Photo credit : Cplc Martine Morin
My deepest condolences, thoughts and prayers go out today to the family and friends of Master Warrent Officer Mario Mercier, here and overseas. ~ m.m.
.
To view or sign the guestbook for the family of MWO Mercier,
Thursday, August 23, 2007
MWO Mario Mercier August 22, 2007
Message from Her Excellency the Right Honourable Michaelle Jean
August 22nd, 2007
Message from Her Excellency the Right Honourable Michaelle Jean, Governor General of Canada, on the Deaths of Two Canadian Soldiers in Afghanistan
"Today has been a very sombre day. With heavy hearts, we greeted the arrival of Private Simon Longtin's casket and mourned his loss with his family and friends. And then we received more tragic news right there on the tarmac at CFB Trenton: we learned of the deaths of two Canadian soldiers as well as the death of an Afghan interpreter who was traveling with a Canadian television crew. The deadly explosive device they ran over also injured two other Canadian soldiers as well as a Societe Radio-Canada journalist and a cameraman.The enormous sacrifice our soldiers have agreed to make always shocks me. They are ready to lay down their lives and face incredible dangers to ensure the peace and security that are absolutely essential to the development and reconstruction work being carried out in Afghanistan. They deserve our utmost respect and deepest gratitude. I would also like to recognize the demanding and courageous work of the journalists on the ground in Afghanistan; they have the very important mission of keeping everyone in Canada informed as to what is happening over there.My thoughts are with the family, colleagues and friends of the victims. Words cannot express the terrible pain of losing a loved one and I share their sorrow. I also hope that those injured in today's incident make a speedy recovery."Michaelle Jean
Message from Her Excellency the Right Honourable Michaelle Jean, Governor General of Canada, on the Deaths of Two Canadian Soldiers in Afghanistan
"Today has been a very sombre day. With heavy hearts, we greeted the arrival of Private Simon Longtin's casket and mourned his loss with his family and friends. And then we received more tragic news right there on the tarmac at CFB Trenton: we learned of the deaths of two Canadian soldiers as well as the death of an Afghan interpreter who was traveling with a Canadian television crew. The deadly explosive device they ran over also injured two other Canadian soldiers as well as a Societe Radio-Canada journalist and a cameraman.The enormous sacrifice our soldiers have agreed to make always shocks me. They are ready to lay down their lives and face incredible dangers to ensure the peace and security that are absolutely essential to the development and reconstruction work being carried out in Afghanistan. They deserve our utmost respect and deepest gratitude. I would also like to recognize the demanding and courageous work of the journalists on the ground in Afghanistan; they have the very important mission of keeping everyone in Canada informed as to what is happening over there.My thoughts are with the family, colleagues and friends of the victims. Words cannot express the terrible pain of losing a loved one and I share their sorrow. I also hope that those injured in today's incident make a speedy recovery."Michaelle Jean
Roses and Tears
"Simon left us in dignity while proudly serving his country with tremendous honour, amongst his brothers in arms in Afghanistan," the message said. "He left for his mission at peace with himself and his family." ~ Longtin Family
An Honor Guard carries the casket of Private Simon Longtin
to hearse at the Canadian Forces Base Trenton, August 22, 2007.
On a personal note: My son was one of the honour guards in Trenton on this day. An true honour bestowed upon him -bringing home a fallen comrade.
An Honor Guard carries the casket of Private Simon Longtin
to hearse at the Canadian Forces Base Trenton, August 22, 2007.
Pte. Simon Longtin's father Maurice Longtin (centre) and his son Pte. Benoit Longtin (right) make their way to the hearse with Manon Daoust after Pte. Simon Longtin's casket arried in Canada during a repatriation ceremony Wednesday. Photo Credit: Adrian Wyld
TRENTON, Ont. – Benoit Longtin wasn't standing with his grief-stricken family when the remains of his brother, slain Quebec soldier Pte. Simon Longtin, arrived from Afghanistan today.
Instead, he was among the eight uniformed men who carefully hoisted the flag-draped casket on their shoulders and carried it towards a waiting hearse. Their parents, Simon’s girlfriend and about seven other family members, each carrying a single rose, met the plane. Some of the other family wept quietly as a trumpeter played Amazing Grace while his flag-draped coffin was carried from the Hercules 130 transport plane to the hearse. While the other soldiers faces largely remained stoic, Benoit’s lips quivered and tears streamed down his cheeks as he carried the coffin to the black hearse. As the mourners approached the car, a visibly upset Benoit – who recently completed basic training – joined his father at the head of the group, gripping his hand tightly as the tears were finally allowed to fall.
Some of Canada's top civilian and military leaders joined Longtin's family and loved ones to receive the remains of the young soldier, whose death was the first in Afghanistan for his Quebec-based regiment – a province where support is low for the Canadian mission.
Gov. Gen. Michaëlle Jean, Defence Minister Peter MacKay, Chief of Defence Staff General Rick Hillier and former chief of defence staff retired general Maurice Baril, were among the many dignitaries who stood alongside Longtin's family as the body of the 23-year-old member of the Royal 22nd Regiment – known as the Van Doos – arrived at this eastern Ontario military base.
At one point during the repatriation ceremony, Jean put her arm around one of the mourners, offering some comfort as the woman, clad in black, wiped away tears.
The group, which included Longtin's father, Maurice Longtin, his mother, Johanne Larente, and his girlfriend, Debbie Duclos-Bedard, watched tearfully as the casket was carried across the wind-swept tarmac.
Pallbearers stepping slowly to the mournful notes of Amazing Grace. Longtin's stepmother, Manon Daoust, as well as his aunt, uncle and several cousins were also in attendance.
Family members carrying red or white roses gently laid the blooms on top of the casket, some wiping away tears before walking away. His head bent forward and arm outstretched towards his dead son, Maurice Longtin said his silent goodbyes then backed away slowly, sorrow etched across his face.
Longtin, from Longueil, Que., died Sunday after his light-armoured vehicle was hit by a roadside bomb. More than 1,000 soldiers from 37 countries paid tribute to Longtin at a ramp ceremony in Kandahar Airfield on Monday.
On Wednesday, dozens of Canadian soldiers, who military officials said were bound for CFB Gagetown and travelled on the same military aircraft that carried Longtin's remains, poured out of the plane and stood in formation as the casket was lowered to the ground.
Dozens more onlookers, including a number of bikers, gathered outside the razor-wire fence, carrying flags and standing in solemn tribute to the fallen soldier.
In a recent statement, they echoed the comments of Longtin's fellow Van Doos, painting a picture a soldier who embraced military life and his mission in Afghanistan.
On a personal note: My son was one of the honour guards in Trenton on this day. An true honour bestowed upon him -bringing home a fallen comrade.
August 23 - Bless Our Fallen Soldiers
Update:
The identity of one of the two Canadian soldiers killed in Afghanistan today is as follows:- Master Corporal Christian Duchesne, 5e Ambulance de campagne, based out of Valcartier, Quebec.Family members of the soldiers have been notified. At their request, the name of the remaining soldier is being temporarily withheld.
Bless our soldiers and their family and friends, here and in Afghanistan.
