nse commanding officer thanks cancap - SNC

Volume IV, Issue 2—SUMMER/FALL 2011
NSE COMMANDING OFFICER THANKS CANCAP
NSE CO L.Col Sebastien Bouchard took the time to visit CANCAP’s Oasis, expressing his thanks to
CANCAP for the support to his Roto. He spoke about the contributions that CANCAP has made to the
success of the Canadian military mission in Kandahar province, and spoke as well about the successes he
has observed when patrolling through the region: new schools opened; water wells dug / constructed; and a
greater sense of security in some Afghan communities. All-in-all, Canada has made a difference in Afghanistan and SNC-Lavalin PAE personnel should be proud to have contributed to it!
Inside this issue:
NSE CO THANKS
CANCAP
1
CANCAP PROGRAM
MANAGER’S CORNER
2
NOTICE ABOUT GSMS &
BARS
3
MESSAGE FROM B. GEN
C.A. LAMARRE
3
SHAWNNA MURPHY
4
CANADA DAY
6
PM’S MESSAGE
8
ARMY RUN
9
COC PHOTOS
9
BENEFITS OF LIFE ON KAF
10
HISTORY REPEATS ITSELF
11
MEET THE
AGERS
12
PMOO MAN-
RYAN MUNRO IN SRI
LANKA
14
LAST BBQ AT THE OASIS
18
RTC PROFILE
20
The SANDPAPER
NEWSLETTER FOR CANCA P EMPLOYEES & FAMILIES
Volume IV, Issue 2
ISO 9001:2008 Certified
PROGRAM MANAGER’S CORNER
A Message From Ian Malcolm
They tell me all good things must end but it
still causes me pain when I think about our KAF
project actually closing down. By the time you
read this, we will probably have demobilized over
50% of our workforce with all remaining employees scheduled to be off KAF by 30 November. It has been a great run!
I have always told you about the great work you
have done and the very high regard we have
from our military colleagues. We
will end our work on KAF with
the same excellent results and
each one of you can head home
knowing you contributed to not
only a successful project, but as
an important part of our military’s efforts in Afghanistan.
As I think back on our five plus
years on KAF, I have to marvel at
the growth we accomplished and
the changes that we made or have seen to the
camp. When I landed there in April 2006, KAF
was a much smaller place with only about 7,000
troops. The whole area fit close to the flight lines
and to the Boardwalk – the POL point was on
the perimeter of the camp. By the time we
started leaving, the camp had expanded to over
25,000 troops, dozens of international contractors, stores, fast food places and three major
recreation centres. Construction has continued
at a hectic pace, moving on from Area 9 to
South Park to Deep South and no signs yet of
things slowing down. The old mess tents used by
KBR and specializing in hamburgers and catfish
have been replaced by huge buildings where
several thousand people a meal are fed daily.
Even the market has grown from a collection of
merchandise placed on rugs on the sand to the
stalls and semi-permanent clutter of today.
Our project started with 66 employees, many of
whom were drawn from our Kabul crew. Five
years later we were up to 370 – an over 500%
increase. We recruited an average of 15 people a
month over this period so that we estimate
about 900 new employees made it to KAF, while
many of you stayed for extended contracts. To-
Page 2
day, we only have two non-Canadians in the
company, with our employees coming from
every province in Canada.
You know what I will remember the most about
KAF? There was the tremendously long flight to
get there (and after almost two dozen visits it was
a very long trip) but I remember stopping in
Dubai at a hotel to listen to a couple of Japanese
singers performing Frank Sinatra songs while I
had a couple of Stella beers. There was
the unpleasant experience of morning
ablutions, standing in the dirty water
and fighting for a spot. But I remember
the fun at morning coffee and the Timmie’s rounds and talking to people first
thing in the morning. There was the
endless noise and dust—not to mention
the assorted aromas wafting across the
tent lines. But I remember the people
sitting out at night talking to each
other, or the gang at the Oasis playing
Texas Hold ‘Em, or just watching a hockey game
to pass the time. There were some complaints,
some gripes and of course some disgruntled
people over the years. But I remember the fantastic spirit to get the job done, the pride in
helping our military do well and the spirit
shown in coming together to commemorate the
passing of Mark Cyr.
Most of all, I remember you as a great group that
I was proud to represent to our clients and our
parent companies. We were good on KAF and
you deserve the praise!
I want to wish each of you a safe return home
and the best in the future. If I can help any of
you in any way just send me an email and I will
do my best. I look forward to meeting many of
you again and who knows where the next adventure may be? Take care……….Ian Ian Malcolm
CANCAP Program Manager
Volume IV, Issue 2
The SANDPAPER
NEWSLETTER FOR CANCA P EMPLOYEES & FAMILIES
ISO 9001:2008 Certified
GENERAL SERVICE MEDALS & ROTATION BARS
Important Information for Employees—Past and Present
DND is currently reviewing the application process for Medals and Bars. Individual
employees can no longer submit applications. We are compiling the required information and an application will be placed with DND on your behalf. Due to the
current “backlog” at DND they cannot advise when Medals or Bars will be distributed. We will provide additional information as soon as we can. Your patience and
understanding are appreciated. CANCAP Human Resources
A MESSAGE FROM BRIGADIER-GENERAL C. A. LAMARRE
Mission Transition Task Force Commander Praises & Thanks SNC-Lavalin PAE Personnel
As the Mission Transition Task Force continues the drawdown of equipment, materiel, and personnel in Kandahar, it is important to recognize one of the key enablers
that have led to our success over the last decade. The support provided by CANCAP
employees and their expertise has directly contributed to mission success, and allowed
the Canadian Forces to build a reputation with our allies of which we can be proud.
