and civilian employees from 17 Wing were in attendance at the event to mark the rinks official opening took place on January 15.Among them were several personnel from the 38 Combat Engineering Regiment (CER), who prepared the base for the rink under the direction of Wing Housing Liaison Major Phil Dawes and Vic Lee of Defence Construction Canada.

I want to thank CER for their efforts, said Col Roy as he laced up his skates in the nearby community centre just prior to testing out the new rink.

The rink is part of a larger eight to ten year development vision for the entire community. Its one of the first elements to be upgraded as part of the South Side Residential Area Master Plan.

The size of the rink, which is 60 percent the size of a regulation NHL rink, is well suited to needs of the local military community.

The location of the rink will allow for the eventual development of a new community centre between the existing Youth Centre, said Maj Dawes. This will be an important anchor to developing a community core for the RHA. The construction of the rink is consistent with the standard constructions for City of Winnipeg outdoor rinks.

Besides the rink, members of 38 CER also levelled the ground around some of the PMQs to help prevent flooding.

Master Corporal Ryan Perry of 38 CER was the project manager for the initiative. He says that the construction project provided important on-the-job training for his crew.

We were approached by Major Dawes to take on a couple of community improvement projects, he says. What that entailed was to change the grade on some of the areas in the PMQs to prevent flooding, and tied in with that, to construct a community garden and a fitness trail. Then we moved on to the construction of a small hockey rink for the kids and the people who live in the PMQs.

The rink work involved levelling out the ground, bringing in gravel, and creating an excellent surface so that it could be flooded. The boards enclosing the rink were built and installed by a private contractor.

MCpl Ryan called the projects intense work.

Basically, we started with a field, and we had to solve major draining issues for the people there, and with that we created a nice area for a community garden, and a really nice fitness trail, he said, noting that a total of nine members from 38 CER worked on the project.

Over the summer we had qualified equipment operators, like back and dump trucks, so it was an opportunity for these guys to get more time operating the equipment. It was an excellent training opportunity to push these guys along and have them gain confidence and new skills. Were part of the larger CAF community, and we got to showcase to 17 Wing what our capabilities are.

The rink, grading, fitness trail and community gardens are just a few of the investments 17 Wing is making to help improve life at CFB Winnipeg said Col Roy.

This year (2014), when we sat down on how we were going to plan the budget, one of the objectives was how we were going to invest in our military community, he said.

Earlier, we had a town hall meeting with many ideas. These things take a while. This year we were extremely successful in putting money where our families will benefit. Im extremely proud of whats been accomplished. There are many people with a lot of talent.

Sapper Kyle Baricz-Ives

Members of 38 CER look on as 17 Wing Commander Colonel Joel Roy cuts the ribbon

38 CER Integral in 17 Wing Rink Construction

11Winter Spring 2015

Bombardier Skye Kingston-Collins fires the gun

Pte Watson after firing a C6

Lieutenant Joyelle Norris

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By MCpl Lynn Danielson, 116 IND FD BTY UPAR

We were preparing to engage targets as part of the local defence of the gun position on the Sunday morning of Ex FROZEN GUNNER (14-15 Mar 15 at CFB Shilo, MB). Bombardier Jason Hertz is running Private Tiffany Watson through her C6 drills. I am hoping I can get a good photo while she is firing.

Then I glance to my far left and see Lieutenant Joyelle Norris peering through vector binos, observing the centre of arc. We have not seen her all weekend, but have heard her voice constantly on the means as both the Recce Officer and Command Post Officer. It appears she is now the Gun Position Officer as well.

Just beyond where Lt Norris is standing, Bdr Skye Kingston-Collins is manning the #2 position on Gun #2. That too would be a nice photo. I already have a photo of Sgt Lejla Imamovic supervising technicians in the Command Post (CP). She is a mainstay on 38 Artillery Tactical Group (ATG) exercises who fills any number of key positions on the gunline

Then it occurs to me, in just a matter of minutes I have seen four women busy on the gunline women in the combat arms. Up until 26 years ago, the positions held by women in the Canadian Armed Forces were in administrative or support roles; women were unable to hold positions in the combat arms. It is encouraging to see how far we have come. The theme of this years International Womens Day on March 8th was Strong Women Strong World and I am seeing that right before my eyes.

