August 2007 - Fort Garry Horse

Blue & Gold
In This Edition:
A Visit To Normandy
p. 1
The Fort Garry Horse Community
Heritage Programs
p. 2
The Honourable William John Mckeag p. 3
Thanks, Frank
p. 4
Sydney Dennis White Davy
p. 5
P. J oan Gillis(nee Armstrong)
p. 5
John Skynner
p. 6
Thank you for the support….
p. 6
Fort Garry Gateway Park
p. 7
Ghost Squadron News Item
p. 7
Play Ball!
p. 8
FGH Visit to France 2007
p. 9
MFRC Luncheon
p. 10
About
p. 10
The Garry’s on TF 1-08 with 2 PPCLI
p. 11
Korea War Cease Fire, 27 Jul 2007
p. 13
Geographical Features named after
Manitoba Soldiers Killed in Korea
p. 14
A Letter On Behalf Of The Regiment
MFRC Luncheon
p. 16
Far From Home But Still Far From
Kandahar
p. 17
FGH Assn Newsletter – Blue & Gold –
August 2007 Edition
p. 18
Royal Canadian Armoured Corps Association
(Cavalry) Student Bursary Program
p. 19
What are Red Fridays?
p. 19
Welcome back to all, Officers, NCO’s,
and of course - troops !
p. 20
FGH Regimental Association Update
p. 20
Regimental Update
p. 21
Up Coming Events
p. 22
McGregor Armoury
551 Machray Avenue
Winnipeg, Manitoba
R2W 1A8
Ph: 204-833-2705
Facta Non Verba
(Deeds Not Words)
Vol. 57 No. 1
August 2007
A Visit To Normandy
By Doug Williamson
Well we arrived in Normandy about 7 am on the sixth
June. Four of us this time, myself and Dave plus a
couple of friends, Brian who came last time and Rob
who was interested to see the place.
The commandos ceremony didn’t start until ten so
I took the opportunity to move down to Bernierres
where I presented the first display. We had met a guy
on the ferry who had noticed the flowers in the car and
asked us if we were to be involved in any ceremony’s,
he had his young son with him and asked if he might
come and watch. He found the commando’s ceremony
very moving. There were only 7 veterans from 48
commando this time but their numbers were swelled
by what appeared to be Royal Navy Auxiliary although
of this I can’t be sure. This brought their numbers up
to eleven. As usual the commandos officer did us all
proud and read the names of all the fallen at Saint
Aubin including all the Garries and North shore.
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The school children you can see in the beach picture
were a party from Paris on a school trip. I find it very
moving to see that the French people take so much
trouble to see that their younger generations are taught
to appreciate the sacrifices made to ensure their freedom.
After the beach ceremony 48 commando marched
down to their memorial in front of the hotel for another
service and wreath laying. They then proceeded down
to the Garry memorial where I joined the mayor of
Saint Aubin and we both laid our flowers. After the
ceremony I was approached by a young Dutch couple
who were so proud of the Canadians that if it had been
in my power I would have granted them citizenship on
the spot, alas all I could do was to point them in the
direction of the Juno Museum to further their education.
Our last display was then taken up to the cemetery at
Beny where I laid it on the central cross.
The Fort Garry Horse Community Heritage
Programs
By Gary Solar
In June 1978, the Fort Garry Horse initiated a
cooperative program to perpetuate and strengthen the
regiment’s historic relationship with the community
throughout the province. The regiment would attempt to
use its limited financial resources as “seed” funding to
lever support from other agencies to achieve this goal.
The results were entirely successful. The following
heritage projects were initiated and completed.
Re-establish the Fort Garry Horse Regimental Museum
at McGregor armoury, with assistance from the Fort
Garry Horse Association and the unit Senate. Five
I am sorry that I can only afford three displays of students were hired for this project. The museum has
flowers, but even if I could afford more I do not have been in operation since that year and was depicted in a
the room in my car to carry them. I often think that I full page feature in the Free Press on June 2, 2007.
would like to lay a bunch at Carpiquet but would then
have to choose at which of the three monuments I would Replace the bronze dedication plaque, which was stolen
lay it. I went to Rots for a look see and was surprised from the legislature and return the Fort Garry Horse
to find that the place where my father, Paddy Hutton, regular regiment’s guidon (Battle honours flag) in a
Denis Henry, Gordon McGuinnes Frank Davidson secure case to the foyer of the Manitoba legislature. It is
and a few others had planted a couple of maple trees
the only regiment guidon on display at the legislature,
by the church has been turned into a car park, but the
signifying the importance of the relationship of the Fort
monument on the wall is still in the little garden.
Garry Horse with the history of the city and province.
From here we headed out to American territory to show
my mates where the yanks had landed at st Mere Eglise Complete the renovation of Major Boulton’s Manor
and worked our way back east to catch the overnight in Russell Manitoba. The FGH perpetuates “Boultons
ferry back to Blighty. Of course we stopped at the Juno Scouts”, a Manitoba unit who fought against Riel in the
Centre and checked the 41 Garry’s bricks. All present North West Rebellion. Riel captured Boulton when he
and correct.
attempted to rescue some of Riel’s prisoners and held
I was pleased to see that they have now added another Boulton prisoner at Upper Fort Garry. Boulton was
line of kiosks and that amongst the latest additions are later released. Boulton’s Scouts then captured Riel at
the Canadians killed in Afghanistan. Let me reassure Batoche. The home had been restored initially be Mr.
you all that Canadian sacrifices do not go unnoticed in Gerry Webb at a cost of $100,000.
England!
Two students were hired to initiate guided tours of
Best wishes to all,
Winnipeg’s Historic Downtown area for July & August.
The tour included the historic Fort Garry Gateway
Doug Williamson
Park. The tours continue today in the exchange district.
Illustrated brochures were published of the Historic
Sites Walking Tour, the Fort Garry Horse Museum,
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Bolton Manor and the Upper Fort Garry Gateway Park
and the restoration of the gate and park.
The Fort Garry Gateway Park restoration project; The
Fort Garry Horse with a Community Assistance grant
through DND for $10,800 and donations from their
association and Senate of $5,000, the City of Winnipeg
Parks & Recreation Dept for $33,000, the Agreement
for Recreation Conservation (The ARC Program)
$50,000, and the Downtown Winnipeg Association
with the sale of commemorative coins which raised
over $52,000 in 1977 to help finance the restoration
of the gate and then in 1978 marketed the Red River
Indian Dollars. The coins carried the emblem of the
Fort Garry Gate and were minted to recognize the
contributions made by Manitoba’s native people.
All these efforts helped to fund the restoration of
the Upper Fort Garry gateway park and as it was the
ARC’s opening project of the $17 million dollar ARC
riverbank heritage program, the Gateway Park received
considerable media attention. With a combined budget
of over $100,000 for phase I of a three phase program,
the plan was to eventually rebuild the fort at its original
location and restore the birth place of Winnipeg as a
historic monument to the pioneers who established
this gateway to the Canadian west. Phase one of the
restoration project was officially launched on July
31st 1978 when an archaeological team from Parks
Canada (Prairie Region) began excavations in search of
remnants of the Fort’s original walls. The discoveries
have provided clues to the way of life within the Fort
and will facilitate an accurate reconstruction of the
Fort. The Fort Garry Gate and the park was restored
and opened to the public in the late summer of 1978.
The condition of the Gateway Park has deteriorated
over the last 29 years and needs to be restored again. To
meet that challenge the Fort Garry Horse is prepared to
step up to the plate again, hopefully with the assistance
from our friends in the community to help maintain our
birthplace, so that generations of new citizens can learn
from the heritage of our pioneers.
