The Shield ~ Le Bouclier

april / avril 2011
Vol. 45, No. 4
Ribbon Cutting at the Canadian Forces
Museum of Aerospace Defence
Article by: Lieutenant Leah Pierce, PAO
Photo by: Corporal Robert Ouellette,
Imagery Technician
From controllers to comptrollers,
approximately 50 members of 22 Wing/
Canadian Forces Base (CFB) North Bay
were on hand Thursday, February 24th, 2011
for the ribbon cutting and re-opening of the
only aerospace defence museum in Canada.
“It is important for operators to understand our
heritage,” explained Colonel François Malo,
22 Wing Commander, “to gain wisdom, to
learn from our mistakes and to ensure victory
against our enemies.”
Although the official public opening will not
occur until later on this spring, schools and
youth organizations such as Girl Guides
will receive personal letters of invitation to
experience the improved museum.
Major Mark Roberts, Commanding Officer of
51 Aerospace Control & Warning (Operational
Training) Squadron, brought students and
instructors from his squadron to the unique
museum. “Fundamental for the next generation
controllers is to understand the history of the air
defence occupation; I intend to build a visit to
the museum into the course schedule.”
Among the students from 51 Squadron were
life-time supporters of the museum. Rita
Patry, President of 422 Royal Canadian
Air Force Association, Nipissing Wing, has
volunteered with members of the 422 over
the years and was impressed with the new
look and layout of the displays. “A lot of work
has been put into refurbishing the museum.”
For student Second-Lieutenant Sean
Anderson, his favourite section of the museum
was the Underground Complex display.
Lieutenant-Colonel François Beaupré,
Chairperson of the Museum Board and
Wing Administration and Technical Services
Officer, was excited to see people back at the
museum. “I’m impressed with what it looks
like, how much it has improved. We have
certainly established a strong building point.”
Group appointments are currently being
taken. Please call CF Museum of Aerospace
Defence at 705-494-2011, extension 2261.
For more information, visit the new website
at www.wix.com/aerospacedefence/cfmad.
Photos (top) Rita Patry, President of 422
Royal Canadian Air Force Association,
Nipissing Wing, looks on as Captain Olivier
Lefrancois, Museum Director (left), receives
help from his daughter Layla and Colonel
François Malo (right), 22 Wing Commander,
during the ribbon cutting ceremony that
marked the official re-opening of the Canadian
Forces Museum of Aerospace Defence.
(Bottom) Rita Patry, deep in thought,
as memories of the BOMARC missile in
North Bay come flooding back during her
visit to the Canadian Forces Museum of
Aerospace Defence.
The Shield ~ Le Bouclier
22 Wing North Bay,
Hornell Heights, ON P0H 1P0
Phone: 705-494-2011 (2633) Fax: 705-494-2177
Email: +22 Wg The [email protected]
The Shield/Le Bouclier, is the unofficial newspaper of 22
Wing North Bay, published monthly under the authority
of the Wing Commander, Col F. Malo, in accordance with
CFAO 57-5. Opinions and editorials expressed herein do
not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Canadian Forces,
the Wing Commander or Shield staff.
Wing Commander: Col F. Malo
Editor in Chief : Capt J. Derenzis
Managing Editor: Mr. M. Giddens
Graphics & Production: Mr. M. Giddens
Distribution: Mrs. D. MacDonald
2
The Shield / le Bouclier
april / avril
History Corner - Diamond Anniversary, Second World War
There is a common, popular misconception
that Royal Canadian Air Force Station North
Bay was formed during the Second World
War. But the air base didn’t exist until 1951.
In October 1939, the Canadian government
announced that North Bay’s fledgling airport,
open less than twelve months, was in
contention as a British Empire Air Training
Plan site. The BEATP (eventually renamed
the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan)
was the biggest international military aircrew
training operation in history, teaching and
evaluating over 131,000 pilot, navigator,
wireless (radio) operator, air gunner and flight
engineer recruits from around the world.
North Bay’s location presented an allure for
air training. It was far from major built-up
areas and its skies uncluttered by air traffic,
altogether a reasonably safe arena for
young aircrew hopefuls attempting to learn
the tricky art of military flying. Airport Road
connected the city and airport in November
1939. In 1940, a small glass ‘greenhouse’ was
constructed atop the airport’s administration
building in anticipation of air traffic control, to
handle the sudden proliferation of airplanes.
But the government decided not to include
North Bay in the Plan.
The airport’s sole service to the air force
over the next two years was much like a
roadside truckstop – providing fuel, rest and
food to aircrew flying across the country.
By 1942, so many aircraft were stopping at
North Bay that No. 124 Squadron, RCAF, set
up a seven-man detachment at the airport.
Under the command of a Flying Officer
(today’s rank, Lieutenant), two aeroengine
mechanics, an electrician and an airframe
mechanic re-fuelled, serviced and repaired
the aircraft. A driver and vehicle mechanic
saw to the detachment’s staff car, aircraft
towing tractor and 1000-gallon fuel truck (the
staff car was eventually replaced by a more
practical “Truck, Panel, Delivery”).
The biggest impact on the airport during the
war was delivered by the Royal Air Force.
In November 1940 a grand, dangerous
experiment had been conducted. Masses of
new, desperately needed aircraft shipped from
North America for the war effort in Britain were
being lost in the Atlantic Ocean, their cargo
vessels sunk by German U-boats. To reduce
these losses an idea was proposed to ferry
aircraft instead -- fly them over the ocean.
Inspired, the Royal Air Force commenced
large-scale ferrying of aircraft. A training
school for ferry aircrews was set up
at Dorval, Quebec, outside Montreal.
However, by 1942 the airspace at Dorval
had become crowded with military aircraft.
A new training site was sought.
North Bay’s uncluttered skies and freedom
from major built-up areas were perfect.
On June 1st, 1942, ground around the airport
was cleared and tents set up for RAF Training
Command’s Trans-Atlantic Training Unit. Five
Hudson bombers arrived shortly afterwards.
Over the next three years, the unit -- renamed
No. 313 Ferry Training Unit in 1943 -- taught
hundreds of aircrew, in three to four-week
courses, the techniques and procedures of
trans-Atlantic flying, and how to solve in-flight
problems and emergencies.
The size of the unit isn’t known. However,
although a formal air base hadn’t been
established, the RAF expanded the airport
dramatically. A new double hangar was built
(still in use today), as well as a Works and
Stores Building (i.e., Supply), guard house,
salvage store, recreation building, hospital,
fire station and fire protective system, coal
compound and general purpose building.
NORTH BAY’S AIRFIELD POST-WW2 SEEN AT GROUND LEVEL. North Bay airport’s
administration building/terminal is in the foreground. The ATC ‘greenhouse’ is visible on top.
The single hangar was built in 1939 to accommodate Trans-Canada Air Lines and air force
aircraft. The double hangar and surrounding buildings in the background were constructed
by the Royal Air Force for its ferry training establishment.
The Canadian Department of Transport
added water and power supply systems, plus
provided clearing and grading for the hangars,
aprons and roads.
