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

God Bless Sgt. James MacNeil - Monday, June 21st, 2010

It was difficult learning the news of our fallen soldier. The name sounded familiar. It was. Friends and comrades are devestated and share in the grief with the family of Sgt. Jimmy MacNeil. Our hearts and prayers are with you.

Repatriation ~ He is Coming Home
Sgt. James MacNeil is on his final journey home. The repatriation is scheduled for Friday, June 25th, 2010 at 2:00 pm at CFB Trenton, ON
Please wear red, carry a flag and stand with others on the overpasses along the Highway of Heroes (401 Westbound from Trenton to Don Valley in Toronto). It is a chance to pay respects and show the family that they are not alone during such a difficult time in their lives. Let's show the MacNeil family and comrades our compassion for our fallen soldier.
Chimo Jimmy. Thank you for your dedication, courage and compassion. You will always be remembered.

Sergeant James (Jimmy) Patrick MacNeil

Canada's soldier was killed after an improvised explosive device detonated during a foot patrol,about 20 kilometres southwest of Kandahar City, in the Panjwa'i District, at approximately 8:00 a.m. Kandahar time on 21 June 2010.

Killed in action was Sergeant James Patrick MacNeil from 2 Combat Engineer Regiment, based in Petawawa, Ontario. Sergeant MacNeil was serving with 1st Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment Battle Group.

We are all thinking of the family and friends of our Canadian fallen comrade during this sad time. The commitment and sacrifice of our military and their loved ones are helping to make a difference in the lives of the people of Kandahar Province.

Sgt. James MacNeil, 28, a “proud Cape Bretoner” from Glace Bay, N.S., was killed by an improvised explosive device near the village of Nakhonay while on a joint foot patrol with the Afghan National Army. He was on his fourth tour of duty in Afghanistan.

Jeannie Lind, his cousin, said MacNeil was planning a new chapter in his life and had just become engaged to Laura, a teacher living in Glace Bay as well, hoping to eventually buy a house and become stationed in Sydney, N.S.

MacNeil was sports enthusiast who played rugby, hockey and baseball, was well-loved by everyone in the community. “He was the life of the party. He would come home and make sure he visited everyone, family and friends. Everybody loved him. Even the janitors where he was stationed were crying today. He was very easy to talk to and get to know,” Lind said, adding that she used to email MacNeil frequently, but is now afraid to check her inbox to read his last dispatch. “I was very proud of him, extremely, we can’t believe it,” she said, adding that MacNeil’s fiancée is devastated. “I haven’t seen her, I’m sure she’s not doing good.”

MacNeil is the second straight Canadian soldier to die in Nakhonay, about 15 kilometres southwest of Kandahar city. Nakhonay is in the Panjwaii district which is known as the birthplace of the Taliban. It has been a battleground for Canadian troops since they arrived in Kandahar province in strength four years ago. While villages and towns have been repeatedly cleared, the Taliban have quietly reasserted themselves in parts of the region.
He was the epitome of excellence and professionalism, said Vance, who called him a “proud Cape Bretoner” who couldn’t say no to a social gathering. Vance said MacNeil was known for his good sense of humour and, according to his men, was a great person to work for.
“He was blessed with a permanent smile and eyes that could not conceal the mischief that he was no doubt contemplating.” Vance said that after MacNeil’s last deployment to Afghanistan, and before his promotion to sergeant, he was recognized as the top master corporal in 2 Mechanized Brigade Group.
Ramp Ceremony ~ Afghanistan
~He is Coming Home~

Under a bright desert moon, Sgt. MacNeil began one last journey home, leaving behind the long shadows and grim faces of his comrades at Kandahar Airfield. Sgt. James MacNeil, of Glace Bay, N.S., was on his fourth and final tour of the battle-racked country when he was killed Monday by an improvised explosive device -- the very weapon the 28-year-old combat engineer was tasked with seeking out and defeating.
His fellow soldiers hoped to take some sort of inspiration from MacNeil's death, which came in much the same way so many others have before: on a dusty road during a routine foot patrol, this one near the village of Nakhonay, 20 kilometres southwest of Kandahar city.
"To a man, we were all affected and many continue to struggle and cope with his death," fellow combat engineer Maj. Jim Smith said Wednesday during an early-morning ramp ceremony at the sprawling military base.
"We continue to fight the good fight in his honour, in his memory. We all must believe that we do this for him."
Less than 24 hours before his death, MacNeil and his girlfriend got engaged long-distance and began making plans for a wedding and a new home.
"It'll be a tremendous loss, and I know it's going to be hard for us to recover from this, but he will always be remembered by those he was closest to as a guy who loved life, loved his friends and loved Laura, his fiancee," Smith said.
1,200 Canadian, Dutch, American and British troops marched onto the tarmac, standing at attention while the light armoured vehicle transporting MacNeil's body slowly made its way onto the airfield. To the familiar skirl of bagpipes, the casket -- shrouded in a Canadian flag -- was carried to a waiting military transport by eight of MacNeil's fellow soldiers.
In remembering his friend, Smith chose to focus on MacNeil's life, rather than his death.
"I've known Jimmy for many years, since 2001 in fact, and I've always loved his sense of humour -- he always tried to be the centre of attention, whether intentionally or not, and he was always the centre of the party," Smith recalled with a smile. "But I can assure you, he was well-liked and well-respected by all his officers, peers and soldiers alike."
In a statement Tuesday, family members said MacNeil was an outgoing and loving young man who died doing something he believed in. "He loved his military career and at the time of his death was on his fourth operational deployment to Afghanistan," the statement said.
"He believed that his career in the military and his deployments to Afghanistan would contribute to a better life for the Afghan people."
Family in Glace Bay, Nova Scotia Prepare for Sgt. MacNeil's Return Home The family of Sgt. James (Jimmy) MacNeil is hoping the public will help honour his final trip home. Nadine Navarole, a first cousin of the late Sgt. Jimmy MacNeil, said the family plans to provide a Highway of Heroes — like the one in Ontario — welcome home.
“When Jimmy is brought home, we are asking anyone who knew him or anyone who would just like to honour him to line the highway — as a salute — from the highway outside the Sydney airport to McGillivray’s Funeral Home in Glace Bay,” she said.
“We are also asking anyone in uniform, such as firefighters and legion members, to come out and stand proudly in their uniform, like Jimmy always did.”
MacNeil, the son of Velma MacNeil and stepfather Allan Burke of Dartmouth, and James MacNeil and stepmother Hellen MacNeil of Glace Bay, joined the military in 2000 after graduating from Glace Bay High School. “He promised us this would be his last tour,” Navarole said. “He fell in love with a wonderful woman — Laura Boutilier, a teacher in Glace Bay. They were looking for a home, getting ready to settle down.”
MacNeil will be repatriated at CFB Trenton on Thursday at 2 p.m. where the official Highway of Heroes is.
His family, including aunts, uncles and some other members, are going to Trenton for the service. The family believes their son will be brought home Saturday, but are still waiting for confirmation. On Tuesday, family members were busy making funeral arrangements. Details have not been finalized, but the service is expected to be held next week at Immaculate Conception Church in Bridgeport.
Navarole said the day also included a lot of reminiscing about the wonderful memories MacNeil left behind. “He had a way of making each and every individual member of his family feel like they were his favourite.” Navarole said the family is receiving an overwhelming show of support from the public. “It is overwhelming and greatly appreciated.”
Kathy MacKinnon, also a first cousin of MacNeil’s, said the news has hit the extremely close-knit family hard. “He was the baby of all the cousins. They all called him their baby boy, it is a devastating blow.” MacKinnon said MacNeil was so family-oriented, all his vacations were spent at home with his family. “When he was home, every family member got to see him,” she said.
“He meant everything to his family and his family meant everything to him.”