THE HONOURABLE WILLIAM JOHN MCKEAG
HONORARY COLONEL (RETIRED) CM, OM,
BCOMM, LL.D Yesterday, Thursday, August 23, 2007,
I (Dawn) lost my best friend and already I miss him
terribly. Jack and I were 15 and in high school when we
met, and we married seven years later. We’ve had 57
wonderful years connected together, blessed with four
children who have given us five grandchildren. A small
string of precious jewels! Jack was so proud of them
all and never too busy for their activities be it school,
hockey, soccer, swim meets or horse riding. He was
always ready with a little walking around money for
his Buds . Jack was born on March 17, 1928 to Thomas
and Isabelle McKeag in Beresford, Manitoba. He was
18 months old when a horrendous car/train collision
at Chater, Manitoba killed his mother and older sister.
Jack was miraculously thrown clear of the wreckage,
unharmed. Thomas consented to the adoption of his
son by his cousin George H. McKeag and his wife
Elizabeth (Biggar). So, Jack grew up in Winnipeg
attending Queenston, Robert H. Smith and Kelvin
High Schools, graduating in 1949 from the University
of Manitoba with a Bachelor of Commerce degree. He
joined the family business, Security Storage Ltd. and
remained there until it was sold to British Traction in
1956. He then founded McKeag Harris Realty, later
known as McKeag Realty. Jack was a generous and
giving guy who volunteered in his beloved Winnipeg
in a great variety of causes. He was a life-long member
of St. Andrew’s River Heights United Church. He
thoroughly enjoyed The Kiwanis Club through which
he made many lifelong friends. He served as President
of the Winnipeg Chapter and as District Governor of the
prairie district. The family excursions to the Kiwanis
conventions across Canada and the United States still
rank highly as memorable and often hilarious outings
for his children. Happenings and mis-happenings
were all too frequent when traveling with Jack. His
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reluctance to ask for directions took the family miles
out of the way at times. Jack served on many Boards
of Directors nationally and internationally. In 1973
he was appointed Honorary Colonel of the Fort Garry
Horse, enthusiastically supporting the regiment until
his retirement in 1998. He was also a BIG booster
of the Winnipeg Jets. While president of the Club,
1976 to 1977, he spearheaded the first Save-The-Jets
campaign. Jack loved duck hunting and joined Ducks
Unlimited (Canada) in 1976, serving as president from
1984 to 1985 and as Chairman from 1986 to 1988.
Jack loved politics and worked locally for the Liberal
party through many elections. Although he supported
Paul Helleyer vs. Pierre Trudeau, he revelled in the
excitement of that 1967 leadership convention. He even
ran for office provincially in 1958. I am happy to say he
lost! In 1970, Prime Minister Trudeau appointed Jack
as Lieutenant-Governor of the Province of Manitoba, a
position he held for six years. He was deeply honoured
to have served Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth. He truly
enjoyed those years, travelling throughout the province
attending fairs, festivals and bonspiels. Over 36,000
people from all walks of life attended functions in
Government House. Quite a few Royal visitors also
stayed at 10 Kennedy Street, and many an entertainer
had an after-the-show party with the McKeags. Jack
and I have been keen travellers and have visited a
great part of the world. Always, however, Winnipeg
was home. The favourite place for the family to gather
each summer was at Granite Lake, Ontario. This past
winter, for the first time since 1980, Jack could not
spend three months in Sarasota, Florida. He was too ill
to travel. During his illness, Jack was looked after by
a legion of grand and caring people at Grace Hospital,
and by the Home Care and their Palliative Care Unit:
Janet, Chris, Jennifer, Heather, Cathy, Manuel and
Giles. Jack called him his Angels! This wonderful crew
made it possible for him to die at home surrounded by
his loving family. A special thanks to Dr. T. Morgan
and Colonel Max Ryan. Jack leaves behind may
relatives, friends and family: his wife Dawn Campbell
McKeag and four children: Janis (Clifton Richardson)
of Anguilla, BWI, Darcy (Tom Crawford) of Sarasota,
Florida, Kelly (Renee Chateauneuf) of Winnipeg, and
Douglas (Onalea Gilbertson) of Calgary. He also leaves
his grandchildren: Scott and Colin Rees of Winnipeg,
and Stephanie (Alan Samuels), Shannon and Matthew
Crawford of Sarasota, Florida. As well he leaves his
niece or almost daughter Ellen Kowalski, and sistersin-law: Sharon (Vic Naimish) of Calgary, Sonya
(Scott Wright) and Dilly (Bill Burns) and Pat Drewett
of Winnipeg and brother-in-law Keith Campbell of
Edmonton. There are also many cousins in the Biggar
and McKeag families. A funeral service for Jack will
be held on Wednesday, August 29, 2007 at 1:00 p.m. at
St. Andrew’s River Heights United Church, corner of
Kingsway Avenue and Oak Street. Pallbearers: members
of the Fort Garry Horse. Flowers are gratefully declined.
Donations in tribute to Jack’s memory and can be made
to either Hospice and Palliative Care Manitoba, 2109
Portage Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R3J 0L3, or the Jack
McKeag Family Scholarship Fund, payable to the Fort
Garry Horse (FGH) Foundation, 551 Machary Avenue,
Winnipeg, MB R2W 1A8. NEIL BARDAL INC. 9492200 www.nbardal.mb.ca
Thanks, Frank
By Laurie Mustard
Breaking news from Pte. Young of 17 Field
Ambulance:
“Members of the Canadian Forces who work out of
Minto Armouries would like to extend our thanks to
a gentleman named Frank. On Tuesday, we went as a
group of 15 to Montana’s Restaurant on Empress Street.
There were members from Royal Winnipeg Rifles, 17
(Winnipeg) Field Ambulance, Queen’s Own Cameron
Highlanders, Fort Garry Horse, and 17 (Winnipeg)
Service Battalion.
“Following lunch, while attempting to pay, we were
told, ‘You’re good to go.’ A customer named Frank
had displayed his generosity and support to our serving
members by spontaneously taking care of our entire
bill. Thank you again, Frank, and thank you all for your
support toward our troops.” Classy.
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Sydney Dennis White Davy
March 29, 1935 - May 30, 2007
Peacefully, with his children & grandchildren by his
side, Sydney passed away at his home at the age of
72.
lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Intrepid
Society, by contacting new President, Derrick Davy
@ 282-2140.
Sydney was predeceased by his father Sydney Robert,
mother Emma, eldest child Kathleen, and first wife
Sheila. He is survived by his children Syd (Susan),
Liza (Bruce), James, Ivy (John), Derrick (Angie),
grandchildren Stephen, Pamela, Bryden & Katlyn,
former wife Edith, and his special friend Lucie.
Sydney was a sports enthusiast. In his 20’s he was
the undefeated Manitoba/Saskatchewan lightweight
boxing champion. He spent many years coaching
hockey and football, and passed on his love of those
sports to his sons. He worked for the CNR for 35
years. After his retirement, he devoted all of his
time to the Royal Commonwealth Society, of which
he was President for 20 years. His greatest passion
and his proudest achievement was as founder and
President of the Intrepid Society. Sydney was an
expert on the history and great accomplishments
of Spy Master Sir William Stephenson - “The Man
Called Intrepid”. Disappointed that our city had
not done anything to honor the man Sydney always
called “Winnipeg’s greatest citizen”, he took it upon
himself to ensure that Sir William was remembered
and honored. With the help of his fellow Intrepid
Society members, CSIS, and the CIA, Sydney lobbied
to get the City to name the Keewatin Street City
Library after Sir William. He also commissioned
his close friend, world renowned sculptor, Leo
Mol, to create the statue of Sir William that sits on
Memorial Blvd. Sydney and fellow Intrepid Society
members accomplished many of the tasks they set
out to accomplish honoring war veterans. He was
very pleased that they were able to raise the funds
necessary to move the Angel & Soldier statue from
its original obscure location, to the grounds of Deer
Lodge Centre, so that the war vets it was created to
honor could enjoy its beauty.