In 1943, three air traffic controllers were
posted to the airport -- the first ATC at North
Bay -- to coordinate airfield flying operations
from the glass ‘greenhouse’ built atop the
admin building in 1940.
Nine more Hudsons joined the original five, TRAINING STATUS BOARD FERRY
along with two B-25 Mitchell bombers and COMMAND NORTH BAY:“Since the slightest
a Tiger Moth biplane. Lancaster bombers, mistake or emergency over the Atlantic could
Mosquitos and Dakota transports were mean death, Ferry Command aircrews received
three to four weeks training at North Bay in all
taken on in 1944.
aspects of trans-oceanic flying, from dealing
The RAF personnel melded seamlessly into with an engine failure to navigating in storms.”
North Bay. They loved the fresh wildness of
the region, an exotic experience for many of
the British. Area citizens welcomed them as
part of the community. The Unit responded
in kind, such as aiding blood donor drives,
entering a team in the local softball league,
and participated in shooting (won) and golf
competitions (consolation prize).
In September 1945, the war over, the RCAF
detachment disbanded. No. 313 Ferry
It was a breath-taking proposal. In 1940 Training Unit followed suit in October. Their
transoceanic flying was raw and new. Aircrew facilities were donated to the Canadian
had no navigation aids to steer by except the government. With mass flying finished, the
Sun, Moon and stars. Search-and-rescue air traffic controllers were posted out. North
was nonexistent. Mechanical and electrical Bay’s airport returned to its sleepy, low-key
breakdowns in aircraft were as common as pre-war state, and so it would remain until
crashes in the Daytona 500 today. Below birth of the air base in 1951.
there was nowhere to land except the cold,
“DID YOU KNOW?” TRIVIA
gray North Atlantic.
Nevertheless, on the evening of November North Bay had one of the best air safety
10th, 1940, the experiment began -- seven records of the war. Despite the thousands of
twin-engine Lockheed Hudson bombers lifted military flights transiting through North Bay
off from Gander, Newfoundland, en route for and training for trans-oceanic flying, there
Britain. The odds were deemed so poor that were just eleven crashes, only one fatal. On
watchers expected only four of the bombers 28 April 1945 a No. 313 Ferry Training Unit
B-25 Mitchell crashed, killing pilots Flying
to make it.
Officer Leslie William Laurence Davies of
Yet the following morning, engines sucking England and Flight Sergeant William Gribbin
their last gallons of fuel, all seven bombers of Scotland. Both men are buried in North
arrived safely in Ireland.
Bay cemeteries.
NORTH BAY’S AIRFIELD POST-WW2: North Bay airport’s administration building/
terminal is beside the solid white circle, left. The single hangar was built in 1939 to
accommodate Trans-Canada Air Lines and air force aircraft. The double hangar and
surrounding buildings were constructed by the Royal Air Force for its ferry training
establishment. Lake Nipissing is at the top of the photo.
LONG RANGE NAVIGATION TRAINING
CLASSROOM FERRY COMMAND NORTH
BAY : “Long range navigation training, at
North Bay. Precise navigation was critical;
aircrews that erred over the Atlantic were
usually never seen again.”
RETURN FROM NIGHT FLYING TRAINING
FERRY COMMAND: “Ferry Command
aircrew return from night flying training over
the ‘ocean’ of Northern Ontario.”
NAVIGATION TRAINING SUN POSITION
SHOTS WITH SEXTANTS: “Navigation training
with sextants and the Sun. Today’s aircraft
can call upon GPS, computer systems and
radio aids for navigation, but Ferry Command
aircrews had only the Sun, Moon and stars to
guide their way across the Atlantic.”
Ethics Corner
Hello again Ethics Corner readers! Hopefully
we will soon see signs of April showers – as
we all know the flowers won’t be far behind.
As the snow melts and spring finally arrives,
I would encourage all of you to take some
time to think about ethics. The Defence
Ethics Program is useful for all members
of the Defence Team. With its three core
principles and six obligations, it is a program
that gives people a lot to think about. If you
have questions about the Defence Ethics
Program I encourage you to get in touch with
your Unit Ethics Coordinator – we are here to
help! Once more, I invite you to take a look
at two challenging ethical scenarios. You are
welcome to send me your feedback. I can be
reached at [email protected]
vendor is FedEx and should be used whenever
possible.” If you choose FedEx Ground, you
will be required to pick up the package at a
central receiving office located a few miles
from the base. If you choose FedEx Overnight,
the package will be delivered directly to the
base, but the shipping charge will be twice as
expensive as FedEx Ground. Which shipping
method do you choose?
Scenario #2:
The end of the fiscal year is just a couple of
weeks away. You have $5,000 remaining in
your discretionary funds account. If you don’t
spend the money before the end of the fiscal
year, you worry that next year’s budget will
be reduced by the remaining amount. You
know that in the past, it was common for units
Scenario #1:
to spend remaining funds on non-perishable
You have been tasked to purchase an iPad items that likely would be needed later. You
and portable keyboard for your CO. When have an opportunity to purchase some office
making the online purchase, you have several furniture at a deeply discounted rate for a
shipping options. The DND’s purchasing new building that will not open until next year.
policy states: “When arranging the method of Next year’s capital budget has already been
delivery, should seek the most reasonable and approved to cover these purchases at full
inexpensive terms that assure delivery of the cost. When will you purchase the furniture?
goods when they are required. Our preferred What factors influenced your decision?
22 Wing preps for Relay For Life.
Accolades not just for
seasoned members
Article and photos by: Lt Leah
Pierce, Public Affairs
The Relay For Life event
in North Bay attracts, on
average, 2,000 ‘relayers‘
and volunteers annually to
raise money for the fight
against cancer. It is the
Canadian Cancer Society‘s
signature event, which gives
the community an opportunity
to join together to remember
those we have lost to cancer,
to celebrate with those
individuals and their families
who are surviving the disease
and to fight back against
cancer through prevention,
screening and research.
Major General Yvan Blondin, Commander of 1 Canadian Air Division addresses recipients
of the Canadian NORAD region annual award at a ceremony in the atrium of the Billy Bishop
building in Winnipeg. These recipients will further compete in the NORAD NorthCom Annual
Awards Ceremony in Colorado Spring April 18th-21st, 2011.
By David Elias
This year’s Canadian NORAD region annual
award ceremony in Winnipeg saw an interesting
twist. On March 17th awards were announced
and presented honourably by the Commander
of 1 Canadian Air Division, in the usual fashion.
But as the Commander addressed the audience
in the atrium of the Billy Bishop building, his
speech offered a notable admission:
“Three years ago we believed that our only
saving grace in the Air Force was people with
experience,” said Major General Yvan Blondin.
“We saw our older people leaving and there
were many new members arriving, but no one
in the between who had the experience that
we thought was so important.”
“But,” he said, looking to the to the younger
award recipients. “You have demonstrated
that our newer members can do an outstanding
job. Much of our recent success is because
of you guys. I am proud to say that you have
stood up to the challenge.”