When describing the influencers who have helped her as a young reserve officer, Lt Norris credits both junior leadership in supporting my transition

[from NCM to Officer] and learning development, and senior leadership that allows me to make mistakes and learn from them. In some cases, it is women filling these leadership positions and serving as a positive influence to others.

2Lt David Small was on his first gun exercise and spent time with Sgt Imamovic in the CP.

She is very switched on and a good teacher. I learned a lot, he said.

On a personal note, I would not be taking photos and writing this article if not for the mentorship of the previous 38 CBG Public Affairs Officer, Captain Donna Riguidel.

The other members of my gun detachment from 116th Independent Field Battery fostered an environment based on positive teamwork that produces optimum results and high confidence levels.

I dont see a member of my gun det as a man or a woman. They are a member of my gun and they have a job to do just like everyone else, states Sgt Ryan Scott.

That sentiment is echoed by Sgt Imamovic: I am a gunner first, a soldier second, and a woman third.

We are a TEAM, says WO Fred Pratt, summarizing the discussion most succinctly.

After much research and enquiry, unequivocally regardless of gender, it is the people we work with, side by side, that influence our paths and performance as women and men in the Canadian Armed Forces.

GENDER DIVERSITY ON THE GUNLINE


Ex Bison Warrioraug 15-23

EXERCISE ARCTIC BISON 2015

Exercise ARCTIC BISON 2015, held February 13-22 along the length of Lake Winnipeg, focused on challenging training for the Arctic Response Company Group in austere winter conditions.


EXTREME CONDITIONS PUT SOLDIERS TO THE TEST


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By MCpl Cam Skrypnyk, 38 CBG

Lake Winnipeg, Man. On February 13, 150 soldiers of the Arctic Response Company Group (ARCG) embarked on what proved to be a true test of both character and equipment on the ice of Lake Winnipeg, Manitoba. Exercise ARCTIC BISON 2015 (Ex AB15) focused on the ability of the ARCG to sustain itself 300 kilometers from its support base.

Northwestern Ontario, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan form a large region that is varied in terms of geography, climate, ecology, population and industry, said Lieutenant-Colonel Paul Davies, Commanding Officer 38 Territorial Battalion Group. There is considerable scope for a domestic emergency to occur in a location of challenging terrain.

During Ex AB15, soldiers responded to a simulated major air disaster at a location inaccessible by road due to weather conditions. Soldiers practiced tasks such as preparation of an austere landing strip, support to ground search and rescue, and public relations activities in some communities along the shore of Lake Winnipeg.

My role on Ex ARCTIC BISON was section commander, said Master Corporal Brendon Gogo. I had a great exercise. I love snowmobiling and everything that goes along with it. I learned a lot about recovering sleds, and towing loads efficiently, as we had to do a fair bit of both of these things.

Much like an actual emergency response, Ex AB15 had the ARCG coordinating with multiple other military units and Other Government Departments, including the Royal Canadian Mounted Police,

the 486th Civil Affairs Battalion of the United States Army, the 2nd Battalion, Princess Patricias Canadian Light Infantry, as well as 440 Squadron of the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF).

Personnel were transported to the forward elements on the lake by a CC-138 Twin Otter that made repeated landings on the ice on austere air strips. The Twin Otters robust design and short takeoff and landing capabilities left a lasting impression on the soldiers of the ARCG they could count on support from the RCAF in even the most extreme situations. In all, the Twin Otter flew nearly 50 hours in support of Ex AB15.

We learned more this year than we ever have, said Master Corporal Alan Haley. Lessons learned from problems beyond our control proved invaluable.

The main enemy in winter climates is always the environment itself. Throughout the ARCGs trek north, soldiers and equipment regularly endured temperatures well below -35 C with wind chills to -48 C. They took extreme care to keep the sleds running, and the tails of sled could regularly be seen extending from ten man arctic tents in efforts to thaw frozen engines.

After travelling past Berens River, a lot of [snowmobiles] broke down, said MCpl Haley. We maintained company integrity as a whole and self-recovered every man and piece of kit from the middle of the lake. Standard Operating Procedures for this had never been written, however, the guys didnt give up and it led to the overall success of the mission.

Other major obstacles were large cracks in the ice and broken terrain along the ice sheet. Moving day and night in near white-out conditions on the lake was a task skilfully navigated by the platoons of the ARCG and the support element that provided crucial supplies to the ARCG.