The diversity of skills and experience within your workforce has enabled CANCAP to
serve many critical functions here at KAF. The continuity provided by the civilian
workforce has allowed critical support functions to carry on uninterrupted by the
normal rotation schedule of military personnel. CANCAP has been instrumental in
relieving the deployment burden on some of the CF’s support occupations, and has
allowed our soldiers to maintain a very high operational tempo.
The support provided by the Canadians working in CANCAP includes Management,
Foods, Supply Services (MMD), CIS, LEMS, Transport, Accommodations, and CE.
CANCAP is not a new organization. Drawing their roots back to Bosnia and then
later to Kabul, many of the staff employed here have done this before. Not only has
your experience proved exceptional, but the relationships and connections formed
between our organizations have truly solidified the team that we see today. In June of
this year, there were 357 of you working in various sections around KAF. The capability that number represents is significant.
Some of you have been in theatre for several years and have gained a level of experience that is invaluable to our organization; others are new to this company and bring
tremendous energy and work ethic. Some are fresh out of high school or university,
driven to come here for the adventure and work opportunities. Others already have
well established careers and the expertise to bring their professional and technical
skills to our mission. Whatever your reasons for coming here, I have been impressed
by your evident patriotism and support to the Canadian Forces. You have every reason to be proud of the work you have done. Thanks to each and every one of you. C.A. Lamarre
Brigadier-General
Brigadier-General Lamarre addresses CANCAP
as SNC-Lavalin PAE Program Manager Ian
Malcolm and LCol. V. Tattersall, CO Mission
Closure Unit look on.
Commander, Mission Transition Task Force
Page 3
The SANDPAPER
NEWSLETTER FOR CANCA P EMPLOYEES & FAMILIES
Volume IV, Issue 2
ISO 9001:2008 Certified
PROFILE OF A UNIQUE CANCAPer
Transportation Records Controller Shawnna Murphy
What is it that makes Shawnna so unique? Is it her constant supply of candy, which she generously
distributes to those who happen to visit her office at Headquarters? Is it her adorable smile, infectious
laughter, and exuberant energy? NOPE – while all of these make her a wonderfully special person,
what makes her truly unique is that she has been stationed at Kandahar Air Field for three tours:
•
Her first tour as a member of Canadian Forces; a Cpl from 36 CBG HQ,
Halifax, serving as an RMS clerk – Roto 3 (2007)
•
Her second tour as a Travel Coordinator with the CFPSA – Roto 8 (2010)
•
Her third tour with CANCAP as the Fuel Records Controller for the Transport Department – Roto 10 (2011)
We are pretty sure that there are not too many (if any) other Canadian citizens that have been here with
each of Canada’s main contingents of Task Force Afghanistan. When we asked her what keeps bringing
her back to KAF, the answer was “The People”.
No one is prouder of their Newfoundland & Labrador heritage than Shawnna, or more knowledgeable
about NL history & politics. .... On Canada Day this year in KAF, she was easily identifiable in the sea
of red & white Canadians. She was resplendent in her huge Dr. Seuss "Cat in the Hat" style Canada
hat, and wore the Newfoundland & Labrador flag proudly around her shoulders. She reminded one
and all that in addition to celebrating Canada Day, it was also Memorial Day in NL; a day of remembrance of the July 1, 1916 WWI Battle of the Somme, where the Royal Newfoundland Regiment fought
bravely at Beaumont-Hamel, and suffered terrible losses.
Some interesting facts about Shawwna:
•
She gets regular care packages from the Gander, NL Military and Family Resource Centre, often filled with
Mr.Freezies and candy
•
She loves to watch movies and TV (her favourite shows
include "Dexter" & “Gilmore Girls”)
•
She loves cupcakes (they are here most favouritist thing!)
•
She has a travelling rubber ducky (actually, she now has 2!)
that she takes with her on vacation
•
She uses her Wii system for regular workouts
•
One of her goals is to be a contestant on Jeopardy. She has
already been on TV in the States as a part of a successful trivia team
•
She loves travelling to exotic locales, (Seychelles, Fiji, etc.)
•
She is a computer whiz and can solve any problem you have
with Excel or Word in a New York (or Cornerbrook) minute
•
She is addicted to Tim Horton's (Double / Double in a
Double Cup)
•
She makes up songs for the HQ staff all the time, and tells us
all, repeatedly, just how adorable she is! (and we agree!)
Page 4
Volume IV, Issue 2
The SANDPAPER
NEWSLETTER FOR CANCA P EMPLOYEES & FAMILIES
ISO 9001:2008 Certified
Shawnna Murphy Profile...continued….
The pride of Cornerbrook, NL, she has been profiled several times in The Western Star (the Cornerbrook
newspaper), who have acknowledged her unique experience in Afghanistan. We're proud to have Shawwna
completing her 'hat trick' (Canadian Forces / CFPSA / CANCAP) with our company. Thank you for your
service, Shawnna. You've done us all proud! Shawnna’s favourite TV Theme song is from “The Littlest Hobo”
– and any article about Shawnna wouldn’t be complete without these lyrics, so here they are folks ☺
Heather Pearson
CANCAP HR Coordinator
There's a voice that keeps on calling me
Down the road is where I'll always be
Every stop I make, I'll make a new friend
Can't stay for long, just turn around and I'm gone again.
Maybe tomorrow, I'll want settle down,
Until tomorrow, I'll just keep moving on.
Down this road, that never seems to end,
Where new adventure, lies just around the bend.
So if you want to join me for a while
Just grab your hat, come travel light - that's hobo style.
Maybe tomorrow, I'll want settle down,
Until tomorrow, the whole world is my home.
So if you want to join me for a while
Just grab your hat, come travel light
That's hobo style.
Maybe tomorrow, I'll want settle down,
Until tomorrow, I'll just keep moving on.
<INSTRUMENTAL BRIDGE>
Maybe tomorrow, I'll want settle down,
Until tomorrow, I'll just keep moving on.
