Pro Patria 2013 - The Royal Canadian Regiment

Transcription

Pro Patria 2013
Regimental Journal of
The Royal Canadian Regiment
The PRO PATRIA
January 2015, Issue 95
Editor
Capt R. A. Appleton
Technical Assistant:
Cpl Alexander Perry
Layout & Design:
Lisa Twomey, Creative Spark Graphic Design
[email protected]
For information about receiving
PRO PATRIA, joining The RCR Association, or
to request a change of address, please direct
correspondence to:
Regimental Adjutant,
RHQ, The RCR
Victoria Barracks
PO Box 9999, Stn Main
Petawawa, ON, K8H 2X3
Phone:
(613) 687-5511, ext 5086
Facsimile:
(613) 588-5932
PRO PATRIA 2013 3
PRO PATRIA 2013
Issue 95
Front cover: 27 April 2013, Queen’s Park, Toronto. 3rd Battalion The Royal Canadian Regiment receives its new
Regimental Colour from the hand of the Colonel-in-Chief, HRH The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.
Back Cover: During the Korean War, Warrant Officers and Sergeants of 1 RCR celebrate Pachino Day in Korea, 10 July
1952. At this time 1 RCR was temporarily in reserve on the Kansas Line, south of the Imjin River.
THE EDITOR’S DESK
As always, I would like to pay tribute to my colleagues
for their outstanding assistance with Pro Patria 2013. Ms.
Lisa Twomey of Creative Spark Design is our Regimental
journal’s graphic artist and technical consultant and has
been since 2008. The quality and professional look of
the design and layout of the magazine are a result of Ms.
Twomey’s technical excellence and imagination. Corporal
Alex Perry, as technical assistant, with his diligence and
hard work has once again made an important contribution
to the magazine’s production. The Regimental Major,
Major Paul Gauthier, and his successor, Major Brian Wright,
gave wholehearted support and helped considerably by
Capt R.A. Appleton,
insuring minimal distractions while the editing process was
Regimental Adjutant
ongoing. To the many Royals who have contributed articles
and photographs I would like to take this opportunity to offer my great appreciation and
sincere thanks.
2013 was another busy year that featured many challenging but rewarding Regimental
events.
An overarching theme throughout 2013 was Canada’s involvement in the Korean War,
1950-53. Indeed, Veterans Affairs Canada designated 2013 as the Year of the Canadian
Korean War Veteran, with 25 July 2013 marking the 60th anniversary of the armistice that
brought an official end to hostilities in Korea. The Royal Canadian Regiment played a
significant role in the Korean conflict, with each of its three battalions serving in Korea: 2
RCR, 1951-52; 1 RCR, 1952-53; and 3 RCR, 1953-54. Song Gok Spur, Kowang-San, and
Hill 187 are battles that resound in our Regiment’s storied history. As many as 148 Royal
Canadians died as a result of service in the Korean War. Sadly, during 2013 many of our
Regiment’s Korean War Veterans have passed away.
In terms of Regimental operations, arguably the highlight of the year was the Royal Visit
of HRH The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. Taking place at Toronto during 26-27 April
2013, the visit was marked by a series of colourful and memorable interconnected events.
The climax of the Royal Visit occurred at Queen’s Park, Toronto on 27 April when the officers
and men of the 3rd Battalion The Royal Canadian Regiment mounted a truly splendid
Trooping of the Colours. During this parade a new Regimental Colour was consecrated and
then presented to the Battalion by Prince Philip. This was most fitting in a year which saw
Prince Philip celebrate 60 years as our Colonel-in-Chief.
The 130th Anniversary Regimental Reunion took place at St. John’s, Newfoundland over
the weekend of 02-04 August 2013. For all those Royals who made the long trip to “The
Rock,” the reunion exceeded all expectations. Old friendships were renewed, cherished
4 PRO PATRIA 2013
memories recalled, and the time honoured expression, “Once a Royal, Always a Royal!”
was re-affirmed. The viewing of an heroic commemorative bust of our long-time Colonelin-Chief, Prince Philip, and the ceremonial “Screeching In” of guests from the Mainland,
were but two of the Regimental Reunion’s highlights. The Regiment owes a resounding
thank you to the Newfoundland Branch of The RCR Association and in particular to the
Branch President MWO Bruce King and his organizing committee for hosting and staging
this resoundingly successful reunion.
On 05 December 2013 at a Regimental Mess Dinner taking place at Wolseley Barracks,
London, Ontario, television celebrity and home renovation expert Mike Holmes was named
as a Patron of The Royal Canadian Regiment. In this appointment he joins Ms. Judith Irving
of Rothesay, New Brunswick, who was invested as the first Patron of the Regiment on 05
June 2012. All Royals heartily welcome Mr. Holmes into our Regimental family and look
forward to a long association.
On 08 December 2013 a remarkable regimental landmark was attained. This date marked
the 60th anniversary of the investiture of HRH The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh
as Colonel-in-Chief of The Royal Canadian Regiment. This anniversary had been
commemorated earlier in the year, on 26 June, by the presentation of a bust of Prince
Philip, depicted in Regimental full dress uniform, at Canada House in London, England.
The bust had been commissioned by the Regiment and sculpted by well-known Canadian
artist, Christian Corbet. Prince Philip and The Royal Canadian Regiment have enjoyed a
very close association and all Royal Canadians look forward to that relationship continuing
for many years to come.
Sadly, the year of 2013 marked the passing of 73 Royals. Many of these departed comrades
were veterans of our nation’s past wars, especially the Korean War. All will be deeply missed
and all will be remembered. Among the departed were two Regimental giants: LieutenantGeneral John Elwood “Jack” Vance and Major-General Dan Gordon Loomis. Both men
played decisive roles in the history of our Regiment.
The digitization of Pro Patria magazine continues with the latest edition of the magazine.
In fact Pro Patria 2013 will already be available online through the Regimental Website
prior to the actual printing of the magazine. Members of the Regiment now can receive
a hard copy and can also access the electronic version. The intent is to eventually reduce
production costs by reducing the number of hard copies printed, though some hard copies
will continue to be produced in sufficient numbers for those who lack access to personal
computers.
A significant historical watershed looms in the coming year of 2014. The Canadian military
mission in Afghanistan will finally come to an end as of March 2014. The war in Afghanistan
has been the longest conflict in our nation’s history. The photographs included in the “Last
Word” section of Pro Patria 2013 recall our Regiment’s noteworthy contribution to this
campaign.
Captain Ross Appleton
Regimental Adjutant
EDITOR’S NOTE: CORRECTION - In Pro Patria 2012, Issue 94, on Page 169, an unfortunate
error occurred in the caption related to the top-most photo on this page. The Royal Canadian
on the left is erroneously referred to as Rick Dick. He is in fact Dave DeClere from Windsor, ON.
PRO PATRIA 2013 5
CONTENTS
Colonel of the Regiment ................................................................................................... 7
Regimental Council...........................................................................................................10
Regimental mentors..........................................................................................................13
1 RCR.................................................................................................................................14
Individual Submission....................................................................................................... 27
2 RCR................................................................................................................................ 31
3 RCR................................................................................................................................ 51
4 RCR................................................................................................................................ 67
ERE................................................................................................................................... 87
Individual Submission..................................................................................................... 111
The RCR Association ..................................................................................................... 123
The RCR Museum .......................................................................................................... 142
Departed Comrades ...................................................................................................... 153
Individual Submission .................................................................................................... 177
Forms ............................................................................................................................. 207
The Last Word ............................................................................................................... 214
6 PRO PATRIA 2013
COLONEL OF THE REGIMENT
Before I started to write these words, I took the time
to review the past couple of issues of “Pro Patria”
to see what themes have emerged over my tenure
as Colonel. Three things struck me, these being
“Excellence”, “Tempo” and “Continuity”.
I am always struck by the number of notifications
I see about members of The Regiment who have
been promoted, decorated or appointed to or
retired from high office. I read about promotions
within our units virtually every week, and I am
always gratified that we continue to develop and
Colonel W.J. Aitchison, OMM, CD
recognize talent at every rank level on an ongoing
basis to ensure the best possible leadership
within the fighting elements of The Regiment and,
where we are given or create the opportunity, in the larger forum of the Army and the
Canadian Armed Forces. The same is true when we are advised that Royal Canadians
have been recognized by the Canadian Government or by an allied force through
their having been awarded medals for outstanding service, meritorious performance
or valour in the face of our enemies. While we have historically been known as
being conservative in awarding honours, there can be no doubt that those which are
accorded to our soldiers are richly merited and deserving of being worn with pride.
Recognition in whatever form reinforces that we are achieving the aims of our slogan,
“Never Pass a Fault”, which itself describes the search for excellence in all we do, to a
commendable and consistent degree. And that should be gratifying to all of us.
The year 2013 once again illustrated how busy our units are, and the unit sections
of this journal underscore that statement. Notwithstanding the “wind-down” from
operations in Afghanistan, every unit and sub-unit of The Regiment seems to be
actively and energetically
engaged in developing,
honing and reinforcing
the wide range of soldier
skills that are demanded
on the modern battlefield.
Add to this ongoing
focus the wide range of
“special” activities that
are being planned and
executed – Regimental
and battalion days such
as Paardeberg and Hill
187, the presentation of
a Regimental Colour to 3
RCR, changes of command
in 2 RCR and 3 RCR, the
3 RCR commemorates 60th anniversary of the battle of Hill 187 at Foulkes Barracks, 15 May
130th Regimental reunion
2013. L-R: Col W.J. Aitchison, Lt. Ed Mastronardi, MC (Ret’d), Lt. John Woods (Ret’d), LCol D.N.
planned and executed by
Quick, SMV, CD – CO 3 RCR.
the RCR Association, and
PRO PATRIA 2013 7
Left: HRH Prince Philip presents a new Regimental Colour to 3 RCR
at Queen’s Park, Toronto, 27 April 2013.
Above: The Colonel of the Regiment with HRH The Prince Philip, 26
At Port Charlotte, Florida, 21 Dec
April 2013 at the Royal York Hotel, Toronto. L-R: Col W.J. Aitchison,
2013. Col WJ Aitchison, Colonel of the
HRH Prince Philip, LGen P.J. Devlin.
Regiment, and Col Mike Houghton
(Ret’d) celebrate the Regiment’s 130th
the recognition of our Colonel-in-Chief’s 60 years of engagement with and support to The
Regiment, and it has been a very busy year indeed. High tempo can be both exciting and
enervating, so it behoves us to “track” both planning and execution to ensure we get
the best bang for the taxpayers’ buck and our soldiers’ endurance and are focusing our
efforts on “should dos” and “should knows” to an appropriate degree. When we “stack”
chain of command taskings and unit-generated activities, we need to be conscious of
the fact that there are limits of time, resources, energy and interest that need to be
respected. Keep this in mind and don’t overextend.
You’ll note from the comments above (if you needed to be reminded) that HRH The
Prince Philip marked his 60th year as Colonel-in-Chief of our Regiment in December of
2013. To recognize this historic anniversary, The Regiment commissioned a well-know
and supremely talented Canadian sculptor, Christian Corbet, to render a “life bust” of
His Royal Highness. The work, which is currently on display at The RCR Museum, is a
one and one-half times life-size depiction of the Prince in regimental full-dress uniform.
I was fortunate to travel to the UK with a
small group from RHQ to officially unveil
The 3 RCR Change of Command Parade, Kiska Beach,
the bust in May of this year. Regrettably,
Petawawa, 06 June 2013. Col Aitchison presents LCol Dave
Prince Philip was recovering from surgery
Quick, the outgoing CO of 3 RCR, with his CO’s Statuette.
and was not present at the unveiling. The
Prince was in fact represented by HRH Prince
Edward, Duke of Kent. Prince Philip has
agreed to accept a copy of the bust for the
Royal Collection, and I anticipate presenting
him with it in the summer of 2014 – watch
this space in next year’s Pro Patria. HRH’s
long association with, and support of, our
Regiment, is the kind of continuity to which I
refer. Mrs Jean Snow, now in her 108th year,
has been associated with The RCR since she
married then-Lieutenant Eric Snow in 1926
– now some 87 years ago - and she is the
early “book-end” of the Regimental family to
which we all belong. Other manifestations of
this continuity, though not necessarily of 60
8 PRO PATRIA 2013
birthday with the traditional Ortona
Toast.
Unveiling ceremony of the bust of HRH Prince Philip, Canada House, London, UK, 26
June 2013. L-R: Christian Corbet – the Regimental Sculptor, Col W.J. Aitchison, HRH the
Duke of Kent, Gordon Campbell – Canadian High Commissioner to the UK.
years’ duration are to be found throughout The RCR, often
in the Warrant Officers’ and Sergeants’ Mess and certainly
in the Association. The December 2013 appointment of
Mr Mike Holmes as our second “Patron” is another form of
ensuring continuity, in this case, of our excellent relationship
with the Canadian public. Whatever our age or length
of service, we all represent a part of the continuity of the
Regiment. We are 130 years old! That makes us one of the
longest-standing national institutions in Canada, which is
itself only 146 years old. Remember this when you ponder
your place in the Nation and The Regiment. You are the
continuity that will outlast Jean Snow, or HRH or me. Strome
Galloway opined that men live, and men die, but The
Regiment lives on. He was right, but only insofar as other
men come to the Colours to ensure the continuity of The
RCR. Thank you all for having done so!
Pro Patria
Top left: The 130th Regimental
Anniversary Reunion, St. John’s,
Newfoundland, 02 August 2013.
Col Aitchison presents Colonel of
the Regiment Commendation to
WO Bruce King, President of the
Newfoundland Branch of the RCR
Association.
Top right: Mike Holmes is named
a Patron of the Regiment at Mess
Dinner, Wolseley Barracks, London,
ON, 05 December 2013. Standing
next to Col Aitchison, Mike Holmes
participates in the Ortona Toast.
Colonel Joe
PRO PATRIA 2013 9
THE ROYAL CANADIAN REGIMENT COUNCIL
THE REGIMENTAL SENATE
As of Dec 2013
As of printing Feb 2015
Chairman
BGen J.B. Simms, OMM, MSM, CD
LGen J.H. Vance, CMM, MSC, CD
Regimental Secretary
LCol M. Lipcsey, MSM, CD
LCol A.T. Ruff, MSC, CD
Colonel of The Regiment
Col W.J. Aitchison, OMM, CD
Former Colonels of The Regiment
MGen W.M. Holmes, MBE, MSM, CD
MGen T.F. de Faye, CMM, CD
MGen W.M. Holmes, MBE, MSM, CD
MGen T.F. de Faye, CMM, CD
Honorary Lieutenant-Colonel 4 RCR
Col W.J. Pettipas, CD
Serving General Officers of The RCR
MGen D.W. Thompson, OMM, MSC, CD
BGen M.P. Jorgensen, OMM, MSM, CD
BGen O.H. Lavoie, OMM, MSC, CD
BGen M.J. Pearson, MSC, CD
BGen M.P. Jorgensen, OMM, MSM, CD
BGen O.H. Lavoie, OMM, MSC, CD
BGen S.J.R. Whelan, OMM, MSM, CD
Chairman REC
Col J.P. Davis, MSC, CD
Col R.B. Ewing, OMM, CD
Regimental Colonel
Col R.D. Walker, MSC, CD
Chairman The RCR Association
LCol R.W. McBride, OMM, CD (Ret’d)
Members
Chairman of the Advisory Board
(as appointed by the Colonel of The Regiment)
Vacant
THE REGIMENTAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE ... CONTINUED
As of Dec 2013
RCWO
CWO M.L. Baisley, MMM, MSC, CD
CWO S.G. Hartnell, MMM, MSM, CD
RSM 1 RCR
CWO K.R. Donovan, MMM, MSM, CD
CWO L.D.J. Lavoie, MSM, CD
RSM 2 RCR
CWO E.J. Rolfe, MSM, CD
RSM 3 RCR
CWO K.M. Olstad, MMM, CD
CWO W.P. Fudge, CD
RSM 4 RCR
CWO H. Klausnitzer, CD
Treasurer – Regimental Major
Maj P.N.R. Gauthier, CD
Maj B.J. Wright, CD
Secretary – Regimental Adjutant
Capt R.A. Appleton, CD
Capt R.A. Appleton, CD
Any other persons appointed by the Colonel of The Regiment
NON-GOVERNING BODIES WITHIN THE REGIMENT
THE RCR TRUS T
As of Dec 2013
Chairman
Col W.N. Peters, CD (Ret’d)
Vice-Chairman
CWO D. Bradley, MSM, CD (Ret’d)
CWO D. Bradley, MSM, CD (Ret’d)
Col J.S. Shipley, MSM, CD
Treasurer
Maj W.D.O. Nolan, OMM, CD (Ret’d)
Maj W.D.O. Nolan, OMM, CD (Ret’d)
Secretary
Maj C.G. Carbert, CD (Ret’d)
Maj G.C. Carbert, CD
Chairman Association
LCol M.A. Lipcsey, MSM, CD
Regimental Major
Maj B.J. Wright, CD
Member
BGen G.J.P. O’Brien, OMM, MSC, CD (Ret’d)
Member
CWO R.P.M. Talach, CD
CWO R.P.M. Talach, CD
As of Dec 2013
Chairman
Honorary LCol 4 RCR
Regimental Major
Maj B.J. Wright, CD
Regimental Chief Warrant Officer
Chairman Trust
Secretary, Director/Curator
Dr. Georgiana Stanciu
Dr. Georgiana Stanciu
Members
Col M.E.K. Campbell, CD
Col M.E.K. Campbell, CD
LCol M. Hand, CD (Ret’d)
LCol M. Hand, CD (Ret’d)
Vacant
RCWO
CWO S.G. Hartnell, MMM, MSM, CD
Immediate Past Chairman of the Senate
Immediate Past RCWO
CWO M.R. Hornbrook, MMM, CD
THE RCR MUSEUM BOARD
Any other persons appointed by the Colonel of the Regiment
THE REGIMENTAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
As of Dec 2013
Chairman
Col J.P. Davis, MSC, CD
Col R.B. Ewing, OMM, CD
President - Regimental Secretary
Colonel of The Regiment
Regimental Colonel
Col R.D. Walker, MSC, CD
Col J.S. Shipley, MSM, CD
CO 1 RCR
LCol J. D. Price, CD
LCol J.C. Guiney, CD
CO 2 RCR
LCol R.N. Washburn, MSM, CD
CO 3 RCR
LCol R.W. McBride, MSM, CD
Capt C. Collison, CD (Ret’d)
Capt C. Collison, CD (Ret’d)
CO 4 RCR
LCol J.W. Robinson, CD
Dr. J. Vance
Dr. J. Vance
Chairman The RCR Trust Fund
Ms. Ann Fleming
Ms. Ann Fleming
Chairman The RCR Association
Mr. P. Fox
Mr. P. Fox
Members
10 PRO PATRIA 2013
PRO PATRIA 2013 11
BATTLE HONOURS
(The battle honours in bold are entitled to be borne on the Regimental Colour of each Battalion.)
REGIMENTAL MENTORS
R
egimental Mentors (typically Majors or Lieutenant-Colonels) and Assistant Mentors
(typically Master Warrant Officers or Chief Warrant Officers) will be appointed by the
Regimental Colonel and directed to maintain a system of personal communications with
each member of the Regiment on the list provided to the Mentors annually by Regimental
Headquarters. Mentorship will be based on the most logical mix of geography and
organizational criteria such that all members of the Regiment and especially those on ExtraRegimental Employment (ERE) have a Mentor who is accessible and who understands the
particular working environment of the member. Where the workload demands it, additional
Assistant Mentors may be appointed to handle specific geographic areas, units or circumstances.
Unit Mentors will be the Commanding Officer and Regimental Sergeant-Major. The whole
system of Regimental Mentors is presided over by the Regimental Colonel, with assistance as
required from the Regimental Chief Warrant Officer.
Detroit
Scarpe, 1917, 1918
San Leonardo
Niagara
Hill 70
The Gully
Defence of Canada, 1812-15
Passchendaele
Ortona
Saskatchewan
Amiens
Cassino II
North-West Canada, 1885
Drocourt -Queant
Gustav Line
Paardeberg
Hindenburg Line
Liri Valley
South Africa, 1899-1900
Canal du Nord
Hitler Line
Ypres 1915, 1917
Cambrai, 1918
Gothic Line
Gravenstafel
Pursuit to Mons
Lamone Crossing
St. Julien
France & Flanders, 1915-18
Misano Ridge
MENTOR REGIONS and UNITS
Festubert, 1915
Landing in Sicily
Rimini Line
Current as of 24 November 2014
Mount Sorrel
Valguarnera
San Martino-San Lorenzo
Somme, 1916
Agira
Pisciatello
Pozieres
Adrano
Fosso Vecchio
Flers-Courcelette
Regalbuto
Italy, 1943-1945
Ancre Heights
Sicily 1943
Apeldoorn
Arras 1917, 1918
Landing at Reggio
North-West Europe, 1945
Vimy 1917
Motta Montecorvino
Korea, 1951-1953
Arleux
Campobasso
Afghanistan
Torella
Colonel-in-Chief: Field Marshall HRH The Prince Philip
Duke of Edinburgh, KG, KT, OM, OIM, GBE, ID, AC, ONZ,
QSO, GCL, CC, CMM, CD, PC
Colonel of the Regiment: Colonel W.J. Aitchison, OMM, CD
Allied with: The Rifles
The Royal Regiment of Fusiliers
The Jamaica Regiment
NB: in April 2014 the Government of Canada awarded several Canadian regiments, including The Royal Canadian
Regiment, the Battle Honour ``Afghanistan`` in recognition of service in the Afghanistan campaign. At this time the
potential exists for other Battle Honours from this campaign to be awarded to the Regiment
12 PRO PATRIA 2013
The Royal Canadian Regiment has Mentors located across the country and internationally.
Visit our website at www.TheRoyalCanadianRegiment.ca or contact RHQ to confirm who the
Mentor in your area is currently.
1.1st Battalion The Royal Canadian Regiment: LCol Jason Guiney;
CWO Lewis Lavoie.
2.2nd Battalion The Royal Canadian Regiment: LCol Russ Washburn;
CWO Eric Rolfe.
3.3rd Battalion The Royal Canadian Regiment: LCol Rob McBride;
CWO Bill Fudge.
4.4th Battalion The Royal Canadian Regiment: LCol Joe Robinson;
CWO Henry Klausnitzer.
5. Petawawa-Based ERE: LCol Will Graydon; CWO Keith Olstad.
6.Ontario Not Otherwise Covered: LCol Kim Lapointe; WO Merlin
Longphie.
7.4th Canadian Division Training Centre: Maj Tim Kenney;
MWO Kevin Venus.
8. Gagetown: LCol Cayle Oberwarth; CWO Dominic Chenard.
9. Maritimes: Maj Mark Anthony; WO Cecil Elliott;
10.Ottawa (NCR) and Environs, and Quebec: LCol Alex Ruff;
MWO Darryl Anderson.
11.CANSOFCOM: Maj Paul Comeau; Maj Jay Lachine; CWO Tom Verner;
LCol Eric Pellicano.
12. Kingston: LCol Jim Muth; MWO Rob MacRae.
13. Trenton: Capt Andrew McGregor; MWO Doug Sheppard.
14. Toronto: LCol Simon Rushen.
15. The North and Western Canada: LCol Sean Trenholm.
16. USA: LCol Ken Butterworth.
17.Other Internationally Posted Personnel (including the UK and Europe):
Col Joe Shipley; CWO Stu Hartnell.
PRO PATRIA 2013 13
Right: Cpl Richard Beckford enjoying a dip in frigid water during workup training
1st Battalion
for Op NUNALIVUT.
THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH’S COMPANY
LCol J.D. Price, CD
1 RCR
“Don’t worry – it’s a ‘dry cold’ up there”. No doubt
this phrase was uttered around the start of 2013, as the
soldiers of the Duke’s Company kicked into an intense
winter training cycle to prepare for a deployment
to Devon Island – high in the Arctic – as part of Op
NUNALIVUT 2013. Drawing on the expertise of Advanced
Winter Warfare experts both within the battalion and at
the Canadian Forces Land Advanced Warfare Training
Centre (CFLAWC), the company prepared itself to
operate in extreme arctic conditions by training in areas
such as advanced navigation methods, construction and
operation of qamutiks, and surviving immersion in cold
water. In addition, no less than four LOSV (snowmobile)
courses were run in order to ensure that virtually the
entire company was qualified to operate what would
be the primary mode of transportation. Unfortunately,
the company’s participation in Op NUNALIVUT was
ultimately cancelled but, as is always the case, all
training is good training and soldiers gained valuable
knowledge that will no doubt be put to use in the future.
In July, while most of the company went on leave with
the rest of the Battalion, a composite platoon based
on 3 Platoon was tasked with supporting the Patrol
Pathfinder course. The soldiers involved gained valuable
experience conducting transitional operations with
course candidates, most of which they are not normally
exposed to.
Middle: 2 Pl HQ consolidates on the objective as part of the combined arms attack
demonstration during Ex COLLABORATIVE SPIRIT, Oct 2013.
Bottom: The Duke’s Coy mans a water point during the early hours of the 2013
Ironman Competition.
where all individual and collective warfighting skills
were truly put to the test on a coy-level live fire event
that included a deliberate coy mechanized attack
followed by a bridge defense. As always, The Duke’s
Coy prevailed and the enemy was vanquished.
October proved to be a particularly busy month. 1
Platoon deployed on CANSOFCOM Ex NORTH STAR,
playing the role of OPFOR and Host Nation Security
Force (HNSF) for the primary training audience. In
doing so they were exposed to new SOPs and TTPs
that can now be added to their own toolbox for future
training and operations. As well, 2 Platoon – along
with attached engineers and a FOO/FAC party –
executed a combined arms attack demonstration as
part of Ex COLLABORATIVE SPIRIT 2013, an exercise
aimed at demonstrating the combat capabilities
of 2 CMBG for various groups, including Canada
Company, JCSP candidates, and CAF/DND VIPs.
As a productive training year came to a close, The
Duke’s Coy was well positioned to take on the
challenges of 2014, most specifically Ex MAPLE
The company also changed hands in July, with Maj Tim
Kenney departing for 4 Cdn Div TC Meaford as the Chief
Instructor, and Maj Pat Murphy assuming command of
the company after completing a year as the Battalion
Operations Officer.
CWO K.R. J. Donovan,
MMM, MSM, CD
14 PRO PATRIA 2013
In September the company deployed with the battalion
to Meaford as part of Ex ROYAL THRUST II, which
culminated in a challenging platoon live fire range
where both soldiers and leaders were confronted with
tough objectives in difficult terrain. This put the coy
in good stead for Ex ROYAL THUNDER in October,
PRO PATRIA 2013 15
RESOLVE and the battalion’s role as the TF 1-14 High Readiness Battalion Group. PRO
PATRIA!
BRAVO COY
Highlighted by deployments to Wainwright, Connaught Ranges and Meaford, 2013 was
an incredible year in Bravo Company (B Company). Unique training opportunities were
leveraged by the company in order to increase understanding of mechanized operations
as well strengthen the company`s sub-unit cohesion.
In January the company deployed on Ex BRAVO FREEZE which was its first of two forceon-force exercises conducted in the Petawawa training area. During this five-day exercise,
platoons were pitted against each other in a demonstration of their field discipline and
patrolling spirit. Despite being drastically reduced in numbers, the platoons patrolled
aggressively and conducted a number of deliberate attacks against each other. The exercise
culminated in a live-fire section ambush range in which soldiers reacted to an enemy
contact during a route clearance. We continued to develop core infantry skills from 2-4
April by conducting a night training week. This was intended to test B Company’s ability to
carry out such basic tasks as navigation and marksmanship by night during modified work
hours from 2000 hrs until 0500 hrs. It was valuable training that proved the importance of
practicing night fighting skills.
Twice this year B Company conducted ranges at the Connaught Primary Range and
Training Centre (CPRTC) with a view to taking advantage of its outstanding range facilities
– once in January and again in November. These exercises allowed platoon command
teams to plan creative and competitive ranges that improved baseline marksmanship skills.
6 Platoon conducted a series of run-downs on the 900 meter long A Range and used sniper
rifles for a long range shoot. 5 Platoon took advantage of open target bays to employ
moving infantry targets. On the final day of each exercise the company participated in
professional development at the Canadian War
Museum. We were fortunate enough to be
escorted by two Canadian veterans, Major Jon
“Robbie” Robertson (Ret’d) and Capt Jas Haley
(Ret’d) both from the Ottawa Branch of The
RCR Association. Their insight and Regimental
affiliation allowed them to give the soldiers
of B Company a better appreciation for the
regimental history intrinsic to the exhibits.
Capt Jas Haley (Ret’d) with B Coy at
the Canadian War Museum.
16 PRO PATRIA 2013
In May, B Company deployed on Ex MAPLE
RESOLVE 1301 as part of the opposition force
(OPFOR) to the Princess Patricia Canadian Light
Infantry (PPCLI) Battle Group (BG). This annual
exercise hosted by the Canadian Manoeuvre
Training Centre (CMTC) is designed to provide
units with realistic and contextual training
before entering high readiness. B Company
was not the primary training audience; however,
the Officer Commanding and Company Sergeant-Major at the time (Major Ben Irvine and
Company Sergeant-Major, Master Warrant Officer (MWO) Lorne Dalton) nonetheless took
full advantage of the training opportunities offered by an unfamiliar training area and
unpredictable enemy. Deployed on 02 May to CFB Wainwright and FOB SPRINGBOK, B
Company spent two weeks rehearsing before commencing the force-on-force component.
This began on 19 May with a Battle Group hasty defence along the Battle River. The Bravo
Company Combat Team occupied a series of pre-sited battle positions covering five kill
zones behind a Royal Canadian Dragoon (RCD) recce screen. Despite the PPCLI BG acting
somewhat unexpectedly (for instance, committing its air assets to a massive airmobile
operation in the south – an effort which was ultimately thwarted by 5 Platoon), this initial
operation was hugely successful from B Company’s perspective.
The next major operation saw the company commence the offensive. The assault was
preceded by a robust RCD demonstration intended to draw the PPCLI BG’s attention to the
north. Meanwhile, B Company moved south towards a release point at which point it split
into a dismounted force commanded by the CSM and a mechanized force commanded by
the OC. Under the cover of darkness, both dismounted and mechanized forces occupied
dominating high features to the enemy’s immediate south and destroyed several of the
PPCLI BG’s armoured vehicles, rendering them combat ineffective.
The third and final operation of Ex MAPLE RESOLVE had Bravo
Company establish a defensive position on the eastern side of the
training area in preparation for the main defensive battle (MDB).
The combat team used its engineer assets for the construction of
deliberate defences and was able to build hundreds of metres of
anti-tank ditches, over twenty vehicle run-up positions, dummy
trench positions and communications trenches. The platoons were
positioned in a one up two back formation, with 4 Platoon furthest
west, 5 Platoon south, 6 Platoon north and the engineer troop east
in depth. The LAVs were withdrawn into a series of harbours where
they would remain until the enemy had committed his forces on
the position, at which point they would occupy prepositioned
Clockwise left to right: B
Coy in Wainwright.
Royals will be Royals – rocks
painted in Regimental colours
mark the 1 RCR tent lines.
The CSM, MWO Lorne Dalton,
using a large scale map
model to brief on the plan.
PRO PATRIA 2013 17
PPCLI BG overhead imagery of the B Coy defensive
position during Ex MAPLE RESOLVE. Clearly visible
are four LAV run-up positions and a segment of the 6
Pl trench network.
run-ups from which to hit the
enemy in his flank. After five
long hours of fighting, the
PPCLI BG attack overran our
defence and consolidated on the
position. It was a scripted victory
for the PPCLI BG that should
not take anything away from
how admirably the B Company
soldiers performed during this operation, and throughout Ex MAPLE RESOLVE in general.
They will deploy to Wainwright again in 2014 as the primary training audience and take
advantage of everything they learned during this five week deployment.
After the company redeployment from Wainwright, summer leave and personnel
changeovers during the annual posting season, Major Nic Soontiens took command of B
Company and MWO Jim Murnaghan was appointed as the CSM. The company focused
on the fall training cycle, in particular Battalion exercises ROYAL THRUST and ROYAL
THUNDER. The former was a ten day deployment to 4 Canadian Division Training Centre
(4 Cdn Div TC) Meaford focussing on section and platoon training, whereas the latter took
place in Petawawa and saw B Company conduct a live fire company group attack. As
Acting OC, Captain Rob Yuvan led Bravo during two successful attacks against robust
enemy positions as well as through a long defile in which B Company was engaged by
det-sized enemy OPs from a wood line. It was a rewarding conclusion to a busy fall period
for B Company.
Another noteworthy B Company performance came during the annual Kowang-San
celebrations when 5 Platoon placed first overall in a 24-hour Battalion patrolling competition
and 4 Platoon was a close second. There were also nine B Company soldiers that participated
in the 30th annual Ironman competition in September. Corporal Nathan Dagg of 6 Platoon
led all Bravo entrants with a finishing time of 7:01:21. 4 Platoon Commander, Lieutenant
Chantal Boucher, led all female entrants from 1 RCR with a time of 8:11:04.
6 Platoon LAVs
18 PRO PATRIA 2013
CHARLES COY
The year 2013 would prove to be very challenging, but successful, for the members of
Charles Company. The company started the year with several important milestones that
needed to be met, the first of which was a 4 Canadian Division Immediate Response Unit
(4 Cdn Div IRU) Vanguard task. In preparation for the challenging deployment to northern
Ontario, Charles Company conducted comprehensive winter
Clockwise from left to right: OC
warfare training. The company completed a week of in-class
Maj Nic Soontiens during the
instruction followed by Ex POLAR BEAR, a demanding company
30th annual Ironman competition
patrolling exercise. In preparation for operating near water hazards,
in Petawawa.
the company also practiced self-recovery drills on Clement Lake.
During this period WO Misiaczyk took over as 8 Platoon’s 2IC.
Cpl Adam Butindari during the
The entire battalion was then stood up as the 4 Cdn Div IRU, a
task that would last through the end of October. On the 13th of
February, Charles Company left Petawawa behind to test their
winter warfare skills on Ex TRILLIUM RESPONSE. The exercise
Pachino Day competition.
5 Platoon – winners of the 2013
Kowang-San competition.
PRO PATRIA 2013 19
Top: Soaring Bird Aboriginal Youth Leadership Camp –
Cpl Draper, Erica Sampson and Junior Oswabine.
Bottom: Soaring Bird Aboriginal Youth Leadership
Camp – MCpl Martin supervises camp participant.
Ex TRILLIUM RESPONSE – C Coy snowmobile patrol departing Cochrane, ON.
Cpl Martin carrying Cpl Davis.
encompassed a vast, sprawling area from Moosonee to Cochrane, ON, challenging
the company to locate and secure a piece of enemy intelligence equipment the size
of a basketball, while facing a hostile force. Both men and equipment were tested by
temperatures that dipped as low as -57° C with wind chill while they scoured a 35 km long
portion of the AO. As the search progressed, a change in the enemy tactics forced the
company to adopt a defensive posture. This allowed its members to demonstrate their
expertise in constructing a wide variety of snow defences in anticipation of an attack. As
a result of their hard work and preparation, Charles Company was successful in repelling
the final enemy attack and, shortly after thwarting it, the soldiers recovered the intelligence
equipment, resulting in the successful conclusion of the exercise.
In March the company undertook individual, section and platoon level training. Multiple
ranges were run to ensure competence in marksmanship and tactics, followed by a
navigation exercise at the end of April. Charles Company continued conducting small
Cpl Ferguson and Cpl Bragaglia of C Coy.
arms ranges throughout May in
preparation for follow-on urban
ops training. This was done by
completing the Personal Weapons
Test 3 and 4 shooting packages
before moving on to room clearing
and other urban ops skills. The
urban ops training culminated in a
series of force-on-force simunition
battles. The remainder of May dealt
with completing Individual Battle
Task Standards (IBTS) training on a
variety of small arms and the LAV’s
weapon systems. Apart from the
IBTS training, a large portion of
Charles Company deployed to CFB
Wainwright as augmentees for Bravo
Company as a part of their OPFOR
task for EX MAPLE RESOLVE 13.
The month of June increased the esprit de corps of Charles Company through team
building activities. It began with a company patrolling exercise which concluded with a
successful company raid on a Battalion Command Post. Next was the Battalion’s Pro Patria
Challenge in celebration of Pachino Day, where the company planned and ran an obstacle
course over a 9 km route through the biathlon trails. The company’s soldiers then went on
to win the event.
Near the end of June, Charles Company organized and led the Soaring Bird Aboriginal
Youth Leadership Camp. Soaring Bird was held at the Zhiibaahaasing First Nation on
Manitoulin Island, and taught leadership and confidence through fitness and basic soldier
skills such as field craft, rappelling and marksmanship. The initiative was well received and
supported by the local First Nations communities.
During the summer there were also several changes in the company’s leadership. Maj
Norton and CSM Morgan handed the company over to the incoming command team of
Maj Corby and CSM Hawthorn. While 8 Platoon’s leadership remained the same, there were
changes in the other two platoons. Lt Purdon and WO Robin took over from Lt Girouard
and Sgt Leblanc in 7 Platoon, while 2Lt Neppel and WO Losier took over in 9 Platoon,
replacing Capt Cybulskie and WO McTaggart.
The month of August again concentrated on mastering shooting skills. It began with a
refresher of the company’s LAV gunnery skills, and continued with a second round of
small arms ranges for make-up IBTS training. Charles Company participated in Ex ROYAL
20 PRO PATRIA 2013
PRO PATRIA 2013 21
THRUST II in September, which began with a road move to 4 Cdn Div Training Centre
Meaford, then focussed on refining the platoons’ mechanized infantry skills. The company
conducted mechanized section and platoon live fire attacks before transitioning to a
dismounted company fighting patrol. The company was honoured to have the Colonel of
the Regiment, Colonel W.J. Aitchison, present at orders for this patrol.
Upon return to Petawawa, Charles Company focussed further on mechanized company
operations. Included in the preparation for conducting the level 4.5 range was the
development of specific company SOPs. Charles Company mounted multiple mechanized
attacks during Ex ROYAL THUNDER, as well as occupying a hasty defensive position. The
soldiers of Charles Company aggressively attacked the final objective with an overwhelming
amount of focussed violence.
Charles Company once again held the Sgt Darcy Tedford Shooting Competition, which is
an all-ranks event held by the company every year in memory of Sgt Tedford who was killed
in action in 2006 in Afghanistan. The competition consisted of a combination of long and
short range shooting and was won by Pte Wellon of 7 Platoon.
November’s training included a battalion road move around the western training area
and a LAV night shoot which reinforced Charles Company’s ability to conduct mounted
operations in all conditions. The company then shifted focus to dismounted platoon
training in preparation for the Kowang-San Competition. This placed a heavy emphasis on
navigation and patrolling at night, raids, marching, and shooting.
Charles Company had a busy year in 2013, completing a wide variety of tasks and training.
As the company prepares to be stood up as part of Task Force 1-14, the company remains
diligent at working towards the Road to High Readiness.
ECHO COY
2013 was another busy year for Echo Company. Combat Support Coy started off the
22 PRO PATRIA 2013
Kowang-San Competition – Pte Wellon, Pte Aiken, Cpl
A river crossing by assault boat during
DaSilva, Cpl Findlay, and Lt Purdon from 7 Pl.
the Recce Patrolman Course.
year deploying on the Divisional level Immediate Response Unit (IRU) Exercise TRILLIUM
RESPONSE, as part of 1 RCR’s commitment to the IRU. The frigid temperatures of the
sub-arctic conditions found in Moosonee, Ontario tested our soldier’s abilities to adapt
to the austere operations in Northern Ontario. The spring brought the return of focus to
the road to high readiness by shifting gears into conventional operations. Conventional
warfare centric training meant Echo Company members had to train hard and draw upon
the corporate knowledge of the NCOs to transform doctrinal concepts of combat support
functions into realistic SOPs and tactical actions. This was no easy task as counter-insurgency
had been ingrained in our soldiers by 13 years of war in Afghanistan. The NCOs of Sniper
and Recce platoons, through liaison with other units such as the Royal Canadian Dragoons,
immediately began to grind away at the problem. They developed new, in some cases
reintroduced old, training methods and they developed SOPs, that took into account the
new technology and capabilities.
Concurrently, sniper and reconnaissance courses were conducted to keep the Battalion
supplied with its integral sensor capabilities. The Basic Reconnaissance Patrolman course
was conducted here at Garrison Petawawa from August to the beginning of October. The
completion produced 22 highly trained Recce Patrolmen. Following that, Recce Platoon
sent a section of exceedingly proficient soldiers to the Canadian Patrol Concentration
where they were awarded a silver medal and finished third overall. Sniper Platoon
contemporaneously sent a detachment to participate in the Canadian International Sniper
Concentration held by CTC in Garrison Gagetown. This team notably had several first place
Ex ROYAL THRUST II – WO Robin
Recce Patrolman Course practicing
and 7 Pl during the AAR.
assault boat recovery drills.
PRO PATRIA 2013 23
finishes during this international competition. Our sniper detachment proved that when it
came to long range marksmanship we are among the best in the world. Throughout the fall
of 2013, Echo Company was responsible for conducting advanced range training, ensuring
the battalion’s sub-units could successfully negotiate the section, platoon, and company
level live fire ranges in preparation for Exercise MAPLE RESOLVE 14 in Wainwright.
The section and platoon ranges were conducted at 4 Can Div TC Meaford, and saw the entire
battalion deploy to that training area. After arriving, the rifle companies were put to the
test on ranges focussed on developing section and platoon level live firing synchronization
skills. The soldiers were also provided a realistic battle inoculation experience as they
manoeuvred through the arduous trace. Grenades were posted by fire teams in the enemy
trenches. The soldiers cleared trenches by firing each other in as danger close as safety
would allow. Redeploying back to Garrison Petawawa, Echo Company quickly assumed the
role of preparing and executing a 24 hour live fire company group range. This daunting
task had to employ all battalion enablers and tested the resilience and effectiveness of the
rifle company groups. Once again, Echo Company members stepped up to the challenge
and designed a dynamic, complex range that employed all battalion weapon systems.
To be successful, Battalion soldiers had to post grenades, fire M72s, M203s, and employ
support weapons to create a volume of fire that set the battlefield ablaze. The LAV’s cycled
through copious amounts of ammunition providing fire bases and real time concentrated
battle inoculation for the soldiers of 1 RCR.
Signals Platoon was the force multiplier that enabled another year of excellent training. The
soldiers and technicians worked diligently honing their skills to ensure the Battalion could
shoot, move and communicate while on the Road to High Readiness. They overcame many
obstacles training in a variety of climates such as the freezing conditions of Northern Ontario
and the undulating terrain of 4 Can Div TC Meaford. By integrating new technology, they
facilitated collaborative planning within the Battalion and with Brigade. In so doing, the
signalers were able to create an efficient and mobile CP through several computer assisted
exercises, incorporating varied communication and information systems equipment. In
conjunction to their preparation for High Readiness, the platoon supported several infantry
competitions such as KOWANG-SAN and the Canadian Patrol Concentration. Their
balancing of work load with priorities ultimately led to the Battalion’s successful transition
into High Readiness and the deployment to CFB Wainwright on Exercise MAPLE RESOLVE
in spring 2014, where they will confirm all the training they’ve conducted thus far.
Echo Company was again tasked to design the battalion KOWANG-SAN challenge. The
competition was designed to test platoon level battle procedure, leading up to the conduct
of a raid on an enemy position. To meet the spirit of the Korean War, soldiers learned
about how our Regiment maintained the initiative on the Korean peninsula by conducting
aggressive night patrols and raids into no man’s land. The result was a challenging patrol
competition, which included advanced rifle ranges, designed to test the resolve and
determination of all the platoons within the battalion. The competition was a great success
and was an excellent bookend for the hard work that Echo Company did during the year.
FOXTROT COY
Foxtrot Company (The Fox) is the combat administrative company of 1 RCR. Administration
and logistics “…embraces not merely the traditional functions of supply and transportation
in the field, but also war finance, ship construction, munitions manufacture and other aspects
of war economy.” - Lt Col George C. Thorpe, Pure Logistics, 1917. There are aspects of
Foxtrot Company that happen unseen, behind the scenes. If you haven’t heard, Foxtrot
makes sure the other sub-units receive meals, be it as IMPs or fresh food, bullets, fuel,
transport and repairs their broken vehicles. During this past year Foxtrot has supported the
Battalion and completed complex training from kill house ranges to dismounted patrols.
Foxtrot’s soldiers come from all different trades and various units, which set the conditions
for Foxtrot’s development into an incredibly well rounded and versatile team.
Within a mechanized battalion the need for transportation is minimal due to the LAV
III. However, fuel, POL, water and ammo consumption are greater and of the utmost
importance. Transport Platoon, Foxtrot’s only infantry based platoon, has the continuous
task of re-supplying the companies. Transport Platoon accomplishes its mission by
conducting nightly re-supplies and ensures companies are ready for the next bound.
Transport Platoon’s Mobile Support Equipment Operator ensures soldiers have the proper
qualifications to be able to operate vehicles within the Battalion.
At the Rappel Site 1
24 PRO PATRIA 2013
Maintenance Platoon, the biggest platoon within the Battalion, fixes everything from the
LAV III, all weapons systems, to modular tents and snowshoes. When companies deploy
for field training or ranges more often than not there will be a Mobile Repair Team or MRT
attached and poised to enable their success. Concurrently, the remainder of the platoon
will be turning wrenches and minimizing the Vehicles On Repair or VOR. This is a task that
not only requires the platoon of maintainers, but support from the supply system in the
form of spare parts. Nowhere was this more evident than when the Battalion deployed to
Meaford on Exercise ROYAL THUST where Maintenance Platoon kept the entire Battalion’s
wheels turning and weapon systems firing with support from the Quarter Master Platoon.
PRO PATRIA 2013 25
Throughout the hectic training schedule, the Quarter Master Platoon provided all necessary
supplies while its Platoon Commander, known as the Quarter Master, administered the unit
budget on behalf of the Commanding Officer. With the incredible number of expenses in a
mechanized battalion, this is a daunting task in any economic climate. However, it ensures
that the Battalion is able to conduct effective and realistic training year round.
With all these tasks Foxtrot still conducts all of the Individual Battle Task Standards training
required of the other companies. This requires advanced preparation and planning due
to the fact that the Battalion’s operations and training would grind to a halt without the
soldiers of Foxtrot supporting. When Foxtrot conducts training such as Basic Winter Warfare
or ranges, all members are eager to participate and are well trained. As with the rest of the
Battalion, Foxtrot was ready to surge as a part of the Immediate Response Unit from May
to July and support during any potential domestic operations.
Thus, this year, just like every year, The Fox was incredibly busy. However, unlike the other
companies of the Battalion, the vast majority of our work goes on behind the scenes. Yet,
without their efforts and support the Battalion would never reach the Line of Departure.
At the Rappel Site 2
Michael James “Mike” Holmes
Named Patron of the Regiment
A highly significant event in our
Regimental history occurred on 05
December 2013. Michael James “Mike”
Holmes, well known home renovation
contractor and television personality
was officially named as a Patron of The
Royal Canadian Regiment.
Mr. Holmes becomes only the second
Patron, with Ms. Judith Irving of
Rothesay, New Brunswick having been
a Patron of the Regiment since 05 June
2012.
Mike Holmes was invested as Patron
in a ceremony that took place at the
Wolseley Barracks Officers Mess at
London, Ontario. Most appropriately
this event involved the senior leadership
of the Regiment. The event, which
included a formal Regimental Mess
Dinner at which Mr. Holmes was the
Guest of Honour, was presided over by
the Colonel of the Regiment, Colonel
W.J. Aitchison, OMM, CD.
Mike Holmes, Patron of The Royal Canadian Regiment.
Highlighting the importance of both the occasion and the appointment of Mike Holmes
as Patron was the presence of the former Commander of the Canadian Army, LieutenantGeneral Peter J. Devlin, CMM, MSC, CD (Ret’d), the President of Fanshawe College.
Including General Devlin, five General Officers (serving or retired), all members of The
Royal Canadian Regiment, were in attendance. These included Brigadier-General J.B.
Simms, OMM, MSC, CD, Chairman of the Regimental Senate; Brigadier-General G.J.P.
O’Brien, OMM, MSC, CD (Ret’d), Chairman of the Regimental Museum Board of Directors;
Brigadier-General (now Major-General) D.W. Thompson, OMM, MSC, CD, Commander
Canadian Special Operations Forces Command (CANSOFCOM); and Brigadier-General
Phil Spencer (Ret’d). Course candidates from the Regimental Officers Indoctrination
Course (ROIC) were thrilled to find Mike Holmes attending the ROIC Mess Dinner as guest
of honour and availed themselves of the opportunity to have their pictures taken with Mr.
Holmes after the dinner.
There were many other very distinguished Royal Canadians on hand to heartily welcome
26 PRO PATRIA 2013
PRO PATRIA 2013 27
Biography of Mike Holmes
MICHAEL JAMES HOLMES – PATRON OF THE
ROYAL CANADIAN REGIMENT
Mike Holmes is welcomed into The Royal Canadian Regiment. L-R:
Col W.J. Aitchison, Mike Holmes, BGen J.B. Simms, Col J.P. Davis.