P. J oan Gillis(nee Armstrong)
Peacefully on July 13, 2007, our beloved mother
Joan passed away at Grace General Hospital. She
was predeceased by her loving husband Bruce of 51
years and her parents Harry and Pearl Armstrong of
Inglis, Manitoba. Joan grew up in Inglis claiming
the National Grain Elevator office annex as her
playhouse. She graduated from Rupertsland Girls
School in Winnipeg and then worked as a lab
technician before marrying Bruce. While raising
her four children, she worked at Clinic Optical for
over 19 years. Joan was actively involved in both the
Granite and Fort Rouge Ladies Curling and was on the
Past Presidents Curling Association Executive. She
joined the Chown Guild in 1973 and was very active
working functions such as Book Market and Teddy
Bear Picnic. She was involved with Beta Sigma Phi,
the parent group of the Lord Selkirk Boy Scout Pipe
Band, Scotland 1981 Tour, and the Winnipeg Singers
Board. Joan led an active and robust life, graciously
donating her time, talents and extraordinary energy.
Famous for her cooking, her pies were always in
demand at bake sales. She was involved in many
activities at Westminster United Church and prior to
that Oxford United Church. She always joined her
husband Bruce at West Winnipeg Rotary Chicken
Fry and other functions, and they were founding
members of the FOASIIYE group. Mom really
enjoyed her cottage and friends at Clearwater Bay
Viewing will be on Monday from 7:00 - 8:00 pm at but most of all she enjoyed spending time with her 11
Wheeler Funeral Chapel, 211 Regent Ave. W. 224- grandchildren attending their many activities. Joan
1525. Internment on Tuesday, at 1:00 pm at Little is greatly missed by her children, their spouses and
Britain Cemetery on Main St., Lower Fort Garry. In
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her grandchildren; daughter Barbara (Tim McManus,
Caitlyn, James, Andrew); son Douglas (Diane, Kara,
Heather); daughter Donna (Harry Kopeschny,
Virginia, Wendy, Raymond and friend Mia); son
Keith (Christine, Webb, MacPherson, Finlay), and
many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.
Cremation has taken place and a memorial service
celebrating Joan’s life will be held on Wednesday,
July 18 at 11:00 a.m. at Westminster United Church,
Westminster and Maryland. In lieu of flowers,
donations may be made to the Children’s Hospital
Research Foundation. THOMSON FUNERAL
HOME 669 Broadway - 783-7211 www.thomsonfu
neralhome.com
John’s ashes were buried in Beechwood Cemetery,
close to the entrance, just the other side of Poet’s
Hill. They are on a high piece of ground, from
which Parliament Hill can be seen, and only about
six or eight paces from those of Tommy Douglas. A
National Historic Site, Canada’s National Military and
RCMP Cemetery, the burial site of Conservative Prime
Minister Robert Borden and former Tory politician
Gov-Gen Ramon Hnatyshyn, Beechwood seems an
appropriate place for someone who loved Canada and
was deeply interested in his country’s political life.
Wasn’t able to make it to the wake (seems they were
calling it a reception) because of another commitment,
so can’t tell you anything about it.
John Skynner
by Borys
Came back from John Skynner’s funeral a
little while ago. As promised, a report follows.
John had been master of his Masonic Lodge a couple
of times, so it was held as a Masonic ceremony.
First time I had attended one. Very simple: a couple
of hymns, a couple of prayers, a short eulogy and
then the members of the lodge filed past the urn in
tribute. Each one of them wore lodge regalia and had
a sprig of evergreen (cedar, in this case) tucked into a
breast pocket. One supposes, as a symbol of eternal life.
The Masons made up about half those present, with
family, friends and co-workers the rest. The chapel at the
funeral home could not hold all of us, so some watched
the ceremony via cc tv in another room. At a guess,
there were easily 250-300 people present. Of those, Gil
and Roxanne were the only ones whom I really knew.
One of the hymns sung was the American Battle
Hymn of the Republic. Not, at first blush, something
a confirmed royalist like Skynner would revel
in. However, aside from the title, there is nothing
republican about it. Instead, it conveys a message
of dedication and hope. The pace and tone, while
dignified, are not funereal. Rather, it the whole
effect is uplifting. Think he would have liked it.
Thank you for the support….
I want to thank you all for the sympathy cards and for
those who were able to support me during the tough
time when my mom passed away.
For those who don’t know, the Association offers
support to all it’s Garry family whenever there is an
illness or death - no matter how long it’s been since
you’ve actually been in the Regiment. For instance,
I received a card from the Association when my mom
was ill and then again when she passed away in July
– Rose Ogden currently undertakes the ‘card sender
position’. Thank you Rose for your good work.
Those knowing Garrys also pass on the news to other
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members. This resulted in a great deal of support from
my Garry family and I truly appreciated it.
Facta Non Verba,
Barb McManus
LCol
Fort Garry Gateway Park
By Gary Solar
Some twenty years ago the City of Winnipeg, in
cooperation with the Association for Recreation
Conservation (The ARC Program), the Down Town
Business Association , the Fort Garry Horse with a
grant from the federal government heritage department,
funded the restoration of the Upper Fort Garry gateway
park as the ARC’s opening project with a combined
budget of $100,000 as phase I of a three phase project
to eventually rebuild the fort at its original location
and restore the birth place of Winnipeg as a historic
monument to the pioneers who established this gateway
to the Canadian west.
recommended the sale of the property to apartment
developers. They should invite interested parties to
bring forth any justification to preserve our heritage
and to fully review the city’s original plans for the
restoration of our most important birthplace. This is
where the community was founded, where the hopes
of immigrants came for a better life and where they
created this metropolis of today.
This property is not just an asphalt parking lot, it is
where the west of Canada was opened to thousands of
new Canadians, where dreams were fulfilled, where a
new life for families were given hope. I doubt that any
city in North America would squander this once in a
lifetime opportunity to remember history.
The city fathers years ago put aside the land for
Assiniboine park. What far sighted community leaders
were these, and we all thank them for their wisdom.
Now we have elected representatives who would
literally give away our heritage for a few dollars. Let
us hope that this bad decision is halted and referred to
council for a full debate.
Phase II was to be undertaken when the city owned
property at 100 Main street and the parking lot on
Ghost Squadron News Item
the south of the property became surplus to the cities
By Cliff Bell
needs and when the negotiations with the owners of
the curling club resulted in an exchange of property to Saturday June 2 the Squadron at was a part of the
place all the parcels available on the block within the annual parade held by the Transcona Legion, all went
ownership of the city.
well and the CO and vehicle operators were invited to
lunch after the parade .
Phase III was to incorporate the property known as
Bonnycastle park south of the assembled city block to Sunday June 3rd saw two parades attended by the
complete the four parcels into the final development of Squadron , Col: Vadeboncouer commanded Squadron
the complete restoration of the fort walls , turrets and at the Morris , MB Legion Parade . Comrade John
all the buildings including the original government Catellier
house. The east and south east walls of the fort would
be outlined in cobblestone across the sidewalk and Who is the Morris Legion President was unable to
roadway of Main Street.
display his Jeep vehicle for lack of a driver , however
For the city to abandon these plans and ignore their
heritage is incomprehensible. It took 100 years for
these properties to become available for this once in
a lifetime opportunity to remember the history and
heritage of the pioneering founders of this city.
City council should immediately put a six month hold
the final decision of their property committee who has
things went well .
Back in Winnipeg Captain Coley Kaufman , WO ll
Jim Bailey , Tpr Don Bailey , Voluntary Driver, Jake
and RSM Cliff Bell all met at the McGregor Armoury
vehicle compound at 9 am. In preparation for the West
Kildonan Legion Memorial Parade slated for 11 am.