Statement from Minister of National Defence:
The Honourable Peter Gordon MacKay, Minister of National Defence and Minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, issued the following statement today on the deaths of two Canadian soldiers and an Afghan interpreter, and the wounding of one soldier and two members of the media:"I am deeply saddened by the loss of two Canadian soldiers who died today in Afghanistan. I would like to extend my condolences to the families and loved ones of Master Corporal Christian Duchesne and of the remaining soldier, whose name is being temporarily withheld at the request of the family. My thoughts and prayers are with them during this time of great sorrow. I also wish a speedy recovery to the soldier injured in this incident.These soldiers were participating in a joint operation to further stabilize an area west of Kandahar City with the aim to strengthen security conditions so that meetings can be held with local elders and authorities to facilitate reconstruction projects. These soldiers were helping to bring back hope to a population that has seen much hardship and turmoil. Their actions have brought hope to this oppressed people.My sympathies also go to the two members of the media injured in today's attack, and to their families. Our condolences also go to the family of the Afghan interpreter who lost his life in the incident.Let us never forget these brave soldiers, whose self-sacrifice served to make life better for others."Master Corporal Christian Duchesne was a member of 5e Ambulance de campagn, Royal 22e Regiment, based out of Valcartier, Quebec.
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
Cameraman seriously injured in attack killing two Cdn. soldiers knew risks
Radio-Canada cameraman Charles Dubois (shown) is seriously injured, and reporter Patrice Roy is suffering from shock but otherwise doing fine.
Photo Credit: CP
Covering a war-torn region comes with risk and a Radio-Canada cameraman injured in a roadside bomb that killed two Canadian soldiers in Afghanistan knew that when he volunteered for the mission.Charles Dubois, a 29-year-old cameraman with time served previously in Afghanistan and Iraq, knew the terrain well. He suffered a serious leg injury and was in stable condition at the Kandahar military hospital on Wednesday.
His colleague, Patrice Roy, 44, a senior reporter, was treated for shock.
The armoured vehicle they were travelling in was hit with an improvised explosive device.
Dubois and Roy were just two-weeks into a six-week stint in Afghanistan, where they were covering the Valcartier, Que., based Royal 22nd Regiment as they take over Canadian military operations in Afghanistan.
Both Dubois and Roy, who are based in Ottawa for the network, volunteered for the assignment, and were well-trained, said Sylvain Lafrance, the French-language network's vice-president.
Lafrance said the network was inundated with calls from journalists as rumours swirled about the two injured journalists.
"Today the emotion was very palpable in all Radio-Canada newsrooms across the country, particularly in Montreal and Ottawa," Lafrance said.
Reporters who have covered Afghanistan say there have been numerous close calls as journalists have travelled in convoys hit by bombs, rocket attacks or with troops as they come under enemy fire.
Former Toronto Star journalist Kathleen Kenna was seriously injured in Afghanistan in March 2002 when the car she was riding in with her husband and photographer Bernard Weil was hit by a grenade.
Despite the risks involved, journalists have an important role to play in Afghanistan, Lafrance said.
"It's the role of the CBC (English and French) to cover those international conflicts, especially when Canada is a part of the conflict," Lafrance said.
"So it's our role to be there and we will continue to be there."
Roy was providing reports to Radio-Canada for its website, television, radio and a blog. Lafrance says Roy will decide in the next day or so whether he will stay in Afghanistan on assignment.
Radio-Canada is also trying to determine whether to send popular anchorman Bernard Derome to Afghanistan on Thursday, where he is scheduled to broadcast live in September.
"We'll talk about it as a team and come to a decision," said Alain Saulnier, general manager of information at Radio-Canada.
"We tell people if ever they have doubts or they want to pull out at the last minute, we'll respect that decision. We'll take the same approach this time."
Saulnier says the decision to embed troops with soldiers is made on a case-by-case basis and Lafrance added its possible the network will change its approach to reporting in Afghanistan.
"We took a decision at one point to no longer send teams to Iraq when we had people there at the beginning of the war," said Lafrance. "In each case, we take that decision with an understanding of the situation and we'll re-evaluate when necessary."
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
Honouring the Fallen Along Highway of Heroes
Repatriation expected around 11 a.m. Wednesday. Aug. 22
As most Canadians know by now, 66 of our troops have been killed fighting in Afghanistan. As most Canadians know by now, our fallen soldiers are returned to the base in Trenton where families and dignitaries gather – about a two-hour drive east of Whitby.
The remains of these brave soldiers, along with their families, are then escorted in solemn procession to Toronto via Highway 401. Many crowds, firefighters and police officers have since been gathering on the overpasses along the route, with flags and signs to pay their respects. What a moving experience. This is an opportunity for fellow Canadians to pay their respects to our fallen soldier and family on our Highway of Heroes. God Bless.
According to Northumberland Today, CFB Trenton 8 Wing is saying the flight carrying fallen Canadian soldier Simon Longtin is expected to land at CFB trenton around 11 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 21. If the flight arrives on time, a repatriation ceremony will take place immediately after landing.
The funeral procession is then expected to leave the base for the Highway 401 journey west to Toronto around noon Wednesday.
Private Longtin , 23, of the Royal 22nd Regiment — the Van Doos — was killed in southern Afghanistan Sunday morning when the light armoured vehicle (LAV) in which he was riding was hit by a roadside bomb. Private Longtin is the 67th Canadian armed forces casulaty since the Canadian mission in Afghanistan began in 2002.
A note from Tim McGrath (father of the wife of Cpl. Jordan Anderson, who was one of the six killed in Afghanistan on July 4, 2007.):
"Our family was in one of those limousines in the motorcade. I would like to say thank you to each and every person on every bridge. As the motorcade pulled out of CFB Trenton and made its way towards Hwy 401, the driver of the limousine said "Watch the overheads." We had no idea! It was comforting, and everyone in the limo was truly impressed. The army Padre riding with the family said " Look, all these people are out here for Jordan, to say Thank You, because to them, he is a hero." That trip down Hwy. 401 was one of the most moving moments. It made us realize that "our heroes" were also heroes to everyday Canadians. We saw children waving flags, we saw old ladies with their hand over their hearts, we saw veterans standing in salute, we saw moms and dads with their children. Some bridges were so full, people were lining up on the ramps on both sides of the highway. We saw the firetrucks on every bridge with firefighters standing in salute, we saw the ambulances, we saw the police cruisers. Close to 50 bridges, a worthy tribute to our heroes! One of the drivers in the limousine took a video as we passed under the overhead bridges, as everyday Canadians took a moment and paid tribute to our Afghanistan heroes. The funeral director gave us a copy of the video. We made sure that the soldier who accompanied our fallen soldiers home, could get a copy to bring back to Afghanistan and show it to the other soldiers. Again, I want to say thank you to each and every person who comes out and supports our soldiers. The families of the soldiers truly appreciate the outpouring of emotion, knowing they have lost a cherished member of the family, but that everyday Canadians appreciate that the soldiers gave the ultimate sacrifice. We hold our head up proudly, just now our eyes are filled with tears."
Tim McGrath / Nanaimo, B.C.
Private Simon Longtin - On His Way Home
Van Doos honour slain soldier in Afghanistan
More than 1,000 soldiers from dozens of countries gathered for a ramp ceremony Monday to honour Pte. Simon Longtin, the first member of Quebec's Van Doos regiment to be killed in Afghanistan.
They stood at attention as the young soldier's casket was lifted aboard a Hercules transport plane, which will arrive in Canada by Tuesday.