There's a world, that's waiting to unfold,
A brand new tale, no one has ever told,
We've journey'd far but, you know it won't be long,
We're almost there and we've paid our fare, with the
hobo song.
Maybe tomorrow, I'll want settle down,
Until tomorrow, I'll just keep moving on.
So if you want to join me for a while
Just grab your hat, come travel light - that's hobo style.
Maybe tomorrow, I'll find what I call home
Until tomorrow, you know I'm free to roam. Page 5
The SANDPAPER
NEWSLETTER FOR CANCA P EMPLOYEES & FAMILIES
Volume IV, Issue 2
ISO 9001:2008 Certified
CANADA DAY ON KANDAHAR AIRFIELD
CANCAP Helps CFPSA Raise Funds for ‘Soldier On’
July 1, 2011 was the last Canada Day celebration that will take place in KAF and was celebrated in
style! Rick Mercer and others entertained the crowd. And Thomas Neill of MMD was invited to sing
with Andre Philip Gagnon ('Evergreen" by Barbra Streisand, I think!!)....Thomas was a good sport and
had fun with it. Celebrations also featured a midway operated jointly by CANCAP and CFPSA. CANCAP operated 3 of 10 midway events and contributed a large proportion of the funds that were raised
for Soldier On, a CFPSA initiative that helps improve the quality of life of ill and injured military personnel and their families. CTV news anchor Lisa LaFlamme was also on hand and even took the time
to pose for a photo with CANCAP Deputy Project Manager Tony Rerrie (see opposite page). Page 6
Volume IV, Issue 2
The SANDPAPER
NEWSLETTER FOR CANCA P EMPLOYEES & FAMILIES
ISO 9001:2008 Certified
CANADA DAY ON KAF...continued…..
Page 7
The SANDPAPER
NEWSLETTER FOR CANCA P EMPLOYEES & FAMILIES
Volume IV, Issue 2
ISO 9001:2008 Certified
THE HOME STRETCH
Message from CANCAP Project Manager Neil Asbil
The Home Stretch…Definition:
n.
1. The portion of a racetrack from the last turn to the finish line.
2. Informal The final stages of an undertaking.
Well here we are nearing the end of September and the CANCAP project on KAF is, by either definition above, in the home stretch. In any kind of racing, the home stretch means that the long part of the
race is over but some critical decisions are still ahead – if you slack off coming into the home stretch –all
the sacrifices you’ve made to get and hold position up to then will mean nothing when field blows past
on their way to the finish line. On the other hand – if you press too hard, you may run out of gas just
before the finish with the same result. It all comes down to understanding what level of effort is required
to hold your position across the line and then to put out that effort.
Over the past 5 years, CANCAPers have made a real and positive contribution to the Canadian mission
and we have been recognized on many occasions for our collective and individual efforts. We’ve also
made a very positive impression on both the military and civilians from many other nations through the
quality of our work, our comportment and our participation in KAF life. In race terms, we are very well
positioned for the home stretch as a result of our past work . We have an opportunity to finish the KAF
mission with a truly impressive kick. To do so, we need to remain mindful of the safety and security
issues that go with working in a place like KAF. We also need to stay focused on doing the work to the
best of our ability and making sure that what we are doing is aligned with what the Forces need from us.
As the mission gets closer and closer to closing, their ‘most important issues’ will change and we’ll need
to keep in step with them as their focus changes. We also need to keep in mind that these course corrections will come as our numbers thin out so we have to keep planning as we go so we can meet the need
with the correct level of effort.
We all heard General Lamarre’s comments about the mission so far, our critical role in it and the new
mission planning that is already taking place back in Canada. He put into perspective how important it
is that this base close well to facilitate the Forces success with OP Attention in Kabul and the regeneration of our military as they train and prepare for their next mission – whatever it may be. Our job then,
is to do all we can to help the Canadian Forces so they can leave KAF on schedule and in good order.
To do this we need to manage frustrations that will come as we get closer to the finish, and keep focused
on the prize, a clean finish. Task Force RSM Jeans put it perfectly when he suggested that the best way to
manage frustrations is in the gym; run it out, punch it out, work it out but don’t take it our on each
other or on our customer. Let’s all work together to ensure CANCAP’s legacy in Kandahar and with the
Canadian Forces remains one of excellence as it has been throughout the project to date.
The end of the mission is in sight and it is a bittersweet thing. On one hand we get to go home to our
world – one where the type of strife that Afghanistan has faced for far too long is virtually unknown, one
in which our friends and families will be happy to see us again. On the other hand – many of us have
met people in theatre that we now count as good friends and once we leave here we may not meet each
other again or if we do it will be infrequent. For most of us, I think we will miss KAF and the people
we’ve met here. Most of us will not miss the heat of summer or the wet and cold (and MUD) of winter
but we will think about the near perfect September weather and maybe for a split second we’ll wish we
were back here.
Life will go on so let’s get this mission finished in good order and then we can all look to see what’s
next… Neil Asbil
Page 8
CANCAP Project Manager
Volume IV, Issue 2
The SANDPAPER
NEWSLETTER FOR CANCA P EMPLOYEES & FAMILIES
ISO 9001:2008 Certified
ARMY RUN 2011
CANCAP a Proud Sponsor of the Army Run—Several CANCAPers Participate
Ian Malcolm, Frank Vice and John Beresford manned the SNC-Lavalin PAE booth at the 4
th
Annual Army
Run in Ottawa, which took place on September 18, 2011. SNC-Lavalin PAE was one of the original sponsors
of the first run and have been involved ever since. Proceeds from the Army Run, which will see over 14,000
entrants in either the 5K or Half-Marathon, go to the Wounded Soldier and Family Support Centres Funds to
assist Canadian Forces soldiers and their families. Given our long involvement with our military colleagues in
Bosnia, Kabul and Kandahar, sponsorship of the Army Run is a great fit for SNC-Lavalin PAE. We also help
with the Army Run on KAF.