After “First parading “ the vehicles a traditional action
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prior to any vehicle movement was done , we moved some of the unit and Association leadership.
out of the compound onto Machray Avenue where the
The group included Honorary Colonel Gary Solar,
Command Vehicle stalled in front of the armory.
the Commanding Officer, Lieutenant-Colonel Ken
Jim came forward and advised Cliff he would give him Sabatier and the Regimental Sergeant Major Chief
a push-start , doing so advanced the Command vehicle Warrant Officer Hugh O’Donnell. We also had
to the corner, it was there that Jim suffered a stroke and Honorary Colonel Bob Vanderwater who is also the
Coley phoned (on cell) 911 Emergency. Jim was taken chair of the Provincial Council for the Canadian
to Seven Oaks Hospital and held in ICU until released Forces Liaison Council (CFLC). As a result, the CFLC
later. Moments of concern until the ambulance arrived covered a substantial portion of the food costs for
and immediately after we returned the faulty vehicle the evening and Honorary Colonel Bob Vanderwater
to the compound and proceeded to Hartford and Main personally assumed 50% of the costs for the drinks for
St rendezvousing with WK Legion. The Parade and the evening. Master Corporal Wally Montgomery was
services held at the Kildonan Park was well attended supposed to bring his employer, but unfortunately his
and went well . Once again “Garrys” came through employer was sent to Calgary on short notice, so he
although faced with adversity . Jim Bailey served brought his son Riley instead. Riley was the hit of the
with the Garries Post war years for years and had been evening. Captain Ryan Pownall did bring his employer
the Association its Treasurer, Jim is now 67 years had from Wawanesa Insurance, and he had a great time
suffered a heart attack a number of years ago and in spite meeting all of the Garry’s present. Corporal Pohorecky
of this has been one of the Associations and the Ghost brought his shift Sergeant from the Winnipeg Police
Squadron’s most dedicated VOLUNTARY members. Service, and weren’t we all surprised to find out that
Two vehicles which afford the FGH Regiment and The he used to be a Garry in 1990! So, we all had a great
Family a great deal of NOTERIETY are the Newsletter time catching up on old times and old names. Corporal
and The Ghost Squadron. If you are able to volunteer Buhr was also there and brought both his girlfriend and
occasionally as a driver for the FGH GS phone us at his mother along. They both had a great time as well.
Col V @ 1-204-388-6127 r contact Cliff by e-mail Lieutenant Barclay Smorang’s father joined us for the
evening as Lieutenant Smorang continues to conduct
address bell [email protected].
his pre deployment training for his upcoming mission.
And then we had the mother, father and grandmother
for Sergeant Cam Bois. His grandfather served in
Play Ball!
the FGH during the war, and his grandmother was
obviously very proud of Sergeant Bois. I was also there
The FGH Regimental Association recently hosted as the Association President.
an evening at the Winnipeg Goldeyes for several of
our soldiers and either their families or their civilian At the beginning of the seventh inning, the Commanding
employers. The soldiers, families and employers were Officer made a presentation to each of the employers
treated to a box suite complete with full hospitality. present. They were presented with a framed copy of
They all felt like they were VIPs for an evening, and of the newest poster which commemorates the FGH and
course they are always VIPs to us!
a plaque within the frame stating it was in appreciation
Last year, MTS was holding a charity auction, and a
part of the auction was for a night at the box suite they
own with the Winnipeg Goldeyes. I put in a bid and
won at a price of $510. A normal night for one of these
suites goes for $850, so we got a great deal on it. The
Association then approached the unit to make use of
the suite. As a result, we had a mixed group attend
of soldiers, families, employers, CFLC and of course
of their support to the Canadian Forces and The Fort
Garry Horse. The CFLC also presented each of them
with a ball cap and a thermos. As Master Corporal
Montgomery’s employer could not be present, the
Commanding Officer plans to go to his office in the near
future and make these presentations to him separately.
All had a good time and enjoyed the hospitality of the
evening. The Goldeyes ensured we had a good time,
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by winning the game by a score of 10 -5 against the
Edmonton Cracker Cats. The game was the same
evening that the Winnipeg Blue Bombers were hosting
the Hamilton Tiger Cats and so we also had that game
on the television in the suite and watched while we
anxiously waited for Milt Stegall to score his record
breaking touchdown, which of course he did. Thus, it
was a great night for Winnipeg all around.
to hopefully obtain seating in the review stands to
enjoy the annual “Bastille Day” parade on the Champs
d’Eysees. Unfortunately, Col Rousseau regretted that
the request was too lake to be accommodated.
However, as usual Frank Davidson, being the
resourceful FGH Intelligence Officer, made one phone
call and the result was we had an excellent venue at
the Travelers Club at 25 Champs Elysees. In fact, our
The CFLC thought that we might be on to something venue had champagne and a buffet. So even when
with this idea and may be exploring it for possible things don’t go right the Garries seem to make the end
future ways to host the employers of reservists. Once result better than planned. Especially when Frank &
again, it’s the recce out front and the Garry’s leading Izaline Davidson at the hosts.
the way.
Frank & Izaline hosted guests at their home at a village
called Montfort d’Amaury about a half hour outside of
Paris. Frank is the only Garry we know of who still
FGH Visit to France 2007
keeps the “Cavalry” history of the Garries alive by
riding almost every day in the Bois de Ramboillet just
The annual invitation was extended to the Fort Garry outside their village. All in all a wonderful visit and
Horse regiment by Dr. Frank & Izaline Davidson, hopefully we will be able to make the visit next year.
longtime friends and supporters of the “Garries”,
to attend a series of events in Normandy France,
including the ceremonies to celebrate the liberation
of Louvigney by the Fort Garry Horse in 1944. On
July 17th, 2007, the local authorities in Normandy
organized an excellent service at three locations, and
the ceremonies were presided over by the mayors of
Louvigny and Bretteville sur Odon. Three wreaths were
laid by Honorary Major Frank Davidson and Honorary
Colonel Gary Solar along with local authorities and the
18th Signals Regiment from the French Army, who are
responsible for security in the area.
The mayors spoke at each location and thanked the
Canadian and Allied forces for their sacrifices in the
liberation of their country. The Mayor and Council of
Bretteville sur Odon hosted a reception at their town
hall for some 150 of the persons who attended the
services.
A visit to the Juno beach followed the events on the
next day which was followed by a fine luncheon hosted
by the Davidson’s.
Earlier that week on the 14th of July, we had contacted
Colonel Georges Rousseau, in Paris, who is the senior
military advisor to the Canadian Ambassador in France
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Blue & Gold
MFRC Luncheon
About
Captain Greg Johns, FGH, Adjt
On Tuesday 15 Aug the Regiment hosted the friends
and families of those deploying to Afghanistan on TF
1-08 as part of its deployment support program. The
evening was organised by Captain James McLellan, the
deployment support officer, and featured a number of
information pamphlets along with two guest speakers.
Primarily it served as an excellent opportunity for the
unit and the families to get together and meet to pass
along any information and discuss any concerns before
the soldiers are deployed.
WO Roger Coutu, who has just recently returned from
a nine month deployment working in the planning cell
at the Canadian Task Force HQ, began the night with a
presentation recounting his experiences in Afghanistan.
He talked about the current political and military
situation and gave an overview of the geography
that those deploying on TF 1-08 will encounter. He
provided an excellent glimpse of what a typical day
is like for those serving in Afghanistan describing the
different dining halls, the recreation centers and what
the living quarters were like. The family members
were able to ask him a number of specific questions on
everything from what the food was like to how did he
communicate with his family while overseas. It was
then a chance for Sandra Doody, the family separation
and reunion coordinator from Winnipeg MFRC to
address the audience. She described the different
services that MFRC would be able to provide to the
families and answered questions from the audience.
The night concluded with a meet and greet in the WO’s
and Sgt’s mess hosted by the FGH association. All in
all it was an excellent night and everyone was very
pleased with the attendance and enthusiastic support
for the soldiers of the unit.
