Man Honouring Our Troops Told to Move His Truck

What do you think? ....  This truck has been here since our soldiers deployed overseas. Should the city make him move it? Somehow I don't see one of the quoted bylaws listed in the parking regulations in that city, Does this infringe on our freedoms? ...

As posted in The Record March 24, 2012

Man Told to Move Truck that Honours Canada’s Troops

TRUCK Kitchener resident Jeff Meyer was told by the city to move his retired Canadian Armed Forces truck from his lawn. The truck is decorated as a tribute to the troops who were fighting in Afghanistan.

David Bebee/Record staff

KITCHENER — A man who parked a military truck on his front lawn in support of Canadian troops in Afghanistan was forced to move the vehicle because he was violating a city bylaw.
Not long after Canadian troops went to war in Afghanistan, Jeff Meyer, 49, parked the M-131 army truck on his small front lawn on Victoria Street and decorated it with yellow ribbons, flags and banners. It was a highly visible demonstration of support for the soldiers on that mission and in remembrance of the ones who died there.
“I can’t believe this is happening when the truck has been there for years,” Meyer said.
On Wednesday a city bylaw officer shut him down.
The city forbids parking on front lawns. The city also forbids parking vehicles without plates in driveways. Meyer’s army truck runs well, but it does not have plates.
“Different groups stationed in Afghanistan have photographs of that truck with their unit,” Meyer said. “People from all over the world, who are tourists, took pictures of the truck.
“Local injured soldiers’ mothers have stopped in, crying, to thank me for putting it out there.”
Meyer said he wants a compromise that would allow him to park the truck in the driveway, where it is visible to passersby.
The city’s bylaw department did nothing about the truck for years because nobody complained about it. Bylaw enforcement officers only act on complaints.
Shayne Turner, the head of bylaw enforcement, said the city is sensitive to the fact the truck and banners were a tribute to the troops in the Afghan war.
“We understand the importance and emotional attachment to military issues,” Turner said.
Licensing the vehicle and parking it in the driveway would solve the problem.
“Let’s find something that balances the needs of the property owner and the needs of the neighbourhood,” Turner said.
tpender@therecord.com

Deployment Support Centre

Deployment is something that affects all members of the family. Stress can often present itself before, during, and after a deployment. Deployment makes physical and emotional demands on the service member, spouse, children, family and friends. Deployment affects everyone involved.
Remember: you are not alone. When my son was away, I found comfort in speaking with personnel from the DSC when I didn't know where to turn. On a personal note, I want to thank them so much for helping me during a time of need. They will assist you if you're worried, feeling sad, or have a question.
The mission of the Deployment Support Centre is to provide the best possible support to all families who are experiencing the absence of a loved one due to a deployment, course or tasking.
Their staff will assist you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Toll-Free Number: 1-877-218-9993 (Canada)

Military Appreciation Rally - Quinte West

MILITARY APPRECIATION RALLY

Quinte West Ontario
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2010
LEAVING BAIN PARK AT 10:00 A.M.
WALKING DOWN HWY#2 TO SOUTH ENTRANCE OF BASE
WE ENCOURAGE EVERYONE TO COME OUT AND SHOW THEIR SUPPORT TO THE MEN AND WOMEN OF THE MILITARY AND THEIR FAMILIES
NEIGHBOURS SUPPORTING NEIGHBOURS
BRING YOUR FLAGS; SIGNS; AND PERSONAL SUPPORT
HOPE TO SEE YOU AT
BAIN PARK
CORNER OF HWY #2 & RCAF ROAD
(WEST END OF BASE)
LOTS OF PARKING AVAILABLE

From the offices of:
Mayor John R. Williams & Members of Council City of Quinte West
For more information Contact: Mayor John R. Williams, City of Quinte West
613-392-2841 Ext. 4431
CITY OF QUINTE WEST
Office of the Mayor John R. Williams
P.O. Box 490 Trenton, Ontario, K8V 5R6

God Bless WO Brown, Cpl. Fortin and Cpl O'Quinn ~Tuesday, March 3, 2009

This morning I was awaken at 5:30 with tugging and a frantic voice.. "Wake up. three soldiers were killed. It's on the news." In distress, I flung the blankets and quickly found my Blackberry. Finding out that the soldiers' names were released, my thoughts quickly turned to their families. Still not knowing who they were I paced. Before long the little phone vibrated. The information was posted. It is now with sadness I share the information with you. With this I say a prayer for our Fallen - our brave, their families and friends here and in Afghanistan and to our injured.
To our fallen:-You have not died in vain- you have touched the hearts of the many people of Afghanistan in honour. You are a hero to all of Canada. To the families -these are diffucult days ahead. Be supportive toward one another. Honour them by reflecting on the very precious moments you each shared together. Share those moments with all that come to honour them, for they have touched many hearts. Never ever forgotten the ulitmate scarifice ever not today or all the tomorrow's. . I pray that the Lord hold you in the palm of his hand and give you his peace through your difficult journey ahead.

March 4, 2009
Three Canadian Forces Personnel Killed and Two Injured in Afghanistan
Three Canadian Forces personnel were killed and two were injured when an improvised explosive device detonated near an armoured vehicle during a patrol in the Arghandab District. The incident occurred northwest of Kandahar City at around 5:40 p.m., Kandahar time, on 3

Bless WO Dennis Raymond Brown, Cpl. Kenneth Chad O'Quinn, and Cpl. Dany Olivier Fortin

3 March, 2009.
Killed in action were Warrant Officer Dennis Raymond Brown, from The Lincoln and Welland Regiment, Corporal Dany Olivier Fortin, from 425 Tactical Fighter Squadron at 3 Wing Bagotville, and Corporal Kenneth Chad O'Quinn, from 2 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group Headquarters and Signals Squadron.
Vance described Brown, a reservist with the Lincoln and Welland Regiment, as someone who "always had an infectious smile on his face, no matter what the challenge." The Niagara-area native leaves behind a wife and four children. In civilian life, he served as a police special constable. Fortin, an air force member based in Bagotville, Que., who's middle name was Olivier, was known to his comrades as Danny-O. He was an ardent fan of the Montreal Canadiens of the National Hockey League.Vance said O'Quinn was "a proud, dedicated soldier, who had a bright future ahead of him." Known to his friend by his middle name, Chad, O'Quinn "believed he could accomplish anything in his life and everyone had the same faith in him," the general added
The soldiers were part of a quick reaction team that responded to a report of roadside bomb in the district, which is often used as a transit point for Taliban fighters coming down from the mountains towards the city.
"As they were returning from a call to clear an IED found on the road, their armoured vehicle was hit by a roadside bomb," said Brig.-Gen. Jonathan Vance, the commander of Canadian troops in Afghanistan.
The Canadian military, with the addition of surveillance helicopters and unmanned drones, have stepped up patrols looking for roadside bombs, which have accounted for more than half the deaths.
In the last three years, the Canadian battle group has only fought two major engagements in the Arghandab district, a lush farm valley that's divided by a river and isolated from the city by ridge of mountains.
Known as the northern gateway to Kandahar city, Taliban forces tried to take over the Arghandab in the fall of 2007 following the death of Mullah Naquib, a powerful tribal leader.
They were beaten back by Canadian troops.
And following last summer's attack on Sarpoza prison, hundreds of freed Taliban militants fled into the leafy growth and twisted laneways of the region, resulting in several pitched battles.

