No Slowdown in Petawawa

In Booming Petawawa, No Sign of a Postwar Slowdown

 By Don Butler, Postmedia NewsFebruary 27, 2012

 Ottawa Citizen reporter, Tony Lofaro (L) talks with Jihan Falah (R), mother of Marc Diab, in front of The Madameek Restaurant, on July 23, 2010, in Petawawa, Ont. As a way of dealing with their grief and honouring their son, Marc Diab, who was killed in March 2009 by an IED, the Diab's opened the restaurant in Petawawa. Marc Diab's photo is on the rear window of his jeep.

Photograph by: Jana Chytilova, Ottawa Citizen

PETAWAWA, Ont. — The daily morning traffic jams attest to it. So do the rising subdivisions, the new schools, the plans for a shopping mall.

With troops home from Canada's combat mission in Afghanistan and a new helicopter squadron en route, CFB Petawawa is fuelling an economic boom in this Eastern Ontario community.

There's no post-mission slump here. Instead, Petawawa Mayor Bob Sweet says the town's economy sagged at times during the mission, because so many troops were overseas. There were fewer people to buy groceries, new cars and other goods.

"I always say that Petawawa is kind of recession-proof, because you don't lay soldiers off when there's a downturn in the economy," says Sweet. "But when you send abroad 2,000 individuals, it's virtually the same thing."

But now, as Canada's war in Afghanistan is morphing into smaller training mission, the communities around the country's "super-bases" — like Petawawa, Edmonton and Gagetown, N.B. — are undergoing a major shift.

And with nearly 5,000 soldiers and 900 civilians on the payroll, CFB Petawawa is by far the upper Ottawa Valley's largest employer, pumping between $400 million and $500 million a year into the regional economy.

About 60 per cent of the soldiers live off base in Petawawa, Pembroke and other Ottawa Valley communities. As they returned from major deployments in 2006, 2008 and 2010, flush with money earned in combat, many decided to buy a home, says Judy DeGeer, owner of RE/MAX Pembroke Realty.

"The common comment I got was, 'I worked extremely hard and put my life on the line for this money. I need to make a wise investment with that,'" DeGeer says. The result has been a frenzy of homebuilding in Petawawa.

"Over the last three or four years, I suppose we've built a small community," Sweet says. About 800 new homes have gone up, with another 1,200 or so planned.

With nearly 16,000 residents, Petawawa is already the largest community between Ottawa and North Bay. The population is expected to spike to about 19,000 by 2020, Sweet says. One new school is almost built and funding is in place for another.

The federal government's decision to base Canada's new fleet of 15 Chinook helicopters at CFB Petawawa is also goosing the town's growth. The first 100 soldiers will arrive in May and the new helicopter squadron will become fully operational next year. When fully staffed, it will bring 400 to 500 soldiers plus their families to Petawawa.

Construction began about a year ago on a massive $135-million hangar, nearly a kilometre in length. "It's a beast of a construction," says Lt.-Col. Chris Moyle, the base commander. The military expects to spend $835 million on new buildings and infrastructure related to the new helicopter squadron by 2020.

Until now, commercial development hasn't kept pace. The town lacks a proper downtown — Petawawa Boulevard, the main drag, is a nondescript array of strip malls, convenience stores and fast-food outlets — and there's a dearth of stores and services. Most residents make the 20-minute drive to Pembroke for serious shopping.

That's starting to change. Several new businesses have opened in recent years — many run by retired military personnel — and a 350,000-square-foot shopping centre is planned for 2013.

That's good for Petawawa, but it could hurt established businesses in Pembroke, says Gary Melnyk, president of the Upper Ottawa Valley Chamber of Commerce. "You'll have fewer people from Petawawa coming to Pembroke to do their shopping."

One Petawawa business that's thriving is the Madameek, a restaurant that serves authentic Lebanese food. Trooper Marc Diab's relatives opened it in 2010, a year after Diab was killed by a roadside bomb north of Kandahar.

The place is a tribute to the 22-year-old Petawawa soldier, who dreamed of opening a shawarma restaurant in the town. It's such a roaring success that the owners are on the verge of opening a second location in Pembroke.

"This kind of food, they don't have it here. And they like it." says one of the owners, Ghassen Ghanem, Diab's brother-in-law.

A steady stream of customers, many in uniform, stop by to pick up lunch. "It's a little bit slow," Ghanem observes. "Usually they're lined up."

He credits Diab for the business's success. "He's watching us, I'm 100 per cent sure, from the sky, and he blessed everything. That's why everything is OK."

With the rapid growth comes challenges. Some weekday mornings, the town's main street, Petawawa Boulevard, is backed up for two or three kilometres as soldiers and civilian employees head to work on the base. "It's hard to imagine," marvels Sweet. "We've got gridlock here in the Upper Ottawa Valley."

