Families's Christmas Wishes from One Side of the World to the Other

Families of deployed soldiers were offered the opportunity to wish their sons and daughters a Merry Christmas. Last night, CKCO TV (CTV) in Kitchener opened their studios to the families and video taped Christmas messages from families to their loved ones. Families came from Cambridge, Kitchener, Waterloo, Hamilton, and Peterborough. While waiting, families had a chance to speak to meet with one another as they truly had a commonality within their own family circle.

A special thank you to CKCO / CTV for giving families an avenue for connecting with the soldiers during this special holiday season. And a BIG thank you to the cameraman! He'll know what I mean ;)

"Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all our Troops!"

We Remember

We shall always remember our fallen soldiers and our soldiers serving today.

Our hearts are with you.

Below is a posting of a video from Afghanistan:

God Bless Arielle Keyes-Oliver - October 25, 2008

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

All Is Well

Death is nothing at all,

I have only slipped into the next room

I am I and you are you

Whatever we were to each other,

that we are still.

Call me by my old familiar name,

Speak to me in the easy way

which you always used

Put no difference in your tone,

Wear no forced air

of solemnity or sorrow

Laugh as we always laughed

at the little jokes

we enjoyed together.

Play, smile, think of me,

pray for me.

Let my name be ever

the household word that it always was,

Let it be spoken without effect,

without the trace of shadow on it.

Life means all that it ever meant.

It it the same as it ever was,

there is unbroken continuity.

Why should I be out of mind

because I am out of sight?

I am waiting for you,

for an interval,

omewhere very near,

Just around the corner.

All is well.

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

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

Military Mom

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

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

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

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

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

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

"Prayers to this family!
Airman Mom

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

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

Anonymous

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

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

Lana Keon Carleton University Staff

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

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

wjcatnip

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

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

Anonymous

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

Veterans' 5 Km Walk and Run
What: Veterans' Walk and Run, in support of the Sunnybrook Foundation, Veterans' Grant-a-Wish-Fund
When: November 9th 2008, 1pm
Where: Wilket Creek Park (Leslie, North of Eglington)
Who: Everyone welcome!
This is a great event for friends and families to spend the afternoon outdoors supporting a great cause.
Cost: $10.00 per person
Register by filling out the registration form and emailing it to veteranswalkandrun@gmail.com.
Download PDF Flyer

Toronto’s Sunnybrook Health Sciences
Centre is home to the largest Veterans’ care
facility in Canada. The facility offers long term
and complex hospital care for 500 veterans from
the Second World War and the Korean War.
The Sunnybrook Foundation’s Veterans’
Grant a Wish Fund grants wishes for these
Veterans’ throughout the year. Wishes cost
between $100 and $500, but are priceless
experiences for the Veterans’ and their families.

Thanks Jennifer for the information! Let's get walking!! (and running!) It's an excellent cause!

The other day, I went to my neighbourhood Canada Post Outlet to send a care package off to my son (and his section) With effort, I got the 1st parcel onto the counter and advised them I had one more in the car. When I returned with the second one, my fav. Canada Post manager awaited my return with a big smile. He said to me... "it's starting again soon! Canada Post will be offering free postage to families of soldiers in a few days... Can it wait?"
I looked at him. I looked at the parcels adorned with pumpkin stickers and black cats and said, "No D., these ones have to go now... but you know me.. I'll be back." He said, "And I know it."
I paid for my parcels, patted each with a kiss.. then I turned to go shopping.

Effective October 20th, 2008, Canada Post will start providing free delivery of letters and parcels from family and friends to Canadian troops deployed overseas until the start of 2009.This free delivery offer extends to family and friends of the deployed troops serving overseas. They have to be posted to certain addresses only. (check with your local post office for qualification)

We strongly support our women and men in uniform, and we welcome this very positive initiative to help our troops overseas remain connected with their loved ones in Canada. I am thrilled that the Canada Post has decided to undertake this initiative, and I hope that many Canadian families will take advantage of this opportunity.

To ensure the proper postage, customs declaration and addressing information are used, the letters and parcels need to be sent from one of Canada Post's more than 6,600 full service retail outlets across the country - letters dropped in regular street letter boxes will not qualify for free delivery. They will then be forwarded to Canadian Forces Bases. Once delivered to the military bases, the Department of National Defense will take charge of the parcels and letters and ensure their delivery overseas. All mail must be addressed to a specific soldier, including rank and mission information.

A BIG HUA for Canada Post!!