The ARCG moved far into the body of Lake Winnipeg during the exercise. They withdrew from the northern town of Jackhead, Manitoba.

Although the ARCG did not reach its objective of Grand Rapids, the exercise was a success with the outstanding experience and skills gained from facing such adversity. The ARCG will regroup and prepare to head back to the north on Exercise ARCTIC RAM next year with the knowledge and lessons learned from the tough training this year continuously ensuring readiness for a variety of domestic threats including environmental hazards and man-made incidents.

We are only able to truly test our skills and training through challenging exercises such as this, said Colonel Ross Ermel, Commander 38 Canadian Brigade Group.

Facing the austere environment and cold temperatures of Lake Winnipeg allowed our soldiers to hone their skills and remain prepared to operate in arctic conditions for whenever theyre called upon to provide support.

THE ARCTIC RESPONSE COMPANY GROUP CONDUCTS EXERCISE ON LAKE WINNIPEG


By MCpl Leif Olafson, 1 Pl A/Coy WITG

It was a typical start to an exercise Friday night as any other training weekend, with roll call and a brief on the timings and training for the weekend. Training that progressed throughout the weekend was a welcomed change of pace for members of the Winnipeg Infantry Tactical Group.

Immediately following roll call, troops began refresher training on the Browning High Power 9mm pistol. All troops in attendance, some as low as basic trained troops, were given several weapons handling classes to prepare them for the range the following morning.

Concurrently to the weapons handling, Seargant Christopher Toews, a newly trained Helicopter Insertion Instructor(HII), along with some of the the WITGs best rappellers, Sgt Macaoidh, MCpl Olafson, as well as Cpls Longstaffe, Scott and Freeman. Throughout the weekend they conducted multiple helicopter insertions off of the

Minto Garrison mock helicopter skid and low wall. They conducted descents with various levels of kit and weaponry to firmly establish unit standard operating procedures for rappelling a once dying art within the Winnipeg Infantry.

The following morning troops immediately boarded the bus to St. Charles range to use the Browning High Power. First shots went down range around 0910, and the less confident soldiers were given time and instruction to practice and become proficient at their individual drills with the 9mm pistol. The range was highly organised and well ran. All soldiers had successfully passed their personal weapons tests by noon and after a quick range tear down and ammo declaration, box lunches were distributed to be eaten on the bus ride back to the Armouries.

Upon return, round robin style training was conducted. A third of the troops progressed through rappel training up to skid rappels and the other two thirds lead by Sgt Sinnock, the regiments

only Urban Operations Instructor, were brought to the WITGs kill house to learn and practice urban operations.

Soldiers were elated to be conducting this new and exciting training as some were completely unfamiliar with many of these skills and many more have had little time to hone their urban operations and rappelling skills.

The following day, soldiers were put to the test as a confirmation of the weekends training. A platoon assault was planned on the newly erected kill house, encompassing the newly honed skills of helicopter insertion of the assault elements. For the final attack the men demonstrated all they had learned in a short period of time performing well, due to the high level of attention given during instruction. Afterwards in the mess, the talk of the town was how much people learned and enjoyed uncommon training this weekend.

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By MCpl Cam Skrypnyk, 38 CBG Photojournalist

St.Charles Range, Man. They came from all corners 38 Canadian Brigade group and met on the snow swept fields of St. Charles Range. In the early hours of the February 28, Colonel Ross Ermel addressed the soldiers about the importance of putting the mission above all else. Spurred on by their commander, they embarked on a grueling 12 hour patrol putting all their skills and team cohesion to the test.

A team from the Lake Superior Scottish Regiment (LSSR) emerged from a wood line and donned Mission Oriented Protective Posture (MOPP) suits and gasmasks and immediately took to stripping and assembling a complete suite of infantry weapons. Under the pressure of the clock and the encouragement of their team they are on their way in minutes with another team hot on their heels.

Stands placed throughout the training area tested first aid and mass causality drills, weapons handling, target shooting from 100m, small party tasks and concluded with a tournament style urban fight using the Shocknife training aid.

This high passed and aggressive battle left one team on top. The Royal Winnipeg Rifles team comprised of Sergeant Joe Dyck, Master Corporal Sean Pocik, Corporal Du-Kuan Scott, Corporal Justyn Freeman, and Corporal John Kilmartin in an electrified final strike took the day and the trophy.