Fixing that won't be cheap. A two-lane bridge over the Petawawa River would have to be replaced to widen to road into the base to four lanes. The town is doing a feasibility study.

It's also spending millions to expand its sewer and water system, which CFB Petawawa relies on to meet its needs. But the base offers plenty in return, including fabulous facilities open to townsfolk at minimal cost.

Local residents can use the base's 18-hole golf course, sail at its yacht club, watch first-run movies at its theatre and work out at its world-class fitness centre, which features a track, two sheets of ice and indoor rock climbing walls.

The facilities were built to serve the needs of the soldiers and their families, says Moyle, who calls the base "a gem within a gem. If we can extend that capacity to the small communities that are around us, I think that just makes us better community partners."

The town has a "wonderful relationship" with the base, Sweet says. "We meet on a regular basis with the base team. It's a healthy relationship and one that's worked quite well."

That wasn't always the case. Soldiers used to rotate out every three years, and more lived on the base. "There was very much a division between the base and the military and ourselves," says Sweet.

Posting out is less frequent now. Some soldiers stay in Petawawa for a decade or more. "We get to know our neighbours an awful lot better," says Sweet. "You go to dances with them or play golf with them."

The base's soldiers are so well integrated that when they were deployed to Afghanistan, it created something of a crisis for sports and other volunteer groups, which rely heavily on them as coaches and organizers. "They're tremendous volunteers and they very much want to be part of our community," Sweet says.

But every silver lining has a dark cloud. Amanda Cheverie, whose husband is ex-military, opened her store, Full Spectrum Gear, in 2007, just before a deployment to Afghanistan.

Soldiers lined up for the store's outdoor tactical equipment. But over the last year, business has fallen off. Post-mission, soldiers don't need the kind of gear Cheverie sells. "I would say that 50 per cent of what I sell has come to a screeching halt or has slowed down noticeably."

Cheverie is adjusting. There are plans to sell firearms and ammunition. "Realistically," she says, "they never go out of style. I knew they wouldn't be in Afghanistan forever, and you have to evolve with the times."

Ottawa Citizen
dbutler@ottawacitizen.com

CFB Petawawa at a glance
Location: Petawawa, Ont., 160 kilometres northwest of Ottawa
History: Founded in 1905 as Camp Petawawa, a summer training ground for the Canadian militia. During the Second World War, as many as 20,000 soldiers were stationed there for training. Renamed CFB Petawawa in 1968 following armed forces unification.
Size: More than 600 buildings, 1,600 housing units, 340 square kilometres of training area and a workforce of 6,000.
Resident military personnel: Fluctuates between 4,000 and 5,000
Civilian employees: 900
Components: 2 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group, which includes the Royal Canadian Dragoons, Two battalions of the Royal Canadian Regiment and the second regiment of the Royal Canadian Horse Artillery, among others. Also home to 2 Area Support Group, the Canadian Special Operations Regiment, medical units, military police and other support units.
Deployments to Afghanistan: Major deployments in 2006, 2008 and 2010, plus several smaller deployments.
Casualties: 40 soldiers from units based at CFB Petawawa have died in Afghanistan.

In booming Petawawa, no sign of a postwar slowdown

Red Friday Rally in Petawawa!

Red Friday Rally 2011

(Red) Friday, May 6 · 11:00am - 2:00pm

EVENT BEGINS: 11:00 a.m.
MAIN PROGRAM (stage): 12:00-2:00 p.m.

Location: Petawawa Legion Parking lot
3583 Petawawa Blvd
Petawawa, ON
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Hosted by: The Red Friday Ladies
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On May 6th 2011 Karen and Lisa will host another rally @ the Petawawa Legion to celebrate FIVE YEARS of supporting our troops & wearing red!!

Once again they are proud to be hosting the finish line for
the Commissionaires Ottawa RUN FOR MILITARY FAMILIES

http://runformilitaryfamilies.ca/en/
Come out, wear your red and celebrate our troops and their families !!

Help cheer on our troops ...
and the “RUN FOR MILITARY FAMILIES” runners too!
Come out and meet the people of Petawawa, the troops, their families and so many more.

Witness the pride and support of our military community.
Show Canada your support and pride.

** SPECIAL GUESTS and ENTERTAINMENT **

For more information, contact:

Lisa.troopsupport@gmail.com or Karen.troopsupport@gmail.com

**** The Red Friday Ladies encourage you to bring your folding chairs ... pack a lunch and snacks ... there will be lots to see and do so come out early ****

Petawawa Red Friday Rally Supports the Troops

Observer photo by Stephen Uhler
General Walter Natynczyk, Chief of Defense Staff, left, presents Debbie and Denis Moncion, owners of Moncion Grocers Petawawa Market, a certificate recognizing 25 years of service to the community during the Red Friday Rally held yesterday. Petawawa Market has been a strong supporter of the military and Red Fridays, helping to raise money for the Petawawa Military Family Resource Centre through the sale of the "support the troops" signs, getting red T-shirts for their entire staff to show their support, and in other ways.

