academy staff make home station feel like home

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2014
“HAVE OUR CANADIAN SOULS BEEN SOLD FOR A HANDFULL
OF BEAN-COUNTERS?”
LEST WE FORGET WHAT PRICE PAID
& WHO PAID IT
Guess there is no time like around REMEMBRANCE DAY than to relive history lessons.
Oh I think most of us Remember quite well. Most of us were serving when we knew who the
enemy was and where they were. Behind those DAMNED WALLS. Funny how the Bean
Counters knew where they were too, and were oh so happy to see you standing a post in front
of them facing the people who wanted to take away their “Bean Counting” way of life.
Now the world is facing a people who revival the Nazi SS in brutality and dogma. Let’s
not mince words, the “Master Race” has been replaced by “Infidels and Non Believers”… words
may be different but the actions are oh so reminiscent of why our fathers and mothers,
grandfathers and grandmothers (and even great grandparents) took up arms and went to war.
And a war that cost so very much more than today because it was TOTAL WAR, but you would
have to wonder today if the Bean-Counters and the Banks had been in total control back then
like they are today. Verstehen sie?
To Honour and Remember MENTIONED IN DISPATCHES will have at points “poems,
pictures, and other writings” that most of us have heard in our lives and some even memorized
posted throughout. Feel free to copy them to read, and pass along to those who feel would
benefit. Also maybe feel free to send copies to any Bean Counters and Politicians… but I doubt
very much they would even have an idea what this was about other than a photo op.
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‘O GROUP’
Russ Girden, Association President
Fall has come upon us, with the beauty of the colours and winds blowing in a new
season. With this comes holiday times and memorable moments. During these times, I
hope that we are all able to reflect on the past as well as the future. To all the brothers
that have fallen in recent history, we the members of the Association make it our pledge
to always Honour and Remember not only your friendship, guidance but the brother
hood that you brought to our hearts and the Military Police trade in general.
November the 11th is fast approaching us. This is a special time in which all veterans
remember our fallen heroes. We wear our Poppies with pride and distinction. There is a
special bond felt as we partake in the specific memorial services we attend. Our hearts
pound as we hear the clapping of hands as we march to the cenotaph amongst our peers
and present day serving members. As the last lament is played, we stand in silence and
reflect on the past ...always remembering our fallen brothers, known and unknown to us
personally. With our members going to help in the fight against ISIS, we pray that you
are able to return as strong as you entered.
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Mr. Scott (Doc) Aldridge has put together another Dispatch in which he has outlined the
upcoming events. I encourage you all to have a look please attempt to make it to some
of the events. The Dispatch is a great voice for our Association, and your all asked to
provide any anecdotes and old war stories for everyone's perusal and enjoyment.
To all the members who assisted in the First Senate Ride, a large thank you. To the
Senate, we appreciate your asking for assistance, and were pleased to help out in you
successful Ride.
As always, a big personal thank you to all the Executive and Committee members who
assist in the decision making and provide fresh ideas for the Association. With out them
and all members of the Association, we would fail.
We grow strong through strength of the membership.
To Honour and Remember.
Russell L.E. Girden
President
The Pointsman Association.
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AT THE GOING DOWN OF THE SUN…
WE WILL REMEMBER THEM
Dean Lawrence
Harold Smith
Larry Barth
Once the badge goes on, it never comes off, whether they can see it, or not. It fuses to
the soul through adversity, fear and adrenaline and no one who has ever worn it with
pride, integrity and guts, can ever sleep through the 'call of the wild' that wafts through
bedroom windows in the deep of the night.
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SECURITY BRANCH PRAYER
Almighty God
By whose grace we are called to the positions of responsibility and trust,
We ask Your Blessings upon all who have served and serve today in the
Security Branch of the Canadian Forces, at home and abroad,
Inspire us with courage and wisdom, courtesy and faithfulness,
Give us the true knowledge of Your Will that we may give proper guidance to our
comrades,
That by serving others honourably and with justice we may serve You well and
become more worthy of our Military Police calling.
Amen
“TO HONOUR AND REMEMBER”
INFO POST
ROLL CALL !
The
POINTSMAN ASSOCIATION
RECOGNIZES
1. Big G and Princess Carmina will be celebrating 60 years of marriage on September
21st. I would like to take this opportunity (Jackie & I) to wish them the very best and
congratulate them on this accomplishment. I know that many of you out there will want to
do the same so please do so by e mailing them at [email protected]
Very Special Occasion for some Very Special People
Dell and Jackie Blakney
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2. Birthdays: Russell Girden, Dell Blakney, Tom Dunne, Dot Cooper, Dave Bawden, John
“JB” Hosegrove, Bradley Baker, Ryan Deane, and a special 1 MP PL salute to Al Woodall.