Condolences

If you would like to leave a note of condolence, please place it in the comment section, and I will transfer it below. Regards, m.m.
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Our family is deeply sorry for your loss Jimmy was a close friend of my son Master Cpl. Cory Coulson they were a close bunch they loved him for the person he was . We will not forget Jimmy. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time . We are so very proud of him for all the good he has done. Our deepest sympathies Sharon & Bill Coulson

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It was with great sadness that my husband, Jean-Daniel Lafond, and I learned of the death of Sergeant James Patrick MacNeil of 2 Combat Engineer Regiment, based in Petawawa, Ontario. Sergeant Macneil was killed when an improvised explosive device detonated while he was on foot patrol, some 20 kilometres southwest of Kandahar, in the Panjwa'i district.

Driven day after day by their sense of duty, the members of the Canadian Forces answer their country's call in response to Afghan security commitments undertaken by NATO-member countries, under the auspices of the United Nations. Sergeant MacNeil was a dedicated participant in this most complex and perilous mission. We shall forever be indebted to him for the tremendous perseverance, courage, heroism and generosity that he exhibited. We shall not forget him. I know that Canadians are as one in their desire to offer comfort and support to Sergeant Macneil's family, friends and brothers-in-arms. We join them in extending our deepest sympathies and condolences. ~Michaëlle Jean

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"The Canadian Forces and the Department of National Defence mourn the death of Sergeant James Patrick MacNeil, who was killed today after an improvised explosive device detonated during a foot patrol, about 20 kilometres southwest of Kandahar City. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his loved ones in this time of grief.
Sergeant MacNeil served valiantly alongside his comrades to help build a better and brighter future for Afghans. His passing illustrates some of the risks that the selfless men and women of the Canadian Forces face every day in carrying out their duties.
Canada is in Afghanistan as part of a UN-sanctioned mission to help build a stable, democratic, and self-sufficient society. Our Canadian Forces members are playing a key role in this NATO-led mission, helping improve the security situation in order to create the conditions necessary for Afghans to live normal lives.
Sergeant MacNeil was bringing hope to a population that has seen much hardship and turmoil. His death is a terrible loss for the Canadian Forces and all of Canada." ~Peter MacKay

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“On behalf of all Canadians, I offer my deepest condolences to the family, friends and comrades of Sergeant James Patrick MacNeil, who died today after an improvised explosive device detonated during a foot patrol, about 20 kilometres southwest of Kandahar City. May you be consoled by the knowledge that an entire country stands behind you in your grief.
“Sergeant Macneil was a courageous, dedicated soldier who gave his life trying to help the Afghan people build a better future for themselves and their country.
“Canadians stand proudly with the men and women of the Canadian Forces as they make brave sacrifices in support of this UN-mandated, NATO-led mission to bring peace and security to the people of Afghanistan.
“Sergeant MacNeil’s life and death serves as an example of the bravery and outstanding dedication of Canadian Forces members on this mission. Canada will remain forever grateful for his sacrifice. We are all saddened by this loss. ~Prime Minister Stephen Harper

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Sadness again for Sgt MacNeils family and fiancee, As well as the extended members of the Invisible Army. May he Rest in Peace his duty done. May his family find strength in his brothers in arms friends and Canadians who care.
www.invisiblearmycanada.ca ~ Robby McRobb

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Word cannot express what sorrow this tragedy has brought to the friends and family of Jimmy. A kindred spirit has no place in a war of senseless violence and greed. If only time could be reversed... this man is a soldier for heaven now and guards all of our hearts for the rest of the day... I bless all of you to have the strength to get through this difficult time... Rick

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I am just a fellow Caper, who is touched by this boy's story. The words and photos shared by those who knew him best, tell the tale of a wholesome young man, full of life & love. May that love surround those he cared for, in his short , but meaningful time on earth. The memories may bring attention to his absence, but will help honor the void that can never be filled. Try to hold on to the happy times. I am sure there were many. God bless, and keep him. In the arms of the angels, an angel on earth is no longer restricted and held back by the human form. He tried to free those he fought to help. He is now free, to help for eternity. Those he left behind continue their battles, personal and global, in his honor. RIP soldier. May we all find such peace in memory of our local hero. A sad time for our island home, our whole country feels the loss, the world could use more like him.. Anonymous
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It was such a sad day learning of Sgt. McNeil. In disbelief, I called my son asking him if Jimmy was serving, "Well, information I have says that Jimmy is a Sgt, Jimmy isn't a Sgt." I said to my son. He replied, "Yes he is... Mom, what's going on?" I then told him. We were both shaken and there was a silence and tears. IMy son served with Jimmy during Roto 2. I had an opportunity to meet him and chat with him during their deployment day. Such a wonderful person. I took a picture of him with his fellow comrades when they made the stop at the the Tim's enroute to the awaiting plane. I look at that picture and the smile on his face- such an infectious smile. I have used this picture in my slideshow and dedicated it to Jimmy. I can't imagine what his family is going through. He will me missed by all, but always rememebered. ~ m.m.