Twenty-three-year-old Longtin, of Longueuil, Que., died Sunday when his light armoured vehicle struck a roadside bomb.
About 1,100 members of the Van Doos -- the popular name for Quebec's Royal 22nd Regiment -- are currently serving in Afghanistan.
"Everybody's morale is low but at the same time, like we say, it's motivating us (to continue)," Jean-Philippe Auclair of 3rd Battalion, Royal 22nd Regiment told The Canadian Press.
"For sure, we're never going to forget him and he will always be with us."
Support for the Afghanistan mission is lower in Quebec than any other province, according to recent polls.
Peter MacKay, newly appointed as Canada's minister of defence, spoke to soldiers Monday in Valcartier where the Van Doos are based.
He said Canadians are fighting to make Afghanistan a peaceful place, as the military has done for other war-torn countries around the world.
"Know that this mission is no less important, no less valid and takes no less valour," he said.
Friends of Longtin told CTV Montreal that he believed in the mission and remained optimistic that NATO would achieve its goals in Afghanistan -- a sentiment echoed by Auclair.
"I still believe in the mission and it's motivating me even more to keep going. Simon was aware of the risks, he knew what he was doing and I'm sure he wouldn't regret anything," he said.
Auclair added he wants Quebecers "to be better informed" about Canada's objectives in the country before passing judgment.
Another Van Doos member and friend of Longtin, Scott Bernier, told CTV News that Canadian soldiers will continue to fight for stability in Afghanistan.
"We are here to do a job. And even if Simon's not here, we will continue to do it for him," he said.
Quebec-based military personnel currently make up almost half of Canada's 2,300 troops in Afghanistan.
Auclair is travelling aboard the Hercules transport plane with his friend's casket, and will attend Longtin's funeral.
He said it will be difficult for him to meet with Longtin's family and friends -- especially the slain soldier's girlfriend.
"That's going to be hard. Those two were so much in love," he said
They stood at attention as the young soldier's casket was lifted aboard a Hercules transport plane, which will arrive in Canada by Tuesday.
Twenty-three-year-old Longtin, of Longueuil, Que., died Sunday when his light armoured vehicle struck a roadside bomb.
About 1,100 members of the Van Doos -- the popular name for Quebec's Royal 22nd Regiment -- are currently serving in Afghanistan.
"Everybody's morale is low but at the same time, like we say, it's motivating us (to continue)," Jean-Philippe Auclair of 3rd Battalion, Royal 22nd Regiment told The Canadian Press.
"For sure, we're never going to forget him and he will always be with us."
Support for the Afghanistan mission is lower in Quebec than any other province, according to recent polls.
Peter MacKay, newly appointed as Canada's minister of defence, spoke to soldiers Monday in Valcartier where the Van Doos are based.
He said Canadians are fighting to make Afghanistan a peaceful place, as the military has done for other war-torn countries around the world.
"Know that this mission is no less important, no less valid and takes no less valour," he said.
Friends of Longtin told CTV Montreal that he believed in the mission and remained optimistic that NATO would achieve its goals in Afghanistan -- a sentiment echoed by Auclair.
"I still believe in the mission and it's motivating me even more to keep going. Simon was aware of the risks, he knew what he was doing and I'm sure he wouldn't regret anything," he said.
Auclair added he wants Quebecers "to be better informed" about Canada's objectives in the country before passing judgment.
Another Van Doos member and friend of Longtin, Scott Bernier, told CTV News that Canadian soldiers will continue to fight for stability in Afghanistan.
"We are here to do a job. And even if Simon's not here, we will continue to do it for him," he said.
Quebec-based military personnel currently make up almost half of Canada's 2,300 troops in Afghanistan.
Auclair is travelling aboard the Hercules transport plane with his friend's casket, and will attend Longtin's funeral.
He said it will be difficult for him to meet with Longtin's family and friends -- especially the slain soldier's girlfriend.
"That's going to be hard. Those two were so much in love," he said
He's coming home.
Photo Credit: Cplc Ken Fenner
Col. Juneau said the death will hit the Van Doos hard."It's like losing almost a brother. We're like a big family here," he said. "We will mourn, we will pay our respects to the family and our fallen comrade, and we will carry on with the mission. The important thing for us, the soldiers, the whole team that is deployed here, is the fact that we know the Canadian public is behind the soldiers, the people wearing the uniform," he said.
Sunday, August 19, 2007
Families of Canadian Soldiers in Afghanistan Meeting
MEETING OF
“FAMILIES OF CANADIAN SOLDIERS IN AFGHANISTAN”
ON SATURDAY, AUGUST 25, 2007
6 P.M.
AT THE 404 WING R.C.A.F., MEMBERS’ LOUNGE
510 DUTTON DR., WATERLOO
6:00 to 6:30 p.m. Arrival and Registration. Meet members of the 404.
6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Pot luck picnic and social hour
7:30 p.m. Guest Speaker, Dana Martel, M.S.W.
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
About Our Speaker
Dana Martel is a social worker and Clinical Coordinator with the Operational Stress Injury Clinic, of St. Joseph’s Health Care, Parkwood Hospital, London. He has a special interest in the etiology and treatment of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and comorbid conditions such as mood disorders which affect military personnel and their families.
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. to Kerry Townsen kerrytownson@rogers.com or FOCSIA focsia@hotmail.com
Private Simon Longtin
Pte Simon Longtin was killed on 19 August, 2007 after the vehicle he was traveling in, a LAV III, struck an Improvised Explosive Device (IED). The incident occurred roughly 1:41 am Kandahar time, approximately 20 km West of Kandahar City. The soldier was immediately evacuated from the scene by helicopter for urgent medical attention, but later succumbed to his injuries. At the time of the incident, the Canadian convoy was returning from a Forward Operating Base following a re-supply mission from Kandahar Airfield. Pte Longtin was a member of 3e Bataillon du Royal 22e Régiment, based out of Valcartier, Québec.
"There is no way to comfort those who are grieving today, except to say this soldier was an exceptional Canadian who deserved the gratitude and respect of his nation," said Col. Christian Juneau, Canada's deputy commander in Afghanistan.
Canadian Forces exchanged fire with Taliban insurgents after the blast -- 20 kilometres west of Kandahar City -- but no other Canadian soldiers were injured and no Taliban casualties could be confirmed.
The soldier was evacuated by helicopter to a hospital at Kandahar Airfield, but pronounced dead upon arrival.
Quebec's Royal 22nd Regiment, known in English Canada as the Van Doos, took command of Canadian military operations here on Aug. 1.
Political observers will watch to see how the news reverberates in Quebec, where support for the war is the lowest of any province.
Col. Juneau said the death will hit the Van Doos hard.
"It's like losing almost a brother. We're like a big family here," he said. "We will mourn, we will pay our respects to the family and our fallen comrade, and we will carry on with the mission."
Prayers and love go to the friends and family here and overseas of Private Simon Longtin.
It is the second time in a week that Canadian soldiers have been wounded or killed along Foster Road, a well-travelled supply route to forward operating base Masum Ghar.
Five soldiers were lightly injured last Sunday by an IED along the same road. After that attack, the military dispatched engineers to survey the route for IEDs.
The engineers checked for bombs in drainage culverts where insurgents are believed to have planted the bomb used in last Sunday's attack.
At one point, engineers discovered a Chinese-made mortar in one of the culverts. They detonated the bomb safely, setting off a thud that echoed through the nearby mountains.