Strange that the Honourable People listed were all born around the same time. Only
goes to prove that Cable is not as reliable in those early Winter Months as it is in
Summertime.
3. Get Well Wishes to: Bob Fairall
4. Happy Retirement to MWO Annie Andrews!
5. Happy Anniversary to Russ & Kathy Girden (20) and Kris Davis and Mack (2).
75th Anniversary “MP Historical Veterans Platoon”
UPDATE: At this time there are members working on this project and we should be
further notices and information coming out just after the New Year. A Bravo-Zulu to Our
Pointsman Association Vice President Mr Duncan Legget who is “On Point”. for this project.
We have already had some inquiries and interest from some members in general and
from the Branch. Some notes have also gone out to some of the events that normally very
receptive to having veterans groups participate in their events and we also will be sharing that
info in the very near future.
POINTSMAN ASSOCIATION
Those wishing to contact the POINTSMAN ASSOCIATION can send us a note to
[email protected] or send by Canada Post to:
The Pointsman Association
PO Box 33023 Bellwood Post Office
London ON N5Y 1A0
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A Thank you to Sargeant
Major Lew Johnstone
CFMPA CWO for this look
at a totem that is destined
for the school.
Many contributions were
made by former and
current members of the
Branch, and a special
shout out of $3000 from
Graham Construction
Company for the
construction of this
monument. We look
forward to further progress
on the totem. BZ Sgt Major
and Thank you again Sir.
PAST EVENTS UPDATE:
Saturday September 20th saw 2 MP Regiment,
Kingston Detachment members and a display of
modern day police vehicles in attendance in support of
the First Senate Ride flanked by Peter Marshall's and
Dell Blakney's jeeps. The Pointsman Flag hanging
from the side of Dell's vehicle. On the lawn in front of
the Army Navy Air Force Club in Kingston West.
With a heavy threat of rain the numbers were not as
great as we would have expected; however, after
expenses $373.00 was added to the Senate Cash Box
and the fellowship ignited was reward enough for the
efforts of the organizers.
Events like this, in the Kingston Area would not be
possible without the "Support" the ANAF Club provide.
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POINTSMAN FLAG:
To Honour and Remember RCMP “Moncton 3”
This picture and small write up appeared and in the Fredericton NB paper a few days
after Pointsman Association Atlantic Representatives Rick de Gruyl and Jack Schleihauf
presented an Association Flag to Assistant Commissioner Roger Brown of the RCMP in
remembrance of Constables Ross, Gevandan, and Larch. Amongst Fredericton Fire
Fighters were MP’s Cpl Tyler Tunis, Sgt Jean Leblanc and MWO Greg Rogers. Thank you
all for helping to remember our fallen heroes.
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OCTOBER 2014 FREDERICTON NB
“GUNS & HOSES”
The Pointsman Flag made it’s Annual Visit to the Guns & Hoses Charity
Hockey Game between Fredericton New Brunswick’s Fire Fighters and
Police. Pretty sure the Good Guys won!
SCHEDULE OF UPCOMING EVENTS
SCHEDULE OF UPCOMING EVENTS
START POINTS
Route
Signs
Date
NOVEMBER 7th
NOVEMBER 7TH
NOVEMBER 11TH
:
Event
CFMPA REMEMBRANCE
PARADE
ASU LONDON MP STAFF
DINNER
REMEMBRANCE SERVICES
Location
BORDEN ON
LONDON ON
EVERYWHERE
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2015
MAY
JUNE
WALK & ROLL VOLKSMARCHE
75th ANNIVERSARY GALA
SEPTEMBER
RENDEZVOUS 75
TB Confirmed by
January 2015
OTTAWA ON
PETERBOURGH ON
Dinner for all staff from the Military Police
section ASU/CFB London
Please note that we have arranged an evening get together for all the crew
(husbands, wives, MP’s and Commissionaires) from CFB/ASU London MP
Section. At the Shanghai restaurant on Springbank Drive for Friday evening
November 7th at 2000hrs. OC Dave Bawden. Please send Dave an email if
you plan to attend [email protected]. So far we have Jack Collins, John
Pyke, Doc Aldridge, Ryan Dean, K12, Warren Hayden, Dave Bawden, Reg
Hammond, Kris Davis already confirmed,
PS. It goes without saying that any MP’s/Pointsman members in
the area are more than welcome to attend.
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CFMPA REMEMBRANCE PARADE
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Above is a shorten copy of the letters sent out by CWO Johnstone inviting all
Veterans to participate in the School’s Remembrance Day Parade on Friday
November 7th, starting at 1300 hrs. Veterans are asked to be at the school at
around 1200 hrs to check in and be briefed on the activities. A good turnout last
year set a high goal for this years and the following year’s attendance.
