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EXERCISE ARCTIC RAM

OP CROCODILE

MAN THROUGH THE ICE

THE ARMY RESERVES OF SASKATCHEWAN, MANITOBA AND NORTHWEST ONTARIO

THE MAGAZINE OF 38 CANADIAN BRIGADE GROUP

THE BRIGADEWINTER SPRING 2016


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2016 is the year for significant transformation

within the Canadian Armed Forces. As we move

ahead with the Defense Policy Review being

conducted by the Department of National Defence,

we must remember that the Chief of Defence

Staff and Army Commander have nested within

it a mandate to grow the Reserves. There is no

denying that we need to become more efficient and

effective with our most valuable resource as wetrain for war our soldiers. Therefore, I ask all of

my soldiers to remember that in everything we do,

we are scalable, agile, responsive. For my leaders

those soldiers need to be well-led, well-trained,

and well-equipped.

Of significance this year, the Saskatchewan

Dragoons conducted a change of command

between Major Chris Hunter and Major Gillian

Dulle. Gillian is the first woman to command a unit

in the Armoured Corps, and will continue to evolve

her unit for years to come.

Finally, I want to thank CWO Boucher for his years

of dedication to the units within this Brigade. He

has built a part-time career working hard, and

leading by example. He will be passing off his

pace stick this summer as he heads to Division,and I want to thank him for being at my side this

past year, and for providing sage advice to me and

strong words to the soldiers of this Brigade. Best

of luck!

During the past 3 years I have had the good

fortune and honour to be your Brigade Sergeant

Major. In our brigade, spread out over 3

provinces with 2 time zones, we are always

dealing with the complexity of time and space.

These challenges have shaped our HQ staff into

one of the best, and I thank each and every one

of them for their hard work and dedication.

A great deal of time and effort was undertaken

on the part of the Brigade Battle School. Many

thanks to all the staffplease keep up the

effort as you feed our units with skilled soldiers.

If you havent taught at the Battle School, or

havent been part of the staff, please do so. Its

a great opportunity to develop and sharpen your

skills.

The Arctic Response Company Groupwhat can

I say? What a fantastic operational capability

we have in our Brigade! Our recent deployment

to Resolute Bay was an amazing trip. How

many Canadians can say they have set foot

into the Arctic Circle? Many lessons learned,

many skills developed, and I am certain that

your view of Canada has changed. You were on

our most northern flank and were the physical

manifestation of our nation's desire to maintain

our Arctic lands as our own. To the Territorial

Battle Group HQ your leadership, as always,

is fantastic and Joint Task Force North spoke

highly of your time in Yellowknife.

Our Brigade requires that each of you view

yourselves as recruiters. Go out there and

spread the word. I am certain that there are

numerous women and men who would love

the opportunity to serve their country and just

do not know what we do. Educate them, and

bring them into the force. Refer to page 27 for

recruiting information.

Lieutenant-General Hainse, Commander of

the Army, reminded us that the Mission of theCanadian Army is to generate combat effective

multi-purpose land forces to meet Canadas

defence objectives. He further stated that

what we bring as an organization to the people

of Canada is Readiness. We have seen the

Domestic Response Company Group respond

to that call over the last three years to fire and

floods. Performing admirably, they mobilized

rapidly and effectively, maintaining high spirits

and resolve throughout. Our ability to generate

troops speaks to readiness at all levels, from

troops to the brigade staf f. I continue to hear

from 3 Division HQ of the impressive response,

the ability to plug and play and your overallmorale.

We are the army, we are Strong, we are Proud

and we are Ready.

In August CWO Dan Sembalerus will be taking

over the position of Brigade Sergeant-Major,

a position I know he will enjoy. I have been

selected to be the next Primary Reserve Division

Sergeant Major, taking over those duties in the

fall. I look forward to serving with you again.

"Ever forward never back"Progredere Ne Regredere

Colonel Geoff Abthorpe

Brigade Sergeant-Major Al Boucher

Brigade Sergeant-Major's Message

Commanders Message

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On the Cover: Members of the Arctic ResponseCompany Group prepare to depart fromExercise ARCTIC RAM 2016 in Resolute Bay,

Nunavut, on February 19, 2016.

Back Cover:Corporal Curt Fender from 3 8 Signal

Regiment installs an antenna during Collective

Training 6 at CFB Shilo on March 19, 2016.

The Brigade training will culminate in August with

Ex BISON WARRIOR.

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This magazine was published under the

authority of Colonel Geoff Abthorpe,

Commander 38 CBG.

Publisher

Major Mike Lagace, 38 CBG PAO

Editors

2Lt Stacie Nelles

2Lt Derek Gagnon2Lt Kyle Roman

HCol Barry Burns

Photographers

MCpl Louis Brunet

Cpl Jean Archambault

MCpl Cameron Skrypnyk

Graphic Designer

Bernice May Tuano

For more information on 38 Canadian

Brigade Group or to submit articles for future

publications, please contact

[email protected] or

204-833-2500 ext. 4866.