3
The Shield / le Bouclier
april / avril
made meaningful contributions to the NORAD
mission since her arrival.
Fellow recipient, Corporal Gregory Janes,
also from 22 Wing and member of the 21
Aerospace Control and Warning Squadron is
also fairly new to the CF, having joined in 2005.
“Thank you for coming here,” said MGen Blondin
in his speech. “Your skills and excellence have
been put to the test and we plan to put you to the
test again. In the meantime, we will push to have
your efforts recognized beyond just in Canada.”
Relay For Life
2011
Join us
7:00 p.m.,
Friday June 3rd
until
7:00 a.m.,
Saturday June 4th
at the 22 Wing
Athletic Field
“A Field of Dreams a
World Without Cancer”
Major Don Saunders, Logistical Committee Co-Chair for Relay
For Life and Deputy Commanding Officer of 21 Aerospace
Control & Warning Squadron, officially invited the community
to 22 Wing for the 11th Anniversary of Relay for Life in North
Bay during the Canadian Cancer Society‘s media launch held
on Wednesday, March 9th at noon just outside Scotiabank.
This year‘ s Relay For Life will take place Friday, June 3rd to
Saturday, June 4th at the 22 Wing Athletic Field. The theme
is “A Field of Dreams a World Without Cancer”.
MGen Blondin was referring to their names
being submitted to the annual North American
Aerospace Defense Command awards
which take place in Colorado Springs where
recipients are selected from Canada and the
US candidates vying for the decoration.
Also honoured at the Canadian NORAD
ceremony was MWO Kelly Russell of 22 Wing
who is flight chief of 21 Aerospace Control
and Warning Squadron. MWO Russell is
being acclaimed as an outstanding Aerospace
Three CF members in total were recognized; Control Operator while stationed at the USAF
a fourth recipient could not attend.
Missile Space Warning Squadron in Cape Cod,
A framed certificate was presented by the Maine, USA. For her exceptional dedication
Commander to each recipient. Among them and service, she has also previously been
was Lieutenant Kathleen Casey from 22 Wing appointed a member of the Order of Military
North Bay who joined the CF in 2008 and is Merit by the Governor General of Canada.
currently the weapons director at 21 Aerospace The final recipient, MCpl Stacey Kell was
Control and Warning Squadron. She has also to receive the Canadian NORAD
participated extensively in domestic operations region award, but could not attend due to
including Op Podium and Op Cadence and has his tasking in Afghanistan.
Lieutenant Kathleen Casey
from 22 Wing North Bay
who joined the CF in 2008
and is currently the weapons
director at 21 Aerospace
Control and Warning
Squadron has participated
extensively in domestic
operations including Op
Podium and Op Cadence
and has made meaningful
contributions to the NORAD
mission since her arrival.
Also on hand, Peter Chirico, Honorary Cancer Survivor and Deputy Mayor for the City of
North Bay, gave an emotional address as he choked back tears exclaiming how happy
he was to be asked to be the Honorary Cancer Survivor and to be able to participate in
the Field of Dreams.
Corporal Gregory Janes,
member of the 21 Aerospace
Control and Warning
Squadron, receives his
Canadian NORAD Region
Award from Major General
Yvan Blondin.
MWO Kelly Russell of 22 Wing,
flight chief of 21 Aerospace
Control and Warning
Squadron was acclaimed as
an outstanding Aerospace
Control Operator while
stationed at the USAF Missile
Space Warning Squadron
in Cape Cod, Maine, USA.
She has also previously been
appointed a member of the
Order of Military Merit by the
Governor General of Canada.
22 Wing Messes
2 rooms ARE available for rental
to host your special occasions.
The Blue Room is licensed for 275 people
and Club 100 is licensed for 215. Catering
is available through Wing Foods or, if you
prefer, bring in your own caterer.
Fees for the room rentals are:
Without bar services $107.00 (GST included)
With bar services $294.25 (GST included)
For booking call:
22 Wing Mess manager at local 2250
4
Military Family Resource Centre /
Centre de Ressources pour les Familles des Militaires
Please note, all MFRC programs are offered to CF/USAF members,
reservists and their families and 22 Wing civilian employees
Pour des renseignements en français au sujet de nos
programmes, composez le 494-2011 poste 2053
Celebrating 20 Years of Service to Military Families 1990-2010
Prevention, Support
and Intervention
Prevention, Support and Intervention is a
service designed to enhance the social and
emotional well-being of CF families. We are able
to assist our families by providing the following:
• Education and Prevention
• Short-Term Intervention and Crisis Support
• Assessment and Referral
We Care About
You Program
If you know of someone who is going through
a difficult time, with their permission please
refer them to the WE CARE ABOUT YOU
PROGRAM at the MFRC for a one time gift
to help lift their spirits or to help ease their
situation. To do this, please call Linda Pyke,
We Care About You Program Coordinator at
494-2011 local 2026.
If you’re in a situation where you’re
feeling as though you do not know which
direction to take, contact your Prevention,
Support and Intervention Coordinator. It’s
confidential and it’s free!
Note: This program exists through
donations from our 22 Wing Community
as well as fundraising activities. Charitable
receipts are available.
Some areas of difficulty may be the following:
To provide moral support to our military
community and their families during
difficult times.
• Stress
• Anxiety
• Marital difficulties • Financial difficulties
• Difficulties with children
• Conflict at work • Addiction
• Feelings of depression
• Fatigue • Low self-esteem
• Feelings of loss
• Loneliness, isolated
For information and/or assistance with any
of the above areas, please contact:
Linda Pyke local 2026
Fax: 705-494-2106
Email: [email protected]
VISION STATEMENT
MISSION STATEMENT
To provide moral comfort and support through
a one time gift that is relevant to the person’s
situation, along with pertinent information
regarding services from programs within our
centre or other relevant services in the city.
Babysitting Course
Saturday, May 7th
9:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Coffee Connections
Multi Purpose Room, Community Centre
All Military Members and Spouses
are invited to come out and join
us once a week for a two hour
Cost $45.00
“Time for Me”
April 4th, 11th, 18th
Base Chapel Annex
Free child care provided
For more info or to register
Call Natalie local 2053
or Pam local 2066
We are pleased to offer the Babysitting
Course once again this year in conjunction
with St John’s Ambulance.
This course is open to
youth ages 10 years and up.
Interested participants please register in
person at the Little Wings Child Care Centre
prior to Friday, April 29th. Full payment will
be required at time of registering, maximum
registration is 10 participants.
Participants will need two snacks, a lunch and
doll or teddy bear as they will not be allowed
to leave the premises during the day.
For more information, please contact Diane
Sarrazin-Dubeau at local 2060/2668 or at
[email protected]
Board of Directors
Thursday April 21, 2011
Cecil’s Eatery & Beer Society
300 Wyld St. 10 am -2 pm
To register call Natalie at
705-494-2011 local 2053
or Pam at local 2066
North Bay Military Family
Resource Centre
Chair: Chris Charland
Vice-Chair/ Treasurer: Vacant
Secretary: Kristin Wood
NEW!!!