JUST IN UNDER THE WIRE:
Official Book Launch for Discipline by Example
The MP 75th Anniversary Committee will be hosting an official launch
party for Discipline by Example – 75 Years of Military Police in Canada on Friday,
7 November 2014, at the Army Officer’s Mess in Ottawa, ON. There is no charge
for attending this event; however, the Mess dress code is in effect (casual dress,
no jeans…see the Mess website for more information.
Come join us to celebrate the release of this unique publication, the first of
its kind in MP history, meet the editors, and learn about the process involved in
creating the book.
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We will have a limited supply of books on hand for purchase during this
event. If you buy your copy in person, you will enjoy savings by not having to pay
shipping costs from the publisher!
6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m., Friday, 7 November 2014,
The Army Officers' Mess, 149 Somerset Street West, Ottawa, Ontario
REMEMBRANCE DAY TUESDAY NOVEMBER 11TH
NOVEMBER 11TH, 2014 REMEMBRANCE SERVICES,
WILTON GROVE, ON, WINGHAM, ON,
BEECHWOOD NATIONAL MILITARY CEMETARY
Mmebers are asked to attend the Remembeance Day Services of your choice. However Wilton
Grove in Eastern ON and Wingham ON Remembrance Services have always been special due
to honouring the memory of Matt Dining and Randy Payne, the two Military Policemen who fell
in Afghanistan. Services at the National Cemetary honour and are open to all.
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Excuse me sir?
Excuse me sir?
Forgive me please…
With a beret on your head, and the leaf on your sleeve.
I noticed you staring, so deeply in thought
Have a drink, go head, from this coffee I bought.
The skies are all cloudy; I’m cold all the way,
Oh please sir, couldn’t, we remember in May?
Excuse me sir?
How lonely you stand
You lean on your cane, so I’ll offer my hand.
The soldiers are coming. I think war is mad.
Such promising young lives, but that stone is so sad.
Others are coming, there’s a box held on high
Please take it, sir, my hankie, you’re starting to cry.
Excuse me sir?
Did you know the man?
I saw you salute him with quivering hand.
Was he your brother? Was he your friend?
Why was it time for his young life to end?
The soldiers look sharp! They’re all very proud!
But shooting their guns…is awfully loud.
Excuse me sir?
Now what do I do?
It’s just isn’t right for his life to be through.
So I’ll walk, and I’ll pray, but tell me you might
Why people go to war? Can you tell me it’s right?
Why do they serve? What reasons they find?
Why do I feel I’ve left something behind?
Excuse me sir?
But I have a thought.
You and the soldier, it’s for us that you fought!
You served for your families, you protected our land.
You made me feel safe. Please give me your hand.
I know he is listening as I say this to you
From all in my heart and soul - “Thank you”.
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75th Anniversary Event Honouring
4 Military Police Platoon
“WALK & ROLL” Volksmarche
May 2015
As part of the Field Reunion Celebrations in September, the Pointsman
Association is working on a Volksmarche or People’s March to be held in May
2015.
“WALK AND ROLL” allow people to either walk or use a walker or a scooter
to cover a selected distance of either 0 Kilometres, 5 Kilometres, 2 Kilometres or 1
kilometre depending on the participants choice. Along the routes will be selected
“points of interest” as per the traditional walks in Germany. At the end of the route
will be a traditional opportunity to break bread and relive old memories and create
new ones.
Further details should be ready to go by Christmas 2014!
75th ANNIVERSARY GALA DINNER
Tickets now on sale for the 75th Anniversary Gala Dinner
At long last, the MP 75th Anniversary Committee is pleased to announce that tickets for the Gala
Dinner are now on sale. This formal event will occur on Friday, June 12 th, 2015, in the LeBreton
Gallery of the Canadian War Museum in Ottawa. The reception is at 6:00 p.m., with the dinner
commencing at 7:00 p.m.
All members of the Military Police “extended family” and a guest are welcome to attend this
gala dinner, including: Spouses; Former members of the Canadian Provost Corps and RCAF
Police; Current and retired members of the Military Police; Public servants, civilian employees,
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and contractors who have worked with the Military Police; and Civilian law enforcement
members
For a gala dinner of this magnitude, ticket prices would normally be expected to cost from $150
to $300 per person. However, due entirely to the fund-raising activities conducted by the MP 75
committee, costs have been lowered to an unheard of level. Tickets are only $25 per person
until April 1st, 2015. After April 1st, 2015, ticket prices will go up to $40 per person.
Seating is limited to 600. While this may seem like a large number, sales are expected to be
brisk as the MP75 committee has fielded hundreds of inquiries about this event over the last few
months. For this reason, you are urged to contact PO2 Guillaume Harvey
at [email protected] to purchase your seats early. Make sure to take advantage
of the “early bird” pricing before April 1 st, 2015.