This year, Charlie Rate, President of SNC-Lavalin O&M ran the half marathon along with Ian Malcolm,
Shannon Macmillan and Tony Thatcher (MWAV Project Manager) as company representatives. The aim is to
finish while taking part in what is one of the great motivational and moving events of our company year. LEFT: (L to R) Tony
Thatcher (Project Manager for the SNC-Lavalin
Defence Programs Minor
Warships & Auxiliary
Vessels Project), Shannon MacMillan and Ian
Malcolm after the Army
Run.
RIGHT: (L to R) John
Beresford, Frank Vice
and Ian Malcolm man
the SNC-Lavalin PAE
booth at the Army Run.
CHANGE OF COMMAND CEREMONY
CANCAP Participates in the Change of Command from the NSE to Mission Transition Task Force
Page 9
The SANDPAPER
NEWSLETTER FOR CANCA P EMPLOYEES & FAMILIES
Volume IV, Issue 2
ISO 9001:2008 Certified
QC WEIGHS IN ON THE BENEFITS OF LIFE ON KAF
Peter Budansew and Alan Leek Prove That Life on KAF ‘Ain’t Too Bad’!
All this and much, MUCH more!
L
ife on KAF is like all other aspects of life; it is what you make of it. Peter and Alan are very
different people who get along well because they have very similar approaches to life on KAF.
We all have options that allow us to see life here as austere and hard or look at the KAF glass as
being full of benefits not offered anywhere else on earth. Whenever they hear someone express
their concerns or disappointment with their life on KAF, Alan and Pete can be heard playing
their favourite KAF song “We Gotta Get Out Of This Place” by the Animals, as they sound off
their list of benefits in the hopes of raising the spirits of their fellow CANCAPers and it goes
something like this………
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
The opportunity to serve your country somewhere most people fear to tread
Award of Canada’s General Service Medal, with bars for additional Rotations
Free trip to the Middle East to witness how other cultures live
Free exclusive and all inclusive location with few responsibilities and worries
Virtually unlimited sun, sand and ponds (swim at your own risk)
Two months paid vacation each year plus lots of spending money
Signing or completion bonuses just for sticking around for 6 months
Monthly cash prize awards and employee of the month awards
Virtually no income tax to pay
No municipal taxes and no sales taxes
Free trip to Ottawa for training (even if you never get to wear that gas mask again!)
Free climate-controlled accommodations, within walking distance of work
Free meals – 3 times a day, filled with menus to please every taste…at least once
Free bottled water available anywhere, anytime. Back home it costs more than gas
Free snacks and drinks throughout the day
Free clothing, footwear, hats and sunglasses
Free laundry service delivered close to home (if you can stand the wrinkles) or a free laundromat not far away (if you can’t)
Free coffee close to home and work and Tim Hortons available right on camp
Free use of vehicles (gas and insurance included) to get to work or to dine at one of KAF’smany exclusive dining facilities (better known as the DFACs)
Free non stop air shows with the latest civilian and military aircraft
Free entertainment by Canada’s top talent and dignitaries, including the Prime Minister
Free movies, shown on the big screen….thanks to Conrad and Arni
Free service club (The Oasis) complete with TV, X-box and Wii
Free use of several gyms which also offer personal trainers, martial arts, exercise and
Zumba classes
Free Salsa and Merengue dance lessons at the US MWR and the Boardwalk
Free book and DVD library
Free monthly BBQ, often with entertainment
Free alcohol (beer or wine) served once a month and on special occasions
Free hair cuts
Free phone, computers and internet access
Free firework show put on by some of the neighbours...guaranteed to make you lie down
and enjoy
Free back up power systems in case of unexpected power outages…caused by the fireworks
Life in a place that will make you appreciate your home and loved ones like never before….Priceless
Have a safe trip home and thanks for coming out to KAF! Peter Budansew and Alan Leek
Page 10
CANCAP QUALITY CONTROL
Volume IV, Issue 2
The SANDPAPER
NEWSLETTER FOR CANCA P EMPLOYEES & FAMILIES
ISO 9001:2008 Certified
HISTORY REPEATS ITSELF
Trudi Finlayson is Presented a Medal by Two General Milners—One in 1991, Another in 2011
On Saturday, July 16, 2011, history repeated itself in a fashion, when Mary (Trudi) Finlayson, Supply Technician – CIS, was presented with her General Service Medal (GSM) by Brig. General Dean Milner, Task Force
Kandahar Commander in his office at Kandahar Air Field.
This was not the first time that Trudi was presented with a medal by a General Milner. Twenty years ago, in
1991, Trudi was serving as the NCO in charge of Clothing Stores with CANCONCYP, the Canadian Contingent of the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Nicosia, Cyprus. At the time, Maj. General Clive Milner
was serving as the Commander of United Nations Forces in Cyprus (UNFICYP), and presented Trudi with
her UNFICYP medal.
General Clive Milner (Cyprus) is the father of General Dean Milner (Kandahar). Trudi remarked upon what
a unique happenstance it was to have father and son, as General officers, both commanding missions that she
served in; initially as a soldier; subsequently as a civilian. She also remarked on what a special honour it was to
be awarded her medals by each, successively.
M.Gen. Clive Milner retired from the Canadian Army in the 1990s. B.Gen Dean Milner has recently assumed his new post as Canadian Deputy Commanding Officer, III Corps, Fort Hood, Texas. Ralph Mahar
CANCAP Operations Manager
Trudi Finlayson(top middle),
now a CANCAPer, served in
Cyprus under Major General
Clive Milner (top left and top
right) in 1991. Major General
Milner presented Trudi’s UNFICYP medal to her in Cyprus in
1991; 20 years later, Brigadier
General Dean Milner (General
Clive Milner’s son) presented
Trudi with her General Service
Medal in his office at Kandahar
Airfield (shown bottom).