Col. Juneau said Canadian troops will step up surveillance of the route. "However, with the size of our operation, it's quite difficult to have eyes everywhere. ... You travel on the road, (and) the next night they can insert themselves and install an IED."
Two soldiers incurred minor injuries Friday after their armoured vehicle rolled over an IED while traveling in a supply convoy about 30 kilometres west of Kandahar City.
The Muslim holy period Ramadan begins in a few weeks. On Saturday, the Taliban released a statement from their reclusive leader, Mullah Omar. It called on Afghans to wage a jihad against foreign "invaders."
There are roughly 2,500 Canadian troops stationed in Afghanistan as part of the NATO-led coalition that is attempting to secure and rebuild the country.
To View or Sign the Guestbook for the family of Pte Longtin,
Sunday, August 12, 2007
My Postings
Photo by: m.m.Photo of my mom's favourite rose.
"No one has anything like it." , she'd say.
I agree mom- it was grown with your love.
As you may have realized, I have not been posting as regularly as I have in the past.I have been dealing with a family crisis. So, please bear with me.
As I think of last night, tears well up in my eyes.
As I stood vigilant with my sisters over my mother's bed, we notice movement in the hallway.
There standing in the doorway wearing a Kandahar Tim Hortons cap and holding a beautiful bouquet of flowers was my son. A ran to him, the hug meant so much. His friend had brought him down, driving the many hours for him to see his grandmother. A small smile and a word murmurred from my mother- "nice" and she fell back into her deep sleep.
"Thank you M. and K. ox"
I love you Mom
MY HERO
He cannot fly
He does not leap over tall buildings
Nor travel at lightning speeds
He has no “super powers”
But he does fight merciless enemies everyday
He defends those who cannot defend themselves
Protects the innocent and saves lives
He does not have a secret lair…..
He is constantly watching his back
He cannot stop a bullet….
But his flesh will take one easily
He has no secret identity ….
But few know his family’s sacrifice
My Hero does not wear a cape
He wears combat boots.
.
Photo owned by: Military Mom taken on day of deployment.
Saturday, August 11, 2007
Canada's Government Welcomes Arrival of First C-17 Aircraft
August 11, 2007
Canadian Defence Minister Gordon O'Connor (C) stands with Lt-Gen Angus Watt (L), Chief of Air Staff, and Josee Verner, Minister of International Cooperation, in front of of C-17 Globemaster III strategic airlift in Abbotsford, British Columbia Aug. 11, 2007. The Canadian military took delivery of the first C-17 and the aircraft was presented at the Abbotsford Airshow. ( Photo Credit: Xinhua/Reuters)
The Honourable Gordon O'Connor, Minister of National Defence, today joined the Honourable Josee Verner, Minister of International Cooperation, and Lieutenant-General Angus Watt, Chief of the Air Staff at the Abbotsford International Airshow to welcome the arrival of Canada's first C-17 Globemaster III strategic lift aircraft."Canada's New Government has long recognized the importance of acquiring our own strategic airlift aircrafts to allow us to quickly deploy equipment, supplies or passengers when and where needed around world, and without having to rely on our allies or contractors," said Minister O'Connor. "Our first C-17 will soon be used for operations in support of humanitarian relief, disasters including floods or forest fires, or to a theatre of operations. Canada's New Government is proud to be fulfilling our commitment with its arrival."The strategic airlift capacity of the C-17 will ensure the Canadian Forces can quickly move heavy equipment, supplies or passengers over long distances, when and where needed in Canada or overseas.Generators, water purification equipment, medical equipment and/or food supplies are examples of some of the life-saving cargo that strategic airlift can deliver to Canadians, or to those in need around the world, in emergency situations.The Canadian Forces Disaster Assistance Response Team (DART), for example, will use strategic lift to great advantage by deploying troops and equipment faster to alleviate suffering in those parts of the world afflicted by crisis due to natural disasters."Canadians have always responded generously to international appeals for assistance in times of emergency and disaster" said Minister Verner. "With the arrival of the C-17 and working in cooperation with the Canadian Forces, we will be able to quickly answer a variety of humanitarian needs around the world - contributing to a more secure, equitable, and prosperous world.""Here in Canada, this aircraft can help to bring stability to communities which have been struck by crisis situations," said the Honourable Stockwell Day, Minister of Public Safety. "Like never before we'll be able to quickly provide relief to crises that hit our own communities, such as floods, ice storms and forest fires.""This aircraft represents the Canadian Forces' first-ever independent strategic airlift capability," said Gen. Hillier. "The C-17 will ensure that we can quickly move our men and women with their life-saving equipment to reach those in need when and wherever they need us most.""In a country as big as Canada, strategic airlift is essential," Lt.-Gen. Watt. "This capability will allow us to reach out to Canadians in domestic emergencies anywhere, anytime. It is also a means for Canada to provide a stronger and faster response in times of international crisis."In June 2006, Canada's New Government announced plans to procure strategic airlift, and is now proud to deliver on this promise for the Canadian Forces and Canadians. The Government continues to provide value for taxpayers' dollars by working effectively and efficiently on all of its current equipment initiatives and infrastructure investments.The C-17's home base will be at 8 Wing / CFB Trenton, Ontario.Additional information on the C-17 and Strategic Airlift can be found at:Air Force C-17 News site: http://www.airforce.forces.gc.ca/site/equip/c17/news_e.asp
Arrival of Canada's First CC-177 in Trenton
Air Force Arrival Ceremony Marking Arrival of CC-177
Where: Home base at 8 Wing / CFB Trenton
Time: 12:30 p.m. EDT
Date: Sunday, August 12, 2007
The Arrival Ceremony will include speeches from Lieutenant-General Angus Watt, Chief of the Air Staff and Colonel Michael Hood, 8 Wing Commander.After the ceremony, Lt.-Gen. Watt and Col. Hood will conduct a 20-minute media availability, along with aircrew and members of 429 (Transport) Squadron - the CC-177 squadron.
Photo identification will be required to gain base access.
On February 1, 2007 the Canadian government awarded the contract for four C-17s for delivery beginning in August 2007. Similar to Australia, Canada will be granted airframes originally slated for the U.S. Air Force, to accelerate delivery. To reduce costs, the Canadian government is purchasing the airframes from Boeing, while purchasing all the Pratt & Whitney engines from a USAF supply. This emulates the USAF approach developed in recent years to split the purchase in order to reduce costs from integrating the engines with the airframe.
Manufacturer: Boeing Crew/
Passengers: Crew: 2 pilots, 1 loadmasterCapcity: 102 troops or 36 litters and 54 ambulator patients
Payload: 74, 785 kg (164,900 lb) distributed over 18 463L master pallets or a mix of pattetized cargo and vehicles
Power Plant: 4× Pratt & Whitney F117-PW-100 turbofans, 40,440 lbf (180 kN)
Performance: Max Speed: 830 km/h (520 mph),
Cruise Speed: 720 km/h (450 mph)
Range: 4,400 km (2,800 mi)
Sevice Ceiling: 13,700 m (45,000 ft)
Weights: Gross: 152,616 lb (69,226 kg)
Cargo Load: 70,547 lb (32,000 kg)
Dimensions: Wing Span: 169.8 ft (51.75 m) Length: 174 ft (53 m) Height: 55.1 ft (16.8 m) Wing Area: 3,800 ft² (353 m²)
Armament: None
Friday, August 03, 2007
Quebec-Based Troops in Afghanistan Can't Fathom Antiwar Sentiment Back Home
Personal note: We have to remember - they are not Quebec Soldiers, but Canadian Soldiers and we should let them know that we in Canada support them for their long days and nights and all their hard work and efforts. I know .. I stand behind not only them and but their parents and family members. Godspeed.