For more information on MFRC
Programs and Services, check
us out on the web @
www.familyforce.ca
Community-at-Large: Erin Roberts,
Genevieve Caron, Pte Karen Neate, MWO
Moira McKenzie
Past Chair: Sherry Ann St. Denis
Ex-Officio: Major Leo Phillips - Wing Rep,
Carolyn Lee-Guy: MFRC Executive Director,
Diane Sarrazin-Dubeau - LWCC Supervisor
MFRC Contact list /Personnes Contact au CRFM
Carolyn Lee-Guy, Executive Director/Directrice Générale, ext/poste 2057
Louise MacDonell, Business Administrator/Gestionnaire des affaires, Employment,
Education & Second Language Coordinator/Coordonnatrice des services d’aide en
emploi, éducation et langue seconde ext/poste 2073
Suzette Boothby, Quality of Life and Family Separation and Reunion/Coordonnatrice
en qualité de vie et soutien à la séparation et à la réunion des familles ext/poste 2056
Linda Pyke, Prevention, Support/Prévention et soutien, Emergency Child Care
Coordinator/Coordinatrice des services urgents de garde, ext/poste 2026
Donat Roussy, Information Management/Gestion de l’information, Youth and Teen
Coordinator/Coordinateur pour programmes jeunesse et adolescence, ext/poste 2645
Diane Sarrazin-Dubeau, Child Care and Parenting Support Coordinator/
Coordonnatrice de services de garde et soutien au rôle parental Garderie/Little Wings
Child Care Centre, ext/poste 2060/2668
Pamela Lennips, Volunteer Services and Community Integration Coordinator/Coordonnatrice
du programme pour bénévoles et intégration communautaire, ext/poste 2066
Natalie Wiseman, Administrative and Program Assistant/Adjointe administrative et
assistance au programme, ext/poste 2916
Emergency Child Care
for CF and USAF Families
Spring is in the air and we are excited to share
our enthusiasm with our little ones. In the
month of March, we hosted our March Break
Mini Camp and annual outing to Matthew’s
Maple Sugar Shack - fun was had by all!
Soon our children will be learning about the
signs of spring and with summer just around
the corner, the Centre will be offering our
popular Mini Camp program for children ages
4-12. For more information, please call Diane
or Leanna at 705-494-2011 local 2060.
Parent Support
[email protected]
Parenting is not always easy and it even
becomes more challenging during posting
season. I realize that you already have a
great deal on your plate from the time your
message arrives. Let me help. We have
resources that will help save you from growing
a few grey hairs! To find out more call me.
Child Care Registry
Are you a child care provider looking for full
time or part time, day or evening work? We
are looking for you! If you would like to add
your name and contact information in our
child care registry binder, please call Diane
at 705-494-2011 local 2060/2668.
Parent Tot
Wednesday, April 6th
Wednesday, April 20th
Wednesday, May 4th
Wednesday, May 18th
Wednesday, June 1st
Wednesday, June 15th
Moms, dads and grandparents, are you
looking for a fun and cheap way to entertain
your children for a few hours?
Look no further. Join us at the Community
Centre from 10:00 to 11:15 a.m. for a
morning of crafts, songs, and stories.
Cost is $2 per child. For more information,
please call Diane at local 2060/2668.
Emergency child care is available to CF and
USAF families at all times, day or night. If
perhaps an emergency situation arises and
you do not have child care, please follow
the instructions below regarding how to
obtain this service. CF and USAF families
are entitled to 72 hours of emergency child
care per incident. We have screened child
care providers on call and the MFRC covers
the cost at our predetermined rates.
Respite
Child Care
Respite child care is a service offered to
CF families when a spouse is away for
30 days or more. If you feel as though
you would like some time to yourself,
please contact us to arrange for one of
our screened Emergency/Respite Child
Care Providers to care for your children. If
you are uncomfortable with bringing your
children to someone they don’t know, we
can arrange for you to meet the Provider
ahead of time. MFRC’s are authorized to
fund up to 72 hours of respite child care.
Emergency and Respite Child Care
Providers are screened and have a
completed police record check.
AFTER HOURS:
CONTACT INFORMATION
RECENTLY CHANGED
For further information regarding
Emergency or Respite Childcare or to
request assistance, please contact Linda at
494-2011 local 2026/2053 or Diane at local
2668/2060 during MFRC/LWCC hours,
Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
After hours, please contact the MCC
DESK at 494-2011 local 6400 for a list of
providers. If this service is used through
the MCC Desk after hours, please ensure
that the MFRC Emergency/Respite Child
Care Coordinator is aware the next
available business day.
april / avril
Employment & Education Services
Louise MacDonell
Employment/Education Assistance Coordinator
The following resources are available at
the MFRC to assist you in your job search:
* Assistance with résumé and cover letter writing
* Job postings bulletin board
* Information on free local job readiness
training: workshops, practice firms, etc.
* Local Labour Market Information and trends
* Employment Resource Library
* Referrals to employment resource
agencies in the North Bay community
* Information on starting and funding your
own business
* Computers, Internet, photocopier and fax
machine at your disposal
* Registration for Second Language Training
The following resources are also available at
the MFRC to assist you in your career planning:
* College and university course calendars for
local, distance and online education opportunities
* Information on funding your education
* Information on First Aid/CPR, WHMIS,
Smart Serve courses available to you
* Access to National Occupational Classification
information to assist in career choices
For more information or to arrange an
appointment, please contact Louise
MacDonell at 494-2011 ext 2073 or email,
[email protected]
Free Workshops
Brush up on your skills…get ready for
the job market! One day workshops are
available in the community on topics such
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The Shield / le Bouclier
as “Networking Essentials”, “Self S-Team”,
“Interview/Mock Interview Skills”, “Primary
Fundamentals”, “Basic Computers”,
“Intermediate Computers”, “40+ Workshop”,
“Portfolio workshop”, “Work/Life Balance”,
as well as “Go Getters Job Club” meetings.
For more information, call Louise MacDonell
at 705-494-2011 ext. 2073 or email, Louise.
[email protected]
CPR/First Aid/AED Courses
Space permitting, courses are available
through 22 Wing for dependents 18 years of
age and older – however, military members
are the priority. A schedule is posted at the
MFRC next to the Job Bank Bulletin board.
Courses include 2 full days of training (AED
– defibrillator course is a half day); there is no
charge for the courses. If you are interested
please call 705-494-2011 ext. 2073; email:
[email protected]
Summer Employment
Opportunities
The Government of Ontario’s summer jobs
programs and services are open to students
aged 15 to 30 years who are planning to return
to school this fall. Visit Employment Ontario’s
Summer Jobs website at www.ontario.ca/
summerjobs to find job listings; get assistance
on promoting one’s skills, as well as résumé
writing skills; or, learn how to start up your
own summer company. More information is
available by contacting a Ministry of Northern
Development and Mines Summer Jobs
Service advisor in your community.
Other student opportunities are available
at Ontario Power Generation: www.
mypowercareer.com; working holidays:
www.swap.ca; City of North Bay: www.city.
north-bay.on.ca/cityhall/employment.