Mike Holmes into the Regimental family. Some of these included Colonel W.J. Pettipas,
Honorary Lieutenant-Colonel of the 4th Battalion The Royal Canadian Regiment (4 RCR);
Colonel R.D.K. Walker, Regimental Colonel; Colonel J.P. Davis, Chairman of the Regimental
Executive Committee; Captain Cliff Collison (Ret’d), representing The RCR Association;
Chief Warrant Officer M.L. Baisley, Regimental Chief Warrant Officer; and Chief Warrant
Officer D.J.L. Brissette, Command Chief Warrant Officer of CANSOFCOM. As well, it should
be noted that the Command Teams of the First and Fourth Battalions of the Regiment were
present: Lieutenant-Colonel J.W. Robinson and Chief Warrant Officer H. Klausnitzer of 4
RCR; and Lieutenant-Colonel J. Price and Chief Warrant Officer K.R.J. Donovan of 1 RCR.
Also in attendance at the Mess Dinner was Ms. Fay Maclachlan, Executive Assistant to Mike
Holmes.
Prior to being piped into dinner, both Colonel Aitchison and Brigadier-General Simms
publicly welcomed Mike Holmes into the Regimental family and emphasized the vital
importance of the appointment of only a second-ever Patron of the Regiment. Emblematic
of his senior appointment within the Regiment, Mike Holmes was then presented with an
Infantry Officer’s sword.
The position of Patron of the Regiment is a very senior Regimental appointment and is
conceived as a senior adviser on strategic communications and community relations. The
Patron assists and counsels the Regiment as it seeks to interact meaningfully with the
Canadian community at large and enhance its profile and image with the greater public
and with important Canadian institutions. This is a role which our first Patron has most ably
pioneered and continues to perform. Mike Holmes has the background, experience and
character that will allow him to make as significant a contribution to our Regiment, as his
biography below indicates.
28 PRO PATRIA 2013
Michael James “Mike” Holmes is an internationally recognized home renovation contractor
and television host, whose mission is to Make It Right®. Mike Holmes is the host and
co-creator of the hit television series, Holmes on Homes®, which was rated the No. 1
programme on HGTV Canada, as well as Holmes Inspection and most recently Holmes
Makes It Right. In his Gemini award-winning series, Holmes in New Orleans Mike built a
hurricane and flood-resistant home for a victim of Hurricane Katrina. His extensive work in
television and residential construction has earned him a solid reputation for outstanding
professionalism, superlative trade knowledge and impeccable integrity. He has since been
recognized as the Most Trusted Contractor in Canada and was named Forbes’ Third Most
Trustworthy Celebrity in 2012. That same year he was presented with a Queen’s Diamond
Jubilee Medal in recognition of his contributions to the Canadian housing and building
industry. Mike Holmes has also appeared as an expert judge on HGTV’s Handyman
Superstar Challenge and on the U.S. series, All American Handyman.
Mike Holmes was born on 03 August 1963. When he was very young his father began
schooling him in construction work, and by the age of 19 he was running a renovation
company with 14 employees. Mike has accumulated over 30 years experience as a
professional licensed contractor, completing nearly 200 home renovations and remodeling
disaster projects, as well as 52 home inspections throughout his television career. His
award-winning series and specials are seen in over 83 countries worldwide and he is
considered the Second Most Trusted Canadian by Reader’s Digest. His tireless dedication
to sustainable construction, improving building standards and promotion of skilled trades
has been officially recognized by the Canadian House of Commons, prompting him to be
an honorary guest speaker for the 2009 GreenBuild conference and “Eminent Advisor to
the Canadian Government” for the COP15 in Copenhagen-United Nations’ conference on
climate change. Mike is also the national spokesperson for Skills/Competences Canada
and a WorldSkills Ambassador.
Please see below for the joint
press release from the Mike
Holmes communications group
and Regimental Headquarters.
Mike Holmes Named Patron of
TORONTO, ON, December
9, 2013 — Mike Holmes, well
known Canadian advocate for
homeowner rights, improving
building
standards
and
supporting charity and relief
efforts across Canada and
Mike Holmes, Guest of Honour at Regimental Mess Dinner,
seated between Col Aitchison and LGen P.J. Devlin.
PRO PATRIA 2013 29
2nd Battalion
FORWARD
Top left: Mike Holmes,
one of Canada’s most
trusted TV personalities.
Below : Mike Holmes, here
with actor Gordon Pinsent,
was awarded the Queen’s
Diamond Jubilee Medal.
around the world, was officially
named a Patron of The Royal
Canadian Regiment.
A Regimental Patron is a senior
position of distinction within
an Army regiment and plays a
valuable role in the Regiment’s
focus on fostering community
relations.
“The men and women here are
real heroes. And they’re still
doing whatever they can to make
things better,” stated Mike Holmes. “I’m truly honoured to help any way I can.”
As a new member of the Regimental family, Mike looks forward to encouraging Canadians
to better understand The Royal Canadian Regiment and how supporting Canadian soldiers
and their families builds a stronger and more resilient community.
“Mike Holmes has established a well-earned reputation for standards of excellence and
‘making things right’; a motto that is close to the hearts of all the soldiers of our Regiment
who are devoted to the service of Canada,” stated Colonel Joe Aitchison, Colonel of the
Regiment for The Royal Canadian Regiment. “All members of the Regiment are thrilled to
welcome Mr. Holmes into the Regimental family.”
An official ceremony was held at Wolseley Barracks in London, Ontario to commemorate
his appointment as Patron of the Regiment.
30 PRO PATRIA 2013
When preparing this year’s submission for the Pro Patria, I
am reminded of all the incredible work done throughout
the year by this unit and the individual soldiers of 2 RCR.
There were all too often competing tasks and multiple ‘no
fail’ priorities that we all fulfilled while ensuring training
gateways were achieved. Opportunities were fleeting
where there was ‘not enough time’ or there were ‘not
enough soldiers.’ Despite the closure of Afghanistan and
the return of our soldiers, we have never been busier.
Where there is challenge there is also opportunity and there
were plenty of opportunities where our young soldiers
and NCOs were able to take on new responsibilities and
demonstrate initiative. For many of them, they performed
flawlessly, eagerly taking responsibility and running with
it. Often tasked for extended periods to support national
training events, courses and other units, they had an
opportunity to influence the Army at large, their actions
reflecting well upon The Regiment.
Following the return from Op ATTENTION the Battalion
went through a reconstitution phase with a new
Commanding Officer and a new mandate where India
Company would form the Force Protection Company for
Task Force 1-14. We also took on renewed responsibilities,
once again contributing to the Immediate Reaction Unit
for JTF-Atlantic. The Battalion saw a number of successful
exercises including the Combat Team Commanders
Course, a level 3 oriented Exercise ROYAL FALL and level
4 Exercise ROYAL SPARTAN. These events supported by
two PCF cycles and a host of other commitments quickly
filled the Battalion calendar.
It has always amazed me how soldiers have the ability
to overcome adversity, embrace the good times and
overcome the challenges to strengthen commitment
to our fellow soldiers. Each exercise, patrol, or stove
watch contributed to the narrative of a soldier that upon
retirement he or she will look back on in fondness. Each
time the litany of stories are told, they will become bigger
2 RCR
PRO PATRIA 2013 31
and better. In this year’s installment of the Pro Patria, we hope to capture some of the
salient moments that contributed to those narratives. Moments of humour, moments of
comradeship, failures and successes, these are the things that make us better soldiers and
better people. It has been a great privilege to command such extraordinary soldiers as
those in the Second Battalion and I look forward to all the many challenges in the year to
come. Pro Patria!
Right: Lieutenant Kelvin Gilliland back briefs
his Company Commander Major Marc Cote
on his attack plan during the level 3 live
level 3 BTS for each Platoon within the
INTRODUCTION
Battalion culminating in a Day and Night
Sergeant Joseph Simard-Valley entered the doors of Gregg Barracks after a two month
leave period, having returned from Op ATTENTION as part of the Kandak 3 advisory
team. The empty hallways of 2 RCR were gradually filling throughout the month of January
as soldiers returned from their leave. It had been a busy and rewarding tour and now
began the task of reintegrating back to the normalcy of Gagetown. After handing over
the mandate of Op ATTENTION to the elements of 5 CMBG, members of 2 RCR would
begin their exfiltration and return back to Canada. Moving through Camp Phoenix and
onto the Kabul International Airfield, soldiers would depart via the C-17 Globemaster and
onward to Paphos, Cyprus in order to undergo their third location decompression. After
a three day stay at the Azia Hotel soldiers were loaded on an RCAF Airbus bound for the
Fredericton Airport. The anticipation and excitement of reuniting with family was then
replaced by a desire to get back to work and take on the responsibilities of commanding
22B. The 14th of February saw a complete reorganization of the Battalion where many
soldiers were to take on new responsibilities and others were posted
to other organizations in the army. Many of the NCO’s, like Sergeant
Above: 2 RCR’s
Simard-Valley, would meet old friends in a new company and with it new
Patrolling Team
challenges post-tour. Others would be immediately posted out from
steps onto a Griffon
the unit to backfill the Infantry School, the Combat Training Centre and
Helicopter in
even a few to select Reserve Support positions throughout LFAA. The
preparation for the
remainder would be left to prepare for the Combat Team Commanders
Canadian Patrol
Course (CTCC) run by the Tactics School.
Competition held
32 PRO PATRIA 2013
down time. Photo by Corporal Matt Whelan.
fire Exercise Royal Fall. Royal Fall confirmed
R.N. Washburn, Lieutenant-Colonel, Commanding Officer
The CTCC was for the first year conducted in conjunction with the Infantry
Dismounted Company Commanders Course or IDCC. This was a course
run for a Primary Reserve audience to develop Company Commanders
Above: Practice of Gunnery in the CGT during
in Wainwright
Alberta. Photo by
Corporal Ian Doyle.
Live fire attack. Photo by Maj S.G. Brown
within a dismounted context. 2
RCR would have the opportunity
to support these national
courses, but it would take the
efforts of the entire Battalion.
Hotel Company would provide
the Opposing Force for both
courses but was also left with
the responsibility of setting up
the level 3.5 live fire demonstration range. This demonstration would illustrate the weight
of firepower that could be achieved by a platoon from India Company and a troop of
tanks from C Squadron to the, recently appointed, Chief of Defence Staff, General Lawson,
CMM, CD. The Course then commenced with a Combat Team dry attack led by Major Ryan
Moore, Officer Commanding India Company with Master Warrant Officer Phil Thompson
and ably supported by Major Sean Pires of C Squadron the Royal Canadian Dragoons. Golf
Company was the supporting sub-unit for the IDCC commanded by Major Nick Gallagher
with Master Warrant Officer Brad Rogers.
COMBAT TEAM COMMANDERS COURSE
It had been a long two weeks for the West Isle Armed Forces as both Golf and India
Companies continued to clear the Lawfield and Nerepis Corridors in support of the Combat
Team Commanders Course and the Infantry Dismounted Company Commanders Course
(IDCC). Having suffered a dramatic defeat at Groningen Village, Colonel Sandar Delgado,
also known as Major Greg Vander Kloet, gave orders in a darkened sea container on top
PRO PATRIA 2013 33
of Day Hill. It would be Day Hill where
Early Engagement, a LAV III and Leopard Tank are engaging objective
the West Isle Armed Forces would make
targets from the fire base of the Level 3 demonstration for the CDS
their final stand against the 2 RCR Battle
General Tom Lawson 20 April 2014. Photo by Corporal Matt Whelan.
Group. Vander Kloet, alone and denied
support from his higher headquarters,
was determined to make the objective as
difficult as possible. He would identify the
enemy’s axis of advance early by pushing
out a robust recce screen and would lightly
man his main defensive position in favour
of having a larger counter-moves force. He
hoped that this would reduce the effect of
2 RCR artillery support while having the
time to use the dead ground to meet the 2
RCR assault forces with his counter-moves.
Captain Panda El-Saadi (Lt Nial Nemecek),
his IED specialist, would attempt to blunt the assault by using a series of well laid obstacles.
Back in Call Sign 0 of the Battle Group Command Post, Lieutenant-Colonel Alex Ruff
assembled his key staff to lay out the plan for the pending attack. An imposing feature,
Day Hill dominated the terrain to the west of it, observable only from a prominent ridge
to the southwest. The hill was closed on three sides by forested terrain concealing a few
prominent routes. The most obvious approach to the objective was from the west but it
was impeded by an impassable swampy area that ran north to south. The swampy area
was bisected by a road that was in plain view of the position. The challenge was how to
manoeuvre both a mechanized and dismounted combat team so that they converged on the
same objective at the same time while minimizing the risk associated with the commitment
of the enemy counter-moves. The plan hinged on the air insertion of recce in order to
locate Vander Kloet’s counter-move force early and facilitate the dismounted infiltration of
Maj Nick Gallagher’s Golf Company. C Squadron of the Royal Canadian Dragoons would
conduct a deceptive road move to the North of Day Hill in order to conceal the occupation
of the objective’s fire base and forward staging of the assault force. The plan saw the two
forces cross the Line of Departure
and converge onto the objective
commencing at 0600hrs.
Things unravelled early for 2
RCR and its Recce insertion.
MCpl Rich (Soft Paws) Dunbar
was approaching Day Hill from
the east, his detachment skirting
the roads around Corner Road.
Hotel Company’s early warning
Hotel Company’s position receiving preparatory fire before the assault by India
system saw the detachment as it
Company during the Combat Team Commanders Course. Photo by Corporal Matt Whelan.
exposed itself crossing the road
and immediately called into action
its attached 81 mm mortars. Within
minutes, rounds were landing on
the exposed patrol and Exercise
Control was advising 69, Lieutenant
James (Where is He) Brogan, that
his detachment was out of the
exercise. Astutely reading the map
coordinates he advised the unlucky
detachment
commander.
That
unlucky detachment commander
was Sgt Danny Baker, who after a
successful insertion of his patrol was
Casualty play in conditions that are less than ideal during the Level 3 Live Exercise
north conducting the vital recce
and the Combat Team Commander’s Course. Photo by Corporal Matt Whelan.
task of searching for the elusive
H Coy counter-moves force. Despite being two kilometres away from the compromised
patrol and a number of requests to their Platoon Commander for confirmation, their patrol
was errantly taken out of action; the counter-moves force would not be found prior to the
attack.
As the morning arrived the Hill was blanketed in a thick fog. Golf Company had made
excellent time and adjusted the line of departure so that it was closer to the objective.
Major Ryan Moore began moving his mechanized combat team out of the attack position
and into the breach that was created by elements of 4 ESR. As both companies converged
on the objective compounds the LAVs started targeting the enemy mortar pits in depth.
The OPFOR on Day Hill was clearly overwhelmed, also paralysed by the thick fog, but
Major Vander Kloet had called into action his mobile reserve which flanked the position
The ultimate fire team, a LAV III and Leopard Tank await orders to
fire live as part of the Level 3 demonstration for the CDS General
Tom Lawson 20th April 2014. Photo by Corporal Matt Whelan.
An India Company depth Section sweeps across the scorched earth of one
of the OPFOR positions. Photo by Corporal Matt Whelan.
34 PRO PATRIA 2013
PRO PATRIA 2013 35
A Section From India Company consolidates on the objective
while fires burn around them during the Combat Team
Commanders Course. Photo by Corporal Matt Whelan.
The Change of Command Parade in line awaiting inspection with
Warrant Officer Scott Daigle on the left flank. Photo by ALSC.
Lieutenant Alex King with the Regimental Colour and his Colour
escort Sgts Curtis Allaby and Alex Othen. Photo by ALSC.
Lieutenant-Colonel Alex Ruff relinquishes his command
before Colonel Simon Hetherington Commander 2CMBG
and the Colonel of the Regiment. Photo by ALSC.
Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo which ran from the 30th of
June to the 7th of July.
The Battalion was then readied and marched onto the parade
square by the Regimental Sergeant-Major, Chief Warrant Officer Eric
Rolfe, under a screen of smoke and simulated machine-gun fire and
against a backdrop of Armoured Fighting Vehicles. Among the VIPs
in attendance were several former Commanding Officers of 2 RCR,
most notably Lieutenant-General Jonathan Vance, OMM, MSC, CD
(Director of Staff for the Canadian Armed Forces Strategic Joint Staff).
Other VIPs included Colonel Joe Aitchison, OMM, CD, (Colonel of
The Royal Canadian Regiment), Ms. Judith Irving (Patron of the Royal
Canadian Regiment), and Colonel Simon Hetherington, MSC, CD
(Commander 2nd Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group). Colonel
Hetherington was the reviewing officer for the parade.
Left: Lieutenant-Colonel
Washburn assumes
command of the Battalion
under the watchful eye
of Chief Warrant Officer
Rolfe. Photo by ALSC.
Right: The new team.
Lieutenant-Colonel Russ
Washburn and Chief
Warrant Officer Eric Rolfe
shake hands following
the Change of Command
Parade. Photo by ALSC.
following the assault force onto Day Hill. Passing the Fire Base and obscured by the dense
fog, the employment of the reserve rear of the assault force caused a great amount of
chaos and a lot of lessons were well learned. As for Sgt Baker’s patrol, they are reportedly
still in the area of Day Hill.
CHANGE OF COMMAND
On Thursday 13 June 2013, 2nd Battalion The Royal Canadian Regiment ceremoniously
conducted a Change of Command Parade to say farewell to the outgoing Commanding
Officer, Lieutenant-Colonel Alex Ruff, MSC, CD, and to welcome their new Commanding
Officer, Lieutenant-Colonel Russ Washburn, MSM, CD.
Approximately two hundred soldiers and twelve officers from 2 RCR donned their dress
uniforms and marched proudly on parade for the last time under Lieutenant-Colonel Ruff
at Camp Argonaut, CFB Gagetown. Before the parade, the spectators and guests were
treated to a precision drill demonstration by the newly formed 2 RCR drill team. This wellrehearsed team performed silent drill taking their movement cues from music rather than
their guard commander. The drill team was formed for the purpose of participating in the
Battalion Change of Command parade. Shrouded
in Smoke the Regimental Pipes and Drums emerge
leading the Battalion onto parade. Photo by ALSC.
36 PRO PATRIA 2013
PRO PATRIA 2013 37
The CO and RSM presenting the Bushman Paddle to
the overall winners Major Nick Gallagher and his 2IC
Captain Jason Robinson who completed the course
in 3hrs 52mins. Photo by Corporal Ian Doyle.
Warrant Officer Derrick Haley provides his Platoon Commander, Captain Pat
Gaudreau, a hand during the Bushman portage. Photo by Corporal Ian Doyle.
Lieutenant-Colonel Ruff signed over command of the Battalion to Lieutenant-Colonel
Washburn. The signatory process took place on an improvised platform ceremonially
constructed by the drummers of the Regimental Pipes and Drums. “The piling of the drums”
is a change of command tradition at the 2nd Battalion as the drums were often used in
wartime as an impromptu surface on which to conduct official business. Immediately upon
assuming command of the Battalion, Lieutenant-Colonel Washburn took over the parade
in the place of the outgoing Lieutenant-Colonel Ruff and ordered a Battalion march past in
honour of the outgoing commander.
In concert with the Change of Command many other positional changes occurred within the
Battalion. Major Ryan Moore and Master Warrant Officer Phil Thompson would hand over
India Company to Major Marc Cote and Master Warrant Officer Rod Higdon. Major Ross
Bonnell would consolidate his position as the Operations Officer. Master Warrant Officer
Anderson was succeeded by Master Warrant Officer Vlad Zalik as CSM Hotel Coy. Master
Warrant Officer Arsenault succeeded Master Warrant Officer Paul MacKeigan as CSM Lima
Coy. The Battalion DSM, Master Warrant Officer Rod Hollahan, handed his responsibilities
to Master Warrant Officer MacKeigan. Finally, Major Neal Whitman was paired up with
Master Warrant Officer Thompson to take over Kilo Coy.
2013 BUSHMAN COMPETITION
The 2nd Battalion The Royal Canadian
Regiment hosted the 2013 Annual Bushman
Competition on the 25th of July 2013. The
Competition included 98 two man teams
consisting of soldiers from across CFB
Gagetown and the 2nd Canadian Mechanized
Brigade Group (2 CMBG). Competitors were
The awards BBQ at the completion of the 2013 Bushman Competition.
required to conduct a 14.4 km weighted
Bushman is a Combat Fitness Competition held every year where
forced march, a 3.6 km canoe portage, a 12.5
participants compete in teams of two. Photo by Corporal Ian Doyle.
km canoe and ending with a 3 km weighted
sprint to the finish line. The Bushman
competition differs from the 2 CMBG Ironman competition, in that it is done in teams of
two and has a longer canoe portion of the course. Many of the competitors that completed
38 PRO PATRIA 2013
the Bushman will travel to Petawawa to compete in the 2 CMBG Ironman in late September.
Following the competition, the Commanding Officer of 2 RCR, Lieutenant-Colonel Russ
Washburn, took the opportunity to congratulate the winning team composed of Major
Nick Gallagher and Captain Jason Robinson, who completed the course with a time of
3hrs 52mins. Also recognized was Private Don Buchan achieving the distinction of Top
Candidate on the unit’s Basic Reconnaissance Course.
Other results included the 2nd Place team of Captain Eric Robison and Master Corporal
Cory Vale, finishing 3hrs 59mins. The 3rd Place team of Master Corporal William McKeough
and Corporal Cody Moulaison finished at 4hrs 9mins. The top Mixed Team of Lieutenant
Alex King and Lieutenant Celine Best completed with a time of 4hrs 53mins. The top
Masters Team of Major Greg White and Master Warrant Officer Darryl Anderson achieved a
time of 4hrs 36mins. The top Grand Masters Team of Chief Warrant Officer J. Moreau and
Warrant Officer Harvey Greening finished at 5hrs 20mins. The top Female Team of Corporal
M. Gilbert and Private Tasha Myra completed with a time of 5hrs 53mins.
ROYAL NOVA SCOTIA INTERNATIONAL TATTOO
Exasperated was an understatement, as
Warrant Officer Shaun MacDonald stood
alongside the organizers of the 2013 Royal
Nova Scotia International Tattoo overlooking
the floor of the Halifax Convention Centre.
This time they wanted to dress the team up
in Naval Costume and participate in a third
drill routine. For those who know Warrant
Officer MacDonald, a product of Glace Bay,
Nova Scotia, the adjectives ‘patient’ and
‘soft demeanor’ do not describe the man.
Already tasked with providing two drill teams,
an obstacle course race team, rappel master
support and contributions to two guards, as
well as the Halifax Canada Day Parade, his 28
man crew was tasked to the limit.
Quickly formed following the Combat Team
Commanders Course, the team trained for
This wanted poster was circulated throughout the
four weeks in Gagetown to master a complex
Battalion lines following the Royal Nova Scotia
precision drill demonstration. The master mind
International
Tattoo, no doubt in recognition of all WO
of the sequence was the Drum Major, Warrant
Macdonald’s
efforts. Photographer is unknown.
Officer Colin Smith, who set the sequence to
the musical piece of the Ninth Symphony by
Beethoven. Each day the drill team would practice from 6-8 hours daily on the hard floor of
the D-15 Drill Hall. Shortly after the Battalion’s Change of Command the team would board
buses and get comfortable in their new home in the Residence of Dalhousie University.
For the three weeks prior to the show they would continue to practice and work with the
other components of the show. Different routines called for different orders of dress as they
PRO PATRIA 2013 39
worked closely with the RCMP Ceremonial Drill Team. Each day new imperfections were
picked up and each day Warrant Officer MacDonald found it more difficult to control his
‘East Coast’ English.
With the encouragement of Chief Warrant Officer Baisley, Major Mark Anthony and a few
other Halifax-based Royals, the team kept working tirelessly and performed steadfastly
throughout the Tattoo.
THE LAV 6.0 TRIAL
There were some new vehicles rolling around CFB Gagetown, and 2 RCR’s Hotel Company
was the first to try them out. The new Light Armoured Vehicle 6.0, or LAV Up, began its
trials during the summer months, with the trials eventually stretching into the fall. The LAV
6.0 was designed to replace the LAV III, which is the iconic vehicle of the Canadian Army. It
has a number of different configurations, but is predominantly used as an Infantry Section
Carrier.
Like the LAV III, it has a crew of 3 and is capable of carrying up to 7 soldiers in the back,
ready to dismount at a moment’s notice. It shares a very similar appearance, but the design
stipulation was that it must be superior over the LAV III in every aspect. The LAV 6.0 weighs
approximately 10 tons more than the LAV III and has increased armour and blast protection.
Paradoxically, it has better fuel efficiency and a higher top speed than its predecessor. As
well, the LAV 6.0 incorporates new technologies born straight out of lessons learned from
the 10 year combat mission in Afghanistan.
The trials consisted of an intensive schedule. All members had to take conversion courses to
learn the new systems and interfaces. Getting a company’s worth of soldiers fully qualified
as drivers, gunners and crew commanders in a month was no small feat. Once the initial
training was complete, the real work began. The vehicles were required to operate on a 24
hour schedule. This meant lots of late nights and early mornings for the members of Hotel
Company. Each vehicle accumulated approximately 16,000 kilometers and fired thousands
of rounds. This was to ensure that the LAV 6.0 met certain standards in order to confirm it
was capable of meeting the demands that might be asked of it.
These trials also had a worldwide impact. The LAV III is designed and built in Canada, but
several other countries use it in their armed forces. It is currently in service in New Zealand,
Colombia, Saudi Arabia and, as well, the US Army operates a variant known as the Stryker.
General Dynamics Land Systems (GDLS) is the company that designs and manufactures
the LAV family, and the Canadian branch is based in London, Ontario. Working alongside
the GDLS team, Hotel Company made several modifications to the design of the vehicles,
finding solutions to various failures encountered during the trial. The trial was briefly halted
in order to make the modifications to the fleet and will return to Gagetown to continue
the rigorous testing in 2014. These modifications also assisted in demonstrating the new
vehicles to other interested countries that will also have the option of purchasing the
vehicle. Hotel Company remains committed to this vehicle and looks forward to seeing
what these new vehicles have to offer as it prepared to be the first infantry company to
permanently receive the LAV 6.0.
ROYAL SPARTAN
It was a cold fall day, and the soldiers of Golf Company had occupied a small company
position surrounded on three flanks by small pristine ponds. Carrying nothing but what
was on their backs they proceeded to commit shovel to soil and construct a defensive
position that would allow them to defend this forsaken piece of ground in the Gagetown
Directing Operations from the Main Defensive
Position Captain Rob Buckingham coordinates the
LCol Washburn, CWO Rolfe and the GDLS Team pose with the new LAV 6.0.
defensive activities for Golf Company and Exercise
Royal Spartan. Photo by Corporal Ian Doyle.
40 PRO PATRIA 2013
PRO PATRIA 2013 41
training area. The intent was to dig down to stage 5 within 24 hours using the existing
vegetation to conceal their activities and turn the adjacent open fields and ponds into
killing zones. Outside of 24 hours the enemy was expected to move from their defensive
positions in order to disrupt the operations of Major Nick Gallagher, Officer Commanding.
From a frigid -7 degree low, the sun eventually warmed the temperature to 18 degrees
above zero. This 25 degree differential in temperature demanded that soldiers carry all
the kit that they could. The hardened dirt soon gave way to mud and clay, making digging
extremely difficult. On the forward right flank of the company, Cpl Jeremy Skerry and Pte
Mitchell Wilson, both from Moncton, tried to keep their trench from filling and re-filling with
water. Warrant Officer Shane Speed continued to press his understrength platoon while
overseeing the construction of wire obstacles. It was clear that the enemy would have an
extremely difficult time gaining access to the main defensive position, but what was also
clear was there would be absolutely no way to manoeuvre while on the position. They
would fight it out here; there was no way out if attacked.
Meanwhile, India Company had occupied a very different defensive position on top of a
prominent ridgeline along an obvious axis of advance. Here the digging was somewhat
easier with less water and without the complex root systems that plagued Golf Company.
Instead of roots, large boulders often forced the re-digging of trenches two to three feet
to the left or right of originally planned trench positions. The soldiers worked tirelessly
to windlass their trench’s revetting, their hands cold and difficult to move because of the
unceasing wind that lashed the position. Here the temperatures were far lower and the
sunlight was of little comfort to anyone. Soldier’s worked hard at improving their trenches
and overhead protection if only to seek refuge from the elements by heating a hot coffee
using a jet boil or one burner stove. Major Marc Cote sighted the position so that it was
naturally large and able to absorb any enemy penetration. Once inside the position the
enemy would be forced to navigate through a series of obstacles including type II wire
obstacles and low wire entanglements which were camouflaged within the knee high grass.
Only a handful of India Company
Soldiers remain on the defensive
position while the majority of the
company heads off to hunt Golf
Company during Exercise Royal
Spartan. Photo by Corporal Ian Doyle.
42 PRO PATRIA 2013
This poster circulated around the Battalion for months
after Exercise Royal Spartan depicting Captain Matt
Coughlin’s escape using the imagery from the movie
‘The Great Escape’. Photographer is unidentified.
As the light started to disappear, both
India and Golf Companies assembled
their leadership together on each of
their positions to confirm the security
arrangements for the night and to talk
about the offensive operations they
would launch in the morning. This was
the setting upon which Exercise ROYAL
SPARTAN would start. The two companies
would not be fighting a common enemy,
but instead would be fighting each other
in a force on force exercise that would
see them pitted against each other in
achieving common objectives. Using
simunition, each company needed to
seize and retain control of three objectives
while at the same time retaining possession of their own main defensive position. India
Company in particular was looking forward to stepping off from their frigid ice box on
top of the high ground in order to begin the offense. After loading up on simunition and
finishing their final hot meal for the next three days, both companies received grids for their
initial objectives and so began the race.
Both companies quickly secured their first objectives, thereafter receiving there next
objective locations. Maj Cote directed that 8 Platoon would hold the first objective, while
tasking 9 Platoon to continue forward to take the second objective. Accompanying this
platoon was the Company’s LAV Captain, the underemployed Matt Coughlin. Both Captain
Coughlin and Corporal Mathew Campbell from Halifax moved along with 9 Platoon until
getting held up trying to cross a water feature. Choosing to use his initiative he departed
from the platoon to begin the process of trying to independently find a route across the
feature following a black track. After crossing the feature a small contingent approached
them from an angle. Obscured by the protective simunition masks (respirators) a familiar
voice asked the question “are you from 2 platoon or 3?”
Fortunately, it was Maj Gallagher who first realized first that the soldiers he approached
were not from either 2 Platoon or 3 Platoon, but were in fact from the opposing force.
Weapons drawn, 39B and Corporal Campbell were now in the custody of Golf Coy. OC
Golf had followed his main force after being held up by sniper fire on his first objective.
His main force had already seized the second objective and was consolidating against the
impending India Company attack which was still held up at the river. After searching and
processing their prisoners, OC Golf moved onto the second objective with his prisoners,
linking up with his assault force. The two prisoners were then transferred into the able
custody of Master Warrant Officer Brad Rogers. While Captain Coughlin was disruptive and
PRO PATRIA 2013 43
REGIMENTAL WEEK
The year closed with the traditional activities of Regimental Week. All of the Battalion’s
major events required work-up training, set up and preparation, along with the two very
busy PCF cycles that allowed us to force generate required skills and expertise within the
Battalion. Regimental Week has always been a time to reduce the tempo in preparation for
the Christmas Leave period. The annual hockey games took place with the Privates beating
out the Master Corporals and the Officers carrying the day over the Senior NCOs. These
were fun and well played games.
The Senior NCO Hockey Team 2013. Photo by Corporal Ian Doyle.
difficult, Corporal Campbell was compliant and forthcoming, demonstrating the greater
wisdom. As the soldiers of Golf Coy rapidly worked to dig shell scrapes in preparation for
an attack, Corporal Campbell was waiting for an opportunity. His hands cold, he worked
to loosen the restraints on his hands, and asked for his gloves. CSM Rogers agreed to
this reasonable request, slung his weapon, retrieved the gloves and approached Corporal
Campbell. Corporal Campbell quickly went around the CSM and was able to gain control
of the slung weapon and proceeded to fire off an entire 30 round magazine of simunition
at the Company Headquarters, successfully hitting no one. In the confusion created by the
moment Captain Coughlin began to make his run.
The men’s Christmas Dinner was conducted at the Base Mess Facility. Lieutenant-Colonel
Washburn made the traditional exchange of tunics with Private Anthony Erskine from
Pembroke, Ontario, who was just 19 years of age. In turn Chief Warrant Officer Rolfe made
the traditional exchange with the oldest soldier of the Battalion, Corporal Kevin Pfinder.
The Soldiers’ Dinner was well attended by many of the veterans that served our country in
conflicts past and now live in assisted living facilities throughout the local area. Of course,
the annual Christmas raffle was completed with the Battalion’s perennial winner Sergeant
Darrel Shepard walking away with just one of a few PlayStation 4 video game consoles
available this year.
The final event of the week was the traditional mufti parade which followed the various
Regimental Mess Dinners. The quality of costumes was consistent with years past as the
Battalion marched in column of route on the main floor of D-57, as both Senior NCOs
and Officers looked on from the balcony. A quick dismissal and within 15 minutes the
building was empty, just as it had been in January of that same year. Another calendar year
completed. Pro Patria.
The “Great Escape” of Captain Coughlin and Corporal Campbell prompted a lot of
movement on the objective. The Company 2IC, Captain Jason Robinson saw Coughlin
dash across the position and gave pursuit. In all the confusion, Master Warrant Officer
Rogers found himself tackled to the ground, only to realize his Company Commander was
trying to detain him. In the end, Captain Coughlin’s escape was foiled by the soldiers of
Golf Company who finally caught him.
Meanwhile, Master Corporal Aaron McAllister, India Coy’s signaller, was frustrated in
dealing with a breach of COMSEC. Having to coordinate the switching of alternate means
while on the advance was no easy task and resulted in a major delay for India Coy. Golf
Coy had seized Coughlin’s ‘N/S radio.’ With the expertise of Sergeant Adam Pizio the radio
was quickly made serviceable again and was used to send several errant situation reports
in 39B’s name. This led India Company to believe that their main position was in imminent
threat. Eventually, the ruse had been revealed and the India Company advance continued.
However ‘Coughlin’s Great Escape’ has become a part of Battalion lore that will be recalled
in the years to come.
Many lessons were learned and the exercise required significant strength and stamina to
maintain the required tempo of activity. Dismounted, carrying all of their gear, wearing
protective equipment and the confusion created by wearing the protective equipment all
added to the complexity of the exercise.
44 PRO PATRIA 2013
The Officer’s Hockey Team 2013. Photo by Corporal Ian Doyle.
PRO PATRIA 2013 45
The Retirement of
Lieutenant-General
Peter John Devlin, CMM, MSC, CD
By Capt R.A. Appleton, Regimental Adjutant
O
f momentous significance for the Canadian Army
and The Royal Canadian Regiment, LieutenantGeneral Peter John Devlin, CMM, MSC, CD,
officially retired from the Service on 18 July 2013,
having relinquished command of the Canadian Army
that same day. His career has been nothing short
of remarkable, encompassing 35 years of the most
distinguished service.
Clockwise from top left: Pte Anthony Erskine wearing the CO’s rank takes the lead in carving the annual
holiday turkey at the Soldiers Holiday Festive Dinner. Photo by Corporal Ian Doyle.
The Soldier of the Year Award was presented to Corporal Shawn Spencer from Fredericton by the CO and RSM. Photo by Corporal Ian Doyle
The Battalion Officers along with Brigadier-General Simms and the Regimental Patron Ms. Judith Irving
on the occasion of the Regimental Birthday Mess Dinner. Photo by Corporal Ian Doyle.
46 PRO PATRIA 2013
Lieutenant-General Devlin enrolled in the Canadian
Forces on 01 June 1978 and was commissioned into
The Royal Canadian Regiment following successful
completion of ROTP. He would subsequently spend
most of his military career in field units and exercise
command from platoon to brigade level. The climax
LGen P.J. Devlin, CMM, MSC, CD
of his Regimental service was achieved in 1997
when he assumed command of the 1st Battalion The
Royal Canadian Regiment. His tenure of command
was from 04 July 1997 - 25 June 1999. During this
period, Lieutenant-General Devlin commanded the
1 RCR Battle Group in Bosnia in 1998. He rose to
command 2 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group
from 2002-2004. During 2003-2004 he commanded
the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF)
Kabul Multinational Brigade in Kabul, Afghanistan.
From 2005-2008, Lieutenant-General Devlin was
the Deputy Commanding General of US III Corps;
Commander of the Canadian Army
his appointment included a tour in Iraq from 20062008 as Deputy Commander of the Multi-National
Corps - Iraq. Immediately following his service with the U.S. Army, he served as Deputy
Commander of Canadian Expeditionary Force Command (CEFCOM) from 2008-2010. On
21 June 2010, Lieutenant-General Devlin assumed his present appointment as Chief of
the Land Staff/Commander of the Canadian Army. He announced his retirement on 06
PRO PATRIA 2013 47
February 2013. Lieutenant-General
Devlin was the Senior Serving Royal for
a number of years.
Lieutenant-General Devlin is a field
soldier par excellence and has been
involved in six operational overseas
deployments in various levels of
command, ranging from company to
corps level. These tours have included
Cyprus,
the
Former
Yugoslavia
(3), Afghanistan, and Iraq. Among
his many feats and achievements,
Lieutenant-General Devlin’s command
of November Company, 3rd Battalion
The Royal Canadian Regiment during
a deployment to the Former Yugoslavia
in 1992, stands as a harbinger of the
greatness to come. His inspirational and
dynamic leadership, under the most
adverse conditions, was a key factor in
the significant role played by November
Company in the opening of Sarajevo
Airport in July 1992.
November
Company (and the 1st Battalion Royal
22e Regiment Battle Group to which it
belonged) was awarded the GovernorGeneral’s Commander-in-Chief Citation
for this singular feat of arms.
The official citation for the award of
the Governor General’s CommanderIn-Chief Unit Citation to November
Company
(CANFORGEN
091/02)
reads:
The
Commander-in-Chief
Unit
Commendation is awarded to the 1st
Top left: CO of 1 RCR, 1997-99.
R22eR Battle Group (including N Coy,
Bottom: With MGen Dennis Tabbernor at the Paardeberg Ball, Ottawa, Feb 2011. 3RCR) for having opened the airport
in the besieged city of Sarajevo in July
1992. While surrounded and being shot at by belligerents on all sides, the BG steadfastly
executed its mission, securing the Sarajevo airport for humanitarian relief flights and
escorting these relief convoys into the city. As a result of their presence, the anti-aircraft
weapons, howitzers and tanks stationed around the airport were soon forced to draw
back. The superb effort of the BG led directly to the provision of critical aid for the war
ravaged citizens of Sarajevo and helped in large measure establish the UN in the eyes of
the community as a vital force for world peace and security.
48 PRO PATRIA 2013
In April 1992, November Company
had deployed from Baden Soellingen,
Germany to war-torn and fragmented
Yugoslavia on a UN peacekeeping mission
known as Operation HARMONY. The
Company was now part of the United
Nations Protection Force or UNPROFOR.
Reinforced to a strength of 240 officers and
men, the Company’s Officer Commanding
(OC), was Major Peter Devlin. On its very
first night in theatre, at Sirac, Croatia,
November Company came under heavy
and accurate mortar fire. As many as 25
mortar bombs fell on the company. This
was a precursor of things to come. In July
1992 the entire Battle Group, including
November Company, was re-deployed
from Croatia to the beleaguered city of
Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia, coming
under the command of Major-General
Lewis Mackenzie. At this time Sarajevo
was closely besieged by Serb military
forces. A humanitarian crisis loomed as the
inhabitants of Sarajevo, cut off from outside
aid, were subjected to round the clock
Top: The General Officers of The RCR in 2013. L-R:
BGen O.H. Lavoie, MGen (now LGen) J.H. Vance, BGen
M.J. Pearson, LGen P.J. Devlin, BGen (now MGen) D.W.
Thompson, BGen M.P. Jorgensen, BGen J.B. Simms.
Bottom: LGen Devlin with MGen W.M.
Holmes, then Colonel of the Regiment.
PRO PATRIA 2013 49
3rd Battalion
Lt. Laura Devlin, Mrs. Judy Devlin, LGen Devlin.
bombardment and small arms
fire. Catastrophe for the civilian
population threatened unless the
Sarajevo Airport could be secured
and utilized for the reception
of humanitarian flights bringing
in badly needed foodstuffs and
medical supplies. In response to
this crisis, November Company
and the 1 R 22e R Battle Group mounted a heroic operation that broke through and
secured the airport. Humanitarian flights were finally able to land. November Company
now undertook the escort of relief convoys bringing life-saving supplies from the airport
into the besieged city. The actions of the Battle Group and November Company forced
the withdrawal of belligerent forces from the vicinity of Sarajevo Airport. Queen Elizabeth II
paid homage to the actions of the Battle Group, citing its huge contribution to the cause of
international peace. In Regimental annals, Lieutenant-General Peter Devlin and November
Company will always be remembered for the opening of Sarajevo Airport.
Lieutenant-General Devlin has achieved well deserved official recognition in several
instances. He was awarded the Meritorious Service Cross in 2004; the U.S. Legion of Merit
in 2008; and he was invested as a Commander in the Order of Military Merit in February
2010. Lieutenant-General Devlin is a graduate of the University of Western Ontario, the
Canadian Forces Staff School, the Canadian Land Forces Command and Staff College, the
Canadian Forces College and the U.S. Army War College.
All Royal Canadians reflect with great pride on the outstanding career and superb
achievements of Lieutenant-General Peter J. Devlin. For 35 years he has demonstrated to
a remarkable degree all those virtues and qualities upon which great character, and great
regiments, are built: integrity, duty before self, loyalty, compassion, gallantry, chivalry, and
dash. Lieutenant-General Devlin is the epitome of a Royal Canadian. To have simply met him
once is to have experienced his warmth and tremendous spirit of generosity. His departure
from active service is to be deeply regretted; Lieutenant-General Devlin will be sorely
missed, but we know, even in retirement he will continue to faithfully serve the Regiment.
His service to the larger community certainly continues. Lieutenant-General Peter Devlin
has been the President of Fanshawe College at London, Ontario since September 2013.
Mike (Para) Company
By Capt Brian Summers
The past year has been extremely eventful for Mike
Company. We focused heavily on developing our
existing airborne capabilities and developing the skills
of our soldiers. Mike Coy leveraged opportunities to
train domestically and abroad, specifically with the
3rd Battalion, Royal 22e Régiment and the US 82nd
Airborne Division.
In the early months of the year, the Battalion traveled
to Fort Bragg, North Carolina to participate in a Joint
Operational Airborne Exercise (JOAX). Under the
command of LCol David Quick, over four hundred
soldiers from the 3rd Battalion and two hundred
members of 2 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group
participated in this divisional exercise. The officers
and soldiers of our company benefitted enormously.
We were exposed to large scale tactical planning,
movement and C2, deployment, and use of the air
droppable battalion command post. Although this
was not the first time 3rd Battalion has participated in
JOAX, most of the senior leadership had changed. This
exercise provided those members with an excellent
opportunity to grasp the amount of airborne planning
which is required, to see the size of the organization, and
to test our interoperability with our U.S. counterparts.
JOAX climaxed with a tactical, full-equipment night
decent. Over 1,500 jumpers descended onto the drop
zone in a matter of minutes and launched an attack
on a defended airfield. At the end of the exercise, we
conducted a wings exchange and received accolades
from the Americans for our tactical prowess and our
professionalism.
In early April, Mike Company participated in the Battle
of York Parade in Toronto. Here, 3rd Battalion was
presented its new Regimental Colour by the Regiment’s
Colonel-in-Chief, His Royal Highness The Prince Phillip,
Duke of Edinburgh. The other major ceremonial duty
50 PRO PATRIA 2013
3 RCR
CWO K.M. Olstad, MMM, CD
PRO PATRIA 2013 51
Soldiers from the Mike Company Group
descend onto DZ Anzio during the
Level Four Company Live Fire Ranges.
146 Griffon helicopters, the company continued clearing through heavily built-up areas in
the objective area. The company level live fire was an enormous success; starting with the
first formation jump in 14 years to the use of enablers in an all arms construct to the use
of close air support with CF-18s and CH-146s. The training we conducted on this dynamic
and realistic exercise will aid the soldiers and officers of Mike Company for years to come.
This past year proved to be extremely busy and, at the same time, tremendously rewarding
for the company. Soldiers, of all ranks, were given the opportunity to participate in a variety
of new, challenging, and realistic training. As we look to the future, we aim to continue the
development of our skill at arms and advance our capacity to complete complex airborne
operations. Light winds, and soft landings!
Above: Prior to a parachute descent, members of Mike
Company have their equipment checked by American
Jump Masters from the U.S. 82nd Airborne Division.
included the Battalion change of command parade where LCol Dave Quick passed
command to LCol Rob McBride. During the parade, Mike Company displayed its unique
capabilities by conducting freefall parachute descents, water landings, and helo-casting
jumps.
In October, the company took part in a week-long platoon patrolling exercise hosted by
3rd Battalion, Royal 22e Régiment, at Garrison Valcartier. The mountainous training area
at Garrison Valcartier presented an enormous challenge to each soldier in our company
that pushed them to their physical limits. Our platoons conducted several raids and
reconnaissance operations with an aim to test their tactical acumen. Again, the platoons
showcased their tactical expertise and their ability to overcome all obstacles. Hopefully in
the future, we can extend our gratitude by hosting the 3rd Battalion, Royal 22e Régiment
at Garrison Petawawa. Upon redeploying back to Garrison Petawawa, the platoons of Mike
Company commenced their respective Level Three Platoon Live Fire Ranges. The weeklong platoon patrolling exercise prepared the platoons for the challenges they encountered
during these ranges. The platoons worked through a realistic training environment involving
the employment of sniper assets and a key leader engagement.
3 RCR
In November, Mike Company, during the Level Four Company Live Fire Range, completed
an unprecedented parachute descent onto DZ Anzio in Garrison Petawawa Training Area.
Four CC-130J Hercules aircraft, flying in tight formation, dispatched the company along
with a platoon of engineers, artillery forward observation officers, fast air controllers,
medics, and elements of battalion command. Over three hundred jumpers completed the
jump and were all successfully on the ground in a matter of minutes. The formation jump
was the first formation jump conducted in Canada in 14 years. After quickly regrouping on
the drop zone, the company stepped off on a gruelling 12 kilometre patrol. While patrolling
to our objective, CF-18s in close support, completed show of force manoeuvres over the
objective area. Shortly thereafter, the objective was bombarded by high explosive and
airburst rounds courtesy of the 2nd Regiment Royal Canadian Horse Artillery (2 RCHA). The
company advanced on the objective and cleared through three heavily fortified bunkers,
by making use of the explosive entry capabilities provided by the engineer attachments
from 2nd Combat Engineer Regiment (2 CER). Using covering fire provided from two CH52 PRO PATRIA 2013
November Company – Complex Terrain Operations
Hanging in a seemingly perilous position over the edge of a 60 meter high cliff face,
candidates of the November Company led Basic Mountain Operations (BMO) course faced
many fears this past fall. On the final tactical exercise of the course, each section was
tasked to complete a candidate run austere rappel site, a vertical haul line, and a fixed line
crossing of a river over the span of about six hours. It was the final step for many soldiers
entering into the world of mountain operations, and the first major step for November
Company as the Battalion’s newly mandated complex terrain specialists.
This summer, under the direction of the 3rd Battalion’s new Commanding Officer, LCol
Rob McBride, November Company relinquished its mantle as the primary airmobile subunit and became the Battalion’s capability manager for complex terrain operations. It was
a major change for the company, and the intent of the Officer Commanding, Maj Mark
Sheppard, was to create a company where the BMO qualification would be as integral
to his command as the Basic Para course is to their counterparts in Mike (Para) Company.
This BMO serial was a major first step, qualifying over twenty soldiers as Basic Mountain
Operators, and set the conditions for future courses. Once fully qualified, Maj Sheppard’s
company will become a new asset for his Commanding Officer and the Commander of
Left: Cpl Acaster of 6 Platoon conducts a 60m rappel during the rappelling PO check on the BMO course.
Right: MCpl Klaus Bluemke of 4 Platoon demonstrates a deliberate rescue to candidates of the BMO course.
PRO PATRIA 2013 53
N Coy during Ex ROYAL GUNFIGHTER.
2 CMBG and will be able to facilitate tactical movement
through or across complex terrain obstacles.
This BMO serial ran between November 4th and 28th;
the first two weeks were executed locally in Garrison
Petawawa, where soldiers received classroom instruction
on general mountaineering principles, used the rock
wall at the Base Gym to complete top rope climbing, and
conducted rappels off of pre-established sites within the training
area. The final phase of the course included a deployment to an area outside of Bon Echo
Provincial Park, perfect for complex terrain training. Established within a comfortable base
camp on an abandoned airfield, the candidates moved into the practical and exam phase,
where they put their training to the test on austere sites under harsh winter conditions.
Mountain operations however remain only one portion of the complex terrain puzzle. As 6
Platoon was the lead on operations in mountainous terrain, 4 and 5 Platoons each received
a separate element to develop. 4 Platoon was given the mandate to become the unit’s
capability manager for urban operations, while 5 Platoon received the lead on assault
boat operations, enabling the company to conduct small boat insertions onto unopposed
beachheads. These capabilities were practiced over the course of two separate company
training exercises, where November
Company used assault boats by
night to move into position to
conduct both company ambushes
and raids through complex terrain.