Features

Afghanistan Bookof Remembrance

Man Through the Ice

Exercise ARCTIC RAM

Frozen DESERT

OP CROCODILE

Media links on page 23

A Bison inEastern Europe


4/28

By HLCol Dale Watts, 38 Service Battalion, CD

On Tuesday evening, May 3, The Service Battalion Senate of 17

Service Company hosted a film premiere in the Minto Armoury

Officers Mess, featuring 30-minute documentaries on the

Winnipeg Grenadiers and 38 Service Battalion. The films were

written and produced by Jon Ted Wynne of The Kings Players in

Winnipeg. The Service Battalion Senate provided beverages and

confections to the approximately 60 civilians and unit membersin attendance.

The Winnipeg Grenadiers were placed on the supplementary

order of battle in 1965. However, one of its most film-featured

notable experiences followed the arrival of the 1st Battalion

in Hong Kong in mid-November, 1941. After an historic 19-day

battle with the invading Japanese, the Grenadiers were overrun

on December 25 and incarcerated as prisoners-of-war for over 44

months.

The origins of 38 Service Battalion can be traced to 11 and

18 Service Companies, formed in Winnipeg in 1907 and 1912

respectively, as part of the Canadian Army Service Corps. These

two companies, along with 20 Service Company, Regina and the

1 Overseas Training Depot, did a tremendous job in supportingover 60,000 troops at Camp Hughes, Manitoba during WWI as

well as units overseas.

By 2Lt Derek Gagnon, 38 CBG PAO

Winnipeg, Man. When an employer has an employee come to them asking for

time off for military training, all too often there are cases where the employer

is hesitant. Often, this is because they dont fully understand what being a

Reservist in the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) is all about.

Thats where events like the Canadian Forces Liaison Councils Executrek come

in. Representatives from some of Manitobas top employers were on hand on

April 9th, as activities were hosted at McGregor Armoury and 17 Wing. A total

of nine employers were in attendance, with representatives from Great West

Life, Winnipeg Police Service and Apprenticeship Manitoba, among others.

The representatives tried out the Small Arms Trainer range, received a briefing

on signals and radios and got a first-hand look as soldiers of 38 Canadian

Brigade Group took part in Ex BISON READY.

Ultimately, the attendees left the event with a better understanding, and

hopefully a better appreciation, for the training that CAF Primary Reserve

soldiers go through.

STANDING ON GUARD FILMS PREMIERED

Captain Tom Kolesnik, 2 Canadian Air Division, served as Master

of Ceremonies for the event. Captain (retired) Vince Lopata and

HLCol Dale Watts offered related historical observations about

the Winnipeg Grenadiers and 38 Service Battalion respectively,

followed by remarks from producer Wynne before the film

viewing.

The entire set of DVDs may be ordered through

[email protected].

CFLC Event Gives Business Leaders Taste of CAF Life

ExecuTrek Takes Aim atImproved Relationships with Employers

Top photo: Captain Josh Fordham outlines enemy positions on a map during BISON READY

Bottom photo: ExecuTrek participants try out the Small Arms Trainer at McGregor Armoury

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Last fall, I found a friend sitting in his office at 38Canadian Brigade Group (38 CBG) Headquarters,listening to a very unique French dialect on theradio so he could become accustomed to it. Thelong-time Brigade officer explained that he would bedeploying into the beginnings of all mankind the

Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

In April 2016, LCol Dennis Desrochers, a passionateManitoba farmer and decorated 38 CBG Reservist,embarked on a mission rarely seen by any memberof the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) OperationCROCODILE. You know its going to be differentwhen, instead of keeping your firearm if confronted,its suggested that giving it up is easier than losingyour arm to a machete.

Proudly, The Brigade magazine provides his accountand excerpts from personal e-mails to his friendsback home.Major Mike Lagace

From Canada to the Congo: Operation CROCODILEBy LCol Dennis Desrochers, 38 CBG

Goma, DRC Daylight breaking through the

darkness accompanied by rain falling perfectly

perpendicular to the earth and mixing in with warm

temperatures all serve as a fast reminder

it is morning in the DRC.

I am in the Eastern DRC along the Rwandan border

in the city of Goma at the operational headquarters

for the United Nations' (UN) largest and most

expensive mission: la Mission de l'Organisation

des Nations Unies pour la Stabilisation enE-mails to Home

April Soon will be leaving Entebbe, Uganda. Week

been normal chaos of Africa and UN. All-in-all good.Highways reopened as the Army closed down all roadsdue to political riots. Hard to believe 40th anniversaryof Israel storming Entebbe airport to rescue hostages.

Patience and constant paying attention to what's goingon is the norm. When I go out for a beer in Entebbe -suffice to say I stick out. Trust HQ rolling along.

Figured let u know still alive in Africa.

Dennis

April Steve, Please fwd to Comd - his old syndicatemember from staff college says "greetings"Imagine - meeting in Congo.... Crazy world.

Rpublique Dmocratique du Congo (MONUSCO).

Operation CROCODILE is Canadas contribution to

this mission.