Voter Turnout of Soldiers in Afghanistan Far Exceeds That in Canada

O.k.. someone explain this to me. Now I know that my son is over there and could possibly be intrumental in making sure troops vote (as some know), however that does not explain the apathy here. It truly makes me shake my head. Again I say how proud I am of our troops!

Results:

Voter turnout in Canada 59%

vs.

Voter turnout in Afghanistan (our troops, our soldiers in the fields, outside the wire,) 84%

Soldiers in Afghanistan Find Time to Vote per Montreal Gazette
Advance poll. Turnout far exceeds national average



The work day all but over yesterday, Bombardier Hollie Speers did what a lot of Canadians are thinking about these days: she voted in an advance poll.
Unlike the average voter, though, Speers cast her ballot with an assault rifle slung over her shoulder at a polling booth deep in Taliban country.
She was part of a Herculean effort to ensure that hundreds of Canadian troops in Afghanistan get a chance to exercise their democratic franchise, between firefights and reconstruction projects.

So far, the project has been a surprising success. The 75-per-cent poll turnout at Speers's forward operating base west of Kandahar city far exceeds the usual national average.
"I felt like, 'How could they not (set up a poll)?' " said the soldier, who helps operate a 155mm artillery gun. "It's a big part of why we're here, so how could they take it away from us?" Elections Canada sent ballots for all of the 2,500 or so Canadian service people stationed in Afghanistan. About a third of them had to be shipped out to the various outposts scattered through the most volatile parts of Kandahar province. Some were even transported by helicopter to the bases.
Capt. Chris Reeves, second-in-command at Speers's base and its designated deputy returning officer, said he had just got back from a harrowing patrol a few weeks ago - where he and his men came under fire from insurgents - to find a package addressed to him from Elections Canada.
It explained, among other points, that he was to allow representatives of the political parties to observe the polling if they applied. As it turned out, "none of the parties showed up," Capt. Reeves said with a grin, as shots rang out from a nearby rifle range.
Soldiers find their home riding in a booklet provided by Elections Canada, choose from a list of candidates for each riding and place their marked ballots in a sealed envelope, which is then sent off to Ottawa.
Reeves said the exercise has served as an unofficial lesson in democracy for the interpreters and other Afghan workers on the base, many of whom asked Capt. Reeves what all the fuss was about.
Some Canadian soldiers told him it was the first time they had voted, he said.
The officer was not alone in linking the election to the Afghanistan mission, partly intended to prevent a return of the anti-democratic Taliban.
"I feel it's my duty to vote," said Master Cpl. David Ritchie, an infantryman with the Royal Canadian Regiment's third battalion.
He said he has kept up to date with the campaign via Canadian TV beamed to a television in the base's mess.
"I'm a soldier and I'm a citizen," said Bombardier Ian Scott, 22, explaining why he felt it important to cast a ballot.
The only troops turned away by Capt. Reeves were two Americans who are here to train Afghan police. They thought they could cast a ballot in the U.S. presidential election at his polling station.






If You Didn't Vote, Shame on You
The Ottawa Citizen Published: Friday, October 17, 2008
Shame on all those eligible voters who did not exercise their democratic right to elect a new government on Oct. 14. Only 59 per cent exercised their right. Watching television interviews just before the election, it was hurtful to view apathetic Canadians, young people in particular, explain away with shallow excuses why they did not intend to vote.
Our right to vote in a democratic process has been bought with the blood and agony of thousands of young Canadians who have fought and died in foreign lands in the last 100 years. And the fight continues with Canadian soldiers dying in Afghanistan in defence of the democratic principles which we accept without thought. In my opinion, those who did not vote have demeaned our military and government personnel who continue to operate under the harshest imaginable conditions in Afghanistan. Hang your heads in shame.
Al Jones

Hey Troops!! ... Stephen Harper has been re-elected as your Prime Minister.

Giving Thanks to Our Troops

As you can see the time I'm writing this note.. I'm not sleeping. I'm thinking of our troops overseas.

As we sit down with family during this Thanksgiving Holiday, let us remember our soldiers in the fields - as they eat their rations in the dust swept deserts, eating from their cardboard plates. To them I wish a peaceful Thanksgiving Day Holiday.

To our soldiers:

Happy Thanksgiving Day! Godspeed! We think of you always and are THANKFUL for YOU.

As before, our family will forgo the fixings at the dining table as we will have our turkey dinner when our son comes home - with him. Happy Thanksgiving Day Son. We love you! Gido says "Hi to my Grandson.. I'm thinking about you and praying for you."