The injured CF personnel were evacuated by helicopter to the Role 3 Multi-National Medical Facility at Kandahar Airfield. They are in good and fair condition, and their names will not be released.

We Learn About the Fallen and Grieve with Their Families: The wife of one of the three latest Canadian soldiers killed in Afghanistan said Wednesday she and her husband spoke often about the possibility he might die in the line of duty.
Mishelle Brown, the wife of Warrant Officer Dennis Brown, called her husband a hero and her "powerhouse."
Brown said her husband was a realist, and many times they discussed with their four children what they would do in the event of his death.
"I was expecting this," she said. "I was prepared for it. Dennis and I talked about it often."
Brown said she spoke with her husband for more than an hour the day he died from an roadside bomb blast in the Arghandab district.
"I never took Dennis for granted - not even for a second," she said.
Brown was a reservist with the Lincoln and Welland Regiment in southern Ontario who served as a police special constable in civilian life.
"He chose to go on this tour, and he fought really hard to get time off from his job with Niagara Regional Police to do it, and I supported him every step of the way - and I still do," his wife said.
"When I asked him why he wanted to go on this tour, Dennis said, 'If we don't get them in their backyard, they're sure to get us in ours.' "

Cpl. Kenneth O'Quinn. who was based at CFB Petawawa, On., was born in Happy Valley-Goose Bay, N.L., and spent his childhood there, the provincial government said in a release.
"Our deepest sympathies and prayers go out to the families and friends of these three valiant men," said Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Danny Williams.
"Personally, and on behalf of all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians, I extend condolences to the family of Cpl. O'Quinn. Our thoughts and prayers are with his loved ones and those of his comrades."
29 Year old Cpl. Dany Fortin, an air force member based in Bagotville, Que.Fortin, had been in Afghanistan since last September and was set to return in April.
"He took to heart his job as a soldier," Lt.-Col. Paul Prevost told a news conference at CFB Bagotville, about 200 kilometres north of Quebec City.
"In Bagotville, as in Afghanistan, he was one of those whose leadership contributed to motivating his peers."
Prevost said he had met Fortin's mother and that his death was proving very difficult for her.
"But she was very proud of her son," he said. "Dany was doing what he had dreamed of doing."
Fortin was originally from Baie-Comeau, Que.
Brown called her husband her "dream come true."
"Nobody can take that away from me," she said. "No roadside bomb can take that away from me. It can take away my future with him but it can't take away my past."

Ramp Ceremony in Kandahar -They are brothers of the military. They trained together, travelled together, worked together, and come home together. They come home to their loved ones.

Padres and hundreds of ISAF soldiers line the ramp at Kandahar airfield showing their respects to their fallen comrades, their brothers. Photo credit: Combat Camera

Pallbearers carry their fellow comrades to the plane awaiting to take them home. Photo Credit: Combat Camera

Repatriation -They Are Home - CFB Trenton

Friends and family members of three Canadian soldiers who died this week in Afghanistan gathered together on a windy airfield Friday to attend a repatriation ceremony to bid farewell to their fallen loved ones. Warrant Officer Dennis Brown, Cpl. Dany Fortin, and Cpl. Kenneth O'Quinn were killed by a roadside bomb blast while patrolling near Kandahar city on Tuesday.Their bodies were brought to Canadian Forces Base Trenton on Friday. Strong winds blew on the airfield as dozens of family and friends hugged each other, sharing in their grief, many holding roses to their chests as they watched the ceremony. The three flag-draped coffins were carried by soldiers from the Hercules transport plane to waiting family members as bagpipes played.Brown's widow, Mishelle Brown, who spoke to the media earlier this week about how her husband was a "hero to his kids,"appeared strong on the tarmac but stumbled and broke down when her husband's coffin emerged. She was accompanied by her four children, who approached their father's coffin, also crying. Niagara Regional Police Service (NRPS) members were present for the repatriation ceremony on the tarmac at CFB Trenton on Friday afternoon, out of respect for Brown, who served as a special constable with the police service. Brown joined the NRPS in 2001 and was assigned to its court services unit. He continued to serve with the police service until taking a leave of absence to serve in Afghanistan last fall. Defence Minister Peter MacKay and Vice Admiral Denis Rouleau, vice chief of defence staff, were also scheduled to be on hand for the repatriation ceremony at CFP Trenton. After the repatriation ceremony, a convoy will carry the fallen soldiers' bodies to Toronto along the Highway of Heroes -- the stretch of highway between Trenton and Toronto. Two NRPS cruisers were scheduled to follow the procession to Toronto. Give them strength during their difficult journey ahead.

Mishelle Brown and her children watch as the flag draped casket of her husband Warrant Officer Dennis Brown is repatriated at CFB Trenton on Friday afternoon. Photo Credit: Pete Fisher

Children of Warrant Officer Dennis Brown approach the flag draped casket that, moments before his body was placed in a hearse at CFB Trenton. Photo Credit: Pete Fisher

The bodies of our fallen soldiers prepare to travel along the Highway of Heroes. Photo Credit: Combat Camera

Jenna Brown, age 12, daughter of fallen soldier Warrant Officer Dennis Brown looks out the limosine window waiting for the procession to start along the Hgihway of Heroes after the repatraition at CFB Trenton. Photo Credit: Pete Fisher

Note: Requests for support for WO Brown from MP Rick Dykstra in St Catharines about the funeral service for WO Dennis Brown on Saturday, March 14th at 2 pm.