Recently, MONUSCO's mandate was extended

until March 31, 2017. We are one of the rare UN

missions operating under Chapter 7 of the UN

charter providing the legal framework for the

Force Commander to use all means necessary. Thismeans conducting offensive military operations to

fulfill the mandate which explicitly lays out several

objectives including the protection of human rights;

neutralizing armed groups; protection of natural

resources; and many other fundamental tenets

required for the Congolese to reside in security and

enjoy the most elementary of human dignities.

Among MONUSCUs authorized troop ceiling of

19,815 military personnel are nine Canadian Armed

Forces personnel: two operating out of Kinshasa,

the capital of the DRC, and the remainder in Goma.

I serve as the Senior Liaison Officer in the Eastern

DRC within a team comprised of 23 individuals

spread across seven operational sectors whose

land mass is greater than several European

countries. We interface with the Forces Arme

de la Rpublique Dmocratique du Congo (FARDC)

to aid in the fulfillment of the mission mandate.

This includes assisting in the coordination of joint

operations and facilitating logistical support,

working continuously to ensure interoperability

of MONUSCO.

Undertaking the mandate poses real and complex

challenges on multiple levels where solutions

often create second and third order effects. The

recent military successes against the Forces

Dmocratique de Libration du Rwanda (FDLR),

resulted in elements of the armed group seeking

refuge alongside Internally Displaced Persons

(IDP) camps. The FLDR melds into the camps when

government forces approach. The government

has directed the military to close some of the IDP

camps to dislodge the FDLR creating a new wave o

persons moving precariously through the jungle in

search of shelter and aid.

In the Eastern DRC there are 3,000 IDP per day on

the movemore than a million in the last year.

Consider momentarily the challenges trying to

alleviate the suffering these forced dislodgements

pose in some of the most inaccessible terrain and

jungles. Mix into the equation various murderous

armed groups, ethnic differences, disease and the

pressures caused when several thousand people

make their way into a new area, stressing already

fragile balances within a given community, and you

can appreciate that the task becomes Herculean in

effort almost instantly.

It is impossible to convey all the complexities or

the dark history imposed on the people of the DRC.

My short time here, to date, has reaffirmed what I

believe to be a universal truth in any conflict. That

being said, there are a lot of good people caught

up in something they cannot themselves explain.

Like everyone back home, they are just trying to get

by, live a little and enjoy some precious moments.

Because they cannot, is why we are here to help.

38 CBG part of Operation CROCODILEBy LCol Dennis Desrochers, 38 CBG

5WINTER SPRING2016


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Back Row: Tpr Will Halabiski, 2Lt Kyle Atwell, LCol Dave Koltun, CWO Christopher HaydenFront Row: Pte Colton Lesuk, Cpl Pardeep Khakh

T. Eaton CupIn the early hours of February 27, teams from across 38 Canadian BrigadeGroup (38 CBG) prepared to step off on patrol to begin the 2016 T. Eaton Cup.They then embarked on an eight-hour competition which would test their

teamwork and determination.

After a day of pugil stick fighting, range competition, snowmobile recovery,

and a one-kilometre toboggan race, among other skill-testing activities, the

Fort Garry Horse won the coveted cup, beating out teams from across 38 CBG.

The Saskatchewan Dragoons placed second.

The T. Eaton Trophy, donated by the department store magnate, was awarded

annually beginning in 1905 for units located in Military District 10. The military

skills contest, primarily marching and marksmanship, continued through the

decades, with the exception of the First and Second World Wars, until 1983.

The competition was revived in 2012 with teams representing units across 38

Canadian Brigade Group.

Reaching a Zenith

By Cpl Jean Archambault, Image Tech, 38 CBG

Winnipeg, Man. Being appointed Regimental Sergeant Major (RSM) is the

pinnacle of a Non Commissioned Officers career, said Master Warrant Officer

(MWO) Robert C. Jones after he was appointed the Fort Garry Horse (FGH)

RSM on April 23, 2016.

Chief Warrant Officer (CWO) Christopher Hayden yielded his position with the

traditional handover of the pace stick and the RSMs Sword while the band

played the Regimental March, El Abanico. Master Corporal (MCpl) Jeremy

Slot, the Junior Ranks Mess Vice President at McGregor Armoury, presented

his photographed version of the Fort Garry Gate to CWO Hayden, which is the

symbol on their cap badge.

The FGH has 104 years of history and MWO Jones is the 39th RSM, having

spent most of his reservist service with this unit.

The MWO has just received the position and he is already committed to

educating the members of the unit, as much as he can, with any endeavours

we take on, said MCpl Slot. I feel sad to see RSM Hayden go, but at the

same time, he hasnt gone far, and will be continuing to improve the excellence

of training with the Winnipeg Infantry Tactical Group.

Honorary Lieutenant-Colonel Bob Williams passes the Regimental Sergeant Major (RSM)sword from outgoing Chief Warrant Officer Christopher Hayden to incoming RSM, MasterWarrant Officer Robert Jones at McGregor Armoury on 23 April, 2016.