YOUTH CORNER CALENDAR April 2011
FUN FACTORY CALENDAR April 2011
Tue 5, Origami, 6-8 p.m.
Tue 12, Easter Craft, 6-8 p.m.
Sat 16, Annual Easter Egg Hunt, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
Tue 19, Earth Day Tribute, 6-8 p.m.
Fri 22, Earth Day
Sun 24, Happy Easter
Tue 26, Gym Night @FS&R, 6-8 p.m.
Sat 2, Dinosaurs, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Sat 9, Easter Craft, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Sat 16, Annual Easter Egg Hunt, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
Fri 22, Earth Day
Sat 23, CLOSED
Sun 24, Happy Easter
Sat 30, Earth Day Tribute, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Mission Information
Line:
Where peace of mind is just a phone call away!
1-800-866-4546
This bilingual telephone service is for families
of Canadian military personnel serving in
operations outside Canada.
The toll free number, is a 24 hour service
featuring detailed reports about Canadian
Forces missions and operations from around
the world.
The Line provides the kind of assurance and
support family members depend on.
Personnel are available to handle calls in
confidence Monday to Friday (except on
statutory holidays), from 0800 hours to
midnight Eastern Time.
The Line should not be considered a
substitute for MFRCs, but rather a
complement to their services
Member Assistance
Program:
1-800-268-7708
Petawawa Deployment
Support Centre
1-877-218-9993
If you know someone stationed at CFB
Petawawa but currently deployed overseas,
do not hesitate to contact the PDSC for
assistance and support .
Personnel are available to handle calls in
confidence 24/7.
When you make the call, you will need the
serving member’s rank, first & last name,
service number and name of deployment
operations .
Care Packages
The MFRC offers a parcel wrapping station
equipped with: paper, tape, boxes, Canada
Post mailing forms and a list of suggestions
for items to include in a care package.
When mailing a care package through the
MFRC, please have handy the following
information: rank, full first and last name,
name & address of the operation and a list
of contents in the care package.
Military Family Support
Groups across our region!
It’s midnight and you feel the need to
talk to someone. You cannot wait until
the morning. This program allows you to
speak to someone immediately in total
confidentiality.
Do you have family or friends living outside
of North Bay and experiencing or about to
experience a deployment?
This service is free and available day
and night, 365 days a year, anywhere in
Canada.
Please inform them of the Military Family
Support Groups available in the following
locations:
This is not an emergency service but it will
allow you to speak immediately to someone
who knows how to listen and how to refer you
to the services you require.
Sault Ste Marie:
May Adshead at (705) 541-5200 ext 5245
Busy Bees are the Best!!!
“Volunteers don’t get paid, not because
they’re worthless, but because they’re
priceless” -Sherry Anderson
Spring is in the air and it is time for new
beginnings. Come and volunteer at the
MFRC you will never regret it. It is a time of
meeting new people, reaping the rewards of
a job well done and gaining experience that
may help you achieve your career goals. If
you are interested come and chat with me,
my name is Pamela Lennips, Volunteer
Coordinator at the MFRC.
A big thank you goes out to all the MFRC
Busy Bees who have helped out over
the last three months. I have never been
so impressed with the group we have
volunteering for us. They are always quick
to say yes to any job that needs to be done.
Upcoming Volunteer Opportunities
Saturday April 16, 2011
~ 22 Wing Annual Easter Egg Hunt
Saturday July 9, 2011
~ MFRC Annual “We Care” Car Wash
If interested in helping out with these events
call Pam Lennips ext. 2066, or email her at
[email protected]
Sudbury:
Carrie Farmer at (705) 869-8843
Timmins: Our volunteer facilitator is: Judy
Misener, who resides in Iroquois Falls and is
most willing to meet with families who have
a loved one deployed at this time.
For more information on this support
group or the Family Separation and
Reunion Program please call Suzette
Boothby at 705-494-2011 ext 2056 or
[email protected]
www.cfcommunitygateway.com www.portailcommunautaireFC.ca
Personnel Support
Programs Serving
Those Who Serve
Fitness, Sports, Recreation, Aquatics and Health Promotion
programmes de soutien
du personnel Servant
ceux qui servent
The Fit File
salesperson recommends for you. (Make sure
you’re dressed to run when you’re shopping!)
Simply trying on the shoes and walking a few
steps inside the store is not enough. Run in
each pair of shoes to test for fit, function, and
comfort before making your final decision.
6. Test your running shoes by running in them
for a week. If you quickly develop blisters or
foot pain, they may not be the right shoes
for you. Many specialty running stores have
liberal exchange policies and allow you to
return running shoes even if you’ve been
running in them for a week or more. Take
Weather you consider yourself a runner, a them back and exchange them for another
walker or a non exerciser, we all get from recommended pair of running shoes.
point A to point B by foot. So if you consider 7. After you’ve found your perfect running
the fact that walking accounts for the majority shoes, you don’t have to keep going back
of your daily physical activity, regardless of to the specialty running shop. You’ll need to
your fitness habits, the questions of when replace your shoes every 300-400 miles. If
to get new shoes and what shoes to get are you want to save some money, you may be
important. And with spring in the air, the urge able to find your running shoes online for less
to put a little extra spring into your step, I’m money. Search sites such as runbargains.
sure, has brought you to thinking whether or com or Overstock.com for your make and
not its time for a new pair of sneakers!
model. And pray that the shoe manufacturer
1. Go straight to the experts at a running doesn’t discontinue your running shoe!
specialty store. Plan on spending some Tips:
time there because the salesperson should
1. If you’re already a runner, bring your
ask you lots of questions and have several
current running shoes with you to the store.
running shoe options for you to try out.
The salesperson can look at the wear on the
2. Make sure the salesperson looks at the bottom of your running shoes to get some
shape and arch to figure out what type of foot more insight into your running style.
you have. Determining your foot type is key to
2. Make sure the salesperson measures your
making sure you get the right running shoes.
foot while you’re standing up.
The salesperson should also measure your
foot. Your running shoes should be 1/2 to a full 3. If you use orthotics or custom-fit insoles,
size bigger than your regular shoe size because bring them with you to try on your running
your feet will swell when you run and you need shoes. You need running shoes that are
plenty of room in the toebox. If your toes are roomy enough to accommodate your insoles.
crammed in the front of the running shoe, you 4. Don’t pick running shoes based on the colors
could develop bruised or black toenails.
or style. Just because they look cute doesn’t
3. Have the salesperson do a running analysis
for you. The salesperson will watch you run in
the running shoes, either outside or on treadmill,
and determine your running style. Salesperson
will observe whether you’re overpronating (your
foot rolls inward) or supinating (your foot rolls
outward) when your foot strikes the ground.
mean they’ll be the best running shoe for you!
Once you have the right running shoes, just
get out and enjoy the spring air. Oh by the
way, watch out for the puddles or pot holes.
Health Promotion
Coming Soon…
Injury Reduction Strategies
for Sports and Physical
Activities Program.
Playing smarter
means fewer
injuries!