Warrant Officer Dennis Brown - Ways to show support
In order to show support to the family of Warrant Officer Dennis Brown, who died in Afghanistan on March 3rd, we asking people to wear, wave or display yellow ribbons. We have lapel ribbons here at the constituency office, free of charge for people to stop by and pick up. If you have a tree in your yard, tie a yellow ribbon around it, or tie one to your car antenna. This show of support means a great deal to Dennis’ widow, Mishelle Brown and also to the members of the Lincoln and Welland Regiment. Mishelle is hoping to see lots of red as the motorcade arrives in St. Catharines. Let's show the Red Fridays colours for Mishelle.
Books of condolence will be available this week at 68 Church St. and the Robert S. K. Welch courthouse at 59 Church St. The public is invited to sign the book, which will be presented to his family.
A trust fund has been set up for the Brown Family through Meridian Credit Union, Ridley Square Plaza, 111 Fourth Ave, St. Catharines, ON, L2S3P5. Phone: 905 688.6563905.688.6563. Account # 3631959. Cheques may be made payable to "The Lincoln and Welland Regiment ITF Dennis Brown Family". Mail cheques directly to branch, or to the Lincoln Welland Regiment at 81 Lake Street, St. Catharines ON, L2R5X3.

Words of Condolence (if you wish to leave words of condolence, please post them in the comments section and I will transfer them below. Kindest Regards, M.M.)

• May the men and women who serve be blessed.I think of all the fallen and especially those who died today. May their souls rest in peace knowing they have done their part in showing the people of Afghanistan that Canada does care for their plight.My thoughts and blessings to the family and friends, may they find peace in knowing that Canadians value their sacrifice. ~SusanE.
  
• "Blessed are the peacemakers", comes to mind as I read about the three Fallen Canadians. Prayers go to the families and other loved ones. Please know that the rest of our country mourns with you. ~Ed Tokarchik
  
• Heart breaking for the soldiers families...both civilian and military. They will not be forgotten. ~Anonymous


• "To the family and friends of Warrant Officer Dennis Raymond Brown, Corporal Dany Olivier Fortin, and Corporal Kenneth Chad O'Quinn, who died yesterday in Afghanistan, I offer my deepest condolences. Our entire country stands behind you in these most difficult and trying times. I also hope for a full and quick recovery for the two other Canadian soldiers injured in the attack.These soldiers served valiantly alongside their comrades while helping to build a stable Afghanistan. Our Canadian Forces members in Afghanistan face an enemy that will go to any length to undermine progress in building a democratic and self-sustaining society. The courage demonstrated by these soldiers speaks volumes to their dedication to Canada and to creating a better country for the Afghan people. The commitment of our service men and women to this goal is not diminished by these attacks. Their participation in the United Nations-mandated mission is a true reflection of Canadian values: helping those in need and defending the interests of Afghan citizens.We are making a difference and the Government of Canada stands proudly with the Canadian Forces as they strive to protect Canadians, our interests and our values. This is a tragic loss for the Canadian Forces and all of Canada. Let us never forget Warrant Officer Brown, Corporal Fortin and Corporal O'Quinn, whose sacrifices served to make life better for others.” ~ Prime Minister Stephen Harper


• Jean-Daniel Lafond and I were deeply saddened to learn that the explosion of an improvised explosive device, 10 km away from Kandahar, took the lives of three Canadian soldiers and seriously injured two of their comrades during their mission in Afghanistan.
  Despite great personal risk, Warrant Officer Dennis Raymond Brown, from The Lincoln and Welland Regiment, Corporal Dany Olivier Fortin, from 425 Tactical Fighter Squadron at 3 Wing Bagotville, and Corporal Kenneth Chad OQuinn, from 2 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group Headquarters and Signals Squadron, joined forces with the Afghan people, who continue to be terrorized by a merciless violence. Our soldiers know better than anyone else that peace can never be taken for granted, that it must be built. With amazing courage, generosity and conviction they responded to the call of duty in an effort to bring peace to a country mired in conflict. It cost them their lives. They deserve our utmost respect.
  To all those who are mourning today—their parents, their families, colleagues and friends—we offer our most sincere condolences. May they know they are not alone. May they know that Canadians, from across the country, share in their sadness and their loss.
  Our thoughts are also with the injured soldiers who survived these attacks and with their loved ones, for whom the shock is equally deep. We are grateful for the vital role you play during this time of adversity, and send our hopes for a quick recovery.
  Michaëlle Jean


• "We grieve the loss of Warrant Officer Dennis Raymond Brown, Corporal Danny Olivier Fortin and Corporal Kenneth Chad O'Quinn, who died yesterday in Afghanistan. These brave soldiers were killed when the vehicle in which they were riding stuck an IED while on patrol near Kandahar City. I want to take to opportunity to wish a speedy recovery to the two soldiers who were injured in the same explosion.
  My heartfelt sympathies and thoughts are with the families and loved ones of Warrant Officer Brown, Corporal Fortin, and Corporal O'Quinn, who should be proud of the selfless sacrifice made by these brave soldiers. This is a tragic loss for Canada and for the Canadian Forces - but it was not in vain. Afghans are re-establishing themselves and their communities, and their lives are improving.
  These brave Canadian soldiers gave their lives helping to create the secure conditions needed for reconstruction efforts - building schools, hospitals and roads - to be successful in Afghanistan
  I join with Canadians and the Government of Canada in supporting our troops and those of our allies, who are helping create a better future for the Afghan people. We will honour the sacrifice of these brave soldiers by continuing our efforts to build a safe and secure Afghanistan." ~Peter Gordon MacKay, Minister of National Defence


• May Almighty God bless these fine heroes and bring comfort to the families who love them so. ~AM


• Rest in peace men and know we will remember you. From a former airwoman with a son in the Lincoln and Welland Regiment. ~Penny Davis

Outreach Support in Cambridge!

There is now an Outreach Support Coordinator for London Military Resource Centre at the Cambridge site! This is BIG! Here you can bring your care packages, purchase support merchandise or a place to come for support. A BIG welcome to Donna Pickering (Outreach Community Support Coordinator)

Families of soldiers in the Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge and Guelph areas are invited to a

"Meet and Greet"

sponsored by LMFRC

at:

RHFC

Col. J.A. McIntosh Armoury,

1 Valour Place, Cambridge

(beside the Ainslie St. Bus depot)

Tuesday, October 7, 2008 at 7 p.m

View Larger Map
Please RSVP to either your support group secretaries or drop me a line and I can forward it on for you. They would just like to know numbers to expect for that evening.

Welcome to February's Meeting of Families

YOU ARE INVITED TO ATTEND A MEETING

OF

“FAMILIES OF CANADIAN SOLDIERS IN AFGHANISTAN”
ON

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2008 at 7:30 p.m.
AT THE 404 WING R.C.A.F.,

MEMBERS’ LOUNGE 510 DUTTON DR., WATERLOO

7:30 to 8:00 p.m. Arrival and Registration.