Page 11
The SANDPAPER
NEWSLETTER FOR CANCA P EMPLOYEES & FAMILIES
Volume IV, Issue 2
ISO 9001:2008 Certified
MEET THE PMOO PERSONNEL
The PMOO Management Team
Given that this may be our last contribution,
instead of focussing on one person I thought I
would give you some thoughts on our PMOO
managers. And we have had some interesting
characters over the years to say the least.
Let’s start with our HR Manager, the one and
only Frank Vice. Frank actually started work
outings down the Rideau or to Montebello, and
his general sense of fun (sometimes a bit weird
but fun) in the office. Frank - you made the
place enjoyable and I thank you for being there.
The next guy on the hit list is Derek Wills – the
guy who ended up with every odd job in the
office and never complained (almost never).
Derek oversaw our vacation travel, deployment
travel, employee benefits, medical plans and the
termination process. The trouble with Derek is
that if you did not tell him to go home then he
would simply not leave until everything was
done. So, to really keep busy he volunteered to
be the President of his local hockey association.
He is also the only person I know who went
through one-on-one counselling to get his licence back after a few too many times trying to
fly between home and Ottawa. He personally has
subsidized several police Christmas parties. Hey
“D” – your work was appreciated and you were
an important part of our success – thanks.
The World-Famous Frank Vice!
with us in 2003 and has been involved with
Bosnia, Kabul and Kandahar. He has been an
invaluable asset for us, leading our recruiting
efforts that saw us keep the deployed establishment at over 95% despite the many restrictions
we faced. But Frank was much more than a
typical HR Manager – he has provided us with
well thought out professional advice concerning employee benefits, insurance, claims and a
host of other issues. He has willingly gone to
our missions for extended periods to help on
the ground and of course, he has been a fixture
at PDT events. Frank has also been our Entertainment Committee (often by himself) and the
entire group will remember our 1000 Islands
Cruise, our dinners at Christmas, our summer
Page 12
Derek Wills
Volume IV, Issue 2
The SANDPAPER
NEWSLETTER FOR CANCA P EMPLOYEES & FAMILIES
ISO 9001:2008 Certified
Meet the PMOO Management Team….continued….
Then I turn to
Jennifer Casselman, who
was our Billing
Supervisor
and Queen of
the Progress
Claims. Do
you know that
at one time we
were
$15,000,000
behind in
claims? Jennifer personally
Jennifer Casselman
turned that
around to the
point that we get paid within 30 days and regularly
have NO rejections from our claims. This is an
incredible result and shows how she was able to
create a very effective team from our
Finance section to earn these results.
And, oh yes – Jenn thanks for saving
our jobs!!
Next, let me talk about Heather Wallace
our Office Manager. Heather is on the
job from very early to very late every day
and does not let things go unfinished
while she is around. No matter what
task we give her, from getting medals
approved, to finding new computers, to
completing weekly reports, Heather will
produce a first class effort that meets all
requirements. This year she has discovered a determination to use our Good Life pass
(when does she have the time?), take care of two
independent young daughters and
keep the office functioning. You got
a problem? You call Heather and
somehow it will be fixed.
Then there is Ivica Horvat otherwise
known as “Ike” who came to the
PMOO after years in Kabul and
KAF. Ike keeps us on the straight
and narrow as our PMOO QC Manager but has also made major contributions with his Health and Safety
Program and earning us ISO certification as a company. Just make sure
you do not try to test his hockey
knowledge or passion for the game
or block his view of his grandson’s photo.
Then we have three of our senior managers –
Jim Harvey, Howard Burleigh and John Fox –
they must have earned awards for forbearance
and patience by
putting up with
the Program
Manager all this
time. Without
their help, many
initiatives would
not have been
taken and most
of all we would
not have had
their advice and
support over the
John Fox
years.
I could go on because I think we have a special
bunch at the PMOO who have tried their best
to respond to the field and understand that our
priority must be to support the mission. I am
not claiming perfection but have seen an honest
effort to contribute to making our project a real
success. Most of all, it has been a wonderful
group to work with and I come away with great
memories of our PMOO. Thanks everyone! Thanks to our PMO Correspondent for
providing this article about
the PMOO Managers!
Heather Wallace
Page 13
Jim Harvey
Howard Burleigh
The SANDPAPER
NEWSLETTER FOR CANCA P EMPLOYEES & FAMILIES
Volume IV, Issue 2
ISO 9001:2008 Certified
THE DIVERSE, BEAUTIFUL & FRIENDLY SRI LANKA
Ryan Munro Embarks Upon a Journey of Activities, Culture & Adventure
The up and coming country of Sri Lanka can
be easily summarized as diverse, beautiful and
friendly. Regardless of the type of traveler, regardless of age or interest, this compact country
can offer you an array of day trips, sights you’d
like to see (and some you might not!) activities,
adventures, cultures, religions, wildlife, scenery,
relaxation and fun. The options selected will
not leave you disappointed as all provide a sense
of beauty in one way or another.
to purchase some fish for the night’s dinner,
Ryan and his group caught the attention of
about five other fishing boats and then created
their own seafood market out in the middle of
the ocean. Landing on beautiful islands in the
Indian Ocean not knowing locals, who thought
they had just arrived on their shores in space
ships, would greet them each time. Experiencing the best hospitality by these Sri Lankans who
offered to cook Ryan’s group dinner and let
them sleep in their shacks. Ryan even had the
Ryan Munro’s trip to Sri Lanka last spring was
not one to forget and he’s very proud of the
itinerary he put together. He saw beaches, historical monuments, cities, and mountains; went
on treks, sea kayaking and surfing; and hung out
in cities and ancient caves.
Here are SOME highlights of his trip:
Beach Relaxation – Hanging out in the fishing
town of Negombo.