Join Military Families At Kitchener Waterloo's Thankgsiving Day Parade

Are you a family member of a soldier? Would you like to show your support and thanks to our soldiers on Thanksgiving Day? Join other family members of our soldiers in marching in the KW Thanksgiving Day Parade. Look for the sea of red between Central and University Ave on King Street in Waterloo between 8 and 8:30 am. Monday, October 13th, 2008.

One criteria.... you MUST wear RED.

If you can't join us, but are on the parade route.. let them know you're there!

Shout out a big HUA!!

.. and Panic Begins

The other evening while I was sitting at home doing some sewing, my husband came in the house from work in a panic. "Did you hear anything?" he asked with desperation in his voice.
Confused and concerned, I tried calming him down before asking him what he was talking about.
"A soldier was injured.. it was on the news today... a Canadian Soldier." I felt the blood drain from my face. I know many people will tell me "No news is good news." however, in my case this is not true - however rare it is. (only my son and I know why)
So through my husband's instructions, I turned to the news channel. It was not there. He said it was on the radio all day. Looking at him, I saw how much he cares about our boy. The worry in his face.. the intensity of his eyes. Although I was feeling ill inside.. this was a time to comfort him and we continue to pray..



...We pray for the injured soldier and the soldier's family. Give our soldier the strength for a full recovery and his family the stength and love and our support.



The protocol prevents the release the names of our injured soldiers. This is held in confidence.

Canadian soldier injured in Afghanistan
Canwest News ServicePublished: Wednesday, October 08, 2008
KANDAHAR CITY, Afghanistan - One Canadian soldier was injured Tuesday when he was struck by insurgent small arms fire about 30 kilometres west of Kandahar City, according to Armed Forces spokesman Lt. Alain Blondin.
The injured Canadian soldier was evacuated by helicopter to Kandahar Airfield, Blondin said in a statement. The soldier is in serious but stable condition.
The identity of the soldier will not be released.

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

This gives me an opportunity to pass on some IMPORTANT words of advise...
If you are a family member of a deployed soldier - have your passport prepared and updated.

Advance Polls Open for Soldiers in Kandahar

Capt. Chris Reeves, seated at left, assists a soldier at a remote forward operating base in Afghanistan cast an advance ballot Saturday, Oct. 4, 2008 for the Oct. 14 federal election. Election day for most voters is Oct. 14, but Canadians soldiers in Afghanistan have already started to cast their ballots. Photo Credit: Canadian Press

Our soldiers are VOTING!

Advance voting is now underway way at Kandahar Air Field and at forwarding operating bases in the country.
A military elections officer said there have been some challenges in getting ballots to soldiers in some of Afghanistan's more remote locations. But he noted that no Canadian soldier will be denied the right to vote. (whew... my son really was proactive in our family and circle of friends when it came time to vote. EVERYONE had to vote. Although he MAY have given strong suggestions to which party to vote for - a party he had worked closely with)
Soldiers and Canadian civilians attached to military operations in Afghanistan will be able to cast their ballots -- for a candidate in his or her home riding -- until Oct. 8.
One soldier said the political parties' positions on Afghanistan were paramount in his voting process.
"The party that's going to support me the most while I'm over here is a big concern for me ... that's kind of the way I voted this year," Cpl. Dave MacDonald said.
Last March, Parliament overwhelmingly passed a motion to extend the military mission in Afghanistan to 2011.
Conservative Leader Stephen Harper said last month that Canada's military commitment in the country will end at that time.
The Liberals have also said the country's military focus in Afghanistan should end in 2011 and they had supported the Tories in the spring to extend the mission. The NDP had voted against extension.
More than 2,500 Canadian soldiers are based in Afghanistan.

Red Friday Rally - October 24th in Waterloo

It's a Red Friday Rally!

Come out, wear red, bring a flag, purchase a candle

and SUPPORT OUR TROOPS!

on

Friday, October 24th, 2008

at

7:00 pm

at

Waterloo Cenotaph (beside Waterloo City Hall)

100 Regina Street, Waterloo (see map below)

Proceeds from the Charity BBQ (sponsored by M&M meat shop) will go to The Poppy Fund

MC - Jeff Allen from 570 CHYM

Canadian Forces endorsed Support Our Troops Merchandise will be available for sale.

Event Co-ordinated by: Families of Canadian Soldiers in Afghanistan

Let the pride in our soldiers SHINE as we Support Our Troops.

View Larger Map

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.

Where Families Meet Together

On September 27th, 2008 F.O.S.I.A. (Families of Canadian Soldiers in Afghanistan) held an evening for discussion, support and sharing. (Their next meeting will be Saturday, October 25th.) Their guest speaker was Dr. David Rainham who presented an engaging and resourceful discussion about stress.