8:00 to 8:45 p.m. Guest Speakers: Cpl. Christopher Lock and brother, Richard Lock

8:45 p.m. Socializing and Refreshments

About Our Speakers

Cpl. Christopher Lock was deployed in Afghanistan during the second rotation from August 2006 to February 2007. As a local reservist, Christopher volunteered for the mission and will share his experiences both outside the wire and on base while he served in Kandahar as a combat engineer. His brother Richard, on the other hand, will share his experiences on the home front during his brother’s deployment. Both Christopher and Richard will be available to answer your questions.
Directions:
From Kitchener or out-of-town: Take 86 North (Conestoga Parkway) and take the Northfield exit (one exit past King St.). Exit at Northfield, keep right and proceed over expressway. Turn left onto Parkside Drive (at lights), and then left onto Weber. Go over the hill and turn immediately left onto Dutton Dr. The facility is located at the end of the road.

From Waterloo or downtown: Follow Weber St. N. and go past Albert St. (traffic lights) and turn right onto Dutton Dr. before going over the hill.

R.S.V.P. February 21, 2008 kerrytownson@rogers.com

View Larger Map

Families Meeting January 26th 2007

F.O.C.S.I.A. (Families of Canadian Soldiers in Afghanistan)
The next meeting of any Families of Canadian Soldiers serving or have served or will be serving in Afghanistan, will be on held:

Saturday, January 26th 2008
at 7:30 p.m.
at R.C.A.F. Wing 404
Members' Lounge
510 Dutton Drive
Waterloo, ON

Guest speakers will be Joan Stone (London MFRC) and Jen Stone (Hamilton MFRC). These women are developing a new Outreach program for family members of Canadian soldiers.
A time to meet with other family members while going through this journey. All families welcome.

(Please R.S.V.P. focsia@hotmail.com by January 25)

View Larger Map

Military Families Fund

Illustration credit: David Craig

On t.v. lately there have been announcements from the military in regards to the Military Families Fund. Personally I have served on the "deployment as a Military Mom" continuing constant support of our troops - yet wondering and worrying, yes many tears, feeling afraid, however keeping my chin up and always looking to my son with pride and always being here for him... and for other families. I know soon, I will be on this " deployment mission" again. (I know many local and national military families are and have always been here supporting our troops through rallies, letters, banners, yellow ribbon campaigns, endless care packages, .. and LOTS of love. Now the soldiers have turned to help us.) Today, I thought I'd provide details for you about the Military Families Fund. Thank you to our Chief of Defence Staff Rick Hillier for initiating this fund and our wonderful soldiers and CFPSA for supporting us - your military families.

The Chief of the Defence Staff, General Rick Hillier, in recognition of the outpouring of support from Canadians, announced the creation of the Military Families Fund. This fund will grow through the generous contributions of Canadians, corporations and other organizations, adding a new vehicle to support Canadian Forces members and their families.

"When our families call out for help, we must be able to answer that call immediately and substantially. Our families have been here for us through our enrolment, our training, our deployments, and our homecomings. The military life places significant demands on our loved ones. They did not volunteer for service – but serve they do, and with great distinction. It is our turn to be there for our families.” General Rick Hillier Chief of the Defence Staff.

The Military Families Fund (MFF) is an agile and responsive means for Base and Wing Commanders, in concert with Military Family Resource Centers (MFRC) across the country, to help military families within hours of being advised of need. It will help with short-term emergencies and also provide long-term support. The MFF allows CF leadership to meet the special-case needs of CF members and their families with speed and flexibility not always available through the traditional programs.

The MFF enhances and complements, it does not replace, existing public and non-public programs. The Fund fills the gaps by providing for the unforeseen and often immediate needs that families may have due to conditions of service .

The MFF allows for several areas of support by way of interest-free loan or grants, including rehabilitation, education, financial assistance in the case of injury or death of a CF member due to service, and urgent and extraordinary financial demands where the ability to provide family necessities is at risk.

Contributions can be made either:

On-line: https://www.cfpsa.com/en/corporate/mfamily/contributions/default.aspx

By Mail - make cheque or money order payable to:

CFCF - Military Families Fund

c/o Canadian Forces Personnel Support Agency

4210 Labelle Street

Ottawa, ON K1A 0K2

By calling: 1-877-445-6444

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION VISIT: http://www.militaryfamiliesfund.ca/

Canadian Forces Officer Completes Cross-Country Cycling Tour in Support of Military Families

.
July 24, 2007 - Lieutenant-Commander Jean Marcotte will return from his two-month cycling tour across Canada in support of the CDS Military Families Fund, which was launched in April 2007 as a vehicle to assist Canadian military families at home and around the world.

Meet with LCdr Marcotte, his family and friends to acknowledge the end of his trip. LCdr Marcotte is a 37-year Canadian Forces (CF) member and avid cyclist. Donations have been collected since his departure representing one penny per kilometer cycled per donation and a representative of the Fund, Brigadier-General Martin will be present to accept a cheque for the CDS Military Families Fund from LCdr Marcotte.

LCdr Marcotte left Ottawa on June 2nd and first cycled to Newfoundland, where he dipped his bike into the Atlantic. After flying to Victoria, British Columbia, he then did the same in the Pacific and has made the trip home via central Canada. LCdr Marcotte is expected to cross into Ontario from the Champlain Bridge but his final stop will be on Parliament Hill.

WHERE:  Parliament Hill (by the Eternal flame)

WHEN:   Wednesday at 10:15 a.m. (Event will take place rain or shine.)
.
 An Excerpt from LCdr Marcotte's Journal:
.
Day 53 (July 24, 2007) - I left yesterday from a camp-siteocated at 
Point Alexander approximately 10 km in north of Deep River.
The lady of the camp-site had pity for me and made me a delicious
hamburger when I told her that I was probably going to carry on my way
until Deep River because I had not eaten anything since 10h00 in the
morning. Finally a good meal and a beautiful camp-site where I met a
couple from Perth that was returning from White Horse passing by the
Yellowhead trail. If ever I cross Canada again I believe that I will
pass by this road. I left with an odometer indicating 6915.2 km.
Yesterday was a beautiful sunny day, almost no wind but the little that
was present blew against me. I stopped in Petawawa and gave an
interview for the Petawawa Post for the CDS funds. Finally I stopped in
Shawville, Qc in a very beautiful and free municipal camp-site. This
morning I have 3 friends who come to join to me to do the last
remaining leg towards my house with me. This evening I will sleep in my
house and tomorrow a last leg from the house towards the Parliament
Hill with the CDS to officially give the cheque to the fund.