Beach relaxation meant getting up early to view
all the fishing catamarans heading out to sea,
followed by breakfast, a walk along the beach
and sun-tanning, then he figured it was 5pm
(that’s 1700 Tony) somewhere so why not order
up a “Lion” beer. You cannot do all this alone
either, so he had walks with a lady from London, dinner dates with une nouvelle amie de
France (elle etait tres belle!!), very late night
drinks with a group of Americans teaching in
Kuwait (which almost caused “someone” to miss
there pick up for Sea Kayaking the next morning
AND to miss a dinner date with three Swedish
girls!)…Yes, Jason, Ryan knows you are shaking
your head right now!!
Outdoor Adventure – four day
Sea Kayak trip with Borderlands Sri Lanka (owned by a
Canadian).
This involved paddling in turquoise water along long
stretches of sandy beaches with
dolphins jumping out of the
water to say “hi”. After getting
the attention of one fishing boat
Page 14
chance to be surrounded by 10 kids all screaming out answers to the math questions he was
writing in the sand with a twig. The best night
of his trip was sleeping on the beach beside their
kayaks with just a sleeping bag, stars and waves
crashing, then being woken up that morning by
a lady who brought each of them a cup of coffee.
For having very little in possessions and living
what we would consider a hard lifestyle, Ryan
has never seen more smiling faces and better
hospitality in his life.
Volume IV, Issue 2
The SANDPAPER
NEWSLETTER FOR CANCA P EMPLOYEES & FAMILIES
ISO 9001:2008 Certified
RYAN MUNRO DISCOVERS SRI LANKA….continued
Historical/Cultural education – Sigiriya Rock
and the ancient city of Pollonuwura.
UNESCO
considers
Sigiriya Rock
the 8th wonder of the
world. It is an
ancient rock,
which stands
370 m above
sea level; it
boasts the
remains of
gardens, reservoirs, paintings
and other
structures. It
is a former
fortress from the 5th century BC used by kings
for protection. It’s a long, physical day to walk
all the way to the top but well worth it. It’s
probably one of the most amazing places Ryan
has ever been.
In Ryan’s words: “Those ancient people …
Wow!! Live simply eh?! That’s how it should be
done. If you’ve never gone to an ancient city…
put it on your list…well worth it.” So of course
Ryan has a story to tell. “On the Pollonuwura
tour we rented some bikes, we as in myself and
two Dutch girls…(yes they were good looking,
they were Dutch!) Two minutes down the road
towards the ruins area my seat cushion falls off,
then half way through the ancient city my chain
broke in half. Now wait there is always good in
every situation. Here young pretty Dutch girl
says ‘you sit on my bike, I’ll hold your hand and
pull you the rest of the way’…Everything happens for a reason.”
Travelling by local bus – Meeting locals.
A good handful of Ryan’s stories are due to his
use of local buses. By far the cheapest way to
travel in Sri Lanka, you can get a five hour ride
for only $1.50. If you include this type of travel
as part of what you want to do…you are in for a
treat. During his first bus ride, he ended up
helping a local through a seizure, and of course
being the only white person on the bus, they all
then looked at him as to say “what next, Mr.
white doctor!?!” Ryan was quite tired during
another ride,
so he decided
to lay his head
against the
window.
When he woke
up, he was being pressed against the window, as
the bus was so full (as they always are); someone
had placed a bag under his legs and a box on his
lap… “put it on the
white guy, he won’t
mind”. On another
ride, he was told to
get on the bus…
“How?” he replied,
there were about
five people hanging
out the door. He
did force himself on
and found that he
was pushed all the
way to the very back by the time he needed to
get out. He was also tricked into thinking there
were no more buses to the surf town of Arugam
Bay, then told “but wait my
good friend here can drive you
by tuk-tuk”…after arriving by
tuk-tuk, Ryan spoke with a
group who had just arrived by
bus. Ryan said that the three
hour tuk-tuk drive was well
worth it though and they were
even chased by an elephant!
Trekking – Adam’s Peak (Sri
Prada), Little Adam’s Peak, Ella
Rock.
Sri Lanka offered treks in pretty muchPage
every 15
The SANDPAPER
NEWSLETTER FOR CANCA P EMPLOYEES & FAMILIES
Volume IV, Issue 2
ISO 9001:2008 Certified
RYAN MUNRO DISCOVERS SRI LANKA….continued
area. Adam’s Peak, also referred to as Sri Prada,
in the small village of Delhouse, is considered a
holy mountain. The pilgrim season is from the
full moon in December until the full moon in
May, pilgrims ascend the mountain to pay their
respects to the sacred footmark, which is considered holy by Buddhists, Christians, Hindus and
Muslims. It is believed that this is the first place
that the first human, Adam, stepped foot when
he was sent from the heavens. Whatever you
believe, you cannot ignore the greatness that Sri
Prada is the only mountain in the world that
receives donations and respect from people belonging to different faiths. This is one of Sri
Lanka’s unique characteristics; four different
religions are observed and
respected by each citizen,
no matter what their faith
is. Ryan’s Sea Kayak
guide, Johanne, told him
that he loved this characteristic, as everyone celebrated each of the religions
holidays – they only work
about 110 days a year because of all the holidays.
The idea of the Sri Prada
trek is to leave at 0200, so
you are at the top for sunrise. The view from the
Page 16
top is apparently one of the nicest views you will
ever see. Ryan decided to leave at 2100 the
night before, why? He can’t answer that, he was
on vacation and really didn’t know what time it
was!! He arrived at the top by midnight, decided
to get out of the rain by ducking into a little
tarped shack, laid down on the dirt ground resting his head on his pack and woke up about 4
hours later with a bunch of locals sitting around
looking at him. Again, they all just smiled and
greeted him. When Ryan arrived at midnight it
was all black nothing and when he awoke in the
morning, it was all white nothing. So much for
the apparently beautiful view...NO view… just
clouds and unfortunately, it poured rain. Reasons to come back to visit again!