As soldiers stationed at CFB Petawawa begin their latest deployment to Afghanistan, organizers of Red Fridays felt it was time for a stronger show of support for Canada's military family.
On Friday, about 500 people gathered at the parking lot of Moncion Grocers Petawawa Market over the lunch hour to take part in a Red Friday Rally, a way to salute the troops and their families.

After listening to a slate of speakers including General Walter Natynczyk, Chief of Defense Staff, a mass of red and yellow balloons were cut loose. Each carried a white card, upon which were written messages of well wishes and addressed to soldiers now serving overseas.

Lisa Miller, who with Karen Boire started Red Fridays in Petawawa two and a half years and 130 Fridays ago, said the idea has gotten stronger since the first day when people were encouraged to wear red back in March 2006.
"Red Friday is about showing support," she said, both to the soldiers and their families back home. Events like Friday's rally are important in that they show how much the public backs the efforts of the troops, as they get ready to deploy to Afghanistan for another tour of duty.
"We, as a community, will continue to hold them in our hearts, our thoughts and our prayers," Ms. Miller said.

She and Ms. Boire thanked Denis and Debbie Moncion of Moncion Grocers Petawawa Market for backing the movement in its early days to now, doing everything from selling support the troops signs to providing their staff with some of the first red T-shirts with the yellow ribbon insignia.
Proceeds from the sales are directed to the Petawawa Military Family Resource Centre, helping it support military families.
The Moncions were honoured several times throughout the rally, including by Gen. Natynczyk, who presented them with a plaque commemorating their store's 25 years of service to the community.

It was unfortunate that the many waiting soldiers in attendance needed to return to work before Gen. Natynczyk's arrival.

Gen. Natynczyk said he always loves to return to Petawawa, which he considers his home away from home.
"You are the finest military community I know," he said.
This Red Friday is bittersweet for the CDS. He attended the funeral of a member of 3 RCR who passed away from cancer in the same week three more soldiers were killed in Afghanistan.
"We have to reflect on our losses and the three families in mourning," Gen. Natynczyk said, knowing the community will wrap itself around these families to support them in their time of need, as they do elsewhere in the military.
This support of them and their families helps, he said, and gives the soldiers the strength to carry on even after being "hit hard in the gut" by losses.
"I'm proud of them and I'm proud of being your Chief of Defence Staff."
MP Cheryl Gallant thanked the efforts of Ms. Miller and Ms. Boire for starting and continuing the Red Friday campaign.
"You blanketed a red carpet from one end of Canada to the next," she said, and helped remind the country there is no higher calling than those who serve our nation in uniform.
The MP said as the ongoing mission in Afghanistan continues and the media coverage increases, it is important to remember why Canada is in there in the first place - to fight those who would threaten our security elsewhere.
"When the going gets really tough, we have to hunker down and remember that," she said.
Theresa Sabourin, executive director of the PMFRC, said they are gathered to show support for the military no matter where they are serving. She said while the focus is on Afghanistan, they shouldn't forget the soldiers serving all over the world.
"Canadian Forces members defend our sovereignty and defend the peace," she said. "They are heroes to most and deeply committed to their jobs."
Ms. Sabourin said it is important to remember their strength is in their families, who themselves have a tremendous commitment to back the soldiers. She said for the rest of the community, it is vital to remind military families they stand with them too.
"You are not alone," she said. "You have a whole community behind you."
MPP John Yakabuski said events such as this rally, along with regularly observing Red Fridays, serve to show the military family the entire Ottawa Valley supports and stands behind them.

"We need to make sure on a regular basis we thank them," he said. "In fact, we can't thank them enough."
Lt.-Col. Bill Moore, commander of CFB Petawawa, said the way the community has rallied around base personnel during good times and bad has brought them all much closer together. He said military life has always been tough on those who serve and their families and stressed one cannot underestimate the positive impact of events such as Red Fridays.
"It is crucial to remember the community support you give does make a difference," Lt. Col. Moore said.

Thank you Lisa and Karen for all the work you do for our troops. Thanks for the pics.

Thank you to the Moncion Family for being there and supporting our troops through all the deployments.

Red Friday Rally in Petawawa

On Friday September 5th, 2008
Moncion Grocers Petawawa Market will
“Salute Our Troops and Their Families”

We will be hosting a Red Friday Rally in our parking lot
At 11:30 am

Joining us for this special event will be:
-Star 96.7 Fm radio host, James Patrick, event Emcee
-Star 96.7 Fm’s Annette Reynolds for the singing of our Canadian National Anthem
-Lisa Miller, one of Petawawa’s own Red Friday Ladies
-Theresa Sabourin, Executive Director, Petawawa Military family resource Center
-Ed chow, deputy mayor town of petawawa
-LCol Bill Moore, Base Commander CFB Petawawa
-Chief of the Defense Staff, General Walter Natynczyk

This event is open to the public so we encourage you put on something red, come on down and show your support for the men and women of the Canadian Armed Forces as well as their families, as we celebrate...