These training exercises also
gave the company leadership an
opportunity to qualify many of their
soldiers as assault boat operators
through the instruction of assault
boat TTPs from the Advanced
Recce Patrolman’s course and the
civilian boat operator’s course. They
Assault Boat training.
represented a successful practice and
54 PRO PATRIA 2013
confirmation of November Company’s
mobility goals.
Further to these complex terrain
capabilities being developed, the
company also completed multiple
ranges; C7 ranges were run ranging
from basic marksmanship practice to
PWT 4. Company NCOs also provided
instruction to members of the newly
formed 450 Squadron on their personal
weapons, fostering a strong bond
between the two units. C9 and C6
ranges were conducted, as well as
practice with the 84mm Carl Gustav,
M72 and Claymore mines. The success
of these range days was evident during
the company’s successful completion
of Ex Royal Gunfighter which saw
sections conduct live fire attacks at
FRIES – Fast Rope Insertion Extraction System.
level two, up to the level five company
live fire. Members of the company also
contributed to Garrison Petawawa Family Day by running a small arms stand, sharing their
intimate knowledge of these weapon systems with military families and members of the
Petawawa community. Finally the company executed the Battalion’s first AGLS course using
the new C16 automatic grenade launcher.
Fall 2013 was a busy time for November Company, with the completion of an internally led
BMO course, training assault boat operators, and looking to the future of urban operations
training. It has been a rewarding period in its history, where soldiers faced many phobias and
personal challenges and overcame them displaying their professionalism and dedication.
Airmobile training.
PRO PATRIA 2013 55
Oscar Company
By Capt John Keess
Cpl Kyle Trimble, at right, meets with His Royal Highness Prince Philip
during the reception following the Battle of York Parade.
It proved to be a busy and productive
year for Oscar Company, which saw
its soldiers train in two countries,
three locations within Canada, take
the lead in developing 3rd Battalion’s
airmobile capacity, assisting the
Army in the development of new
equipment, and began marching
down the Road to High Readiness.
The busy year of 2013 developed and
confirmed a wide variety of skills and
abilities which enabled the company
to perform well in a number of
demanding and complex scenarios.
The year began with a deployment
to Fort Bragg, North Carolina,
for participation in JOAX 2013,
a large-scale exercise where the
company was exposed to divisionallevel
airborne
and
airmobile
operations. Besides being a fresh
training environment, it provided an
interesting view of how the U.S. Army
conducts such operations which built
on the company’s understanding of
Canadian doctrine and procedures.
Victorious during the Hill 187 Competition, the soldiers of 7 Platoon under the
This was important, as the company
command of Lt Dave Boulay posing with the Colonel of the Regiment, Col W.J.
was the lead for the development of
Aitchison, Lt. Ed Mastronardi, MC (Ret’d) and their recently-earned trophy.
the Battalion’s airmobile pocketbook
and an important training partner
for 450 Tactical Helicopter Squadron, standing up with its brand-new CH-147 Chinook
helicopters.
Upon return, the company switched its focus from helicopter loading drills to parade drill in
preparation for participation in the Battle of York Parade held in Toronto, Ontario in April.
The event was a resounding success – from receiving His Royal Highness, Prince Philip,
the Duke of Edinburgh and performing perfectly during the receipt of a new Regimental
Colour, participating in a demonstration of 3rd Battalion’s capabilities and taking part in
ceremonies to commemorate the bicentennial of the Battle of York. The soldiers of Oscar
Company showed their more refined side during an event that gained attention not just
nationally, but also showed up in media overseas.
After consolidating back in Petawawa, the company participated in the demanding Hill 187
56 PRO PATRIA 2013
competition, pushing through a challenging course involving complex terrain, defensive
fire, and an assault boat course. Moreover, 7 Platoon had the distinction of winning the
event by coming in with the fastest time and highest scores during stands. The emphasis on
light infantry skills and the maintenance of a variety of insertion methods would hold true
for the remainder of the year – even during the change of command ceremony between
LCol David Quick and LCol Rob McBride. Unlike a traditional change of command parade,
the Battalion took the opportunity to demonstrate its various insertion methods, and Oscar
Company fast-casted out of boats onto Kiska Beach to welcome the new CO.
These skills would be further developed and tested over the remainder of the year. In
the fall, Oscar and November companies staged a demanding joint training exercise with
450 Squadron. The scenario saw the pilots from 450 Squadron rehearsing a simulated
downed aircraft and the use of their Survive, Evade, Resist and Escape (SERE) skills to
avoid detection from enemy elements in the area. Meanwhile, Oscar Company inserted by
assault boat and river crossing to secure a recovery area, link-in with the pilots, fought off
a counterattack, and oversaw their clean extraction.
Besides supporting 450 Squadron, Oscar Company supported the Army directly through
its participation in equipment trials. The CANLEAP and Integrated Solider System Project
required Oscar Company to repetitively complete demanding tasks to test a variety of new
equipment, from configurations for a future service rifle to a suite of new communications
tools and their carriage systems. Despite the taxing nature of the task, the soldiers
performed very well and received high praise from the outside agencies conducting the
testing.
Urban operations were also an important training priority for Oscar Company. Through the
year, the company had been conducting a training progression of increasingly complex
and ambitious urban ops ranges. These skills were confirmed at the section and platoon
levels during an out of area training exercise at the 4th Canadian Division Training Centre
in Meaford, Ontario. Beginning with the development of purely urban operations skills, the
exercise culminated with integrating these skills into conventional patrolling for a complex
raid involving simunition (paintball ammunition that works in service weapons), an active
enemy force, exploitation of the objective for important intelligence, and reporting of
Soldiers from Oscar Company fast-cast from assault boats
for the Battalion’s change of command ceremony.
Soldiers from O Coy conducting loading drills on the
CH-147 Chinook with 450 Squadron.
PRO PATRIA 2013 57
progress using a variety of communications systems, including a recently-reinvigorated
High-Frequency (HF) capability.
The company’s helicopter, patrolling, and urban ops skills came together for the Battalion’s
live fire ranges in November. The company completed battle procedure and rehearsals
which set the stage for success in a detailed scenario involving airframes from different
supporting squadrons in a variety of roles, live artillery, engineers using live explosives, and
simulated close air support. Oscar Company showed itself as more than capable when it
landed offset from the objective, conducted a quiet insertion, then leveraged synchronised
combat power from artillery, Close Combat Attack (CCA) helicopters and its own integral
assets to seize a complex objective requiring two interdependent attacks, the first to
seize a defensive system which was used as a firebase to support the advance of the main
body into an urban objective. The attack was a major success, with the company’s soldiers
grinning as they heard the characteristic “boom” of the engineers demolishing the enemy’s
bunkers while the company conducted an extraction at a demanding pace.
The soldiers of Oscar Company went into the traditional regimental holiday events
with heads held high and broad shoulders, taking pride in their proven abilities and
accomplishments. The demanding training year had shown just what the company was
capable of – a wide variety of skills, capabilities, and most importantly, the ability to
integrate these into smooth and effective operations. As 3 RCR moves into high readiness
in 2014, Oscar Company will be ready for just about anything!
Quebec Company
By Lt Brad Baragar, OC Recce Pl
Throughout 2013, Combat Support Company continued to develop its concept of support
in the Light Airmobile Infantry Battalion (LAIB) context by planning and participating in a
wide variety of training opportunities. The various sub-sub-units within Quebec Company
continued to develop and adapt their respective SOPs and force employment concepts
to meet new demands as the Battalion continues to evolve. Recce Platoon continued to
develop its pathfinder capabilities and stood up an independent patrol pathfinder section,
Sniper Platoon acquired new specialized equipment that increased their overall effectiveness
during operations, and Signals Platoon continued to develop the overall mobility of the
Battalion CP. The company also participated in and planned a variety of training events for
the Battalion and ran several courses which were all completed successfully.
The year began with preparations to deploy to North Carolina for the Joint Operational
Access Exercise (JOAX) 13-01 with the U.S. Army’s 82nd Airborne Division. Although
elements of the Battalion had participated in this exercise before, this was the first year
that the entire unit deployed; this meant that a much more robust concept of support was
required. The exercise offered a unique training opportunity and new experiences for both
Recce and Sniper Platoons, who were attached to a U.S. Army Long Range Patrolling (LRS)
unit with whom they conducted a parachute insertion over 72 hours prior to the deployment
of the main body. Under the leadership of Capt Jeff Caselton, Recce Platoon provided vital
information back to follow-on forces; they were able to successfully send back images of
their objectives over combat net radio using a High Performance Wavelength connection.
This allowed follow-on force commanders to use real-time images of their objectives as
58 PRO PATRIA 2013
Members of Recce and Sniper Platoons conduct military
freefall currency training out of a CC-130 Hercules aircraft.
part of their battle procedure, greatly improving the overall friendly battlefield situational
awareness.
In April members of Quebec Company deployed with the Battalion to Toronto, ON to
participate in the Battle of York Parade, the consecration of a new Regimental Colour, and
a variety of outreach programs within the city. Several members of the company made
visits to The Hospital for Sick Children and met with patients and their families, raising their
morale and giving the children an opportunity to ask questions about the life of a soldier.
Members of Sniper Platoon built a variety of static displays at Queen’s Park in Toronto
which showcased sniper capabilities in the LAIB context. Meanwhile, elements of Recce
Platoon conducted a rappel demonstration down the side of a 20 storey building during
the Consecration of the Colours Parade at the Ontario Legislature.
Through May and June the company ran a serial of the Basic Reconnaissance Patrolman’s
course. Candidates were tested on their ability to operate in all the roles essential to a
recce detachment such as signaller, navigator, det 2IC, and det commander. The course
consisted primarily of candidates from 3 RCR, but also had representation from 1 RCR, 2
RCR, 2 CER, and The RCD. A month and a half of extremely difficult training culminated in
a gruelling five day final exercise which evaluated each candidate on their skills as a recce
patrolman and their abilities to back brief follow-on force commanders. The candidates also
supported a follow-on force element from Mike Company in the conduct of an airborne
insertion and several kinetic operations within the training area.
In July Sniper Platoon conducted an extensive pre-course training package and selection
for the Brigade Basic Sniper Course. The pre-course determined the suitability and
developed the skills of the potential sniper candidates by making them compete for the
limited positions on the brigade course. The candidates were put through several shooting
PRO PATRIA 2013 59
Recce Platoon’s patrol pathfinders secure and mark the LZ for a
company air-mobile insertion during the Battalion Level 4 Ranges.
packages and evaluated during a number of stalking exercises. The effectiveness of the
pre-course was evident by the end of the Basic Sniper Course in the fall when the majority
of the 3 RCR candidates were successful.
Recce and Sniper Platoons also continued to develop their Static Line Square Canopy
and Military Freefall parachuting capability by taking advantage of training opportunities
and re-allocating positions on courses to personnel in recce and snipers. The result was
that recce and snipers continued to expand their capabilities and increased the number
of personnel who can be inserted by high-altitude parachuting ahead of a main body.
They also conducted several currency jumps throughout the year, leveraging any training
opportunity which presented itself.
The year 2013 was the first that the Canadian Patrol Competition (CPC) was run at CMTC
Wainwright in Alberta. CPC is an international competition that fields teams from most
combat arms units in the Canadian Army as well as several international teams. Recce
Platoon formed the team this year for 3 RCR under the leadership of Sgt Jay Young; they
began training in August for the competition which took place in November. As part of the
gruelling training regimen, the CPC team deployed to CFB Valcartier with Mike Company
for a week-long patrolling exercise through the demanding mountain training area. At the
competition the team was tested on a variety of patrolling skills including partisan link-ups,
night shooting, and break-contact drills. Sgt Young’s team was extremely successful and
came home boasting a silver medal from the competition.
In November, three members of Quebec Company deployed to remote St. Anthony,
Newfoundland for a Remembrance Day ceremony. There they met Sgt Frank Slade (Ret’d),
who served with 2nd Battalion during the Korean War and was a veteran of the Battle for
Hill 187. The soldiers, Cpl Alexander Sanchez-Groleau, Cpl Samuel Marquardt, and Pte
Braden Kelly, took part in the Remembrance Day ceremonies which saw representation
from The RCR, PPCLI, Canadian Rangers, RCMP, and cadets. They were touched and felt
humbled by the level of hospitality that was provided by such a small town and by the
inspiring stories of the veterans of the Korean War.
60 PRO PATRIA 2013
A member of Recce Platoon conducts live-fire watermanship training.
The year culminated in the planning and execution of the Battalion’s level 3 and 4 live
fire ranges at Garrison Petawawa. Quebec Company was tasked with the planning and
execution of the training for the rifle companies as part of the annual IBTS requirements.
Unique scenarios were created for each of the companies and they focused on the variety
of insertion methods available within a LAIB context. The ranges included a formation
airborne insertion, a company air-mobile insertion, Close Air Support assets, and live-fire
attacks on a variety of objectives. Recce Platoon’s patrol pathfinders were also utilized
in facilitating the insertions of the rifle companies during their respective scenarios. The
ranges were a confirmatory display of the Battalion’s capabilities and Quebec Company’s
ability to support both the training and operational requirements of a Light Airmobile
Infantry Battalion.
Romeo Company
By Capt John Hart
Romeo Company (Combat Service Support) maintained a high tempo throughout 2013.
The year began with the full mounting and deployment of the 3 RCR Battalion Gp for
JOAX 13-01. This marked the first occasion when the Battalion in its entirety was deployed
during JOAX. 3 RCR Battalion Gp was OPCON throughout the deployment to the US
Army’s 82nd Airborne Division and honed its NEO and Aerial insertion TTPs and SOPs.
Romeo Company further developed the Battalion’s sustainment capabilities by operating
self-sufficiently, using the American resupply system and having to forecast consumption
rates well in advance of operations. Romeo Company also made vast improvements to
the efficiency and effectiveness of its airborne/airmobile mounting and sustainment
planning processes. The 82nd Airborne Division’s focal point during JOAX was the seizure
of an airfield and expansion of the lodgement in order to allow for the build-up of forces
PRO PATRIA 2013 61
and equipment via air-lands. Romeo Company partook in this piece of the exercise, and
systematically cross loaded, packed, and delivered all equipment and supplies necessary
for the Battalion to operate. The effectiveness of Romeo Company’s estimate enabled the
Battalion to force generate on the ground within 36 hours of the first paratrooper hitting
the DZ; this made 3 RCR the only unit during the exercise to be ready for follow on tasks
in such a short period.
In April, Romeo Company was instrumental in the provision of support for the Battle of
York Parade in Toronto, ON. This event was in anticipation of receiving a new Regimental
Colour from His Royal Highness, Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh. Over four hundred
soldiers were transported from Garrison Petawawa to Denison Armouries, where interim
accommodations and meals were provided. Romeo Company further provided set-up
and tear down of the actual parade in downtown Toronto, where soldiers, families, media,
Torontonians, and His Royal Highness enjoyed the flawless execution of the parade thanks
to the discipline of the soldiers of 3 RCR.
The annual posting season saw the coming and going of many of the senior leadership
within Romeo Coy, the OC, Maj Dave Hill, handed the coy over to the incoming OC, Maj
Ryan Moore, before departing Petawawa to attend JCSP in Toronto. Capt Edward Jun,
the Coy 2IC, was promoted to Maj and subsequently took command of Quebec Coy. He
was replaced as 2IC by Capt Andrew Willis. In addition the Maintenance Officer, Capt
Matt Nixon, the Quartermaster, Capt Vince Moey, and the Movements Officer, Capt Paul
Mayne, all moved on. Their replacements, Capt Matt Benoit, Capt Matt Girvan, and Capt
Paul Demers, respectively, have proven themselves more than capable of maintaining the
high level of support expected from Romeo Coy. For all of the leadership changes that
did occur, Romeo Coy was fortunate to retain the steady hands of its key Senior NCO
leadership including, the Company Sergeant-Major, MWO John Copeland, the ETQMS,
MWO Willard Smith, and the RQMS, MWO Todd Fitzgerald, for one more year.
Left: A CH-146 Griffon lands to provide re-supply and evacuate casualties during Ex ROYAL GUNFIGHTER.
Right: Romeo Coy crosses the finish line during the Battalion March and Shoot
competition held in honour of Pachino Day in July 2013.
providing first line support from a forward battalion support area, Romeo Company
continued its exemplary execution of air and ground resupply during its week long
deployment. Throughout the year Romeo Company continued with its proud tradition
of providing first class support to 3 RCR both in garrison and in the field. The lessons
learned during this exercise further enabled CSS Coy to refine its battle drills and
planning processes in anticipation of high readiness training scheduled during Ex
MAPLE RESOLVE 14.
Soldiers from Romeo Company continued to participate in numerous IBTS training
opportunities, including small arms ranges, the BFT, CBRN training, grenade ranges,
navigation, and field skills training. In addition to ensuring strong soldiers skills the
technicians of Romeo Company continued to expand the Battalion’s capabilities by
acquiring and building new devices and equipment. A few examples include the acquisition
of lightweight air droppable generators for the Battalion CP, the purchase and assembly of
an airbrakes trg board in anticipation of TAPV arrival and the continued refinement of the
para sim room and its equipment. In addition Maintenance Platoon maintained the lowest
VOR of any major unit within 2 CMBG. QM Platoon continued to enable the Battalion
with all of its technical expertise, and implemented a new quarterly cyclical stocktaking
regimen which is expected to reduce confusion that is normally associated with annual
stocktaking activities. Romeo Company’s cooks were asked for by name and unit to once
again support the pre-race meals during the Army Run weekend in Ottawa, a task they
have now completed exceptionally well for several years.
The year ended with Romeo Company once again focusing on preparation for combat
operations and the sustainment of forward troops. Having conducted preliminary training
through company field exercises, Romeo Company was more than prepared for the
Battalion’s Level 4 Live Fire Ex, Ex ROYAL GUNFIGHTER. Operating on a pull system and
62 PRO PATRIA 2013
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Afghan School Dedicates
Computer Lab to Fallen
Royal Canadians
From L-R, Col Peter Scott, LCol Kim Lapointe (both of The RCR) and BGen Todd Balfe (RCAF) with staff of the
Lycee Safiullah Afzalee in the new computer lab dedicated to Sgt Short, Cpl Beerenfenger and Cpl Murphy.
By Lieutenant-Colonel Kim LaPointe, GSG3 Advisor
KABUL, AFGHANISTAN- On October 2, 2003
Sergeant Robert Alan Short of 3 RCR and Corporal
Robbie Christopher Beerenfenger from 1 RCR
were killed when their vehicle struck an improvised
explosive device while patrolling a dusty road south
of Kabul Afghanistan. Almost four months later on
January 27, 2004 Corporal Jamie Brendan Murphy,
also from 1 RCR, was killed by a suicide bomber
while on patrol near the Canadian base known at
the time as Camp Julien. All three soldiers were
members of the 3rd Battalion The RCR Battle Group
and they were Canada’s first casualties as a result of
hostile acts in Afghanistan.
On February 25, 2014 members of The Royal
Canadian Regiment once again drove these same
dusty back roads of Kabul as they made their way to
a school with a special Canadian connection known as
the Lycee Safiullah Afzalee. These members of the final
rotation of Canada’s training mission were headed to
a ribbon cutting ceremony, featuring Village Council
Elders and ISAF Brigadier-General Todd Balfe, RCAF,
to celebrate the opening of a new computer lab. This
was history repeating itself. In 2003, the members of The
RCR Battle Group to which Sgt Short, Cpl Beerenfenger
and Cpl Murphy belonged rebuilt the school’s roof and
dedicated their labour to the memory of Sgt Short by
mounting a plaque bearing his name near the school’s
front entranceway.
Top: Sgt Robert Allan Short, 3 RCR.
Middle: Cpl Robbie Christopher Beerenfenger, 1 RCR.
Bottom: Cpl Jamie Brendan Murphy, 1 RCR.
64 PRO PATRIA 2013
The charitable effort at the Lycee Safiullah Afzalee School focused on re-purposing surplus
Canadian computers and equipment that would have been disposed of as the Canadian
training mission concludes. Additionally, members The RCR on the last military rotation
in Afghanistan raised donations from the Regimental family, as well as donations from
individual soldiers in theatre to refurbish the surplus computers. Dr. Mohammad N. Azizi,
an IT specialist from Afghanistan Information Management Services, donated his time to
support the Canadian effort by installing new hard drives, memory chips and software in
the computers. The computers were installed in a freshly painted computer lab alongside
an LED TV, projector and screen also donated by the Canadians.
Out of gratitude and respect the school’s head master, Syed Abdullah Hashemi, dedicated
the computer lab to the three fallen members of The RCR.
Lieutenant-Colonel Kim LaPointe, Colonel Peter Scott and Colonel John Fife from The
Royal Canadian Regiment coordinated much of the fund raising in theatre and from the
Regimental family. Surplus desks, office chairs, whiteboard and bookcases from ISAF camp
closures were delivered over the course of three trips to the school to help prepare the
school for the installation of the computer hardware. As the solar system used to power the
water pump at the school had no residual power storage, members of The RCR donated
four brand new batteries to solve the problem.
During the dedication ceremony Lieutenant-Colonel Lapointe indicated, “This project was
an excellent way for The Royal Canadian Regiment to remember three soldiers of our
proud regiment who were here in Afghanistan serving their country and who made the
ultimate sacrifice while helping the people of Afghanistan. I am quite certain that they
PRO PATRIA 2013 65
4th Battalion
By 2Lt Richard McWatt
would have been right here by our side loading and unloading trailers and handing out
pens and paper to the children.”
The Lycee Safiullah Afzalee School has 2,500 male and female students who now have
access to current technology to learn essential computer skills so that they can contribute
to Afghanistan’s developing economy.
This humanitarian engagement at the Lycee Safiullah Afzalee School contributes to the
impressive CAF legacy in Afghanistan and is a fitting tribute to the sacrifice of these
three Canadian soldiers in particular, but also to all 158 CAF members lost during the
campaign. This event was particularly poignant as the CAF completes its military mission
in Afghanistan in March 2014.
Above: From L-R, LCol Kim Lapointe, Col Peter Scott and BGen Todd
Balfe with Village Elders attending the opening of the new computer
lab at the Lycee Safiullah Afzalee in Kabul, 25 Feb 2014.
2013 was a busy and
challenging year for
the
4th
Battalion,
The Royal Canadian
Regiment (4 RCR). The
Battalion maintained a
busy training schedule
conducting individual
and collective training
at the unit level as well
as with 31 Canadian
Brigade Group (31
CBG) and the 4th
Col W.J. Pettipas, CD, Honorary
Canadian Division (4
Lieutenant-Colonel of the
Cdn Div). Additionally,
4th Battalion, The Royal
members of 4 RCR
Canadian Regiment
participated in several
ceremonial
taskings
and duties and were active in the community through
charity events and Op CONNECTION, the Canadian
Armed Forces’ (CAF) effort to use all appropriate
resources in a coordinated campaign to connect with
Canadians.
4 RCR
4 RCR remained an important element of 31 Brigade,
parading 162 soldiers out of a total establishment of
215. The soldiers and officers of 4 RCR continued to
demonstrate professionalism and dedication while
balancing their duties in the profession of arms with their
full time civilian vocation and responsibilities to their
families.
4 RCR continued to act as a leader within 31 CBG and
was tasked as the Brigade lead for collective training in
2013. As a result, 4 RCR provided the command elements
and headquarters staff for 31 CBG’s Territorial Battalion
Group (31 TBG) during Exercise (Ex) ARROWHEAD
PRECEPT 13, Ex ARROWHEAD CALM 13, and Ex
STALWART GUARDIAN 13 (Ex SG 13). The exercises
were centered on a Defence of Canada scenario and
66 PRO PATRIA 2013
PRO PATRIA 2013 67
focused on achieving offensive operations Battle Task Standards (BTS). Ex STALWART
GUARDIAN 13 was a 4 Cdn Div exercise and culminated in the validation of 31 TBG 13
to level 4 BTS. Some of the key positions held by 4 RCR members during Ex STALWART
GUARDIAN 13 were as follows:
•
CO 31 TBG - LCol Joe Robinson
•
RSM 31 TBG - CWO Rob Talach
•
G3 33 CBG (Ex SG 13) - Maj Joe Hentz
•
S3 31 TBG - Capt Peter Reintjes
•
S9 31 TBG - Capt Kane Erickson
•
SDO 31 TBG HQ - Capt Stephen Tremaine
•
HQ Sergeant-Major 31 TBG - MWO Jim Kolar
•
Ops WO 31 TBG – WO Jeff Burke.
In addition to being the Brigade lead for 31 CBG’s collective training, 4 RCR continued to
support the 31 Canadian Brigade Group Commander’s main effort of individual training,
with members Extra Regimentally Employed at 31 Canadian Brigade Group Battle School
(31 CBG BSL) and with the conduct of unit level individual training by Sierra and X-Ray
Companies (S and X Coys). X Coy conducted a Basic Military Qualification (BMQ) Course,
as well as a Developmental Period 1 Infantryman Module 1 (DP1 Inf Mod 1) Course, while
S Coy conducted a sub-unit battle school qualifying soldiers on Winter Warfare - Basic
(WWB), Driver Wheeled, and the Army Tactical Information Communication Systems Basic (ATICS-Basic) courses.
31 CBG BSL is the training centre for 31 CBG and conducts an array of individual training
courses annually, including: BMQ, Basic Military Qualification Land (BMQ Land), DP1
Inf Mod 1, Driver Wheeled, ATICS-Basic, and Developmental Period 2 (DP2) Weapons
Detachment Member (WDM). Members of the Battalion are regularly Extra Regimentally
Employed for brief periods as staff and instructors at 31 CBG BSL. Maj Peter Reintjes
was employed as the Deputy Commanding Officer and Chief Instructor at the school
and CWO Rob Talach was the Regimental Sergeant-Major (RSM). MWO Curtis Lucas was
the Company Sergeant-Major (CSM) of Bravo Company, the school’s training company,
headquartered out of The Royal School Building at Wolseley Barracks in London, Ontario.
Two current and three former members of the Battalion are Extra Regimentally Employed
at 31 CBG Headquarters.
•
Commander 31 CBG - Col Brock Millman
•
31 CBG Brigade CWO - CWO David Ellyatt
•
A/PAO 31 CBG HQ - Capt Michael O’Leary
•
G3 Resources - Sgt Javier Guzman
•
London Garrison Recruiter - Sgt Adam Bahm
68 PRO PATRIA 2013
Former RSM of 4 RCR, CWO Robert Talach, CD receives a gift of miniaturized Queen’s and Battalion
Colours of 4 RCR from the previous CO, LCol Garry Willaert, CD (Ret’d).
CHANGE OF APPOINTMENT
At the conclusion of 4 Cdn Div’s Ex STALWART GUARDIAN 13, the Commander of 33
CBG and a former member of the Regiment, Col Howard Coombs, presided over the
Change of Appointment of the RSM of 4 RCR. Members of the Battalion looked on as the
RSM’s pace stick was passed from the outgoing RSM, CWO Rob Talach, to the incoming,
and newly promoted, CWO Henry Klausnitzer. CWO Talach was presented with a gift of
miniaturized Queen’s and Battalion Colours from his previous fire-team partner and the
previous Commanding Officer, LCol Gary Willaert (Ret’d.).
NEW COMPANY DESIGNATIONS
In the newest version of the Regimental Standing Orders (RSOs) the three active companies
within 4 RCR received new designations that tie them to local communities with which the
Battalion has historical connections. Sierra Company became affiliated with the County
of Middlesex, Tango Company with the City of Stratford, and X-Ray Company with the
City of Woodstock. All of the companies acquired new company crests which reflect the
communities with which they are now affiliated.
PRO PATRIA 2013 69
his role as CSM of T Coy, as well as Officer in Command (OIC) Armoury of the Stratford
Armoury. Sgt Thomas Charette, Regular Force Support Staff (RSS), continues to provide
support to T Coy on a full time basis. Sgt Patrick Cade and Sgt Timothy Irving complete
the T Coy training cadre.
X-RAY COMPANY
From left to right: the new Sierra Company Crest, the new Tango Company Crest, the new X-Ray Company Crest.
SIERRA COMPANY
Sierra Company (S Coy) remained structurally the same. Company Headquarters along
with 1 and 2 Platoons are located in Wolseley Hall in London, Ontario. 3 Platoon remains
in the Stratford Armoury in Stratford, Ontario. Sierra Company’s Headquarters saw a large
transition with Maj Joe Hentz assuming command of the Company after LCol Benjamin
Reavely’s departure to the Essex and Kent Scottish Regiment (E&K Scots). The second
half of the command team also changed with MWO Jim Kolar replacing WO Jeff Burke as
CSM. Capt Kane Erickson continued as the Sierra Company Second-in-Command (2IC).
Company Headquarters received a boost this year with the addition of Capt Peter Keane
as the Coy Operations Officer and Capt Brett Griffiths as the Coy Training Officer. Lt Scott
Burke continued to command 1 Platoon while OCdt Kalin Walters assumed command of 2
Platoon and 2Lt Richard McWatt took command of 3 Platoon.
In addition to running a number of interesting and challenging collective training events
at the company level and supporting the Battalion in its role as brigade lead, S Coy
conducted a number of individual training courses in order to increase the skill sets of
the soldiers. Over 50 soldiers in the Company earned qualifications and acquired skills
in winter warfare, communications, and driving. This increased the effectiveness of the
Company as a whole.
TANGO COMPANY
Tango Company (T Coy) continues to provide logistical support to the Stratford Armoury
as well as offering support to S Coy in the conduct of training. T Coy consists of a cadre
of seasoned non-commissioned officers (NCOs) who supervise the functioning of the
Stratford Armoury and assist with training as required. MWO Bruce Proper continues in
70 PRO PATRIA 2013
X-Ray Company (X Coy) comprises Battalion Headquarters and fills various integral Combat
Service Support roles. X Coy also saw changes at the command team level. Capt Stephen
Tremaine assumed the role of Acting Officer Commanding (OC) X Coy and continued as
Battalion Operations Officer (Ops O). WO Jeff Burke joined the OC as a new Command
Team partner, assuming the role of CSM of X Coy. Sgt Patricia Cote was posted to 4 RCR as
the new Chief Clerk to lead the Battalion Orderly Room (BOR) Staff. Sgt Christopher Murdy
continues in his role as the Regimental Quartermaster (RQ) in the Battalion and MWO
Curtis Lucas continues in his role as Transport Officer (TO). This year, under the leadership
of Lt Rhys Stevenson and Sgt Evan Stevens, X Coy was the lead for a 31 CBG high school
co-op where students obtained the BMQ and DP1 Inf Mod 1 qualifications in addition to
earning high school credits. During 2013, X Coy received a position for a Brigade Recruiter
to work out of X Coy lines and assist in force generating the next generation of Royal
Canadians. Sgt Adam Bahm was the successful applicant for the full time position and
works diligently to ensure that units in the London Garrison have the recruits they need in
order to remain effective.
MEDAL OF BRAVERY
Cpl Joel Fraser, a soldier of S Coy, was awarded the Medal of Bravery on August 28th, 2013
by His Excellency the Right Honourable David Johnston, CC, CMM, COM, CD, GovernorGeneral and Commander-in-Chief of Canada. Cpl Fraser was awarded the medal for his
actions in his civilian capacity as a Constable with the Sarnia Police Service. On October
31, 2011, he along with a fellow officer and a civilian on a ride-along, braved smoke and
fire to drag a man from his burning apartment. This act is a reflection of the qualities
expected of a member of the Regiment and reflects positively on Cpl Fraser, the Sarnia
Police Service and the Regiment.
CANADIAN PATROL COMPETITION TEAM
The Canadian Patrol Competition in 2013 was a mentally and physically challenging
opportunity for soldiers of the Canadian Army to test themselves with a series of patrolrelated tasks at the Wainwright Garrison. 4 RCR rose to the occasion by providing a sizeable
contribution to one of 31 CBG’s teams. Capt Peter Keane, MCpl Jeffry Wybo, Cpl Zachary
Clare, Cpl Christopher Grondin, Cpl Julien Porcher, and Cpl Jason Thepmontry, along with
a soldier from the Essex and Kent Scottish Regiment, beat out other teams from within 31
CBG and then other Primary Reserve teams from within 4 Cdn Div in order to earn a place
at the national competition. Once earning a place at the Canadian Patrol Competition,
the 4 RCR-led team successfully navigated through the course. This was a testament to
the team’s ability to cope with stressful, difficult conditions given that many of the teams
selected were unable to complete the competition. In recognition of their hard work and
dedication, the members of the team received CO’s Commendations.
PRO PATRIA 2013 71
Sgt Christopher Murdy, CD speaks about the contributions of 4 RCR members to Task Force Afghanistan at the 2013
Paardeberg Ball. Maj Martin Anderson, CD holds the TF Afghanistan Plaque (commemorating the contributions
of 4 RCR members to various tours and missions within Afghanistan) and CWO Talach, CD looks on.
CEREMONIAL EVENTS
The Annual Paardeberg Ball
On March 3rd, 2013, 4 RCR hosted the annual Paardeberg Ball in London, Ontario to
celebrate the 113th anniversary of the Battle of Paardeberg Drift. Members of the
Regimental Family from across the area gathered to enjoy a meal and dancing in the Grand
Ballroom of the Delta London Armouries Hotel. 31 CBG Photojournalist and former 4 RCR
Member, Cpl Harvey Taylor, was on hand to capture photographs of attendees in front of a
full size replica of the Dawn of Majuba Day painting on loan from the Regimental Museum.
The Paardeberg Dedication Award is historically the only presentation at the Paarderberg
Ball. The recipient for 2013 was Sgt Christopher Murdy. A plaque was also presented to
the Battalion showing the names of the members of the Battalion who deployed on various
missions in the Afghanistan theatre of operations.
Battle of York Commemoration
On 27 April, 2013, over 1000 sailors from the Royal Canadian Navy and soldiers from the
Canadian Army took part in a parade and ceremony to mark the 200th anniversary of the
Battle of York. 4 RCR offered a substantial contribution to this contingent. Several soldiers
of the Battalion marched from Queens Park to Fort York in one of the largest military
parades ever organized in the City of Toronto.
72 PRO PATRIA 2013
Support to the Regimental Museum
On the 28th of September, 2013, The Royal Canadian
Regiment Museum officially opened the new doors
to its expansion in the west wing of historic Wolseley
Hall at Wolseley Barracks. The new space allows
the museum to showcase an array of Regimental
history not shown before, including an exhibit on the
Regiment’s involvement in the International Security
and Assistance Force (ISAF) combat and training
missions in Afghanistan, the history of the Reserve
Clockwise from top left: Cpl David Ewing is
inspected by the Honourable David C Onley, OOnt,
Lieutenant Governor of Ontario during the Battle of
York Commemoration Parade in Toronto, Ontario.
Several members of 4 RCR form part of a guard
during the Battle of York Commemoration
Parade in Toronto on April 27, 2013.
MCpl Benjamin Genereux (then Cpl), MCpl
Harrison Genereux and MCpl Kurt Elliott take part
in the Battle of York Commemoration Parade.
PRO PATRIA 2013 73
Remembrance Day
This year the 4th Battalion provided support to the Regimental ceremony as well as several
local Remembrance Day ceremonies. November 11th, 2013 was a cold, rainy day when the
CO assumed command of the main body of the Battalion, divided into two guards on the
parade square in front of the Regimental Cenotaph at the Home Station, Wolseley Barracks.
The Regimental Remembrance Day Ceremony continues to grow and attendance this year
well exceeded the available seating. 4 RCR provided the vigil guard for the Regimental
Cenotaph at the Home Station. MCpl Antonio Mastrotucci commanded the vigil guard
comprised of Cpl Ryan Brookfield, Cpl Zackary Clare, Cpl Jeremy Gilmore-Sinclair, and
Cpl Julien Porcher. 4 RCR also contributed to several local communities’ Remembrance
Day ceremonies by providing members or complete vigil guards for the Cities of London,
Stratford, Strathroy, Woodstock, and the Town of St. Mary’s. Members of the Battalion also
attended local schools, Legions, and businesses to speak about the sacrifices made by
soldiers during conflicts.
Ex ROYAL HOOT 13
Above: Sgt Damien Arbour, CD and the 4 RCR
Quarter Guard present arms during the national
Consistent with tradition, Exercise ROYAL HOOT 13 commenced with the Ptes/Cpls, MCpls,
Sgts/WOs and Officers engaging in a friendly but competitive ball hockey tournament. The
competition was fierce, but in the end the Officers led by Capt Peter Keane managed
to beat out the three NCM teams and earn the coveted 4 RCR Ball Hockey Trophy and
bragging rights for a year. Following the competition, members of the 4th Battalion moved
to the Warrant Officers’ and Sergeants’ Mess for a formal dinner, with the soldiers served
by the Officers, Warrants Officers, and Sergeants. Pte Anthony Currie, the youngest soldier
in the Battalion, was the CO for the evening and Cpl Tackley, the oldest corporal in the
Battalion, was the RSM. Several awards, medals and promotions were awarded between
the courses of the dinner. Maj Joe Hentz presented LCol Joe Robinson with a Commander’s
anthem at The RCR Museum re-opening.
Photographer: Capt M.M. O’Leary CD, 31 CBG PAO.
Right: Soldiers of 4 RCR line the new entrance
to The RCR Museum wearing historical full
dress and contemporary camouflage uniforms.
Photographer: Capt M.M. O’Leary CD, 31 CBG PAO.
components of the Regiment, and the original Dawn of Majuba Day painting. Soldiers
from 4 RCR provided assistance to the re-opening by supporting planning, coordinating
the re-opening ceremony, as well as providing a quarter guard and weapons display for the
event. Several senior members of the Regiment were in attendance: including the Colonel
of the Regiment, Col W.J. Aitchison, The Honourary Lieutenant Colonel of 4 RCR, Col
Pettipas, BGen Simms, Chairman of the Regimental Senate and Commander of Canadian
Joint Operational Support Group, BGen Jorgensen, Chief of Staff (COS) to the Vice-Chief
of the Defence Staff (VCDS), BGen Lavoie, Commander of 4 Cdn Div, BGen O’Brien (Ret’d),
Chairman of the RCR Museum Board of Directors and Col Campbell, the Assistant Chief
of Staff Support at 4th Cdn Div Headquarters, as well as several other senior officers and
dignitaries.
74 PRO PATRIA 2013
MWO Jim Kolar, CD and WO Jesus Guzman Rico march on their guards
at the Home Station Remembrance Day ceremony at the Regimental
Cenotaph. Photographer: Capt M.M. O’Leary CD, 31 CBG PAO.
PRO PATRIA 2013 75
vehicle pennant for his service as CO 31 TBG. The pennant was made out of the camp flag
that flew at 31 TBG’s FOB throughout the conduct of Ex STALWART GUARDIAN 13. Capt
Brian Telfer (Ret’d) was also in attendance and received his Canadian Forces Decoration
and Adjutant’s vehicle pennant.
The 130th Regimental Birthday Dinner 21 Dec 13
On the 21st of December, 2013, Officers, Warrant Officers and Sergeants of the Regiment
gathered at the Wolseley Barracks Officers’ Mess to celebrate the 130th birthday
of the Regiment with a formal mess dinner. Former members of the Battalion were
“Beavered Out,” receiving silver beaver statues from the Regiment, among other gifts,
to commemorate their service to Canada and the Regiment. BGen O’Brien (Ret’d) spoke
about LCol Benjamin Reavely’s service to the Regiment and LCol Reavely took time to
say goodbye to members of the 4th Battalion. Capt Brian Telfer (Ret’d) received his silver
beaver from Capt Jerry Rozic, who spoke about Capt Telfer’s service to the Regiment.
TRAINING HIGHLIGHTS
Winter Warfare
Ex ROYAL FROST I (18-20 Jan 13) took place in the local area at the Henderson Farm
in Bayfield, Ontario. The exercise focused on the core skill sets that every soldier must
possess in order to be effective in a cold weather environment. Soldiers often prefer to
train in the local area, as it allows for more time to focus on the conduct of training rather
than the lengthy commute to Meaford. Ex ROYAL FROST II (1-3 Feb 13) took the core
winter warfare skills developed during Ex ROYAL FROST I and added the more advanced
warfighting skills that are required of an infantry soldier. S Coy deployed to 4 Cdn Div
TC Meaford and established a coy level hide from which they planned and conducted a
coy level raid, supported by live overhead fire from C6 General Purpose Machine Guns
(GPMGs) in the Sustained Fire (SF) role. The incorporation of live fire adds a level of realism
that is not always possible on a weekend ex. S Coy accomplished a successful raid on
Sunday, concluding a challenging and effective exercise.
Ex TRILLIUM RESPONSE 13 (11-22 Feb 13)
Ex TRILLIUM RESPONSE 2013 was a 4 Cdn Div exercise which was aimed at validating 4
Cdn Div’s contingency plans for deploying soldiers in a Defence of Canada scenario into
Northern Ontario in adverse winter conditions. The Ex took place in the areas surrounding
the towns of Cochrane and Moosonee. Several soldiers from 4 RCR volunteered and were
selected to augment the 31 CBG Arctic Response Company Group (ARCG). The scenario
was comprehensive and involved several civilian organizations such as the Royal Canadian
Mounted Police, the Ontario Provincial Police, Transport Canada, and the Ministry of
Natural Resources. The training was arduous at times, but the soldiers overcame the harsh
weather conditions to accomplish the mission.
Offensive Operations
The Grey and Simcoe Foresters (G&SF) invited 4 RCR to send soldiers to augment their rifle
company on Ex FORESTER THUNDER (8-10 Mar 13) which consisted of platoon level live
fire training which was accompanied by live fire artillery support. Live fire exercises at the
76 PRO PATRIA 2013
platoon level are rare for Army Reserve soldiers, and to conduct them in conjunction with
live fire artillery is rarer still. This ex was a tremendous training opportunity on which many
members of the Battalion were able to capitalize. Ex ROYAL VENGEANCE (15-17 Mar 13)
saw 4 RCR deploying S Coy to conduct offensive operations at the company level. S Coy
deployed and conducted coy level advance to contact drills across the northern areas of
Meaford. After pushing far enough west, S Coy secured a coy level hide to conduct battle
procedure for a fighting patrol on the Sunday. The ambitious plan, coupled with adverse
weather conditions, provided a challenging training experience for the soldiers, while
simultaneously completing many of S Coy’s Battle Task Standards (BTS) and preparing for
Ex ARROWHEAD CALM 13 and Ex STALWART GUARDIAN 13.
Ex PACHINO DAY (13 Jul 13)
On July 13th, 2013, the 4th Battalion moved to Cedar Springs Range and Training Area
to celebrate the Regiment’s service at Pachino and to complete many soldiers’ Personal
Weapon Tests (PWT) on the C7 Service Rifle. The range was followed by a spaghetti lunch.
31 TBG COLLECTIVE TRAINING
4 RCR was the 31 Brigade lead for collective training in 2013. Under the direction of
Exercise Control (Ex Con), 4 RCR conducted and directed the tactical portions of Brigade
collective training. Ex ARROWHEAD PRECEPT 13 (8-10 Feb 13) was a computer assisted
exercise (CAX) which occurred at Wolseley Barracks in London, Ontario. This allowed all of
the sub-units and their respective headquarters to gather and prepare themselves for the
upcoming exercises. Ex ARROWHEAD CALM 13 (10-12 May 13) was conducted at CFB
Borden and allowed the infantry, armoured recce, and combat engineer sub-units to gather
under 31 TBG 13 HQ and validate to the platoon level. With all of this groundwork in
place, 4 RCR deployed with the rest of the Brigade as 31 TBG 13 to 4 Cdn Div TC Meaford
from 18-25 Aug for Ex STALWART GUARDIAN 13. The exercise saw sub-units deploy
and conduct mission rehearsals both at 4 Cdn Div TC Meaford and in the surrounding
communities in order to prepare them for a final TBG level raid on the Village of Ortona at
4 Cdn Div TC Meaford. All soldiers on Ex STALWART GUARDIAN 13 were equipped with
Weapons Effect Simulation (WES) gear which added a level of realism and increased the
training value of the exercise. The exercise culminated with the validation of 31 TBG 13 to
the company group level (level 4).
Ex ROYAL VALOUR 13 (12-15 Sept 13)
In an attempt to maximize Individual Battle Task Standards (IBTS) completion early in the
training cycle, it has become a 4 RCR tradition to conduct an IBTS focused exercise in
September. During Ex ROYAL VALOUR, soldiers of the Battalion deployed to 4 Cdn Div
TC Meaford to complete PWTs on a variety of weapon systems, throw grenades, conduct
chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) drills in the gas hut, participate in
improvised explosive device (IED)/mine awareness, conduct vehicle check points (VCPs),
practice detainee/prisoner searches, and participate in a Battle Fitness Test (BFT). Ex
ROYAL VALOUR serves to put 4 RCR in a position to concentrate on collective training
through much of the training year.
PRO PATRIA 2013 77
Toys for Tots
4 RCR continues to support the local communities through the Toys for Tots program. An
adaptation of the United States Marine Corp Reserve Program, Toys for Tots in the London
area has been supported by the Canadian Armed Forces for 15 years. Reserve and Regular
soldiers, sailors, and airmen collect, sort, and deliver donations of toys for children who
may not otherwise receive gifts at Christmas. Hundreds of hours of unpaid volunteer work
are contributed to Toys for Tots annually by members of 4 RCR in an effort to serve their
community.
SPECIAL REMARKS, APPOINTMENTS, RETIREMENTS, AND DEPARTURES
This year, Cpl Jeremy Delos Reyes completed the Canadian Armed Forces Basic Parachutist
Course. Getting selected for the course is extremely difficult for soldiers of the Army
Reserve and achieving this was a testament to Cpl Delos Reyes’ dedication and fitness.
4 RCR lost two senior and dedicated officers this year to the Essex and Kent Scottish
Regiment. Maj Benjamin Reavely departed his position as Officer Commanding Sierra
Company to assume the role of Commanding Officer of the E&K Scots. Capt David
Mimnagh departed to assume the role of Officer Commanding Alpha Company, E&K Scots.
Sgt Christopher Murdy, CD shows Christian Gutierrez the C8A2 Carbine as part of his wish to be a soldier for a day.
Ex ROYAL PATHFINDER (25-27 Oct 13)
After completing IBTS, 4 RCR shifted its training focus to four and eight man recce patrols.
Ex ROYAL PATHFINDER took place at 4 Cdn Div TC Meaford and saw S Coy deploy
two platoons in a force-on-force patrolling competition. Both platoons deployed and
established a platoon patrol base from which they conducted four and eight man recce
patrols in an attempt to locate, define, and call in notional indirect fire on the other. To
increase the challenge for the soldiers, the S Coy Weapons Detachment deployed into the
operations box (Op Box), to deny open ground and roadways to the patrols.
4 RCR IN THE COMMUNITY
Children’s Wish Foundation (Soldier for a Day)
On November 29, 2013, 4 RCR helped fulfill Christian Gutierrez’s wish of being a soldier.
Christian applied to the Children’s Wish Foundation, requesting they grant his wish to
spend a day as a Canadian Army soldier and 4 RCR members eagerly stepped up to the
plate to help fulfill Christian’s wish. He was outfitted with a Canadian Disruptive Pattern
(CADPAT) uniform and Full Fighting Order to aid him in completing his tasks. 4 RCR’s
RQ, Sgt Christopher Murdy, broke out all of the weapons in the 4 RCR vault, allowing
Christian to learn basic handling drills on each. WO Raymond Morris, an employee of
General Dynamics Land Systems when he is not fulfilling his duties as S Coy CQ, arranged
for a Light Armoured Vehicle III (LAV III) to be provided for the day by his civilian employer
to chauffeur Christian and his section about.
78 PRO PATRIA 2013
The Battalion also saw the departure of a dedicated officer in Capt Brian Telfer. Capt Telfer
had served in the Battalion since 2000. He served in numerous capacities, becoming a
senior Captain and filling the role of Adjutant twice. Capt Telfer transferred to the Canadian
Armed Forces Supplementary Reserve.