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God Bless Sapper Sean Greenfield- Sunday, January 31st, 2009

Today we hear the news of a fallen Canadian Soldier and we grieve with his friends and family here as well as his military family and friends who worked closely with him in training and through his tour overseas. May they keep Sapper Greenfield's memory and love alive within their hearts as God holds him close to his.

To the family of Sapper Greenfield: These are diffucult days ahead. Be supportive toward one another. Honour Sean by reflecting on the very precious moments you each shared together. Share those moments with all that come to honour him for he has touched many hearts and lives. Never ever is forgotten the ultimate scarifice, ever not today or all the tomorrow's. . I pray that the Lord holds you in the palm of his hand and give you his peace..

Military Mom at Home

Sapper Sean Greenfield

Canadian soldier, Sapper Sean Greenfield, was killed today when his armoured vehicle struck an improvised explosive device about 40 km west of Kandahar City in Zharey District. The incident occurred at approximately 2:45 p.m., Kandahar time, on January 31, 2009.
Killed in action was Sapper Sean Greenfield from 2 Combat Engineer Regiment based at CFB Petawawa. Sapper Greenfield was a member of 24 Field Engineer Squadron from 2 Combat Engineer Regiment from Petawawa and was serving with the 3rd Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment Battle Group.

Greenfield was a member of an engineer regiment taking part in an operation to dismantle explosives outside Kandahar City. Those who knew his work say he contributed to the success of the dangerous mission.
"He'll be remembered for being that really outgoing young vibrant part of the community and his regiment," said Col. Dean Milner.

News of his death has sobered the Petawawa community, which recently mourned the death of Trooper Brian Richard Good who was killed three weeks ago.
"It's quiet, people want to talk about it, but they don't want to talk about it. You can see it in the sadness in people's eyes, I don't know how else to say it," said Petawawa resident Donna Fowler.
"Any death is going to be tragic to the family, and to everybody who has known them," added Dan Whitman, who works with the military's casualty administration office.
"With local guys it's even more difficult because they're from here, from the village and the village is very small and it impacts everybody."
Sapper Sean Greenfield had a way of making a lasting good impression on everyone who crossed his path. "He was a great kid, the kind of kid you knew would go on to be a success in whatever he did in life," ~ Gary Serviss, Greenfield's high school teacher
"Sean was someone who always had a smile on his face -- it was infectious. He was fun-loving, good-natured, a bit of a trickster but loved by everyone, really good kid," ~ Debra Rantz, principal of General Panet High School
And that’s being reflected in the outpouring of grief from his friends, family and colleagues in Canada and around the world.

Sapper Greenfield’s death is being mourned by relatives in Manitoba and Ontario, former schoolmates, by military colleagues who trained with him as a combat engineer and even by people in Finland he had befriended while travelling.
Just last Christmas, he was on leave and visiting the Indonesian island of Bali.
A Finnish traveller who met Greenfield at the Bali beach resort of Nusa Dua, wrote on Facebook that she can’t believe this is true as she only just met him and spent Christmas with him.
“He was one of the people I looked up to most when I was younger, since I didn’t have an older brother. It’s cliche to say how good a person someone was after they pass, but Sean’s case is no cliche. He didn’t have a bad bone in his body,” his cousin, Chad, wrote in an e-mail to the Globe and Mail. “He didn’t deserve this.”

Sapper Sean Greenfield attracted people with his guitar and won them over with his smile.
It was something he did as a teen at home and as a soldier in Afghanistan.
But those gifts are gone forever.

Hundreds of his fellow soldiers stood on the tarmac at Kandahar Airfield last night as his casket was carried onto a military aircraft. His body will be returned to CFB Trenton in coming days.
"Sean was first a friend and now a hero," Christine Labrecque told the Star yesterday from Petawawa, Ont. Her husband, Ben, and Greenfield shipped out to Afghanistan the same day last September.
"I remember saying goodbye to both of them and thinking how brave they both are.
"Sean was saving lives in Afghanistan, possibly my husband's and (those of) other close soldiers. He is simply a hero in my eyes and I am so proud of him.
"Sean was so funny, charming, kind, intelligent and very brave. Sean has a very loving family and my heart goes out to them."
Lt.-Col. Roger Barrett, commanding officer of the Battle Group, said Greenfield kept fellow soldiers upbeat. He said people gravitated to Greenfield whenever he played guitar and sang in the makeshift mess halls of Canadian outposts.
"Once he started playing guitar, he would draw a crowd in, and sometimes there would be persons of the opposite sex that would come into that crowd," Barrett said. "So, (he was) a very popular young man and a very personable young man."
Greenfield was part of a mission to target Taliban bomb-making and weapons storage compounds in the western districts of Panjwaii and Zhari, Barrett said. The operation included British and American troops and soldiers from the Afghan National Army.
The Taliban claim to be in the midst of a winter campaign to sow the plains of Kandahar province with makeshift bombs.
Canadian military commanders claim the number of bombs they find outweighs the number of attacks. During the mission, Barrett said soldiers uncovered "numerous caches" of explosives and materials used to make the bombs, which have been the scourge of coalition troops in recent months.
"There is a lot of material that simply won't be buried in roads because we have it now," he said.
"There is a finite supply of materials. Now, in that part of Kandahar, they are going to have to go elsewhere, cobble together all the materials, find a safe place to put them together, reconstitute and start over."
Joint Task Force Afghanistan (JTF-Afg) is the Canadian Forces (CF) contribution to the international effort in Afghanistan. Its operations focus on working with Afghan authorities to improve security, governance and economic development in Afghanistan.
JTF-Afg comprises more than 2,830 CF members. Most of them serve at Kandahar Airfield or Camp Nathan Smith, the home of the Provincial Reconstruction Team in Kandahar City. CF members also work at various military headquarters and support bases in southwest Asia, and with civilian organizations in Afghanistan.