It was challenging physically as well as mentally said Corporal Justin Freeman. According to Freeman, the key to victory was knowing each persons strength on the team and trying to optimize their strengths in each event.

The T. Eaton Trophy, donated by the department store magnate, was awarded annually beginning in 1907. The military skills contest, primarily drill and marksmanship, continued through the decades with the exception of the First and Second World Wars until 1983. The competition was revived in 2012 with teams representing units across 38 CBG from Saskatchewan to Thunder Bay.

Royal Winnipeg Rifles Take the T. Eaton Cup


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On Friday, 23 January 2015, members of the Royal Regina Rifles rappelled from the rafters of the Brandt Center as part of the unveiling ceremony for the new state of the art NHL caliber digital score clock. The game was sold out with 6000 people in attendance and televised on Access TV.

The Regina Pats have a historical connection with the PPCLI, both being named after Princess Patricia of Connaught. Two PPCLI Soldiers were part of the rappel team along with 5 RRR soldiers who stole the show as the hometown unit.

Events such as these help strengthen the relationship between the Royal Regina Rifles and the City Of Regina.

Royal Regina Rifles Rappel Team

By Sgt Thomas Hughes, 38 CER

From the 14-21 October 2014, members of 38 Combat Engineer Regiment (CER) participated in 1 CERs EXERCISE VAUBANS REVENGE in Wainwright, Alberta. 38 CER formed a field section which comprised members of 31 Engineer Squadron (ES) from Winnipeg, as well as 46 ES from Saskatoon, which was force generated into 12 Field Squadron (FS) of 1 CER. They were also accompanied by a troop-sized element of the 864th US Engineer Battalion from Fort Lewis, Washington.

This exercise was conducted in order to generate troop and squadron level Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the newly stood-up 1 CER field squadron.

38 CER's field section was intended originally to act as an independent section within 4 Troop, but due to the reduced mobility of their vehicle (a Special Engineer Variant (SEV) of a Medium Support Vehicle System (MSVS) in comparison to the rest of 4 Troop's vehicles, Engineer Light Armoured Vehicles (ELAVs), the section members were split up amongst the troop. The SEV did get a chance to show its capabilities due to some ELAV break downs and the 1 CER members who climbed on board enjoyed the relative comfort!

During the exercise, 4 Troop conducted a large variety of engineer tasks, such as Medium Girder Bridge (MGB) design and construction, minefield laying, wire obstacle emplacement, engineer reconnaissance, as well as several tactical tasks such as camouflage, construction, and occupation of defensive positions.

The section members from 38 CER participated in all of these tasks and a few of the senior members had the opportunity to act in more advanced roles. These included, center party commander for the

Ex VAUBAN'S REVENGEMGB builds, a reconnaissance section member, and the Quarter Master driver.

The US Army Engineers had previous training in the tasks conducted, but bridging was completely new to them, therefore members from 1 CER and 38 CER helped instruct the US Engineers on the fundamentals.

The learning curve for the US Engineers was a steep one as the first build was conducted in the middle of the night! The US Army does use the MGB, but it is a completely separate occupation within their Engineer corps.

The tempo of the training was kept very high throughout the week with tasks being conducted all day and night with minimal breaks. All exercise participants experienced sleep deprivation. The US Army Engineers were impressed and somewhat overwhelmed by how long and hard Canadian Engineers worked in the field.

Overall, the training value for the members of 38 CER cannot be understated, with both junior and senior members participating in a great deal of different tasks in a context which many of them had never experienced before.

Working with the regular force greatly benefited the members of 38 CER as it provided them with a betterunderstanding of their jobs within a more operationally-focused environment. This also allowed them the opportunity to train on equipment not available to reservists on a regular basis, such as the ELAVs.

38 CER appreciates 1 CERs generosity and hospitality in inviting us to EXERCISE VAUBANS REVENGE, and we hope to be able to continually support and augment 1 CER in future training events and operations.

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Major Activities Calendar

Ex BISON WARRIORE x BISON WA RRIOR 15 (15 -2 3 A ug 15 ) : Task Force / Bat t le Group exercising the all - arms team in general purpose o f fensive opera t ions a t C ompany Level a t C FB SHILO in order to valida te collec t ive fundamental core soldier and leader sk il ls .