AWARDS
In 2013 the following annual awards were presented:
•
Paardeberg Award - Sgt Christopher Murdy
•
Ogelsby Award for Top Section S Coy - 1 Platoon 1 Section
•Facta Non Verba (Top Senior NCO or Warrant Officer) - WO Raymond
Morris
•
The South Africa Shield (Soldier of the Year) - Cpl Julien Porcher
•The Honorary Lieutenant-Colonel Award (CSS Soldier of the Year) Sgt Earnest Eady
•
The 4 RCR Marksmanship Award - Cpl Jason Thepmontry
The following members were recipients of additional awards:
•
Medal of Bravery (Civilian) - Cpl Joel Fraser (Sarnia Police Service)
•
Canadian Forces Decoration, First Clasp - Capt Brett Griffiths
•
Canadian Forces Decoration - Maj Joe Hentz
•
Canadian Forces Decoration - Capt Brian Telfer (Ret’d)
PRO PATRIA 2013 79
•
Canadian Forces Decoration - WO Raymond Morris
•
Canadian Forces Decoration - Sgt Damien Arbour
•
Canadian Forces Decoration - Sgt Adam Bahm
•
Canadian Forces Decoration - MCpl Jeffery Wybo
Adjt - Capt Matthew Prince
RQMS - Sgt Christopher Murdy
•
Canadian Forces Decoration - Cpl Timothy McPhee
RSM - CWO Henry Klausnitzer
Chief Clerk - Sgt Trish Cote
•
31 CBG Comd Commendation - Maj Peter Reintjes
DSM/CSM T Coy - MWO Bruce Proper
Trg NCO London - Sgt Michael Bourque
•
31 CBG Comd Commendation - Capt Stephen Tremaine
OC S Coy - Maj Joe Hentz
Trg NCO Stratford - Sgt Thomas Charette
•
31 CBG Comd Commendation - Sgt Timothy Irving
CSM S Coy - MWO Jim Kolar
•
4 RCR CO’s Commendation - Capt Peter Keane
OC X/Ops O - Capt Stephen Tremaine
•
4 RCR CO’s Commendation - WO Raymond Morris
CSM X Coy - WO Jeff Burke
•
4 RCR CO’s Commendation - MCpl Jeffery Wybo
TO - MWO Curtis Lucas
•
4 RCR CO’s Commendation - Cpl Zachary Claire
Ops NCO - WO Russell Collins
•
4 RCR CO’s Commendation - Cpl Christopher Grondin
•
4 RCR CO’s Commendation - Cpl Julien Porcher
•
4 RCR CO’s Commendation - Cpl Jason Thepmontry
KEY UNIT APPOINTMENTS AS OF DEC 2013
KEY UNIT PROMOTIONS (new rank indicated)
Hon LCol - Col William J. Pettipas
LCol Benjamin Reavely (CO E&K Scots)
WO Christopher Murdy
CO - LCol Joe Robinson
Maj Joe Hentz
Sgt Allison Knapp
DCO - Maj Martin Anderson
Maj Peter Reintjes
Sgt Braden McIntyre
Capt Brett Griffiths
MCpl Tracey Acs (RMS Clerk)
Capt Peter Keane
MCpl Benjamin Genereux
Capt Aaron Lesarge
MCpl Matthew Shipman
CWO Henry Klausnitzer
MCpl Nichole Zapadka
MWO Jim Kolar
MWO Curtis Lucas (RMS Clerk)
WO Holly Costello (RMS Clerk)
Col Howard Coombs, CD, Commander of 33 CBG, presents WO
Raymond Morris with his Canadian Forces Decoration.
80 PRO PATRIA 2013
PRO PATRIA 2013 81
War of 1812
Commemorative
Banner Presented to
1st Battalion The Royal
Canadian Regiment
By MCpl A.G. Macleod, Sect 2IC, Reconnaissance Platoon, 1 RCR, in
collaboration with Capt R.A. Appleton, Regimental Adjutant
T
years on 15-16 August 1812. A combined force of British Regulars, First Nation Allies, and
Canadian Militia, commanded by Major-General Sir Isaac Brock, defeated a much larger
American army, thus capturing the fort and town of Detroit. Detroit was both an early and a
decisive engagement in the War of 1812. Psychologically it helped galvanize the defence of
Upper Canada in the face of imminent American invasion. Brock’s small army consisted of
some 330 British Regulars of the 41st Regiment of Foot (The Welch Regiment); First Nation
warriors numbering 600; and 400 Canadian Militiamen. The very significant First Nation
contingent was commanded by the famous Shawnee leader, Tecumseh. The defending
American force of 2,182 officers and men was commanded by Brigadier-General William
Hull. Hull’s command was made up of 1,600 Militiamen and 582 Regulars of the U.S. 4th
Infantry Regiment. The British 41st Regiment of Foot would be subsequently awarded the
Battle Honour “Detroit.”
The presentation of the War of 1812 Commemorative Banner to 1 RCR, and other
Battalions of The Royal Canadian Regiment, came as a result of the Regiment having
been awarded the following War of 1812 Battle Honours: Defence of Canada - 1812-1815;
Detroit; and Niagara. The award of these Battle Honours was by way of perpetuating the
honours of the 1st Regiment of Middlesex Militia (1812-1815) and the 1st Regiment of
Oxford Militia (1812-1815). The 1st Regiment of Middlesex Militia and the 1st Regiment of
Oxford Militia are War of 1812 Canadian Militia units that are now perpetuated by The RCR.
This perpetuation comes from the long-standing geographic and civic ties with London
and Southwest Ontario of the 4th Battalion The Royal Canadian Regimen (4 RCR), and its
antecedent incarnations, including: the London and Oxford Fusiliers, Canadian Fusiliers
(City of London Regiment)/7th Infantry Battalion “Prince Arthur’s Own”; and the Oxford
Fusiliers/22nd Battalion Volunteer Militia Rifles.
The War of 1812 was fought between the United States of America and the British Empire
from 18 June 1812 - 18 February 1815. The Americans were, by and
large, the aggressors. Their objectives were to capture strategic
Top left: The War of 1812
locations in Upper Canada (Ontario), Lower Canada (Quebec), and
Commemorative Banner
to subsequently occupy and settle the great expanse of lands to
is presented by Col S.C.
the West.
Hetherington, Comd 2
he Royal Canadian Regiment is one of several Canadian infantry regiments that
now perpetuate the history and heritage of War of 1812 units that no longer exist.
In consequence of this recently bestowed honour the members of the 1st Battalion,
The Royal Canadian Regiment (1 RCR) stood on parade on the morning of Monday April
15th 2013. This was not an everyday Battalion parade. The Battalion was about to receive
a commemorative flag memorializing the Regiment’s connection with units of the Canadian
Militia that fought in the War of 1812. The Commander of 2 Canadian Mechanized Brigade
Group (2 CMBG), Colonel S.C. Hetherington, presented the War of 1812 Banner to the
Commanding Officer of the 1st Battalion The Royal Canadian Regiment, LieutenantColonel J.D. Price. The banner was then paraded before the soldiers of the Battalion, who
looked on with pride.
For example, The Royal Canadian Regiment, along with six other Canadian regiments,
was awarded the Battle Honour “DETROIT.” The Siege or Battle of Detroit took place 201
82 PRO PATRIA 2013
The Americans declared war on the British Empire on June 18,
1812 while the British were embroiled in a protracted and difficult
war with France in Europe. The American strategy on land was to
launch a three-pronged invasion of Canada along three different
axes of advance. These respective fronts were known as the Detroit
River Frontier, the Niagara Frontier, and the Lake Champlain
Frontier, the latter a corridor that led to Montreal. Thomas
CMBG, to LCol J.D. Price, CO
of 1 RCR, on 15 Apr 2014.
Top right: WO Russell
parades the War of 1812
Banner before the Battalion
at Victoria Barracks.
PRO PATRIA 2013 83
Major-General Sir Isaac Brock, hero of the War of 1812, successfully
defended Upper Canada against the Americans throughout 1812,
though he fell in battle at Queenston Heights on 13 October 1812.
Jefferson, a former President of the United States
had boasted, “The acquisition of Canada this year, as
far as the neighbourhood of Quebec, will be a mere
matter of marching, and will give us experience for
the attack on Halifax next, and the final expulsion of
England from the American continent.” However, the
unpreparedness of the American military for war and
the strong resistance it met from the citizenry of British
North America, the British regular troops, and the First
Nations resulted in each attack ending in failure.
In early 1813 the Americans gained control of the
Detroit Frontier and were temporarily able to dominate the Niagara Frontier. However,
the Americans were eventually pushed back on the Niagara front in late 1813, while they
were also defeated as they unsuccessfully attempted to advance on the Lake Champlain
Frontier. The United States was simultaneously preoccupied with British raiding of its
Eastern Seaboard.
The Royal Navy attacked many ports and harbours on America’s Atlantic coast. British
landing parties, consisting of sailors and marines, would land and seize military stores
and contraband goods and destroy shipyards and vessels deemed to be involved in the
American privateering campaign against Britain. These amphibious raids came as a direct
result of the burning by American troops of the towns of Niagara-on-the-Lake (then known
The Niagara River marked the Niagara Frontier
between Upper Canada and New York. This was
the most embattled front of the War of 1812.
The Battle of Queenston
Heights, 13 October
1812. British Regulars,
Canadian Militia
and First Nation
warriors combine
to defeat invading
American forces on
the Niagara Frontier.
as Newark) on 10 December 1813 and of St. David’s, both in Upper Canada. The British
raids were also intended to bring the Americans to the negotiation table and end the war.
Fighting was also fierce on the Great Lakes. There, the Provincial Marine successfully
defended Canadian waters and shores from American naval forces. The members of the
Provincial Marine came from many diverse ethnic backgrounds, anticipating even then the
tolerant, multicultural society that Canada would become. The uniforms of the officers of
the Provincial Marine serving on Lake Ontario were described as, “blue and white, with
large yellow buttons with the figure of a beaver, over which is inscribed the word, Canada”.
In 1814 many significant developments occurred that contributed decisively to the outcome
of the war. British Vice-Admiral Sir Alexander Cochrane issued a proclamation that any
American slave that escaped to rendezvous with his fleet and volunteered for British service
would be freed. This led to approximately 3,600 slaves escaping from bondage in the
United States. Significantly, this was also the year that Napoleon Bonaparte and the French
were defeated in Europe, allowing the British Empire to re-focus on North America and
bring to bear the bulk of its military and naval forces on the American war.
With Napoleon defeated, the British became more aggressive, attacking on more and more
fronts, resulting in the Americans spreading their forces thin. The British took advantage
of this when they launched a campaign by land and water to capture the American base
at Plattsburg, New York in September of 1814. The British army though was ultimately
forced to turn back once it received word that the British naval flotilla in support had been
defeated in the battle of Lake Champlain. Meanwhile, another British army defeated the
Americans at Bladensburg, Maryland on 24 August 1814 and then went on to capture
Washington, D.C., the U.S. capital. Here government buildings, including the White
House and Capitol, were set afire by the British in retaliation for similar American actions
perpetrated in Canada earlier in the war.
The War of 1812 concluded in early 1815 after the signing of the Treaty of Ghent (the
84 PRO PATRIA 2013
PRO PATRIA 2013 85
ERE
1st Canadian Division
Headquarters (1 Cdn Div HQ)
- Op RENAISSANCE 13-01
Remembrance Day 2013 quickly changed from a day
to remember past operations to a day to launch a new
operation for those assigned to the Disaster Assistance
Response Team (DART). Op RENAISSANCE 13-01 would
see 319 Canadian Armed Forces troops deployed to the
PHILIPPINES to conduct relief operations in the aftermath
of TYPHOON HAIYAN, which was called YOLANDA
by the people of the PHILIPPINES. Eight present
and past members of The Royal Canadian Regiment
found themselves involved in relief efforts for the
PHILIPPINES on 11 November instead of participating
in a Remembrance Day Ceremony. Colonel Acton Kilby,
Lieutenant-Colonel Paul Lockhart, Major Michael Percy,
Major Gerry Shellington and Captain Steve Good are all
current members of the The Royal Canadian Regiment,
while Warrant Officer Chris Carter, Corporal Michel
Leblanc and Corporal Ryan O’Keefe are Royal Canadians
who have moved on to new occupations.
treaty was signed on 24 December 1814; ratified three days
later by the British; and ratified on 17 February 1815 by the
Americans). By the time the treaty was signed, the Americans
had given up on attempting to conquer Canada and were in
fact simply struggling to maintain the status quo of 1812. The
overwhelming might of the British military was now potentially
available to carry the war onto American soil. It was finally
agreed that both nations would respect the pre-war borders
(status quo ante bellum) and withdraw their respective troops
behind those borders forthwith.
The War of 1812 demonstrates that Canada has functioned
successfully as a multicultural society almost from its very
beginnings. Canada has always been quick to give aid to
those who needed it, such as in the case of escaped slaves
fleeing the Southern states of America, but has also met any
aggressive action against its borders with fierce resistance.
Since the conclusion of the War of 1812, Canada and the
United States have held the honor of sharing the longest
undefended border in the world, where disputes are now
settled through peaceful negotiations and not through military
might. As a Battalion of The Royal Canadian Regiment, 1 RCR
takes pride in its War of 1812 Banner and celebrates its link
with those units of the Canadian Militia that fought in that
nation-defining conflict.
86 PRO PATRIA 2013
The Battle of Lundy’s Lane,
25 July 1814. British and
Canadian troops clash with
Americans in the largest
and bloodiest battle fought
on Canadian soil during the
War of 1812. The result is a
tactical draw, but a strategic
victory for the British.
Colonel Kilby is the Canadian Defence Attaché in
AUSTRALIA and was dispatched to assist the Canadian
Embassy in MANILA. Lieutenant-Colonel Lockhart is J3
of 1st Canadian Division Headquarters. Major Percy,
Major Shellington, Captain Good and Warrant Officer
Carter, who is now a finance clerk, are all members
of the DART headquarters. Corporal Leblanc is now
an engineer with 4 Engineer Support Regiment and a
member of the DART Engineer Troop. Corporal O’Keefe
is now a Military Policeman and a member of the DART
MP Cell.
ERE
With 1st Canadian Division Headquarters tasked as
the lead mounting unit for Op RENAISSANCE 13-01,
Lieutenant-Colonel Lockhart rode herd on the chaos
that inevitably comes with a short notice deployment.
His task was made even more difficult when the first
flight was dispatched towards the PHILIPPINES without
PRO PATRIA 2013 87
Op RENAISSANCE 13-01 DART
Main Operating Base located at
Villereal Stadium, Roxas City,
Panay Island, the Philippines.
Filipinos demonstrate their
a confirmed Area of Operations. Although the majority of media coverage focused on the
city of TACLOBAN, other areas of the central PHILIPPINES, known as the Visayas Region,
were hit hard as well. This led to the DART deploying to the island of PANAY as that area
had received no outside assistance. To ensure the DART remained in close contact with
the overall relief effort and the Canadian Embassy, Major Shellington joined Colonel Kilby
in Manila as the DART LO to the Multi-National Coordination Centre and the Canadian
Embassy. Roughing it in Manila, he not only kept the DART well informed, he regularly
acted as an unofficial QM and obtained key supplies that were not available on PANAY.
Major Percy, as DCO, oversaw the staging and emplaning of the multiple components of
the DART through 8 Wing Trenton, literally from coast to coast. He managed moment to
moment changes of the programmed flow against priorities in theatre as it was designated
and defined, with his CO frequently airborne 13 time zones away. When the last chalk of
personnel departed, he went forward to continue to provide sterling service keeping the
Joint Task Force on track.
Captain Good served in the DART CP. Captain Good was the J3 Ops and kept a weather
eye on current operations. With the DART CP co-located with both UN Agencies and NonGovernment Aid Organizations in a large conference room in the Capiz Province capitol
building, the atmosphere was often chaotic. While skilfully avoiding some of the more
colourful personalities that popped up from time to time, he provided a much needed air
of calmness in the DART CP.
Warrant Officer Carter, who is still very much a Royal Canadian at heart, is now a clerk who
specializes in finance and was the DART J8. He split his time between the CP, the Main
Operating Base in Villareal Stadium and touring the various deployed locations to provide
pay parades. As the keeper of the cash, he was a popular man. He regularly kept everyone
up to date on how many millions of Pesos he had given out before noting that it actually
translated to a considerably smaller figure in Canadian dollars.
Corporal Leblanc provided engineering expertise not only to projects aimed at assisting
the people of PANAY Island but also to the maintenance of the Canadian Main Operating
Base at Villareal Stadium. Corporal O’Keefe was mainly kept busy with the minor traffic
incidents that arose from the absolute insanity that is driving on PANAY Island. ROXAS
CITY for example does not have a single traffic sign and some roads apparently are oneway (in either direction) or two-way traffic based on the opinion of the majority of the
drivers using it at a given time.
88 PRO PATRIA 2013
gratitude to the DART.
Overall the DART made a significant contribution to the recovery of the PHILIPPINES and
the Royal Canadians, past and present, who played a part are proud to have been able to
participate in Op RENAISSANCE 13-01.
2 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group
Headquarters (2 CMBG HQ)
By Capt P.G. Mayne
It was a busy year for 2 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group (2 CMBG) as they trained
in preparation for assuming the role of the high readiness brigade. The Road to High
Readiness (RTHR) training included low level Individual Battle Task Standard (IBTS) training,
a brigade level Command Post Exercise (CPX) and a brigade level Computer Assisted
Exercise (CAX); culminating with Exercise MAPLE RESOLVE (Ex MR) in Wainwright, Alberta.
Again this year, there were several members of The Royal Canadian Regiment (The RCR)
who held key positions within the Brigade Headquarters (Bde HQ). Although many of the
positions changed during the posting season, continuity was maintained at the core of the
Bde HQ staff in the form of the 2 CMBG Chief of Staff (COS). In his second year as the COS,
LCol Will Graydon continued to provide the HQ staff with inspirational leadership and firm
direction as they conducted their duties. Another prominent position fulfilled by a pair
of outstanding members of The RCR included the role of 2 CMBG Sergeant-Major (Bde
SM). CWO Ambrose Penton spent the majority of the year as the Bde SM before health
concerns forced him to make the difficult decision to transition to eventual retirement.
He was replaced by another exceptional Royal, CWO Keith Olstad. Between them, they
contributed excellent knowledge and leadership to the men and women of 2 CMBG.
At the heart of the Bde HQ’s morale, and arguably the core of all social events, was Maj
Ben Irvine. After arriving from 1 RCR to take over as the 2 CMBG G5, Maj Irvine was quick
to adapt to his new job. He spent countless hours working hard to conduct Operational
Planning Process (OPP) cycles with the Bde HQ team. In his free time, Maj Irvine took
the lead on organizing various extracurricular activities and social events, which were met
with great success and helped to raise the morale of 2 CMBG. Following his tenure as
G3 Ops, Mike Chagnon was promoted to Maj and became the 2 CMBG G7. His focus
PRO PATRIA 2013 89
The Royals who served in 2 CMBG HQ during 2013.
Ortona Pl (DP 1 Inf) – Pte Banks
about to fire 84 MM Heat round
at tank hull on Casino Range.
throughout the year was on major RTHR training exercises such as Ex UNIFIED RESOLVE
(Ex UR) and Ex MR. Maj Chagnon was instrumental in the planning and preparation for Ex
MR in Wainwright and played a major role in preparing 2 CMBG for high readiness.
While the focus for 2 CMBG has been on the RTHR training and preparing for Ex MR, the
Bde HQ staff was also busy getting back to the basics and completing training of their own.
This included a three day winter warfare training exercise in January that focused on basic
cold weather survival skills. WO John Woodworth and WO Stephen Hopkins were two
key individuals who assisted with preparing and conducting this training. During the three
days, the Bde HQ staff replaced their desks and computers with snowshoes and toboggans
and focused on moving and operating as tent groups. As experienced and knowledgeable
Senior NCOs of The RCR, WO Woodworth and WO Hopkins gave lessons on winter
warfare, ice fishing, and improvised shelters. The tasks of teaching how to snare and clean
a rabbit however, fell to Capt Paul Mayne, who coincidentally was the only individual to
successfully catch anything!
At the core of all 2 CMBG operations were three hard working captains of The RCR. Capt
Leslie Kerckhoff (G3 Ops), Capt Mike Urbankiewicz (G3 Trg/SDO) and Capt Mark Lee (G3
Plans) were kept very busy throughout the course of the year and were essential to managing
2 CMBG operations during RTHR training exercises. Finally, it would be neglectful to fail
to mention the hard work and dedication of four key Regimental soldiers who worked for
the Commander of 2 CMBG. MCpl James Nuttall, Cpl Alexander Morland, Cpl Geoffrey
De Melo and Cpl Landon Kippen gave excellent support to the 2 CMBG Command Team.
Additionally, they were all key members of the 2 CMBG HQ hockey team and helped lead
the team to a gold medal in the 2 CMBG sports week known as Ex OLYMPIAN BEAR.
The past year has been very busy for 2 CMBG and the Bde HQ staff. The numerous training
exercises conducted by 2 CMBG units, as well as the Bde level training events, could not
have been possible without the hard work, input and coordination of the various members
of The RCR working within 2 CMBG HQ. These individuals fulfilled important roles and
their high level of professionalism and excellent work ethic made them a vital part of 2
CMBG’s success throughout the year.
90 PRO PATRIA 2013
Photos by Capt Dan Jordan.
4th Canadian Division Training Centre (4 CDTC)
This past year was a significant year for the Training Centre (TC). The TC formally changed its
name from Land Force Central Area Training Centre to 4 Canadian Division Training Centre
(4 CDTC). In addition to the name change the TC saw the departure of the Commanding
Officer, Lieutenant-Colonel William (Bill) Cummings, in July. LCol Cummings handed over
command of the TC to LCol Bryan Bedard, Royal Canadian Artillery. During his tenure as
the Commanding Officer at the TC, LCol Cummings maintained a high tempo and made
many changes that benefited both the students that graduated from TC courses and the
Canadian Armed Forces (CAF).
Winter/spring time saw the TC conduct two DP1 Infantry serials. The courses were run by
Capt Steve Martin and Capt Greg Simon with their respective Course Warrant Officers,
WO Scott Greig and WO John (Johnny) O’Neill. Both courses produced excellent soldiers
who will go on to serve the Regiment and CAF for a long time. In addition to DP1 Infantry
serials, the TC conducted several BMQ(L) serials. The BMQ(L) course is only four weeks in
duration and it is a course that focuses on basic soldier skills for non-infantry members of
the Army. The majority of the BMQ(L) students that attend training at 4 CDTC come from
the Combat Service Support (CSS) trades at CFB Borden.
This training is important and forms the basis of the CSS trades’ knowledge of basic
soldier skills that they will employ throughout their military careers. For most of the BMQ(L)
students this will be the first time and only time that they have the opportunity to practice
these soldier skills before their PLQ course. Therefore there is very little room for error
and the training provided to these students has to be right the first time. The Regimental
slogan of “Never Pass a Fault” takes on a greater significance for the Royals posted to 4
CDTC, Meaford.
The spring/summer is always the busiest time of the year for 4 CDTC personnel, and this
past year was no different with 4 CDTC supporting Reserve Summer Training (RST). In
PRO PATRIA 2013 91
Ortona Pl, acting as QRF, returns to FOB
7 after engaging a hostile force.
Target engaged on the 84 MM range by Pte Banks and his No. 2.
addition to RST the TC hosted two
well-known Canadian celebrities, Mike
Holmes and Bret “The Hitman” Hart.
Mr. Holmes and his crew spent the day
at the TC being put through different
training stands by the TC staff. May
witnessed TC personnel compete in
the CO’s Challenge, consisting of a
12.5 kilometre/40 pound ruck march
to Mountain Lake, a 2 kilometre canoe
circuit and a 12.5 kilometre run (without
ruck) back to the base gym. The OPI
for the event, Sgt Justin Keough, oddly
enough was the winner of the CO’s
Challenge.
Ortona Pl debussing for raid. Pte Rham
acts as Capt Jordan’s signaller while the
platoon take sup fire positions.
After RST the “op tempo” for the TC
did not decrease as it moved into the
fall/winter season. The TC ran a Basic
Hell Day – Ortona Pl engaged in light give and
Sniper course on behalf of 2 CMBG. The
take prior to pugil bouts. Pte Paul (left) and Pte
majority of the Directing Staff (DS) for
Pettit (right) are featured prominently in picture.
the Basic Sniper course came from the
three battalions and the TC. The staff
did an excellent job of instructing the students, representing their battalions well and left
a favourable impression on the TC chain of command. The major event at the TC for the
fall was the 4th Canadian Division Patrol Competition of which 4 CDTC was the OPI. This
competition was held to determine which Primary Reserve (PRes) teams would represent the
Division at the Army Patrol Competition in Wainwright. The patrol competition consisted
of several training stands over a 27 kilometer route that the patrols had to navigate to
92 PRO PATRIA 2013
and complete in a twentyfour hour period. Capt Jesse
Coville-Primeau was the OPI
for the patrol competition
and did an excellent job of
preparing the Division’s two
PRes teams for the Army
Patrol Competition. Both
teams completed the Army
Patrol
Competition
and
placed well in the overall
standings with one of the
teams finishing in fifth place
overall. The TC also hosted
the Owen Sound Attack for
a two day team building
exercise. WO Lamontagne
was the OPI for the team
building event and ensured
that the Attack got their
“money’s worth” from the experience.
Guided by MCpl Rutter, Ortona Pl assault force moves to the attack position
while conducting a raid on a location in the Ortona UO village.
The following Royals were promoted to their current ranks/appointments this past year:
Capt Jesse Coville-Primeau, WO Richard (Rick) Lamontagne, Sgt Justin Keough, Sgt
James Lovelace and MCpl Witold Lason. In addition to being promoted, Sgt Lovelace was
selected to participate in a two week small unit exchange with the Bermuda Regiment this
past January. Sgt Keough competed in the 2 CMBG Ironman and finished second overall
with a time of 5 hours, 59 minutes and 57 seconds.
PRO PATRIA 2013 93
4th Canadian Division Headquarters and Toronto ERE
By Capt R.T. Kidnie, 4 Cdn Div HQ
You could be forgiven for thinking that 4th Canadian Division (formerly Land Force Central
Area) HQ has become the fifth Battalion of The RCR. In large part due the HQ’s location
between Petawawa and London, 4 Cdn Div HQ is very well represented by Royals from the
Commander to the CQ. It’s not surprising then, that members of the Regiment have also
influenced every major decision made across the Division over the course of 2013.
Indeed, members of The Royal Canadian Regiment at 4 Cdn Div HQ have set the standard
within the Headquarters. While the few officers from the PPCLI and the R22eR here wonder
how we serve as staff officers with such chivalry, gallantry and dash, the truth is that it comes
naturally to Royals serving in Canada’s largest city. The other truth is that we continually
look forward to soldiering again and returning to the field force. This desire has shaped
4 Cdn Div exercises like Ex TRILLIUM RESPONSE 13 in Cochrane, ON and STALWART
GUARDIAN 13 in Meaford and maintained a strong showing in the Petawawa Ironman and
the Army Operations Course.
Above: Pte Wass moves to the next firing position
during a platoon fighting withdrawal.
Middle: Pte Fierimonte (front) and Pte Wass (rear)
move a tactical bound with the GPMG C6.
Bottom: Ortona Pl fighting withdrawal continues.
Other notable achievements by Royals
this past year included WO John Doyle
and MCpl Joseph Larocque both
receiving the Division Commander’s
Commendation. Furthermore, MCpl
Larocque was the Division’s nomination
for the Army Sentry Program. Overall,
as is the case in most training centres, it
was a busy year for the Royals posted to
4 CDTC Meaford. All Royals acquitted
themselves well in the performance
of their duties and continue to leave a
lasting impression on their students and
the other military staff at the TC.
Major C.B. (Chris) Beatty,
Officer Commanding
Skills Company
94 PRO PATRIA 2013
Like the rest of the Army, 4 Cdn Div HQ’s focus in 2014 will shift away from Afghanistan
and toward high readiness training for the next operation, wherever it may be. To that
end, much work has gone into ensuring the pieces are in place to support the Army’s
Line of Operation 3 (a major international deployment) and Line of Operation 4 (a minor
international deployment) and a myriad other high profile events like Op WINISK, the Battle
of 1812 Commemoration, the DART deployment to the Philippines and the reception of
the last flight from the Canadian Contribution Training Mission - Afghanistan.
While the posting season promises a significant turnover of Royals within the HQ, the last
year saw a few additions to the HQ team, including Capt Hay, Capt Whittaker and Capt
Loggie. BGen Lavoie remains at the helm of 4 Cdn Div until July 2014. His key advisors
include LCol Cameron, the G3, and Maj Barsby, the G5. The other senior Royals in the Div
HQ include Maj Rushen, the G3 Ops, Maj Barnes, the G5 Transformation and the recently
promoted Maj Whitehead, the G3 Resources, who spent a brief a period as a Captain prior
to his promotion. It is the junior officers, one might argue, who keep the HQ running. This
impressive group includes the recently posted-in Captains, as well as Capt Kidnie, Capt
Lesarge, Capt Mackenzie, Capt Mendyka and 2Lt Cieplik. WO Solomons and Cpl SeredaAshcroft round out the list of Royals working in the HQ.
Without delving into the nuances of the 4 Cdn Div / Joint Task Force Central (JTFC)
relationship that exists within the HQ (one force generates, the other force employs, both are
commanded by the same General), 2014 promises to be a busy year. The Royal Canadians
posted to Toronto look forward to facing these challenges with the same initiative and
tenacity that characterizes their performance when serving in a battalion.
Beyond the third floor of Denison Armoury (home of 4 Cdn Div HQ), there are a large
number of Royals currently serving in the GTA, each filling an RSS position in a Reserve Unit;
however, to suggest that they are simply filling a single position is somewhat misleading.
Given manning shortages, many of the officers have found themselves as their unit’s
Adjutant, Plans O and Ops O, while the NCMs have been simultaneously tasked as Ops
PRO PATRIA 2013 95
WO, Trg NCO and CQ. Not surprisingly, much of the success experienced by units over the
past year can in part be attributed to the Royals in RSS positions and their ability to adapt
in the traditional and professional manner expected of Royals. In doing so, they continue to
reinforce the high standing that officers and NCMs of The Royal Canadian Regiment have
within 4 Cdn Div and the CA as a whole.
Royals currently serving their ERE in RSS positions within the GTA include:
Capt Delaney (32 CBG HQ), Capt Gawel (48 Highrs), Capt Wheeler (CFRC Det Hamilton),
Capt Siversky (R Regt C), Capt Hansen (A & SH of C), Capt Layden (RHLI), Capt Marsh
(CFEME – not RSS), WO Vardy (R Regt C), WO Cleary (Tor Scot R), WO Bechard (48 Highrs),
Sgt Pavlovic (Lorne Scots), Sgt Laidlaw (CFRC Det Toronto), MCpl Marin (R Regt C), MCpl
Drinkwater (CFRC Det Toronto), MCpl Otazu (QOR of C), MCpl Pytlik (48 Highrs) and Cpl
Horan (48 Highrs).
Canadian Army Headquarters
By Captain Ben Rogerson
Gen Thomas Lawson, LGen Marquis
Hainse and LGen Peter Devlin
during the change of command
ceremony on Parliament Hill.
2013 was a busy and eventful year for Royals serving
within the Canadian Army Headquarters. Many notable
events have occurred within the headquarters over the last
year, perhaps the most significant one being the change of
command between LGen Peter Devlin and LGen Marquis
Hainse on Parliament Hill. This auspicious event in the
heart of our nation’s capital was worthy of the occasion of
the change of command of the Canadian Army and the
retirement of LGen Peter Devlin, a remarkable Regimental
officer, after a long and distinguished career. However,
his retirement was short-lived; he was hard at work as
the President of Fanshawe College in London less than a
month after his change of command.
The Regiment remains well represented within the
Canadian Army command team by CWO Michael
Hornbrook, who brings a great deal of energy and
enthusiasm to the Army Headquarters along with his
valued experience. Among the many challenges faced by
the Army Sergeant Major this year, the restoration of the
historical identity of the Canadian Army, as announced by
the Minister of National Defence in July, was certainly one
of the most significant. The Army was able to leverage
CWO Hornbrook’s experience while dealing with the
finer details of the reinstatement of the Canadian Army
CWO Hornbrook, Army Sergeant Major, addresses the Command Team
Course with LGen Marquis Hainse, Commander Canadian Army, at
Maj Rich Gallant, ADC to the CDS, accompanies General Thomas Lawson, Chief of Defence Staff,
on a visit to Op ARTEMIS. They are aboard the HMCS Regina, commanded by Cdr Jason Boyd.
secondary badge, rank nomenclature and insignia, as well as the reinstatement of the
division nomenclature.
There was a significant focus within the Canadian Army Headquarters this year on efficiency,
alignment of the Canadian Army’s narrative, and operationalization of lessons learned.
These topics were pervasive and affected most aspects of the Canadian Army Staff’s daily
work. Most of our members, particularly those who are a bit longer in the tooth, recognize
the cyclical nature of financial austerity and operational tempo within the Army and reacted
well to a shift towards a readiness and force generation focus from a force employment
focus.
It was also a year of significant individual achievement for our members as well. Maj Eleanor
Taylor’s recognition by the Women’s Executive Network as one of Canada’s Most Powerful
Women on their Top 100 List stood out. Major Taylor was recognized under the Trail Blazers
and Trendsetters category which was created to recognize women who are either the first
in their field or have made a major impact in and who have made a great contribution to
Canadian society in any field of endeavour.
Maj Rich Gallant was quite relieved to be posted out of his dreary and unexciting position
as Aide de Camp to the CDS, where he scarcely managed to spend two consecutive days
in a cubicle, and into the hectic and electrifying world of business planning within the
Directorate of Army Staff of the Army Headquarters.
Col Craig Aitchison, Director Army Staff, returning from his time at the United States Army
School of Advanced Military Studies in Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, replaced Col Rob Walker,
who took over as Commandant of the Canadian Army Staff College. The Directorate of
the Canadian Army Command and Staff College in Kingston.
96 PRO PATRIA 2013
PRO PATRIA 2013 97
Col Craig Aitchison
delivers a presentation
during the Pacific Armies
Management Seminar in
Auckland, New Zealand.
Army Staff was kept very busy this year with several major international engagements,
which included British Army Staff talks, and the Pacific Armies Management Seminar.
There were also a multitude of domestic challenges which covered a wide range of topics
such as the Light Infantry working group, which made progress towards assigning a well
defined role to the Light Infantry Battalions, and the development of a new Canadian Army
strategic document in the form of the third edition of Advancing with Purpose, due to be
released in 2014.
Other Royals within the Army Headquarters include: DLR (Maj Jon Herbert, Maj Kyle Keffer,
Maj Sean Dwyer, Capt Andre Fournier, Maj Bruce Gilchrist, Maj Leigh Mathieson), DLFD
(Capt Chris Blencowe, Maj Sebastien Niles), Army G1 (LCol Perry Poirier, MWO Bruce Ball),
Maj Michael Blanchette in the CAF Joint Counter Explosive Threat Task Force, and Capt
Ben Rogerson in the position of ADC Comd CA.
Clockwise from top left: A look at The RCR Gate
at HMCS Stadacona as it stands today.
The RCR Gate as it stood while the garrison was
made up by The RCR (early 1900s).
Wellington Barracks in 1907 with the Regiment in the foreground.
N.B. caption embedded in photo.
Wellington Barracks as it is today.
Members of The RCR continue to participate in the military life of Halifax much as they
have since they first arrived in 1898. Though no longer garrisoned within the confines of
Stadacona, formerly known as Wellington Barracks, much of our history still exists, including
The RCR Gate, Wellington Barracks Officers’ Mess, extensively renovated by the Royal
Canadian Navy (RCN) when they acquired the base in World War II. Wellington Barracks
was also significantly damaged during the famed Halifax Explosion of 1917, after which
it took several days to recover the Regimental and King’s Colours. Although the former
Officers’ Mess no longer exists as a mess our contribution to the life of the Royal Artillery
Park Officers’ Mess and the CFB Halifax Chiefs’ and Petty Officers’ Mess has seen Royal
Canadians continue our traditions despite being isolated from units of our Regiment in the
midst of the RCN.
all exercises within the Atlantic area,
including 5th Canadian Division (5 Cdn
Div) and Joint Task Force Atlantic led
events such as Exercise NORTHERN
SOJOURN, a 5 Cdn Div series of unit
and Brigade deployments to Goose
Bay, Labrador in Feb-Mar 2014. We
have also deployed members on
operations around the globe, such as
Operation ATTENTION to Afghanistan
and Operation PROTEUS with Task
Force
Jerusalem,
ensuring
the
exceptional level of professionalism
inherent in all members of The RCR is
present in all CAF activities. Finally, The RCR now fills key leadership positions within a
number of Primary Reserve Regiments such as the Princess Louise Fusiliers, The Royal
Newfoundland Regiment, and the West Nova Scotia Regiment. In total, The RCR continues
to mold and influence the mindset of the Halifax Area, and indeed, the entire Atlantic Area.
Today, Royal Canadians are heavily involved in the planning, conduct, and support of
As busy as the Atlantic Region Royals often are, they always take time to celebrate
Atlantic Region Royals
By Capt Mark Gaudry
98 PRO PATRIA 2013
PRO PATRIA 2013 99
This is the “Office” in Puerto Rico.
The Royals present at the Halifax Armoury for the annual Regimental Birthday Celebration.
important Regimental events. Most recently members of the Regiment in Halifax, both
serving and retired, gathered at the Halifax Armouries on 21 December 2013 in order to
toast the health of the Regiment on its 130 years of service to Her Majesty and this great
nation of Canada.
Members of The Royal Canadian Regiment currently serving in the Atlantic Region are as
follows: Maj Mark Anthony, Maj Brian Brooks, Capt Kirk Johnson, Capt Jason O’Rourke,
Capt Dave Ellis, Capt Dan MacKinnon, Capt Dave Johnston, Capt Dave DesBarres, Capt
Gary Boudreau, Capt Nick Fysh, Capt Andrew Goodall, Capt Dennis LeBlanc, Capt Jason
Clarke, Capt Mark Gaudry, Capt Anthony Felix, WO Shawn Dean, WO Cecil Elliot, WO
Jamie Walsh, WO Robert Lenton, WO George McKillop, WO Kenneth Nunn, WO Kenneth
Moxsom, Sgt David King, Sgt Stephen Peyton, Sgt Ronald Blanchard, Sgt Charles Jones,
Sgt Morgan Simmons, Sgt Peter Nyitrai-Hacz, Sgt Steven Murgatroyd, Sgt Raymond
Farmer, Sgt Calvin Jones, Sgt Neil Whelan, Sgt Scott Seeley, Sgt Terry Snook, Sgt Kevin
Whelan, Cpl Calvin Embree, Cpl Bradley Follett, and Cpl Steven Drake
Royal Canadians at the Canadian Army
Advanced Warfare Centre (CAAWC)
By Capt Mark Smith, Adjutant
Another exciting year at the Canadian Army Advanced Warfare Centre (CAAWC) which
saw Royals in various parts of the world including Ontario, Puerto Rico, California, the
Northwest Territories, Nunavut, Brazil, and Belgium.
2013 began with the Military Freefall Parachutist (MFP) and Military Freefall Jump Master
(MFJM) courses being conducted in Trenton, Ontario and Ponce, Puerto Rico with WO
Mike Dwyer as the Second-in-Command for both courses and Sgt Dan Coulter as the
Subject Matter Expert (SME) and instructor for both courses. WO Kevin White missed out
on the sun and skydiving and instead had to settle for static line round Jump Master (JM)
opportunities in Fort Benning, Georgia. January 25th 2013, also saw the sod-turning for
the unit’s new building at 8 Wing Trenton. After the completion of training in Puerto Rico
and Fort Benning, the Parachute Instructors then deployed to Perris Valley, California to
conduct the Military Freefall Parachute Instructor (MFPI) course.
Moving from sunny Puerto Rico and California, to Canada’s Arctic, the Arctic Operations
Advisor (AOA) course was also conducted in Trenton, ON, Yellowknife, NWT, and Resolute
100 PRO PATRIA 2013
Bay, NT from January to March 2013. Captain Chris Blencowe was the course officer and
WO Glen Whitten was the course Warrant Officer. WO Jim Topp was an instructor for a
second year. CAAWC also participated in Exercise TRILLIUM RESPONSE with Captains
Mark Smith and Cullen Downey parachuting into and conducting Patrol Pathfinder activities
in Moosonee, ON.
While these National Calendar activities were occurring, other Royals at CAAWC conducted
backcountry ski and avalanche training in British Columbia. The group was led by WO
Dan MacIntyre and saw him and Sgts Jeremy Blair and Devon Hatcher spend ten days
perfecting their backcountry skiing techniques. Following the skiing, the trio instructed
on a Helicopter Insertion Instruction (HII) course. As the summer posting season started
to appear, the unit began the Complex Terrain Instructor/Advanced Mountain Operations
(CTI/AMO) course with WO Pete Leadbeater as the course Warrant Officer.
The month of May saw Training Company split into Parachute Training Company (PTC)
and Advanced Mobility Company. Capt Smith remained as acting OC PTC and MWO
Doug Sheppard remained as CSM PTC. A June change of command parade saw LCol Paul
Lockhart hand over the position of Commanding Officer to LCol Francois Dufault from
the R22eR. As well, Maj Dan Jakubiec handed over his position as Deputy Commanding
Officer to Maj Kris Callaerts from the PPCLI. In his role as Adjutant, Capt Andrew McGregor
ensured all necessary documentation and briefings were conducted.
The busy summer training period saw the unit conduct MFP, MFJM, JM, and Basic Parachutist
(BPara) courses. WO Dwyer, Sgt Coulter and Sgt Richard Newman all played active roles
as course staff and instructors. The Patrol Pathfinder (PPF) course was conducted in both
Petawawa, ON and Halifax, NS. Capt Downey was the course officer and newly-posted in
Sgts Kris Evong and Paul Mitchell as instructors. The Canadian Armed Forces Parachute
Team, the SkyHawks, was represented by Cpl Stephen Collins who was the team’s Drop
Zone (DZ) Controller.
Following much needed summer block leave over the month of August, the unit deployed
to CFB Borden for Individual Battle Task Standards (IBTS) training and a Major Air Disaster
PRO PATRIA 2013 101
Members of the SkyHawks prepare for a
Some of the Royals serving at CANSOFCOM HQ.
landing at the 2013 Calgary Stampede.
L-R: Capt Ben Lacey, LCol Eric Pellicano, MWO
Rob Douglas, MGen Denis Thompson, CWO Dan
Brissette, Capt Tom France, Capt Mike Perkins.
Africa, Asia and South America.
Of these, some were short-notice,
rapid response, while others
continued to build existing Special
Operations Forces relationships
and support Government of
Canada initiatives.
CANSOFCOM Headquarters welcomed some Royals during APS 2013 including Major
Mike Archibald to J5 Plans, and Captains Ben Lacey and Mike Perkins to Directorate Force
Development. Other personnel from The RCR in the HQ include: Major Gerry Byrne, Major
Kevin Caldwell, Capt Tom France, MWO Rob Douglas, Maj Dave Price, Maj Dave Suffoletta
and LCol Eric Pellicano. The HQ also said farewell (but not goodbye) to Major Paolo Pavese
to JCSP and LCol Alex Haynes to Op CALUMET.
(MAJAID) exercise. These events tested the unit’s recall and short notice deployment
capability and were a testament to the secrecy, planning, and organizational abilities of the
unit Operations Cell, spearheaded by the Operations Officer, Capt Nathan Scholey.
The months of September and October saw the unit conduct BPara, JM and Parachute
Instructor (PI) courses and another HII course. MCpl Jeffrey Valentiate, recently posted in
from 3 RCR, was the Company Quartermaster for these courses. WO Dwyer deployed to
Belgium to participate in an international JM and parachuting concentration. The CT-11
Trial was conducted in October and early November, which saw members of the unit and
field force conduct user evaluations on a proposed new parachute system, the T-11. The
project’s lead was WO Mark Thibault. Sgt Newman deployed to Brazil in early November
in a JM and PI role in support of CRUZEX 13. This is an international exercise involving the
USA, Brazil, Canada and other allied nations.
Two major changes in the CANSOFCOM Command Team occurred in the summer of 2013
and winter of 2014. CWO Daniel Brissette was appointed Command Chief Warrant Officer
as he took over from CWO John Graham in July of 2013 at a ceremony at NDHQ. As well,
Major-General Denis Thompson completed his tour as the Commander and turned over
command to Brigadier-General Michael Rouleau in February 2014. Major-General Thompson
has assumed command of the Multinational Force and Observers in Egypt and Israel. He
was sent off with a ceremony at the Cartier Square Drill Hall supported by an honour guard.
December saw the year draw to a close, and all Royals put the finishing touches on courses,
conduct unit training and briefings, finally followed by much needed Christmas leave.
The Canadian Special Operations Forces
Command (CANSOFCOM) HQ
By Captain Ben Lacey
The Canadian Special Operations Forces Command (CANSOFCOM) maintains a high
operational tempo that becomes a way of life for the Royals in the Command. 2013 was
no different as CANSOFCOM conducted a number of operations across Canada, Europe,
102 PRO PATRIA 2013
CANSOFCOM Change of Command parade.
PRO PATRIA 2013 103
BGen O.H. Lavoie commemorates Pachino Day with The
Ceremonial Guard in Ottawa, 10 July 2013.
During a short reception
following the ceremony
many Royals from the
NCR and CANSOFCOM
were able to wish him well
with his new endeavours.
One of the highlights
of
2013
for
both
CANSOFCOM
as
an
institution and the HQ was
the Special Operations
Forces
Symposium,
jointly hosted with the
Joint Special Operations
University which is the
professional development
university
for
the
United States Special
Operations
Command.
This symposium focused on the Role of the Global SOF Network in a Resource Constrained
Environment and had attendance by representatives of USSOCOM, British SOF, Australian
SOF and a myriad of European and international SOF organizations. One of our own Royal
Canadians, Colonel Bernd Horn, presented a briefing on Private Military Corporations as
Members of the Global SOF Network: Worth Another Look? And Major-General Thompson
participated in a panel discussion with Lieutenant-General John Mulholland (USSOCOM),
Dr. Brian Maher (JSOU), and Rear Admiral Metz (DComd USSOCOM) on topics ranging
from the Global SOF Network to the value of developing, sharing and practising measures
of effectiveness of SOF across the SOF network.
The Royals at CANSOFCOM are vital and valued assets to the Command in both
operational and staff positions. Their contributions and the Regiment’s support continue
to enable CANSOFCOM’s success throughout 2013/2014 and into the future. Pro Patria!
Pachino Day 2013 with The Ceremonial Guard
Mounting the Guard. Two Royals - Maj B.M. Plaunt, the
CO, and CWO W.P. Fudge, the RSM - front and centre.
Summer 2013: The Royals who were serving with The Ceremonial Guard.
during one of the inspections, giving the ceremony a distinctly Royal feeling.
After the guard mount, The Ceremonial Guard hosted a traditional red wine and spaghetti
luncheon at Carleton University, where the unit operates from during the summer season.
The luncheon was attended by the 44 Royals working at the Ceremonial Guard for 2013,
Royals tasked as sentries at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and numerous guests from
The RCR Association, Ottawa & District Branch. The luncheon was enjoyed by all and the
history of the Regiment was honoured by both serving and retired Royals in the observation
of both the 70th Anniversary of the Landing in Sicily, and the Royal’s significant contribution
to this year’s Ceremonial Guard in Ottawa.
By Captain William Bowes, Public Duties Company 2IC, The Ceremonial Guard
On July 10th 2013, The Ceremonial Guard celebrated the 70th Anniversary of the Landing
at Sicily with its own Pachino Day events.
The daily guard mount was commanded by Ceremonial Guard CO, Major Mike Plaunt,
and was observed by a number of honoured guests, including both serving Royals and
members of The Royal Canadian Regiment Association, Ottawa & District Branch. Those in
attendance included MGen Ivan Fenton (Ret’d) and BGen Omer Lavoie.
The guard mount was executed with discipline and precision, with many members of both
the Old and New Guard being from the four battalions of The Royal Canadian Regiment.
The Band of the Ceremonial Guard played the Regimental quick march, St. Catherine’s,
104 PRO PATRIA 2013
Chief of Force Development (CFD)
By MWO Daryl Anderson
Four members of the Regiment were posted to Chief of Force Development (CFD) in APS
2013: LCol John Vass, Maj Sasha Paul, Maj Derek Dobson and MWO Darryl Anderson.
All are now analysts in Director General Capability and Structure Integration (DG CSI),
focussing on Army and CANSOF project and structure files. We primarily conduct rigorous
and in depth analysis of projects to ensure they are aligned with strategic guidance and
direction. This effort is to ultimately provide our Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) Senior
Leadership with accurate and timely information that they can make informed decisions on
PRO PATRIA 2013 105
CJOC Royal Canadians L to R: Capt Paul Roos, Maj Greg Miller, LCol Marty Lipcsey, Maj Carl Bennett, Maj Dave Johnston.
The four Royals at CFD. L-R: MWO Daryl Anderson, LCol John Vass, Major Sasha Paul, Major Derek Dobson.
future CAF capabilities and structures. While we are currently working in the “Centre”, our
efforts are in full support of the Canadian Army and CANSOFCOM.
as the Regimental Secretary). It was a busy first year at CJOC and The RCR members
posted to the Headquarters routinely punched above their weight in keeping with the high
standards of the Regiment. They continued to make a difference each day and helped
contribute to the success of CAF Operations.
Canadian Joint Operations Command (CJOC)
Royals at the Infantry School
By Capt Dan Brown, EA to CJOC Chief of Staff
By Capt Jon Friesen
2013 was a busy first year for the Canadian Joint Operations Command (CJOC) and
Royal Canadians were significant contributors to the success of the new Command. In
October 2012, the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) three operational Commands, Canadian
Expeditionary Force Command (CEFCOM), Canada Command (CANCOM) and Canadian
Operational Support Command (CANOSCOM) were amalgamated to form CJOC. This
new Command would provide the CAF with a single unified operational command that
anticipates, prepares for, and conducts operations - to defend Canada, to assist in the
defence of North America, and, as directed, to promote peace and security abroad. Thus,
2013 marked the first full year of CJOC’s existence. The majority of Royals posted to CJOC
HQ were posted to three areas in the HQ. Royals predominately work in the J3 Operations
Branch (Maj Carl Bennett, Major Simon Parker, Capt Paul Roos), the J5 Planning Branch
(LCol Marty Lipcsey, Maj Dave Johnston) and the Canadian Forces Integrated Command
Centre (CFICC) (Capt Yannick Yart, Capt Shawn Wardell, Capt Kent Bougton), which
provides a 24/7 command and control and situational awareness for the CAF. However,
there were other Royals scattered across CJOC (Maj Ryan Hartman, Capt Dan Brown) and
others who were posted out at APS (Maj Greg Miller). From Operation ATTENTION (the
CAF contribution to the training mission in Afghanistan) or Operation LENTUS (the CAF
response to the High River flooding in Alberta), CJOC Royals participated in all aspects
of executing and planning both domestic and expeditionary operations. The senior
Regimental officer serving at CJOC was LCol Marty Lipcsey who served as the CJOC
Deputy J5 (he also served half the year as the NCR Regimental Mentor before taking over
106 PRO PATRIA 2013
Change of Comd 2013. From left to right, Lieutenant-Colonel K.A. Gallinger, Colonel M.A. Nixon and
Lieutenant-Colonel C.I. Oberwarth during the Change of Command Parade, June 2013.