August 3, 2007 -
As reported to Canadian Press
SHAWALI KOT, Afghanistan (CP) - Canadian soldier Francis Archambault says he couldn't believe what he was hearing in a conversation he had before he left Quebec for Afghanistan.
"Somebody who's educated, who has diplomas galore, told me there would be no war in the world if people like me didn't exist," Archambault, 23, said in an interview with The Canadian Press.
"It really shocked me to hear that from someone who should know better."
Archambault and other Quebec-based soldiers in Afghanistan expressed frustration and exasperation with the widespread opposition in their home province to Canada's military mission in the country.
One poll suggested 70 per cent of Quebecers were opposed to the continued presence of Canadian soldiers in the war-torn land, while some members of the national assembly refused to stand up when several soldiers visited the legislature earlier this year.
Archambault said people who are against the mission are misguided when they accuse Prime Minister Stephen Harper's Conservatives of wanting to endorse U.S. foreign policy just to stay in the good books of the Bush administration.
"That has nothing to do with it," he said. "Canada is not getting a lot out of its presence here. It costs lives and it costs money but we're trying to give a chance to people who need help.
"It's probably the biggest thing I'll do in my life."
Canada has about 2,500 troops in Afghanistan as part of the NATO force supporting the Afghan government. In the new rotation, most of them will be from CFB Valcartier, near Quebec City.
Canada is slated to leave Afghanistan in February 2009 and Harper has said extending the mission would require the consensus of Parliament.
Master Cpl. David Martel, one of the Van Doos charged with patrolling the Shawali Kot district in southeastern Afghanistan, said the attitude of some people is disheartening.
"You come here because you believe in what you do," Martel said.
"You want to provide security and help people improve their lot, while back home people aren't very receptive to that. They say you're just off to kill people."
Sgt. Steve Dufour said people are entitled to their opinion but believes the Canadian mission is not understood and is often misinterpreted.
"I spoke to one student who was against the mission," he said. "I told her 'In Canada, does anyone prevent you from going to school and getting an education?' Well, that's what it's like here (in Afghanistan)."
To read about our soldiers' progress being made in Afghanistan click here.
A big HUA to our troops!
August 3, 2007 -
As reported to Canadian Press
SHAWALI KOT, Afghanistan (CP) - Canadian soldier Francis Archambault says he couldn't believe what he was hearing in a conversation he had before he left Quebec for Afghanistan.
"Somebody who's educated, who has diplomas galore, told me there would be no war in the world if people like me didn't exist," Archambault, 23, said in an interview with The Canadian Press.
"It really shocked me to hear that from someone who should know better."
Archambault and other Quebec-based soldiers in Afghanistan expressed frustration and exasperation with the widespread opposition in their home province to Canada's military mission in the country.
One poll suggested 70 per cent of Quebecers were opposed to the continued presence of Canadian soldiers in the war-torn land, while some members of the national assembly refused to stand up when several soldiers visited the legislature earlier this year.
Archambault said people who are against the mission are misguided when they accuse Prime Minister Stephen Harper's Conservatives of wanting to endorse U.S. foreign policy just to stay in the good books of the Bush administration.
"That has nothing to do with it," he said. "Canada is not getting a lot out of its presence here. It costs lives and it costs money but we're trying to give a chance to people who need help.
"It's probably the biggest thing I'll do in my life."
Canada has about 2,500 troops in Afghanistan as part of the NATO force supporting the Afghan government. In the new rotation, most of them will be from CFB Valcartier, near Quebec City.
Canada is slated to leave Afghanistan in February 2009 and Harper has said extending the mission would require the consensus of Parliament.
Master Cpl. David Martel, one of the Van Doos charged with patrolling the Shawali Kot district in southeastern Afghanistan, said the attitude of some people is disheartening.
"You come here because you believe in what you do," Martel said.
"You want to provide security and help people improve their lot, while back home people aren't very receptive to that. They say you're just off to kill people."
Sgt. Steve Dufour said people are entitled to their opinion but believes the Canadian mission is not understood and is often misinterpreted.
"I spoke to one student who was against the mission," he said. "I told her 'In Canada, does anyone prevent you from going to school and getting an education?' Well, that's what it's like here (in Afghanistan)."
To read about our soldiers' progress being made in Afghanistan click here.
A big HUA to our troops!
"Goodbye, my love"
Candlelight vigil for slain soldier
By TRACY MCLAUGHLIN,
By TRACY MCLAUGHLIN,
SPECIAL TO SUN MEDIA
BRACEBRIDGE -- With tears streaming down her cheeks, the mother of a fallen soldier whispered one last "goodbye, my love" as she lit a candle for her son.
It should have been his birthday party, but instead it was a candlelight vigil Wednesday in honour of Trooper Darryl Caswell, who would have turned 26 the day before. Caswell was killed in a roadside bomb attack in Afghanistan June 11.
"He was a hero," military padre Lee Lambert told a small crowd gathered at the Memorial Gardens in Bracebridge, where Darlene Cushman, Caswell's mother, lives.
"He sacrificed his life for a people he never even knew so that they could have a better life," Lambert said.
As he spoke about her son, the mother gently smiled, but the tears continued.
"Darryl was not there to conquer, or dictate, or plant the Canadian flag," he said. "He was there to allow the people to be Afghani people, as is their birthright. The Taliban may not have wanted him there, but the people did. And that's what Darryl died for."
As bagpipes played, Cushman clutched hands with her daughter, Jolene, and Cpl. Wade Wick, who was the gunner of the Coyote armoured vehicle when it was hit in the deadly attack.
"He was a great guy. He was my buddy," Wick said. He joked about how Caswell was almost child-like when he received a care package from his mom with flavoured drink mix he would share with the soldiers to add to warm, over-treated drinking water.
"In 40-degree temperatures, it was like a Christmas present," Wick said.
BRACEBRIDGE -- With tears streaming down her cheeks, the mother of a fallen soldier whispered one last "goodbye, my love" as she lit a candle for her son.
It should have been his birthday party, but instead it was a candlelight vigil Wednesday in honour of Trooper Darryl Caswell, who would have turned 26 the day before. Caswell was killed in a roadside bomb attack in Afghanistan June 11.
"He was a hero," military padre Lee Lambert told a small crowd gathered at the Memorial Gardens in Bracebridge, where Darlene Cushman, Caswell's mother, lives.
"He sacrificed his life for a people he never even knew so that they could have a better life," Lambert said.
As he spoke about her son, the mother gently smiled, but the tears continued.
"Darryl was not there to conquer, or dictate, or plant the Canadian flag," he said. "He was there to allow the people to be Afghani people, as is their birthright. The Taliban may not have wanted him there, but the people did. And that's what Darryl died for."
As bagpipes played, Cushman clutched hands with her daughter, Jolene, and Cpl. Wade Wick, who was the gunner of the Coyote armoured vehicle when it was hit in the deadly attack.