CT Weekend #1C T W eekend # 1 ( 2 - 4 Oc t 15 ) : In t en t is t o comple t e P W T 3 f or personal weapons C 7 and C 9 f or a l l C omba t A rms , P W T 2 f or a l l C S and C S S pers . L ead Uni t s t o ma x imi ze IB T S background ac t i v i t ies in suppor t o f C T W eekend # 2 ( i . e . map / compass re f resher, C BRN Re f resher ) and o t her IB T S t asks . L ead Uni t s are W I T G and N S ask R .

CT Weekend #2C T Weekend # 2 (23 -25 Oct 15 ) : Focussed t raining on IBT S (Land Navigat ion and Bat t lecraf t t raining) as well as Sect ion Level Corps Bat t le Task S tandards. Each Uni t to conduct their own t raining to meet t rade BT S .

CT Weekend #3C T Weekend # 3 (13 -15 Nov 15 ) : In ten t remains for C S and C S S Uni ts to conduc t Level 2 S ta t ic L ive F ire Range , C ombat A rms ( less ATG) to conduct Level 2 L ive F ire Ranges . Lead Uni ts are W I TG and R Regina Ri f . ATG to conduc t Gun Dr il ls / C orps BT S dur ing this t raining weekend .

Ex KOMITIK for ARC TIC RA M 16E x K O M I T E K ( 2 7 -2 9 No v 15 ) : A RC G per sonnel conduc t p r epara t or y t ra in ing a t Min t o A r mor y inc lud ing W in t er W ar f ar e Re f r esher t ra in ing and ind i v idua l , sec t ion , p la t oon and compan y s t or es pr epara t ion , t es t ing and inspec t ions . Tra in ing inc ludes l i v e f i r e f ami l ia r i z a t ion range f o r P r eda t or C on t r o l ( sho t gun , . 3 0 3 ) a t S t C har les Range .

June to November 2015


CIOR emblem

By Capt Jon Baker, G9 38 CBG

From 19-21 February 2015, I attended the annual mid-winter meeting of the Interallied Confederation of Reserve Officers (known by its French acronym CIOR) at NATO Headquarters in Brussels, Belgium. Founded in 1948, CIOR is a NATO-affiliated, non-political and non-profit umbrella organization of member nations national reserve officer associations. CIOR is composed primarily (but not exclusively) of NATO members and has two main roles: (1) provide advice on reserve issues and support to the NATO Alliance; and (2) foster the professional development of reserve officers.

CIORs agenda is carried out by its various committees, including the Young Reserve Officers (YRO) committee, on which I am presently serving a three year term as the Canadian coordinator. The YRO Committee is tasked with conducting a variety of professional development activities for junior reserve officers, most notably the annual YRO workshop that is attended by approximately 60 delegates from more than a dozen member nations. The workshop includes sessions on Law of Armed Conflict, cross-cultural communication, negotiation strategy, and a Model NATO simulation. Each year the CIOR Summer Congress (and with it, the YRO workshop) rotates among CIOR member nations. This summer the workshop is scheduled for 03-08 August in Sofia, Bulgaria, with a two day pre-training session for all Canadian participants to take place from 31 July-01 August at CFB Halifax.

I first participated in the workshop as a delegate in 2011 in Warsaw, Poland. Through interacting with fellow officers from across NATO and other partner nations, I learned how the reserves functions differently amongst our allies and witnessed how the unique cultures of other national militaries influence their approach to problem-solving.

As a result, I found the YRO workshop to be an excellent professional development experience that can foster improved inter-operability when deploying on multi-national operations.

The call for nominations for this summers YRO workshop has already been distributed to all Primary Reserve units across Canada. Eligible applicants must be: (1) an officer within the Primary Reserve, with priority going to those on Class A service; (2) no more than 30 years old; and (3) rank of Capt/Lt(N) and below. Nominations must be submitted through the chain of command no later than 01 June 2015, at which time five Canadian delegates will be selected based upon merit.

I have learned a lot from my participation in CIOR and highly encourage my peers to also avail themselves of the opportunity. The meeting I attended at NATO HQ focussed on coordinating arrangements for the YRO workshop this summer in Bulgaria, which promises to be one of the best yet. Good luck to all who apply!

Capt Baker (far left) and other international members of the CIOR Young Reserve Officer committee convened at NATO HQ in Brussels, Belgium for their annual mid-winter meeting (February 2015).