Bottom Photo: T. Eaton Cupparticipants engage in pugilstick fighting

The Incoming Regimental Sergeant Major (RSM), Master Warrant Officer Robert Jones,Commanding Officer Lieutenant Colonel Dave Koltun, Honorary Lieutenant-Colonel (HLCol)Bob Williams, HCol Brian Hastings and outgoing Chief Warrant Officer Christopher Haydensign the official Change-of-Appointment certificates at McGregor Armouryon 23 April, 2016.

6 WINTER SPRING2016


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After the closing of Canadas mission in

Afghanistan, final remembrances and ceremonies

concluded in 2014 with the Afghanistan Memorial

Vigilone that had families of the fallen getting

together for one last formal farewell. At that time

the National Committee presented to the local

organizers a beautifully crafted, leather-bound

book. Such was the case for 38 Canadian Brigade

Group (CBG) in September 2014.

Hidden in a Command Hallway at 17 Wing

Headquarters, it had very limited exposure. Indeedformer members of 38 Brigade were laden across

the pages of this book- Corporal Michael Seggie,

for example.

Now with the new Hall of Remembrance at the

Manitoba Legislature, it lays alongside every other

Book of Remembrance- including both World Wars

and the Korean War.

In a very special meeting, without any ceremonial

attributes, last January the Commander of 38

CBG, Colonel Geoff Abthorpe, on behalf of all

fallen soldiers and airmen, passed the book onto

the Province of Manitoba through Andrew Swan,

Special Envoy for Military Affairs.

More than 39,000 Canadian Armed Forces

members have served in an Afghanistan theatre

of operations or in support of the mission from

other locations around the world during the 12

years of service in Afghanistan, said MLA Swan.

I was very honoured to be presented with the

Afghanistan Book of Remembrance.

Major Mike Lagace, Senior Public Affairs Officer

of 38 CBG, was presented with the Book of

Remembrance by the National organizers of the

Afghanistan Memorial Vigil back in 2014 when it

was initially displayed at the Legislature.

When the province recently opened their Hall

of Honour, I approached the Commander about

displaying it there (permanently) for all Manitobans

to see.

The book's cover features crossed Canadian and

Afghani flags with a Canadian Armed Forces

(CAF) crest on the cover. Each page contains a

photograph, as well as a brief write-up, of each of

the 158 Canadian soldiers killed during the War in

Afghanistan (2001-2012). It will be on permanent

display in the Legislative Buildings main floor Hallof Honour, which is, as an inscription on a plaque

states, Dedicated to the brave men and women

who served this nation with dignity, courage and

sacrifice in times of war and peace.

Afghanistan Book of Remembrance Finds its Permanent Home

The Hall of Remembrance can be seen by all

visitors to the legislature. The book will be placed

in a specially-crafted display, paid for by the

Province of Manitoba.

Photo Below: Last January, Colonel Geoffrey Abthorpepresented the Afghanistan Book of Honour to AndrewSwan, Special Envoy for Military Affairs for the Province oManitoba. Chief Warrant Officer Jim Seggie, representingthe families of the fallen, accompanied the Commanderand looks upon his son's page (Corporal Michael Seggie,

2PPCLI and a former member of 38 CBG who was killed inaction in 2008). Lieutenant-Colonel Stephen Gallagher (farright), Chief of Staff of 38 CBG, and also a veteran fromAfghanistan completed the presentation team.

Dwight MacAulay, left, Manitoba's Chief of Protocol explains items on display in the Hall of Honour at the Manitoba Legislature Building to ColonelGeoffrey Abthorpe, Commander of 38 Canadian Brigade Group (38 CBG), Chief Warrant Officer Jim Seggie from Winnipeg Infantry Tactical Group andLieutenant-Colonel Stephen Gallagher, Chief of Staff, 38 CBG.

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Winnipeg, Man. Focussing on bridge and gap

reconnaissance, 31 Engineer Squadron (31 ES) of

38 Combat Engineer Regiment, conducted Exercise

CASTOR PROSPECT 15 out of McGregor Armouryand around the city of Winnipeg to develop our

units capabilities in bridge classification and

surveying, December 5-6, 2015.

Each training day started with familiarization

lectures, followed by hands-on training, the first

of which was on bridge classification, methods of

attack for bridge demolitions, and bridge demolition

recce reports. The squadron broke into four groups

to visit bridge sites around the city of Winnipeg:

the pedestrian bridge at Assiniboine Park; the

Provencher Bridge; the Chief Peguis Trail bridge;

and Elm Park Bridge.

With daytime temperatures reaching towards double digits, there

was almost no snow at all to contend with.

The exercise was run by the Fort Garry Horse, with the Garrys

conducting recce screens to make contact with the enemy force,

and lure them into a trap set by the Winnipeg Infantry TacticalGroup (WITG).

Captain Sean Hennessey of the Royal Winnipeg Rifles was the

O.C. for the combat team on the exercise, overseeing members

from around 38 CBG.

The purpose of this exercise is to highlight where you need to

improve, said Capt Hennessey. Thats what were going to do.

Lieutenant-Colonel David Koltun of the Fort Garry Horse said he

couldnt speak higher of the troops on the exercise.

The weekend went well, said LCol Koltun. Spirit was high, and

there was good training value by developing and strengthening

weaknesses and emphasizing strengths.