“Red Friday: Moncion Grocers Salutes our troops and their families”

There will be a free bbq between 1130am & 1pm
And complimentary cake in the store after the rally

Thanks Lisa for the info .. and to both you and Karen for all you do for our Troops! HUA!! ~ Military Mom

Canadian Troops Bid Their Farewell

Unfortunately, I didn't receive word/invite of the ceremony - which makes me sad- especially being a mother of a deploying soldier. I would have been there. And now, I understand that I'm not the only mother without an invite. Why? I wonder. Did they forget us? O.K.. we won't dwell on this.. it's in the past... however.. I wish Godspeed and safe deployment to all our soldiers of Roto 6 - I send each and everyone of you a hug.
My support is here for the families and friends of our soldiers deploying. There may be times when you will laugh, cry, worry.. You may not be with them, but your soldier will know you are always there in their hearts and keep them in yours.

Petawawa Makes Third Major Deployment

Soldiers Prepare to Head Out


Maj. Jason Guiney kisses his daughter Miranda at a ceremony Friday at CFB Petawawa, near Ottawa, for 2,500 soldiers who will soon leave for Afghanistan.

The soldiers heading into the next phase of Canada's continuing combat mission in Afghanistan were given a formal send-off by family, friends and dignitaries Friday.
Over 2,500 personnel and their families gathered at Dundonald Hall to receive a pep talk from senior officers and Ontario's Lt.-Gov. David Onley, who told them that Canadians of all political stripes support them as they journey to the dangerous Kandahar theatre of operations.
In a week when NATO has lost 16 soldiers, including three Canadian combat engineers in a roadside bombing on Wednesday, Lt.-Gov. Onley said that Canada and her allies cannot stand by and leave the Afghan people in the face of the Taliban, "a vicious enemy who no level of violence is too extreme."
"The people of Afghanistan have been battered by war and tyranny. They've been oppressed and terrorized," Lt.-Gov. Onley told the soldiers, sailors and airmen, all clad is desert fatigues. "Your mission is complex, demanding and very dangerous. But you are the heirs of a great military tradition."
This will be Petawawa's third major deployment to Afghanistan since 2003. Personnel from Joint Task Force Rotation 6 beginning leaving the base next week for what could be a seven to eight month mission. They will be part of four units: 3rd Battalion, Royal Canadian Regiment (3 RCR) Battle Group, Kandahar Provincial Reconstruction Team, National Support Element and the Operational Mentor and Liaison Teams, lead mainly by officers and senior non-commissioned officers from 1 RCR. The Canadian task force comes under command of NATO's International Security Assistance Force (ISAF).
Noting that the troops have been training hard over the past year for the difficult mission, Col. Dean Milner, commander of 2 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group, said every one of them will make a difference no matter what their job over there will be.
"You'll do an outstanding job to help that poor country get back on its feet," said Col. Milner.
Advance teams have already flown out of CFB Trenton heading for southwest Asia. Col. Milner said the main body of troops are scheduled to leave next week. They will be replacing the 2nd Battalion, Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry, based out of Shilo, Manitoba. The entire contingent should be in Kandahar by late September or early October.
For 3 RCR, this will be the unit's first mission into Afghanistan since they deployed to Kabul in 2003. During that six-month assignment, the battalion provided security and assisted reconstruction efforts throughout the capital city. The bulk of their operations was conducting foot and vehicle patrols, meeting with local officials and overseeing reconstruction projects, including the construction of schools, bridges and water infrastructure.
This time around, the battalion will be engaged in a counter-insurgency with rifle companies and supporting sub-units stationed at Forward Operating Bases or FOBs throughout the Kandahar province, including the volatile Panjwayi and Zhari districts to the west of Kandahar City. For Maj. Rob McBride, commanding November Company, it's been a long time coming but his troops are anxious to get underway.
"It'll be the challenge and experience of a lifetime," said Maj. McBride, who'll be going on his fourth overseas deployment, but his first to Afghanistan.