"He was a great guy. He was my buddy," Wick said. He joked about how Caswell was almost child-like when he received a care package from his mom with flavoured drink mix he would share with the soldiers to add to warm, over-treated drinking water.
"In 40-degree temperatures, it was like a Christmas present," Wick said.
"Happy Birthday Trooper Caswell"
God bless you.
Thursday, August 02, 2007
CFB Shilo Soldier Charged in Shooting of Fellow Soldier During Training
August 2, 2007
SHILO, MANITOBA - A soldier from the 2nd Battalion, Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry (2 PPCLI) was charged here today by the Canadian Forces National Investigation Service (CFNIS) in relation to the shooting and injuring of a fellow soldier while conducting weapons training here in May.
Cpl Dylan Nash, was charged with one count of Criminal Negligence Causing Bodily Harm, pursuant to Section 221 of the Criminal Code, one count of Careless Use of a Firearm, pursuant to Section 86 of the Criminal Code and one count of Negligent Performance of Duty, contrary to Section 124 of the National Defence Act.The CFNIS is an independent Military Police unit with a mandate to investigate serious and sensitive matters in relation to National Defence property, DND employees and CF personnel serving in Canada and abroad.
SHILO, MANITOBA - A soldier from the 2nd Battalion, Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry (2 PPCLI) was charged here today by the Canadian Forces National Investigation Service (CFNIS) in relation to the shooting and injuring of a fellow soldier while conducting weapons training here in May.
Cpl Dylan Nash, was charged with one count of Criminal Negligence Causing Bodily Harm, pursuant to Section 221 of the Criminal Code, one count of Careless Use of a Firearm, pursuant to Section 86 of the Criminal Code and one count of Negligent Performance of Duty, contrary to Section 124 of the National Defence Act.The CFNIS is an independent Military Police unit with a mandate to investigate serious and sensitive matters in relation to National Defence property, DND employees and CF personnel serving in Canada and abroad.
Wednesday, August 01, 2007
Roto 3 is Coming Home
On a personal note, I'd like to say thank you to my son who took a moment out of his busy day on base to phone and wish me to have a nice day. Just the sound of his voice makes me smile. "Thank you son.. I love you."
Roto 3 - "Welcome Home!"
As a Canadian Forces Airbus carrying soldiers returning from Afghanistan landed, two-year-old Noah Burke pressed his face against the window at the Fredericton International Airport.
"Daddy come," he said.
The boy smiled, turning quickly to glance at his mother, Dale.
Noah's father, Cpl. Chris Burke, was among the first soldiers from Canadian Forces Base Gagetown to return home Tuesday night after a dangerous six-month mission in Afghanistan.
"I'm just overwhelmed with emotions," Dale Burke said earlier in the evening, shortly before two CF-18 fighter jets raced overhead, catching the attention of everyone in the airport as the military passenger jet landed.
"I'm excited, it's surreal," she said.
After six months of waiting, she still couldn't believe the day had arrived.
"I know it's the day. I know this is the 31st of July. But I still don't believe that this is it."
She later spotted a glimpse of her husband through the window as he was processed at customs.
As the sun set, about 20 soldiers dressed in desert fatigues disembarked from the plane shortly after 9 p.m. to go through customs.
Some boarded the plane again to continue on to Canadian Forces Base Trenton, located in Ontario. Local soldiers were transported to CFB Gagetown where they were reunited with loved ones at the base gymnasium.
About a dozen people watched from the airport's fence as the soldiers took their first steps on Canadian soil in months.
It's a scene that will repeat itself every second day until September as the military moves more than 2,000 soldiers out of Afghanistan and rotates in a new group from CFB Valcartier in Quebec.
A flight with 58 soldiers is due to arrive Thursday evening to larger fanfare.
A total of 1,150 members with The Second Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment (2RCR) battle group, were in Afghanistan.
Approximately 650 of them were from CFB Gagetown.
It's a homecoming that has been tinged with sadness though. Seven of the soldiers from CFB Gagetown were killed in Afghanistan.
Outside the airport, Muriel Aiken tied bows on the signposts lining the route back to the base.
"We've been told how much this yellow-ribbon campaign has meant, and I felt this was a good way to show support to our soldiers as they return," she said.
Almost every pole, post and fence in Oromocto has been decorated with a yellow ribbon since the mission began.
"It's a huge sense of relief," said Oromocto Mayor Fay Tidd.
"When the troops left, there was almost an eerie silence around.
People weren't laughing and talking as much ... Mothers and their children were in the stores shopping, but everything was quite subdued."
Lee Windsor, deputy director of the Gregg Centre for the Study of War and Society, said the soldiers have plenty to be proud of.
Windsor travelled to Afghanistan earlier this year for a first-hand view of the work Canadian soldiers were carrying out on the ground.
"This is the one where we finally have seen Canadian soldiers establish presence and bring security to a large portion of the main agriculture areas outside the city," Windsor said.
"Before this rotation, Canadian soldiers were confined to a very small area around Kandahar city."
While much of the media coverage out of Afghanistan has focused on the number of casualties sustained, he said, the real picture includes advancement in Afghanistan that hadn't been witnessed until this rotation.
The first two rotations were involved in heavy fighting in a surprise attack from about 1,500 Taliban soldiers.
This impeded, almost halted, the Canadian army's security and reconstruction efforts.
But this rotation has achieved stability not only in the city, but in many areas of Kandahar province, he said.
Former CFB Gagetown commander Ryan Jestin agrees. He said the progress was evident when he visited the troops a few months ago.
"I saw kids running around the streets in Kandahar city, I saw a lot of people that were working with Canadians on development," Jestin said. "I think the guys will take a great deal of pride in really giving that pillar of stability to the province."
However, by moving farther out of the city, the troops exposed themselves to more danger, Windsor said.
"They were far more at risk than other rotations have been, especially to improvised explosive devices and ambushes," said Windsor.
Roto 3 - "Welcome Home!"
Soldiers disembark a military transport at Fredericton Airport Tuesday night.
The first group of soldiers were returning to CFB Gagetown from Afghanistan.
Credit:Ray Bourgeois
As a Canadian Forces Airbus carrying soldiers returning from Afghanistan landed, two-year-old Noah Burke pressed his face against the window at the Fredericton International Airport.
"Daddy come," he said.
The boy smiled, turning quickly to glance at his mother, Dale.
Noah's father, Cpl. Chris Burke, was among the first soldiers from Canadian Forces Base Gagetown to return home Tuesday night after a dangerous six-month mission in Afghanistan.
"I'm just overwhelmed with emotions," Dale Burke said earlier in the evening, shortly before two CF-18 fighter jets raced overhead, catching the attention of everyone in the airport as the military passenger jet landed.
"I'm excited, it's surreal," she said.
After six months of waiting, she still couldn't believe the day had arrived.
"I know it's the day. I know this is the 31st of July. But I still don't believe that this is it."
She later spotted a glimpse of her husband through the window as he was processed at customs.
As the sun set, about 20 soldiers dressed in desert fatigues disembarked from the plane shortly after 9 p.m. to go through customs.
Some boarded the plane again to continue on to Canadian Forces Base Trenton, located in Ontario. Local soldiers were transported to CFB Gagetown where they were reunited with loved ones at the base gymnasium.
About a dozen people watched from the airport's fence as the soldiers took their first steps on Canadian soil in months.
It's a scene that will repeat itself every second day until September as the military moves more than 2,000 soldiers out of Afghanistan and rotates in a new group from CFB Valcartier in Quebec.