PRO PATRIA 2013 107
The Infantry School is proud
of the accomplishments of
the 162 Royal Canadians
who currently call the
School home. This past
year these Royals, in
concert with all Infantry
School members, have
been busy implementing
ASA 2013. Royals ensure that all students leave
changes
to
course
the school prepared for success.
curriculum and School
processes under the umbrella of CTC’s Individual Training Review Bound 2. Empowered by
a thorough interrogation of its programme, the School is well positioned to make course
corrections with a view to: reducing costs, tightening-up the tasking brick and enhancing
the relevance of what is being taught. All Royals within the School remain focused on
training soldiers and commanders how to survive, fight and win battles.
LCol Cayle Oberwarth took command of the Infantry School in the spring of 2013. Under
his leadership there has been a rapid transformation of keystone courses, to include the
development of the Rifle Section Commanders Course (RSCC), led by Capt Kieran Griffin.
The RSCC will become the anchor in the NCM DP 1-3 training continuum, providing a
vehicle for candidates to master section command skill sets.
Royal Canadian, Capt Bart Szarzynski, OIC of the Urban Operations Cell, has been
focused on developing the Urban Operations Instructor Course; course corrections will
aim to develop Senior NCOs and junior officers to have an advanced understanding of
the intricacies of fighting in an urban environment in a Cbt Tm context. Capt Szarzynski
attended the UK Urban Instructor Course held in Copehill Downs near the Salisbury Plains
to gain insight on how our allies conduct Urban Operation Training.
Royal Canadians WO Barry Eddy and Sgt Gordan Finnigan continue to work diligently to
improve the Inf Corps sniper programme. As a result, FY 14/15 will see the SDCC and Adv
Sniper courses run simultaneously and integrated with the CTCC and IDCCC programmes.
In addition, a Sniper Officer Employment module will be offered, aiming to produce Sniper
Pl Comds versed in all facets of sniper employment.
Dp1.2 2013. Royals at the school play an important
role in training students in mechanized warfare.
108 PRO PATRIA 2013
From top: Capt Griffin takes a break on the Gros Morne Trail.
Capt Cyr receiving his CDS Commendation.
Col Nixon presents the CTC Commander’s Commendation to Cpl
Jones for his outstanding performance while at the school.
Numerous pieces of equipment have been
implemented into the army this past year and at the
forefront is the LAV 6.0. Royal Canadian MCpl John
MacDonald from the LAV 6.0 Cell was converted to
the LAV 6.0 Turret Operator and Driver. He was one
of the first Canadian Army soldiers to be converted
to the platform.
WO Byron Sheppard and Sgt Marc Arsenault
instructed on the Advanced Recce Patrolman course
in the fall of 2013 and are preparing to conduct a
Summer ARP in 2014. As part of the greater team,
the two have worked to ensure skill sets taught on
the ARP course remain relevant; greater focus is
being placed on subjects such as surveillance and
CBRN reconnaissance.
Royals Capt Kieran Griffin and MCpl Jesse Adams
participated in the annual Infantry School Ex LONG
STRIDE in Gros Morne National Park, NL, in August
2013. The eight-day, 60 km wilderness hike took
their teams through the Long Range Traverse trail,
covering some of the most spectacular terrain found
in Canadian National Parks.
Throughout the year, several Royals at the School
were singled out for their performance. Capt
Fitzpatrick was awarded the CDS Commendation
for performing CPR to a civilian while deployed to
Italy in support of Op MOBILE in 2011. Capt Cyr was
awarded the CDS Commendation for his work as an ANA mentor during Op ATTENTION
2012. Capt Jeremy Hiltz and Cpl Derek Jones were both recognized by the Commander of
the Combat Training Centre for their outstanding service, receiving the Commander CTC
Commendation.
Royals at the Inf Sch remain committed to ensuring that Inf soldiers and officers receive
valuable, relevant, and professional training. Their efforts and hard work are felt across the
army. The Infantry School belongs to the Corps; it is our School and as a Regiment, we
must continue to invest in it, ensuring it remains furnished with our best officers and NCOs.
In so doing, we ensure that the quality of the School’s output is of the highest standard.
PRO PATRIA 2013 109
RESERVE SUPPORT STAFF (RSS) IN THE NCR
By Captain Kayne Carr, Adjutant GGFG
The RCR continued to support the Reserve Force throughout the National Capital Region
(NCR) in 2013. A few members of The RCR posted RSS to 33 Canadian Brigade Group
(CBG) HQ in Ottawa participated in two formative division level exercises organized by 4
Cdn Div in 2013.
Exercise TRILLIUM RESPONSE 13 was a winter warfare Field Training Exercise (FTX) from
16-24 Feb 2013 that included multiple formations in a domestic war fighting scenario in
the northern regions of Ontario. The exercise aimed to develop interoperability between
Regular and Reserve Forces, the Canadian Rangers, and a variety of civilian partner
agencies. The successful planning of this exercise was a result of Capt Joe Baker’s (33
CBG G5) hard work and coordination with the 31 and 33 Territorial Battle Groups (TBGs).
The exercise also confirmed the ability of multiple formations to exercise Command and
Control (C2) in remote and harsh locations while ensuring their soldiers were able to
move, fight, and communicate. Both commissioned and non-commissioned members of
The RCR deployed with the 33 CBG HQ to Otter Rapids, a remote location along the
Ontario Northland Railway. Leading 31 TBG during this exercise was The Princess of Wales
Own Regiment (PWOR); although he was the Adjutant of the unit, Capt Stephen Keeble
was the Operations Officer for the exercise, coordinating and managing the operation
for 31 TBG. As an administrative headquarters, this was a significant undertaking both in
the planning and execution. The success of this exercise could not have been achieved
without the contribution of Royals well versed in winter warfare, and the functioning of
a unit and formation HQ. A notable contribution from 33 CBG HQ came from Sgt J.R.
Miltimore of The RCR, who deployed as the 33 CBG HQ Company Quartermaster (CQ). His
tireless efforts were vital to the survival of 33 CBG HQ personnel in the harsh and austere
conditions prevalent.
Ex STALWART GUARDIAN 13 was a FTX held in Meaford, ON from 18-25 Aug 2013 aimed
at confirming 31 and 33 TBGs to Level 4 Battle Task Standards (BTS) in a domestic Full
Spectrum Operations (FSO) scenario. Similar to Ex TRILLIUM RESPONSE 13, members of
The RCR were again instrumental in the planning and deployment of the 33 CBG HQ.
Additionally, a few individuals organized and ran sub-unit training events during the exercise
to prepare TBG troops for domestic operations. Notable contributions from other Royals
serving in 33 CBG HQ during this exercise came from WO D.B. Wilkinson, who organized
and ran a complex sub-unit Cordon and Search training event; and Sgt R.C. Adams, who
deployed as the 33 CBG HQ CQ, establishing an excellent camp for the HQ personnel.
These two exercises and The RCR members mentioned are just two small examples of the
contributions Royal Canadians made to the Reserve Force in 2013 and are by no means
inclusive of all their hard work and efforts.
Field Marshal, His Royal Highness The Prince Philip,
Duke of Edinburgh, KG, KT, GBE, CD. Colonel-in-Chief of
The Royal Canadian Regiment since 08 December 1953.
E
110 PRO PATRIA 2013
PRO PATRIA 2013 111
HRH The Prince Philip,
Duke of Edinburgh:
Sixty Years as Colonel-in-Chief of
By Capt R.A. Appleton, Regimental Adjutant
08 December 2013 was the occasion for a highly significant
Regimental milestone. That day was the 60th anniversary
of HRH Prince Philip’s becoming the Colonel-in-Chief of
The Royal Canadian Regiment. It was on 08 December
1953 that Prince Philip was named Colonel-in-Chief,
succeeding HRH Prince Arthur, the Duke of Connaught.
This 60th anniversary was previously marked earlier this
year by the presentation to Prince Philip of a heroic bust
of our Colonel-in-Chief. The bust was sculpted by the
distinguished Canadian artist Christian Corbet and is now
housed at the Regimental Museum at Wolseley Barracks
by consent of HRH Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh.
It is both traditional and the norm for a royal personage
to hold the appointment of Colonel-in-Chief. However,
it is at the discretion of the regiment, corps or branch as
to who is approached to be their Colonel-in-Chief. There
are noteworthy and rare instances of individuals who are
not members of the Royal Family, but who nevertheless
serve in this appointment. However, on such occasions the
express approval of the Monarch has first been sought and
gained. Though there are exceptions to the rule of royal
personages serving as the Colonel-in-Chief, this in no way
alters the rationale for the appointment, which is to serve
as the direct, personal link between a regiment and the
reigning Sovereign. In all instances, the appointment of
Colonels-in-Chief is made by the Monarch.
Field Marshal His Royal Highness The Prince Philip, Duke
The bust of HRH Prince Philip on display at the Regimental Museum.
HRH Prince Philip, Colonel-in-Chief.
112 PRO PATRIA 2013
of Edinburgh, KG, KT, OM, OIM, GCRI, GBE, ID, AC,
ONZ, QSO, GCL, CC, CMM, CD, PC, is the Colonel-inChief of The Royal Canadian Regiment. HRH Prince Philip
celebrated his landmark 90th birthday on 10 June 2011.
He was born on the island of Corfu, in Greece, into the
Greek and Danish royal families on 10 June 1921. Prince
Philip married Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II (then
Princess Elizabeth) on 20 November 1947 and is both
the oldest spouse of a monarch and the longest serving
consort in the history of the British monarchy. HRH Prince
Philip has a long and storied connection with The Royal
Canadian Regiment. He was appointed Colonel-in-Chief
of the Regiment on 08 December 1953. Prince Philip is
only the second ever Colonel-in-Chief of The RCR. He
succeeded Field Marshal HRH Prince Arthur, Duke of
Connaught and Strathearn. HRH Prince Arthur was the
third son of HM Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. His
tenure as Colonel-in-Chief was from 04 April 1929 – 16
January 1942.
It would be nearly 12 years, and two wars, before another
member of the Royal Family would be appointed the
Colonel-in-Chief of The Royal Canadian Regiment. This
part of the story properly begins with the young Princess
Elizabeth, our future Queen and the daughter of King
George VI.
Since her father had become King on 10 December 1936,
Princess Elizabeth had been first in line to the throne and
was the Heiress Presumptive.
In July 1939, during a tour by the Royal Family of the
Royal Naval College at Dartmouth, the 13 year old
Elizabeth met a dashing naval cadet who was five years
her elder. This was the 18 year old Prince Philip of Greece
Prince Philip in his youth.
and Denmark. His background was decidedly fascinating,
HRH The Duke of Connaught, Colonelif not romantic and exotic. Philip had been born on the
in-Chief of The RCR, 1929-1942.
island of Corfu, into the Greek Royal Family, on 10 June
1921. He was the only son of Prince Andrew of Greece
and Denmark and Princess Alice of Battenberg. Baptized
in the Greek Orthodox Church, he had no Greek blood and grew up speaking not a word
of Greek. A member of the House of Schleswig-Holstein-Sonderburg-Glucksburg, Philip’s
background was actually Danish-German.
In 1922 the Greek Royal Family was overthrown in the aftermath of a disastrous war with
Turkey. Prince Andrew (the nephew of King Constantine I of Greece) was arrested and
eventually banished from Greece by a revolutionary court. The family settled at Paris,
France where Philip spent the next six years. In 1928 Prince Andrew left his family to live in
PRO PATRIA 2013 113
Monte Carlo. The mother, Princess Alice, began to suffer from a prolonged illness. Philip’s
maternal English relatives intervened. Prince Philip, age nine, was brought to England to
live first with his maternal grandmother, Princess Victoria of Hesse (the widow of Prince
Louis of Battenberg) at Kensington Palace. When she died, her son George Mountbatten,
the Marquess of Milford Haven, assumed responsibility for the boy. In 1938, when George
in turn died, his brother, Lord Louis Mountbatten (later Viscount Mountbatten of Burma;
in March 1947 he became the last Viceroy of India), became the legal guardian of Philip.
From 1929 Prince Philip was schooled in England. He would eventually receive a first-rate
education in Germany (1933-35) and Scotland, at Gordonstoun, (1935-39). Philip was fluent
in English, French, and German. Strongly influenced by his uncle, “Dickie” Mountbatten,
a navy man himself, Prince Philip decided on a career in the Royal Navy. When he left
Gordonstoun, Philip attended the Dartmouth Royal Naval College from 1939-40. It was
at Dartmouth that Philip first met his second cousin, the Heiress Presumptive, Princess
Elizabeth. It is clear that the young princess fell deeply in love with Philip. The two kept up
a correspondence throughout the Second World War, while Philip was abroad at sea, on
active service.
Philip graduated from the Royal Naval College at the top of his class. A promising naval
career beckoned. In January 1940 he was commissioned as a midshipman and initially
posted to the Indian Ocean aboard the battleship HMS Ramillies. After serving aboard
different vessels and on the island of Ceylon, Prince Philip was sent to the Mediterranean
as war raged with Germany and Italy. While serving aboard the HMS Valiant, he saw action
at the Battle of Cape Matapan (27-29 March 1941) against the Italian fleet. The battle was
a resounding British victory and Philip was Mentioned in Despatches. He was in action
again during the Battle of Crete (20 May – 01 June 1941). This prolonged battle, primarily
against the German Luftwaffe, had a less happy outcome. The Royal Navy suffered losses
of 1,828 dead and 183 wounded, with nine ships sunk and a further 18 damaged. The
latter included the Valiant which came under attack from German Junker JU-87 and JU-88
bombers. During his tour in the Mediterranean, Philip was also awarded the Greek War
Cross of Valour.
Prince Philip next attended several qualifying courses at Portsmouth, during which once
again he consistently attained the highest marks. Promoted to sub-lieutenant, in June
1942 he was posted to the HMS Wallace, a V and W Class anti-aircraft escort destroyer,
protecting convoys in the North Sea. Philip was promoted to lieutenant on 16 July 1942.
Then in October, at the age of 21, he was appointed First Lieutenant of the Wallace, making
him one of the youngest first lieutenants in the British navy. In July 1943, still aboard HMS
Wallace, Prince Philip was in the Mediterranean again. Supporting the invasion of Sicily
(Operation Husky, 10 July 1943), the destroyer came under close attack at night by enemy
bombers. Philip once again distinguished himself by devising an ingenious plan involving
the use of a raft as a decoy that allowed the Wallace to escape unscathed.
Meanwhile, the young Princess Elizabeth was starting to come into her own. In early
1942, at the age of 15, she became the Colonel-in-Chief of the Grenadier Guards. During
1943 Elizabeth began to undertake public duties assigned to her by her father, the King.
Eventually she was to don a military uniform as a driver and mechanic in the Women’s
Auxiliary Territorial Service (WATS). While in the Service, Princess Elizabeth was appointed
114 PRO PATRIA 2013
an Honorary Subaltern and then promoted to Honorary Junior Commander. Her sense of
duty and responsibility was already noteworthy. All the while her relationship with Philip,
maintained through letters, continued to blossom. During Christmas 1943, Prince Philip
was invited to spend the holiday at Windsor Castle.
In 1944 Prince Philip was transferred to the 27th Destroyer Flotilla, part of the British
Pacific Fleet. He was appointed second-in-command of the destroyer HMS Whelp. The
following year, in September 1945, Philip was present aboard the Whelp in Tokyo Bay,
when representatives of the Japanese government signed the articles of surrender aboard
the battleship USS Missouri. He sailed back to England, still aboard HMS Whelp, in January
1946. Philip was now appointed to HMS Royal Arthur, the Petty Officers School in Corsham,
Wiltshire, as an instructor. Buckingham Palace was only an hour’s drive away. It was during
September of 1946 that this British naval officer finally approached King George VI, asking
permission to marry his daughter, Princess Elizabeth.
Consent was given, but there were several conditions which Philip had to meet. There
could be no formal engagement between Prince Philip and Princess Elizabeth before her
21st birthday on 21 April 1947. By 18 March 1947 Philip had converted to Anglicanism
from Greek Orthodoxy, renounced allegiance to the Greek crown, become a naturalized
British subject, adopted the family name of Mountbatten (from his uncle) and repudiated
his Greek and Danish hereditary royal titles. With all obstacles to the marriage now
removed, the engagement was finally announced on 10 July 1947. Immediately preceding
the wedding, the King granted Philip the style of His Royal Highness and named him the
Duke of Edinburgh (he was not made a royal prince until 1957). With all the pomp and
circumstance that is associated with a royal wedding, Philip and Elizabeth were married
at Westminster Abbey on 20 November 1947. A time of food shortages, rationing and
austerity, the royal wedding was described at the time as, “a precious celebration of
romance when the nation was suffering.”
The Royal Couple now took up residence at Clarence House. Their first child, a son and
an heir, Charles (the future Prince of Wales, as of 1969), was born on 14 November 1948.
Philip, still very much the ambitious and involved naval officer with a fast rising career, was
quick to return to duty. Following a stint at the Admiralty, he attended the staff course at
the Naval Staff College, Greenwich. In 1949, Philip was posted to the Mediterranean Fleet
at Malta as the First Lieutenant aboard HMS Chequers, lead destroyer of the 1st Destroyer
Flotilla. Promoted to the rank of lieutenant-commander in July 1950, he became captain of
the frigate HMS Magpie. On 15 August 1950, a daughter, Anne (the future Princess Royal)
was born to the Royal Couple.
Philip loved the navy and enjoyed his career as a naval officer immensely. It is clear that
based on merit and drive he would certainly have been raised to high command in the
Royal Navy. However, it was also clearly understood that his responsibilities and duties as
husband of the future queen would inevitably bring his active career as a naval officer to a
close. However, this came much sooner than expected. Though promoted to the rank of
Commander in 1952, his career was effectively concluded by July 1951 (although Prince
Philip would nevertheless achieve his RAF flight wings in 1953 and his helicopter wings in
1956). Suffering from lung cancer, the health of King George VI had grown steadily worse.
Ironically, King George had taken up smoking as a young man in hopes that it would
PRO PATRIA 2013 115
help him cope with a speech impediment.
As his health failed, more and more of the
King’s public duties devolved upon Princess
Elizabeth and Prince Philip.
In October 1951, Elizabeth and Philip
completed a coast to coast tour of Canada.
During this Royal Visit soldiers of The Royal
Canadian Regiment were able to see their
HM Queen Elizabeth with Prince Philip at her
future Queen and Colonel-in-Chief close up.
side on the day of her Coronation.
Created at Fort Lewis, Washington on 10
January 1951 for future service in Korea, 3rd Battalion The Royal Canadian Regiment (3
RCR) was stationed at Petawawa, Ontario as of September 1951. Another battalion of The
RCR, 2 RCR, had been fighting in Korea since May 1951. The 3rd Battalion was now tasked
to proceed to Ottawa on 10 October 1951 and line the streets as HRH Princess Elizabeth
and HRH the Duke of Edinburgh visited the city. This would be the first of many encounters
between the Royal Couple and The Royal Canadian Regiment.
At the end of January 1952, Princess Elizabeth and Philip embarked on a five month tour of
the Commonwealth that was to include Australia and New Zealand. Their first stop was at
Kenya, in East Africa. It was here that the fateful news reached the couple that King George
VI had died in his sleep on 06 February 1952. He was only 56 years of age. With the death
of the King, Elizabeth automatically became Queen at the age of 25. The Royal Couple
cancelled the tour and returned immediately to England. News of the death of George VI
reached 2 RCR in Korea on 07 February. Though still in the line, all officers of the Battalion
were brought together at unit headquarters two days later in order to swear allegiance
to Queen Elizabeth II. A message to this effect was then forwarded to the Queen. On 15
February, the 1st Battalion in Petawawa participated in a memorial service for King George
VI. The King’s Colour was draped in mourning.
Returning home to England, Elizabeth was met by Prime Minister Winston Churchill. She was
to proclaim herself formally as “Queen and Head of the Commonwealth and Defender of
the Faith.” King George VI was buried on 15 February. Nevertheless, the actual Coronation,
in terms of tradition and practicality, could not take place for several months at least. A
period of official mourning was required and the amount of planning and preparation for
the Coronation was extraordinary. The coronation of a British monarch has changed little
in over a thousand years, the tradition and ritual dating back to the Norman Conquest
1 RCR on parade 15 Feb 1952,
marking the death of King George VI.
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The Royal Canadian Regiment had been without a Colonel-in-Chief since
Field Marshal HRH Prince Arthur, the Duke of Connaught (the Regiment’s
first ever Colonel-in-Chief) had died on 16 January 1942. Following
the Second World War Princess Elizabeth had been approached with
the request that she consider filling this appointment. Unfortunately,
given Elizabeth’s many other commitments, this was just not possible.
However, once Elizabeth ascended the throne, it became clear that
Prince Philip would be prepared to accept this honour. Thus on 08
December 1953, Field Marshal HRH, the Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh,
officially became Colonel-in Chief of The Royal Canadian Regiment.
of 1066, and even predating that in some respects.
The ceremony takes place at Westminster Abbey
and is officiated by the Archbishop of Canterbury.
The date eventually determined on for the
Coronation to take place was 02 June 1953, some
16 months after Elizabeth’s accession to the throne.
Since the creation of The Royal Canadian Regiment,
The RCR had participated in every royal coronation.
The Coronation of Queen Elizabeth would be no
exception. On this occasion, as in 1937 for the coronation of George VI, the Regiment’s
contingent would be part of a much larger official Canadian Coronation Contingent. This
contingent would consist of some 900 personnel. These personnel were to be drawn from
the Royal Canadian Navy, the Canadian Army, the Royal Canadian Air Force, and the Royal
Canadian Mounted Police.
From 1951 and over the next 60 years, Queen Elizabeth, with Prince Philip at her side,
would officially visit Canada on 22 separate occasions, spending some 222 days in the
country. Official interactions over the years between The RCR and its Colonel-in-Chief
PRO PATRIA 2013 117
York, during the Battalion’s two year tour
in Germany. Then Prince Philip was hosted
at the Home Station for a major event on
02-03 July 1959. Arriving at Crumlin Airport
in London, the Colonel-in-Chief was met
by a Guard of Honour made up of soldiers
from all three battalions, including the 3rd
Battalion The Royal Canadian Regiment
(London and Oxford Fusiliers); and the
Regimental Depot.
The historic 2 RCR Winning Team at Buckingham Palace..
Below: Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip on a State Visit to Canada.
were many and varied. On 10 August 1954 Prince Philip inspected a 130 man Guard of
Honour, from 1 RCR and commanded by Captain W. Snell, at the northern RCAF station
at Fort Churchill. The 1 RCR Guard carried the Queen’s Colour on this occasion. The CO
of 1 RCR, Lieutenant-Colonel T.R. McCoy, presented the Prince with a silver cigarette box.
On 17 October 1955, the Colonel-in-Chief arrived by helicopter at Fort York, Soest, West
Germany, to present 2 RCR with a stand of Colours (its first), before the Battalion returned
to Canada the next month.
In 1956, HRH Prince Philip instituted a competition and award, the Duke of Edinburgh
Trophy, which was to loom large in the imagination and future efforts of the Regiment.
The competition was an annual event which would involve all regiments and corps in
which Prince Philip held an Honourary appointment. Initially this involved some 21 British,
Canadian, Australian, New Zealand and Gurkha units. Each team was comprised of 12
personnel: one captain, two lieutenants, three sergeants, three corporals, and three
privates. The competition required both marksmanship and physical fitness. From 19621964, 2nd Battalion The Royal Canadian Regiment won the Duke of Edinburgh Trophy for
an unprecedented three years in a row. On 11 March 1964, the winning team from 2 RCR
was presented with the trophy by Prince Philip himself at Buckingham Palace.
On 11 June 1957, Prince Philip insisted on spending an informal day with 1 RCR at Fort
At Wolseley Barracks, Prince Philip unveiled
the new Regimental War Memorial (also
known as the Old Comrades Memorial).
Following lunch in the Officers Mess, the
Trooping of the Colours took place. This
LCol Baile watches as Cpl Gus Michalik receives the Bn Hockey
was the first occasion on which all three
Trophy from Prince Philip, Fort York, 30 Nov 1967.
battalions were together on parade. The
Colours of the 1st and 3rd Battalions were marched off parade and then replaced with
new Colours. Present on parade were the Colonel-in-Chief; the Colonel of the Regiment –
General Charles Foulkes; the Honourary Lieutenant-Colonel of 3 RCR – Lieutenant-Colonel
D.B. Weldon; and all four Commanding Officers: Lieutenant-Colonel F. Klenavic (1 RCR),
Lieutenant-Colonel D.E. Holmes (2 RCR), Lieutenant-Colonel S.G. Heaman (3 RCR); and
Major W.J. Jewell (Regimental Depot). Each Battalion provided four Guards for a total
of twelve. The old Colours of 1 RCR were subsequently laid up at Wolseley Barracks in
St. Mark’s Chapel; those of 3 RCR in St. Paul’s Cathedral at London, Ontario. On 03 July,
the soldiers of The RCR lined the route at the University of Western Ontario when Queen
Elizabeth, accompanied by Prince Philip, officially visited London.
HRH Prince Philip returned to London for a triple Trooping of the Colours on 22 May 1962.
He was received at Crumlin Airport by an Honour Guard composed of soldiers from 3 RCR
and the Regimental Depot. Prince Philip was then driven to Wolseley Barracks where he
laid a wreath at the Regimental Memorial and then witnessed the Trooping of the Colours,
involving all three battalions of the Regiment.
On 26 May 1965 Queen Elizabeth visited the 4th Canadian Infantry Brigade at Fort York
in Soest, West Germany. Soldiers from 1 RCR, then stationed in Germany, were included
in the joint army/air force Canadian Guard of Honour. The
Prince Philip inspects 2 RCR Guard
Battalion then took part in a Brigade mounted roll past.
of Honour commanded by Capt AGS
On 16 July Prince Philip returned to Fort York to review a
Hunter, Fort York, Dec 1968.
Trooping of the Colour conducted by 1 RCR. The recently
appointed Colonel of the Regiment, Major-General Daniel
Charles Spry, was also present as the Duke of Edinburgh
took the salute. That evening all three Messes of the
Battalion entertained in style in marquee tents set up for
the occasion.
Throughout the 1960s, HRH Prince Philip often took
118 PRO PATRIA 2013
PRO PATRIA 2013 119
Prince Philip with 3 RCR on
Parliament Hill, 02 Aug 1973.
Top right: Prince Philip bestows CD
on Cpl S.A.W. Willis of 2 RCR.
Bottom: The Queen and Prince
Philip inspecting Guard of Honour
from The RCR, Ottawa, 1973.
Prince Philip in the Wolseley Barracks Officer Mess with Col Tom Lawson, Colonel of the Regiment, and Regimental officers.
Guards had been reduced to nil
strength.
advantage of the presence of Royals in Germany to visit his Regiment. These visits were on
occasion slightly more social than ceremonial. On 30 November 1967 the Prince, arriving
by helicopter at Fort York, Soest, spent an enjoyable day visiting 2nd Battalion The Royal
Canadian Regiment. After reviewing a 100 man Guard of Honour and enjoying lunch in the
Officers Mess, he was able to watch a Battalion Sports Day that included a game of push
ball and then an ice hockey match. Prince Philip’s afternoon was concluded with a visit to
the Sergeants Mess.
The Colonel-in-Chief paid another flying visit to 2nd Battalion in Germany the following
year in December 1968. He was greeted at Fort York by a 21-gun salute and a 100 man
Guard of Honour. Following his inspection of the guard, Prince Philip presented Canadian
Forces Decorations to soldiers of 2 RCR. There followed a more relaxed social round as
the Prince met members of the Battalion in turn at the Beaver Club, the Corporals Mess
and the Sergeants Mess. In the evening he attended a Dining-In at the Officers Mess. The
following day, a Sunday, HRH Prince Philip attended a Church Parade at St. Mark’s Chapel,
during which he read the Lesson.
Over the subsequent years Prince Philip continued to maintain close ties with The Royal
Canadian Regiment. He was on Parliament Hill in Ottawa on 02 August 1973 to present
3rd Battalion The Royal Canadian Regiment with its first ever stand of Colours; an event
of tremendous Regimental importance. The 3rd Battalion had been disbanded on 21 July
1954, shortly after its return from Korea, to become the 2nd Battalion Canadian Guards;
3 RCR was only re-constituted as a regular battalion on 06 July 1970, when the Canadian
120 PRO PATRIA 2013
During the Regiment’s Centennial
celebrations and reunion at
Wolseley Barracks, London, Ontario
in June/July 1983, HRH Prince
Philip was very much in attendance
throughout. From 30 June – 03 July,
the Colonel-in-Chief participated
in Centennial events on each day.
The commemorations included an
historic Trooping of the Colours by
all four battalions of the Regiment
that took place on 01 July 1983 at
the University of Western Ontario.
HRH Prince Philip took the salute on
this occasion. He had both opened
this landmark Centennial on
Thursday 30 June and concluded
it on Sunday 03 July following an
open air Church Service.
Her Majesty The Queen and HRH Prince Philip.
From 23 June – 02 July 1997, Her Majesty The Queen and HRH Prince Philip were
conducting a State Visit to Canada. Taking time from a very taxing schedule the Prince
travelled to CFB Petawawa on the morning of 01 July to visit with his Canadian Regiment.
On this memorable occasion he presented 3rd Battalion The Royal Canadian Regiment
PRO PATRIA 2013 121
The RCR Association
2013 was a busy and very active year for our branches
and as well for us at National HQ. The inspirational
leadership displayed at the branch level led to several
diverse approaches to getting the separate elements
of the clan together and with rare exceptions, these
were very successful. Most of our branches organized
gatherings with very impressive results. However, I’ll let
them tell their stories in the articles that follow.
with a new Queen’s Colour. Prince Philip additionally
presided over the Change of Appointment of the
Colonel of the Regiment between the outgoing
Colonel Richard M. Dillon and Lieutenant-General
J.E. Vance. In tribute to his remarkable tenure as
Colonel-in-Chief, HRH Prince Philip received the
third bar to his CD. Soldiers and Colour Parties from
all four battalions of the Regiment were on parade.
The Prince took time to attend an all ranks social
function following the parade.
Top left: Royal Canadians at Buckingham Palace.
In 2000 there was an event of great significance
Top right: HRH Prince Philip during
and rich symbolism, which splendidly represented
the 3 RCR Colours Parade at Queen’s
the long connection between The Royal Canadian
Park, Toronto, 27 April 2013.
Regiment and the monarchy. In September of
that year, 2 RCR mounted the Queen’s Guard at
Bottom: HRH Prince Philip at Victoria
Buckingham Palace and undoubtedly the ColonelBarracks, Petawawa, 01 Jul 1997.
in-Chief was instrumental in making this happen. The
Detachment Commander was Major John S. Fife.
The 2 RCR detachment also provided the guard for the Queen Mother at St. James Palace
and for the Crown Jewels at HM Tower of London. This occasion (known as Operation
PARAPET) was meant to coincide with the centennial of the Regiment’s involvement in the
South African War.
Our Colonel-in-Chief remains a pillar of the Royal Family and an enduring symbol of
steadfast dedication and service. When Prince Philip attained the age of 90 years on 10
June 2011, Queen Elizabeth appointed her husband to be, “Lord High Admiral of the
Navy,” a title she herself had borne since 1964. This was especially fitting as Prince Philip
had had a very distinguished career in the Royal Navy before, during and after the Second
World War. In Canada, the Prince was appointed to the honorary ranks of Admiral and
General, the first time such honours had ever been bestowed. Members of The Royal
Canadian Regiment have always enjoyed a close connection with HRH Prince Philip and
all ranks of the Regiment heartily applaud and congratulate the Duke of Edinburgh on his
remarkable 60 tenure as Colonel–in-Chief.
122 PRO PATRIA 2013
In April, 3rd Battalion played host to His Royal
Highness, The Duke of Edinburgh, as he presented a
new Regimental Colour to the unit. It was a significant
event not only for the Battalion, but for the Regiment as
a whole as we seldom, as a family, have an opportunity
to socialize with our Patriarch. The Association was well
represented and His Royal Highness made a point of
talking to as many of our members as time permitted. A
hardy thanks to 3rd Battalion in going out of their way
to cater to the Association’s participation.
LCol RW McBride, OMM, CD
(Ret’d), Chairman, The Board of
Directors, The RCR Association
Shortly thereafter 3rd Battalion hosted members of the
Association to its annual Hill 187 Competition, commemorating that particular Korean War
battle. Branch members from Ottawa, Petawawa, Belleville and London were in attendance.
HRH Prince Philip meets with Capt Sherry Atkinson (Ret’d), Patron of
the Home Station, London & District Branch and many other members
of the Association, 27 April 2013, Royal York Hotel, Toronto.
PRO PATRIA 2013 123
Two proud Royals and Association
in St. John’s, Newfoundland,
The CWO Bobby Girouard Alberta
Branch, The RCR Association
02-04 August 2013.
By Kerry John Patrick Conlin
members who attended the 130th
Anniversary regimental Reunion
Association members commemorate Hill 187 Day with 3 RCR, at Petawawa,
15 May 2013. L-R: Lt Ed Mastronardi, MC (Ret’d), LCol Bob McBride (Ret’d),
Lt John Woods (Ret’d), Maj Chris Kris Reeves - DCO 3 RCR.
While the weather made it a bit of an added challenge for many of the competitors, the
Association members were very pleased to have another opportunity to rub shoulders with
family youngsters.
Another milestone passed in August with the successful conduct of the “every five year”
Regimental Reunion in St John’s, Newfoundland. Bruce King, the local Branch President
in St John’s, and his team put together a most memorable affair. Of the 250 plus that
attended I have yet to hear anything but good comments. 2nd Battalion support for the
event made it even more memorable, especially for those that had an opportunity to drive
through downtown St John’s in a LAV III armoured personnel carrier, flying the Regimental
Banner. Such an affair wouldn’t have been complete without the Regimental Pipes and
Drums. As always, they did us proud.
While the dust has hardly settled on the 2013 Reunion, we’re already contemplating the
next reunion in 2018. Exactly where and when in 2018 has yet to be decided, but given the
particular significance of the year we want to make sure that as many Royal Canadians as
possible can attend. The subject remains a topic of discussion at each monthly National
Board meeting and of course we remain open to suggestions. Regardless of exactly when
and where, I hope to see you all there.
1000 ISLANDS AREA BRANCH,
THE RCR ASSOCIATION
We are glad to report that the Branch is still active and we continue to have good
comradeship and lots of laughter at our meetings. As we are down to 12 active members,
we now meet roughly every second month on the third Sunday at the Brockville Armoury.
These members are: Ray Campbell; Len Delaney; Eric Devlin; Earl Donaldson; Ray Gilroy;
Bob Hersey; Reg Irvine; Reg Kirkland; Reg McIlvenna; Jim Pevere; Robert Nuttall; and Brian
Hanly.
Our events are few as our members grow older and drink less these days! We know that
Regimental Headquarters is trying to attract new members and we applaud their efforts.
The changes in society make this a challenging task. Our Patron, Robert Nuttall, now
resides in Kingston and we are happy to report that he is of sound mind and full of good
verse.
124 PRO PATRIA 2013
The CWO Bobby Girouard Branch in Alberta was
very active during 2013. Our first gathering took
place on the 5th of January 2013 at the Kingsway
Legion here in Edmonton. Branch 175 has become
our focal location for many of our meetings.
CWO Bobby Girouard Branch of The RCR
Association held its Annual General Meeting for
2013 in February. Among those in attendance at
the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 175, Edmonton,
Alberta were Eric Arlette, Alex Ewan, Steven Pierce,
Official emblem of the CWO Bobby Girouard
Leo Boyd, Robert Leduke, Michel Girouard, Kevin
Alberta Branch of The RCR Association.
O’Neil, John Pickett, Adrian Lutz, Alan Donnan,
Jacqueline Girouard Lewis, Robert G Dale and Kerry
John Patrick Conlin. Leo Boyd agreed at this time become our new Treasurer.
On July 27th, 2013 we enjoyed a great visit with David Kip Hannigan who was visiting his
family and catching up with members of the CWO Bobby Girouard Branch. Bob Crites,
Patrick Conlin, John Pickett. Leo Boyd, Eric Arlette, Alex Ewan, Michel Girouard, Kip’s son
and brother were in attendance.
In July, Patrick Conlin, John Pickett and Alex Ewan attended a parade at the Alberta
Provincial Legislature in Edmonton. The Parade honoured Korean War Veterans.
On the 19th of October we had another gathering at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch
175 in Edmonton in order to make plans for the forthcoming Remembrance Day. The
Legion was gracious enough to allow our Branch to do fundraising alongside their meat
draws and 50/50 draws.
On November 11th members of the Branch participated in the wreath laying ceremony at
Branch members attend parade
honouring Korean War Veterans.
Branch members socialize with visiting Royal.
PRO PATRIA 2013 125
the Branch 175 Cenotaph. This was the first official event where our Branch flag was part
of the flag party.
Members of the Branch and guests celebrated the Regimental Birthday, Branch Anniversary
and remembering the Battle of Ortona at the Sicilian Pasta Kitchen in Edmonton, Alberta
on the 14th of December, 2013. The Restaurant did a marvelous job of providing china and
atmosphere appropriate for the Ortona Toast.
During 2013 we also attended funerals on behalf of the Regiment and provided a presence
in the community and online. We’re proud to say that membership has not only increased
but we’re finding members across Canada who want to stay in touch with us! It has truly
been an honour to keep up this contact with members of the Regiment whether serving or
retired. Pro Patria.
KINGSTON BRANCH, THE RCR ASSOCIATION
By Rick Hatton
Kingston Branch Members attending 3 RCR Colour
Presentation in Toronto 27 April 2013. L-R: Rick Hatton, Dave
The Kingston Branch of the RCR
Association had a very active year in
2013 and is already well-launched
on an even-busier 2014 calendar.
Centred on a vibrant community with
a rich military history and an active
current Army footprint, Kingston
and area is a consistently popular
retirement destination for many Royal
Canadians. Our branch is very healthy
with over 50 actively-participating
retired Regimental family members to
support our events.
Honey, Lana Holmes, Alex Itenson, Walter Holmes.
We are especially fortunate now with
the support of a very strong and varied
ERE component of Serving Members in the area. BGen Jim Simms (Commander CF Joint
Ops Support Command), Col Rob Walker (Cmdt Canadian Army Command & Staff College)
and LCol Jim Muth (local ERE Mentor) have rallied the local Serving Royals who now attend
and support many of our events and notably enrich our group. Many of our Branch events
are now co-operatively organized; all events now include significant participation from
both retired and serving members and almost all events are mixed.
Several of our Branch members travelled to St. John’s, NL to attend and enjoy the 130th
Anniversary Regimental Reunion celebrations in August 2013 and we would like to join
others from across Canada to whole-heartedly congratulate the organizers of that very
successful and memorable event.
Kingston Branch events in 2013 have included a handover of Branch President responsibilities
in January from Tom Tarrant to Rick Hatton (the VP is Rusty Bassarab), the Paardeberg
Dinner on 28 February, Pub Nights on 25 April and 25 June, a golf tournament on 19
August, end-summer BBQ on 14 September, a curry lunch (organized by ERE members)
126 PRO PATRIA 2013
on 16 October, Remembrance Day
service at the local Army Navy Air Force
(ANAF) Veterans unit on 11 November,
Regimental Birthday lunch (joint with
the Royal Canadian Dragoons) on 7
December and finally concluding the
year with a Regimental Birthday pub
lunch on 21 December.
We welcome visitors from other
Association branches and Serving
Members on duty or leave in the area at
our events – for info contact Rick Hatton
at [email protected].
90th Birthday celebration for Maj Bob Nuttall (Ret’d), a veteran of
WWII and Korea. L-: Joe Bedard (RCAF), Reg Kirkland (1000 Islands
Branch), Al Kowalenko (48th Highlanders), Bob Nuttall (1000 Islands
Branch), Eric Devlin (Perth Branch), Rick Hatton (Kingston Branch).
Newfoundland Branch, The RCR Association
By Jason Dicks
The Newfoundland Branch of the Royal Canadian
Regiment Association hosted the 130th Royal
Canadian Regiment reunion at St. John’s. The
reunion took place during the summer of 2013
from August 2nd to the 4th.
The event, “Royals on the Rock”, was spearheaded
by MWO Bruce King. MWO King and his committee
played host to about 250 serving or retired
“Royals” and guests. Among the distinguished
guests was the Colonel of the Regiment, Col W.J.
Aitchison, who has held that appointment since
2011.
Last year’s reunion also marked a significant
milestone, being the 60th Anniversary of the
Korean War Armistice. With several Korean
War veterans present, the reunion provided the
opportunity to reflect and remember the many
accomplishments and sacrifices made during that
conflict. The reunion incorporated a church service
amongst its planned events, where attendees were
warmed by a heartfelt rendition of Amazing Grace
by the 2 RCR Pipes and Drums. Respects were
continued as a lone bugler played the Last Post
and Reveille to the deeply moved gathering.
Col W.J. Aitchison, the Colonel of the
Regiment, standing with the commemorative
bust of HRH Prince Philip.
Royals on the Rock” Committee, the Colonel of
the Regiment and senior Royals attending the
130th Regimental Reunion at St. John’s.
The first night’s event included a meet & greet, which gave Royals and spouses the occasion
to reconnect and retell stories and anecdotes of days gone by, as glasses clinked and drinks
were raised. Attendees received were welcomed by an opening address from MWO King
PRO PATRIA 2013 127
UPPER OTTAWA VALLEY BRANCH
By W.O. Gary S. Harrington, CD (Ret’d), President, Upper
Ottawa Valley Branch, The RCR Association
Editor’s Note: This article was intended for Pro Patria 2012, but through mischance was not published in that edition.
As it describes an event of some Regimental historical importance, the 2012 Annual General Meeting of The RCR
Association it is being included in Pro Patria 2013.
The RCR Korean War Wall of Remembrance on
The 130th Anniversary Regimental Reunion at St. John’s in full swing.
display during the Regimental Reunion.
as well as from Col W.J. Aitchison.
The second day commenced with the
Association General Meeting followed by
the opportunity for participants to enjoy
assorted tours, sight-seeing and some
local shopping. That evening all enjoyed
Mainlanders being “Screeched In” during the Regimental Reunion.
an extravagant banquet with a delicious
meal. The real entertainment commenced when a local band performed traditional
Newfoundland music for an eager crowd.
After the first set, the fun was only beginning; another milestone was about to take place.
Out of the 250 attending, over half had never been to Newfoundland before. Therefore,
it was only fitting that they perform the ritual of becoming honorary Newfoundlanders.
Dozens of nervous-looking mainlanders gathered to become Screeched In. The source of
the nervousness was difficult to determine; was it the prospect of tasting the salty lips of a
codfish, or to feel the burning sensation of the Screech as was ingested? Perhaps it could
be the inability to recite, “Long may your big jib draw me ol’ cocky”.
Royals on the Rock proved to be a reunion to be remembered. It provided the chance for
old friends to reunite, and new friendships to be formed. For those who have never been
to Newfoundland, it gave them the opportunity to experience the hospitality, customs,
traditions, beauty, and uniqueness of an amazing province.
Most of all, this weekend reinforced the old adage, “Once a Royal, always a Royal”.
As well in 2013 we had four of our Branch members awarded the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee
Medal. These Branch members were
Mr. Charlie Rees
CWO Terry Hurley
Roxanne Hurley
Sgt Glenn Parks (Ret)
Since our reunion in August our membership in the Branch has slowly increased. We have
Royals showing up we never knew existed. Our two cod fish that we used at the reunion are
still having nightmares from having to kiss so many mainlanders.
128 PRO PATRIA 2013
The Branch has had another enjoyable
and busy year. The annual meetings and
gatherings brought together old friends and
new. The Upper Ottawa Valley Branch is
strong and continues to grow, however there
is still much work to do be done to expand
our membership. I am appealing to current
members to encourage their friends and
colleagues who are a part of the Regimental
family to get involved and support our cause.
Some of the Regimental stalwarts who attended AGM 2012.
The Branch continues to celebrate the
Regiment’s great history, including Pachino
Day, Kowang-San Day and the Regimental
Birthday.
These annual events have been shared in a
very positive way by the Branch and the two
battalions of our Regiment here in Petawawa.
This year the 3rd Battalion, The Royal
Canadian Regiment hosted the Regiment’s
129th birthday in their newly renovated
Senior NCOs’ and Officers’ Rest Easy. Great
conversation, a meal, and, of course, the
Ortona Toast, led by the Chairman of The RCR
Association, Bob McBride. Thanks to the 3rd
Battalion for a great afternoon, particularly
on this very important day in our Regimental
calendar.
The AGM, held in 3 RCR Lines, was well supported
by both the Old Guard of The RCR Association and by
the younger serving soldiers of 1 and 3 RCR.
This year our Branch had the pleasure to
host the Annual General Meeting, which was
a huge success. As recorded in the minutes
of that meeting, Petawawa presented the
Bob McBride (at right) presiding over AGM 2012.
perfect setting. Our Chairman, LCol Bob
McBride (Ret’d), many of the Association’s Directors and our President, LCol Randy Kemp
(Ret’d), presented in detail to an audience composed not only of Association members, but
also serving soldiers from both the 1st and 3rd Battalions, and those Royals that serve ERE.
The participation of Regimental Headquarters was most helpful. Major Jim MacInnis, the
Regimental Major, and Captain Ross Appleton, the Regimental Adjutant, and all the RHQ
staff contributed greatly to the AGM’s success. Huge thanks to the 3rd Battalion for the use
PRO PATRIA 2013 129
Gary Harrington (at left), President of the Petawawa
The Petawawa Branch 2012 Golf Tournament participants.
Static Display and Live Fire Range Staff and Association participants
at J Tower Range.
Branch, with friends at the golf tournament.
Padres Murray Bateman and Bob Lay conduct memorial
service at the conclusion of the Association AGM 2012.
Mrs. Sue Atkinson, wife of Capt Sherry
Atkinson (Ret’d), fires the C6 GPMG.
The service of remembrance at the Petawawa Memorial Park.
of their facilities is also owed. However, the AGM was not only geared strictly to business.
On a very sunny Friday afternoon in May, approximately 45 “wannabee” golfers participated
in what has become the Annual Upper Ottawa Branch’s Golf Tournament at the Petawawa
Twin Rivers Golf Club. The golf course gave us a great deal. For $30.00 each we got 18
holes with a cart and a burger with fries and a drink. There were no winners or losers, only
those with the best stories of the day. This will take place again in the spring. A big shout
of thanks to our Battalion Kit Shops for donating so many excellent prizes. It must be noted
that all participates received a prize, which of course were Regimental in nature.
The Commanding Officer of the 1st Battalion, LCol Peter Scott and his Regimental SargentMajor, CWO Kevin Donovan, agreed to conduct a static display and a live fire range in
support of the AGM. This task was given to Major Cathcart, the Officer Commanding
Charles Company. This took place on Saturday morning. At approximately 0900 Hours we
mounted the bus and moved out to J Tower Range. Greeted by Major Cathcart and his
staff, a comprehensive safety briefing took place. The professionalism, genuine interest and
exemplary conduct of the range staff was clearly noted, and without a doubt this was the
highlight of the AGM. Static stands included Snipers, Vehicle Mounted Weapons and an
array of the heavy and light weapons used by our soldiers was conducted with enthusiasm
and a genuine concern for the task at hand. The soldiers tasked with specific weapons and
displays were very patient, providing clear and detailed explanations. Many of the stands
provided us with the opportunity to fire the weapons. This gave us a clear perspective of
the capabilities and fire power of each weapon system. The AGM whole heartedly thanked
the soldiers of Charles Company, who demonstrated the traits and attributes of what is
expected of a soldier in today’s modern army.
On Saturday evening our Branch hosted a BBQ at the Twin Rivers Yacht Club. The back drop
130 PRO PATRIA 2013
Regimental traditions passed from one generation to another. Capt
Sherry Atkinson (Ret’d), WWII veteran, with soldiers from 3 RCR.
of the Ottawa River and the Laurentian
Mountains in the distance provided a
beautiful setting. The BBQ, a typical
Canadian-style menu, consisted of
steak with all the trimmings. Thanks to
Frank Grattan and Bob McKeough for
their efforts at the grill. They are the
BBQ Champs.
The final event of the week-end was
a parade and memorial service at the
CFB Petawawa Memorial. The parade
was well attended by members of the
Regimental family. The service led by
Padres Murray Bateman (3 RCR) and
Bob Lay (1 RCR). The parade marshalled
at the new CFB Petawawa Memorial
Park where our Fallen Comrades were
respectfully remembered. God Bless
our Fallen Comrades and may they
Rest in Peace.
In summary, I would like to thank
all those who contributed to all our
functions throughout the year and
continue to support the traditions that
are the very DNA of our Regiment.
The Royal Canadian Regiment needs
all our support and in particular the
mentoring of our Regiment’s young
soldiers. Your efforts and loyalty have
not gone unnoticed and are greatly
appreciated.