Health Promotion and Fitness will be
facilitating a new Injury Prevention Program
with the goals of decreasing the burden of
physical injuries felt in the CF, increasing
overall physical activity levels and improving
operational readiness.
Over 50% of all physical injuries in the CF
occur during sports and physical training. 95%
of these injuries are preventable.
down techniques.
These programs will
provide information on
evidence-based practices
in injury prevention such as
modified fitness training,
running strategies,
protective equipment and
proper warm-up / cool-
The new injury prevention programs will:
1. Broaden the understanding and awareness
of the burden caused by injuries in the CF;
2. Present injury reduction strategies to CF
leadership, partners and personnel;
3. Support injury prevention in a cohesive and
collaborative way.
Dates to be announced!!!
4. Give the salesperson information that
will help him/her with his/her running shoe
recommendations. Salesperson should be
asking you questions about what type of running
you do, how often you run, where you typically
run, and what type of surfaces you run on.
For more information:
Contact Sandra Harkness
local 2350
or
Lucas DeMarco
local 2457
5. Run in the running shoes that the
Canadian Blood
Donor Clinics
Tues. April 12th, 2011
11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. & 4:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Wed. April 13th, 2011
11:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. & 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Elks Lodge, 325 Elks Lane, in
the Main Hall. Please book an appointment today by calling
1 888 2 DONATE (1 888 236-6283)
10 Years of dedicated service
On Tuesday, March 1st, 2011, members of the 22 Wing PSP Team gathered to congratulate
Mr. Derek Callahan on his 10th Anniversary as 22 Wing’s Community, Recreation & Facilities
Coordinator. Since February 26th, 2001, Derek and his team of recreation professionals, have
provided our military community with a wide range of community recreation programs; while
all the while ensuring that our facilities are well maintained. Presenting Derek with his 10th
Anniversary award is Ms. Leanne Witt, PSP Manager.
SHIELD SUBMISSION DEADLINE
The deadline for
submissions for the
March issue of
The Shield will be
Mon, Apr 18
th
18
ril
Ap
www.cfcommunitygateway.com www.portailcommunautaireFC.ca
Personnel Support
Programs Serving
Those Who Serve
Fitness, Sports, Recreation, Aquatics and Health Promotion
programmes de soutien
du personnel Servant
ceux qui servent
Sports News
by Pierre Simard
too was rather gripping and impassioned, the
players were quite well matched, playing 5
games. In the end, Capt Pratt won 3 games
CF Ontario Region
to 2, and captured the Master’s event. Sunday
Badminton and
Squash Tournament afternoon, the Open final took place between
MCpl Sebastien Binczak (North Bay) and
During the weekend Capt Brody Peddle (Kingston). MCpl Binczak
of March 4 th -7 th , the was triumphant, winning 3 of 5 games to wrap
C F O n t a r i o R e g i o n up the Tournament. The CF Ontario Region
Badminton and Squash Squash team that will compete at CF Nationals
Championships were in May, 2011 will be as follows;
held at the Fitness and
Wellness Center. On Open 1 - Sebastien Binczak
Friday afternoon, eager
and excited team members and participants
rolled in from all over Ontario to partake in
the competition that would determine the
players who would go on to the National
events in May, 2011.
The team captain meeting and team photos
took place on Friday evening before everyone
moved over to the mess for the Meet & Greet,
where a delicious lasagna dinner was served.
On Saturday morning, all participants were raring
to go when tournament play began. Excitement
hung in the air and games were played with drive
and enthusiasm throughout the day.
On Sunday morning, the finals began. On the
squash courts we saw LCol Marc LaFortune
(Kingston) defeat Capt Tim McClure of North
Bay for the Senior Champion spot. Later on
we saw 2Lt Parker Horton from Kingston
face off against Capt Jean-Francois Moreau
(also from Kingston) for the Under 30 Final.
It was a thrilling and heated game and in the
end, Capt Moreau took the title as Under
30 Champion. On the other court, we also
saw the Women’s final take place, with Capt
Mojisola Lemire (Borden) against North
Bay’s Pte Jodi Bradley. Capt Lemire took
it away winning 3 of 5 games, and landing
herself the title of Women’s Champion. Later
in the morning, the Masters final took place,
with Capt Khaled El Seweify from North Bay
playing Capt Miles Pratt of Borden. This game
Open 2 - Capt Brody Peddle
Open 3 - Cpl Sebastien Grenier
Open 4 - WO Serge Decoeur
Under 30 - Capt Jean-Francois Moreau
Senior – LCol Marc Lafortune
Master – Capt Miles Pratt
Women – Capt Mojisola Lemire
On the badminton courts, on Saturday and
Sunday, players from all five participating
bases, competed in singles play to determine
the Ontario Region Badminton Team that will
compete at the CF Nationals in May. The
players who were successful are:
Open 1 - Pte Sebastien Gagnon (Kingston)
Open 2 - Cpl Kenny Trenholm (Kingston)
Open 3 - Maj Thinh Nguyen (Borden)
Open 4 - Lt Raymon Lee (Borden)
Senior – Sgt Nelson Lepage (Borden)
Master – WO John Browning (Trenton)
Women 1 – MS Donna Sim (Petawawa)
Women 2 - Capt Mylene Caron (Petawawa)
All in all, the tournament was a great success.
Thank you to our Badminton Chief Official, Mr.
Paul Best and his assistant Brenda Sharp;
and Capt Khaled El Seweify for his technical
expertise on the Squash side.
Intersection Sports
Base Team Sports
Intersection Softball League Meeting
22 Wing Ball Hockey Team
In preparation for the Ontario Region Ball
There will be a meeting for all team reps Hockey Championships, to be held at CFB
on Thur, May 5th, 2011 at 2:30 p.m. in the Petawawa in June 2011, all interested 22 Wing
Wing Theatre. The following topics will be military ball hockey players are asked to submit
their names to Sgt Kevin Thompson local 6491
discussed.
(Coach) or call the Sports Coordinator Pierre
a. League schedule;
Simard at local 2240.
b. Rules; and
c. Open discussion.
We are looking at different formats for this
season. If you have any suggestions, e-mail
or call the Sports Coordinator Pierre Simard
at local 2240.
22 Wing Men’s & Women
Slo Pitch Teams
Thu April 14 , 2011
th
We would like to invite all 22 Wing personnel
who participated in any 2010/11 sports and/or
fitness activities to the 22 Wing Sports & Fitness
Banquet to be held at the ROCC Lounge, Thurs
Apr 14th, 2011. This invitation is for anyone who
participated in the 22 Wing Intersection/Base
Team Sports and CISM programs. As well,
awards for the Annual EXPRES Competition
Program will be presented.
The W Cmd or his representative will be present
and food will be served to all in attendance.
Timings are as follows:
Intersection Golf – League Meeting
1:00 p.m. Sports & Fitness video presentation
1:30 p.m. Meal begins
2:00 p.m. FSR Director’s opening remarks,
followed by W Cmd presentations.