Medic! Medic! Is it Real or isit Moulage?By 2Lt Derek Gagnon, 38 CBG PAO

CFB Shilo, Man. Ahh, I got shot in the arm!

These are not words you want to hear, but luckily for

Private Braedan Peters of 17 Field Ambulance, it was

part of a simulated casualty evacuation scenario during

Collective Training weekend number six. The exercise ran

from 1820 March, featuring combined arms training and

advance to contact scenarios, with the Winnipeg InfantryTactical Group (WITG) taking the lead for the exercise.

Members of 31 Engineer Squadron (31 ES) of 38 Combat

Engineer Regiment (38 CER) used heav y equipment to dig

foxholes, allowing the members of the WITG to be fully

dug in by the time the enemy force began attacking them

on Saturday morning.

At each bridge site, we discussed bridge

classification, options for method of attack and

the challenges on each (skill sets, and equipment

required to emplace demolition charges). We

conducted a more detailed bridge recce on the Elm

Park Bridge, taking measurements and completing

recce reports for review from the subject matter

experts.

Feeling the warmth on CT4By 2Lt Derek Gagnon, 38 CBG PAO

CFB Shilo, Man. Youre not going to get a warmer winter training exercise than this,

unless youre stationed in Panama.

It was not your normal winter training exercise when members from around the

38 Canadian Brigade Group (38 CBG) descended upon CFB Shilo for Ex. TATANKA on

Combined Training Weekend #4 from December 4-6.

Pte Peters was wounded during an attack on the

Saturday afternoon, with the bene fit of moulage to make

his injury appear lifelike. Corporal Jeremiah Sinclair of

17 Field Ambulance was tasked with providing aid for his

fellow medic, while members of the WI TG provided aid

and surrounding security. Once Pte Peters was bandaged

up by Cpl Sinclair, he was stretchered further back from

the line to await transport

You learn quite a lot when youre the victim, said Pte

Peters. It allows you the time to think about whats

going on, and what steps need to be taken in treatment.

The field is much bet ter than when youre in a clinical

setting, said Cpl Sinclair. I ended up utilizing members

of the infantry, and employing them so that I could b etter

carry out the task.

Sergeant Calin Ritchie discussed how moulage enhance s

the training experience for new medics.

One of the biggest benefits of moulage is the realism

it provides to a scenario, said Sgt Ritchie. Its great to

apply the moulage, and then say to the medics treating

the victim treat their injuries as you find them.

In the end, Pte Peters ended up pulling through, his

wound healed as fast as he was able to wash it off and

the members of 17 Field Ambulance learned from the

scenario.

On day two, our training focus changed to the gap

recce, which was covered in a similar fashion,

each of our groups from 31 ES conducting two gap

recces in the vicinity of St Charles Range.

Overall the training was well received, with some

of our members seeing bridge recces and bridge

demolition training for the first time.

Bridge Gap Reconnaissance

in WinnipegBy Captain Adam Gamble, 38 CER Winnipeg

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Kenosee Lake, Sask. MAN THROUGH THE ICE! MAN THROUGH THE ICE!

The four sections of the Saskatchewan Dragoons leapt into action with no

hesitation. The lead man in the toboggan march had fallen through the ice as

we were crossing the lake. The lead toboggan immediately dropped their rucks

and threw out the rope line. Two and 3 Section got to work at erecting a tent,

with stoves and lanterns being lit. Four Section radios in to higher to arrange

evacuation.

I looked over to the break in the ice to see how well the rescue was going. One

Section had pulled the individual out of the water and was dragging him to

thicker ice. I watched as they started getting his wet clothes off and wrapping

him in jackets and a sleeping bag. We had the corners of the tent up and raised

the pole by now. The troops were getting the guy lines in place as the stoves

and lanterns started making their way into the tent. Four minutes had passed

by now, and we hurried the wet and shivering man into the tent.

Alright guys, good job! Four minutes, I bet we could do three! This was the

prelude to our exercise at Moose Mountain Provincial Park in Kenosee Lake,

Saskatchewan. We were trekking approximately six kilometres, half of it over

ice, and the Battle Captain, Captain Adelle Bittner, wanted to go over a rescues

drill for if a man was to go through the ice.

We were on our way to our biv site Saturday morning where, for Collective

Training #5, we were to concentrate on some winter survival skills.

We conducted in-class lectures on how to construct an improvised shelter,

but now we were finally going to build one.

We reached our location, which was set out in the orders that morning; the

troops were left to brew up lunch as the section commanders set out to look

for a suitable location in the trees for the shelters. With four sections, we

figured a double lean-to would work the best. It would also serve in keeping

troops together to maximize comradery and learn some skills from those of us

who have previous experience in survival training. Luckily the location only had

three or four inches of snow on the ground, but an endless supply of deadfall

and other materials suitable for adding some comforts.