Capt Baker (fourth from the left) and other international members of the CIOR Young Reserve Officer committee talking with Danish General Knud Bartels, Chairman of the NATO Military Committee, at NATO HQ in Brussels, Belgium (January 2012).

OUTCAN Professional Development for Reserve Officers


By MCpl Corey Struss, 38 CER

From 13-24 April 2015, 38 Canadian Brigade G Battle School conducted a Psychological Operations (PSYOPS) Analyst Course at CFB Winnipeg. This marked the first time in five years that an influence activities (IA) course had been exported by the Peace Support Training Centre (PSTC) at CFB Kingston, and the first time ever that the PSYOPS Analyst Course had been exported by PSTC. Although only two weeks long, the course was densely packed with material and provided an intellectual challenge to all candidates.

The candidates came from all trades and possessed varying levels of IA experience. Some candidates arrived with PSYOPS Tactical Operator or Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) Operator qualifications, while others had prior knowledge of IA from deployments with the Provincial Reconstruction Team in Afghanistan. For most candidates, however, the PSYOPS Analyst Course was their first exposure to IA and the types of skills it entails.

The role of the analyst is integral to the greater PSYOPS objective of influencing the perceptions, attitudes, and behaviours of approved audiences in support of the military mission. PSYOPS analysts support the commanders objectives by recommending methods of persuading our friends to support us more, enticing the fence sitters to join our side, and persuading the enemy to surrender or deceiving them into doing something we want them to do. This support also comes in the form of Counter-PSYOPS by providing analysis of hostile PSYOPS messaging.

The primary skill that candidates learned during the course was to conduct an analysis of a specific target audience in order to create a message that will cause a desired behavioural or attitudinal change. To be successful, candidates had to be adept at examining intelligence for all relevant information and be able to approach an audience with empathy, cultural awareness, and an open mind. Further, candidates developed an appreciation for the importance of working in conjunction with other elements of the PSYOPS team in order to produce a persuasive message which would meet the commanders objectives.

Graduates of the PSYOPS Analyst Course will continue to refine their skills by attending regular training events with 38 CBGs IA Company and by filling IA roles on major exercises such as Ex MAPLE RESOLVE in spring 2016. In the longer term, the success of this cohort of PSYOPS analysts will significantly strengthen the IA capability of 38 CBG and contribute to the growth of this occupational speciality nationally within the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF).

For more information about IA training opportunities, contact your Unit IA representative.

Psychological Operations: A Growing Capability in 38 CBG



St.Cloud, Minn. On January 16, the 38 Canadian Brigade Group Headquarters hockey team loaded up their gear and headed to St. Cloud, Minnesota to play against the Minnesota National Guard hockey team as a part of Hockey Day Minnesota 15.

We were very honoured to be invited, said Captain Russ Donkersley. We had no idea how big the event actually was, and the venue for the event was quite the spectacle.

The event took place on an outdoor ice rink set up on the fully active Holman Airfield complete with UH-60 Blackhawk and CH-47 Chinook helicopters, C-130 Hercules, and of course plenty of bleachers for the fans.

Upon arriving, Consul General Jamshed Merchant, the Canadian Consulate for Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Dakota, and South Dakota greeted the team and wished them luck for the game.

The 38 CBG HQ team came out of the gates vigorously with some substantial chances; however, fell short in a 5-0 loss to the Guard.

The player of note, goalie Warrant Officer Kurt Macdonald, was considered by many to be the star of the game with easily 50+ saves throughout the game despite the loss.

Following the game, the teams attended a meet and greet to get to know each other in the massive tent adjacent to the outdoor rink.

The next day, the team was invited to watch the remainder of Hockey Day Minnesota high school hockey teams competing from across the state. United States Senator Amy Klobuchar was also in attendance to drop the puck for one of the games and to meet team leader Major Dennis Desrochers.

Senator Klobuchar was glad to see our allies from the north participating in the event.

Capping off the weekend, the team took in a Minnesota Wild game courtesy of the National Guard who even managed to provide box seats for the 38 CBG HQ team.

It was a great way to wrap up a great weekend, said Major Dennis Desrochers, 38 CBG HQ. The hospitality that we received from the [Minnesota National] Guard was very well received and very much appreciated.