There will be a meeting for all team reps
on Thur, May 12th, 2011 at 1:30 p.m. in the
Fitness & Wellness Centre. The following
topics will be discussed.
a. Level of interest;
b. Best times, cost and rules;
c. Open discussion.
22 Wing Sports &
Fitness Banquet
For more information, contact the Sports
Coordinator, Pierre Simard, local 2240.
In preparation for the Ontario Region M/F
Slo-Pitch Championships, to be held at
CFB Borden, all interested 22 Wing military
men & women softball players are asked to
submit their names to the following Coaches/
Managers; or call the Sports Coordinator
Pierre Simard at local 2240.
Women: Cpl Tonya Latta local 2694
Men: Cpl Sebastien Grenier local 2575
What’s new in Aquatics?
The Red Cross Preschool program is
available to children ages four months to six
years. This is now an eight level program.
The new level is called Sea Otter. Sea
Otter is a transitional level that transfers the
preschooler from the care of the parent to
the swim instructor. Swimmers can enter this
level at the age of three years old.
The Red Cross Swim Kids program is still a ten
level program but it’s now available to children
ages five to 12 years. In each level, the participant
In preparation for the Ontario Region Soccer is evaluated on their skills which include strokes
Championships, to be held at CFB Petawawa, and safety in and around the water. Once these
all interested 22 Wing military soccer players skills have been successfully completed, the
are asked to submit their names to Cpl swimmer will progress to the next level.
Fitzpatrick (Coach) at local 6187, or call the
Sports Coordinator Pierre Simard at local 2240. These new changes will be taking place
during our spring session. Spring registration
started Monday March 28th at the reception
desk of the Fitness and Wellness Centre.
Lessons will be starting the week of April 4th.
22 Wing Men’s
Soccer Team
Come swimming with your family during one
of our public swims! Public swims are offered
Monday’s, Wednesday’s and Friday’s from 6:308:00 p.m. as well as Saturday’s and Sundays
from 3:00-4:30 p.m. and 6:00-7:30 p.m.
If you have any questions related to our
Aquatics Programs, call Samantha Stauffer
at local 2611 or Pierre Simard at local 2240.
22 Wing Golf Passes
The 22 Wing - Fitness & Wellness Centre has
obtained a partnership with Osprey Links, Clear
Springs, Pinewood & Laurentide Golf Courses.
Tickets are available at the 22 Wing - Fitness &
Wellness Centre reception desk during regular
operating hours. Golf passes are available to
Military Members and 22 Wing North Bay Civilian
(Full Time) Employees and their dependants
who hold a RAM membership. Maximum one (1)
golf pass per person each visit. Re-sale of these
golf passes is prohibited. There is no refund of
golf pass after purchase.The following explains
the savings you can receive, prices are subject
to change without notice.
Osprey Links Golf Course (752-5225)
The cost of each golf pass at the Fitness and
Wellness Centre for Osprey Links is $27.00,
which is a minimum saving of $11.50 off the
regular price on weekdays, $14.50 on weekends.
You must show your ID at the Pro Shop.
Regular Fitness &
Wellness Centre
Weekdays $36.50+tax
$27.00 tax/inc
Weekends $39.50+tax $27.00 tax/inc
/Holidays
Clear Springs Golf Course (724-5735)
The cost of each golf pass at the Fitness and
Wellness Centre for Clear Springs is $27.00,
a minimum saving of $5.95 on weekdays and
$12.50 on weekends. You must show your ID
at the Pro Shop.
Regular
Fitness & Wellness Centre
Weekdays $30.95+tax
$27.00 tax/inc
Weekends $35.71+tax $27.00 tax/inc
Pinewood Golf Course (472-2264)
The cost of each golf pass at the Fitness and
Wellness Centre for Pinewood is $20.00,
a minimum saving of $3.00 on weekdays
and weekends. Also Military and Civilian
Employees of 22 Wing North Bay can receive a
discount by showing their ID card if they decide
to purchase their ticket at the Golf Course.
Regular With ID
Fit&Well
Centre
Weekdays $27.00
$23.00
$20.00
Weekends $28.00
$23.00
$20.00
Laurentide Golf Course (753-0983)
The cost of each golf pass at the Fitness and
Wellness Centre for Laurentide is $27.00 (tax
included) a minimum saving of $10.00 on
weekdays and $15.00 on weekends.
april / avril
Honours and Awards
The Shield / le Bouclier
8
Put on Your Marching Boots and Get Ready
to Celebrate Armed Forces Day!
Article and photo by: Lieutenant Leah
Pierce, PAO
Members of the media were invited to the
Blue Room at 22 Wing/Canadian Forces Base
(CFB) North Bay on Thursday, February 24th,
th
2011
as plans to celebrate Armed Forces Day
On Mar 4 , 2011 LCol Dave Dixon, CO
of 21 AC&W Sqn(left), and CWO Daniel in North Bay were unveiled.
Pilon(right), promoted Private Justin Colonel (Col) François Malo, 22 Wing
Jeanneault to Corporal.
Commander, launched the media event by
announcing that 2011 is a special year for
the Canadian Forces (CF) and the city of
North Bay. “On September 1st, 2011, North
Bay will celebrate 60 years of a military
presence in this city. This is CFB North Bay’s
Diamond Anniversary.”
On Mar 4th, 2011 Maj Mark Roberts and WO Ray
Poirier presented Private Guillaume Therrien with
the 51 Squadron Academic Excellence Award for
Identification Technician course 11-01.
Celebrations to commemorate the six-decade
milestone will take place throughout the year;
however, June 1st, 2011 will be a day in
which military members and city officials will
exercise the “Freedom of the City”.
Al McDonald, Mayor of the City of North Bay, congratulates Colonel François Malo, 22 Wing
Commander, and the men and women of 22 Wing as they prepare to celebrate the 60th Anniversary
of the wing. Details of Armed Forces Day were released during a media event held Thursday,
February 24th, 2011 at the Blue Room, 22 Wing/CFB North Bay.
Newly elected Mayor and former “base brat” Al
McDonald extended his congratulations to Col
Malo and the men and women of 22 Wing on
our 60 years in North Bay. “We take pride in
reflecting on the exceptional relationship our
community has maintained with CFB North
Bay over the past decades. We consider CFB
an integral part of our community.”
In January, the Mayor approached Col Malo
to discuss how the city could honour the
On Mar 8th, 2011 LCol Dave Dixion, CO of men and women in the military. Although
21 AC&W Sqn, promoted Private (Basic) the members of the military had participated
in a “Freedom of the City” ceremony in the
Charles-André Arbour to Private Trained.
past, both gentlemen thought that this year,
especially, would be a fitting opportunity to
exercise that “Freedom” once again.
Colonel François Malo, 22 Wing Commander, answers reporters questions during the media
st
As explained by Mayor McDonald, the “Freedom event to launch “Armed Forces Day”, which will be held Wednesday, June 1 , 2011 as part of
the
Diamond
Anniversary
celebrations
taking
place
throughout
the
year.
of the City” ceremony is an example of a military
tradition initiated in England during the 15th
Nipissing to make way for the CF Snowbirds.