Note: A very special thanks to A Company,
Land Force Central Area Training Center Det
Petawawa for its behind the scene support.
At the AGM BBQ at the Petawawa Yacht Club, Maj Jim
Petawawa Branch members Frank Grattan (left) and
MacInnis, Regimental Major (left) and LCol Bob McBride
Bob McKeough (right), the BBQ Champs.
(Ret’d), Chairman of The RCR Association (right).
PRO PATRIA 2013 131
Waterloo–Wellington
North Branch
WINDSOR-ESSEX
COUNTY BRANCH
L-R: John Faulkner, Ron Gross, Harty Utech, Don Squires,
Ron Green. Photo taken by Donna Faulkner at the Battle of
By Hardy Wheeler, Branch Vice President
the Atlantic Parade in Waterloo, ON, May 5, 2013.
Certificate of Merit Award presented to John
Faulkner at the WWNB meeting April 28, 2013. L-R:
Sgt Jim Gardiner (Ret’d), WWNB Secretary, John
(Jack) Faulkner; Ron Gross, WWNB President.
The Battle of Britain Parade in Waterloo on September 15, 2013. L-R:
Ron Green, Jim Gardiner, Ron Gross. Photo taken by Evelyn Gross.
The Colour Party in the Battle of the Atlantic Parade in
Waterloo on May 5. Ron Green carrying the Banner and Mr.
On the 18th of December we gathered at the Lumberjack Restaurant in Windsor for a
pleasant dinner and the Ortona Toast to The Regiment offered by Sherry Atkinson. Sherry,
a veteran of the Pachino landing and Italian campaign, attended with his wife Susan. Both
were in Sicily this past summer representing The Regiment for the 70th anniversary of Op
HUSKY. Don’t we all wish we had the energy and enthusiasm for our Regiment as Sherry?
Gornik just in front of Ron Green. Photo by Harty Utech.
Above: Ron Gross was a presenter at the “Why We Remember”
Program, 15-18 October 2013. The “Why We Remember Week”
program is promoted every year by the WWNB Poppy Fund.
Students are bussed to the Royal Canadian Legion from all the
Kitchener, ON, June 2, 2013. L-R: Don Squires, Jeff Allen, Mrs.
Gornik, Jim Gardiner, Ron Gross. Photo taken by Harty Utech.
and one in the afternoon through the 4 days of the program.
The WWNB then takes on all the schools the Memory Project
send us. Ron Green and Ron Gross had three schools this
Regimental Birthday Gathering – 21 December
2013
year, Baden School Grade 5 with 47 students on November 5,
Elmira School with 80 Grade 5 students on November 7, and
65 Grade 8 students on November 8 in New Hamburg, ON.
Briefers employed Power Point Presentation and hand out
stick on Poppies, book marks from the Legion and information
on planning a visit to our Regimental Museum. Frank Reid
conducted a Power Point Presentation at the U of W on November
11. Jim Gardiner laid a wreath in Elmira on November 10 and
Jeff Allen and Ron Green laid a wreath in Kitchener on November
11 and Ron Gross laid a wreath in Waterloo on Remembrance
Day. Photo by Jim Conrad of the Royal Canadian Legion.
132 PRO PATRIA 2013
Like most branches we have a solid core of regular attendees and once in a while other
Royals join in. There were never many Royals who retired or settled in the Windsor-Essex
area and it seems that most of the younger members of the Regimental family are not as
keen on the Association as us older folk; something every branch seems to be experiencing.
We are constantly reaching out with the message that when new members are ready they
have a place with us. Regardless of the numbers we have fun, enjoy the camaraderie and
value our time in The Regiment.
Winnipeg Branch - The Royal Canadian
Regiment Association
schools in Kitchener and Waterloo; one school in the morning
was also present at his daughters’ school on Remembrance Day.
Greetings from the small, but very loyal
group of Royals in Canada South. From
modest beginnings in 1999, when we placed
Branch members (in blazers) at the 2013 Regimental
a regimental badge on the South African
Birthday Dinner, L-R: Front – Bill Lappan, Sherry
War Memorial in Jackson Park in Windsor,
Atkinson; Rear – Ed Bernard, Jack Denny, Jim Dobson,
we have gathered for dinner meetings each
Bob Papak, Hardy Wheeler, Zane Handysides.
year since. For most of that time we have
enjoyed the leadership of Doug Bingeman,
but this year Jim Dobson took over the President’s position when Doug’s health began to
affect his mobility. Representing Royals with service in World War II, the Korean War, the
Cold War, Former Yugoslavia and Afghanistan, we meet four times a year to commemorate
the Regimental Birthday, Paardeberg Day, Pachino Day and Kowang-San (Hill 355) Day. At
every occasion family members are encouraged to attend and many do.
Remembrance Day 2013 at Waterloo. L-R: Jack Faulkner (The
RCR), Sid Kenmir (RCAFA Wing 404), Ron Gross (The RCR). Photo
taken by Capt Mel Barrie, CD (Ret’d) (RCAFA 404 Wing).
On 21 December 2013, a few Royals and their
spouses gathered at the home of Dennis and
Christine Tabbernor to celebrate the 130th
Birthday of the Regiment. This year’s gathering
was a small but animated group. Joining
the Tabbernors were Ray Taylor and Julie
Levesque, Doc and Linda Jardine and Cameron
(Buck) and Valerie Buchanan. Regimental and
Airborne war stories were plentiful.
L to R: Ray Taylor, Julie Levesque, Doc Jardine, Linda Jardine,
Christine Tabbernor, Cameron (Buck) Buchanan, Valerie Buchanan.
PRO PATRIA 2013 133
OTTAWA AND DISTRICT BRANCH
By Bob Near, Vice President Ottawa and District Branch
Overview. Through 2013, Ottawa and
District Branch continued to thrive, ending
the year with approximately 50 dues paying
members and about double that on our
contact list. Under branch president, Ivan
Fenton, several initiatives were launched
to increase numbers. These included
experimenting with meeting places different
from our usual one at the Army Officers Mess,
including a Legion hall and the Ottawa Police
Association. While these locations had certain
attractions, the rental costs were a downside,
and there was no noticeable “spike” in our
attendees. Notwithstanding, by emphasising
close comradeship amongst members, the
importance of our regimental history, and
outreach to those experiencing mobility and
transport issues, we upheld the philosophy
of Once a Royal Canadian, Always a Royal
Canadian, resulting in excellent esprit de
corps, and growing numbers attending our
gatherings.
Paardeberg
Serving as the Ottawa Branch Executive for 2013
were (L-R) Jim Gunn, Secretary Treasurer; Ivan Fenton,
President; and Bob Near, Vice President.
With 2013 being the 60th Anniversary of the
Korean armistice, we undertook a number
of events with that theme, while giving
particular attention to our Korean War
veterans. This included on 15 May joining
with 3 RCR in Petawawa to commemorate
the 60th anniversary of the Battle of Hill
187, and observing the inter-platoon
Branch Korean War veterans Ed Mastronardi and John Woods enjoy
competition for the Ed Hollyer, MC Trophy.
the company of Colonel of the Regiment, Joe Aitchison, and CO
Unfortunately, Ed’s health precluded him
3 RCR, LCol Dave Quick, during commemorative celebrations in
from attending; however, Jim Gunn who
Petawawa marking the 60th Anniversary of the Battle of Hill 187.
fought at Hill 187 made it, as did vets Ed
Mastronardi and John Woods. Ed and John gave short, crisp speeches to the Battalion
formed up in hollow square, leaving our younger “Royals” with inspiring words about the
Regiment’s reputation for courage and steadiness, which we clearly saw as being upheld
by today’s generation of Royal Canadians!
Ed Mastronardi Photo Album
Donation. Colonel of the Regiment, Joe
During 2013, Ottawa Branch promoted the Regiment’s illustrious
history, including visits to the Canadian War Museum. Here Major
Robbie Robertson (Ret’d) is about to take members back to 1885
and the Canadian Northwest, the Regiment’s first combat action.
Day.
On 27 February,
accompanied by our ladies, we celebrated Paardeberg Day at a local Indian restaurant.
Our numbers were somewhat down on account of a massive snow dump, which almost
required a LAV to negotiate! Notwithstanding, the dozen hardy souls that managed to
plough through enjoyed an excellent evening of fine cuisine and warm comradeship.
Presentation of New 3 RCR Regimental Colour. Several members of the Branch
having a 3 RCR heritage travelled to Toronto for the presentation on 27 April of a new
Regimental Colour to 3 RCR by our Colonel-In-Chief, the Duke of Edinburgh. It was,
indeed, a glorious occasion and we were honoured and pleased that members of The
RCR Association were included in this impressive regimental event, including the reception
afterwards, with HRH Prince Philip.
War Museum Visits. An important branch theme in 2013 was enhancing members’
appreciation of our illustrious regimental history. This produced a couple of excursions to
the Canadian War Museum in Ottawa, with the added bonus of a free cafeteria lunch for
CF veterans. Guided tours of the War of 1812, the North West Rebellion and South African
War galleries were much enjoyed, while our own Robbie Robertson, Bob Near, Jaz Haley
and Bob Anglin, proved eminently adept at bringing to life some of the more remarkable
aspects of these conflicts.
134 PRO PATRIA 2013
60th Anniversary Korean Armistice.
Aitcheson, joined us for our June gathering
to receive from Ed Mastronardi his photo
album and scrap book containing a
treasure trove of photographs, and
other material depicting 2 RCR’s time in
Korea, 1951-52. To be preserved in the
Regimental Museum, Ed’s donation will
help future generations of Royal Canadians
learn about the exploits and sacrifices of
their Korean War predecessors.
“28 Heroes.” Remembrance of Korea
continued into the autumn, with the branch
being invited to attend on 6 November a
special screening of the film 28 Heroes at
the Canadian War Museum. This film is
Above: Ottawa Branch members toast the Regiment
of special interest to the Regiment, as it
at their June monthly gathering in the Infantry
describes in detail the Battle of the SongRoom of the Ottawa Army Officers Mess.
Gok Spur, fought on 2-3 November 1951
Ottawa Branch is proud to have many members who
by 2 Platoon, A Company, 2 RCR. Shot at
served with 2 RCR, ranging from Korean War veterans
Camp Meaford, with real soldiers as the
through to the present, as their hair colour indicates.
actors, the film dramatically portrays how
Lt. Ed Mastronardi and his 28 men of the “Flying Deuce,” during nine hours of intense
combat, repelled a series of Chinese battalion attacks, thereby preventing the main
Canadian defensive line from being outflanked. For his leadership and courage, Ed
received the Military Cross. The film evening was a gala affair, attended by the Minister
of Veterans Affairs, the South Korean military attaché, CF members, Korean War veterans,
PRO PATRIA 2013 135
and families of soldiers who served in Korea. A
highlight was a post-film Q&A session featuring
Ed along with one his surviving soldiers from the
battle Pte Red Butler, now living on Manitoulin
Island. Both Ed and Red recalled with pride the
steadfastness and valour of the troops, reflecting
the highest standards of The RCR. The evening
culminated with Ed and Red receiving certificates
of commendation from the Honourable Mr.
Fantino. It should also be said that the actual
“premiere” showing of 28 Heroes took place a
few days earlier in Meaford at the town’s civic
theatre, with Ed, Red, and John Woods being
the town’s special guests, with the Commander
of Camp Meaford providing them a personal
escort and an outstanding level of R&Q!
Op Husky 2013. The branch was not remiss in marking other events of significance to
On 1 November 2013, the world premiere of “28 Heroes”
was screened at Meaford, Ontario. Attending (left to right)
were Korean War veterans Ed Delaney (2 RCR), the two
stars of “28 Heroes” – Ed Mastronardi and Red Butler, and
John Woods (all of 2 RCR.) The film was later screened in
a gala event at the Canadian War Museum, with Ottawa
Branch members among the special guests invited.
Korea Veterans Reception and Sing Along. Ottawa Branch’s final Korea themed
event took place the evening following the film screening. And a spirited time it was,
being a combination of joyous party and musical sing-along featuring the top “soldier
hits” of 1953! We had a fine turnout of members and spouses, including mostly all of our
Korea veterans, representatives from the Korean
Veterans Association, and a smattering of young
serving Royals posted to Ottawa. Guest speaker
for the evening was RCAF Major-General Claude
LaFrance (Ret’d), a fighter pilot credited with
“bagging” a Chinese MIG fighter, and who gave
the toast to all who served in the war. Certainly, it
was a wonderful evening filled with comradeship,
story swapping, plenty of Asahi beer, and
everyone singing or humming along to the tunes
that were popular with the lads in Korea. Credit
for the evening’s success goes to Terry Meagher,
who arranged the musical programme comprising
the same musicians and singers featured on
Terry’s musical CD Songs of the Canadian Soldier
in Korea.
the Regiment, including the 70th anniversary of Operation Husky, the Allied invasion of
Sicily in July 1943. As part of “Op Husky 2013,” we were pleased to sponsor a deserving
soldier from 1 RCR to be part of this commemoration. Through the personal generosity
of a number of our members, plus a donation from branch funds, we were able to send
MCpl Charlie Cockerell to Sicily, for the purpose of giving him first hand knowledge and
experience of this chapter of our regimental history, which he could subsequently pass on
to his peers. During his week on that storied island, MCpl Cockerell had the added bonus
of being escort to the venerable Capt Sherry Atkinson, now in his nineties, who landed
with The RCR at Pachino as part of the original Op Husky, and who fought throughout
the campaign until wounded. Sherry’s daily web blog of his Op Husky 2013 experiences
became a must read for us, and having MCpl Cockerell in Sicily with Sherry confirmed
that we had indeed made an excellent decision in sponsoring a serving Royal Canadian
to personally connect to this part of our regiment’s warfighting experience. We were also
pleased to see Phil Bury of the branch make his own way over to Sicily and add to The RCR
presence. Phil proved he still had the right infantry stuff by joining in the hot and dusty
commemorative march that trekked around the island to the various battle sights.
Pachino Day. Meanwhile in Ottawa,
branch members twice celebrated the
70th anniversary of the Regiment’s
landing at Pachino. The first was,
appropriately, on 10 July, as guests of
some 80 Royals, who were members of
the Ceremonial Guard, at their “barracks”
at Carleton University. This occasion also
provided us an opportunity to have
reserved seating for the Changing of
Ottawa Branch members celebrate Pachino Day
the Guard ceremony on Parliament Hill.
2013 with plenty of “vino” and good cheer.
Our second Pachino celebration was our
own branch’s, held a couple of days later
and featuring traditional spaghetti and plenty of “Italian Red.” MCpl Penny, on tasking
with the Ceremonial Guard, proposed the Toast to The Regiment, with Pipe Major Hugh
MacPherson doing the musical score. This included The Moro River Crossing, a beautiful
tune composed by Hugh in honour of his father, an engineer in the RCE who supported the
Regiment throughout the Sicilian and Italian campaigns.
Newfoundland Reunion. During 2-4
Top: Branch activities for 2013 focussed on commemorating the 60th Anniversary of
the Korean War Armistice. This included, in November, a reception and “sing-along” of
top “soldier hits” of the Korean War and getting everyone back into the spirit of 1953!
Middle: The branch’s “Honouring our Korean Vets” evening, included members from the
Korea Veterans Association, and guest speaker MGen Claude LaFrance (RCAF) who gave
the toast. He is shown here with the other Korea vets who were part of the festivities.
Les Peat’s book, “The War That Wasn’t – Canadian in Korea” was also a “keeper!”
Bottom: Ottawa Branch’s Korean War Songs “jamboree” was enjoyed by everyone,
especially our venerable Claude McKenny who served with 1 RCR in Korea.
136 PRO PATRIA 2013
Ottawa Branch members Bob Near and Jim Gunn enjoy a drink
with former 3 RCR Drum Major Terry Hurley, at the outstanding
Regimental reunion in Newfoundland, 2-4 August.
August, Ivan Fenton, Sandy McQuarrie
and Bob Near along with their wives
attended
the
Regiment’s
130th
Anniversary celebrations and reunion
in St John’s, Newfoundland. Being
“screeched in” and “kissing the cod”
were highlights, while the great local
music, whale watching, and visits with
old friends – some not seen for decades
PRO PATRIA 2013 137
At the Regimental Re-union, “Kissing the Cod” (after being
“Screeched In”) was a great way for Ottawa folks to be introduced
to Newfoundland’s superb hospitality and culture.
– made for a splendid and memorable event. Our
thanks and praises go out to MWO King and his
fellow organizers from the Newfoundland Branch for
what was an outstanding reunion!
Speaker Programme: Several times during the
year, Branch members became enlightened on
a range of subjects presented by guest speakers, coming from both within and outside
the Regiment. These included our own LCol Marty Lipcsey, the J5 Plans at the Canadian
Joint Operations Command, who spoke on PTSD and mental well-being, and BGen Denis
Thompson who briefed us on Canada’s Special Forces and their capabilities.
Branch Election and Annual General Meeting. It seemed that branch members
were satisfied with the Executive’s performance, and in October re-elected Ivan Fenton
as President, Bob Near as Vice President, and Jim Gunn as Treasurer. The Executive
was reinforced shortly afterwards by Sandy McQuarrie generously volunteering to come
forward and take on the job of Branch Secretary.
Remembrance Day. On 11 November, in addition
to members partaking in various local ceremonies of
remembrance, the branch laid a wreath on the grave
of Pte R.R. Thompson, winner of Queen Victoria’s
scarf, joining with a detachment from 1 RCR for this
at the Chelsea, Quebec pioneer cemetery.
St. Andrew’s Day Festivities. At the end of
November, we strengthened our ties with the Ottawa
Black Watch Association in a joint celebration of St
Andrew’s Day. This included an impressive “Piping in
of the Haggis,” followed by more than a few drams
of Scotch whisky, and Robbie Robertson giving an
incomprehensible (to those not Scottish!) tongue
rolling address to that noble pudding!
Wreaths Across Canada. For the second year, the
branch participated in the “Wreaths Across Canada”
ceremony at Beechwood National Military
Pte R.R. Thompson, winner of the Queen’s Scarf in the South
Cemetery. This is a very moving event in which
African
War, was remembered on 11 November with Bob Near
some 3,000 military headstones of departed
and
Ray
Elliston
of Ottawa Branch joining soldiers of 1 RCR to lay
CAF members are decorated with pine wreaths
a
wreath
on
his
headstone
at Chelsea, Quebec Pioneer Cemetery.
and red ribbon. We are particularly proud that
former RSM Dan Bradley -- a member of the
Members and spouses of Ottawa Branch, including Vera
branch – is one of the executive members
Near and Ray Elliston, partook in a number of Remembrance
of Wreaths Across Canada, and has been
Day ceremonies, including this one in Chelsea, Quebec.
instrumental in the event’s success.
138 PRO PATRIA 2013
Left: At the end of November, John “Robbie” Robertson gave a stirring “Address to the Haggis”
as part of a joint RCR- Black Watch Association celebration of St. Andrews Day.
Right: On 1 December, Ottawa Branch members and their families joined hundreds of fellow Canadians at the Beechwood Cemetery
to lay some 3000 wreaths on the headstones of departed CF members, honouring their service to Queen and Country.
Regimental Birthday Dinner: On 14 December,
the branch marked the 130th birthday of the Regiment
with a dinner celebration at the Ottawa Hunt Club,
with some 75 members and spouses in attendance.
The guests were serenaded by the Jazz Ensemble of
the Governor-General’s Foot Guards Band. Special
guests for the evening were the Ambassador of the
Republic of Korea, His Excellency Mr. Cho, with Mrs.
Cho, and the Korean military attaché and his wife,
Colonel and Mrs. Choi. Ambassador Cho delivered
an excellent after-dinner speech, highlighting the
gratitude of all South Koreans for the
assistance of Canada and other nations
in that war of more than 60 years ago,
extending his sympathy for our losses. After
extending warm congratulations for the
Regiment’s birthday, assisted by Col Choi,
Ambassador Cho presented Korean gifts to
all present. In return, Branch President Ivan
Fenton gave the Ambassador a beautiful
picture book, describing 115 special places
that visitors to Canada should see.
Top: Ottawa Branch’s celebration of the Regiment’s 130th
Birthday featured as special guests His Excellency Mr. Cho,
Ambassador of the Republic of Korea and Mrs. Cho.
Middle: Regimental Birthday celebrants at this are the Nears, Dicks,
Halpennys and Declerqs, all comrades from 3 RCR, Germany days.
Bottom: The Ambassador and Military Attaché of the Republic of
Korea extended their country’s deepest thanks to our Korea veterans
in attendance, for helping defend democracy and freedom.
PRO PATRIA 2013 139
Ortona Toast: On 19 December, at Cartier Square Drill Hall WOs and Sergeants Mess,
branch members joined serving members of the Regiment in conducting the Ortona
Toast, commemorating the manner and means by which the Regiment celebrated its 50th
birthday. BGen Mike Jorgensen’s eloquent toast to the Regiment stirred our hearts, and
with warm comradeship and ample good cheer, we entered into the Christmas season ever
proud to be Royal Canadians!
Departed Comrades. Sadly, a number of comrades in the Branch departed this world
in 2013, these being: Major Laurence O’Neill; LCol Ed Hollyer, MC; WO Al Cadieux and
Cpl Sam Lammane. We also lost Helen, wife of Gerry Bowen. While not members of the
Ottawa Branch, we also bade eternal farewells to BGen Stewart Clarke, former Chaplain
General and chaplain to 2 RCR, and to LGen Jack Vance, a true stalwart of the Regiment.
May they all receive their just soldiers’ rewards! Pro Patria
The RCR Association Bursary Awards For 2013
of higher learning (university, trades school, teachers’ college, technical college,
nursing school).
e.In the case of a serving member or serving member’s spouse, the above criteria
apply except there is no time limit between completing secondary school and
commencement of attendance at an institute of higher learning.
The winners of the bursaries are chosen on scholastic achievement, community service
activities, military/cadet service (if any) and family financial position.
Applications must be received at Regimental Headquarters by 31 July, with final marks
submitted by 31 August of the year of application. Applications can be obtained through
The RCR Association, Regimental Headquarters or online at The RCR Association Website
at: www.thercr.ca
The Royal Canadian Regiment Association awards up to three bursaries annually of
$1,500.00 each. The Bursary Committee consisted of Bob McBride, Randy Kemp, and
Steve Anderson. This year’s recipients are as follows:
1.Mr. Julian Donovan, grandson of Mr. John Donovan who served with 2 RCR at
Wolseley Barracks, London, ON, from 1958-1964. Julian’s grade school average
in high school was a remarkable 99%. He is currently studying at the University of
Western Ontario.
2.Ms. Emily Blake of Nanaimo, BC, granddaughter of Mr. Wilfred Vaillancourt who
served with The Royal Canadian Regiment during the Second World War. Emily has
been accepted into the Canadian College of Performing Arts at Victoria, BC. She
plans to pursue a Musical Theatre Program.
3.Ms. Brair Lapointe, daughter of Major Kim Lapointe who is currently serving at
Gagetown, NB. She is attending Saint Thomas University and is working on a degree
in finance with possible aspirations of eventually pursuing a law degree.
The number of bursaries awarded depends upon the number of applicants and their
suitability (applications to be received at RHQ no later than 31 July). Eligible applicants
must be:
a.a child or grandchild of a serving, former serving or deceased member of The
Royal Canadian Regiment; or
b.a serving member of The Royal Canadian Regiment or a spouse of a serving
member; or
c.a member in good standing of a Cadet Corps affiliated with or sponsored by The
Royal Canadian Regiment; and
Clockwise from top left: Home Station,
London and District Branch President, Duncan
McMillan, presenting the bursary cheque
for $1,500 to Julian Donovan, Aug 2013.
Maj Ronald Moll (Ret’d) presents scholastic
bursary cheque to Emily Blake, Aug 2013.
Sunbury-Royale Branch President, Fred
Doucette, presenting a bursary cheque
for $1,500 to Brair Lapointe, Aug 2013.
d.in his or her final year of secondary schooling and preparing to attend an institute
140 PRO PATRIA 2013
PRO PATRIA 2013 141
Guard of the 4th Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment dressed in scarlets, the period
military re-enactments (The Royal Scots and the Canadian Great War Society), military
music and guest speaker Professor Jonathan Vance.
The construction portion of the renovation project at Wolseley Barracks (west wing) was
completed in 2012; this project included major upgrades to the over 126 year old building:
barrier-free access, archway entrance transformed into the museum foyer, expanded exhibit
area, new gift shop, temporary exhibition gallery and restrooms. As a result, the museum
available space doubled in size, from 6,323 square feet in 2009 to 11,598 square feet in
2012.
The Royal Canadian
Regiment Museum
By Dr. Georgiana Stanciu, Curator/Director
The RCR Museum – 30 Years On
Over its 30 years of existence, The Royal
Canadian Regiment Museum has seen an
extraordinary rate of growth, with a multimillion dollar expansion completed, numerous
events, new services and many more visitors
through the door. Change and progress
happened at all levels, from the daily operations and outreach to governance and
partnerships. None of these amazing achievements would have been possible without
hard work and dedication from all those involved with the museum at all levels, including
volunteers, staff, friends, Board of Directors, Regimental Headquarters, the senior hierarchy
of The RCR, and the regimental family at large.
Museum Opening and Permanent Gallery Expansion
On Saturday 28 Sept 2013, The Royal Canadian Regiment Museum held an opening
ceremony in conjunction with the annual London Doors Open under the London Heritage
Council. The ceremony was held on the parade square at Wolseley Barracks. A large crowd
attended this event, and their expectations were exceeded by the entire show: a Quarter
Museum Opening Ceremony, 28 September 2013.
Supplementing the exhibits in the Permanent Gallery was the second major component
of this expansion project. The interpretive plan followed the chronological sequence that
has been adopted during an earlier exhibit assessment, with some additions: an expanded
Cold War/Peace Keeping Missions section, Afghanistan Conflict, Infantry Gallery and
Militia and Reserve Heritage in Southwestern Ontario. Design and production of these
exhibits was directed towards satisfying an increasing demand to introduce not only handson activities, interactive and multimedia
technology, but also themes that pertain to
more recent history, such as the Canadian
participation in the ISAF.
Following the plans presented in the
previous issue of Pro Patria, the gallery
offers a detailed narrative of the most
important elements that shaped the
regimental history since 1883 and before,
if we consider the lineage and perpetuation
of several infantry units raised in Middlesex
and Oxford Counties (Southwestern
Top: Colour Party at the museum opening, The RCR Association
London and Home Station Branch, 28 September 2013.
Bottom: 4 RCR and re-enactors preparing to march to the Parade
Square at Wolseley Barracks, 28 September 2013.
142 PRO PATRIA 2013
PRO PATRIA 2013 143
Ontario). Altogether, there is more than 11,000 square
feet of displays, spread between the first and second
floors of the west wing at Wolseley Barracks.
A visit to the museum begins on the first floor, where
little change was brought to the already existing
layout. Noteworthy changes are the Ivey Medal Gallery
(relocated from the second floor) and the introduction
of History in the Making, an abstract of the regimental
history in the shape of an interactive structure, taking the
visitor from the formation of the Infantry School Corps in
1883 up to the end of Op ATHENA in 2012.
Left: Medals, Honours and Awards, January
2013. The relocation from the second floor
and adjustments needed to the display
cabinet to fit the new lay out were carried
on by Legend Woodcraft of Aylmer, ON.
Right: The Regimental Timeline, new
interactive display, April 2013. This display
unit has been developed by Hamilton
Scenic Specialty Inc. of Hamilton, ON
and Rae Lam Designs of Toronto, ON.
Visitors are then invited to continue on to the second
floor where all combat missions and other significant operations that The RCR was part of,
are interpreted. The storyline begins with the training of the militia and other operations
before the formation of the 2nd (Special Service) Battalion, Royal Canadian Regiment, the
first Canadian unit under Canadian leadership ever deployed overseas in an armed conflict
– the Second Anglo-Boer War (1899 – 1902) in South Africa. Following a brief interlude on
the topic of the Edwardian soldier, the gallery continues with one of the most important war
efforts ever made by Canadians: the First World War.
The major changes in the museum permanent gallery begin after the inter-war period, with
completely revised Second World War, Korean War, Cold War – Peacekeeping, Afghanistan
Conflict, Infantry Gallery, and Militia and Reserve Heritage galleries.
Governance, Staff and Volunteers
Business Plan for the Future
The Board of Directors adopted in 2013 an important document outlining the future of The
Royal Canadian Regiment Museum: the Five Year Business Plan. Consequently, new vision
and mission statements were adopted:
Vision
The RCR Museum will promote and enhance the pride that Canadians have in their military
144 PRO PATRIA 2013
and its achievements through ensuring they know the
story of one of our nation’s great Regiments.
Mission
The Royal Canadian Regiment Museum, as a component
of The Royal Canadian Regiment, will preserve, collect
and present artefacts, archives and other militaria that are
relevant for the history of the Regiment in order to assist in
building pride, esprit and solidarity amongst all members
of The RCR family. The Museum will also foster a deeper
understanding of the Regimental experience, within the
broader context of military and Canadian history, among
other veterans, communities in the London area and all
Canadians.
The document also includes strategic direction towards
achieving short, medium and long term goals, such as
ensuring better exposure within the larger Regimental
family across the country and the local London community,
increasing the number of visitors, establishing a proper
collections management process, continuously upgrading
the exhibits, constantly increasing the volunteer body and
source funding for new staff positions.
Newly Adopted Policies
In line with the strategic document, but also as a
Clockwise from top left: The section of the
permanent gallery dedicated to the Conflict in
Afghanistan includes an Observation Post with
an interactive kiosk, September 2013. An oral
history project related to The RCR contribution
to this operation will start in 2014-2015.
Artefact cataloguer, Kaitlyn Pettigrew and
Volunteer, James Wray, preparing the artefacts
before installation in the display cases, July 2013.
The Militia and Reserve Heritage of The RCR,
September 2013. Blue Rhino Design developed
this section of the permanent gallery, also
including an eight minute documentary
on the units perpetuated by The RCR.
Afghanistan conflict, full scale
diorama, August 2013.
Sgt Markus Brants during installation of the
weapons in their new display case, July 2013. The
Weapons Section is part of the Infantry Gallery,
developed with Blue Rhino Design of Toronto, ON.
The crew from Hamilton Scenic Specialty Inc.
designed, built and installed the museum’s
full scale replica of the M113A, June 2013.
The M113A APC is part of the Cold
War section, June 2013.
PRO PATRIA 2013 145
requirement to comply with Canadian museums
standard practices, the Board of Directors
proceeded with the adoption of a new set
of policies. These policies address museum
operations, covering a wide spectrum from
Financial, Collections, and Exhibitions, to
Research, Interpretation and Community.
Services and Education Department. This department will coordinate all aspects related
to delivering programs and tours to the public including, but not limited to members of
The RCR, school groups, seniors, tourists, etc. It goes without saying, new positions were
required to conduct routine operations: a department coordinator (paid position) and
education facilitators (volunteer positions).
New Partnership
With the numerous movements the museum’s collection suffered during the renovation/
construction conducted between 2010 and 2013, the collection was in need of a thorough
revision to include re-structuring of the storage areas, cataloguing backlogged donations,
and ultimately establishing a proper collections management process.
Along with the requirement to provide services
to the Regimental and to the local, provincial
and national communities, comes a large variety
of opportunities. These include joint projects
in the areas of public relations and financial
support. A consortium of five London museums
was formed to apply for new provincial funding,
the Cultural Development Fund. The other
four museums are: Fanshawe Pioneer Village,
the London Children Museum, the Museum
of Ontario Archaeology, and the Canadian
Medical Hall of Fame. So far, the project has
been successful and the partners will share a
digital marketing campaign to include website
development/improvement that will increase
visibility within London, ON and southwestern
ON.
Entering partnerships was a very timely
coincidence with the recently adopted
goals from another perspective: creating
new positions within the staff organization.
Fortunately, it wasn’t long before two of these
positions could be supported through regular
funding programs available in the heritage and
culture sector: Visitor Services and Education
Coordinator (made possible through the
Community Heritage Investment Plan disbursed
by the London Heritage Council) and Artefact
Cataloguer (summer student position funded
through Public Service Canada).
Artefact Cataloguer
Volunteers
Over 4,000 hours of volunteer work were necessary for routine operations during 2013; in
addition, 1,000 volunteer hours were put into developing permanent exhibits during the
museum’s expansion.
Top: Ms. Kaitlyn Pettigrew won the competition for the
summer student position, Artefact Cataloguer. Kaitlyn
graduated from Western University and is currently enrolled
in a PhD program in the Department of Classical Studies.
Hands-on experience in cataloguing at archeological
sites was very helpful for the task that Kaitlyn undertook
at the museum: catching up with the backlog of artefact
donations and initiating a thorough collections revision.
By August 2013, when Kaitlyn’s tenure was over, more
than 900 new artefact records had been created, and
the transition storage for collections re-organized.
By December 2013, the museum had 30 volunteers on staff. The large majority are tour
guides and education facilitators, but many of them helped in the exhibit development
process or collections management.
Volunteer Service Awards
The Ontario Ministry of Immigration and Citizenship helps not-for-profit agencies to
recognize those who generously contribute to the community by volunteering their time
and their respective expertise. The Ontario Volunteer Service Award is a program that
Bottom: Ms. Jane Morphew aced the competition for Visitor
Services and Education Coordinator and she was hired as
of 15 July 2013. Jane graduated from Western University
and has a strong background in teaching in Ontario at the
secondary level. Extensive experience as a historic interpreter
for Eldon House in London and invaluable knowledge of the
city’s heritage and cultural sector made her the best candidate
for the Visitor Services and Education Coordinator position
at The RCR Museum. As soon as she came on board, a new
education program was initiated, and by the end of 2013
Visitor Services and
Education Coordinator
some of the activities and tours were already implemented.
Increasing the number of visitors is one of the
highest priorities and to achieve such a goal
the proper framework was established: a Visitor
JK to Grade 12. In addition, Jane is in charge of coordinating
146 PRO PATRIA 2013
While the museum has always counted on the generous contribution of numerous
supporters, starting in 2013 the volunteer base was enlarged by pro-actively recruiting
more people from The RCR Association (mainly from the Home Station, London and District
Branch), students from Western University or Fanshawe College.
“Tales of the Eight-Pointed Star” is an Ontario curriculum
based education program, targeting all school grades from
and delivering all tour bookings at the museum, from local
youth groups to tourists in transit through London, ON.
Museum volunteers received the 2013 Ontario Service Award on 24 April 2014 for
their genourous support. From left to right: Maj John O’Quinn (Ret’d), Capt Duncan
MacMillan (Ret’d), Maj Don McKelvey (Ret’d), Capt Ray Fleming (Ret’d).
PRO PATRIA 2013 147
accepts nominations for Ontario residents, 16 years old to 80 plus years young. To properly
recognize outstanding commitment, the museum nominated seven individuals for the
2013 Volunteer Service Award.
Museum Collections: Medal Set belonging to the late
LCol George Herb Cloutier (1920 – 2013)
George Herb Cloutier was named officer
commanding “E” (Easy) Company of 1 RCR
on 6 Sept 1952. At this date the company
was raised while 1 RCR was located in the
Kowang-San area (South Korea). Capt
Cloutier led his men with courage and was
an inspiring presence throughout the battle
at Hill 355, 22 – 24 Oct 1952. Capt Cloutier
later served with 2 RCR at Wolseley Barracks
in London. In 1959, Maj Cloutier was one
of the 12 Guard Commanders on 12 July
1959 on the occasion of the Trooping of the
Colours, when HRH Prince Philip presented
both 1 RCR and 3 RCR with new Colours.
The medal set was donated by Mr. George
Akeson, nephew of the late LCol Cloutier. It
is an extraordinary addition to the museum
collection, adding to a series of medal sets
related to other prestigious military careers
of men who served during the Korean War.
Remembrance Day
Military Cross (Canada Gazette, 17 Jan 1953; London Gazette, 23
January 1953, p. 490); CVSM and bar; War Medal 1939-45; Korea
Medal; Canadian Volunteer Service Medal for Korea; Canadian
Peacekeeping Service Medal; United Nations Korea Service
Medal; International Commission for Supervision and Control
Indo-China (ICSC); Army Long Service and Good Conduct Medal;
Canadian Forces Decoration.. Medal set belonging to LCol Herb
Cloutier, MC, CD (1920 – 2013), October 2013, RCRM2015.056.1
Left: ROIC candidates
writing in the museum Guest
Attractive programming was in place during the Remembrance
Book, December 2013.
Day period. A partnership was established with Gammage
Right: Springer Gold Brick
Flowers, a well-known flower shop in London, to decorate the
Ceremony, February 2013.
area adjacent to the Flanders Field Cross, situated in the old
archway. During the Remembrance Day period many groups
solicited the museum for special tours, each of them ending with a short Remembrance
ceremonial. The culmination of these event-tours was the Remembrance Day Ceremony
conducted by 4 RCR in front of The RCR Cenotaph.
Over 200 students from London area (grades 4 to 6) attended the Heritage Fair 2013 held at
Fanshawe Pioneer Village. This event turned out to be one of the most acclaimed heritage
events in town. The event is scheduled for the first Thursday of the month of May every
year and attracts the interest of both students and teachers. The Royal Canadian Regiment
Museum was part of this event for the first time, and the students enjoyed looking at the
Wolseley Helmet as well as creating their own badge in an eight-pointed star.
Events, Outreach
and Awards
ROIC Visit
The Regimental Officers Indoctrination
Course was held as usual in London, at the
beginning of December 2013. The course is
organized by The RCR – RHQ and over 40
young officers spent a full afternoon visiting
the museum as part of their program.
Mr. George Akeson of Ottawa is nephew and executor to the
estate of the late LCol G. Cloutier. Mr. Akeson donated his
uncle’s medal set and military service papers, October 2013.
Gold Bricks
Another type of event hosted at the museum during 2013 were the Gold Brick dedication
ceremonies. A longtime standing partnership with the Scotia Isle retired RCR group, the
Gold Brick program expands every year. Six Golden bricks were dedicated this past year.
Left: The Poppy Well at the Flanders Field Cross. This was a
service cross for those members of The RCR who lost their
lives during the Battle of Mount Sorrel (June 1916).
Above: Flanders Field Cross and Poppy Well at The RCR Museum, November 2013.
148 PRO PATRIA 2013
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2642 3 RCR Royal Canadian Army
Cadets Corps, Petawawa
Capt S.D. Heidel, CD, Commanding Officer
By 2Lt A.L. Singleton, Unit Training Officer
Col W.J. Aitchison, OMM, CD, Colonel of the Regiment
of The RCR, the Reviewing Officer for the ACR.
Representatives of the 65 military museums in the country gathered
at Wolseley Barracks, in front of The RCR Cenotaph. May, 2013.
OMMC Award
The Organization of Military Museums in Canada held their 2013 conference in London,
ON. Representatives of 65 military museums from across the country, alongside individual
members of this professional association, gathered at Wolseley Barracks for several events,
including a visit to The RCR Museum and a service at The RCR Cenotaph situated by the
parade square. For being a good host and having a very hardworking military museum
staff, the annual award 2013 was presented to The RCR Museum.
Below: OMMC 2013 Annual Award for The RCR Museum, May 2013.
2642 – 3 RCR Royal Canadian Army
Cadet Corps (RCACC) has had an
exceptionally successful and rewarding
2013 training year. Corps enrolment
has almost doubled, beginning the year
with less than thirty cadets enrolled
and finishing with over fifty cadets on
strength.
2642 RCACC ended the 2102 training
year with the Annual Cadet Review (ACR)
Parade, a celebration and recognition of
all the accomplishments of the past year. Cadets and staff had the distinct honour of having
Col W.J. Aitchison, OMM, CD, Colonel of the Regiment of The RCR, attending as the
Reviewing Officer for the parade. Col Aitchison took the time to speak to the cadets on
parade and was presented with the very first 2642 RCACC Commanding Officer’s Coin.
Over the summer of 2013, cadets from 2642 traveled to Cadet Summer Training Centres
(CSTC) across Canada and the world. They trained in places as close as CSTC Connaught
and CSTC Blackdown, Ontario, to places as far as the Rocky Mountains, Alberta, and
Scotland, UK. They learned everything from advanced marksmanship, to expedition
training, to drill and ceremonial skills.
This year, cadets from 2642 competed in the Northern Ontario Area (NOA) Orienteering
Competition in Sudbury, Ontario, the Zone Cadet Marksmanship Competition and NOA
Band and Drill Competition in North Bay, Ontario, as well as both the NOA and Ontario
Provincial Cadet Biathlon Competitions in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. Yearly participation
in these competitions helps to promote sportsmanship, teamwork, self-discipline, and
physical fitness, as well as build self-esteem while providing personal challenge and
achievement opportunities for cadets.
This year’s third and fourth year cadets had the opportunity to train at Army Cadet
Expedition Centres in Gatineau Park, Québec and Bon Echo Provincial Park, Ontario.
Training at an Expedition Centre has been designed to provide Army Cadets with an
opportunity to develop expedition skills under the supervision and instruction of highly
qualified staff. Cadets taking part in this year’s expedition training learned skills such as
mountain biking, trekking, canoeing, advanced map-and-compass navigation skills, and
leadership. While both physically and mentally challenging, Expedition Centre Training
promotes self-confidence, physical fitness, leadership skills, and inspires a feeling of fun
and satisfaction in being a part of such an exciting and adventurous endeavour.
This past training year also included three field training exercises at Garrison Petawawa.
Exercise FALL WARRIOR, Exercise FROZEN ROYAL, and Exercise WAKING BEAR were
150 PRO PATRIA 2013
PRO PATRIA 2013 151
successful and greatly enjoyed by all who participated. These exercises
introduced the Corps’ twenty-one new cadets to the fundamentals of Army
Cadet field training and gave senior cadets an opportunity to lead and
mentor their fellow cadets. During all three exercises, highly experienced
Regular Force NCMs from 3 RCR and other units joined the cadets and CIC
officers to lend their expertise in field training.
The cadets of 2642 had the opportunity to visit 3 RCR for military
familiarization training this year. Officers and NCMs from the Battalion
were present to give lessons on Regimental history, specializations, and
day-to-day operations. 2642 is very proud of its affiliation with The Royal
Canadian Regiment, and looks forward to future visits and opportunities to
learn more about the Regiment.
2642 had the distinct honour this year of being inspected by the
Commanding Officer of the 3rd Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment,
LCol R. W. McBride, MSM, CD, during this year’s 2642 – 3 RCR Royal
Canadian Army Cadet Corps’ Badging Ceremony. After the inspection,
LCol McBride presented fourteen cadets with The RCR cap badge. This
honour is granted to second-year cadets and is worn as a symbol of the
Corps’ affiliation with The Regiment. This was LCol McBride’s first visit to
2642 since becoming the CO of 3 RCR, and he took the time to speak to
the cadets about his own time as an Army Cadet and what the program
has meant to him over the years.
Top left: LCol R.W.
McBride and CWO
K.M. Olstad inspect
cadets during the
2642 Badging
Ceremony.
Top right: Cadets
during a visit to
1 RCR Lines.
Bottom left:
Cadets learn about
Advanced Mountain
Operations during
the 3 RCR military
familiarization night.
Bottom right: Early
morning snowfall
during Exercise
FALL WARRIOR.
The cadets and staff of 2642 would like to thank The Royal Canadian
Regiment for all of its support over the past training year, as well as all the
officers and NCMs of Garrison Petawawa who have volunteered their time
and efforts to make this year a successful and rewarding experience for all.
152 PRO PATRIA 2013
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Departed Comrades of The RCR - 2013
Capt Rick Glen Dodson (Ret’d)
01 January 2013
Edmonton, AB
Cpl James Taylor (Ret’d)
08 January 2013
Chaswood, NS
Sgt William Joseph Daly (Ret’d)
09 January 2013
London, ON
MCpl William “Bill” French (Ret’d)
14 January 2013
Trenton, ON
Maj Herbert Russell Gardner, MC (Ret’d)
26 January 2013
Sidney, BC
Norman Budd
05 February 2013
Little Britain, ON
WO T.R. “Terry” Rice (Ret’d)
09 February 2013
London, ON
Kenneth J. Voll
11 February 2013
Kitchener, ON
Rev Ronald Joseph MacFarlane (Ret’d)
11 February 2013
Scarborough, ON
Cpl Malcolm “Leathereface” Neal (Ret’d)
13 February 2013
London, ON
Edward Omer Gatien
23 February 2013
Sudbury, ON
MCpl Dwayne Curtis Snook
24 February 2013
Barrie, ON
MWO James Cornelius McGuire (Ret’d)
27 February 2013
London, ON
Capt John David Lawley, Sr (Ret’d)
01 March 2013
West Lorne, ON
Jim Morrice
13 March 2013
London, ON
BGen Robert P. Alden, OMM (Ret’d)
12 April 2013
Kingston, ON
Cpl Lawrence “Larry” Nelson (Ret’d)
18 April 2013
Carleton Place, ON
Robert Duncan “Bob” Burns
19 April 2013
London, ON
Lt Harold “Shorty” Fairhead (Ret’d)
19 April 2013
Cowansville, QC
LCol Herbert George Cloutier, MC (Ret’d)
20 April 2013
Ottawa, ON
Maj Laurence Hugh O’Neill (Ret’d)
23 April 2013
Smiths Falls, ON
Al Cadieux
04 May 2013
Ottawa, ON
Maj John Scott (Ret’d)
04 May 2013
Edmonton, AB
MWO Lloyd Davis Crosby (Ret’d)
20 May 2013
Ottawa, ON
Freeman Oscar “Sandy” Sanford
01 June 2013
Wassis, NB
Glen W. Keenan
02 June 2013
Dartmouth, NS
Brian Douglas Horwill
12 June 2013
Petawawa, ON
James “Jim” Melsom
12 June 2013
Peace River, AB
Sgt R.M.L. “Bob” Jones (Ret’d)
02 July 2013
London, ON
LCol Edgar Herbert “Ed” Hollyer, MC (Ret’d)
04 July 2013
Ottawa, ON
BGen Stewart H. “Stew” Clarke (Ret’d)
05 July 2013
Ottawa, ON
MWO Wilford Joseph “Joe” Frost (Ret’d)
08 July 2013
Fredericton, NB
Capt William George “Bill” Callaway (Ret’d)
16 July 2013
Nanaimo, BC
Leslie F. “Bud” Walsh
18 July 2013
London, ON
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CWO Ronald O’Connell (Ret’d)
01 August 2013
Ottawa, ON
LCol Murray John M. Swan (Ret’d)
03 August 2013
Ottawa, ON
Lewis S. Tucker
03 August 2013
St. Philipp’s, NL
Sgt Gerald Clement Ekstrom (Ret’d)
05 August 2013
Ganonoque, ON
Kenneth Eldred Soper
09 August 2013
Toronto, ON
Charles Percy “Charlie” Penney
18 August 2013
Oromocto, NB
Donald S. “Dusty” Miller
01 September 2013
Kingston, ON
LGen John Elwood “Jack” Vance, CMM (Ret’d)
10 September 2013
Tweed, ON
James Archibald Jack
19 September 2013
Windsor, ON
CWO Vaughan Milton Cameron (Ret’d)
19 September 2013
Ottawa, ON
Capt David Wharry (Ret’d)
20 September 2013
London, ON
Capt William Frederick “Bill” Eberts (Ret’d)
02 October 2013
Fredericton, NB
Cpl Mathieu Serge Cossette
03 October 2013
Petawawa, ON
Luigi Rosetto
08 October 2013
Indonesia
Cpl Samuel Louis Lamanne (Ret’d)
20 October 2013
Ottawa, ON
Lester E. Jollimore
23 October 2013
London, ON
Thomas Cyril “Tom” Brown
24 October 2013
Fredericton, NB
Wilfred “Earl” Gay
03 November 2013
Petawawa, ON
Robert Joseph “Bob” Kelly
07 November 2013
London, ON
James Poirier
19 November 2013
Stoney Creek, ON
WO Michael Robert McNeil
27 November 2013
Petawawa, ON
WO Donald Neil “Don” Forbes (Ret’d)
29 November 2013
London, ON
David Allen “Dave” Beyea
29 November 2013
Victoria, BC
Maj Frank T. Nesbitt (Ret’d)
29 November 2013
Edmonton, AB
W0II Joseph Thomas Bowman (Ret’d)
03 December 2013
London, ON
PO2 William A. Dunsmore (Ret’d)
04 December 2013
Lumsden, SK
MGen Dan Gordon Loomis, OMM, MC (Ret’d)
05 December 2013
Ottawa, ON
Martin Dennis “Mark” Bailey
05 December 2013
London, ON
Patrick “Paddy” Hatfield (Ret’d)
09 December 2013
Courtenay, BC
Edward George “Ted” Pope
11 December 2013
London, ON
Selby Pack “Stash” Taylor
12 December 2013
London, ON
WO Donald Paul Mattocks (Ret’d)
18 December 2013
Barrie, ON
Capt Gordon William MacKenzie (Ret’d)
23 December 2013
Niagara Falls, ON
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Cpl Clyde Wilson (Ret’d)
23 December 2013
London, ON
William John Limebeer
24 December 2013
Guelph, ON
Gerald Joseph Flint
26 December 2013
Kingston, ON
Kenneth “Ken” Cooper
28 December 2013
Kingston, ON
Henry Earnest St. Amant
30 December 2013
Parry Sound, ON
Robert Joseph Olivier “Bob” Lemaire
30 December 2013
Kelowna, BC
We Will Remember Them
They went with songs to the battle, they were young,
Straight of limb, true of eye, steady and aglow.