He is Coming Home- Repatriation
Our fallen soldier, Sapper Sean Greenfield, from 2 Combat Engineer Regiment based at CFB Petawawa, Ontario, returns home to Canada
Where: 8 Wing, Canadian Forces Base Trenton, Ontario.
When: Tuesday, February 3, 2009 at 2:00 p.m.
What: At the wishes of the family, media will not be permitted on the tarmac.
Present to pay their respects will be Her Excellency The Governor General of Canada, The Right Honourable Michaelle Jean, Minister of National Defence, The Honourable Peter Gordon MacKay, Chief of Defence Staff, General Walt Natynczyk and other dignitaries.
Join others along the Highway of Heroes and on the overpasses in honour and respect of our Fallen Soldier Sapper Sean Greenfield as his family accompanies him along our Hero's route. (Hwy 401 West from Trenton to Toronto) Bring and hold a flag if you can - let them know we are here in support of their son's efforts overseas.

Condolences... If you'd like to leave words of condolence, please place them in the comments section below and I'll transfer them to this page. With Kindest Regards, ~m.m.
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My husband, Jean-Daniel Lafond, and I were overwhelmed when we heard that another Canadian Forces soldier, Sapper Sean Greenfield from 2 Combat Engineer Regiment based at CFB Petawawa, was fatally wounded by an improvised explosive device while conducting a security patrol, 40 km west of Kandahar City.Attacks like these are ongoing and violence continues to rage in Afghanistan. The bravery and determination with which Canadian soldiers conduct their work and face terror on a daily basis is truly astounding. They are convinced of the importance of helping the Afghan people, of standing up to hatred, and of achieving security, which is an absolute necessity for reconstruction and human development in a country so filled with despair.Our hearts and thoughts are with Sapper Sean Greenfield's family, friends and comrades in arms, as they have suffered a heartbreaking loss. We know their sorrow is inconsolable. On behalf of all Canadians, we offer them our sincerest condolences and our utmost respect for everything he so generously accomplished before he paid the ultimate sacrifice.

~Michaelle Jean - Governor General Canada

"I wish to express my heartfelt sympathy on behalf of the Department of National Defence to the family, friends and comrades of Sapper Sean Greenfield, who was killed today when his armoured vehicle struck an improvised explosive device in the Zharey District."Spr Greenfield was engaged in an international effort to prevent the Taliban from once again plunging Afghanistan into a state of fear and chaos. This UN-sanctioned, NATO-led mission is a challenging one, but Canada and its allies will not be swayed from this noble cause. Spr Greenfield selflessly gave his life in an effort to alleviate the suffering of the Afghan people. We will not forget his sacrifice."

~ Peter McKay - Minister of National Defence

My deepest condolences to Sapper Sean Greenfield's family and friends.
My heart goes out to all those serving in Afghanistan and hope that they feel rewards even in the pain.

~SusanE

It's a Sad Day

It is with deepened sadness that I post the following article. I am in shock as are the many soldiers in their company. Their deaths have affected people on both sides of the world.
As well, my heart cries with a family member of one of the soldiers. She had read this blog and communicated with me during "our" deployments. I can't imagine what she is going through.
My prayers are with them. As well - to the soldiers - remain focused and stay strong. We are proud of you and we grieve with you.

Two Canadian soldiers killed and four injured in Afghanistan
Two Canadian soldiers, as well as one member of the Afghan National Police and one Afghan interpreter were killed on December 27, 2008, when an explosive device detonated in their vicinity in the Panjwayi District.
Four other Canadian soldiers and one Afghan interpreter were injured in the incident, which occurred at approximately 12:15 p.m. local time, approximately 25 kilometres west of Kandahar City. The soldiers were conducting security operations in the area when the explosion occurred.
Killed in action was Warrant Officer Gaétan Roberge, from the 2nd Battalion, The Irish Regiment of Canada. He was serving as a member of the Police Operational Mentoring and Liaison Team.
Also killed in action was Sergeant Gregory John Kruse, from 2 Combat Engineer Regiment, Canadian Forces Base Petawawa. He was serving as a member of 3rd Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment Battle Group.
Members of Task Force Kandahar are committed to improving security and increasing development in Kandahar Province. I think of the family and friends here as well as military families - comrades of our fallen soldiers currently serving in Afghanistan during this sad time.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Ramp Ceremony - Kandahar- Saying Goodbye

Tears stream down a pallbearer's face during a ramp ceremony Sunday at Kandahar Airfield for Warrant Officer Gaétan Roberge and Sgt. Gregory John Kruse, who were killed by a roadside bomb. Photo Credit: CBC

Canadian troops bade farewell to two more comrades Sunday in Canada's military mission in Afghanistan. In a ramp ceremony at Kandahar Airfield, the flag-draped coffins bearing the bodies of Warrant Officer Gaétan Roberge and Sgt. Gregory John Kruse began the trip home.
The two Canadians, acting as mentors for Afghan police, were killed by a roadside bomb Saturday on a security patrol in Panjwai district, west of Kandahar city. An Afghan police officer and an interpreter also died.