If you find yourself in Sri Lanka, Ryan suggested
that you visit the small town of Ella. He did a
short morning trek to Little Adam’s Peak and a
full day trek up Ella Rock. Both offer majestic
views of the surrounding area full of tea plantations. Also to note near Ella is the Ella Falls…
There is a short hike up the falls that not many
people knew about. This is where he found
himself all alone taking pictures, thinking,
dreaming and having a nap. The having a nap
part directly beside a waterfall by yourself is not
recommended.
Ryan would like to share all his stories in detail
but there is not enough room in this article. Of
Volume IV, Issue 2
The SANDPAPER
NEWSLETTER FOR CANCA P EMPLOYEES & FAMILIES
ISO 9001:2008 Certified
RYAN MUNRO DISCOVERS SRI LANKA….continued
all you have to do is say no once and they stop
or go away. Tourists do pay more, much more
than a local for touristy sites…about 200% more.
Ryan’s only disappointment with Sri Lanka is
that it lacks the “party scene”. According to
Ryan, “Once 1800 comes around it’s like everybody went to Arby’s for the roast beef sale.” He
would not go to Sri Lanka to party; however, he
would go for its magnificence! Thayavu Saitu!! Thank-you Ryan!
all the countries he has visited so far, he strongly
suggests Sri Lanka for it’s friendly people, beautiful scenery, low costs and variety. It is a very
small country so in one month you can get the
feeling that you have seen most of it. English is
widely spoken, which always makes things easier.
It is currently a growing country economically;
therefore you should expect almost every person
you meet will be asking for money, whether they
are trying to sell you something, simply begging,
or expecting that you pay them for showing you
where the bathrooms are. Not to worry though
Page 17
The SANDPAPER
NEWSLETTER FOR CANCA P EMPLOYEES & FAMILIES
Volume IV, Issue 2
ISO 9001:2008 Certified
IT’S A WONDERFUL NIGHT FOR A MOONDANCE….
Last BBQ at the Oasis—Farewell to a Special Place
On August 25 , 2011, a very special event
th
Thanks to Chris Kerr for
the photos of the last
BBQ!!
took place in Canada 5 – the CANCAP Close
Out BBQ!!!!
This was an extra special BBQ, a chance to say
a final good-bye and thank-you to the OASIS
for hosting the CANCAP team over the years;
for all the coffee, movies, TV, books, and social
gatherings that have been held there.
The evening officially got underway at 7pm
(after an hour of beer call and socializing) with
some Closing Ceremony speeches, and presentations. 8 individuals were presented with their
General Service Medals, by BGen Lamarre, a
unique honour for our CANCAP employees!
BGen Lamarre spoke to the group about the
history of civilian contractors working with the
Canadian Forces, and emphasized how important CANCAP’s
role has been to the success of
the mission. MCU CO, LCol
Tattersall then spoke about the
monumental undertaking going
on with the close-out of Canadian operations at KAF, and how
important the civilian presence
has been to her unit throughout
this process.
Ian Malcolm kept the evening
rolling along with a wonderful
Program Manager Ian Malcolm provides the crowd with a
slide show presentation, created
slideshow of KAF Memories.
with the assistance of Sunny Fonjong. It was a great look back at
CANCAP history here at KAF, a chance to see
familiar faces, many of whom are still here, and
the rest who were here and left their mark on
the CANCAP community over the years.
Capt. Van SmeerDyk GP provided everyone
with a wonderful Benediction, a blessing as we
move onwards and upwards, remembering the
work we did here, and the lives we touched. It
has been reprinted here so that we may consider his words through the next phases of our
lives.
Page 18
God of all,
We believe that the purpose of life is to make a
difference that we lived at all, and our CANCAPers have made a huge difference for our
Canadian Forces in Afghanistan.
We are aware that nothing does itself….machines don’t fix themselves, vehicles
don’t drive themselves, buildings don’t build or
maintain themselves, food, clothing and spare
parts don’t supply themselves, contracts don’t
administer themselves, and projects don’t plan
themselves.
Dedicated to making life easier for the soldiers,
our CANCAPers have done all these things and
more. We are grateful for each member of this
team, many who have given years of service to
our soldiers, and have shared the same hardships and difficulties. We remember their sacrifices, as we also remember Marc Cyr who died
while in service.
Now, as they leave here to serve in another
place, we pray for divine guidance in their every
thought, intention and action.
May the love of God overshadow you from
above, uphold you from beneath, guide you from
before, protect you from behind, make you able
for all things from within, and reward your faithfulness to our soldiers with a joy and peace which
the world cannot give or take away.
Amen
Volume IV, Issue 2
The SANDPAPER
NEWSLETTER FOR CANCA P EMPLOYEES & FAMILIES
ISO 9001:2008 Certified
Last BBQ at the Oasis….continued….
Following the Padre’s words of blessing, Sunday
“Sunny” Fonjong, SNC Lavalin PAE Inc.’s longest
serving employee, supporting the CF as part of
CANCAP since 2003, lowered the Canadian Flag,
the official end of the OASIS and all it stood for –
Community, Shelter, Friendship. Heather Pearson
A fabulous Ice Cream Sundae
Bar made dessert time super fun!
Throughout dinner, a slideshow,
created by Sunny Fonjong,
played on the blast wall for all to
see. Much laughter and comments could be heard as the
slideshow played, and it was a
great addition to the evening.
The evening continued with the
Manager’s awards, lottery and
50/50 draw, and then the music
began. It was truly a fantastic
evening for dancing under the
stars, as we were entertained by
the KAF band “Gray PooPond”,
a group who formed through the music club on
KAF, and consisted of military members, and
on the drums, our own Doug Jennings!! They
kept the place hopping for the evening with
their great Rock ’N ’ Roll sound. Thanks guys!!