To view LCdr Marcotte's cross country journal online, visit: 

http://pages.videotron.com/cycleman
.

Response Regarding Support from Mississauga Councillor

To Soldiers currently serving overseas:
First - please know that I support your hard work, passion, efforts and commitment 100% as well as the majority of Canadians do... now..
Secondly... cover your eyes and skip to the next posting.

"You must not lose faith in humanity. Humanity is an ocean; if a few drops of the ocean are dirty, the ocean does not become dirty."

~ Mahatma Gandi

To the remaining readers:
Well.. I hummed and hawed about posting this email that I received. After some thought, I decided to do so (at her request).
This is a response (one of many received by Military Parents and Soldiers) from Mississauga's Councillor Carolyn Parrish.
Should she be working for the people in an elected office in Canada?

___________________________________________________________

Received on: July 18, 2007 10:29:25 AM
Received from: Carolyn Parrish,
Ward 6 Councillor, Mississauga, ON

Many people put their lives on the line
every day.My dad, as a Toronto cop, did
so for 37 years.He knew that when he
joined the force - as do firemen, guys
who man oil rigs in the ocean and many
other jobs people do every day.
They're all trained to be as safe
as possible,as are our soldiers fighting
under normal circumstances.Afghanistan is
not normal.  Many of our soldiers signed
up not knowing the conditions under which
they'd be fighting.  And Canada is not
under attack.Politicians sent them there
for political reasons - reasons I don't
agree with.  To those who hove returned
from fighting I say "thank God you're
home safely.I'm sorry you had to endure
terrible hardships to make some politicians
happy."  I'm sorry, but we'll have to
agree to disagree on Afghanistan.
I hope you broadcast this and my other
response to your network.
For me, the subject is now finished.

Sincerely,
Carolyn

Ward 6 Councillor


.. and... This was her first response to
Supporting Our Troops: 

Received on: July 13, 2007 2:09:08 PM
Received from: Carolyn Parrish
Ward 6 Councillor
Mississauga, ON

Dear Military Mom,

Thank you for your e-mail and for attaching several others.
Since they do not include e-mail addresses,
I would hope you'll forward this
response to them.

As a former member of the federal government, I'm well aware
of the various methods used by the highly-paid spin doctors
to garner support for a government position.
Today, polls show 67% of Canadians do not support our current
military involvement in Afghanistan.  We have a long
tradition, starting with Lester B. Pearson, of Peacekeeping.
And the world recognizes this.
Ergo, a campaign to try to subtly blur support
for troops with support for our activities
in Afghanistan is being undertaken to win over more of
the 67% who are not on side.
The Dominion Institute recently conducted
a survey that shows how non-political Canadians are.
Only 58% know the first two lines of our national anthem
and 18% can't name the Prime Minister while only 38% can
name our four political parties.  The spin doctors take
these statistics and launch simple campaigns to swing
public opinion in favour of Ottawa's projects.
Equating loyalty to our soldiers to patriotism is
their attempt to substitute loyalty to troops to
support for our battles in Afghanistan.

Of late, the Afghan political leaders have
criticized the U.S, Britain and Canada as overly
brutal and careless.  In their zeal to attack the
Taliban, hundreds of innocent women and children
are being killed and orphaned by the N.A.T.O. troops.

Canada fought hard to keep the world free
of the tyranny of despots and villains like Hitler.
Over the last fifty years, our population has not
grown sufficiently and spending on the military
have not kept pace with true military powers such
as Britain and the U.S.A.  Under former Prime
Minister Lester B. Pearson we carved a niche for
ourselves as the best Peacekeepers in the world.
Places like the Suez, Cyprus and Bosnia require
crack forces with U.N. or N.A.T.O. backing to
keep peace in the world's hot spots.
We have also perfected technologies for de-mining
countries such as Bosnia and Cambodia so fields
can once again be used to grow food rather than
rip arms and legs off.  Of this we are all
proud.

In this week's Macleans Magazine there's an
excellent article by Andrew Potter entitled
"Support the troops but not the war?  Sheer hypocrisy."
He asks, "does it make any sense to support the troops
and not the mission itself?"  He concludes:

"There are only two intellectually and morally honest
ways of supporting the troops.
One is to put the full economic and political
power of the state behind the war effort in
order to achieve victory as quickly and with
as few casualties as possible.  The other is to demand
that the government bring them home, now.
Every country relies on petty hypocrisies in
its political life, to minimize division and enable
competing factions to at least try to work
together.  The 'support the troops' movement is one
of those: the anti-war faction pretends to support
the troops, and those who support the mission pretend to
believe it.  Given the half measures that result,
it isn't clear that our soldiers should appreciate
the gesture."

I support our troops in their peacekeeping role,
in their assisting with national disasters like floods
and ice storms and in their efforts to de-mine
and improve countries previously destroyed by years of war.

I do not support sending our troops to Afghanistan
to bring western-style democracy to a country
whose people don't appear to want to move that far,
that fast.
I do not support sending our troops into Afghanistan to
relieve American forces so that they are free to send
more U.S. soldiers into Iraq where they're
causing civil war and chaos.

One father who recently lost a son wrote me:
"Everyone supports our troops and the ribbon has
far less to do with that than it does about
promoting a war in which people on both sides are
dying every day." "I recently lost my son so I
have some sense of what the families are
going through.Life is so precious and this conflict
is so needless."

As military parents, your positions are obviously
the only ones you can take.
Otherwise, how could you stand sending your daughters and
sons into harm's way so far away from home?
They are defending your right,and my right, to have
opposite opinions on this war and to express those
opinions openly.
I sincerely hope all your family members return safe
and sound.

Sincerely,
Carolyn

Ward 6 Councillor

Previous Post

Van Doos Deploy to Afghanistan Today

200 Quebec Soldiers Heading to Afghanistan from Base in Valcartier

Sunday, July 15, 2007

CREDIT: Francis Vachon A soldier stands guard during a parade for the family and friends of the Quebec soldiers leaving for Afghanistan.

About 200 soldiers from Quebec's Royal 22nd Regiment are shipping out to Afghanistan today from CFB Valcartier.

By August, a total of 2,500 troops, mostly based in Quebec, will head to Afghanistan this summer to take part in Canada's mission, taking over from Canadian Troops already stationed there.

The deployment is the first of several from Valcartier scheduled to take place between now and August.

Tears flowed and hugs were plentiful as the Quebec-based soldiers said goodbye to family and friends and departed for Afghanistan.

The troops boarded a plane bound for Kandahar under a light rain at Jean Lesage Airport in Quebec City.

The Van Doos say they are ready for what awaits them in Afghanistan and that they are well trained for the task.