Soldiers salute during the ramp ceremony Sunday

On Sunday, both men were remembered as dedicated, professional soldiers who loved their jobs.
Roberge, a member of the Royal 22nd Regiment, had just returned from leave the day before his death, and had immediately insisted on rejoining his crew in the work of mentoring and training the Afghan National Police force.
Capt. Shane Gapp, Roberge's platoon commander, described Roberge as an exceptionally strong man, who once ate eight portions of military rations and could lift a truck.
"He was quick to laugh, quick to love, and always did the best that he could," Gapp said.
Roberge was also a man of strong faith "who didn't hesitate in demanding communion or a prayer of support whenever he felt the need," said Padre Michel Dion.
Dion offered condolences to Roberge's wife, Joanne, and his four children.
"Je me souviens," he said.
Kruse - an engineer section commander with 24 Field Squadron, 2 Combat Engineer Regiment - was a quiet and gentle man who loved being a sapper and who took pride in his work.
"He cared about his soldiers above just about everything else and the only thing he cared second to his soldiers was absolute success in everything he (did) as a soldier," said Maj. Matthew Sandy, commanding officer of 24 Field Squadron.
Kruse also worked with the squadron's quick-reaction force, responding to dangerous calls involving IEDs.
That's what he was doing when he and other members of the quick-reaction force, came out to examine a homemade bomb discovered by Roberge and his team of Afghan police officers.
Military officials said it wasn't yet clear whether it was that bomb that caused the explosion, or if another had been planted in the area. The matter remains under investigation.
Sandy said many soldiers owe their lives to the work Kruse did in Afghanistan.
"As an engineer, he gets people to where they want to go and once they are there, he makes sure they are safe to do their jobs. That's what he does," Sandy said.
At their home base in Petawawa, Ont. the soldiers were remembered Sunday.
"It is always difficult to receive the news that our comrades have fallen, but it is especially difficult at this time of year," said Col. Dean Milner, commander of the 2 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group at CFB Petawawa.
At the ramp ceremony, Padre Dion read from an e-mail written shortly before Christmas by Kruse's wife, Jill.
"Thank you to all the soldiers who continue to make sacrifices for us to enjoy the life that we have here in Canada. Christmas has finally come and our soldier isn't home and for over 2,700 families their soldiers won't be home either and for some families they won't have their soldiers sit at their table for Christmas dinner again. Please keep praying for the troops who are deployed, the families who support them and the families whose soldiers have fallen," the e-mail stated.
Kruse was also the father of three girls, including daughter Kari and twins Victoria and Megan.
"This past year has been a very difficult one. It is coming to an end under a cloud of grief and terrible sadness for these families cruelly struck by loss, for our soldiers, for Canada, for Afghanistan and for the entire world," Governor General Michaelle Jean said Sunday.
"We recognize the tremendous courage of these women and men who have chosen to serve with the Canadian Forces and who are prepared to make incredible sacrifices, facing every peril to help people in danger and aid them in their desire to achieve freedom and security."
Liberal Leader Michael Ignatieff praised the soldiers as dedicated to their country.
"The deaths of Warrant Officer Gaetan Roberge and Sgt. Gregory John Kruse remind us of the daily risks and sacrifices the men and women of our Canadian Forces make in service of our country," Ignatieff said in a statement Sunday. "We are grateful for their dedication to Canada and to building a safe and secure Afghanistan."

Repatriation - Our Three Soldiers are Coming Home

Sgt. Kruse and WO Roberge will arrive home tentatively on Tuesday, December 30th, 2008 at CFB Trenton, ON at 2:00 pm. Their repatriation has coincided with the delay of the repatriation of Pte. Freeman. All three soldiers will arrive on the tarmac in Trenton on Tuesday.

Please join others on the overpasses of the highway of heroes. (Hwy 401 between Trenton and Toronto). The entourage is expected to pass through Northumberland between 3:00 and 3:30 p.m. and then continue through Durham Region betweeen 3:30 and 4:15 p.m.
Wave a flag or wear red - let the families know they are not alone as we grieve by their sides.

See condolence messages below.

Private Michael Freeman - December 26th, 2008- 12:45 PM

Canadian Soldier, Private Michael Freeman, Killed in Afghanistan

It is with heavy heart that I post the following entry.
Our Canadian soldier was killed and three others were injured when their armoured vehicle was struck by an explosion in Zharey District about 12:45 p.m. Kandahar time, December 26, 2008.
The fallen soldier is Private Michael Freeman of 3rd Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment based at CFB Petawawa.
My thoughts and prayers go out to family and friends of our fallen soldier as well to his family and friends who served alongside Private Freeman in Afghanistan. The dedication and sacrifice of soldiers like Private Michael Freeman has helped make a difference in the lives of countless Afghan citizens. You will never be forgotten.

God Bless Arielle Keyes-Oliver - October 25, 2008

It is with sadness that I announce the death of a soldier - Gunner Arielle Keyes-Oliver. Bless her family - the Keyes-Oliver family, her University Family in Ottawa and her military families in Petawawa, Ottawa and Guelph - Giving them strength to travel together during this difficult journey ahead.
May prayers also be with the wounded soldiers in Petawawa as well as the soldier injured in Afghanistan and their families - giving them strength together and strength in healing.
With sympathy and prayers,
~m.m.
Oct 25, 2008 19:59 ET
One Soldier Killed, Four Seriously Injured During Training Accident
A soldier is dead and another four are in serious condition in hospital after a training accident at Canadian Forces Base Petawawa.
At approximately 10:30 a.m. local time, a Medium Logistics Vehicle Wheeled (MLVW) carrying ten soldiers rolled over in the CFB Petawawa training area during a military exercise while riding in the back of the military truck when it rolled over in the training area on the west side of Highway 17.