Also present this evening was Donna Pickering who is the new Outreach Community Coordinator from London Military Family Resource Centre , announcing that she will be the coordinator out of Cambridge Armouries (part of the RHFC building) for Kitchener, Waterloo, Guelph and Cambridge areas WELCOME DONNA!


At this time she extended an invitation to families of soldiers to attend a"Meet and Greet" sponsored by LMFRC to be held at the centre at:Col. J.A. McIntosh Armoury, 1 Valour Place, Cambridge on Tuesday October 7th. at 7 pm





The group received a thank you card from Cpl. Arnal's mother Wendy. Enclosed in the card was a beautifully expressed poem echoing feelings many military families have.


I placed the poem below (I cannot imagine what she is going through)

Corporal James Hayward Arnal
April 9, 1983 – July 18, 2008


My dearest James,

You died for a cause that was your belief
You made a difference lessening the grief.
Do or do not, there is no try,
Our motto till the day we die.

You travelled the world, many lives you saved,
The road of a vision you paved.
Soldiering for you was the right thing to do,
Awakening Canadian patriotism anew.

Carpe diem, seize the day!
Your legacy will show the way.
You continue to teach what life’s all about,
With each day we have less doubt.

You guide me in spirit and somehow I cope,
With this kind of miss there is no hope.
I love you James with all my heart,
Together forever, even though now apart.

I know you are still with me,
For that I’m sure will always be.
“We can rest when we die” was your fate,
My Hero, number 88.

Love always,
MomXO

Letting Go

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Check In

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

__

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

Please pray over them and protect them.

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

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

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

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

A BIG SALUTE TO THE PEOPLE OF TWEED, ONTARIO

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

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

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

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

THANK YOU TWEED FOR ALL YOUR OUTSTANDING SUPPORT!

CFB Trenton

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

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

Saying not goodbye.. but see you soon

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

I Just Need One More Day.. and Ya that Calendar Can Speed up Now.

It has happened. My son has deployed. He has now joined the rest of the Battle Group. I need just one more day to compose myself before writing the next entry.
It's been difficult.
Thanks for being sooo patient and for your many emails. They have truly comforted me.
Hey.. I'm supposed to help you!
Talk to you tomorrow.
~ Love m.m.

Son.. if you're reading this.. remember I love you and am very very proud of you!
"Tear check."

Do you need someone to talk to? ...

Do you have a family member who is currently deployed overseas or is preparing to deploy or has returned? You are invited to attend a meeting and get together with:

“FAMILIES OF CANADIAN SOLDIERS IN AFGHANISTAN”
ON SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2008
7:00 P.M.

AT THE 404 WING R.C.A.F., MEMBERS’ LOUNGE
510 DUTTON DR., WATERLOO

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

7:30 to 8:30 p.m. Guest Speaker, Dr. David Rainham
Stress and Stress Management

8:30 p.m. - ? Questions and Answers, Upcoming Events, Socializing

About the Speaker: Helping patients manage stress has become a major part of Dr. Rainham’s family practice. He has written several books on the subject, as well as being a contributor to several magazines, newspapers, and radio stories. He has found that effective management of stress can improve overall physical health.

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. by September 26, 2008 - focsia@hotmail.com or kerrytownson@rogers.com

Whoa ... Slow that Calendar Down!

Can someone slow these days down a bit? I have been behind in my postings as my son's deployment date nears closer and closer.

As the days are marked off the calendar, we try to do things with him as much as possible. I tell him "it's creating memories" and he smiles. I took him horseback riding the other day. I loved seeing his smiles. Yes, memories. (and my legs still hurt) I want to thank Jessica (our leader) for putting up with us even thought she was physically hurting at the time. It's o.k. I'll get those branches out of my hair someday. Now about those berries?.. hmm.


Today a young child approached me and looked up to me and said "You son army. He away. You cry." I then felt the burning in my eyes as the tears welled up, wanting to release, but I couldn't cry, not infront of this sweet child. I looked at him and tried my best to smile. But his glances travelled from my one eye to the other. He knew.


Today my son and I had been invited to attend a luncheon. It was a fabulous lunch, with many in attendance. Many faces I recognized, possibly from the past or through the media. I felt like royalty as they seated us at the head table. The voices were drowned out by the thoughts of packing... the thoughts of saying goodbye. (I had told my son thought I would never say "goodbye" to him... it would be "see you soon". Goodbye seems so final.) Proudly I watched over him as many people approached to speak with us. Every so often, in his familiar way, he'd give my arm a gentle pinch - a way of saying I love you.