The troops practiced lighting fires with a magnesium and flint striker prior to

getting the shelters constructed. Unfortunately, this part of Moose Mountain

Park had very few pine trees necessary to construct a proper lean-to. Luckily

By Sgt Everett Buckmaster, 1 Troop Sgt, Saskatchewan Dragoons, Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan

Sask DsNo Fish Were Harmed

there were some cattails nearby, and we were able to find enough grass for

some bedding. We lined the walls and roofs with groundsheets and reflective

blankets.

That night, we relaxed by our fires with some smokies, bacon on a stick and

whatever else the troops decided to bring with them. Some even went out and

tried their luck at a little ice fishing; no fish were harmed during this particular

activity.

Morale was high despite an exhausting 4 hour toboggan march to the site,

and everyone was a little sore and worn outall of us ready to go to groundby 2000 hrs. That night was dead calm and maybe -5 degrees outside: perfect.

The next morning, we got up and simply dismantled the shelters, dispersing the

wood that we had accumulated in order to make the area as it was when we

arrived. By 0800, we were back on the toboggans and headed to Squadron HQ,

who were having a rough goin the heated emergency cabin.

The After Action Review of the exercise was mostly positivea new idea for

most of our members to go on an exercise outside of a military facility. They

found it both challenging and exciting at the same time. We passed around a

lot of ideas on what we would all like to see for next year in order to expand on

the skills we learned, and we look forward to the next Ex!

9WINTER SPRING2016


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Operational Service Medal awarded to WO Loverin

Fort Garry Horse Guidon is RelocatedBy Captain Gordon Crossley, Fort Garry Horse

Winnipeg, Man. In November 2014, the staff at the Legislature asked about

moving the Fort Garry Horse Regular Force Guidon as they intended to renovate

the lobby. They had a desire to concentrate all military commemorative items

in one area of the building to be designated the Hall of Honour.

On 30 June 2015 the old case was opened up, the Guidon was covered with

cloths to protect it, and it was hand carried to the art vault in the basement

of the Legislative Building, taking care not to fold or stress the silk, which had

been hanging in one position for 45 years.

By Capt George Romick, Lake Superior Scottish Regiment

Thunder Bay, Ont. Warrant Officer Craig Loverin of the Lake Superior Scottish

Regiment received the Operational Service MedalHumanitus for his services

during Operation RENAISSANCE on March 13, 2016 at the OKelly Armoury in

Thunder Bay.

WO Loverin was part of Joint Task Force Philippines/Op RENAISSANCE in

which he acted as a Liaison Officer for the municipalities of Cuartero and

Libacao in the Provinces of Capiz and Aklan in the Philippines from Nov 25 toDec 26, 2013.

Being of Filipino descent was an asset to WO Loverin, as he was familiar with

the language and the culture of the people. Just being half Filipino, to them,

was enough. It meant a lot to the people of the Philippines, especially because

they didn't realize that there were Filipinos in the Canadian Armed Forces.

The devastation from Typhoon Haiyan was the deadliest in the nation's history

and one of the most powerful ever throughout the world. More than 6000

people were killed in the Philippines and many others were left homeless.

It was devastating," said WO Loverin. But experience in the Philippines

provided him with a valuable opportunity to discover some of his roots. It was

an eye opener for me. I learned a lot about the culture itself, more than what

I had been taught when I was a kid. It was definitely a learning experience.

On 19 January 2016, the new display case was ready in the Hall of Honour in

the Legislative Building. Chief Warrant Officer Christopher Hayden, Regimental

Sergeant-Major of the Fort Garry Horse (FGH), and Captain Gord Crossley, FGH

second-in-command, brought the Guidon and pike from the art vault in the

basement of the Legislature. The Regular Force FGH Guidon now hangs in the

new Hall of Honour, next to regimental and military plaques and copies of the

Books of Remembrance that lie in the Peace Tower in the Parliament Building

in Ottawa.

The 1963 Guidon of The Fort Garry Horse (the Militia title was dropped in

1970) remains in use with the regiment in Winnipeg. A plan is in place to have

it replaced in future with a new Guidon incorporating the Theatre Honour

AFGHANISTAN.

Captain Gord Crossley, Second in Command of Fort Garry Horse unveils the RegimentalGuidon, in its new case at the Manitoba Legislature building in Winnipegon January 19, 2016.

The Fort Garry Horse Regimental Guidon is installed in a new display case in the Hall ofHonour at the Manitoba Legislature Building in Winnipeg on January 19, 2016.

10 WINTER SPRING2016


11/28

CFAD Dundurn Soldiers from 38 Combat Engineer Regiment (38 CER) in

Saskatoon took part in Exercise STEEL SAPPER at Canadian Forces Base (CFB)

Dundurn, March 11 to 13, 2016. Run annually, the Exercise aims to refresh

soldiers knowledge and safe application of high explosives for demolitions

one of the many different skill sets which combat engineers possess.

In the weeks leading up to the exercise, soldiers underwent dry refresher

training using inert training aids made to simulate the look and feel of live

explosives, and the senior corporals practiced calculating the size of explosive

charge needed to effectively destroy certain targets.