Gunner Arielle Keyes-Oliver, a member of 30th Field Regiment, Royal Canadian Artillery, was the soldier killed in the accident. Also injured in the accident were Second Lieutenant Ryan MacIntyre, Bombardier Jordan Anstey, Bombardier Frederic Koch, Bombardier Alexander Mullaly, all soldiers are members of 30th Field Regiment (RCA) a Reserve unit based in Ottawa.CFB Petawawa Fire Department, Military Police, and paramedics from the County of Renfrew responded to the accident. Base information officer Cpt. Andrew Hennessy said the injured soldiers were transported to the Pembroke Hospital for treatment. Everyone is currently described as being in stable condition.
The incident has stunned the base.
"Any loss is a shock. The Canadian Forces is a close-knit group, like a family," said Lt.-Col. Moore. "An incident like this strikes at the heart of all our members.
"Our condolences go out to the family of Gunner Keyes-Oliver for their loss." Approximately 50 members of the regiment were at CFB Petawawa for the weekend where they were conducting typical artillery and field craft training.
"Our focus right now is looking after the family of Gunner Keyes- Oliver and providing support to them which is followed by taking care of the injured,"Lt.-Col. Moore said. "All members of the regiment and leadership are pulling out all the stops to help."
While emphasizing that caring for the family of the deceased soldier as well as caring for the injured are the priority at this time, Lt.-Col. Moore did say an investigation into the incident has already begun.
A team from the Canadian Forces National Investigation Service (CFNIS) arrived in Petawawa late Saturday afternoon and is currently investigating the accident.
Following the accident, the weekend exercise was called off and the remaining members of the regiment, which had been bivouacked in the training area, were brought back to the base for a warm meal and support.
Lt.-Col. Moore said immediately after the incident, military chaplains visited the injured and the members of the unit to provide support.

The MLVW
The truck the soldiers were riding in was described as a Medium Logistics Vehicle Wheeled or MLVW. The vehicle is basically the army's standard truck. .MLVW -The Medium Logistics Wheeled Vehicle (MLVW) is the workhorse truck of the Canadian military. It is used to haul equipment, spare parts, troops and to pull artillery guns. The vehicle weighs in at roughly seven tonnes. The Canadian Forces has 2,769 of the vehicles which entered service in 1982. I found this linked story "Temporary restriction of Medium Logistics Vehicle Wheeled (MLVW)R-00.139 22 - December 22, 2000 " to be of interest.

This is the first fatality in the base's training area in six years. On Sept. 23, 2002, Sapper Mariebeth Short, 22, a member of 2 Combat Engineer Regiment, died after the light-armoured vehicle (LAV III) she was travelling in rolled over on the Mattawa Plains.
Previous to that, in 1999 Master Cpl. Don Lasante of Petawawa was electrocuted when the communications antennae he erected touched a live hydro line. The incident occurred during an exercise taking place near Beachburg. Four other troops were injured in the incident.

Arielle was part of the 11th Field in Guelph, ON before transferring to the 30th Royal Canadian Artillery in Ottawa where she attended Carlton University.

Carleton University Mourns a Student, a Soldier... a Friend
The halls of Keyes-Oliver's floor in residence seemed quiet, but a large tribute prominently displayed on a bulletin board spoke volumes. Floormates were able to leave messages along the edges of the board on bright pink paper or on paper ornamented with a rose, beside a note explaining it would go to Keyes-Oliver's family. One student wrote: "Our floor's not as fun without you. We will miss your smile and personality. Rest in peace." Her family, friends and peers remember Keyes-Oliver as an exceptional friend, student and soldier. "Arielle always put a smile on your face no matter what you were feeling," said Richard Carpenter, who met Arielle when he was 12 while they were both in Sea Cadets. "She was a great friend, a strong leader and a damn fine soldier."Shannon O'Connell said she met Keyes-Oliver on the flight to a cadet summer camp in Nova Scotia."She taught me everything from how to shine my boots, to lighting up a room with one smile," O'Connell said.She recalled one time at camp when Arielle was sent home sick."My whole division got up in the middle of the night to see her off," she said.Jhuntue Dion-Alexander Keith Grey met Arielle at summer camp where they were in the same gunnery division two years in a row."Most of the time she was positive and funny . . . she made everyone want to stay," he said. "The course we took was really stressful . . . She made me look forward to going back to summer camp."Grey remembered Arielle's determination in everything she did."A lot of the people that knew her from cadets are at a loss right now," Grey said. "They can't believe it's happened. She's always been the determined one keeping everyone going."Arielle had always been interested in doing something involved with the military, Grey said, whether it was being in cadets or joining the reserves. Keyes-Oliver was one of The Bytown Gunners of the 30th Field Regiment in the Royal Canadian Artillery while she was attending Carleton in her first year. Carleton President Roseann Runte wrote a letter to students Oct. 27 that said: "Arielle and the dedicated servicemen and women with whom she was traveling, and who were seriously injured, merit our respect and admiration for their commitment to Canada, their dedication and their courage." The school said grief counselors are available on campus for anyone who needs them.

Details on a memorial at Carleton have not yet been finalized.

Statement from the Keyes-Oliver Family:
" Arielle lit up the world with her smile and sense of humour. She was a wonderful daughter, granddaughter, niece, sister, cousin, girlfriend, and friend to many. She was also a wonderful soldier. She was proud to be a Canadian and proud to wear the uniform. She was amazing in everything she set her goals on, from playing the drums, piano, and trumpet, being a sea cadet and gunner, to kick-boxing and horseback riding. After graduating university she planned to travel the world and work internationally. Arielle was a natural leader and was concerned with everyone she came in contact with. In groups of friends, she was always considerate that they were taken care of. Although her life was far too short, she touched the lives of many. She will be greatly missed by all. We would like to thank our family and friends for their support in our time of mourning."

The Keyes-Oliver family wishes that the Media respect their privacy during this period of deep mourning. Information concerning the funeral service will be made later as details are known.

Obituary
ARIELLE KEYES-OLIVER 1989 - 2008 Passed away tragically, at CFB Petawawa on Saturday, October 25, 2008, at 19 years of age. Arielle is sadly missed by her loving parents, Diane and David; her beloved sister, Tressa; cherished grandparents, Ken and Catherine Richardson of Cambridge, Doug and Eileen Oliver of Grey County; and her special friend, Antoine Trabulsi. She will be forever remembered by her many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. Arielle was born in Cambridge, graduated from KCI in Kitchener and was attending Carleton University in Ottawa. Among her many interests were music, horseback riding and kickboxing. Arielle was a Sea Cadet at No. 94 Warspite in Kitchener for five years and next month would have been her two year anniversary in the army. She attained her Gunner's Hat Badge this past summer. Arielle was involved in three regiments, the Highland Fusiliers of Cambridge, and the 11th and 30th Field Regiments of the Royal Canadian Artillery. Friends are invited to share their memories of Arielle with her family during visitation at the Erb & Good Family Funeral Home , 171 King Street South, Waterloo, on Thursday, October 30, from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. and Friday, October 31 from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. The funeral Service will be held at Waterloo Pentecostal Assembly, 395 King Street North, Waterloo on Saturday, November 1, 2008 at 11 a.m. Interment will follow at Parkview Cemetery, Waterloo. Condolences for the family and donations to a Memorial Scholarship Fund in Arielle's name at Carleton University may be arranged by calling the funeral home, 519-745-8445 or http://www.erbgood.com/. In living memory of Arielle, a donation will be made to the Trees for Learning Program by the funeral home.