A flight with 58 soldiers is due to arrive Thursday evening to larger fanfare.
A total of 1,150 members with The Second Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment (2RCR) battle group, were in Afghanistan.
Approximately 650 of them were from CFB Gagetown.
It's a homecoming that has been tinged with sadness though. Seven of the soldiers from CFB Gagetown were killed in Afghanistan.
Outside the airport, Muriel Aiken tied bows on the signposts lining the route back to the base.
"We've been told how much this yellow-ribbon campaign has meant, and I felt this was a good way to show support to our soldiers as they return," she said.
Almost every pole, post and fence in Oromocto has been decorated with a yellow ribbon since the mission began.
"It's a huge sense of relief," said Oromocto Mayor Fay Tidd.
"When the troops left, there was almost an eerie silence around.
People weren't laughing and talking as much ... Mothers and their children were in the stores shopping, but everything was quite subdued."
Lee Windsor, deputy director of the Gregg Centre for the Study of War and Society, said the soldiers have plenty to be proud of.
Windsor travelled to Afghanistan earlier this year for a first-hand view of the work Canadian soldiers were carrying out on the ground.
"This is the one where we finally have seen Canadian soldiers establish presence and bring security to a large portion of the main agriculture areas outside the city," Windsor said.
"Before this rotation, Canadian soldiers were confined to a very small area around Kandahar city."
While much of the media coverage out of Afghanistan has focused on the number of casualties sustained, he said, the real picture includes advancement in Afghanistan that hadn't been witnessed until this rotation.
The first two rotations were involved in heavy fighting in a surprise attack from about 1,500 Taliban soldiers.
This impeded, almost halted, the Canadian army's security and reconstruction efforts.
But this rotation has achieved stability not only in the city, but in many areas of Kandahar province, he said.
Former CFB Gagetown commander Ryan Jestin agrees. He said the progress was evident when he visited the troops a few months ago.
"I saw kids running around the streets in Kandahar city, I saw a lot of people that were working with Canadians on development," Jestin said. "I think the guys will take a great deal of pride in really giving that pillar of stability to the province."
However, by moving farther out of the city, the troops exposed themselves to more danger, Windsor said.
"They were far more at risk than other rotations have been, especially to improvised explosive devices and ambushes," said Windsor.
Canada's Van Doos on Patrol
23 July 2007
Kandahar Province, Afghanistan
Photo by: Cpl Dan Pop
Major Jason Langelier, the Rotation 4 (Roto 4) Force Protection Company (FP Coy) Commander, conducts his first combat patrol in the outskirts of Kandahar City. This combat patrol is the first one conducted by Roto 4 personnel from the Royal 22e Regiment based at CFB Valcartier, Quebec.
The Infantry Company is also known as the Force Protection Company (FP Coy). The Force Protection (FP) Company, made up of personnel from the Royal 22nd Regiment in Valcartier, Quebec, is responsible for the security aspects of the KPRT. Their duties include camp protection, convoy escort, reconnaissance, mapping of regions, and support to Whole of Government operations and activities.
The Royal 22e Régiment is an infantry regiment, and the most famous francophone organization of the Canadian Forces. The regiment comprises three Regular Force battalions, two Primary Reserve battalions, and a band, making it the largest regiment in the army. The ceremonial home of the regiment is La Citadelle in Quebec City, where the regimental museum is housed. The regiment is nicknamed the Van Doos, a corruption of vingt-deux, French for "twenty-two." The regiment's RHQ is located in Quebec City, with all three of its regular battalions stationed at various bases in the province of Quebec. The regiment serves as the "local" infantry regiment for Quebec. For more on the Van Doos click here.
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
TUAV Flight- Roto 2
Corporal Aaron Dycke recently returned to 19 Wing Comox after a six-month tour as a Safety Systems Technician packing parachutes for Tactical Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (TUAV) in Kandahar, Afghanistan. Here is a story Cpl Dycke wrote for the "Totem Times" about his experience. Welcome Home Cpl Dycke.
Our tour in Kandahar has been a time I shall never forget. I had the distinct pleasure of serving with the Tactical Uninhabited Aerial Vehicle (TUAV) flight as a part of the Battle Group of Op Athena, Task Force 3-06 at Kandahar Air Field (KAF) in Afghanistan.
The flights are comprised of CF members from all three elements with the most current flight, roto three, being made up of members from 403 Helicopter Operational Training Squadron and the 4th Air Defence Regiment both from CFB Gagetown. I volunteered for the job because of my experience and qualifications packing parachutes.
Our job was to maintain visual surveillance for the troops on the ground with a large remote control aircraft. Most of us had trained together a year before our tour started and developed a strong friendship before even landing in this theater of operations. Air Force, Army, Navy, French and English, men and women, with such a diverse group we have worked together as a seamless team with very few faults or problems.
At first I was a little nervous but mostly excited about coming here. But as soon as we got off of the aircraft there was a small party of people to welcome and help us into the KAF routine. When I first volunteered for this tour I didn't really realize how important Canada's role here was until that first welcome speech given to us by an American General. He stated that "Having a Canadian face on this conflict will make the rest of the world realize just how vital it is to secure this country and establish their new government. Because the world recognizes your ethical and moral values and that you won't enter or be pushed into a conflict unless you truly believe in its goal." Hearing this from a General from another country emphasized this statement even more.
We started our training in September of 2005 and spent some time at Canadian Forces Base Wainwright, then CFB Suffield and then more training at CFB Edmonton. That was when I started to grow fond of the "field life" that I had missed out on at an Air Force base. Most of our TUAV Flight is from CFB Edmonton and I think that is where I learned the most. Not only the pre-deployment training which taught soldiering skills relevant to the mission, but also taught us about our team members. Spending time with them we had some dinners and barbeques and got to know each others' families. It takes a certain kind of person to be a military spouse. Strong and supportive doesn't even begin to describe them. We all had to spend a lot of time away from our families - some of our guys have been in KAF for nine months!
I can't speak for everyone but from my perspective, (and I'm sure not everyone will be able to understand this) but it brought my wife and I even closer, and made me realize the things I have to change about myself to be a better father and husband. I also realized, (which I'm sure thousands did before me) that it's not easy being a husband, father, and a soldier. But we just keep reminding ourselves that what we do here protects them at home. Having a wife that grew up as a "base brat" helped since she already had a firm understanding of the military life since her father and grandfather were both in the military. Knowing there is a strong support network at home for your family also helps alleviate the separation anxieties.
Now I'm not going to throw tales at you that we lived in holes in the ground and ate bugs and stuff like that. We stayed in semi-permanent shelters, rarely left the base but lived by the pager waiting to be called to work. We lived with the Battle Group and watched them come and go. Now that is a hard life which I can't even begin imagine! These men and women go out on the front lines for around a month at a time. They have bottles of water for their showers, eat field rations, and then they come back for a day or two, have a hot shower, do their laundry, have a warm meal and then go back out.
Corporal Aaron Dycke receiving the General Campaign Star from Brigadier-General Timothy Grant at Kandahar Air Field, Afghanistan in February 2007. CREDIT: DND
Listening to them talk you have to admire their courage and bravery. I remember hearing one saying to his buddy in passing "man, I didn't think I was coming home from this one." Personally I felt that I wasn't doing enough to help them but whenever I mentioned I was with TUAV I always got a big "thank you!" from them. When I heard that because we where there, watching, flying over head they could sleep easier at night just hearing the sound of our engines knowing someone was watching out for them and they knew they weren't alone it made me feel like my little contribution was worth it.