At the Dundurn Destruction Range, our soldiers were presented with a variety

of targets to attack including steel I-beams, bar and plate of various thickness,

railroad track, timber, and reinforced concrete blocks. After gathering

measurements and data, and performing their charge calculations, the soldiers

set to work constructing their explosive charges. After placing and fixing their

charges to the targets, and having received and attached the detonators,

soldiers retreated to the cover of the nearby bunker to initiate the demolitions.

The troops safely watched these explosions through the thick glass windows of

the bunker, and were satisfied to see the results. Once the all clear was given,

they excitedly filed out of the bunker and headed back down the hill to admire

their handiwork, and most importantly, to see which charges were effective

and which were not. In a real situation where engineers would use explosives,

the goal may be to destroy entire bridges, structures, or military assets, or to

create or clear obstacles to improve mobility. As a result, it's important for the

individual troop to see and understand the effects of using the right amount of

explosive and proper charge placement.

Following the demolitions, the soldiers of 38 CER were given a rare training

opportunity that most Primary Reserve engineers don't get: each member was

allowed to arm and disarm a live anti-tank mine. Once everyone had a run

through, the mines were also disposed of safely by use of explosive charges.

Just as with the explosives used during the exercises, the troops had plenty

of training beforehand on inert practice mines, and while some may have beenunnerved at first about disarming a live explosive weapon, they all came out of

the exercise confident in their equipment and training.

Ex STEEL SAPPER:Building Confidence in an Unnerving Training GroundBy Master Corporal Robert Foisy, 38 CER, 46 Engineer Squadron, Saskatoon.

11WINTER SPRING2016


12/28

Red River College photography program students were thrilled at the

opportunity to par ticipate with the Canadian Armed Forces in Exercise FIRST

RUN in Gimli, Man.

The photographic experiences gained will prove to be a wonderful asset to

the students' portfolio of work. We wish to thank 38 Canadian Brigade Group

and 17 Wing for this wonderful opportunity.

Participating photographers: Alexis Leask, Jensen Maxwell,Joe Kerr and K. J. Rocan



13/28

By 2Lt Derek Gagnon, 38 CBG PAO

ARCG makes the most

of their First Run

Gimli, Man. Fierce cold, a biting wind and the aliens that allegedly crashed

near Jackhead, Man. on last years winter exercise are just some of the things

that soldiers of 38 Canadian Brigade Group have to fight. The little green men

were out near Gimli again from January 15 to 17 this year, but it wasnt the

reported aliens of 2015s Exercise ARCTIC BISON making a commotion.

No, just like last year it was the members of the Arctic Response Company

Group (ARCG) out on the ice of Lake Winnipeg for Ex FIRST RUN, preparing to

go to Resolute Bay, Nunavut for Ex ARCTIC RAM.

Soldiers deployed in preparation for the search and rescue exercise to come

from February 12 to 21. With temperatures during the exercise colder in Gimli

than they were in Resolute, the environment proved why winter warfare skills

are so important in the Canadian Armed Forces.

The cold, open terrain of Lake Winnipeg is similar in some ways to the high

Arctic, but Lieutenant-Colonel (LCol) Dave Fraser, who commanded the

exercise, said that it doesnt compare to what the soldiers will face on Ex

ARCTIC RAM in one of the worlds most remote regions.

Its arguably one of the most beautiful places on the planet, said LCol Fraser.

But it is harsh and unforgiving, and we have to be able to protect that part ofthe world. Were here to teach these young men and women how to do that.

The 120 soldiers of the ARCG come from around 38 Canadian Brigade Group.

Private Katie Commer is a member of the North Saskatchewan Regiment

(N Sask R), and noted how being able to operate in the extreme cold will

ultimately make other tasks easy by comparison later on.

If we can get through this, we can get through anything, said Pte Commer.

While some members have gone on northern exercises before, dealing with the

extreme cold was a first for some members, who quickly learned how to adapt

to their environment.

Its all about making sure youre dressed properly, said Trooper William

Halabiski of the Fort Garry Horse. Sometimes you overdress or underdress,

but you learn these things as you go.

The Canadian environment has long been home to some of the best and

bravest explorers, and LCol Fraser looks forward to adding new names to that

list when Ex ARCTIC RAM begins.

The cold will slow us down, but we cant stop if were going to get the job

done that our country wants us to, said LCol Fraser.

I wear my heart on my sleeve, but those young men and women out there;they represent the best of Canada.

13WINTER SPRING2016


14/28

EXERCISEARCTIC RAM 2016Imagine your worst scenario of problems and multiply it by three,stated WO Erich Gryszczuk, planning warrant for the exercise. The north isunforgiving.



15/28

It took over a year of prep, with three gateway exercises, including one weekend

in Gimli that was actually colder than the Arctic. All this, for one week in February

in Resolute Bay, Nunavut where 120 soldiers (mostly Reservists) deployed to the

Canadian Forces Arctic Training Centre just a few hundred kilometres south of theNorth Pole! Best of all, this was a first for a brigade of reservists already capable of

conducting winter search and recovery operations in severe cold weather after all

they are from the frozen prairies.

Enjoy the imagery form MCpl Cam Skrypnyk and MCpl Louis Brunet. Enjoy the

article by Danielle Doiron- uniquely placed in the Destinations section of the

Winnipeg Free Press. Enjoy our history!