(Photo:Mathieu Belanger)

Corporal Dany Saint-Laurent hugs his wife Sandra Lavoie at the Valcartier military base in Quebec City on July 15, 2007. Soldiers and their families gathered at the Valcartier Garrison before their departure to Kandahar in Afghanistan.

Defence Minister Gordon O'Connor was in attendance on Sunday, offering encouragement and support.

Mr. O'Connor told the troops: “Know that you are in our hearts and in our thoughts. Know that we are proud of you.”

Pte. David Pelletier and girlfriend Justine Thorel say goodbye at CFB Valcartier before Pelletier's departure to Afghanistan. He is part of first group of about 200 soldiers to fly out from Quebec to replace colleagues in Afghanistan.

In Quebec, there has been a strong opposition to the deployment of Canadian soldiers.

A survey released last month suggested 70 per cent of people of Quebec were opposed to troops from CFB Valcartier going to Afghanistan. Protesters also held an antiwar demonstration last month as soldiers paraded through the streets of Quebec City.

I know .. I for one support these soldiers! Godspeed.

Families of Canadian Soldiers in Afghanistan

Support Group Meeting

Waterloo Region

by: Jane Annandale

The meeting at the 404 Wing, our “new home” was indeed a special event. Over 40 attended the inaugural event including 404 Wing representatives Mike Turos and 404 President Vic Snowdon.


The monthly meeting of Families of Canadian Soldiers in Afghanistan was held on Saturday, February 24th at 404 Wing RCAFA on Dutton Drive in Waterloo. This is as association of families who support each other through the anxieties of having a soldier on rotation in Afghanistan. This meeting marked the beginning of their association with 404 Wing and all further meetings will be held at this location.

The large number of members and guests were honoured by the presence of two notable speakers. Mr Jawed Ludin, former Chief of Staff to President Hamid Karzai of Afghanistan and Lt Commander Albert Wong, head of Public Relations for the Department of National Defence, came to the meeting in a private capacity to give personal and candid messages of encouragement and thanks for the great service that our Canadian Troops are bringing to the people of Afghanistan. The general population of that country know that they will benefit from the presence of NATO Forces, and that there must be peace and stability to rebuild the infrastructure, commerce and industry that will take them from one of the poorest nations in the world to a position of self sufficiency. Both speakers answered many questions and helped to give a clear picture of what our monetary and military contributions have achieved. It is only with a continued presence of the 37 countries in Afghanistan, and especially the bravery and steadfast efforts of our Canadian Troops that the country will achieve its goals. Appreciation was also expressed for the support that our soldiers receive from their families and for the sacrifice of families who have troops away on foreign service.

The next meeting of Families of Canadian Soldiers in Afghanistan will be on March 31, 2007 at 7:30 pm at RCAFA 404 Wing, 510 Dutton Drive in Waterloo. Anyone wishing to attend the meeting should email focsia@hotmail.com or phone Kerry Townson, Membership Secretary at 519-888-9398.

Tributes and Support

"We support our troops!"

If Guelph can do it.....

Let's Decorate Our Cities with Yellow Ribbons for Our Soldiers

In the next couple weeks, soldiers from Rotation 2 in Afghanistan will be coming home. Are we ready? Recently, I read a write up in the Guelph Mercury. (see below) Yellow Ribbons will be adorning Guelph when the troops return home. Let's do the same! Let's share our pride, our support.. and welcome our Heroes Home!

Further note: I drove to Guelph this evening and witnessed a spectacular site. Many yellow ribbons fluttered in the breeze from the lamposts in front of Guelph's City Hall and to stand there and hear the ribbons fluttering in the wind, makes your heart melt. Thank you Guelph. It has has left me filled with pride and an overwhelming sense of appreciation- I can only imagine what it will do for our soldiers.

© m.m.

Picture taken by: Military Mom

©m.m.

Guelph's City Hall Feb. 10, 2007 ~Picture taken by Military Mom

© m.m.

Story published by the Guelph Mercury on February 9th, 2007:

Yellow ribbons on city buildings will greet troops
GUELPH (Feb 9, 2007)
The City of Guelph will attach yellow ribbons to municipal buildings this month as a show of support for troops returning from Afghanistan, says Mayor Karen Farbridge.
The ribbons, a symbol borrowed from military campaigns in the U.S., will be placed on the front doors of city hall. Managers at other city-owned buildings will be asked to do the same, Farbridge said.
By the end of this month, 12 soldiers from the 11th Field Artillery Regiment, a Guelph-based reserve unit, are expected back from their six-month tour of duty. Some regular forces soldiers currently in Afghanistan who call Guelph home will also be here on leave this month, the military said.
As the soldiers return, the Canadian Forces are asking citizens, businesses and municipalities to display yellow ribbons in prominent locations as a welcome home.
Although the military says any yellow ribbon will do, car magnets and the like can be bought through the Canadian Forces Personnel Support Agency at http://www.cfpsa.com/supportourtroops

Yellow Ribbons Decorate Guelph

Many thanks to D.B., for directing me to The City of Guelph's website where I found this press release! :

City of Guelph welcomes soldiers home with yellow ribbons

Yellow ribbons are blowing nobly in front of City Hall and City facilities today to honour and recognize soldiers from Guelph’s 11th Field Regiment who are returning from Afghanistan.
“We acknowledge the dedication of Canadian troops abroad, and in particular we wholeheartedly welcome the returning members of Guelph’s 11th Regiment,” says Guelph’s Mayor, Karen Farbridge. “It’s wonderful to have them back at home, and we’re thankful they’ve returned uninjured.”
The yellow ribbons are a tribute to mark the community’s appreciation for the solders’ service. They are meant to show the City’s acknowledgement of and respect for the soldiers who left their civilian lives behind for six months to serve in Afghanistan. In other displays of support, staff in the City’s Revenue and Taxation Division wears red on Fridays as a symbol of encouragement towards Canadian troops. ‘Red Fridays’ is a national initiative that acknowledges the sacrifices of Canadian soldiers and their families.

For information contact:
Tara Sprigg(519) 822-1260 ext. 2610 tara.sprigg@guelph.ca

A further note:
MacKinnon Transport of Guelph is in the process of putting ribbons on their property and their trucks will have ribbons and many employees have the magnets and/or a ribbon on their personal vehicles as well.

A big "HUA" for The City of Guelph

and MacKinnon Transport!!