38 CBG HQ Team attends Hockey Day Minnesota

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38 CBG HQ Team attends Hockey Day Minnesota


Christmas Across The Brigade

Reservists, vets help with ice candlesBy Mike Aiken, Kenora Online

Members of the 116th Independent Field Battery Kenora Army Reserve soldiers and Canadian Army Veterans Motorcycle Club assisted with collection and distribution of ice candles on Saturday, Dec. 20th , as they transported and delivered candles bought by people in Kenora for placement on the graves of loved ones at the Lake of the Woods Cemetery, in preparation for the Ice Candle Lighting ceremony on Christmas Eve.

2Lt Paul Weedon (right) from the 116th Independent Field Battery and Ron Neufeld (left) from the CAV unload ice candles from an army vehicle that will be placed at the graves of Great War veterans at the Lake of the Woods Cemetery.

By Leith Dunick, tbnewswatch.com

Thunder Bay A year ago Andi Dowdell was too shy to talk to Santa Claus.

Twelve months later the seven-year-old has found her confidence and spent several minutes on Wednesday morning speaking to Jolly Old Saint Nick from her Edgewater Park Public School classroom.

It was really cool, Andi said.

I love talking to Santa now because it was fun and you get to tell him what you really want for Christmas, if he doesnt know.

Andi said she asked for art supplies, including pencil crayons, crayons, pencils and an easel.

Classmate Sasha Lowry wasnt shy at all about talking to Santa.

I asked him if he knew what I wanted for Christmas and he didnt know, so I told him. I said Merry Christmas almost a hundred times, the seven-year-old said.

I asked him for a laptop.

Students at 19 schools in Thunder Bay will each get a chance to say hello to Santa Claus, thanks to the Canadian military, who used a special two-way radio to connect with the North Pole, something the 3 Squadron of the 38th Signal Regiment have been doing for more than 20 years.

The kids send emails and letters to Santa. We provide the service of letting the kids talk to Santa using military equipment thats able to reach the North Pole, Cpl. Kyle Swaggert said.

Its a busy time of year for Santa and his elves, but he always takes time out of his holiday preparations to speak to children in Thunder Bay.

Thats pretty special, said Swaggert, proud to be on a first-name basis with the jolliest elf of them all.

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OP Radio Santa: Students get chance to speak to Santa


By MCpl Houston, 38 CBG PANCM

Winnipeg, Man. On December 13, soldiers from the Fort Garry Horse and 31 Engineer Squadron conducted Ex PARCEL PUSH for the 30th consecutive year delivering Christmas hampers for the Christmas Cheer Board to disadvantaged families in Winnipegs North End.

We like to give back to the community, said Lieutenant Eric Watters of the Fort Garry Horse. We are soldiers, but we are also from the community too. A lot of us live in the North End, so it always good to give back when you can and not be a stranger to the community.

A lot of the time people see the military as being a scary organization, but we are here to protect Canadians, so we like to help them out whenever possible, whether it is flood-fighting or hamper delivery.

This year, with the help of 31 Engineer Squadron (31 ES), however, soldiers on the exercise were able to nearly triple the amount of hampers that they were able to deliver.

The MSVS cargo truck provided by 31 ES was able to pick up a massive amount of hampers from the Christmas Cheer Board. This allowed them to create a distribution point at the Mcgregor Armoury rather than the soldiers going all the way back to the Cheer Board to replenish.

In total, over 300 packages were delivered throughout the day.

Its a pleasure receiving the parcel, said resident Shonna Prysiazniuk. I appreciate everything (the Canadian Forces) do for us, (including) keeping us safe.

Its the next best thing to being the real Santa Claus, said Corporal Arthur Dalman after delivering hampers throughout the day.

Exercise PARCEL PUSH first began in 1984 in recognition of the historical tie between the military the Christmas Cheer Board. The Christmas Cheer Board was started in 1919 by a number of Winnipeg Churches. The original intent was to provide Christmas hampers and toys for the widows and orphans of the soldiers lost during World War One.

Each year, Soldiers of the Fort Garry Horse provide assistance organizing the warehouse with other volunteers (including civilian and Fort Garry Horse Cadets) and delivering hampers using military vehicles.

Christmas Delivered by Reservists


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38 Canadian Brigade Group 2015

The Brigade - WS15

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Transcript of The Brigade - WS15