Purpose
There exists a whole galaxy of bloggers (see a listing
at:
http://www.blogscanada.com/politics/ ) who
comment on every press release, rumour, question
period issue and bowel movement on Parliament Hill.
We check many of them regularly. They all serve
a purpose, but it is not our purpose. We want to go
beyond the day-to-day issues to look at exactly why
they are issues, where they originated, what we’ve done
in the past about them (and each issue has a past) and
what they mean for us today.
The Blogger
Borys Gengalo has been a historian, community
organizer, army officer, political hack and management
consultant. Among other things. Indeed, as his brother
has said, anything but an honest job. He has informed,
entertained and bored his friends and companions with
a particular, thoughtful take on the politics of the day.
Many of them, perhaps hoping for a respite from his
pronunciations, have encouraged him to write those
thoughts down for a wider audience. So go blame
them. Policy on Comments: Respect
This blog is dedicated to developing discussions that lead
to a better understanding of our political and security
system. We want to discuss issues, not engage in namecalling contests. Comments that challenge accepted
ideas are welcome. Comments that question both the
premises and facts within posts and other comments
are welcome (ok, maybe not exactly welcome, but
accepted). And let’s make this clear: questioning
means raising issues of fact or interpretation. It does
not mean name-calling or personal assaults. Flaming
will not be tolerated. Contact Us
If you want to contact us direct, feel free to do so:
[email protected]
- 10 -
Blue & Gold
The Garry’s on TF 1-08 with 2 PPCLI
the Garry’s are doing on TF 1-08 upon our return from
Wainwright, and as always we will continue with the
proud tradition of
FACTA NON VERBA.
We are all doing well, we have been training since 15
may 07 in CFB Shilo with 2 PPCLI, when we got here
we were put in Combat Support Company, which is
Sgt Cameron Bois
now Headquarters Company, and started our training.
Some of the first things we noticed was the PT they
love to run, so we run a lot, all of us are in much better
shape then when we first arrived. Our training started
with a four day review of section attacks (good bye
May long weekend) this was supervised by Sgt Vince
Adams 2 PPCLI a very intense individual, but lucky
for the FGH members he was a Garry with Sgt Bois
in the late 80’s so not quite as bad for us. Then we had
a two week exercise with our Company, this included
a section raid on a compound, and then a platoon raid
on a compound with Lav III’s firing us in and artillery
landing, what to us seemed very close but we were
sure was well within the safety parameters. This for
us was a whole new experence and one the members
Mcpl Shaun Duguay, Sgt Cameron Bois, Cpl Gordon May
will not forget. Once we finished the exercise we had
a four day weekend given to us and the boys headed
home to see family and socialise. We continued training
with various skills from 50cal, convoy drills, first aid,
PWT 4 (fighting in urban areas), etc all very beneficial
to the Garry’s with all this training coming to an end
around the end of June and some tensions getting high
we started our summer block leave (which came at a
good time for most of us). The Garry’s arrived back
from summer leave fresh and ready to train and we had
a week of actions on drills with instructors from 1CER
including casualty extraction, IED action drills, etc (our
very own Sgt Fisher was one of the instructors so we
The Garry’s on a hilltop
were happy to see another Garry as much as he was to
see us). With the start of August beginning we are off
to Wainwright for the next two weeks to train with our
counterparts in the NSE and this should prove to be a
valuable exercise. We will keep you all posted on how
- 11 -
Blue & Gold
- 12 -
Blue & Gold
Korea War Cease Fire, 27 Jul 2007
- Mr. Bob Tuck
- Introduction of the President of the Korean
Community of
Master of Ceremonies – Mr. Barry Burns CD
Winnipeg & Manitoba – Mr. Won Duck Sohn
MC – Special salute to those Veterans in attendance that
MC - Welcome everyone to this special event.
were wounded and lost their limbs during the War WW2 – Bill Neil representing The War Amps
We start the evening by asking everyone to bow their
of Canada
heads and we will have a moment of silence for our
WW2 - Ernie Copper, War Amps of Canada
fallen comrades who have laid down their lives before
WW2 - George Peterson, Hong Kong Veterans
and during the Korean War, also those on Peacekeeping
(Prisoner of War)
missions, Kuwait & Afghanistan as well as other
Korea - Charlie Pond, Korea Veteran & War
countries our Canadians servicemen have volunteered
Amps of Canada
to serve in.
Afghanistan – Cpl Ryan E. Elrick, 17 Wing
Cdn Armed Forces
MC - They shall grow not old as we that are
left grow old, Age shall not weary them, nor These five men are in attendance here this evening and
years condemn At the going down of the sun we thank them for their service. We also have Claude
and in the morning
Petit, President of the National Aboriginal Veterans
We will remember them.
Association (NAVA) from Saskatoon with us this
evening. He was wounded in Korea along with his good
Response: “WE WILL REMEMBER’’
friend Charlie Pond.
(7 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.)
MC – Reading of the names of those that lost their
lives in Korea 1950-53/55 (please see insert). Lament
to be played by piper during the naming of the fallen
comrades.
There are many other Associations in attendance this
evening and we thank them for coming and sharing
this evening with us. We hope that we will be joined
by other Korea Veterans from Unit 17 who are doing a
Candle Light Vigil at Brookside Military Cemetery at
the Korea War Cairn.
MC - Introduction of the Guest Speaker Retired
Lieutenant General Ray Crabbe CMM, MSC, CD, BSc.
General Crabbe will speak on the Korean War.
MC - Gen Crabbe, presentation of Certificates of
Appreciation on behalf of the Korea Veterans to two
MC – Introduction of Rep of Veterans Affairs Ron
deserving people in attendance.
Labbe?
Introduction of Local MLA Bonnie
MC - Introduction of the Korean Dancers from the
Korzeniowski (Proclamation
Korean Community in Winnipeg.
KoreaVeterans Day 27 Jul).
- Introduction of Councilor Scott Fielding
MC - Thank the Korean Dancers, the Ladies Auxiliary
representing
for putting on a light lunch for our guests and friends
St James/Westwood
and turn the evening back to the Legion Entertainment
- Introduction of The Royal Canadian Legion
Committee.
Manitoba and
North West Ontario Provincial Command
Please ensure you have a ticket for the door prizes
President or his/her Rep Mrs. Betty Zarney, the which will be drawn during the lunch break. (2 clocks
President of The Royal Canadian
of one of Canada’s most decorated Aboriginal soldiers,
Legion Branch #4
Sgt Tommy Prince MM).
- Introduction of the President of KVA Unit 76
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Blue & Gold
Enjoy the rest of the evening. Thank you to President,
Betty Zarney for allowing this event to take place at
RCL Br #4.
For more information on the Sgt Tommy Prince MM
MemorialKVAUnit76gotohttp://koreavetsunit76.bl
ogspot.com/
Geographical Features named after
Manitoba Soldiers Killed in Korea
We remember all those that lost their lives in Korea
from 1950-53/55 but this evening, we pay tribute to
the men from Manitoba who gave their lives in Korea,
were remembered on Sunday Sept 13, 1998 and will
be thereafter. A Cairn was dedicated in memory of our
fallen Comrades on Sept 13, 1998 at the KVA National
Convention held here in Winnipeg. At that time, the
Provincial Government also presented the next of kin
Certificates naming geographical features after those
Manitoba Veterans whose names appear on the Cairn
and the Department of Veterans Affairs presented the
Canadian Volunteer Service Medal to the next of kin of
those that did not receive the medal. Gnr Wright from
Neepawa, Manitoba who lost his life in the Canoe River
Train Wreck en route to Korea on the 21 Nov 1950 was
also recognized, as well as the other 16 Gunners from
Camp Shilo that lost their lives on that fatal day. The
following are those that lost their lives from Manitoba
during the Korean War.