Other soldiers, like Private Devin Quinlan, a rifleman with Mike Company, understand they are going into a combat situation and know they'll have tough days ahead.
"It's a two-way range," remarked Private Quinlan, 24. "We're going to have to dig down deep, but you just lean on your buddies."
During a vigorous training cycle that focus on specific skill sets needed in Afghanistan, the troops have learned how to conduct convoys, react to an attack from an Improvised Explosive Device or IED, and advanced first aid. They've also become familiar with Afghanistan's complex history and culture. Private Quinlan said he is aware of the strategic importance of their mission.
"You want to help these people out, but especially the kids," he added. "They are born into a country that is unstable and they should live without violence. That's what drives me.
For the families of deployed soldiers, it will mean an even longer wait. Kim Ballah, who is also a military medic, acknowledged there will be a period of adjustment once her husband, Paul, departs. However, she said her 11-month-old son, Henri, will keep her busy enough.
"There's always concerns and you're worried," said Ms. Ballah, who also has a sister deploying to Kandahar. "But day-to-day life will be hectic as it is." - Chatham Daily News

RED FRIDAY - A Night for Military Familes

(click on flyer to enlarge)

Hosted by: "The Red Friday Ladies"

Thanks Lisa for the info. A special thanks to Karen and Lisa and all families and friends for supporting our troops!! HUA!

Support Our Troops Music Festival

June 3, 2007

11 a.m. till 11:00 p.m.

Support Our Troops

Music Festival

at

Ptawawa Civic Center Grounds

16 Civic Centre Road (off Petawawa Blvd)

click here for map

Admission is free

Featuring 10 musical acts from Ottawa & The Valley

including The Mick Armitage Band,

Doug and Pam Champagne ("We Wear Red")

with special guests Louis Schryer and The Schryer Dancers

It is being put on by The Petawawa Legion & The Town of Petawawa.

Don Cherry is scheduled to speak.

FREE ADMISSION

92.3 Jack FM

Red Friday Rally in Petawawa

WOW! WE SUPPORT OUR TROOPS!

The turn out of Support was amazing.


Pictured here: Lisa Miller, Karen Boire, Prime Minister Stephan Harper, Defence Minister Gordon O'Connor

Prime Minister Stephen Harper speaks at the Red Rally in Petawawa.

Prime Minister Stephen Harper today addressed a Red Friday rally in support of Canadian troops in Petawawa, Ontario. The Prime Minister began his remarks by lauding those in attendance for standing by the Canadian Forces and its mission in Afghanistan.
“I’d like to thank you for the incredible amount of strength and support you have displayed over the last 12 months while hundreds of members from CFB Petawawa were deployed in Afghanistan,” said Prime Minister Harper.
The Prime Minister spoke of their heroic acts in Afghanistan, noting that nine soldiers from the base were recently honoured for their service. The Prime Minister went on to speak of the importance of ensuring Canadians from coast-to-coast are made aware of their stories of professionalism, bravery, and selflessness.
“Unfortunately, these soldiers didn’t get the attention they deserved, because their stories were eclipsed by arguments in the House of Commons over the allegations of Taliban prisoners. I sincerely hope their stories get told when the Governor General formally awards their decorations,” said Prime Minister Harper.
This is the second year that Red Friday rallies have been held across the country. The event grew out of the “Wear Red Friday” campaign, which was started by family members of soldiers from CFB Petawawa in 2006.

Canada's top soldier reminded the audience that on the other end of the world, their fellow soldiers were braving 50-degree heat, carrying 45-kilogram backpacks, and fighting elusive enemies while simultaneously battling endless clouds of desert dust and dirt.
But Gen. Rick Hillier told them that the weekly Red Friday rallies make a difference.
"You sometimes can be forgiven for feeling alone (in Afghanistan)," he said.
"But when they hear about what you are doing, when they see video and pictures of it - and they will - you can actually watch their eyes grow big."
"They understand that at the end of that 12,000-kilometre trail, they're supported by you from back home, and they're remembered."

Show our support for our troops... Wear Red on Fridays!

The Engineer's flag proudly waves in the crowd. CHIMO!

We support our troops.

Our Wear Red on Friday Ladies: Lisa Miller and Karen Boire pictured in the foreground.

Prime Minister Harper's Speech:
PRIME MINISTER STEPHEN HARPER PAYS TRIBUTE TO TROOPS AT RED FRIDAY RALLY
May 11, 2007PETAWAWA