I'd like to share some information about a group I hold dear to my heart - a group of wonderful friends- a new family - I have journeyed through these past 6 months with:

FAMILIES OF CANADIAN SOLDIERS IN AFGHANISTAN

"It is our mission to provide ongoing support to extended families and friends of Canadian Forces personnel who are currently deployed, awaiting deployment, or have returned from Afghanistan and/or other overseas missions. Through meetings, special events, and community awareness programs, our group is committed to increase support for our troops as well as our members."

Goals and Objectives

• Provide emotional support for all members of the group and individuals connected to Canadian Forces
• Build the morale of those deployed through participation in community events
• Promote awareness of the men and women serving in all branches of the military
• Provide information via round table discussions and guest speakers
• Respond to requests for support materials such as yellow ribbon pins, t-shirts, etc.
  
  Who We Are
  
  We are a welcoming community of families and friends of Canadian military serving in Afghanistan including those who have returned or have yet to be deployed. A few parents and family members first met in the summer of 2006 to share their feelings and concerns for their loved ones overseas. Through information sharing, monthly meetings, guest speakers, community events, and the media, the number of members has grown to include nearly 40 family groups. The name officially became “Families of Canadian Soldiers in Afghanistan” in September, 2006.
  
  What We Do
  
  Meetings are normally held on the last Saturday of each month and often include guest speakers on such topics as stress, reunions, special events, and information about the mission. Commencing February 24, 2007, these meetings will be held at the Wing 404 in Waterloo. Special events such as Red Friday Rallies, Parades, and Talk shows on radio and T.V. have also been organized to garner support for our troops. For further information about our organization, ordering support materials, or becoming a member, please contact us at focsia@hotmail.com.

Red Friday in Gagetown January 20, 2007

Red Friday Rally in Gagetown

Supported Canadian Troops

by forming the

Largest Human Canadian Flag

About 1,000 soldiers and their families braved a snowstorm for a patriotic pep rally at CFB Gagetown Friday that celebrated the military. Part of the festivities was to form the largest human Canadian flag in history.

It was a historic day at Canadian Forces Base Gagetown on Friday as thousands of people gathered to support 1,150 soldiers leaving for Afghanistan next week. The rally was the first of its kind in Canada.Despite Friday's snowstorm, everyone made sure they were on base early enough to be part of the human flag. "It's important to show support for your peers," said Capt. Lisa Compton, a nurse at CFB Gagetown. "It's important to show support for the families that are staying behind. Even though we're not going overseas, it's a big team and you have to show everybody that you're behind them." More than 3,000 people packed, squeezed and crammed together on a snow-covered soccer field across from the base gym to create the human flag, which measured 90 metres by 45 metres.The effort was part of Red Rally Friday, an event that attracted people from all over New Brunswick and Atlantic Canada.Because of the snow, the turnout was less than the 5,000 organizers had expected.It was also due to 1,000 school children who couldn't be bused to the location because of the decision earlier in the day to close schools.But that didn't dampen enthusiasm."It was great to see everybody come and show their support for the troops," Lisa Compton said. "The atmosphere was great. It was exciting. It was good to see that everybody had such good spirit and that, here in Oromocto and the surrounding area, we can be so patriotic."Within the next year, said Compton, either she or her husband will likely be making the trip to Afghanistan.Sgt. Danny Compton, with the artillery branch of the Forces, said he was impressed by the turnout.

Defence Minister Gordon O'Connor said Friday was a proud day to be a Canadian and was as much of a celebration as it was a farewell. He pledged to continue supporting the mission and the troops.Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Rick Hillier said the rally in red was a visible means of communities showing support for the soldiers."Equally, it is a tangible sign of support for those families who are left here in Canada and who also carry a very heavy burden on their shoulders," Hillier said in an interview. story
FACTS:

• there are 3300 people in this picture
• dignitaries included General Hillier and CFB Gagetown C.O. Colonel Jestin
• these people braved a vicious snowstorm to be participate
• all schools had been closed that day due to the storm
• HAVOC was wreaked on local roads
• it was taken around 2 pm
• some supporters waited eagerly since 9:30 that morning
• the picture was actually taken while the crowd thought they were in a "practice run"
• the picture was taken while the masses were singing the National Anthem
• the "red" effect is from red briston board placards
• placards were donated by "Hilroy Canada" and local buisiness "Covey Basics"
• all dignitaries and high-ranking officials are in the back red stripe

Support Our Troops Hockey Sticks

Support Our Troops Hockey Sticks

There's a hot new way to show your support for our Canadian troops - hockey sticks.
A hockey equipment company started making the sticks and donating a portion of the proceeds to military family resource centres across the country. Flarrow Hockey started nine years ago and since selling the first Support Our Troops Stick has raised about 6000 dollars for military families.
The sticks are available in regular size, junior size and a goalie model. They retail for about 25 dollars each. They are available at several different locations in the Ottawa region including:
Costco - Innes Rd.Rink Pro - StittsvilleGearhead Sports - PetawawaHome Hardware - various locations.
If you can't find one at a store near you, they are available for shipping anywhere in Canada courtesy of the Alexandria Home Hardware.

To order your Support Our Troops Stick just call 1-613-525-3151.

Thank you Alexandria Home Hardware!!

Reference Link

____________________________________________________________

A follow up story:
New Sticks Score Points Overseas:

What started out as a plan for one family to help their son serving in Afghanistan has turned into a way for the rest of the country to support the Canadian troops.
Flaro Hockey in Martintown, longtime makers of Flarrow hockey sticks, has made quite a splash creating and selling a red recreational hockey stick with the logo "S.O.T. Support our Troops."
Owner Denis Flaro says the venture started innocently enough, with an e-mail request from Cpl. Alan Billings, a technician with the Canadian Forces Tactical Unmanned Aerial Vehicle unit in Afghanistan, asking mom Shannon and father Jamie, who works at Flaro, if they could send a couple of hockey sticks for the troops to use in their rough-and-tumble pick-up games.
Apparently, the plastic blades on the sticks they had just couldn't keep up with the action.
After the request was passed on to him, Flaro thought it was a good idea. "That night, I got to thinking that maybe we should send more," said Flaro.

HARDY DESIGN
And so 50 flame-red hardwood shaft sticks reinforced with fibreglass, graphite and Kevlar and carrying the S.O.T. logo were specially made and sent off on a cargo plane from Petawawa.
Once word of the sticks got out at home, Flaro said regular customers wanted to purchase them as a way to support the troops.
"It's something that just took off, it wasn't planned," said Flaro, still sounding a bit surprised by it all.
Now, more than 10,000 sticks have been produced, and can be purchased at select stores across the region, such as Home Hardware and Don Cherry's Grapevine Restaurants.
A percentage of the profits from sales of the sticks goes to the Canadian Forces' Military Family Resource Centre, which offers support services to families of soldiers fighting overseas. A senior stick retails for about $25, and a junior for about $21.
Back in Afghanistan, the hardy Canadian sticks are standing up to all the soldiers have to offer -- and giving the Canucks an advantage in the 13-team Kandahar-based Canadian and U.S. ball hockey league.
AFGHANISTAN REPORTS
"They've done very well," said Flaro. "Alan e-mails all the time."
The family company back home has also gotten a boost, although that was far from the goal, he added.
"It's kinda nice when you're not thinking of any good coming out of it for yourself," said Flaro.