RCR
RCA
PPCLI
R22eR
SH 80022
PPCLI
SH 4831
Cpl BLACK, Walter A
2
Pte BRUCE, William E
1
H 800191
H 800175
Pte BRYDON, Harry B
Gnr CRAIG, Robert A.
SH 4901
Pte CROMPTON, Kenneth
3
SH 61667
Sgt DESJARDINS, Joseph A.G.
3
H 800152
L/Cpl EDGLEY, Harold V.
2
2 PPCLI
PPCLI
SH 4942
SH 5215
QOR of C
SM 9709
PPCLI
H 800129
PPCLI
SL 4745
RCR
SH 800277
RCAMC
H 800265
PPCLI
SH 61952
RCA
SH 493
PPCLI
H 800276
PPCLI
SH 4943
R22eR
H 80030
SH 13071
SH 62331
LSH
SH 62112
PPCLI
ZD 3815
R22eR
M 800232
PPCLI
H 80003
PPCLI
SB 153871
RCR
H 80015
SH 4778
PPCLI
SM 9538
PPCLI
SM 17956
RCR
K 800311
RCR
SH 23473
PPCLI
SB 154368
RCA
SB 7611
RCR
H 800136
PPCLI
H 800196
PPCLI
- 14 -
H 800117
Pte FARAND, Adelard J. 3 PPCLI
Rfn FERLAND, Norman P.
2
Pte GARAND, Edmond H.
1
Pte GLADUE, Leo P.
2
Pte GOSSELIN, Louis J.
I
Pte HALL, Reginald A.
Pte HANSEN, Alfred E.R.
2
L/Bdr HELMAN, Allan J.
Pte LAVALLEE, Henry J.
3
L/Cpl LETKEMAN, Theodore N. 2
Pte MAJOR, William J.
1
Pte McPHAIL, Walter C. 2 PPCLI
Pte MORRIS, Frederick RCE
Tpr NEUFELD, Leonard G.
Pte NORMAND, Emile
1
Lt PAILLE, Albert E.
2
Pte PEARSON, Royal B.
2
Pte POLNUK, Adam E.
3
Pte ROBERTS, Louis G.
2
Pte SIHA, Tony
Pte SMALL, Glen C.
2 PPCLI
3
Pte STANLEY, Donald L.
1
Pte STOWE, Charles L.
2
Pte STRACHAN, William L.
2
WO 2 TRENTER, George S.
2
Gnr TRUTHWAITE, Murray A.
Pte WHITE, Ronald O.
1
Pte WOTTON, Thomas B.
2
Gnr WRIGHT, William D.
RCA
(Canoe River Train Wreck)
Pte WYLIE, Lloyd K.
2
Blue & Gold
RCR
REST IN PEACE
RCR
RCA
PPCLI
R22eR
PPCLI
SH 80022
PPCLI
SH 4831
Cpl BLACK, Walter A
2
Pte BRUCE, William E
1
PPCLI
RCA
H 800191
H 800175
Pte BRYDON, Harry B
Gnr CRAIG, Robert A.
SH 4901
Pte CROMPTON, Kenneth
3
SH 61667
Sgt DESJARDINS, Joseph A.G.
3
H 800152
L/Cpl EDGLEY, Harold V.
2
SH 4942
SH 5215
QOR of C
SM 9709
PPCLI
H 800129
PPCLI
SL 4745
RCR
SH 800277
RCAMC
H 800265
PPCLI
SH 61952
RCA
SH 493
PPCLI
H 800276
PPCLI
SH 4943
R22eR
H 80030
SH 13071
SH 62331
LSH
SH 62112
PPCLI
ZD 3815
R22eR
M 800232
PPCLI
H 80003
PPCLI
SB 153871
RCR
H 80015
SH 4778
PPCLI
SM 9538
PPCLI
RCR
2 PPCLI
RCR
PPCLI
Pte FARAND, Adelard J. 3 PPCLI
Rfn FERLAND, Norman P.
2
Pte GARAND, Edmond H.
1
Pte GLADUE, Leo P.
2
Pte GOSSELIN, Louis J.
I
SM 17956
Pte STOWE, Charles L.
2
K 800311
Pte STRACHAN, William L.
2
SH 23473
WO 2 TRENTER, George S.
2
SB 154368
Gnr TRUTHWAITE, Murray A.
SB 7611
Pte WHITE, Ronald O.
1
H 800136
PPCLI
H 800196
Pte WOTTON, Thomas B.
2
H 800117
Gnr WRIGHT, William D.
RCA
(Canoe River Train Wreck)
Pte WYLIE, Lloyd K.
2
REST IN PEACE
Pte HALL, Reginald A.
Pte HANSEN, Alfred E.R.
2
L/Bdr HELMAN, Allan J.
Pte LAVALLEE, Henry J.
3
L/Cpl LETKEMAN, Theodore N. 2
Pte MAJOR, William J.
1
Pte McPHAIL, Walter C. 2 PPCLI
Pte MORRIS, Frederick RCE
Tpr NEUFELD, Leonard G.
Pte NORMAND, Emile
1
Lt PAILLE, Albert E.
2
Pte PEARSON, Royal B.
2
Pte POLNUK, Adam E.
3
Pte ROBERTS, Louis G.
2
Pte SIHA, Tony
Pte SMALL, Glen C.
Pte STANLEY, Donald L.
2 PPCLI
The Cairn at Brookside Cemetery dedicated on the
12 Sept 1998 during the Korea Veterans Convention
hosted by KVA Unit 17. Names of the 37 Manitoban’s
that lost their lives are listed on front of Cairn.
3
1
- 15 -
Blue & Gold
Listed on the back of the Cairn are the names of the 17
Gunners that lost their lives in the Canoe River Train
Wreck en route to Korea via Fort Lewis, Washington on
the 21 Nov 1950. Gnr Wright from Neepawa, Manitoba
was one of those Gunners that lost his life. He also has
a lake named after him.
REST IN PEACE
RCL BR. No. 4
KVA UNIT 76
CELEBRATING THE CEASE FIRE
OF THE
KOREAN WAR - 27 JUL 1953
KOREA VETERANS ASSOCIATION UNIT
#76
AND
THE ROYAL CANADIAN LEGION
ST. JAMES BRANCH #4
JULY 27, 2007
Location
1755 Portage Avenue
Winnipeg, MB
1900 – 2030 hrs
A Letter On Behalf Of The Regiment
Dave Atwell
the center piece of our units crest and is an integral part
of our unit’s identity.
For the past 95 years, thousands of individuals have
worn that symbol proudly while serving their country
in WWI, WWII, Korea, and numerous subsequent UN
and NATO led missions. In January of 2008, another
30 of our soldiers will be heading to Afghanistan while
wearing this symbol.
Any proposal for the site must take into account
the history of Upper Fort Garry, the beginnings of
Winnipeg and of our Regiment. The dignity of that
history must be maintained. It would seem that our
city leadership has forgotten it’s history and does not
even recall the proposals by City Council of 20 years
ago to turn this area into a historical park. Recently,
while discussing the formation of a Senior’s Advisory
Council, Mayor Katz stated that the seniors of Winnipeg
provide a wealth of experience and knowledge, and are
the bridges connecting our rich history to a promising
future. Our Association has many seniors within it,
most of which are Veterans. They have expressed
a concern that the history of Winnipeg is not being
remembered as “rich” and that the bridge can never be
built if we throw it away.
Winnipeg has an excellent history of those who
looked forward to represent the entire community.
Assiniboine Park and The Winnipeg Foundation are
two excellent examples of this. Keeping this historical
site accessible to all of Winnipeg’s citizens as well as
all those interested in the history of Winnipeg, instead
of accessible to only those few who could afford an
apartment in the complex, would be an excellent way
for City Council and Mayor Katz to show their support
of using our rich history to build a bridge to a promising
future.