Thank you, Gordon O'Connor, for your generous introduction - and for providing the kind of leadership that only a real military man can provide.Thank you, ladies and gentlemen, for your warm, enthusiastic welcome.It's great to be here on Red Friday. After all, you created this weekly national celebration of our troops.Give yourselves here at Petawawa a big, well-deserved round of applause.You deserve the applause - and not just for inventing Red Friday.But because of the incredible strength and support you have displayed over the last 12 months while hundreds of troops from CFB Petawawa have been deployed in Afghanistan.I know it hasn't been easy.This community has had more losses to mourn than any other base in Canada.But you have stood firm in support of our troops.Because you're so proud of them.And so you should be.Last month, nine soldiers from Petawawa were honoured for their work in Afghanistan.Two were awarded the Star of Military Valour, five the Medal of Military Valour, and two more were Mentioned in Dispatches.But, sadly, the attention has not been on them.Unfortunately, these soldiers did not get the attention they deserved.Because their stories were eclipsed by arguments in the House of Commons over media reports based on information from Taliban prisoners I sincerely hope their stories get told when the Governor General formally awards their decorations.But in the meantime, let's give a well-deserved hand to those medal recipients who are here today.
Private Jess Larochelle
Private Michael O'Rourke
Corporal Jason Funnell
Corporal Joseph Ruffolo
Master-Corporal Sean Niefer
Master-Corporal Richard Harris
Friends, there are too many unsung heroes in Afghanistan.Not just Canadians, but all the NATO soldiers who are there, with the United Nations, helping the Afghan people reclaim and rebuild their war-ravaged country.You know the story; the link between 9-11 and Afghanistan, the oppression Afghans endured under the Taliban, and the risk of terrorism coming here if we don't confront it there.You also know about the progress we made - progress that could not be possible unless our men and women in uniform put themselves on the line:
The return of democratic elections,
The revival of human rights and freedoms for women,
The reconstruction of schools, health care facilities and the basic infrastructure of a functional economy.You also know that our work has not ended.We can't just put down our weapons and hope for peace.We can't set arbitrary deadlines and wish for the best.And we can't let anyone get away with tarnishing the reputation of the Canadian Forces as the most professional, disciplined and effective soldiers in the world. We can't.And we won't. Because we know where we stand.We know what we stand for.And we know who we stand with.The proud and courageous military men and women of the True North Strong and Free.God bless the work they do.God bless all of you, their families and friends.
And God bless Canada.

From Petawawa Post:

"Wearing red on Friday is like giving our troops a huge round of applause"

by Lisa Brazeau
Like an undulating ocean of red and CADPAT green, a literal sea of supporters flowed down Petawawa Boulevard waving Canadian flags, banners and handmade signs. In an impressive show of appreciation for the men and women of the Canadian
Forces and their families, thousands turned out for homegrown Red Friday Rally and March of Military Appreciation, filling the parking lot at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 517 with the signature colour. " Wearing red on Friday is like giving our troops a huge round of applause. When we all wear red together, it adds volume to our voices in colour. It speaks of our support, our pride and our appreciation for our Canadian Forces members and their families." said Lisa Miller, who with Karen Boire
brought Canada-wide attention to the grassroots Red Fridays Campaign, a movement encouraging people to wear red on Fridays as a show of support for Canadian Forces."When we gather together, like today, boy oh boy, is that voice loud," she said. Miller and Boire, the “Red Friday Ladies”, worked closely with 580 CFRA last year to bring a massive Ottawa Red Friday rally to Parliament Hill, and wanted to bring the initiative to the home front where so many have seen their loved ones deploy to Afghanistan, and so many soldiers have paid the ultimate sacrifice.
"No matter how many people show up, whether it be 15 or 15,000, it makes the rally, and the message we're sending, a success," noted Boire.
Like ‘Red Fridays’, the local rally also garnered national attention; among the dignitaries was Prime Minister Stephen Harper, Minister of National Defence Gordon O'Connor, and Chief of the Defence Staff Gen Rick Hillier. Local dignitaries Renfrew- Nipissing- Pembroke MP and MPP Cheryl Gallant and John Yakabuski, Town of Petawawa Mayor Bob Sweet, 2 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group Commander Col Denis Thompson and CFB/ASU Petawawa Commander LCol Dave
Rundle were also in attendance. "These rallies and all the other demonstrations of support are immensely important to those of us in uniform and I don't need to tell this crowd about sacrifice, service or duty. You live it every day," said Col Thompson, who through personal experience, attested to the positive impact local support has had on morale overseas. "It's significant, it does resonate here, and frankly it gives our efforts real meaning."

The idea of red Fridays began as an e-mail out of the United States, which Miller and Boire reworded for a Canadian audience and began distributing it to friends and family. As the effort grew, the pair began promoting the initiative beyond the borders of Ottawa and the Ottawa Valley. To date successful rallies have been held in numerous coummunities including Barrie, Toronto, Kingston, and now, in Petawawa.
The Prime Minister applauded the Petawawa community not just for fanning the flames of the Red Friday movement, "but because of the incredible strength and support this community has displayed over the past 12 months while hundreds of troops from CFB Petawawa have been deployed in Afghanistan," he said. "I know that it hasn't been easy. This community has had more losses to mourn than any other base in this country. But you have stood firm in support of our troops because you're so proud of them and you should be." He spoke of the numerous unsung heroes in Afghanistan, not just Canadians but everyone who has had a part in helping
the Afghan people reclaim and rebuild their war ravaged country. He also noted that nine soldiers from the base were recently honoured for their service overseas. " You know about the progress we've made," he said, "progress that would not be possible
unless our men and women put themselves on the line." It’s progress made possible,
too, by the support Canadians have for their military and the mission in Afghanistan, said Minister O'Connor. "I've been to Afghanistan three times, and I can tell you how important it is for our troops over there to know that this mission has the support of Canadians, a mission that is critical to the future of Afghanistan," he said. "Today, through this rally, we can remind our troops that we are behind them 100 per cent."
The rally, he added, is also an opportunity to acknowledge the sacrifices made by military families, and the "vital support they provide to our men and women in uniform, sustaining them while they carry out their duties. Thank them for all they do to keep the Canadian Forces strong."
In appreciation of the efforts of the "Red Friday Ladies", Petawawa Mayor Bob Sweet presented Miller and Boire with Town of Petawawa Medals, which conveys the gratitude and appreciation of the mayor and council of Petawawa.