The LeBreton Gallery at the Canadian War Museum will create a unique ambience, steeped in
military tradition; combined with the gourmet three-course meal and entertainment provided by
the Central Band of the Canadian Armed Forces, this will be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that
is not to be missed.
Menu: Romaine hearts served with grated parmesan, bacon and oregano focaccia croutons;
Wild mushroom and Brie stuffed chicken supreme with double baked potato and Madeira
reduction; or
Coffee crème brûlée garnished with maple flavoured coffee beans.
Coffee and tea are included. Alcohol will be available for purchase.
Note: A vegetarian option (vegetable, tofu and mushroom stacker on a bed of barley with
roasted tomato coulis) is available for the main course, but must be indicated when ordering
your tickets.
Dress: Military personnel: Mess dress (DEU 2 or 2B) Civilian personnel: Formal evening
attire
I Wear the Red Beret
There have been many paths in my life
Countless roads from which to choose
Countless courses to navigate
Which way should I go?
In the end, there was only one path to travel
The road of the Red Beret
Red for the maple leaf of my country
Red for the passion of its people
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Red for the blood my brothers and sisters have shed
This road I'm on is one that gives me honour and pride
It's my duty as well as my privilege
It's my dignity and my sense of right and wrong
It keeps me going and prods me on
"Hold fast!", it calls out - "Stay the course!"
I belong on this road - It's who I am
I wear the Red Beret!
I belong to a family
I go where I'm sent
I protect the lives of others
I lay down my life for my country
Though this road may be my last
I wouldn't have it any other way - It's who I am
Besides, in the end all roads lead home.
So hold your heads high.
Think of me often but also think of this . . .
Take the risk, take the road, follow the path.
Grasp it and hold it forever and today.
For me it was ‘ever vigilant’ - the path of the Red Beret.
mp field platoon reunion, sept 25, 26, 27
peterbourgh, on
FULL ANNOUNCEMENT IN DECEMBER’S SITREP!!!
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“Our 75th Anniversary Veterans Memories Project…IS Just Tell Our Stories”
Some How I Think I Have Heard This ALL Before
Well… It also depends on who is telling the stories anyways. For we have
great story tellers with in our midst, even though their story IS NEVER told the
same way twice, or frankly as anyone else remembers it. Yes, Ladies and
Gentlemen, YOU KNOW WHO YOU ARE  too!
We tried a couple of years back to do a DVD of memories and stories by
our veterans. However much to our surprise many of you were suffering a bit
stage fright when asked to put it on video or commit it to tape… some of you were
also not sure that the statue of limitations had run out completely.
Understandable. The fact that some of you may or may not still have warrants out
is also understandable…but I am only joking….REALLY!
Our 75th Veterans Project is simple. Please join in on any one of our 75TH
Anniversary Events and share YOUR Story. Your Tales. Your Legend. Does not
have to be written down or caught on camera. But share it never the less. The
Summerside Reunion showed that the MP Vets are the best holders of our
traditions, and the best source of what exactly what makes us proud to “Wear the
Red Beret” and the “Thunderbird”.
In the past I know from personal experience that a bunch of us together
“quaffing an ale & telling some lies” was a lot like the old show “Laugh In”. One
would finish a story, take a drink, and another would start another tale. Laughter
was non stop…except when it became time to Honour and Remember our empty
chairs. This year let us not wait for that certain time. Our stories were their lives.
Our Legends were their accomplishments. Our memories are here. Our time is
NOW!
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The Military Code Of Ethics: US Army MP’s
I am a Soldier of the United States Army;
I am of the Troops and For the Troops;
I hold allegiance to My Country and Devotion to Duty above All Else;
I Proudly Recognize my Obligation to Perform my Duty with Integrity,
Loyalty and Honesty;
I will Assist and Protect my Fellow Soldiers in a Manner that is Fair,
Courteous and Impartial;
I will Promote, by Personal Example, the Highest Standards of Soldiering,
Stressing Performance and Professionalism;
I will Strive to Merit the Respect of Others Seeking No Favour because of
Position but, Instead, the Satisfaction of a Mission Accomplished and a Job
Well Done.
PLEASE NOTE:
Should you wish to find out more about a certain event we ask you to contact the OPS for that
event. Should you have an event that you wish to have promoted in “Mention in DISPATCHES”
or the SITREP please drop us an e-mail. Events published in “Mentioned in DISPATCHES”
must contain the purpose of honouring our history, traditions, and promoting communications
for/between our members and other Veterans/ORG of the Military Police Trade.
NEXT SITREP DECEMBER 6th, 2014. Next “Mentioned in DISPATCHES” February 2ndth
2015.
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