Therefore, I believe it would be best if there were a
On behalf of The Fort Garry Horse Regimental freeze on this property to allow for open debate and
Association, I. would like to express a great deal of public consultation on its future. The impact of this
concern over the recent decision at City Hall to permit decision is very large, as it is a 100 year decision. It
the construction of a new apartment complex at the site took 100 years for this land to become available, and it
of the Upper Fort Garry Gate. Not only is this the only will take another 100 years before it is available again.
remaining site of the birthplace of Winnipeg, but is the
symbol of our storied Regiment, The Fort Garry Horse, Facta non Verba.
which is Winnipeg’s only Cavalry unit. The Gate forms
- 16 -
Blue & Gold
David Atwell
President
The Fort Garry Horse Regimental Association
of Planning, Property, & Development, to keep me
apprised of this matter. Should you wish to contact him
directly his phone number is 986.6306.
Dear Mr. Atwell:
In closing, I would like to thank you once again for
taking the time to share you opinions on this with me.
Thank you for recent email wherein you outlined your
views on the Upper Fort Garry Gate and your concern Yours sincerely,
about the sale of the land adjacent to it.
Sam Katz
The North Gate of Upper Fort Garry is contained in MAYOR
a public park. This park will remain in public hands,
and will not be obstructed from view. In terms of the
100 Main Street property, the portion of the property
Far From Home But Still Far From
being sold to Crystal Developers is outside of the fort
Kandahar
footprint and is located on the southwest corner of the
property, adjacent to the intersection of Assiniboine
By Lt Clay Smorang
Avenue and Fort Street. The portion of the property
containing the Upper Fort Garry footprint will remain “What have you got there Paul?” someone asked. There
in public ownership, and is clearly visible from Main were three of us sitting at the table in the mess and he
Street, Assiniboine Avenue, and from Bonnycastle was setting down his plates when we noticed a piece of
Park. The Upper Fort Garry footprint will not be
paper.
obstructed from public view from those areas by the
proposed residential building.
“I’m filling in a comment card. We should be on a 5
Further to this, it should be noted that the entire 100 week ration plan, I shouldn’t be able to expect a meal
Main Street site falls within the jurisdiction of the based on what day it is... Not that I’m complaining
Province’s Heritage Resources Act. This Act requires about roast beef on Mondays or Fish Fridays, there’s
that prior to any disturbance or digging on a site, a just an amount of predictability I don’t like.”
permit must be issued by the Minister responsible for
Heritage, and that any disturbance or digging must be There was an odd feeling like the movie “Groundhog
under the supervision of a registered archaeologist. Day”, in the air; The realization that we had sat and
The Heritage Resources Act contains provisions which had conversations like this days and weeks prior. Even
require a Heritage Resource Impact Assessment to be though we had just come off of leave and had got away
made, and if any archaeological remains or artifacts are from the mess hall, we zipped back together like a
encountered, they must be handled in accordance with familiar sweater. Humour always ruled the mutual
the Heritage Permit issued for the site.
inconvenience of having to sit at the mess table, forging
bonds out of the sublime and ridiculous situations.
Whereas I understand you passion for our City, its
Complaining about roast beef was no different.
history and the substantial contributions of The Fort
Garry Horse Regiment it is important to note that the
There are always unique problems and situations we
Fort Garry Gate will not leave public ownership nor
come across with a diverse group like this. The PRT
will public access to it be diminished.
is a Mr. Potato-head organization, if Ottawa wanted
By copy of this memorandum, I have asked the another arm or second set of eyes, that person could
manager of this project, David Marsh, Enhanced Land potentially show up in the weeks ahead. It’s stitching
Marketing Program Administrator of the Department in a new piece that is difficult. To look around the
table at any meal shows all 3 branches of service
- 17 -
Blue & Gold
plus unique trades within. This table proved to be
no exception: Paul, the Navy Log Officer; next
to me Phil, the Air Force contracts officer; and
across the table Tom, the PsyOps Infantry Captain.
FGH Assn Newsletter – Blue & Gold –
August 2007 Edition
By Dave Atwell
Wow – it’s hard to believe it’s only been three months
Most of us have been drawn in to this job from far since we got the last newsletter out. It has been a very
reaching points, and not just LFWA. So, stories from busy time, during what is normally supposed to be a
home always allow us to leave the confines of the base quiet time. And of course, the unit is now preparing to
through someone talking about their home. We all gear back up in September, and the “busy” season gets
shared the stories of leave; like Tom’s kids playing with ready to start again for the Garry family. Since our last
sparklers on Canada Day and Paul trying to arrange for a newsletter, we’ve had a few key things keep us busy.
successful first meeting of his parents and future In-laws.
The first is the issue of the proposed development around
the Upper Fort Garry Gate. Included in this issue is a
The distance also afforded us the opportunity to visit with
copy of the letter I sent on behalf of the Association
family and friends in Alberta who were long ago removed and the response from Mayor Sam Katz. There is also
by geography. The “what you did on the weekend” a letter from Honorary Colonel Gary Solar on what has
stories have changed over the weeks. What used to occurred in the past, and what we could do now about
be movies and shopping, have now started to include this issue. The Winnipeg Free Press columnist Gordon
“I visited my... that I haven’t seen in so many years”. Sinclair also had some interesting columns about this
issue, including an outstanding proposal to do a land
I joined the trend visiting relatives in Canmore on swap that would resolve this. Unfortunately, I do not
August long. I never get tired of the mountains. I have a copy of these to include in this newsletter.
saw places in town I hadn’t visited in a while. At
one particular watering hole, I came across one chap We also hosted an evening at the ballpark for soldiers,
who had stopped for lunch (unlike me, there for a their families and their civilian employers. This went
taste of the 23 beers on tap). We exchanged small extremely well and please take the time to read the
talk and upon finding out my role in the taskforce, article on this event.
he actually peppered me with intelligent questions
The first family support event was held recently for
and ideas. A pleasant surprise, someone who prided
those families of the Garry soldiers currently preparing
himself on making sure he got the facts right.
to go overseas. This event was very well attended and
an outstanding success. Between the Association and
He wanted to know where the best reporting was on the Unit, we intend to keep these going on a monthly
the mission and I wrote down some of my online news basis to support our soldiers and their families.
favourites on a napkin. “Few news sources report on
the good things, but I would like to find out about Our next monthly meeting is scheduled for Sunday,
them” he said.
September 16, 2007 at 15:30 hours (3:30 pm) in the
Warrant Officers’ and Sergeants’ Mess at McGregor
I had started a binder weeks ago filled with statistics of Armoury. Please come out and join us at our monthly
Canadian accomplishment and articles on how bad the meetings and get involved in your Association and help
Taliban are, my sales pitch if you will. Of course I had us to continue supporting the unit.
left it back with family to read. On this occasion I was
happy that I didn’t need it. I was happy to see that there
are some people that will look deeper into a story and
can put politics aside to hear what is going on.
- 18 -
Blue & Gold
Royal Canadian Armoured Corps
Association (Cavalry) Student Bursary
Program
The Royal Canadian Armoured Corps Association
(Cavalry) has started a new student bursary program.
There are three prizes available of $2,500, $1,500
and $1,000 for a total of $5,000 up for awarding.
Applicants must occupy an Armour occupation or
trade. Officer applicants must be held on the active
strength of a Regiment of the Corps or the Armour
School, or be a life member of the RCAC Association.
All Other Ranks are eligible, regardless of their place of
employment. Applications must be in by September 30
of each year. Full details and the application form can
be found at the RCAC Association (Cavalry) website at
www.rcaca.org and then click on the Tangible Benefits
link along the left hand side.
What are Red Fridays?
By Butch Shaen
and felt as if he knew them after many conversations
in so few days. I turned back to him, extended
my hand, and said, Thank you. Thank you for doing
what you do, so my family and I can do what we do.