It was so sad as we parted company there in the parking garage, to meet again up on base.


Where I'll sleep when I get up there, I don't know. I've been told the motels are all booked and the barracks are full. I'll sleep in the car if I have to.. I need to be there... for him.. for them.


This evening, feeling the stress, I walked into a neighbourhood bookstore and bought a familiar Tall Skinny Vanilla Latte (those names sure are hard to pronounce at times.) I walked around the bookstore aimlessly, almost like being in a daze. To not exit with a new purchase under my arm, I know something's not right. Then, on my way home, the tears started uncontrollably. I pulled over and phoned a fellow military mom. Through tears, we talked at lengths. Thank you J. for pulling me through. For a wee person, you have BIG shoulders. :)

Son, if you're reading this right now, I want you know that "I love you very much and I'm so very proud of you. And you're right: You work with the military over there and I'll work on it from this side of the world. Godspeed my love and Good Hunting Troops."

Largest Human "Support Our Troops" Banner

WE NEED YOUR HELP TO SHOW OUR TROOPS HOW MUCH WE CARE!

Participate in Forming the

Largest Human

"Support Our Troops" Banner

Bring as many people as you wish ~ let's make it huge!!!

REMEMBER TO WEAR A RED SHIRT to participate!

Great Lake Helicopter will be flying a chopper over the field at 3:30 pm with New Hamburg Independent Photographer, Tim Murphy aboard to document our event from the air.

Copies of this picture will be forwarded to ALL our Troops.

When: Sunday, September 7, 2008 at 3:00 pm - 5:00 p.m.

Where: New Hamburg Legion Br 532

Directions: From Kitchener Area: - Highway 7/8 West towards Stratford - take the Nafziger exit - you will see the Wilmot Rec Centre on the right - it's right there!

In the Main Field of the Wilmot Recreation Complex (Regional Road 5 and Hwy 7&8- Between Baden & New Hamburg)

For further details contact the New Hamburg Legion at 519-662-3770. See you there!

Bless Sgt. Scott Shipway - Sunday, September 07, 2008

God bless our fallen soldier, Sgt. Scott Shipway. My heart and prayers are with his friends and family both here and overseas. Thank you Sgt Shipway for your commitment and dedication and bravery exemplified through your tours and dedication to your comrades.

Sergeant Prescott Shipway, an infantryman, was killed on September 7, 2008 after his armoured vehicle struck an improvised explosive device during a security patrol in Panjwayii District at approximately 12:30 p.m., Kandahar time. He was a member of the 2nd Battalion Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry, based at Shilo, Manitoba.

Sgt Prescott Shipway, 7 septembre, 2008
Le Sergent Prescott Shipway a été tué le 7 septembre 2008 après que le véhicule dans lequel il voyageait eut touché un engin explosif de circonstance lors d’une patrouille de sécurité dans le district de Panjwayi. Il était membre du 2e Bataillon, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry, basé à Shilo, Manitoba.
an infantryman with the 2nd battalion of the Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry, died in a roadside attack.

A roadside bomb attack in Afghanistan has killed a Canadian soldier nearing the end of his second rotation, and wounded seven others, in Kandahar province's Panjwaii district.
Sgt. Scott Shipway, an infantryman with the 2nd battalion of the Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry, died less than a week before he was set to go home, Brig. Gen. Denis Thompson told reporters Sunday at a new conference in Kandahar.
"Scott was a seasoned veteran ... a dedicated father and a Saskatchewan Roughriders fan," Brig General Thompson said.
He added that fellow-soldiers called him "Papa Shipway" and his motto was "to never let a comrade down."
His dedication was apparent when he helped save a fellow soldier's life during a roadside bomb attack in 2006.
"At that time, he disregarded the danger to himself, secured the area of the blast and began treating the casualties, including one who had lost both his legs," Thompson said.
"Using the radio he got direction from the chief surgeon and was able to stop the bleeding, thereby saving that soldier's life.
Shipway was cited for his quick reaction.
Thompson said friends and other soldiers admired Shipway because he never "sugarcoated the truth."
"He always gave you an honest answer, whether you wanted it or not," the general said.
Shipway was based at CFB Shilo and had joined the military in 1991. He had previously completed tours of duty in Cypress, Bosnia, and Kosovo.
The injured soldiers were well enough to personally tell their loved ones they were okay, Thompson said.

Petawawa Red Friday Rally Supports the Troops

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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