FOCSIA Held an Open House December 28th

For Soldiers and/or Family members of soldiers serving in Afghanistan, have served in Afghanistan or will be serving in Afghanistan...

"Families of Canadian Soldiers in Afghanistan"

(Support group based out of Waterloo Region) hosted an Open House at the Waterloo Branch at the Royal Canadian Legion on Thursday, December 28th 2006. Giving chance to meet with other parents, families and friends of soldiers serving overseas, it also gave everyone an opportunity to meet with soldiers who had served, currently serving (on leave) and soldiers preparing for deployment. We spoke with each other, met new family members, laughed, cried, looked at pictures, listened to stories -most importantly- provided support to one another.

"I'd like to give a special thank Cpl H. for answering all my many questions and providing me with a link to my son who seems so far away. Thanks for passing on that special hug."

If you are a mother, father, family member or friend of a soldier and would like further information or would like to become a member, contact Families of Canadian Soldiers in Afghanistan at:

Email: Familes of Canadian Soldiers in Afghanistan ">

focsia@hotmail.com

Continued Support for Our Troops

People are seeking ways to show their support for the brave men and women who serve with the Canadian Forces (CF) both at home and abroad.

Gore Mutual Insurance in Cambridge...

The staff at Gore Mutual Insurance are rallying around one of their co-workers (one of our Military Moms!) whose 23 year old son is currently serving overseas in Afghanistan.
She supports the troops as always by wearing her red "Support Our Troops" T-shirt every Friday. Well - the support is caught on. Her co-workers had asked to purchase the shirts and would wear them on Fridays as well. After being contacted by the Gore social commitee and being asked about selling Canadian Forces sanctioned shirts and other merchandise to fellow employees, after two days, sales amounted to more than $740 once the company decided to match the amount of the money raised! THANKYOU GORE! HUA!
You can FEEL the support at Gore. More on the Cambridge Times article.

All proceeds from the sales of "Support Our Troops" items are reinvested directly into morale and welfare programs for CF members and their families. (eg. kit bags for wounded soldiers while in hospital - and to offset the cost to dependents while visiting their loved ones)

She is part of a support group called Families of Canadian Soldiers in Afghanistan. The group promotes awareness in the community and provides support to boost the morale of deployed local military personnel, as well as offering support to those families who have loved ones overseas.

For more information about the support group for

Families of Canadian Soldiers in Afghanistan,
contact: focsia@hotmail.com

Elsewhere, in Cambridge...

The Real Estate Board of Cambridge continues to raise funds in support of Canadian troops in Afghanistan. Residents are encouraged to purchase yellow ribbon car magnets and yellow bracelets that read, "Support Our Troops". Magnets cost $4 and bracelets cost $2.
Proceeds from sales will be used to purchase items on the wish list of men and women overseas. These are items that are not supplied by the military. More information is available by contacting Val Brooks at 740-3690 or the MLS Board Office at 623-3660.
Brooks is also accepting letters of support for troops. To get there in time for Christmas, she must have all letters by next week.
"Way to go VAL! and Real Estate Board of Cambridge! "

In Kitchener...

Staff at Smithson Public School shows support.
November 4th, it was a sea of red as the support flowed through the halls of Smithson School. Staff wore red in support of the troops (as well, one of the soldiers had been a past student at their school). They had an opportunity to sign a card being sent to the troops! Since, the students have been seen wearing red - and when asked why? Their answer: "It's Red Friday of course- it's for our soldiers!" Smithson gets a BIG HUA!

In the Niagara Region...

That next trip to the corner store could mean a lot more than lottery tickets and a carton of milk. All 110 Avondale stores in Niagara region are asking customers to sign a message of support for Canada's 2,300 troops stationed in Afghanistan. Signatures and well-wishes will be collected until Dec. 6, when they will be taped together to form a giant, fold-out Christmas card Canada Post will ship overseas for free. When in the Niagara area, be sure to stop by an Avondale store and send your well wishes to the troops. Read further

Thank you Ann... and thank you Niagara Region!

========================================

In the Ottawa Area:

------- ---------

Canadian Tire in Ottawa and CFRA News Talk 580

As the movement in support of Canadian troops and their families continues to grow, Ottawa's News/Talk Radio station is teaming up with two leading businesses to spread the red wave even further. Starting Thursday, November 8th, all local Canadian Tire dealers will be selling red "support our troops" T-shirts with 100% of net proceeds going to the Petawawa Military Family Resource Centre. The PMFRC www.pmfrc.org exists to "promote and create an environment which fosters social and emotional well-being of our military families in order to support the mission of the Canadian Forces." From the outset, the two military wives who brought the wear red campaign to Petawawa have stressed the non-political nature of their initiative. "No matter what your views on any particular mission," says Lisa Miller, "wearing red is a simple way to say thank you to the soldiers and their families who give up so much in the service of their country." The stylish red T-shirts are high quality red 100% cotton, emblazoned with the message "Courage is being afraid, but going anyway. Support our troops" and were designed and produced by Ottawa's award-winning branding company Promographix. They first appeared at the huge Red Friday rally on Parliament Hill in September, and are now being made available to the general public for the first time. The "Support our Troops" shirts are in stores now for $10 (including tax) available in large and extra-large only at Ottawa area Canadian Tire dealers; however, if you would like to make a large quanitity order, 36 shirts or more, send an email to wearred@promographix.com.
Proceeds go to Petawawa Military Family Resource Centre.
http://www.cfra.com/red-shirt/index.asp

_________________________________________________
Canadians can show their support by:

Wearing Red on Fridays: Wear something red on Fridays to show support for the CF and their families. (red "Support Our Troops" t-shirts available at: www.cfpsa.com/canex

Writing to the Troops: Let Canadian Forces members know they are appreciated by posting a message on the online message board at: www.forces.gc.ca/site/community/messageboard/index_e.asp

Purchasing Canadian Forces sanctioned merchandise (magnets, pins, shirts, caps, etc.) Canex

"If you or your company is doing something in support of the troops and families, let us know. Post your comments below and I'll publish it. Thank you!"