All Is Well

Death is nothing at all,

I have only slipped into the next room

I am I and you are you

Whatever we were to each other,

that we are still.

Call me by my old familiar name,

Speak to me in the easy way

which you always used

Put no difference in your tone,

Wear no forced air

of solemnity or sorrow

Laugh as we always laughed

at the little jokes

we enjoyed together.

Play, smile, think of me,

pray for me.

Let my name be ever

the household word that it always was,

Let it be spoken without effect,

without the trace of shadow on it.

Life means all that it ever meant.

It it the same as it ever was,

there is unbroken continuity.

Why should I be out of mind

because I am out of sight?

I am waiting for you,

for an interval,

omewhere very near,

Just around the corner.

All is well.

By Henry Scott Holland (1847-1918) Canon of St Paul's Cathedral

Condolences to the Keyes-Oliver Family
If you wish to leave condolences, please place them in the comments section and I will transfer them to the area below.
Regards,

Military Mom

"I am deeply saddened by the loss of Gunner Arielle Keyes-Oliver, who was killed yesterday in a training accident in Petawawa, Ontario. On behalf of the Department of National Defence and the Canadian Forces, I would like to offer our utmost sympathies to her family and friends during this very difficult time. I would also like to wish a quick recovery to the four other Canadian soldiers injured in the accident. Our thoughts are with you.Canada and the Canadian Forces have lost a bright, young and talented soldier. Her loss is a tragedy and she will be missed."
Peter Gordon MacKay
Minister of National Defence

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"My husband, Jean-Daniel Lafond, and I were deeply saddened to learn of the accident which claimed the life of Gunner Arielle Keyes-Oliver, who was stationed with the 30th Field Regiment, Royal Canadian Artillery. Our thoughts are also with the four others injured in this accident, as well as with the soldier injured in Afghanistan over the weekend.
The dedication of our Canadian Forces knows no limits, and it is now, as we come together to grieve this loss, that we can attest to it. Gunner Keyes-Oliver devoted her life in service of this country and today I join with all Canadians in supporting her family, friends and colleagues as they mourn her passing."
Michaelle Jean,
Governor General and Commander-in-Chief of Canada

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"Any day we lose one of our Canadian soldiers either overseas or in Canada is a sad day. "
Anonymous

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"Prayers to this family!
Airman Mom

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"My husband, and several of our friends knew her...they trained her. They will be attending the funeral on Saturday. Rest in Peace Gunner."

Anonymous

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"As the mother of three daughters, I can only imagine the loss that the Keyes-Oliver family is experiencing. My heart goes out to all of you and all of Arielle's friends and coworkers, as well. She sounds like an incredible young woman and she will be missed, I am sure."

Lana Keon Carleton University Staff

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"As the mother of a soldier, I cannot imagine the heartbreak Arielle's family and friends are experiencing. My prayers go out to you. Your inspiring daughter will not be forgotten."

wjcatnip

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"Arielle...30th field just isn't the same without you around. We all love and miss you so very much. Your time at the unit was short but we are filled with so many great memories from such a beautiful, talented, determined and friendly soldier. May you find rest up there in heaven. Arielle...End of Mission, Stand Easy."

Anonymous

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Letting Go

Well.. it happened. Honestly, it was a difficult time of my life. Letting go.

People have approached me and said, "This is your son's second tour, it should be easier this time." To tell you the truth, it's harder. It's like looking at a rollercoaster. If you have been on it before, then you know what's coming up.. the hills to climb, valleys to cross, the unexpected turns, and the familiar emotions that go up and down those hills.

We decided to go up a couple days in advance - to spend quality time with our son. We told him we were being selfish.. we want to be by him as much as we could. He smiled and say, " No, that's not selfish, it's being a Mom. " :)

We had many fun moments, memorable moments.. like the time he tossed my shoe into the Ottawa River and looked at me and smirked.. as I gave chase after him. Looking over my shoulder I knew I had to return to rescue my drifting shoe. His laughter, I truly cherish. And yes, I took my revenge with a spraying of the water.

Where to stay?
Then the thought came. Where were we to stay up there? (in confusion we had thought reservations had been made but they hadn't been.) We had to go..go on a mission.. a mission to find a place to stay. We started in Petawawa. It was booked up. Copying a page from the phone book, we started our mission. Leading towards Pembroke, we called a couple places (booked up), driving we saw no vacancy signs. Darn it. It was getting later.. and we wanted to spend time with our son! Further and further away we started finding some success.. however unfortunately.. for our um personal..um reasons.. those we chose not to stay at. Perhaps it was the odd odour in the rooms?

So we moved on. Finally we found one! (if you are in need of a place to stay, I highly recommend it!) It was the Comfort Inn in Pembroke. It overlooks the Ottawa River. Unfortunately we couldn't enjoy the view as it was getting dark. We were tired... and it would be a nice place to crash for the night.

Dinner
We met up with our son and his girlfriend over a nice juicy steak dinner. mmm at a restaurantwhich highly supports our troops. Yes, unbeknownst to him the three of us were counting the hours and moments, dreading the goodbye ... our last dinner together before deployment... 14 hours before check in..tick..tick.. His smile, his laughter... I love. We cherished each and every minute with him.. as we were aware the clock was ticking.. the deployment would soon be here. Together through tears, we all packed up his belongings in his room. As we parted we said goodnight... tick..tick.... tick... 8 hours till check in.