I'll admit there where some times when we first came here when we got rocketed or mortared that I worried for my mortality but after a month we became desensitized to them. And they became more of a nuisance than anything. We'd hear the explosion, have to stop work, get our gear on go to the bunkers and sign in and wait for the all clear and then go back to work. But it's these protocols that keep us alive. Frustrated at times with the crazy hours of operations or trying to order parts and living on mess food we all developed an odd sense of humor that was unique in our own. One has to have a dark sense of humor to keep their sanity in check in a place like this.
All in all it was an amazing experience that I wouldn't have traded for anything. I learned a lot about myself and my fellow man, got a new found respect for life, deepened my love of our country, and I know this may sound cheesy to some but after years of absence at my own fault I even found God again. I also had some amazing instructions in patience and tolerance and feel that I have matured a great deal. This... is the military life.
A TUAV launches from its platform
at Kandahar Air Field last November.
CREDIT: MCPL YVES GEMUS
Our tour in Kandahar has been a time I shall never forget. I had the distinct pleasure of serving with the Tactical Uninhabited Aerial Vehicle (TUAV) flight as a part of the Battle Group of Op Athena, Task Force 3-06 at Kandahar Air Field (KAF) in Afghanistan.
The flights are comprised of CF members from all three elements with the most current flight, roto three, being made up of members from 403 Helicopter Operational Training Squadron and the 4th Air Defence Regiment both from CFB Gagetown. I volunteered for the job because of my experience and qualifications packing parachutes.
Our job was to maintain visual surveillance for the troops on the ground with a large remote control aircraft. Most of us had trained together a year before our tour started and developed a strong friendship before even landing in this theater of operations. Air Force, Army, Navy, French and English, men and women, with such a diverse group we have worked together as a seamless team with very few faults or problems.
At first I was a little nervous but mostly excited about coming here. But as soon as we got off of the aircraft there was a small party of people to welcome and help us into the KAF routine. When I first volunteered for this tour I didn't really realize how important Canada's role here was until that first welcome speech given to us by an American General. He stated that "Having a Canadian face on this conflict will make the rest of the world realize just how vital it is to secure this country and establish their new government. Because the world recognizes your ethical and moral values and that you won't enter or be pushed into a conflict unless you truly believe in its goal." Hearing this from a General from another country emphasized this statement even more.
Cpl Dycke's TUAV Flight served in Afghanistan
between August 2006 and February 2007.
CREDIT: SUBMITTED
We started our training in September of 2005 and spent some time at Canadian Forces Base Wainwright, then CFB Suffield and then more training at CFB Edmonton. That was when I started to grow fond of the "field life" that I had missed out on at an Air Force base. Most of our TUAV Flight is from CFB Edmonton and I think that is where I learned the most. Not only the pre-deployment training which taught soldiering skills relevant to the mission, but also taught us about our team members. Spending time with them we had some dinners and barbeques and got to know each others' families. It takes a certain kind of person to be a military spouse. Strong and supportive doesn't even begin to describe them. We all had to spend a lot of time away from our families - some of our guys have been in KAF for nine months!
I can't speak for everyone but from my perspective, (and I'm sure not everyone will be able to understand this) but it brought my wife and I even closer, and made me realize the things I have to change about myself to be a better father and husband. I also realized, (which I'm sure thousands did before me) that it's not easy being a husband, father, and a soldier. But we just keep reminding ourselves that what we do here protects them at home. Having a wife that grew up as a "base brat" helped since she already had a firm understanding of the military life since her father and grandfather were both in the military. Knowing there is a strong support network at home for your family also helps alleviate the separation anxieties.
Now I'm not going to throw tales at you that we lived in holes in the ground and ate bugs and stuff like that. We stayed in semi-permanent shelters, rarely left the base but lived by the pager waiting to be called to work. We lived with the Battle Group and watched them come and go. Now that is a hard life which I can't even begin imagine! These men and women go out on the front lines for around a month at a time. They have bottles of water for their showers, eat field rations, and then they come back for a day or two, have a hot shower, do their laundry, have a warm meal and then go back out.
Corporal Aaron Dycke receiving the General Campaign Star from Brigadier-General Timothy Grant at Kandahar Air Field, Afghanistan in February 2007. CREDIT: DND
Listening to them talk you have to admire their courage and bravery. I remember hearing one saying to his buddy in passing "man, I didn't think I was coming home from this one." Personally I felt that I wasn't doing enough to help them but whenever I mentioned I was with TUAV I always got a big "thank you!" from them. When I heard that because we where there, watching, flying over head they could sleep easier at night just hearing the sound of our engines knowing someone was watching out for them and they knew they weren't alone it made me feel like my little contribution was worth it.
I'll admit there where some times when we first came here when we got rocketed or mortared that I worried for my mortality but after a month we became desensitized to them. And they became more of a nuisance than anything. We'd hear the explosion, have to stop work, get our gear on go to the bunkers and sign in and wait for the all clear and then go back to work. But it's these protocols that keep us alive. Frustrated at times with the crazy hours of operations or trying to order parts and living on mess food we all developed an odd sense of humor that was unique in our own. One has to have a dark sense of humor to keep their sanity in check in a place like this.
All in all it was an amazing experience that I wouldn't have traded for anything. I learned a lot about myself and my fellow man, got a new found respect for life, deepened my love of our country, and I know this may sound cheesy to some but after years of absence at my own fault I even found God again. I also had some amazing instructions in patience and tolerance and feel that I have matured a great deal. This... is the military life.
Ribbons Support Troops, Not Politics
Editorial - Friday, July 27, 2007
The Sault Star
We agree, but this isn't the case with yellow ribbons recently placed on Sault Ste. Marie firetrucks. Wishing the best for our men and women in harm's way is a universal sentiment. Or at least it should be. If you believe we should pull out of Afghanistan now, or if you believe we should double our efforts there, you can still support or troops. You can vote Conservative, Liberal, NDP, Green or whatever and still support our troops. Anyone who suggests otherwise is playing a cynical political game. Our firefighters and soldiers are kindred spirits. Both jobs involve workers heading into a dangerous situation. They recognize there are risks involved and they accept these risks. It's natural they would support each other.
What are your thoughts? Send in your comments below.
The Sault Star
We see nothing wrong with the fire department, the police department or any other public service vehicle displaying a modest public sign of support for our troops in Afghanistan. This issue has raised some criticism in other municipalities. The concern centres around the idea that the public service - especially emergency response workers - should never show overt displays of political sentiments while on the job.
We agree, but this isn't the case with yellow ribbons recently placed on Sault Ste. Marie firetrucks. Wishing the best for our men and women in harm's way is a universal sentiment. Or at least it should be. If you believe we should pull out of Afghanistan now, or if you believe we should double our efforts there, you can still support or troops. You can vote Conservative, Liberal, NDP, Green or whatever and still support our troops. Anyone who suggests otherwise is playing a cynical political game. Our firefighters and soldiers are kindred spirits. Both jobs involve workers heading into a dangerous situation. They recognize there are risks involved and they accept these risks. It's natural they would support each other.
What are your thoughts? Send in your comments below.
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