Upon landing in Canada the pilot stopped short of
the gate and made the following announcement over
the intercom. “Ladies and gentlemen, I would like to
note that we have had the honour of having Sergeant
Steeley of the Canadian Armed Forces join us on
this flight. He is escorting a fallen comrade back
home to his family. I ask that you please remain in
your seats when we open the forward door to allow
Sergeant Steeley to deplane and receive his fellow
soldier. We will then turn off the seat belt sign.”
Without a sound, all went as requested. I noticed the
Sergeant saluting the casket as it was brought off the
plane, and his action made me realize that I am proud
to be a Canadian.
So here’s a public Thank You to Our Military Men and
Women for what you do so we can live the way we do.
Red Fridays
Last week, while travelling in Canada on Very soon, you will see a great many people wearing
business, I noticed a soldier travelling with a RED every Friday. The reason, Canadians who
folded flag, but did not put two-and-two together. support our troops used to be called the “silent
majority.” We are no longer silent, and are voicing
After we boarded our flight, I turned to the soldier, who our love for God, country and home in record
had been invited to sit in First Class (across from me), breaking numbers. We are not organized, boisterous
and inquired if he was heading home.
or overbearing. Many Canadians, like you, me and
all our friends, simply want to recognize that the vast
No, he responded.
majority of Canada supports our troops. Our idea of
showing solidarity and support for our troops with
Heading out, I asked?
dignity and respect starts this Friday -- and continues
each and every Friday until the troops all come
No. I am escorting a soldier home.
home, sending a deafening message that -- every
Canadian who supports our men and women afar, will
Going to pick him up?
wear something RED . It could be just a small RED
No. He is with me right now. He was killed in RIBBON.
Afghanistan. I am taking Him home to his family.
By word of mouth, press, TV -- let’s make Canada on
The realization of what he had been asked to do, hit me every Friday a sea of RED, much like a homecoming
like a punch to the gut. It was an honour for him. He football game in the bleachers. If every one of us who
told me that, although he didn’t know the soldier, he had loves this country, will share this with acquaintances,
delivered the news of his passing to the soldier’s family co-workers, friends, and family, it will not be long
before Canada is covered in RED and it will let our
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Blue & Gold
troops know the once “silent” majority is on their side
more than ever, certainly more than the media lets on.
FGH Regimental Association Update
The first thing a soldier says when asked, “What can
we do to make things better for you?” is ... “We need
your support and your prayers.”
I just thought I’d drop a line and give everyone a little
update on some of the ongoing activities in the Assn.
Let’s get the word out and lead with class and dignity,
by example, and wear something RED every Friday.
The Aug Blue & Gold – I’ve just sent out an e-mail
asking for article submissions to the key members of
the Regt family. Article submissions are due for Aug
14 and we plan to stuff envelopes on Tue, Aug 28/
07. If you have any articles or would like to help stuff,
please do so.
The Upper Fort Garry Gate – in response to the issues, I
sent a letter to the Editor of the Free Press and to Mayor
Katz. I have just received a response from the Mayor.
I need to digest it more and then I will probably send
him a follow-up letter.
Welcome back to all, Officers, NCO’s, and
of course - troops !
By CWO Hugh O’Donnell
I hope that all of you got enough rest this summer
to be looking forward to the challenging year that
lies ahead. Those of you that attended courses have
for the most part done proud by the regiment from
everything that I have heard so far.
Job well done to you !
I’ll take this chance to remind all of you about the
“No Coffee around the Parade Square” 15 minutes
before training starts rule (usually 1845 hrs and
0745 hrs). Because so many of my “usual suspects”
are away I’ll be watching for the guilty to help fill
out the parties to conduct garbage sweeps, paint the
Lynx and Sherman, etc, later this year. Remind your
fellow troopers that the RSM and the SSM’s will be
watching !
I’ll stay away from the training calendar points that’s for the CO and your Squadrons to fill you in
on. I will however mention that the absence of so
many of our regular NCO paraders has left many gaps
to fill. This is not a disaster, but rather an opportunity
for those of you who have ever said “When I’m in
charge.....” down in the JR’s and who actually have
the courage and the willpower to try to be a leader to
step forward and shine. “Lead me, Follow me, or Get
out of my way !” should be your motto.
Facta Non Verba troops !
BY Dave Atwell
Goldeyes Game – this is scheduled for this Fri, Jul
27/07. The unit has a few soldiers with their civilian
employers attending, along with some deserving
soldiers and some family members for FGH soldiers
preparing to go overseas. The Canadian Forces Liaison
Council has agreed to support this event by assisting in
the food costs. I will be there representing the Assn.
So far, this looks like it will be an excellent event.
Family Support – the first family support event for
the soldiers preparing to deploy overseas is scheduled
for Wed, Aug 15/07 at the WOs & Sgts Mess. Family
response has been overwhelming with 100% of the
families contacted by the Unit Deployment Support
team planning to attend. The Unit has organized a
brief by the Military Family Resource Centre from
17 Wing and Tracy Moreau will also provide a
presentation. The Association will support this with a
few of the executive attending and by providing $50 as
approved in our budget for coffee and dainties.
Next Assn Monthly Meeting – I don’t have the unit
calendar yet, but I’m going to suggest that we hold the
next monthly meeting on Sunday, September 16, 2007
at 15:30 hours (3:30 pm) at the WOs & Sgts Mess. This
will be the “default” for this meeting unless you hear
otherwise.
As you can see, even though it’s summer, the
Association remains very active as usual.
I hope you have all been having an excellent summer so
far, and I look forward to seeing you all again shortly.
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Blue & Gold
Regimental Update
now help with deployed family support, reunions, or
By LCol Ken Sabatier
providing bursaries for soldiers, we have been able to
grow and retain a dedicated group of young men and
Being a Reservist has always been more demanding that
women through the collective effect of these efforts.
most people know or acknowledge, yet the commitment
of each and every individual soldier affects the defense Our Regiment’s task over the next 18 months is to grow
of Canada. The demands made of Reserves over the to a strength of 180 soldiers. The Army wants us to grow
past year for recruiting, training and ensuring soldiers to 250 soldiers by 2012. Each person affiliated with the
are prepared for operations often hung in the balance on Regiment needs to understand the level of contribution
the commitment of one or two soldiers and leaders. to Canada’s active defense that Reservists now play
What each member of the Garry family contribute is considerable. Each person’s contributions within
to the unit, or the support of our soldiers, matters the active Reserves and the extended elements of the
considerably to how capably our country defends itself. FGH family have an effect on our Regiment’s overall
The contribution of the extended Garry family to our capabilities. I look forward to providing an update on
Regiment’s role and mission cannot be understated the status of our soldiers deploying to Afghanistan in
either. Whether it is the Davidsons overseas helping us the next newsletter, after they go through their final
recognise the historical significance of our Regiment’s paces at the Canadian Maneuvre Training Centre in
achievements in Europe (and delightfully hosting September and October.
numerous members of the Regiment over the years), or
the hundreds of Garrys that have worn the badge and “Up the Garrys!”
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Blue & Gold
Nov 18 – Assn Monthly Meeting
Up Coming Events
FGH Regimental Association
Sep 16 – Assn Monthly Meeting
Nov 25 – Grey Cup
Nov 28 – Deployment Support Family Event
Sep 19 – Deployment Support Family Event
1226 FGH Army Cadets
Sep 15 - Army Cadet Tag Day
Oct 14 – Assn Monthly Meeting
Oct 15 - CO’s Parade - Recognition of Retiring Cadets
Oct 17 – Deployment Support Family Event
Oct 21 - MB / NWOnt Fall Parade and Awards at
Minto Armoury
Oct 28 – Winnipeg Military Tattoo
Nov 11 – Remembrance Day
Nov 16 – Cambrai Dinner
Oct 28 - Sir Sam Steele Legion Ladies Aux. Fall Tea
Nov 11 - Remembrance Day at McGregor and Legion
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