This was a year I shared my son - something new for me - he has a wonderful girlfriend who wanted to share him with us! She would encourage him many times saying "Sit beside your mother." And there were times we would walk away leaving them alone together so they could say their goodbyes as well. Yes - I wanted to be beside him every second, holding onto him and protecting him as mothers do- (heck, I'd go on that plane if I could) but he has someone new in his life - his love and I respect their relationship.

We returned to our place where I had things to do.. I still wanted to finish a sign for the deploying soldiers..and as last time.. write a letter to him - reminding him how proud I am of him (this I wrote with tears streaming down my cheeks)... I needed to pack up and being ready as the morning would come soon enough.

Morning
The sun rose brightly as we packed up to meet him at his breakfast meeting of choice: Tim Hortons -Our last breakfast before check in. My son was not there yet and looking around I noticed a couple - he looked like he was deploying on the same chalk. With effort, she smiled as I passed their table. I smiled back and nodded.

My son approached through the parking lot wearing his desert tans. I jumped up and ordered for him as he greeted fellow soldiers that entered. Introducing me to them - I learned of a soldier whose wife will be deploying soon. He will be parenting their 3 children in her absence - he had deployed 2 years previously (my thoughts will be with you.) The coffee didn't last long enough... his girlfriend K. and I exchanged glances and we knew what the other was thinking.. this was it.
As we approached the building, it looked much bigger than before. Ominous in the morning skies. Nope, changed my mind.. didn't want to do this... as I had promised him no tears and I could feel the stinging in my eyes already.

Check In

Entering, I noticed many, many soldiers and families inside - hugging, taking pictures, laughing, sipping coffees, shaking hands... Here was the place where I met the section - the men serving with my son. Some mothers closeby looking proudly on as we shook hands. I would then turn and give the moms a hug as I knew what they were feeling. My son phoned his grandfather from his cell phone - as his grandfather wished him the best and let him know that he was praying for him. His grandfather wanted so much to be there with him, however with his age, the trip was a difficult to make. His heart was there.

__

The Padres, dressed in desert tans as well, came and spoke with us, reassuring us that they would be watching over the troops while overseas. They had a big job ahead of them as well.

Please pray over them and protect them.

People spoke with one another, some saying their tearful goodbyes until we heard the booming commands. Soon, they started calling the names. Roll Call. "Sgt. ___ " "Here!" Ironically, they were disappearing one by one into the light - the doorway where the buses were parked. We kept holding hands, praying and trying not to cry.

Soon my son's name was called and he walked away. Head held high. He walked towards the door. While walking away from the room, I noticed one mother crying uncontrollably. I stopped and held her in my arms. I hope I was able to comfort her in some way.

Outside the building, many people stood. I noticed one woman, wearing red, waved feverishly as each bus passed. The troops need this support. We passed many yellow ribbons as we travelled through the base.

Through Eganville, the buses drove over a bridge adorned with yellow ribbons. Lots of support.

A BIG SALUTE TO THE PEOPLE OF TWEED, ONTARIO

Then they edged towards Tweed. Here I had attached a big yellow ribbon (dwarfed by the letters on the sign) to their welcome sign (as I knew they would be making a stop at the Tim Hortons here) Unbeknownst to me.. the people of the town were awaiting the arrival of the soldiers in the Tim Hortons parking lot! Wearing red shirts - men, women and children cheered our troops- waving their Canadian flags feverishly! What an amazing sight. Well, tears flowed easily now. It was such a moving experience to see this!

They cheered loudly as the soldiers disembarked the buses towards the building. The troops stopped and shook hands with the towns people and chatted with them. At the entrance of the building, stood the manager handing out Tim Hortons Certificates to the soldiers and veterans stood close by shaking hands of each of our troops. I thanked many of the people their for their outstanding support - letting them know that it meant a lot not only to the soldiers but to families as well.

Soon they left the parking lot. Under a police escort, they drove along the main road. Here I noticed all the houses sporting flags and signs saying "Bless Our Troops" "Support Our Troops." The legion in Tweed awaited their arrival where veterans and more towns people had gathered, cheering our soldiers! and again their flags. What a sight! The soldiers left the buses and met with the towns people who wished them well on their mission. The veterans came to me and gave me hugs - letting me know that they would be praying for them.. assuring me of their safety.

Soon the bus' horn sounded and the soldiers climbed on board. The people gathered and waved and cheered.

THANK YOU TWEED FOR ALL YOUR OUTSTANDING SUPPORT!

CFB Trenton

Well the air force base approached soon enough. .. too soon. Slow that clock down. Families re united with their soldiers. Hugs were everywhere. Looking around I noticed some soldiers talking on their cell phones.

Last calls before boarding for the land far away - on the other side of the world. Soon we learned that we had a 2 hour wait. Some sat inside the airport, some approached the pay phones to make their calls. (trying to make light of things, I teased them saying they were calling in pizza orders) others went outside. The sun was strong. It didn't matter. The sunkiss would be a reminder of this day. As hunger pangs started, I suggested to my son to take orders for Tims for his section and I would send my husband to fill their orders. (o.k. have to let you in on this -I told my husband that our son was taking orders from all the soldiers - he nearly fainted) We would have done so if we could. I promise.

Saying not goodbye.. but see you soon

Sitting outside, I soon noticed the arrival of the box filled with coffees, teas, donuts, etc. Sitting on the curbside with his girlfriend on one side and myself on the other of my son (her orders:) we sat sipping our teas. Soon it was time. Time to say our goodbyes. Thinking of the other soldiers, I decided to say goodbye outside. My son turned to me and said "Well Mom.. it's time." He said, "you are so brave and are doing so well." I looked to him, holding onto him tightly, I wept -hard. With my tears soaking into the desert camoflauged uniform, I told him I failed - I wasn't the brave one now. But I let him know how much I love him and how proud of him I am. I told him from the time he walks through the door, his focus and worries should not be on us, but only on the mission ahead of him. Holding onto his hand I again told him I loved him once again and then let go.

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