Many people have commented that this was
“the best CANCAP BBQ ever”, and if this is
true, it was because of the teamwork of the OASIS Social Committee, MMD, and the extra
volunteers who helped with so many aspects of
making this event a special one. Heather Pearson
CANCAP HR Coordinator
Sunday “Sunny” Fonjong, CANCAP’s longest serving employee, who has supported CANCAP since 2003, lowers the
Canadian Flag at the Oasis as Heather Pearson sings the
National Anthem.
graced the crowd with the singing of the Canadian
National Anthem, bringing tears to the eyes of
many of the CANCAPers as they reflected upon
their time in KAF.
Thanks to the generosity of PMOO, who provided
the OASIS Social Committee with an increased
budget, we had some great food for the last blast at
the OASIS, and we all filled up on steaks, chicken,
and sausages grilled up by our fantastic BBQ team
led by Bruce Mitchell.
CANCAPers who received their General Service Medals at the last BBQ—
presented by B.Gen. Lamarre.
Page 19
The SANDPAPER
NEWSLETTER FOR CANCA P EMPLOYEES & FAMILIES
Volume IV, Issue 2
ISO 9001:2008 Certified
RTC Profile
A Busy Crew as the Missions Draws Down
Who has a job that’s so cool even the GenThanks to Chris Kerr for
the RTC Profile photos.
eral wants to jump in and lend a hand? The
amazing folks of RTC of course! Some of you
may be asking yourselves – WHO IS RTC????
Well, here is the info you need to answer that
very question!
RTC stands for Relocatable Temporary Camps.
They are a section of the
CANCAP Construction
Engineering Department. They work directly with the Task
Force Kandahar, Engineering Support Squadron (TFK / ESS). This
is a military section that
is primarily based in
Kandahar, Afghanistan.
Our CANCAP employees are the civilian component of this Canadian
Forces section.
In theatre, the CANCAP employees have the
Page 20
title of Warehouse Technician, although they
have no physical warehouse that they work out
of, as the open air, and the entire base is their
work location!
The job involves the stocking and disposition of
all items necessary for the construction and
maintenance of temporary structures, both outside the wire and at Kandahar Air Field. These
temporary structures include the following:
Tents (such as our Canada 5 Weather Havens),
Maintenance Shelters, Sprung Shelters, Hangars,
Ballistic ISOs, De-Trainers, Generators, Fuel
and Water Pumps (and associated hoses), Storage Tanks, and Blivets (rubberized fuel tanks).
During TFK operational combat, the RTC section supported the manoeuvre elements by providing these temporary shelters and all necessary
equipment for the construction and maintenance of tactical infrastructures outside the wire.
As part of the mission transition phase of TFK,
RTC section has been busy recovering assets
from outside the wire, bringing them back to
KAF for their disposal and / or return to Canada, where they will be prepared for future operations.
Volume IV, Issue 2
The SANDPAPER
NEWSLETTER FOR CANCA P EMPLOYEES & FAMILIES
ISO 9001:2008 Certified
Inside the wire, RTC section is most visible when
dealing with the Weather Haven tents. In 2010
they were responsible for the tear-down of the
original ROLE 3 hospital (you know - the one you
see on “Combat Hospital”!), and in the past few
weeks, with the tear down of the Weather Haven
Tents in Canada 5, they have been very very busy,
so busy that even the General paid a visit to lend a
hand! On his first visit, he thrilled the RTC team
when he took off his uniform jacket and jumped
into the fray to help the team out. Since then, he
has visited a few times to check in on the team,
talk to them about their contribution to the process of closing out Canada’s role in southern Afghanistan, and provide some much needed encouragement (especially on those long, hot, dirty days!).
His support and interest in the RTC section was
appreciated by military and civilian team members
alike. Heather Pearson
CANCAP HR Coordinator
Page 21
PROFESSIONALS PROVIDING SOLUTIONS
SNC-Lavalin PAE Inc. Newsletter for CANCAP Employees & Families
SNC-Lavalin PAE Inc.
170 Laurier Ave. West, Suite 1104
Ottawa, ON, Canada K1P 5V5
ISO 9001:2008 Certified
Phone: 613-565-7853
Fax: 613-565-8245
Email: [email protected]
The SANDPAPER
AIM:
To provide the highest quality services to
our client while achieving our corporate goals.
Volume IV, Issue 2
CORE VALUES:
Integrity, Empathy, Respect,
Initiative, Teamwork, Stewardship, Commitment
SUMMER/FALL 2011
Editors:
Carla Dawes
Cheryl Samek
GOAL:
To be recognized as a
world-class provider of support services
to the Canadian Forces in Deployed Operations.
Thank-you to the following people
who contributed stories, photos and
content to this issue:
Peter Budansew
Chris Kerr
Alan Leek
Ralph Mahar
Ian Malcolm
Ryan Munro
Heather Pearson
This is YOUR newsletter, so get involved and share your
knowledge, news, thoughts, anecdotes and insights.
WANT YOUR FAMILY TO BE IN
ON ALL THE LATEST
CANCAP NEWS?
If you would like to add your
friends or family members to
our distribution list, please send
their email addresses to:
Please send articles, feedback, ideas, photos and anything
else you’d like to contribute to The SANDPAPER to
[email protected]
Deadline for submissions for our LAST issue
(Volume IV, Issue 3) is November 1, 2011.
Get your creative juices flowing and contribute as soon as you can!
We look forward to it...
[email protected]
SNC-Lavalin PAE Inc. is a joint venture between SNC-Lavalin Defence Programs Inc.—a member of the SNC-Lavalin Group, and PAE Government Services
Canada Inc.—a Lockheed Martin company. These two global leaders have partnered to deliver the Canadian Contractor Augmentation Program (CANCAP)
supporting Canadian Forces overseas deployments. CANCAP currently supports the Canadian Forces mission in Kandahar, Afghanistan.
Visit our parent company websites:
www.paegroup.com
www.snclavalinom.com