Red Friday Rally

Petawawa's Red Friday Rally

March of Military Appreciation
May 11th 2007
Time: 9:30am – 11:00am
Location: Petawawa Legion Parking lot (located at 3583 Petawawa Blvd)

The Rally itself will be short in time. (approx. 30 minutes total)

Sequence of events:
9:00am -9:25am Community assembles at Petawawa Legion

9:30am
-Rally begins
-National Anthem
-Prayers for our Troops
-Speeches

1010am: The roads will be closed and participants will be asked to form rows of the parade. (Closure of Petawawa Blvd & Victoria Street)
Two Parade marshals will be there to help people form up and stay organized.

~Community will assemble on Petawawa Blvd under the direction of the parade Marshals

1015am: Parade departs from Petawawa Legion -proceeding south on Petawawa turning east on Victoria St

1040am parade arrives at Petawawa Town Hall

The Parade route will be as follows:
South on Petawawa Blvd, east on Victoria Street and ending behind the Petawawa Town Office.

Roads reopen

1040am -1100am Parade assembles on hill at Petawawa town hall for Red Friday Rally picture

* Two Parade marshals will be there to help assemble the community parade
The OPP will be on hand to participate and to ensure safety during the parade

This is an article posted by the Daily Observer in Upper Ottawa District with further information:

Petawawa to Host Rally for Red Friday on May 11

By: STEPHEN UHLER The Daily Observer

The community of Petawawa is being encouraged to take part in a massive Red Friday rally, scheduled for Friday, May 11, 2007. The event is being held as another way for people to show their support for Canada's soldiers and their families while this nation is engaged in Afghanistan. Lisa Miller, who along with Karen Boire helped launch the Red Friday campaign, where the public wears red as a show of support, said following a successful rally held on Parliament Hill last year, she has been approached by friends and members of the public wondering why one wasn't being held here.

Now, following a lot of hard work, there is going to be one. "It was time for it to come here," she said. "A lot of people don't realize we still have troops over in Afghanistan, and it is important to keep remembering their service. "This rally is about that, acknowledging the ones who came home and the ones who are there now serving," Ms. Miller said. "Every now and again, we have to do something to remind people of the significance of Red Friday, and to always remember the soldiers and their families." Rally participants will start gathering at the Petawawa Royal Canadian Legion's parking lot at 9 a.m. At 9:30 a.m. sharp, the rally will officially begin with the playing of the national anthem and a prayer for the troops. Guest speakers Petawawa mayor Bob Sweet, MP Cheryl Gallant, MPP John Yakabuski and Red Friday rally organizers Lisa Miller and Karen Boire will then address the crowd. At 10:10 a.m., Petawawa Boulevard and Victoria Street will be closed off to traffic, and five minutes later all those who assembled will march from the Legion to Petawawa town hall. Once there, the crowd will assemble on the hill behind town hall for a Red Friday rally photograph
Due to road closures, our timings must be strict.

Wear Red Event! June 3rd!

Support Our Troops- We Wear Red Event

-

Petawawa will be hosting a Wear Red Event

scheduled for Sunday, June 3rd.

Red t-shirts, yellow ribbons, car magnets are very prevelant. From cashiers to visitors, many people can be spotted wearing red in Petawawa each Friday... all as a visible show of support for Canadian Forces Personnel and their families.Royal Canadian Legion Branch 517 Petawawa Entertainment Chair Pat Oland would now like to see people literally come together to celebrate those who serve, and promote an organization whose mission it is "to serve veterans and their dependents,to promote remembrance, and to act in the service of Canada and its communities."

On June 3 from 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.,

ten bands-- Freddy Vette & the Flames, The Legacy, Ghost Town Cryers, the Threshers, Mick Armitage Band, Common Ground, De'Mos, Quicksand, Memphis Mafia, and Split Decision