Century. During the War of the Roses, cities Commonwealth of Nations.
were constantly endangered by marauding Following a march to City Hall from Memorial Warriors of the Air, the Snowbirds mark
On Mar 4th, 2011 LCol Dave Dixon(left), and military units from one side or the other. Before Gardens and a solemn ceremony at City Hall their 40th year of demonstrating the skill,
CWO Daniel Pilon(right), presented Captain a city would admit a military unit inside its walls, the parade – including members from 22 Wing, professionalism and teamwork of the CF to
Ghyslain Martel with his Air Force Officer the Chief Constable demanded to know the the Algonquin Regiment, 33 Service Battalion, aviation enthusiasts throughout North America.
purpose of the soldier’s entry, and escorted Canadian Forces Recruiting Centre, and Weather permitting, they will be putting on a
Diploma Block 2 Certificate.
their commander to the Council Chambers. If cadets – will continue to march down to the 30-minute aerial display sure to amaze and
the leaders felt the unit could be trusted, the unit waterfront where members of the military will entertain. Along with the Snowbirds, the public
was granted privilege known as “Freedom of enjoy intermingling with what is expected to will be welcome to meet and mingle with a wide
the City,” which entitled it to enter the city with be thousands of community members, young variety of CF personnel, experience first-hand
drums beating, banners flying and bayonets and old, from North Bay and surrounding area. what it feels like to sit in army vehicles and
fixed. Today, granting “Freedom of the City” is
enjoy lunch while listening to the extremely
a traditional means for a municipality to honour At the waterfront, approximately noon, the talented 22 Wing Concert Band.
a CF unit; it is considered a private matter F-86 Sabre, a jet fighter from Vintage Wings
between civic officials and the unit concerned. with its history in North Bay, will begin what will So don’t book any leave and find your most
st
On March 21 , 2011 LCol Dave Dixon(left) The decision to grant the freedom rests with no doubt be the start of an exciting afternoon. comfortable marching boots, as 22 Wing
a record
and CWO Dan Pilon(right) presented Adam the municipal authorities. It remains the oldest After a dazzling aeronautic display, the Sabre celebrates Armed Forces Day with
st
.
crowd
on
Wednesday,
June
1
will
clear
the
airspace
above
the
waters
of
Lake
Kittson with a promotion to Private Trained. and one of the highest civic honours in the
The Honourary Colonel Program
By: Honorary Colonel Paul Cook, 51 Sqn
On March 30, 2010 I became the Honourary
Colonel for 51 Squadron Aerospace Control
and Warning Operational Training Squadron
at 22 Wing in North Bay. I was honoured to
take on this role as I am a proud “air force
brat”, with my father retiring as a Warrant
Officer after approximately 36 years of service
to our country (1952-1987). I have many fond
memories of growing up with my older brother
John and younger sister Peggy on bases in
Germany; Cold Lake, Alberta and North Bay.
I attribute any success I have experienced in
both my personal life and my policing career
in large part to my military upbringing and
the strong family values instilled in me by my
parents Margaret and Doug.
According to the Canadian Air Force website,
www.forces.gc.ca, the Canadian tradition
of appointing Honourary Colonels to units
originated with the British military and the
first appointment was made in Canada in
1895. The air force began the practice of
nominating Honourary Colonels some 75
years later. More than 225 distinguished
Canadians have served the air force through
this program since 1970, including Senator
Pamela Wallin and internationally acclaimed
singer/composer Loreena McKennitt. Many
others are well known media celebrities,
high-profile and professional athletes and
corporate executives.
The role of the Honourary Colonel is to foster
esprit de corps within the military family and to
provide a connection between the community
and the Canadian Forces (CF) by developing,
promoting and sustaining strong community
support for the military. The appointment is made
by the Governor General and the Minister of
National Defence and is for a term of three years.
Returning to Cold Lake was an incredible
and thoroughly enjoyable experience, as my
family lived on the base at PMQ # 802 from
1964 to 1972 and I had not been back since
we left upon transfer to North Bay. During my
return to the base, I visited our old PMQ and
McKenzie School, where I walked with my
In the past year, I have attended and siblings and friends through the “little woods”
participated in various parades, ceremonies to class each day. We also took the time
and special events involving the members to meet with Colonel Dave Wheeler, Wing
of 51 Aerospace Warning and Control Commander, toured the Air Traffic Control
(Operational Training) Squadron and 22 Tower and visited with Mobile Tactical Control
Wing. I have also worked with Colonel Unit, 42 Radar Squadron.
François Malo, the Commanding Officer of Without a doubt, the highlight of the trip was
22 Wing/CFB North Bay, and his staff and my participation in a training exercise with the
Honourary Colonels John Cutsey and Scott “Cougars” 410 Tactical Fighter Operational
Clark to organize the CF Appreciation Day Training Squadron. Riding in the backseat
in North Bay last year. We also coordinated of Commanding Officer Lieutenant Colonel
22 Wing’s involvement with the Coach4food “Hammy” Hamilton’s CF-18 Hornet was the
Program, a major fundraiser in support opportunity of a lifetime. The 410 Squadron
of the North Bay Food Bank, as well as has the incredible responsibility of training
a special “Support the Troops” Nipissing every CF-18 pilot in the Canadian air force.
University Lakers versus RMC hockey My time with them has left me with a whole
game, where funds were generated for the new respect for fighter pilots and what they
Military Family Resource Centre.
do. The only down side to the training was the
In October of last year, I was fortunate enough complete role reversal for me, as we were the
to travel to 4 Wing Cold Lake with Major bad guys and as such we were shot down by
Mark Roberts, the Commanding Officer of two other CF-18s on four separate missions.
51 Squadron. Our flight to Edmonton and
drive to the base provided us with ample
opportunity to discuss our views on leadership
and reflect on the many comparisons between
the military and policing professions.
The visit to 4 Wing was even more memorable
than I could have ever imagined it would
be because of the outstanding hospitality
provided the CF personnel assigned to assist
and host us. I have always possessed a
great deal of respect for our military and that
respect only increased after observing the
obvious pride with which each of our airmen
and women carry out their day-to-day duties
in support of the CF mission.
2011 looks to be a busy year for the Honourary
Colonels in North Bay as 22 Wing is celebrating
its 60-year Diamond Anniversary with many
events planned to mark this significant
milestone in the history of the base.
We are also currently working with a
committee made up of community volunteers
and members of 22 Wing to organize this
year’s Armed Forces Day on June 1st, which
will feature aerial performances by the
Snow Birds and “Hawk One”, a refurbished
classic RCAF F-86 Sabre. A “Freedom of
the City” ceremony is also being planned
for this special day. This tradition is one of
the most prized honours that a community
can bestow upon a military unit. We are
hoping for a great turn out from the citizens
of North Bay and area to show our support
for our troops and to recognize them for
everything they do to protect our freedoms
and the freedoms of others.
My involvement in the Honourary Colonel
program has provided me with the
unbelievable opportunity to get to know
and work alongside some of the finest and
most dedicated men and women in Canada.
I feel both honoured and privileged to play a
small part in their world.