They were staunch to the end against odds uncounted;
They fell with their faces to the foe.
The Forgotten War
By Colonel W.J. Aitchison, OMM, CD, Colonel of the Regiment
Bob (Tank) Lemaire died last week at the age of 82. Russ
Gardner died in January a year ago. Between the two of
them, we lost Shorty Fairhead, Herb Cloutier, Ed Hollyer
and Dan Loomis – all of them about the same age as Bob.
Six men with something in common, which was that they all
served as officers (most as platoon commanders) in Korea.
More remarkable is that four of them (Gardner, Cloutier,
Hollyer and Loomis) had been awarded the Military Cross
for their bravery and leadership in that “forgotten war”.
I, along with many others of my “Cold War” generation, was
privileged to serve with or at least meet every one of these
“Tank” Lemaire
men, and am therefore perhaps more deeply touched by
their passing than might be some others.
Robert Joseph Olivier “Bob”
Inevitably, we die – it’s the only “exit strategy” from life. Nonetheless, when six deaths
occur from such a small cohort (officers of The RCR who served in Korea) in a single year, we
need to remember who they were, what they did and the fact that their generation is being
whittled away at a most alarming rate. If I were to expand the “cohort” to include soldiers
of that (undeclared) war, the numbers would be even more shocking.
Maj Herbert Russell “Russ” Gardner, MC, on the left.
They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old:
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun and in the morning
We will remember them.
Laurence Binyon
My point. Theirs was the
experience of which I speak when I
talk about the current generation’s
“vicarious” connection to the
history and traditions of our
Regiment. When men such as
these (and others whose passing
I have not mentioned or am
unaware of) die, every one of them
takes with him a small piece of the
hoard of regimental treasure. As
they added to our history, so have
they removed from it in making
future vicarious connections no
longer possible.
Don’t miss an opportunity to
connect with their generation.
It is, as I noted, being rapidly
diminished by poor health and
death.
Those who fought in Korea still
156 PRO PATRIA 2013
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consider that they did not receive the attention their actions merited – it is the war that was
dubbed “The Forgotten War”. Whether or not they are correct, it remains to us to ensure
that while the war may have been forgotten – the heroes are not.
Major-General Dan
Gordon Loomis,
OMM, MC, CD
A
Regimental icon, who can also be fairly described as a Regimental giant, died in 2013.
Major-General Dan Gordon Loomis, OMM, MC, CD (Ret’d) passed away in hospital
at Ottawa, 05 December 2013. He was 84 years of age. As a platoon commander with
1st Battalion The Royal Canadian Regiment (1 RCR) in Korea, 1952-1953, Major-General
Loomis was decorated for gallantry in action and was awarded the Military Cross (MC).
Later he rose to become Commanding Officer of 1 RCR, 1969-1971. From this time he
emerged as a key senior Regimental leader and was one of the principal architects of the
modern organization of The Royal Canadian Regiment.
Dan Gordon Loomis was born at Montreal, Quebec in 1929 and eventually attended Lower
Canada College in Montreal. His first experience of soldiering occurred in 1944 during the
Second World War when he enlisted in the Cameron Highlanders of Ottawa as a 15 year
old Boy Soldier. Major-General Loomis attended Royal Roads Military College (RRMC) in
Victoria, BC from 1948-1950 and Royal Military College (RMC) at Kingston, Ontario from
1950-1952. He graduated from RMC in 1952 as a Rhodes Scholar. In 1952 Major-General
Loomis commissioned as an officer into 1 RCR. He subsequently served as a platoon
commander in “C” Company, 1 RCR in Korea from April 1952 - March 1953. On the night of
27 September 1952 Lieutenant Loomis led a patrol of “C” Company men against Chinese
positions on Hill 227, a powerful enemy bastion. During the patrol contact was made with
the enemy. In the short but savage engagement that ensued, grenades and small arms fire
were exchanged at short range. Lieutenant Loomis and three of his men were wounded.
Clockwise from top left:: Lt Harold “Shorty” Fairhead on far left of picture.
LCol Herbert George “Herb” Cloutier, MC.
LCol Edgar Herbert “Ed” Hollyer, MC.
MGen Dan Loomis, OMM, MC.
Lt Dan Loomis (seated in back of jeep
158 PRO PATRIA 2013
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the right)2013 in Korea, 159
1952.
PRO on
PATRIA
In Cyprus with UNFICYP, 1970. LCol D.G. Loomis, seated at centre, is the CO of 1 RCR.
Regimental officer: Dan Loomis in Patrol Dress.
Dan Loomis received severe shrapnel wounds to his legs and hips (debilitating injuries from
which he suffered for the rest of his life). Nevertheless, under the leadership of Lieutenant
Loomis the “C” Company patrol carried the fight to the enemy, eliminating a Chinese
machine-gun while killing its crew. For his gallantry and leadership in this action Loomis
was subsequently awarded the Military Cross. He was one of only 33 Canadian officers to
receive the MC during the Korean War.
Following his return to Canada from Korea, Dan Loomis attended Queen’s University in
Kingston, graduating in 1954 with a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Chemical Engineering.
During 1954-1955 he returned to Regimental service with 1 RCR, first at Wolseley Barracks
in London, Ontario, then at Fort York, Soest, West Germany. Remaining in Germany,
Lieutenant Loomis was employed as a staff officer at the Canadian Brigade Headquarters
during 1955-1956. Promoted to Captain in 1956, he attended the Royal Military College
of Science in England from 1956-1958. Captain Loomis was to eventually graduate at the
top of his class receiving a further science degree. Not surprisingly with his background
in science, Captain Loomis next served as a Technical Staff Officer at the Joint Nuclear,
Biological, Chemical Warfare School at Camp Borden, Ontario during 1958-1959. From
1959-1961 he attended the Canadian Army Staff College in Kingston. Promoted to the rank
of Major, Dan Loomis commanded a rifle company in 1 RCR from 1961-1962, first at Camp
Ipperwash, Ontario, then at Fort York in Soest, West Germany. From 1962-1964 Major
Loomis was employed as an Operations Staff Officer at British 1st Corps Headquarters
(British Army of the Rhine). Returning to Canada in 1964 he was then a staff officer at
Mobile Command (Army) Headquarters. Promoted to Lieutenant-Colonel, Dan Loomis
attended Queen’s University, 1967-1969, graduating with a Masters degree.
Lieutenant-Colonel D.G. Loomis would now command 1st Battalion The Royal Canadian
Regiment from 15 January 1969 - 21 February 1971. Concurrently he would serve as
Home Station Commander. During his tenure of command 1 RCR mounted two significant
operations. The first was Operation SNOWGOOSE 13, a Battalion deployment to Cyprus
on UN peacekeeping duties from March-October 1970. Returning from Cyprus, 1 RCR
was flung almost immediately into the FLQ Crisis (also referred to as the October Crisis),
participating in Operation GINGER, an internal security operation designed to apprehend
160 PRO PATRIA 2013
a potential insurrection instigated by FLQ terrorists in
LCol Loomis, front row far left, attending
the province of Quebec. In addition to commanding 1
the REC in Petawawa, 11 Dec 1970.
RCR at this time, Lieutenant-Colonel Loomis also acted
as the Chief of Staff of the Western Quebec Sector
during the FLQ Crisis. Dan Loomis would eventually
write an account of the Canadian army’s role in the FLQ Crisis entitled, “Not Much Glory:
Quelling the FLQ,” published in 1984.
Following the period during which he commanded 1 RCR, D.G. Loomis was employed at
NDHQ in a staff capacity from September 1971 - November 1972. Immediately following
this he served as Deputy Commander and Chief of Staff of the Canadian Contingent,
serving at Saigon in Vietnam as international military observers and monitors during the
climactic phase of the Vietnam conflict, 1972-1973. Dan Loomis then served as a Special
Policy Advisor at NDHQ from 1973-1974. Eventually attaining the rank of Major-General,
he would subsequently hold a myriad of important posts, including: Chief of Staff Mobile
Command HQ; Commander C.A.S.T. Combat Group and CFB Petawawa; and NDHQ
Chief of Programme. Following retirement Major-General Loomis served as a seniorlevel management consultant and advisor to, among others, the Treasury Board, the
Department of External Affairs, and various private sector entities. Major-General D.G.
Loomis is certainly one of our most important Regimental leaders. His importance to our
Regimental development in the modern era is absolutely fundamental. A published author
of numerous books and articles, Dan Loomis was a soldier scholar who was one of the
foremost Canadian military theorists of the post-Second World War era.
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Lieutenant-General John
Elwood “Jack” Vance,
CMM, CD (Ret’d)
Lieutenant-General John Elwood “Jack” Vance,
CMM, CD (Ret’d) passed away peacefully, at
Tweed, Ontario on Tuesday, 10 September 2013.
Lieutenant-General Jack Vance was 80 years of
age. Lieutenant-General Jonathan H. Vance,
Deputy Commander Allied Joint Force Command
at Naples, Italy, and the Senior Serving Royal, is the
son of Lieutenant-General Jack Vance.
Lieutenant-General Jack Vance was a legend in his
own lifetime and will be remembered, along with
a very small handful of others, as one who had a
transformational effect upon The Royal Canadian
Regiment, who recast the structure of the Regiment
and insured its well-being for generations to come.
His name will forever be mentioned in the same
breath as those of George Joseph Maunsell,
William Dillon Otter, Lawrence Buchan, Milton F.
Gregg, Eric Snow and Daniel Charles Spry. He will surely also be remembered as a man
of indomitable character, uncompromising integrity and outstanding intellect. Jack Vance
was born into difficult times on 28 July 1933, near Tweed in Hungerford County, Ontario.
His life course was set in September 1952 when he enrolled at Royal Military College,
Kingston. Lieutenant-General Vance attended RMC from September 1952 - June 1956. He
completed Phases One and Two of Officer Training at the Royal Canadian School of Infantry
at Camp Borden in 1953 and in Meaford in 1954 respectively. Jack Vance completed
Phase Three at Fort York, Soest, West Germany in 1955 as a platoon commander with 2nd
Battalion The Royal Canadian Regiment. He was commissioned as a Lieutenant in 1956
upon graduation from RMC. From June 1956 - September 1957 he was posted with 2 RCR
at Wolseley Barracks, London, Ontario, where he served with A Company in 1956 and then
as Anti-Tank Platoon Commander and as Para Officer in Support Company in 1957.
Lieutenant Vance attended the University of Toronto from September 1957 - June 1958
and obtained a degree in history. He then served at Camp Ipperwash, Ontario with 1st
Battalion The Royal Canadian Regiment (with Lieutenant-Colonel Frank “Klink” Klenavic
as Commanding Officer) from August 1958 - June 1960, first as a platoon commander
and then as Intelligence Officer. Promoted to Captain, Jack Vance was posted to Army
Headquarters in Ottawa in June 1960, serving as a staff officer in the Adjutant-General’s
Branch until September 1963. From February 1961, Captain Vance served as the Personal
Assistant to the Adjutant-General. He subsequently attended a two year course at Staff
162 PRO PATRIA 2013
Top left: LGen J.E. Vance in the field.
Middle: Photo 3: LGen J.E. Vance,
CMM, CD, Vice Chief of Defence Staff.
Top right: LGen and Mrs. Vance
greet the Queen Mother.
College in Kingston from September 1963 - June 1965. In
June 1965 Captain Vance was posted to 2 RCR at Wolseley
Barracks, becoming OC of “C” Company. 2 RCR, commanded
by Lieutenant-Colonel J.B.J. Archambault, rotated to Fort York,
Soest, West Germany in November 1965. Captain Vance was
promoted to the rank of Major in December 1965. Major Vance
remained with 2 RCR until June 1967.
From June 1967 - August 1968 he held the appointment of Brigade Major of 3 Canadian
Infantry Brigade at Gagetown, New Brunswick. Promoted to Lieutenant-Colonel, he served
as the SSO Training at Force Mobile Command (FMC, i.e. the Canadian Army) HQ at St.
Hubert, Quebec from August 1968 - 1971. In 1971 Lieutenant-Colonel Vance assumed
command of a mechanized infantry battalion at Baden-Soellingen, West Germany:
3 Mechanized Commando (3 Mech Cdo). 3 Mech Cdo was a hybrid unit consisting of
soldiers from both The RCR and the PPCLI that existed from 28 June 1970 - 13 July 1977.
Lieutenant-Colonel Vance remained in command until August 1972 when he was promoted
to Colonel and posted to FMC HQ. Here Colonel Vance was DCOS Training until 1973. He
was posted to NDHQ, Ottawa as Director Indiv Training from 1973-1975.
Colonel Vance was promoted to Brigadier-General in 1975 and remained at NDHQ
as Director-General Recruiting, Education and Training until July 1976. Posted to Lahr,
Germany, Brigadier-General Vance commanded 4 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group
at Lahr and Baden-Soellingen from July 1976 - July 1978. Returning once more to FMC
HQ he served in the pivotal role of COS Ops from July 1978 - July 1979. Brigadier-General
Vance attended National Defence College from July 1979 - May 1980 and was promoted
to the rank of Major-General on this latter date. From May 1980 to May 1983 Major-General
Vance was, initially, chairman of the Unification T.F. Review and then C Postings, Careers
and Senior Appointments at NDHQ. During this time the present Colonel of the Regiment,
Colonel W.J. Aitchison, was the staff officer to General Vance. In May 1983, less than 12
years after assuming command of a battalion in Germany, he was promoted to the rank
of Lieutenant-General. Still at NDHQ, Lieutenant-General Vance was responsible for CF
Personnel as Assistant Deputy Minister (ADM) Personnel from May 1983 - June 1985. In
1983 Lieutenant-General J.E. Vance was invested in the Order of Military Merit, grade of
Commander (CMM). As of June 1985 he became Vice Chief of Defence Staff (VCDS), the
second highest appointment in the Canadian Armed Forces. Lieutenant-General Vance
would continue to serve as VCDS until 1988.
Lieutenant-General Jack Vance would retire from the CF in 1988, at the age of 55, having
completed 36 years of dedicated service. He had already made a huge contribution to
PRO PATRIA 2013 163
Lieutenant-Colonel
Herbert George
“Herb” Cloutier,
Spending time with a family member.
The Colonel of the Regiment.
Country, Army and Regiment, but his service to the
larger community and indeed to The Royal Canadian
Regiment was far from over. Shortly after retirement
Lieutenant-General Vance accepted the position of
Colonel Commandant of the Royal Canadian Army
Cadet Corps, an appointment he exercised from 01
September 1989 - 1992. For the rest of his life he
would continue to associate his name and provide
support to the Cadet movement. Not surprisingly,
Lieutenant-General Vance was honoured with the
appointment of Colonel Commandant of the Royal
Canadian Infantry Corps from 1992-1995. With
his many years of distinguished service in higher
command and a reputation for wisdom and integrity,
he was named the Senior Military Advisor to the Privy
Council for the Somalia Inquiry.
L
LGen Jack Vance briefing at the
ROIC in London, ON, Dec 2011.
Most fittingly, Lieutenant-General J.E. Vance, CMM
CD, was appointed Colonel of the Regiment of
The Royal Canadian Regiment on 01 July 1997.
This was indeed a well-deserved honour. During
the tenure of his appointment he was an active
and inspirational Colonel of the Regiment. In the
Cold War/Peacekeeping era his positive influence With son LGen Jonathan Vance.
on developments within the Regiment was greatly
significant. During the 1970s and 1980s he had worked tirelessly with Major-General
Dan Loomis to reform and adapt the structure of The Royal Canadian Regiment. The
transformation wrought by Lieutenant-General Vance insured that the Regiment could
face the future and continue to flourish. The Royal Canadian Regiment as it is today is in
large part a reflection of the vision of this great man. In his life he became an embodiment
of all those qualities and virtues that make our Regiment great. In describing LieutenantGeneral Jack Vance the final words will be to his son, Lieutenant-General Jonathan Vance.
In accepting the Vimy Award in 2011 he said of and to his father:
“…I could not have asked for a better role model of leadership and wisdom than you.
Many of us curse when we start to sound like our parents…well, just to let you know, more
often than not I gave silent thanks…Thanks Dad.”
164 PRO PATRIA 2013
MC, CD
ieutenant-Colonel Herbert George “Herb” Cloutier, MC, CD, a veteran of the Korean
War and a true Regimental hero, passed away on 20 April 2013 at Ottawa. He was
serving as a junior officer with 1st Battalion The Royal Canadian Regiment in1950, but had
been a pre-WWII Permanent Force soldier and veteran of the Second World War. Herb
Cloutier deployed to Korea with 1 RCR in March 1952. While the Battalion was located
at embattled Hill 355 (Kowang-San), a new rifle company, “E” or “Easy” Company was
raised on 06 September 1952. Captain Cloutier was named the Officer Commanding this
company. He would subsequently play a significant role in the epic Battle of Kowang-San,
22-24 October 1952. He led his Company with courage and coolness and was an inspiring
presence throughout. Immediately following the desperate fighting in the area defended
by “B” Company, Capt Cloutier organized two groups to make contact with the enemy on
“B” Company’s front and determine his strength and intentions. He was subsequently cited
for gallantry in action and awarded the Military Cross. The citation reads as follows.
AWARD of THE MILITARY CROSS
To ZP 2810 Captain Herbert George CLOUTIER
1st Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment
On 23 October, 1952, “E” Company of 1st Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment,
commanded by Captain Cloutier, was subjected to an intense enemy artillery and
mortar bombardment which preceded an assault on the company on the right flank. The
bombardment continued on “E” company though lifting from the company under attack.
“E” company had been subjected to heavy shelling for a period of four days, with shattering
effect on the defences and the men in them. The company area was seriously and extensively
damaged in the bombardment on 23
The company commanders of 1 RCR at the time of the battle
October, and movement of any kind was
of Kowang-San. Capt Herb Cloutier is on the far right.
extremely hazardous. In many places
defensive cover had been completely
demolished.
All
communications
to the company under assault were
severed. Although intense mortaring
continued, Captain Cloutier placed
himself in a position from which he
reported progress of the battle to his
commanding officer. For some time he
PRO PATRIA 2013 165
was the only source of vital information. In spite of the demoralizing effect of four days
heavy shelling, culminating in an intense bombardment, Captain Cloutier was able to
organize two groups from his company to probe the area which had been overrun by the
enemy. This action, and the information obtained therefrom, was directly responsible for
the success of the counter-attack which restored the situation. Captain Cloutier’s coolness,
steadiness and determination was an inspiration to the men of his company who stood
fast during the extreme heavy enemy fire before and during the attack. The retention of
his company position was most important to the success of the counter-attack. There is no
doubt that this officer’s initiative and determination enabled the situation to be restored in
a relatively short period with a minimum of casualties.
Lieutenant-Colonel Edgar
Herbert “Ed” Hollyer
MC, CD
Lieutenant-Colonel Edgar Herbert “Ed” Hollyer,
MC, CD (Ret’d), a Regimental icon and hero,
passed away early on the morning of 04 July
2013 at Ottawa. Born at Toronto in 1922 he was
91 years of age.
In April 1953 Captain Cloutier returned from Korea to Canada with 1 RCR. He was
subsequently posted to 2 RCR and served with that Battalion at Wolseley Barracks at
London, Ontario in the late 1950s. Major H.G. Cloutier, MC, CD was part of the ceremonial
events involving 2 RCR in 1959. Major Cloutier was one of 12 Guard Commanders on 02
July 1959 at Wolseley Barracks during a Trooping of the Colours by all three battalions of
the Regiment, including 3rd Battalion The Royal Canadian Regiment (London and Oxford
Fusiliers). On this occasion, HRH Prince Philip presented both 1 RCR and 3 RCR new
Colours. He eventually attained the rank of Lieutenant-Colonel before retirement. Herb
Cloutier also had a brother, Captain Earl Cloutier, who served in The RCR and now lives in
Kingston, Ontario.
Ed Hollyer’s name will be forever linked to one
of The Royal Canadian Regiment’s most epic
battles, the defence of Hill 187 on the night
of 02 – 03 May 1953, during the Korean War.
He played a most noteworthy role in the battle
and, as a result of his outstanding leadership
and courage throughout the engagement,
was subsequently decorated with the Military
Cross. Notwithstanding his heroism in Korea,
Lieutenant-Colonel Hollyer’s entire life was
devoted to the principle of service before self.
Capt Herb Cloutier, on left, at ceremony
where he was awarded the MC.
Not only a veteran of the Korean War, he also
served his country during the Second World
War. Ed Hollyer enlisted in the Royal Canadian Air Force in September 1942 and remained
in the RCAF until November 1944. Although anxious to be assigned to air crew duty he
was eventually thwarted by problems related to his eyesight. Transferring into Safety
Equipment, Ed Hollyer became a parachute rigger at a flight training school in Oshawa.
He was desperate to get overseas and into the war, and was willing to try anything to
accomplish this end. On one occasion Ed even made an illegal parachute jump when he
went up one day with one of the flight instructors. He was promptly arrested by the Military
Police and then spent the night in jail before being returned to his duties as a rigger. Sadly,
while serving in the RCAF, Ed lost a brother, Percy. Percy was a gunner aboard an RCAF
Halifax Bomber that was shot down over Germany in June 1943.
LCol Edgar Herbert “Ed” Hollyer, MC, CD.
Ed Hollyer eventually transferred as a Private into the Canadian Army in January 1945. After
undertaking basic and advanced infantry training at Camp Borden, as well as jungle warfare
training, Private Hollyer was posted to The Royal Canadian Regiment. With the war in
Europe coming to a close, he had volunteered to serve in the Pacific against the Japanese.
Private Hollyer joined the 1st Battalion, 1st Regiment (6th Canadian Infantry Division),
which had been created on 01 August 1945 as part of the Canadian Army Pacific Force.
However, Imperial Japan surrendered after atomic bombs were dropped on Hiroshima and
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3 RCR departed Petawawa by train for Seattle on 27 February 1953. On 23 March the
Battalion would reach Pusan, South Korea, and as of 25 March had affected a handover
with the outgoing 1 RCR. After a period in reserve, 3 RCR rotated into the front lines (known
as the Jamestown Line) on the night of 19-20 April, occupying defensive positions on and
around Hill 187. Ed Hollyer’s 7 Platoon fatefully took charge of a defended location on
Hill 97. In less than a fortnight the unblooded 3rd Battalion would be locked in the most
desperate and bloody battle fought by Canadian troops throughout the entire Korean War.
The Corporals’ Mess of The RCR in 1948.
Nagasaki shortly afterwards. The Canadian Army
Pacific Force never deployed to the Far East and
was soon disbanded.
Ed Hollyer with his father in 1948.
On 27 September 1945 the 1st Battalion, 1st
Regiment was re-designated as the 2nd Battalion
The Royal Canadian Regiment and temporarily
stationed at Barriefield, Ontario. In November the
Battalion was moved to more permanent quarters
at Brockville, Ontario and was finally re-designated again as The Royal Canadian Regiment
on 01 October 1946. Ed Hollyer remained
throughout with The RCR, rising steadily through
the ranks until he became a Sergeant. On 01
May 1949 The Royal Canadian Regiment was
officially designated as a parachute unit of the
Canadian Army Active Force. Sergeant Hollyer
soon qualified as a parachutist.
The outbreak of the Korean War on 25 June 1950 would mark a turning point in his life.
The RCR would soon become a multi-battalion infantry regiment. Sergeant Hollyer initially
remained with his parent battalion, which had been re-designated from The RCR to the 1st
Battalion The Royal Canadian Regiment on 09 August 1950. The wartime expansion of the
Regiment created opportunities for keen, dedicated soldiers like Ed Hollyer. In 1951 he
was accepted for commissioning and became an officer.
3rd Battalion The Royal Canadian Regiment was created, specifically for service in Korea,
on 10 January 1951. Second Lieutenant Hollyer would eventually be posted to 3 RCR as
a platoon commander. In Korea he would gain renown as the commander of 7 Platoon,
Charlie Company.
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In late April 1953, many factors pointed to an imminent Chinese attack on or in the vicinity
of Hill 187. Enemy artillery and mortar fire was increasingly keying on Charlie Company in
the days prior to the attack that would occur on the night of 02 – 03 May. Most alarmingly,
Chinese patrols had been cutting gaps in the wire covering the approaches to the
Company’s lines. The enemy intent was to isolate and overwhelm the Charlie Company
defensive positions on Hills 97 and 123; inflict maximum casualties and damage, taking as
many prisoners as possible; and hold the captured ground long enough to demonstrate
Chinese offensive power. The attacking Chinese force consisted of at least 400 men.
Just before midnight on 02 May from his position on Hill 97, Ed Hollyer, commander of 7
Platoon, could see the Chinese assault groups formed up inside the minefield, obviously
preparing to attack. His platoon was the most exposed and had borne the brunt of recent
enemy shelling. There were only two solidly constructed bunkers in the platoon’s area and
the wire obstacles to the front had all but disappeared. His platoon had only two machineguns that were effectively sited. At 2400 Hours Chinese shelling and mortaring of Charlie
Company dramatically increased to a crescendo. Up to three shells were bursting every
second. Soldiers hurriedly had to take cover in the back of their trenches. Heavy machineguns now began to rake 7 Platoon’s lines. Even as the enemy shells and mortar rounds
exploded throughout 7 Platoon’s area, the Chinese storming parties surged forward.
The Chinese curtain of fire was now lifted to the rear as the Chinese swarmed into the 7
Platoon trenches. Within seconds 8 Platoon was also under attack, many of its trenches
being overrun. The Chinese moved along the trenches, using grenades to silence the
Canadian defenders. Those concussed by the grenades were quickly taken prisoner by
the enemy snatch parties. At
one point Private Greenway
2Lt Ed Hollyer on his way
of 8 Platoon saw six Chinese
to Korea, March 1953.
soldiers moving along the top
of a communication trench; he
opened fire with his Sten gun
killing three. The three who
survived dropped grenades
into the trench wounding
several Canadians.
Land line between 7 Platoon
and Charlie Company HQ had
been destroyed by Chinese
fire. However, through an
attached
signals
officer,
Lieutenant Laurie G. Cote, who
PRO PATRIA 2013 169
Some of the heroes of the battle of Hill 187.
2Lt Ed Hollyer, third from the left, was awarded
the MC for his heroic actions at Hill 187.
Chinese were rolling their dead and wounded over the lip of the hill where litter bearers
were hauling them away. I returned to pass a situation report back, but was unable to
establish communications. If Battalion H.Q. could have been informed at this point, a
counter-attack would probably have been successful and a number of prisoners taken. A
signaller was dispatched from the bunker with the task of trying to make contact.”
Second Lieutenant Hollyer took the opportunity to check on the state of his men. Including
himself, there were only eight left. 7 Platoon’s trenches, fighting bays and bunkers had
been all but destroyed. At 0130 Hours, Hollyer contacted the OC of Charlie Company,
Captain Mullin, and requested permission to withdraw 200 yards to 8 Platoon’s position.
Noting that numbers of Chinese were now starting to withdraw from Hill 97, Hollyer further
called for artillery fire on the forward slopes of the feature. Using this fire mission as cover,
Hollyer and his men now withdrew to the opposite flank of Hill 97. By 0145 Hours Hollyer
led the remnants of 7 Platoon into the 8 Platoon lines.
had a wireless radio, Second Lieutenant Ed Hollyer directed the close-in friendly artillery
fire. Simultaneously, Hollyer fought off assaulting Chinese with hand grenades. Despite the
reactive Canadian defensive fire, the Chinese, accepting heavy casualties, continued to
press home their attacks, swarming over the positions of 7 and 8 Platoon. The advancing
Chinese cleared trenches and fire bays with grenades and satchel charges, killing many
Canadians; following after the bombing parties, the assaulting Chinese infantry took many
dazed and wounded Canadians prisoner. The situation was desperate on Hill 97 as the
Chinese now overran 7 Platoon. At the moment of supreme crisis, Ed Hollyer now calmly
called down artillery fire on his own position. Word was quickly passed for the survivors
of 7 Platoon to take cover in the bunkers. The Canadian and Commonwealth gunners
unleashed a devastating concentration of 3,400 shells. Within minutes an overwhelming
storm of artillery, mortar, tank and machine-gun fire swept over Hill 97 and the approaches
to the Charlie Company positions.
The tipping point in the battle had clearly arrived. Higher Chinese headquarters were
pressing the raiding force to continue the attack. However, despite early success at Hill
97, the Chinese had suffered very heavy casualties and their attack had clearly bogged
down. Local commanders on and around Hill 187 were urging a withdrawal. Ed Hollyer,
at about 0100 Hours, now requested a suspension of the bombardment of Hill 97 by 81st
Field Regiment.
“At one point during the shelling, I asked for it to be lifted to investigate the situation. The
enemy had sustained heavy casualties, the trenches being literally filled with them. The
170 PRO PATRIA 2013
Ed Hollyer thereafter reached the Charlie Company Command Post. He assured the CO
over the radio that the Chinese main force was indeed withdrawing and that a fighting
patrol would be able to retake the position. Campbell ordered Hollyer to take 20 men from
Able Company to secure 7 Platoon’s area and evacuate casualties. Tanks from B Squadron,
Lord Strathcona’s Horse provided direct fire support as Second Lieutenant Hollyer reentered 7 Platoon’s position. Immediately the detachment came under sustained, heavy
mortar fire and was pinned down until dawn. The Chinese were covering the withdrawal of
their attacking force. Eventually, at 0400 Hours, Dog Company, 3 RCR moved to relieve the
remnants of Charlie Company, occupying the 8 and 9 Platoon positions, on the east slope
of Hill 97 and on Hill 123 respectively.
The battle at Hill 187, 02 — 03 May 1953, was Canada’s bloodiest engagement of the
Korean War. It was also the last significant action fought between Canadian and Communist
Chinese forces. The peace talks at Panmunjom would continue and an armistice agreement
was finally signed on 27 July 1953. The Battalion would remain in Korea until the spring
of 1954. Ed Hollyer was very quickly recognized for his valour and calm, yet decisive
leadership during the battle of Hill 187. He was awarded the Military Cross. In part Second
Lieutenant Hollyer’s citation reads:
“There is no doubt that that this officer’s initiative, determination and skill in fighting,
coupled with his inspiring leadership and complete disregard for his own personal safety,
contributed beyond measure to the defeat of the enemy and the success of the entire
battle.”
Back in Canada, 3rd Battalion The Royal Canadian Regiment was reduced to nil strength
and transformed into 1st Battalion The Canadian Guards on 21 July 1954. Remaining
with his Battalion, Captain Ed Hollyer, MC, now became Adjutant of the 1st Battalion
The Canadian Guards. He would eventually be posted to a staff position at Regina,
Saskatchewan where he took the opportunity to attend Russian language courses at the
University of Saskatchewan. Ed Hollyer subsequently attended the Canadian Forces School
of Languages where he would qualify as a Russian linguist after one year. Thereafter in 1958
PRO PATRIA 2013 171
he transferred into the Canadian
Army Intelligence Corps. Ed
Hollyer served as an Intelligence
Officer with the Royal Canadian
Signal Corps Electronic Warfare
Squadron at Kingston, Ontario
from 1958 – 59. He was then
attached to the British Army’s
Royal Signal Corps from 1959
– 1961, serving at Government
Communications Headquarters
in Cheltenham, England and in
Germany. From 1961 – 64, Ed
Hollyer was the Chief Instructor
at the Canadian School of Military
Intelligence, after which he
served on attachment with the
U.S. Defence Intelligence Agency,
at Washington, DC, until 1967.
Promoted to Lieutenant-Colonel
in 1968 he was responsible
for Intelligence Production —
Warsaw Pact Forces until his
retirement from the military
in 1973. Following retirement
from the service, LieutenantColonel Hollyer remained active
in the intelligence field, taking
a position with the Director
General Intelligence and Security
until 1984. He was in turn a
Coordinator
of
Intelligence
Production, a Strategic Analyst,
and finally Special Advisor to the
Chief of Intelligence and Security.
L
ieutenant Harold George “Shorty” Fairhead (Ret’d), a veteran of the Korean War,
passed away on 19 April 2013 at Cowansville, Quebec. Born at Montreal on 23 April
1926, he was a resident of Knowlton, Quebec and was in his 87th year. Lieutenant Fairhead
served with the 1st Battalion The Royal Canadian Regiment both before and during the
Battalion’s combat tour in Korea from March 1952 - April 1953. He also fought in the epic
Battle of Kowang-San, at Hill 355, from 22-24 October 1952. While in Korea with 1 RCR
he served in two different rifle companies. First with “D” (“Dog”) Company, as Platoon
Commander of 10 Platoon; and then with “C” (“Charles”) Company, Platoon Commander
of 7 Platoon. During the battle of Kowang-San, Lieutenant Fairhead was with 7 Platoon,
“C” Company. He was wounded in action on two different occasions, quite severely during
the latter incident. A distinguished platoon commander, Harold G. Fairhead was also
Mentioned in Despatches for saving the lives of several of his men during a vicious, nighttime close quarter battle with the enemy. Like so many of our veterans, he was very reticent
throughout his life about his own heroism.
Top: The medals of LCol Ed Hollyer, MC, CD
Above: Ed Hollyer as an Intelligence Officer.
Ed Hollyer lived with his family in the community of Kanata, Ontario from 1967 onwards.
He was very active as a civic volunteer for which he received the Centennial Medallion.
Lieutenant-Colonel Hollyer was active in both The RCR Association (Ottawa Branch) and
the Korea Veterans Association (KVA Unit # 7). All Royal Canadians will mourn the loss of
this gallant soldier and great Canadian; at Hill 187 he was one of a band of very brave men
who wrote a glorious chapter in our Regiment’s history.
172 PRO PATRIA 2013
Lt. Harold George
“Shorty” Fairhead (Ret’d)
Lieutenant Fairhead was first wounded in action on 13 June 1952. At this time the Battalion
was occupying part of the Kansas Line, east of the Samichon River, which included Hill
355. It was a time of increased patrol activity against the Chinese. On the night of 13 June,
Lieutenant Harold Fairhead was leading such a patrol, during which contact was made with
the enemy. Fairhead’s patrol suffered three casualties at this time, himself being one of the
wounded. On 13 January 1953 Lieutenant Fairhead was wounded again, under the most
heroic of circumstances. On the night of 13 January 1953, he led a platoon-sized patrol out
into No Man’s Land, directly towards the enemy trenches. At this point, 1 RCR was located
in an embattled area known as, “The Hook.” After crawling stealthily for an intense period
of two hours, Shorty Fairhead and his men closed in on the Chinese position. Despite
their caution, the patrol was heard by enemy sentries who now primed and threw several
grenades. One well thrown grenade landed in the midst of Lieutenant Fairhead and his
men. Reacting without hesitation to protect his men, and with total disregard for his own
safety, Shorty Fairhead rushed the live grenade and kicked it away from his soldiers. He was
severely wounded when the grenade detonated. As well, ten other members of the patrol
were wounded, but none fatally thanks to Shorty’s selfless act. Lieutenant Harold Fairhead
would be Mentioned in Despatches for his act of heroism. He was eventually medically
evacuated to Japan and finally to Canada. Lieutenant Fairhead then underwent extensive
and ongoing reconstructive surgery at the Royal Victoria Hospital in Montreal.
As a young man, prior to his military service, Harold Fairchild had attended McGill University
at Montreal. Naturally gifted, he became well known as a university athlete. Harold gained
renown as a player for the McGill University Redmen football team, from 1948-1950. The
McGill Redmen (named after the red jersey they wore) was one of Canada’s most historic
football clubs, dating back to 1874. It speaks volumes about Harold Fairhead that at just
this point in his life, with a bright future beckoning, he chose instead to serve his country
PRO PATRIA 2013 173
on the battlefield. It is important to note that Harold Fairhead had already rallied to the
defence of his country as a younger man. He had served in the Royal Canadian Air Force
during the Second World War.
Lieutenant Harold G. Fairhead (Ret’d) attended the 1 RCR Kowang San Day commemoration
that took place on Friday, 19 October 2012 at Petawawa, Ontario. Mr. Fairhead and his
wife, Eleanor, drove to Petawawa from their home in Knowlton, Quebec to be with his
old Battalion on that memorable day. Upon arriving in Petawawa Shorty Fairhead soon
reconnected with his old platoon, 7 Platoon, Charles Company, 1 RCR. It was impossible to
say who was more pleased, Shorty himself or the young soldiers of 7 Platoon. For Lieutenant
Harold Fairhead, aged 86 years, the years fell away and old memories were rekindled as
he spent the better part of the day with 7 Platoon. Sixty years after Kowang-San, Shorty
Fairhead was still very much a soldier’s soldier. There was no doubt that Shorty was an
exceptional character and had a terrific memory as he regaled the soldiers with anecdotes
about his experiences in the Korean War. One story in particular stood out. It concerned
an incident that occurred after one of the occasions when Lieutenant Fairhead had been
wounded. He was being treated in an advanced American medical aid facility, relatively
close to the front lines. To help his morale, the wounded Harold had been given a bottle
of beer to drink by the American medical staff. Nearby was a Chinese POW who was also
being treated for a wound. The captured Chinese soldier however, though wounded, was
much more mobile than Shorty. Somehow, the intrepid and thirsty Chinese soldier was able
to craftily steal the bottle of beer from Harold. Lieutenant Fairhead helplessly fumed and
cursed while the Chinaman smacked his lips with the outmost contentment. Years later,
Shorty Fairhead remembered this incident with equal parts humour and bemusement.
The following anecdote concerning Lieutenant Harold G. “Shorty” Fairhead was recently
forwarded to me by his friend, Mr. Tom Rogers.
“On 15 January 1953, six months before the war ended, Shorty and his platoon were involved
in a firefight with the Communist Chinese forces. A live grenade landed in their midst.
Without a moment’s hesitation he placekicked the grenade, saved his men, but suffered
serious wounds. Had Shorty not done so, all would have been blown to smithereens. He
was Mentioned in Despatches (MID) for his spontaneous reaction to the grenade. Harold
Fairhead was evacuated to a military hospital in Japan and later returned home to the Royal
Vic for reconstructive surgery.
The night prior to one of his operations to remove shrapnel, Shorty received a visit in his
hospital room from two of his former ‘Redmen’ teammates. Marv Meirowitz and my brother
John. Meirowitz, you may recall, later played several years with the Montreal Alouettes.
Together the three of them consumed the better part of a bottle of Scotch. A couple of
days later his buddies heard that Shorty’s heart had stopped beating on the operating
table! His caregivers weren’t quite sure whether they had fouled up or whether the Scotch
had almost done him in. It was with more than some relief that his buddies later learned
that the patient was still alive and more or less well.”
Throughout his life Harold G. Fairhead remained loyal to The Royal Canadian Regiment
and maintained close ties with the Regiment through The RCR Association till the end of
his life. It is symbolic and moving that in the last year of his life, Lieutenant Harold “Shorty”
Fairhead quite deliberately reconnected with his old Battalion on Kowang-San Day.
174 PRO PATRIA 2013
Major Herbert Russell
“Russ” Gardner,
MC, CD (Ret’d)
Major Herbert Russell “Russ” Gardner, MC, CD (Ret’d), a hero of The Royal Canadian
Regiment, passed away at Sidney, British Columbia on 26 January 2013. Born on 19 July
1927, he was 85 years of age. Herbert Russell Gardner originally hailed from Arnprior,
Ontario. He was a most distinguished veteran of the Korean War, serving as a subaltern
in Korea with 1st Battalion The Royal Canadian Regiment from 10 April 1952 — 30 March
1953. In fact he was the first officer of 1 RCR to arrive in Korea for familiarization with 2
RCR. While with 2 RCR he was wounded in both legs during a Chinese assault on Hill 163
on the night of 25-26 March 1952. Lieutenant Russ Gardner was actually wounded twice in
action in Korea. He would be awarded the Military Cross (MC) for his inspired leadership
of a fighting patrol conducted behind enemy lines against Chinese positions on Hill 227,
opposite Kowang-san (Hill 355), on the night of 23-24 September 1952. Gardner’s patrol
was highly successful and a text book example of a snatch patrol.
During the fighting patrol, mounted by Lieutenant Russ Gardner and five men of B
Company, including Corporal K.E. Fowler, a Chinese signaller was snatched from an enemy
kitchen area, while five other Chinese soldiers were shot dead. The prisoner proved to
be from the 346th Regiment, 116th Division, of the Chinese 39th Army. For this action
Gardner was awarded the Military Cross (MC) and Fowler won the Military Medal (MM).
Lieutenant Gardner was the commander of 6 Platoon, B Company, 1 RCR. During the epic
battle of Kowang-San, 22 – 24 October 1952, he would again distinguish himself for his
selfless leadership and inspiring courage under fire.
Lieutenant Gardner and a small band of B Company men fought desperately against
hundreds of Chinese attacking from the south. On the verge of being overrun, Gardner
ordered his men to make for the safety of A Company’s trenches. He bravely remained to
cover their retreat emptying his automatic carbine at the oncoming Chinese. In this action
Lieutenant Gardner was repeatedly hit by enemy fire and eventually went down, but not
before he personally shot and killed five Chinese soldiers. Hundreds of Chinese moved
through B Company’s position, ruthlessly bayoneting the bodies of any fallen Canadian
soldiers that they found. In the darkness and confusion Lieutenant Gardner was able to
crawl to A Company’s trenches, dragging with him a wounded comrade, Private Perry
of 5 Platoon. They had been among the last Canadians alive in the area defended by B
Company.
Following the Korean War H.R. Gardner would continue to serve in the Canadian Army,
eventually rising to the rank of Major. In retirement he lived in Sidney, British Columbia.
PRO PATRIA 2013 175
The Colonel Geoff
Parker Memorial Award
for 2013 is Presented
Our Regimental
Rolls of Honour
By Captain Michael M. O’Leary, The RCR
A
s someone with an interest in our regimental history, the topic of the Roll of Honour
occasionally comes up. One aspect that provokes both strident opinions in some, and
careful reflection in others, is the question of how to decide what names belong on a given
Roll of Honour. The sticking point, though seldom expressed as such, is a perception that
naming a soldier on a Roll of Honour is somehow a binding act of “ownership” and that
this should be an exclusive right.
Nothing could be further from the truth. We all share a responsibility, as a nation, to honour
our fallen. We strengthen the bonds of that responsibility with every addition of a soldier
to our many Rolls of Honour that commemorate their service and sacrifice, as long as we
understand (and in some cases identify) what connects them to our regiment.
The third recipient of the Colonel Geoff Parker Memorial Award is Lieutenant-Commander
Marc Lanouette of the Royal Canadian Navy. The award was presented to LieutenantCommander Lanouette on 22 November 2013 at the Fall Convocation at the Royal Military
College of Canada at Kingston, Ontario. Present to make the award was M.J. Parker, wife of
Colonel Geoff Parker, and Alexandra and Charlie Parker, their daughter and son.
The Colonel Geoff Parker Memorial Award is presented to an officer of the Canadian
Armed Forces who has displayed “outstanding leadership, professionalism, perseverance
and academic excellence in the pursuit of technical studies, following the completion of
a graduate degree from the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering of the
Royal Military College of Canada”. The award is given annually in memory of Colonel Geoff
Parker, CD, MEng of The Royal Canadian Regiment who obtained a Masters in Electrical
Engineering from the Royal Military College of Canada and was killed in action on 18 May
2010 in Kabul, Afghanistan.
Brigadier J.K. Lawson, MC fell in the defence of Hong Kong
Above: LCdr Marc Lanouette receives the Colonel Geoff Parker Memorial Award from M.J. Parker; Alexandra and Charlie Parker are also present.
176 PRO PATRIA 2013
on 19 Dec 1941. He was the most senior Royal to be killed
in action during WWII and lies buried at Hong Kong.
To illustrate the narrow approach,
we can look at our own historical
method of recording rolls of
honour. Within Volumes I and II of
the regimental history of The Royal
Canadian Regiment are annexes
comprising the casualty lists of
each of the Regiment’s periods
of wartime service. At first glance
they appear to be comprehensive
and have been accepted as such
by many. But these lists were
limited to those Royal Canadians
who died while serving with the
applicable overseas unit. Oddly,
this excluded Brigadier John
Kelburne Lawson, MC who died
commanding Canadian troops
in Hong Kong. Brigadier Lawson
served with The RCR from 1923,
having previously served during
the Great War, during which he
was awarded the Military Cross
while serving with the Canadian
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Machine Gun Corps. Brigadier Lawson’s gravestone in Hong Kong even identifies his
Regiment, i.e., our Regiment, The Royal Canadian Regiment.
This selective approach to recording our regimental casualties has resulted in losing
connections to many others.
During the Second World War, Lieutenant John Blair Hunt landed in Sicily as The RCR’s
Intelligence Officer. Wounded in late 1943, he returned as a reinforcement to the PPCLI
with whom he was killed two days later at San Leonardo on 14 Dec 1943. Regimental
histories for both The RCR (Vol. 2, Stevens, 1967) and the PPCLI (Vol III, Stevens, 1957)
agree in their texts that Lieut. Hunt had “been loaned by The Royal Canadian Regiment as
a company commander two days before” when he was killed in action (quoted from PPCLI
Vol III, p. 133). Despite this, Lieutenant Hunt is officially recorded as a casualty of the PPCLI
and was not recorded as a regimental casualty in The RCR’s Roll of Honour.
The choice of restrictive bounds in constructing the Regiment’s Roll of Honour means
many are forgotten by those who owe them a debt of Remembrance. Adding those who
have any service connection to a Regiment to that Regiment’s Roll of Honour does not
detract from their entitlement to be included on other Rolls. We should be encouraging
the development of expansive rolls, commemorating the many connections we have to our
fallen, no matter who they went on to serve with after marching in our own ranks. We all
share the burden of remembering their service, and commemorating their sacrifice.
“Once a Royal Canadian, always a Royal Canadian” is often quoted to suggest that once
someone has served with The RCR, they are obliged to remember that service and always
be proud of it. It is a sentiment expressed by many regiments, and it’s an obligation that
should be placed as much on the Regiment as on the soldier.
Rolls of Honour for The Royal Canadian Regiment
The published Rolls of Honour for The Royal Canadian Regiment, and likely those of many
units that have not re-examined them, were not complete. I began examining the Rolls
of Honour when I was serving as the Regimental Adjutant, and was surprised by what I
discovered in comparing the lists to the available information. The figures below show the
scope of change.
Published
regimental history:
Revisited
research:
An increase
of:
First World War (1914-1918)
774
818
44 (5.7%)
Second World War (1939-1945)
371
414
43 (11.6%)
Korean War (1950-1953)
96
148
51 (53.1%)
How, you might ask, can the numbers change for the World Wars and Korea? The
differences come with the readily available information in online databases such as the
178 PRO PATRIA 2013
Canadian Virtual War Memorial and the Commonwealth War Graves Commission. Rolls
researched and published in the 1930s and 1960s did not have the advantages of such
readily accessible information, or the ability for researchers to search for names which had
not previously been identified to regiments by the administration (in particular for soldiers
who died of wounds or service related illnesses after repatriation and discharge from the
military, but still within the date ranges for recognition). Later deaths associated with units
that no longer technically existed (after disbandment of overseas units) were not necessarily
identified by Veterans Affairs, by DND, or even by families to the continuing regimental
organization with whom they had no official service connection.
Those numbers are not yet complete. The revisited Second World War list includes
Brigadier Lawson, who lies under an RCR marked gravestone, but not yet Lieutenant Hunt,
who is recorded officially as PPCLI. That requires a more open attitude as to how to include
names, and how to identify them, for example, by noting the unit they were serving in at
time of death and their connection to the Regiment.
We can still build on this Roll in other directions. This applies not only for the modern era
where soldiers under many cap badges were serving with the Regiment in Afghanistan,
but also to past wars. As we increase our understanding of regimental history and lineage
and we develop and broaden our understanding of the responsibilities to commemorate,
we can find other soldiers who may deserve to be remembered by our regiment too (or in
some cases, noted for the first time).
Not long ago, in my research on The Royal Canadian Regiment in the First World War, I
revisited that Roll of Honour once again. In cross-referencing the wartime nominal roll that I
had developed to Ted Wigney’s CEF Roll of Honour, I identified another 39 officers, NCOs
and soldiers of the First World War who served with The RCR in the field and later died while
on the strength of other units. Some were soldiers of The RCR who had been posted to
other units (sometimes without an official change of parent regiment). Others were initially
soldiers of The RCR and later changed both units and badges. Still others spent periods
with the Regiment for familiarization in the trenches or while awaiting commissioning, and
still more were taken on the strength of The RCR only to be transferred again days or
weeks later to another front line unit as the reinforcement system struggled to make up
and balance losses. These too, were Royal Canadians, however briefly, and deserve to be
remembered as such.
But the First World War also opens up the broadest scope for commemorating our fallen,
once we consider our responsibilities to those units our regiments perpetuate. With
perpetuation, we not only accepted the honours awarded to those units, but we also
accepted the responsibility to remember their histories, their contributions, their service,
and their sacrifice.
Continuing with The RCR for my examples, these are the perpetuated units of the CEF
(admittedly, each of these needs more detailed work to confirm these lists):
1st Canadian Infantry Battalion -- approximately 6000 soldiers passed through the ranks
of the 1st Cdn Inf Bn, the Commonwealth War Graves Commission Database lists 1430
casualties identified as 1st Cdn Inf Bn.
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33rd Canadian Infantry Battalion – The sailing list for the 33rd Cdn Inf Bn includes 1499
officers, NCOs and soldiers. Of these, 385 are listed as casualties of the war, dying while
serving with 40 different units. Another twelve 33rd Battalion casualties have also been
identified.