--will take the stage on the arena floor at the Petawawa Civic Centre for a "Support Our Troops - We Wear Red" event, a family-oriented day of music, entertainment, and activities including a pie eating contest, dunk tank, and games for the kids. "It's an event where the community can get together in one place to show their support," said Oland, who has organized the event with
help from a small committee, "and it's also a good opportunity to promote membership to the Legion, not just our Legion but any Legion," she said. Oland has written letters of invitation
to 36 other Legions, and has encouraged communities to organize transportation to and from the event. "We're seeing a new generation of war veterans ... and if we educate people and bring in new members, it will put the Legion in a good position to help veterans of all ages."
"Support Our Troops - We Wear Red" is a free event, made possible through support from businesses, the Town of Petawawa Parks and Recreation Department, Civic Centre Fundraising
Inc. committee who agreed to contribute bar proceeds, the town and numerous other organizations. All ten bands have also donated their time. "If the money we raise for the event exceeds what we need to put it on, the rest will be donated," said Oland. "The event itself is
more about showing our support as a community, and raising awareness of what the Legion does, than raising funds.
"It's about all our soldiers do in their communities and around the world, and all Legions do for those who need assistance." Free-will donations to support the Legion will be accepted on site throughout the day. For more information on the "Support Our Troops - We Wear Red" event, call 613-687-4657. The Legion is a non-profit, dues-supported fraternal organization with approximately 1,600 branches in Canada, the United States, Germany and the Netherlands.
The Legion receives no financial assistance from any outside agency. Membership is open to all Canadian citizens and Commonwealth subjects who subscribe to the purposes and objectives of the organization. The purposes and objectives of the Legion were born of the need to further the
spirit of comradeship and mutual assistance among all who have served, and never forget
the deeds of the fallen. In addition to acting as a veterans' advocacy agency, and assisting veterans and ex-service members in need and their families, the Legion also contributes
to programs for seniors, youth scholarships and bursaries, sports programs and activities.

Perhaps, we could charter a bus from the Baseball Game on the Saturday to Petawawa for Sunday! Now that's spirit! ... don't forget to wear your red!

Available now: The Eternal Flame Broach

Roses, always a symbol of love in the military community
are represented by the firm, unyielding stem of a budding rose -
just as military wives and mothers and sisters are firm in their commitment;
in the face of adversity, and in facing all the challenges they must.

The velvety leaves of the rose, represent a softness which corresponds
with the supportive hearts military wives and mothers possess - and a willingness to always be there for each other.

The flame of the broach, represents all women in the military community
who continue to keep the home fires burning

This beautiful broach, which is fast becoming the

national symbol for military wives and mothers,
is now available.

Cost is $6.75 each (including shipping)

Please make your cheque payable to:

"The Eternal Flame"

Mail to: 16 East Street, Petawawa, ON K8H 2N8

Proceeds from the sale of these broaches will be directed to

The Sapper Mike McTeague Wounded Warrior Fund

For information or questions, please email Dianne at : tcollier@renc.igs.net

Keep the home fires burning
While your hearts are yearning
Though our lads are far away,
They dream of home.... Ivor Novelo/Lena Ford 1914

Soldiers Deploy

Medics up for challenge Soldiers eager to put skills to use in war zone

Bombardier Steven Gilby, 32, embraces his
six-month-old daughter Bevyn at CFB Petawawa, where troops held a departure
ceremony yesterday prior to their deployment to Kandahar. "It's hard to leave
her," the proud new dad confesses.

PETAWAWA -- A television in the corner of the field hospital canteen is on but nobody's watching.
It's somewhat ironic, since a live update is relaying news about U.S. operations in Afghanistan and a group of 42 Canadian medics are minutes away from leaving for the war-ravaged country.
These medics are a young, excited lot. They gather in small groups around the CFB Petawawa canteen, socializing before a long bus ride to Trenton and an even longer flight to Kandahar.
There is an undeniable sense of nervous anticipation.
"It's basically a roller coaster of emotions," Capt. Nori Bickwell confides while exchanging goodbyes. "The only thing that helps you get through it is this team. As a medical unit, we have to rely on each other."
These are Canada's military lifesavers, trained as medical specialists and combat-ready troopers.
Bickwell, 34, is a critical care nurse and one of a handful of Ottawa-based medics being deployed to Afghanistan on a six-month rotation. She joined the military to pursue a degree in nursing. Sixteen years later, she finds herself being catapulted into a war zone -- and it's at a time when critical care in the military is changing.
"The casualties we're seeing in this mission isn't like what we have seen in the past," Bickwell says, explaining that new enemy tactics, like suicide attacks, have altered how medics are trained.
Sadly, these medics predict a busy rotation.
Thankfully, patient care is what they live for.
"It's hard to refuse," Lieut. Luc Dionne says before grabbing his bag and reporting to roll call. Dionne, a 25-year-old health-care administrator based in Ottawa, only learned last month he was going to Afghanistan, but it's an opportunity he says many in the medical profession won't ever get. 'The pinnacle' Capt. Jacques Pinard agrees. "It's probably the pinnacle of my career," says Pinard, a 27-year-old health-care administrator based in Edmonton. The medics have been receiving advice from soldiers already in Afghanistan about preparation. They also received some tips on some "luxury items" to pack for the trip -- if "luxurious" constitutes running shoes, gloves and a toque. Complete Story at Ottawa Sun