71st Canadian Infantry Battalion -- The sailing list for the 71st Cdn Inf Bn includes 1293
serving with 57 different units. Another seven 71st Battalion casualties have also been
identified.
142nd Canadian Infantry Battalion -- The sailing list for the 142nd Cdn Inf Bn includes
607 officers, NCOs and soldiers. Of these, 78 are listed as casualties of the war, dying while
serving with 19 different units. Another five 142nd Battalion casualties have also been
identified.
168th Canadian Infantry Battalion -- The sailing list for the 168th Cdn Inf Bn includes 721
serving with 18 different units. One other 168th Battalion casualty has also been identified.
2nd Battalion, Canadian Machine Gun Corps – A website developed by Bett Payne
commemorating the 6th Canadian M.G. Company and the 2nd Battalion, CMGC, identifies
141 casualties of this battalion after its formation. (This does not include the prior casualties
of the four M.G. Companies that formed the 2nd Battalion, C.M.G.C.)
The CWGC database also identifies seven soldiers of the 7th Fusiliers who are official
casualties of the Great War. The data for the Second World War lists six soldiers of the
Canadian Fusiliers and four from The Oxford Rifles. How many went on to die serving in the
units those regiments’ soldiers reinforced is unknown as of this writing.
The Rolls of Honour that we see, however familiar they may be to us, are not static lists.
They can change as we find new names that should be included, and as we evolve and
improve our understanding of how names were selected for them in the past and revise
how we should select names for revision and in the future. Our Rolls of Honour grow as
we open ourselves to the broadest acceptance of our responsibility to commemorate our
nation’s fallen soldiers.
As we approach the centennial of the First World War, the responsibilities of perpetuation
become ever more important for us to understand within the context of our own Regiment.
While we may readily count the Battle Honours we hold from those units and the postwar connections that perpetuation established, we must understand that also came the
responsibility to honour their sacrifice.
Too restrictive an approach in developing Rolls of Honour can lead to overlooking
thousands of soldiers who deserve to be remembered, by each of the Regiments to
which their service connects. In this era of electronic maintenance of Rolls, and means of
displaying them where appropriate, we lose nothing by being inclusive. No fallen soldier is
diminished because more than one regiment remembers him. But it is our loss if we fail to
remember any soldier who rightfully holds a connection to our Regiment.
Lest We Forget.
180 PRO PATRIA 2013
Notes from Camp Phoenix,
NCSE HQ, Kabul, Afghanistan,
Op ATTENTION Roto 3
By Major S.M. (Sam) Pengelly
Once again I find myself in the land of the Taliban, surrounded by an ever present threat
to my physical, mental and emotional well-being. Yes, I am a Royal serving in a PPCLIbased Task Force. But fear not my friend, for I am not alone. Supplying top cover from
the Consolidated Fielding Center (CFC) in Camp Black Horse is Colonel John Fife and his
loyal henchmen, Captains Ryan Salsbury and Andrew Olsen. Additionally, Colonel Peter
Scott and Lieutenant-Colonel Kim Lapointe have been strategically positioned in Camp
Eggers and Major Rob Ryan sits covertly in Bagram Air Field (BAF) forming the strategic
reserve. Lieutenant-Colonel Adam Zima (former Platoon Commander 3 RCR and OC Adm
Coy 2 RCR) and Major Brian Philips (former rifle platoon and Mortar Platoon Commander
in 1 RCR), stand by in Camp Phoenix to provide flank security. I apologise if I have missed
anyone on tour, but these fine gentlemen are the only Royals I know about in theatre. I
suppose when one considers the odds, 400ish v nine(ish), we still hold a slight advantage!
Being on the final rotation of Operation ATTENTION is proving to be a most interesting
time. The unique circumstances of coordinating the thin out, tear down and eventual
pullout, while still maintaining an acceptable level of support to the Afghan National
Security Forces presents daily challenges. In addition to our own plans, as most of you
are aware, our remaining coalition partners are all in some degree of drawing down and
preparing for their eventual withdrawal. This is adding to the many unanticipated hurdles
that planners are continuously presented with and must overcome, as our reliance on allies
for real life support (RLS) and other capabilities becomes greater, their ability to provide
decreases.
For those who have never been
to Kabul, Afghanistan, and a
friendly reminder for those who
have not been here in a while, I
offer the following narrative in an
effort to give you the sense of our
surroundings. Since our arrival
in July we have experienced
extremely bright and sunny days
with the temperature remaining
fairly constant, hovering around
the 38° C mark. Camp Phoenix
is one of nine coalition camps
located within the north-eastern
QRF vehicle parking at
Camp Phoenix.
PRO PATRIA 2013 181
Entrance to the NCSE HQ at Camp
Top left: “Lego Land,” Officers’ Quarters at Camp Phoenix.
Top right: Camp Phoenix, Kabul, Afghanistan.
Bottom right: Canada House at Camp Phoenix.
part of Kabul, the largest city in Afghanistan
with a population of 3.2 million. To be honest,
I can’t find the results of the last census, but
there are those that think the population is
closer to 5 million. Amenities offered to those of us
stationed here in Phoenix include an outstanding gym and weight room, a Dining Facility
(DFac) serving reasonable choices of mainstream North American cuisine and an amazingly
wide variety of fresh fruits. Most rooms in the Re-Locatable Billets (RLB) and Lego Land
have access to internet and, surprisingly enough, American Forces Network (AFN) cable
which offers about eight channels (and still nothing interesting to watch). The camp is dry,
dusty and hot. Decorated in ultra modern metal modular buildings, most of which are used
for sleeping quarters.
Throughout the camp, Alaska and Jersey barriers have been erected to afford the visitors
protection from small arms fire or the occasional indirect fire engagement. Alaska and
Jersey barriers are precast concrete wall panels either 12 feet high (Alaska) or four feet
high (Jersey), similar to those found along a highway construction zone. And of course the
bunkers…seemingly on every corner with just enough headspace to scrape the top of your
scalp if you are not careful. Did I mention the dust? Kabul, somewhat like Kandahar, has the
most amazing dust. It can and does cover everything. It miraculously covers electronic and
other equipment, even when packed away in cases or lockers.
As with any deployment, sports and physical fitness play a major role in the daily lives of
our soldiers. So it won’t be surprising to many that the approaching fall season (in August?),
has seen the beginning of the Camp Phoenix Floor Hockey League. Consisting of six
teams, with a spattering of a few American sides, the league plays twice a week until midOctober at which time the playoffs begin. Teams with names like the “Fossils” (thank you
CSM Chubbs), Titans, Warriors and Pop Tarts, offer an effective distraction from our normal
duties as well as providing spectators with an entertaining diversion.
The National Command and Support Element (NCSE) is housed in an old converted
182 PRO PATRIA 2013
Phoenix
Maj Pengelly’s work space at NCSE HQ.
gymnasium. The largest portion is saved for the Tactical Operations Centre (TOC) and
the remainder converted into offices of various sizes to accommodate the NCSE senior
positions. The décor of the HQ is early plywood, with a spattering of post-modern furniture
(commonly referred to as “broken”). Sprinkled throughout the Headquarters are the means
with which we communicate with others in our AO, including CSN, CSNI, Centrix, NIPR,
SIPR and the other unmentionable systems. The most amazing thing about all these
communications systems is the fact that most cannot communicate with the others. That
being said, we always seem to get the job done.
The atmosphere in the HQ is far less intense or stressful from that experienced in Kandahar,
however we are all here to get a job done and that comes before all else. The threat in
theatre remains constant and the potential danger ever present. Daily Current Situation (or
CURSIT) briefings remind us all that somewhere within the AO, members of the coalition
are being killed or seriously wounded almost
daily.
In honour of all those that have been a part of
the Afghan experience, the Deputy Commander
of CCTM-A has granted permission to those who
have in their possession a Regimental/Corps/
Branch Flag/Banner/Guidon, to have it flown
above the NCSE HQ along side the Canadian
Flag. The Banner of The Royal Canadian
Regiment was raised one last time above the
NCSE HQ in the country of Afghanistan from
August 8th 2013 and remained aloft until the
12th. The Banner was lowered and sent to
Camp Black Horse where it was flown by Col
Fife for an appropriate amount of time.
Hopefully, time will pass quickly, uneventfully
and we will all be safely back in Canada before
the final series of the Stanley Cup (Go Toronto!).
Take care. Pro Patria!
The RCR Banner flown above
the NCSE HQ at
Camp Phoenix, with Maj SM
Pengelly in picture.
PRO PATRIA 2013 183
The Regimental Prayer
Almighty God; we humbly implore thy blessing on The Royal Canadian Regiment
and all of us who serve therein. Help us to prove worthy to accept the high ideals
and traditions of the past; to honour and revere the memory of those who have
gone before us; to face our responsibilities in the future, in both peace and war,
with courage, justice, love, honesty, and faithfulness. Remove all greed, hatred,
selfishness, and envy from our thoughts that we may render true service to the
Regiment and for Thee our God; for our fellow man; and “For Country”.
Two months ago during the 130th Anniversary Reunion in St John’s, I was approached by
a man who’d attended the memorial service held on Sunday morning. He is not from The
Regiment, but is a serving soldier.
He told me that he’d been brought almost to tears by our recitation of the Regimental
Prayer as part of our service and stated that he did not believe that his own organization
had such a prayer – or if it did he wasn’t aware of it. He was moved both by the fact that we
prayed as a group and by the deeper sentiments expressed by the Prayer.
I told him that we use the Regimental Prayer frequently – to open meetings of the
Regimental Executive Committee, the Senate, Association branches and the National
Executive of the Association, as well as on parades and at commemorative occasions such
as the one he’d attended.
All that got me to thinking, hence this note.
Orders. I have also found an earlier reference to the Regimental Prayer in the Minutes of
the Annual General Meeting of The RCR Association that took place on 06 November 1976
at London, Ontario. The reference was simply about the Regimental Prayer having been
read at the beginning of the meeting. These Minutes were published in the November
1976 edition of Pro Patria magazine. Many officers and men who served in the Regiment
prior to 1980 have informed me that they do not actually recall ever hearing or reading
the Regimental Prayer in its present form at any time in the 1960s and 1970s. However,
the Reverend Lyman Coleman, who was the Padre of 1 RCR from 1960-1965 and was the
Honorary Chaplain of The RCR Association from 1985-2000, did remember actually using
the Regimental Prayer in the early 1960s. At the time he believed that the Prayer originated
during the Second World War and its author had been Major Russell Oliver “Rusty” Wilkes,
MC, the Regiment’s distinguished wartime chaplain. What is clear is that whenever the
Regimental Prayer was written, it only gradually gained acceptance and popularity over
the years. Another factor that might obscure the origins of our current Prayer is that an
earlier, different version of the Regimental Prayer was written in 1933 to commemorate
The Royal Canadian Regiment’s 50th Anniversary. This older version of the Regimental
Prayer was authored by the Reverend Joseph Freeman Tupper, BD, Rector of St. Monica’s
Anglican Church in Toronto. The Reverend Tupper was both an “Old Comrade” of the
Regiment and a Padre to The RCR during the First World War. He first used the Prayer in
public at the Regiment’s 50th Anniversary Drum Head Service that took place in Victoria
Park, London, Ontario, at 11:00 AM, Sunday, 10 September 1933. This is the text of the
original Regimental Prayer.
Latterly, of course, societal changes have led to a relaxing of such practices. But when in
the history of our Regiment was the prayer written and by whom and when did we start to
use it as frequently as we do now? I certainly can’t remember it being used in my early days
in The Regiment. Perhaps someone would like to comment.
Heavenly Father, we thank thee for thy manifold and great blessings. We praise
Thy name for the faithful officers and men of The Royal Canadian Regiment who
have served their King and Country in the cause of humanity. To those under
affliction send thy healing Grace and comfort all who mourn. Grant we beseech
Thee that we may be so led by the Divine Guidance all our days that we may ever
obey thy blessed will. And when our service on earth is ended may it please Thee
that we may answer the call to join our departed comrades with the confidence
of having been faithful in our duty; sustained by a strong, religious and holy
hope; and strengthened by a sure and steadfast Faith, that looks forward to a
joyful Reveille to the life Everlasting. Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
In any case, given the response that it elicited in our guest - a PPCLI CWO – it’s right and
fitting that we continue our current practise.
Should anyone have information related to the origins and author of our current Regimental
Prayer please contact RHQ.
In years past, the three subjects excluded by custom from discussion in the Mess were sex,
religion and politics. It was deemed that these were too sensitive and that their discussion
could lead to disagreement, argument and a fracturing of the camaraderie that is so
important to effective team-building. This proscription was largely observed.
Pro Patria
Col Joe
Colonel W.J. Aitchison, OMM, CD
Colonel of the Regiment
EDITOR’S NOTE.
The current version of the Regimental Prayer (as quoted above) appears in Regimental
Standing Orders for the first time in the 1980 revised edition of Regimental Standing
184 PRO PATRIA 2013
PRO PATRIA 2013 185
The Royal
visit of HRH
The Prince
Philip, Duke
of Edinburgh,
Colonel-in-Chief
of The Royal
Canadian Regiment
HRH The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, Colonelin-Chief of The Royal Canadian Regiment.
By Major Paul N.R. Gauthier, Regimental Major
I
n early December 2012, during the hectic Regimental Officers Indoctrination Course,
the busy and hive-like activity within the crowded lecture hall of the Wolseley Barracks
Officers Mess was contrasted in the adjacent room by the lone figure of our Colonel of
the Regiment, Colonel Joe Aitchison, as he paced back and forth while talking on his cell
phone. The serious expression on our Colonel’s face suddenly changed as he ended his call
and jubilantly exclaimed, “He’s coming!”
Conversations I had heard during the past few months between the Colonel of the
Regiment and other senior Regimental officers quickly fell into place and I realized Colonel
Aitchison had just finished a call with Buckingham Palace. The Colonel-in-Chief of The
Royal Canadian Regiment was coming to Canada to present a new Regimental Colour to
the 3rd Battalion The Royal Canadian Regiment at Toronto on 27 April 2013.
What was to follow for me as a relatively new Regimental Major and the staff of Regimental
Headquarters, was a five month voyage of discovery on how to plan and organize a Royal
Visit. Since the Colonel-in-Chief had not visited the Regiment in many years, the corporate
memory on organizing such an event had evaporated. We therefore quickly set ourselves
on the road toward establishing valuable relationships with people and government
departments that guided us through the choppy waters that were to come. Within a matter
of days after the announcement of the visit by Colonel Aitchison, I had made contact with
the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and advised them of the coming trip to be made by
the Duke of Edinburgh. After a lengthy conversation with Sergeant John Monteith of the
Major Events Section, Protective Policing of the RCMP, I was led to the experienced hands
of Mr. Paul “Smokie” Leblanc, a retired Chief Warrant Officer and Regimental SergeantMajor from the Royal 22nd Regiment and now the Senior Ceremonial and Protocol Officer,
Canadian Symbols at the Department of Canadian Heritage. Mr. Leblanc provided me with
much valuable advice.
186 PRO PATRIA 2013
The next step in the planning process was
establishing a link with Prince Philip’s Palace
Staff. Thankfully, Colonel Aitchison already had
a regimental relationship with the Colonel-inChief and the planning process with the Duke
of Edinburgh’s Equerry, Squadron Leader Dale
White, was already off to a running start. We
therefore set up the first planning meeting in the
form of a week-long reconnaissance to Toronto
in order to meet everyone involved from the
Government of Canada, the Province of Ontario,
the RCMP, and the myriad of other involved
persons and organizations. With the Chairman of
the Regimental Executive Council, Colonel Jim
Col Aitchison on parade with Prince Philip
Davis, in attendance, we were able to engage all
at CFB Gagetown, NB in 1984.
of the principal organizations that would play a
part in the impending visit. When the time came to meet with the staff for the Lieutenant
Governor of Ontario at the Ontario Legislature Building (Queen’s Park), the location where
the 3rd Battalion would be conducting it’s Colours Parade, a new dimension of protocol
became apparent. It was at this stage in the planning process that news of Prince Philip’s
impending visit became known to a wider circle. The Regiment was suddenly inundated
with requests from individuals, organizations and government officials wanting to plead
their case for a piece of Prince Philip’s time while he was visiting Canada.
The initial reconnaissance in Toronto gave everyone involved an opportunity to get to
know each other and build a strong working relationship. Back at our respective home
stations, Squadron Leader Dale White and I put the finishing touches on an extraordinarily
complex event; all under the watchful guidance of the Colonel of the Regiment, Colonel
Aitchison, and Colonel Davis, as well as Prince Philip’s Private Secretary, Brigadier Archie
Miller-Bakewell. It was during this planning period that Regimental Headquarters began
working increasingly closely with the concurrent planning on the part of the 3rd Battalion
for their Colours Parade. It was during this process that I had the opportunity to work
closely with two officers from the 3rd Battalion, the Deputy Commanding Officer, Major
Kris Reeves, and the Adjutant, Captain Joe Tobin.
His Excellency the Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor-General of
Canada, inspects the 3 RCR Guard of Honour at Toronto International Airport.
Major Kris Reeves, DCO of 3 RCR.
PRO PATRIA 2013 187
In the days leading up to Prince Philip’s arrival, Regimental
Headquarters, comprised of the Regimental Adjutant,
Captain Ross Appleton, the Regimental Warrant Officer,
Warrant Officer Stephen Gillis and I made the rounds of
key locations that would be involved in the Royal Visit,
including: the Toronto International Airport, where the
Prince would be arriving; the Ontario Legislature Building,
where the 3rd Battalion’s Colours Parade would take
place; the Suite of the Lieutenant Governor of Ontario;
and, of course, the various venues at the Royal York Hotel.
On the day of the Prince Philip’s arrival, a Guard of Honour
from the 3rd Battalion was in place at the airport. With
little forewarning, His Excellency the Governor-General
of Canada, the Right Honourable David Johnston, arrived
on scene and honoured our troops by conducting an
impromptu inspection of the Guard.
Top left: HRH Prince Philip arrives at Toronto
International Airport, 26 April 2013.
Middle: Prince Philip takes the Royal
Salute of the 3 RCR Guard of Honour.
Right: The Prince’s motorcade is in route
from the airport to the Royal York Hotel.
Bottom left: Regimental Dining-In Pre-Dinner
Reception. L-R: Col W.J. Aitchison, Colonel of
the Regiment; Col J.P. Davis, Chmn REC; HRH
Prince Philip; Ms. Judith Irving, Patron of the
Regiment.
Bottom right: Maj Paul Gauthier speaking with
Prince Philip and Col Aitchison.
With everyone in place for the Duke of Edinburgh’s arrival,
the Government of Canada Challenger carrying His Royal Highness made its landing. The
moment had finally arrived and the Colonel of the Regiment could not have looked more
pleased. A few short moments later and with little ceremony, Prince Philip had boarded his
limousine and the motorcade was off. A masterful feat of driving saw our vehicle, carrying
the Prince’s luggage and the last vehicle to leave the airport, arrive at the hotel before the
Duke’s limousine. And this achieved through 5:00 PM Friday rush hour traffic in Toronto.
Once the Duke of Edinburgh was comfortably settled in his room with a few hours to rest,
we were set for the first of our engagements. A Regimental Dining-in with the Prince in
the company of our senior Regimental leadership, including the Command Teams from all
four of our Battalions. One of the finest meals I had ever seen was served up with military
188 PRO PATRIA 2013
Clockwise from top left: At the Pre-Dinner
Reception, L-R: Col Jim Davis; Squadron
Leader Dale White, Equerry to Prince
Philip; Maj Paul Gauthier; James Roscoe,
part of Prince Philip’s support group.
precision by the Royal York Hotel staff. Prince Philip had
even sent over his preferred recipe for his favourite martini.
Mindful that Saturday was to be a long day for our Colonelin-Chief, this very pleasant and intimate dining-in ended at
10:00 PM.
Regimental Dining-In at the Royal York
Up early the following day, Prince Philip’s Canadian Equerry
for the Colours Parade, Major Tim Kenney, the Officer
The place setting for HRH Prince Philip.
Commanding The Duke’s Company of the 1st Battalion The
The Regimental Dining-In in progress.
Royal Canadian Regiment, greeted the Colonel-in-Chief at
his room and escorted him to his waiting vehicle and then
Prince Philip with assembled members
to the Colours Parade at the Ontario Legislature Building.
of The RCR at the Regimental
Upon arrival at Queen’s Park, Prince Philip attended a
Dining-In, Royal York Hotel.
breakfast hosted by the Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, the
Honourable David Onley. Following breakfast, the Colonelin-Chief made his way to the front of the Legislature where, under a perfect sky, he observed
the static and dynamic displays of the 3rd Battalion. Notable highlights of these displays
included a team of precision parachutists, a rappel demonstration from a nearby office
building, and a sniper team demonstration. These displays flowed directly into the Colours
Parade. The Battalion marched into position in front of the Legislature in Regimental Full
Dress and to the beat of the Regimental Pipes and Drums. During this solemn and dignified
parade, The Colonel-in-Chief presented the new Regimental Colour to his 3rd Battalion.
Hotel on the evening of 26 April 2013.
PRO PATRIA 2013 189
In the Suite of the Lieutenant Governor, Prince
Philip meets WWII Veteran, Capt Sheridan
E. “Sherry” Atkinson (Ret’d) at breakfast.
With speedy efficiency following the
reception, Prince Philip was escorted to
the airport and boarded the Challenger
for his return to the United Kingdom.
An image that will never fade from the
author’s memory will be the image of
the Colonel of the Regiment, Colonel
W.J. Aitchison, proudly saluting the
Colonel-in-Chief as the aircraft door
closed and the plane started taxiing
away for its departure.
Below: Prince Philip speaks with soldiers of
Mike Company, 3 RCR during static displays.
Following the parade, Prince Philip was escorted back to Royal York Hotel where he
attended a reception for the entire 3rd Battalion. After posing for a photograph with his
Battalion, His Royal Highness entered the Royal York Ballroom and proceeded to make his
way around the room meeting virtually all of the soldiers and family that were in attendance.
This occasion undoubtedly left a memorable impression on everyone present.
Above: While observing 3 RCR snipers, Prince Philip speaks
with the CO, LCol David Quick.
Left: Dynamic display above Queen’s Park.
The RCR Pipes and Drums accompany 3 RCR.
190 PRO PATRIA 2013
The Battalion fixes bayonets.
PRO PATRIA 2013 191
Above: Drummers of The RCR Pipes and Drums prepare the
altar for the consecration of the new Regimental Colour.
Left: Aerial shot of 3 RCR as the new Regimental Colour is
consecrated.
Below: Prince Philip takes up the Regimental Colour.
Top: The Battalion on parade.
Above: The CO of 3 RCR, LCol David Quick, invites
HRH Prince Philip to inspect the Battalion.
Right: 3 RCR formed for inspection.
Bottom left: The new Regimental Colour is consecrated.
Bottom right: Prince Philip inspects the 3rd Battalion.
192 PRO PATRIA 2013
PRO PATRIA 2013 193
From top left: Escorted by Maj Dave Hill, Prince Philip approaches the Colour Officer.
The Battalion prepares to March Past.
The Battalion Marches Past the Colonel-in-Chief, HRH Prince Philip.
Prince Philip speaks with soldiers from 3 RCR at the post –
parade reception at the Royal York Hotel Ballroom.
Prince Philip shares a moment with members of The RCR Association.
Prince Philip with Maj John O’Quinn (Ret’d).
194 PRO PATRIA 2013
HRH Prince Philip with 3 RCR.
HRH Prince Philip presents the new Regimental Colour to the 3rd Battalion.
:
Y
L
I
C
I
S
O
T
N
R
U
A RET
Visit The RCR website at: www.thercr.ca
1943 – 2013
n
By Susan A. Atkinso
T
he years have taken their toll. Gone are the spring in the step and the boundless
energy. In their place has come the ability to share the memories with succeeding
generations so that they can learn from our history. This is the story of an old soldier and
some young ones, families of soldiers, historians and civilians, all companions on a journey,
sharing laughter and tears, and passing the torch so the sacrifices of WWII will never be
forgotten.
On 6 July 2013, this old soldier returns to the island where his war was fought, to participate
in Operation Husky 2013. He is accompanied by his wife, Susan. For the first week of this
pilgrimage, two of his daughters – the eldest
(Mary Lou, who was a baby when he went
to war), and his youngest (Patricia, who was
born 34 years after the war ended) are also
with him. They travel to a land filled with
memories for the Dad – to see the battlefields
where their father was critically injured and
lost so many friends, to say a prayer or lay a
poppy on a grave, and to help the younger
generations understand how their father’s
experiences in Sicily in 1943 shaped the
rest of his life as well as theirs and ours. The
veteran returns to remember – and to share
those memories and the lessons learned
with those who follow.
This, then, is the experience of the old
soldier, Capt. Sheridan (Sherry) Atkinson,
Ret’d, of The Royal Canadian Regiment.
Clockwise from top left: Sherry with family in Sicily, L-R: daughter
Mar Lou, Sherry, daughter Patricia, Susan.
Lieutenant Sherry Atkinson with daughter Mary Lou in 1944.
Sherry Atkinson in Sicily with wife Susan, 09 July 2013.
PRO PATRIA 2013 197
The landing beach at Pachino, 10 July 2013, 70 years
after Operation Husky, the Allied invasion of Sicily.
Sherry was born 14 October 1921 in London,
Top left: Lieutenant Sheridan E. “Sherry” Atkinson in 1943.
Ontario. While attending High School in
Middle: Sherry in Canada as a newly commissioned officer just
Chatham, Ontario, he joined the Canadian
before deploying overseas.
Machine Gun Battalion of the pre-WWII Militia,
Top right: Lieutenant Sherry Atkinson in southeastern England in
which was eventually merged with the Kent
1942, a platoon commander with The RCR.
Regiment. At the outbreak of WWII, he was a
Sergeant with the Kent Regiment (MG), although only seventeen years of age. The day
following Canada’s declaration of war, he reverted to Private, and enlisted in The Royal
Canadian Regiment at London, Ontario.
Following a series of promotions, he was appointed a Commissioned Officer, and
continued to serve with The Royal Canadian Regiment, initially in The United Kingdom,
and subsequently in the Central Mediterranean Area where he landed at Pachino, Sicily
with his unit on July 10, 1943 – the first day of the assault on that island that was dubbed
Operation Husky.
On July 10, 2013 he stands on the same beach, at approximately the same time of day as
the invasion started all those seventy years ago. The following is a record of the events and
emotions of this poignant return.
The sun rises over a much calmer sea this time. The temperature is moderate, but the sun
is relentless. On the beach near Pachino are gathered young Canadian Officer Cadets,
Italian military representatives, the Canadian Military Attaché to Rome, local civilians,
members of the Operation Husky group and one aging veteran – the only one present
to have actually landed on these beaches
10 July 1943.
seventy years ago. A band plays both the
The Pachino Beachhead on
Canadian and Italian national anthems
while their respective flags are raised. A
moving ceremony follows during which the
names of the young Canadians killed that
first day are read aloud, and white markers
planted to mark their sacrifice. Wreaths
are placed by the flagpoles by the Italian
military representatives, and Sherry lays a
wreath on behalf of the Canadians. Following
198 PRO PATRIA 2013
the ceremony, the Operation Husky 2013 marchers begin their long journey north. Each
day, this group will walk the distance and approximate route that the Canadians followed
during the original Operation Husky, planting Soldier Markers along the way to honour
each Canadian killed that day. The march into the town of Pachino, from the beachhead in
Porto Palo, is approximately 9 kilometres. The road is narrow, winding and climbing, and
the sun is blazing hot. Each marcher is making a personal sacrifice in taking each step along
this route which was freed through the shedding of blood by young Canadian men in 1943.
At the main Piazza in Pachino, the citizens of the town anxiously await the arrival of this
group and welcome them with applause, a marching band, and true, raw emotion for those
who bought their freedom so long ago. A beautiful monument is unveiled to commemorate
Operation Husky. Following the service, the people of Pachino seek to spend a moment
with the one man who was actually there on that day so long ago. Sherry is a hero to
Clockwise from top right: Sherry Atkinson
at Pachino with the Canadian Military
Attaché and RMC Cadets dressed in the
uniforms of WWII Canadian Soldiers.
Sherry being interviewed by the
Italian media near Pachino.
Sherry with friends on the
road to Pachino.
Left: The axis of advance of 1st Canadian
Infantry Division in July-August
1943 during the Sicily campaign,
closely followed 70 years later by the
marchers of Operation Husky 2013.
PRO PATRIA 2013 199
Left: The Operation Husky monument in Pachino after unveiling on 10 July 2013.
Middle: In the Piazza of Pachino, Sherry lays a wreath on behalf of The Royal Canadian Regiment.
Right: Sherry at Pachino making another friend.
them, and is honoured as such. Many photos are taken, countless autographs given, and a
multitude of hands shaken as the Sicilians say thank you.
July 12 is the anniversary of a strange and wonderful mistake. On the night of July 11,
1943, The Royal Canadian Regiment bedded down for the night at the approaches to
Rosolini – bone weary from a three hour march through indescribable heat and acrid dust
that dissolved clothes and skin. About midnight, the Regiment was loaded onto tanks and
a variety of vehicles and then preceded to an area near Ragusa. Due to the confusion of the
movement in pitch darkness, and the exhausted state of the troops, some were left behind,
including a section of the Anti-Tank Platoon and a component of the Mortar Platoon.
When daylight dawned, on the morning of July 12th, 1943, thirteen Royal Canadians awoke
to find that their Regiment had departed and they had no idea as to their destination.
These thirteen headed off in the direction they assumed the Regiment had taken, and
were directed by a Military Policeman to follow that route. Unfortunately, his information
was incorrect, and the group soon found themselves in enemy territory. They picked up
other stragglers, including a dispatch rider and a Bren Gun Carrier from another Regiment.
Upon the approach to the town of Modica, they encountered the enemy. After a serious
firefight, which included a very surprised Brigadier Chris Vokes (shot at as
he approached their position), and
with the aid of three self-propelled
is typical of the
The RCR in Sicily, July-August 1943. This
25-pounder field guns, this small
t over in Sicily.
terrain the Regiment marched and fough
band of Canadian won the day.
They captured seven officers, 78
other ranks, five machine-guns, one
anti-tank gun, seven artillery pieces,
and several brand new Fiat trucks
loaded with supplies, while suffering
no casualties themselves. While
there is much more to this story, the
end result was that unofficially, thenLieutenant Sherry Atkinson accepted
the surrender of Modica and over 900
Italian soldiers.
200 PRO PATRIA 2013
Modica in 1943, with handwritten
July 12, 2013
notes by Sherry Atkinson.
brings him back
to this beautiful
ancient city, and back to the people
whom he liberated seventy years
ago. After a service at the town War
Memorial, the citizens of Modica gather
to express their thanks. One story in
particular captures the true sentiment
of the occasion. An older gentleman
approaches Sherry and offers his hand
in friendship. He speaks English, and
says to Sherry, “when I was a boy of
seven, and starving, you gave me food
and chocolate. I now give you the chocolate
of Modica to say thank you for my freedom.”
There are very few dry eyes amongst those
who witness this exchange. Cries of “mille
grazie” follow Sherry as he makes his way
through town to enjoy lunch with the others on
the Operation Husky group.
The days are long, hot and emotional. Each
town we visit brings back the memories of that
young soldier who passed this way in 1943,
and of other lives cut short by war. Battle
Above: Lieutenant Sherry Atkinson’s military
identification card in 1943.
Left: Some of the 900 hundred Italians taken prisoner at Modica
on 12 July 1943, with note written on picture by Sherry Atkinson.
PRO PATRIA 2013 201
The town of Modica today.
e to the Mayor of Modica.
Below: Sherry presents Regimental plaqu
Clockwise from top left: Sherry with daughters
scenes are remembered, losses relived,
and the pain of those losses is evident.
A visit to the Commonwealth War
Graves Cemetery outside Agira brings
true understanding of just how lucky
we all are to have Sherry with us today.
As we stand before the graves of thirtythree other soldiers of his Regiment
who paid the ultimate sacrifice, some
close friends and all brothers in arms, his feelings of loss are evident. But there is also, for
we who were not with them in 1943, a sense of the honour and sacrifice with which these
562 men gave their lives to secure the freedom of Sicily and, eventually, the end of World
War II.
Eventually, it is time for Mary Lou and Patricia to leave us here in this land of memories. It is
bittersweet to drop them at the airport and know that we are now alone, and yet not alone.
The young members of Operation Husky have adopted Sherry as their own. They seek him
out to listen to his stories, they supply water and much needed shade, they support him
as he stands to salute and sit with him when possible. We have four young Officer Cadets
with us, and they are always there when we need them.
With each day that passes, we witness more and more the genuine gratitude of the Sicilians
for what the Canadians did to secure their freedom. Old folks coming over to simply grasp
Sherry’s hand and say “Mille Grazie”, others kissing him on both cheeks, small children
202 PRO PATRIA 2013
Mary Lou and Patricia in Modica.
Sherry on the road with daughters Mary Lou and Patricia.
Sherry at Modica enjoys a moment of relaxation
during his pilgrimage to Sicily.
approaching to stand beside him and hold his hand during the service – all these things
remind us how precious freedom is.
Daily, as the marchers follow the arduous route taken by various Canadian Regiments,
they plant Soldier Markers along the way. These markers are white, and stand about three
feet tall. Each features a maple leaf, an Italian flag, and a metal plaque, written in Italian,
honouring a specific young soldier who lost his life while fighting in Sicily. They are placed
in clusters along the sides of the road, near where they died, and will be placed on the
anniversary of the date of their death. These makers have been sponsored by individuals
and organizations across Canada to remember and honour our dead.
The simple effort of placing these markers has brought a deep understanding to many of
our members as they attempt to dig a small hole for each. They have discovered the near
impossibility of penetrating this volcanic earth, and the hardship of being exposed to the
brutal Sicilian sun for many hours. We have told them to try to imagine digging a slit trench
under these conditions while under enemy fire.
Slowly, day by day, kilometre by kilometre, this small group of Canadians make their way
north across this stunning landscape. Staring out at the rough cliffs, soaring mountains
PRO PATRIA 2013 203
leg of this long journey, we are
joined by many other Canadians
who have come to this land to
commemorate and celebrate
with us. They include relatives
of those who fought here and
a 60-man contingent from
the Canadian Armed Forces.
These men represent the 30
regiments that fought in these
battles. Their presence among
us renews our stamina, and
makes us proud to share the
journey with them. As they join
in the marches and ceremonies,
we stand a little taller as they
“Stand on Guard” for us.
Sherry with local Sicilians.
Private Kenneth John Earnshaw is one of 33 Royals
1943.
buried at Agira. He fell at Regalbuto on 01 August
known
well
was
he
,
Platoon
nk
Anti-Ta
of
er
A memb
.
to Sherry who was the Anti-Tank Platoon Officer
Soldier Markers placed in a cluster on a Sicilian hillside
along the route of Operation Husky 2013.
Top:: The RCR advances in Sicily during July 1943.
and deep valleys makes one wonder just how the Canadians managed to accomplish their
victory seventy years ago. This is an unforgiving land, and a brutal climate. As we today
enjoy unlimited fresh water, we are reminded that each Canadian soldier in 1943 was
allocated one canteen of fresh water per day. With this water, they were expected to wash,
cook and survive. Because the retreating Germans poisoned each fresh water source as
they passed, there was rarely any extra rations of water to be had.
Daily we move further north along the route our men once fought over. We stop in Ragusa
and Vizzini, where a large group of Italian veterans are waiting for us. Two in particular catch
out attention, one 92 and one 95. They had both been here during the war, and had been
placed in POW camp in Greece for three years, probably by the Germans for disobeying
orders. They are so pleased to have Sherry there, and everyone is very gracious. From here
we move on to Grammichele, Caltagirone, San Michele di Ganzaria, Valguarnera, Dittaino
Station, and on to Nissoria. This is where Sherry received his grievous injury. The exact
location can no longer be pinpointed as the town of Nissoria has expanded over the olive
grove in which his injury occurred. To be in the area is enough to appreciate the luck that
spared his life, thereby giving us the opportunity to relive his memories with him. With each
day that passes, each kilometre walked, each soldier’s marker planted, our respect for these
men grows.
The march continues to Radussa, Mt. Scalpello, and Regalbuto. As we approach the final
204 PRO PATRIA 2013
Middle: The terrain near Nissoria where Lieutenant Sherry
Atkinson was wounded on 24 July 1943.
The final week of Operation
Husky
2013
sees
major
ceremonies
in
important
towns
along
the
route
followed by our boys. Piazza
Armerina, Leonforte, Assoro,
Catenanuova, Adrano and
finally Agira welcome us with
open arms. If there were ever
any doubts as to whether
the battle to liberate Sicily
was worth the lives lost and
damaged, these receptions
erase those doubts. Sicilians by
the thousands gather and wait
in the hot sun for the arrival of
“the Canadese”. As the pipes
and drums announce their
arrival, cheers rise and many of
the locals join the march to the
local War Monument. A solemn
ceremony follows, with the
national anthems, the raising of
the two flags, speeches, wreath
laying and prayers. The citizens
of each town welcome us with
open arms and open hearts.
They seek out the one veteran
amongst us, who represents
PRO PATRIA 2013 205
Left: Agira Canadian War Cemetery where most
of the Canadians who fell in Sicily lie buried.
Below: Sherry Atkinson salutes fallen comrades.
The Royal Canadian Regiment Voluntary
Contributions Program
The purpose of the Voluntary Contributions Program (VCP) is to provide funding for
Regimental initiatives benefitting individual members of the Regiment, as well as to
support major Regimental projects and operations. A portion of the contributions
received will be invested in order to aid in the financing of longer-term projects, thus
ensuring that the Regiment retains the capability of maintaining historical traditions and of
defining and promoting the distinctiveness of the Regiment.
From its inception, the VCP rates have been pro-rated by rank, with more senior ranks
asked to contribute a larger individual monthly contribution than junior ranks.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
the 25,000 men who fought to give them the freedom they
enjoy today. Their thanks resound throughout the square,
and humble us all.
On July 30 2013, a ceremony is held at the Commonwealth
War Graves Cemetery at Agira, Sicily. This is arguably the
most beautiful of all Canadian War Cemeteries. The setting is idyllic, atop
a gentle rise with the Cross of Sacrifice at the top overlooking beautiful Lake Pozzillo.
After each day of battle, roll is called to ensure everyone is accounted for. Today, this
ritual is repeated. Canadians and Italians take their places in front of each marker. As the
names of the dead are called, someone answers the call in that man’s stead. It is difficult
to control one’s emotions while listening to the seemingly endless list of our young men
who rest eternally in this foreign soil. Five hundred and sixty-two young Canadians gave
their lives in Sicily between July 10, 1943 and August 8, 1943 to give us all our freedom.
What VCP rate should I be paying?
Remaining a paid-up contributor, in accordance with your rank, to the VCP is one
criterion for receipt of the Regimental departure gifts upon retirement. These Regimental
departure gifts or entitlements include the Regimental scroll and coin after two years
service in the Regiment; and the Soldier of the Queen statuette for 20 years or more of
Regimental service, if contributing to the VCP.
As of 1 July 2013 the new monthly VCP rates by
rank will be as follows:
• Pte $5.00
• Cpl/MCpl $6.00
• Sgt/WO/MWO$10.00
• CWO$15.00
• OCdt/2Lt/Lt/Capt$12.00
• Maj/LCol/Col$20.00
May we never forget their sacrifice.
• General Officer$35.00
Left: Assisted by two other Royals, WO Scott Russell and MWO Jack Durnford,
Sherry Atkinson lays a wreath at the Agira Canadian War Cemetery.
Right: At Agira Sherry sits with LGen Jonathan H. Vance, then posted at
Naples, Italy. Other Royals at Agira on this day included Maj Gerry Shellington,
MWO Jack Durnford, WO Scott Russell, and MCpl Charlie Cockerell.
206 PRO PATRIA 2013
What does VCP support?
• Free issue of accoutrements (e.g. initial
issue of cap badge, buttons, PT shell,
Sergeant’s sash)
• Regimental Departure Gifts
• Tributes (e.g. flowers) sent on behalf of the
Regiment
• Support to The RCR Association Bursary
• Support to The RCR Pipes and Drums
• Support to Regimental operations
• Bookkeeping/Accounting/Banking
Enhanced Departure Gift
Soldier of The Queen
For more information visit:
www.thercr.ca
PRO PATRIA 2013 207
THE ROYAL CANADIAN REGIMENT WAREHOUSE
Regimental Store Order Form
PRICES INCLUDED IN PRO PATRIA CHANGE FREQUENTLY as new stock is
received. The most current prices can be found online at our website. If you would
like our staff to assist you please contact them using the contact information below.
Please ensure that your contact information is correct.
Contact Us
Our mailing address is:
REGIMENTAL WAREHOUSE
Victoria Barracks
PO Box 9999 Station Main
Petawawa Ontario K8H 2X3
ORDER DESK
Phone: 613-687-5511 Local 2871
Fax: 613-588-5932
WEB SITE:
www.theroyalcanadianregiment.ca/kitshop
Name (Please Print):
Mailing Address:
Postal Code:
Home Tel #: NAME OF ITEM
Rank (if Military) Office Tel #:
COLOUR
SIZE
QTY
PRICE PER
ITEM
(SEE WEBSITE)
**WE DO NOT ACCEPT CHEQUES WITH YOUR
ORDER. PLEASE SEND PAYMENT ON RECEIVING THE
INVOICE. ONCE WE RECEIVE THE PAYMENT WE WILL
SEND OUT THE ORDER.**
Method of Payment (check one)
Credit Card:
Invoice:
Credit Card: Name on Card: ADD
TOTAL
PRICE
HST 13%
Shipping &
Handling
TOTAL
Account#:
Expiry Date:
$13.00
Prices are subject to change. Visit the Website for the latest prices.
Regimental Item
Stock
code
Web
Price
RCR Banner 3’x6’
FLAG01
$70.00
RCR Banner 18”x36”
FLAG02
$27.00
RCR Banner Desk
FLAG04
$7.00
RCR Ceremonial Buckle
CER0001
$18.00
Pace Stick Black
DRL004
$205.00
1897 Infantry Pattern Sword Officer
DRL003
$1,450.49
Ceremonial Sword Knot Infantry Officer
DRL006
$60.00
Ceremonial Sword Belt White Leather
DRL007
$184.00
RCR Cap Badge Metal NCM
CB0007
$9.25
RCR Cap Badge Bullion Cloth MWO- Officer
CB0011
$12.00
RCR Blazer Crest, Cloth – All Ranks
DRES22
$18.10
RCR Blazer Crest – Metal – All Ranks
DRES21
$18.10
DEU VRI Belt Buckle
BELT08
$16.50
DEU VRI Button 26 L Pocket
BUT03
$1.90
DEU VRI Button 30 L Jacket
BUT04
$1.90
DEU RCR Collar Dogs
DRES18
$8.75
Infantry Sash Sergeant
DRES45
$90.00
Infantry Sash Crimson WO - CWO
DRES51
$100.00
DEU Shoulder Title Metal
DRES36
$8.58
DEU Shoulder Title Cloth
DRES58
$1.50
Mess Dress Button 24 L
BUT02
$1.90
Mess Dress RCR Cummerbund
DRES74
$30.00
Mess Dress Cuff Links SNR NCO
DRES002
$16.50
Mess Dress Cuff Links Officer
DRES003
$18.50
Mess Dress Color Dogs Silver Officer
DRES73
$16.00
Mess Dress Shirt Studs SNR NCO Set
DRES005
$20.00
Authorized Signature:
208 PRO PATRIA 2013
PRO PATRIA 2013 209
THE ROYAL CANADIAN REGIMENT ASSOCIATION
BURSARY PROGRAM APPLICATION FORM
Regimental Item
Stock code
Web
Price
Mess Dress Shirt Studs Officer Set
DRES006
$20.00
1 RCR Decal
DECALS1
$3.00
2 RCR Decal
DECALS2
$3.00
3 RCR Decal
DECALS3
$3.00
4 RCR Decal
DECALS4
$3.00
Tie Pin NCM
DRES007
$6.90
Tie Pin Officer
DRES008
$6.90
Mini Regimental Colour and Queen’s
Colour Sets
Flags Colours
$250.00
The RCR Association Blazer Crest
DRES26
$18.10
Epaulette The RCR Association
DRES15
$17.00
The RCR Association Decal
decals5
$3.00
Lapel Pin The RCR Association
LP0010
$3.20
Ball Cap RCR Cap Badge Debussed
(Black Only)
cap003
$10.00
Ball Cap “Retired Army RCR”
cap004
$15.00
DECAL 07
$3.00
Tie Regimental, Polyester
DRES33
$12.85
Tie Regimental, 100%Silk
DRES34
$35.00
Lapel Pin RCR Cap Badge (New Type)
LP0011
$4.00
Lapel Pin VRI Cypher
LP0015
$5.00
Support the Troops Yellow Ribbon w/ Cap
Badge
LP0023
$3.50
RCR Garrison Shoulder Patch (90’s Garrison
Work Dress)
For More Items and Information visit:
www.theroyalcanadianregiment.ca/kitshop
THE ROYAL CANADIAN REGIMENT WAREHOUSE
Prices are subject to change. Visit the Website for the most current prices.
210 PRO PATRIA 2013
This application is available online
1. Name of Applicant:
Address: Phone: (
Postal Code:
)
Date of Birth:
Email:
2. Secondary School(s) attended & dates:
3. What grade did you or will you complete this June?
4. School from which final marks were obtained previously or will be obtained for the
current scholastic year:
5. High School credits you intend to complete in the current scholastic year:
School Activities:
6. Community Activities:
(Community service is an important selection criterion and should be recorded in detail.
Letters of reference or appreciation may be included.)
7. Name the institute of higher learning, which you plan to attend in the next
scholastic year:
8. IS YOUR PARENT, GRANDPARENT, OR GUARDIAN:
a. A serving member of The Royal Canadian Regiment?
b. A former member or deceased member of The Royal Canadian Regiment?
OR
c. Are you a member or spouse of a member of The Royal Canadian Regiment?
OR
d. A
re you a member in good standing of a Cadet Corps affiliated with or sponsored
by The Royal Canadian Regiment?
PRO PATRIA 2013 211
If the answer to items 8a, 8b or 8c inclusive is “yes” please provide the following
information:
Name & Service Number of Parent, Grandparent, Guardian or Spouse who is serving or
has served in The RCR:
Dates of Service:
**IMPORTANT**IMPORTANT**IMPORTANT**IMPORTANT**IMPORTANT**
The RCR Unit or ERE:
9. THE FOLLOWING CERTIFICATE IS TO BE COMPLETED WHEN APPLICATION IS
SUBMITTED PURSUANT TO PARAGRAPH 8D ABOVE:
“It is certified that MOVED OR MOVING
is a member in good standing
(Name of Applicant)
of
PLEASE COMPLETE AND RETURN TO RHQ IF YOUR ADDRESS HAS CHANGED
Mail to: Regimental Headquarters, The Royal Canadian Regiment, Victoria Barracks,
PO Box 9999 Stn Main, Petawawa, ON K8H 2X3
OLD ADDRESS
(RCR Unit, ERE, Cadet Corps – Number & Name)
(Cadet Corps Commanding Officer – Signature) (Date)
10. To access the family financial need, the following additional information is required
and will be treated in confidence:
a. Total of both parents’ or serving members’ gross income for the previous
calendar year:
b. Number of supported children, including applicant who are attending:
pre–school high school
public school university
11. Please attach to this application a reference from your secondary school principal.
If a cadet or serving soldier or spouse, a letter from your unit CO must also be
enclosed.
12. All sections of this form must be completed and all pertinent documents,
including the acceptance to the institute of higher learning, submitted to the
bursary committee with the application (with exception of the final marks, if not
available at the time of application)
Print Name, Rank, Decorations (or attach old label) Name of Spouse
House no., Street Name, Apt. no./P.O. Box/R.R. no.
City Province Postal Code
NEW ADDRESS
House no., Street Name, Apt. no./P.O. Box/R.R. no.
City Province Postal Code
Signature Phone
13. SIGNED: Applicant:
Parent, Guardian, CO:
Place: PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION BY
30 JULY.
PLEASE FORWARD A COPY OF YOUR FINAL
MARKS BY 31 AUGUST OF THE YEAR OF
APPLICATION.
CHECKLIST:
Have you enclosed: Application Form Final Marks (if available) Letter from CO (if applicable) Date:
To: Bursary Committee, The RCR Association
Regimental Headquarters
Victoria Barracks
P.O. Box 9999, Stn Main
Petawawa, ON K8H 2X3
Principal’s Letter of Recommendation
Acceptance document from University/College
Community Service letters/references
NOTE: It is important to send your application with all information complete. Failure to do so
can jeopardize your chances!! Use the checklist above to ensure all is in order.
212 PRO PATRIA 2013
PRO PATRIA 2013 213
THE LAST WORD
Your feedback is always
welcome. If you have any
suggestions please send
them to RHQ, Attn: The
Regimental Adjutant. Work
for Pro Patria 2014 is now
underway, so send your ideas
soon. Written submissions
and photographs are always
welcome. Please send these
digitally if at all possible.
Please ensure that the authors
and photographers are clearly
identifieded. Pro Patria!
The Regimental Adjutant
Capt R.A. Appleton

Pro Patria 2013 - The Royal Canadian Regiment

Transcription

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