38 BRIGADE ARCG MAKES

ITS OWN HISTORY

15WINTER SPRING2016


16/28

Yellowknife, NWT Could Yellowknife receive

almost four times as many evacuees as normal?

How would they be sheltered, fed, watered, and

otherwise provided for? It was these questions that

the Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) team from 38

Influence Activities Company (38 IA Coy) answeredduring their most recent deployment on Exercise

ARCTIC RAM 2016.

Yellowknife, with a population of 20,000, is the

largest city in the Northwest Territories and the

primary destination for any evacuees in that

territory. Like most provinces and territories,

hazards include forest fires and floods that, to date,

have not required Yellowknife to accommodate

more than 400 evacuees at a time. However, forest

fires in 2015 came closer than normal to highly

populated areas and nearly forced the evacuation

of 1,500 residents.

Our team of five made our way to Yellowknife tomeet with the territorial government to sort out

just what questions needed to be answered. The

key was to determine how Yellowknifes assets

and economy could be brought together to provide

for an increasing number of evacuees. Next was

to meet with the citys administrators to see the

normal plans for receiving evacuees. With these

foundations, the only thing left was to engage with

the residents of the city itself. The CIMIC team

met with business owners, managers, municipal

officials and other local stakeholders throughout

the area, all in an effort to identify the citys

breaking points. There is only so much space in

which to house evacuees; there are only so many

showers and toilets; and there is only so much food

and water particularly during a forest fire or flood

when resupply routes could be cut off.

As the IA staff officer at the Land Task Force

headquarters for Ex ARCTIC RAM, I received

information from two sub-teams in the field: both

two-person sub-teamsmanaged by WO Andrew

Crawfordwere in constant motion trying to

meet with as many stakeholders as possible.

The information they collected fed a constantly

changing perception of Yellowknifes ability to

support evacuees. Strengths and weaknesses

were identified, but weaknesses in particular

triggered changes in the teams targets. Potential

weaknesses had to be accounted for and solved. If

Yellowknifes integral capacity proved insufficient,

then contingencies had to be designed.By the end of the exercise, back at headquarters, I

had synthesized all of the collected raw data into a

custom-made catalogue of resources, and a unique

assessment tool that would allow municipal and

territorial officials to gauge required resources

against increasing numbers of evacuees. This

information and this tool were gratefully receivedby the territorial government and the team received

a generous and open invitation to continue plying

its trade in the north.

Ex ARCTIC RAM was a novel deployment not just

for 38 IA Coy, but for Influence Activities in general

it marked the first occasion that real-time CIMIC

in support of a territorial government had been

conducted in the Joint Task Force North area of

operations.

As an ever-evolving military capability, Influence

Activities members should expect even more

original and unique tasks in the future that will

challenge their training, and hopefully even moredeployments north of 60.

By Capt Luke Coupal, 38 Influence Activities Company

38 Influence Activities Company Breaks New Ground North of 60



17/28

By Danielle Doiron

RESOLUTE, NUN.Dontexpect to see a polar bear. Itstoo cold. This is one of the

rst things more than 100 CanadianArmed Forces reservists heard as theyentered the Arctic Training Centre(ATC), where they are staying for atraining simulation.

Exercise Arctic Ram teachesmembers of the Arctic ResponseCompany Group to recover downedaircrafts or satellitesall whilewithstanding frigid temperatures andisolation in the High Arctic.

The ATC is located just northwest ofResolute on Cornwallis Island, Nu.,the farthest north reservists have everconducted an exercise. Here, wintertemperatures can reach -60 C, andlocals see only a few hours of sunlighteach day.

The land is barren and bleak.Simply stepping outside for a fewminutes requires heavy parkas andinsulated boots, but its ideal trainingconditions.

Every Canadian can go in the woodsand snowmobile in soft snow and allthat on the t rails, and its all fun,said Lieutenant Colonel (LCol) LucSt-Denis, who oversees the exercise.When you come here, youre in afrozen desert. There are no trees.Theres very little snow compared tothe south, but its rockhard under it.

Last Sunday, reservists fromManitoba, Saskatchewan and Ontariosnowmobiled across that frozendesert, where they would spend thenext few days sleeping in tents on theice as they move to Intrepid Bay andPolaris on Little Cornwallis Island,some 1,120 km north of the Arctic

Circle.

This team ran a similar trainingexercise in Gimli in January, butMajor James Meredith, the ofcer incommand, said nothing compares tothe real thing. Its a whole different

ball game, he said. The cold, thetemperature... you have no idea whatits going to be from one minute tothe next.

Medics have already treated severalpeople for frostbite . The extreme colddrains batteries and causes equipmentmalfunctions and engine failures

the same obstacles these reservistswill face if a real mission arises.

Still, Meredith said, it could beworse. Yes, its going to be cold, butright now were at about -30, and youguys are all pretty comfortable in it.Its not that bad.

Reporting from Exercise Arctic Ramfor the Free Press, Danielle Doironis a guest of the Canadian ArmedForces.

DestinationsWinnipeg Free Press

Frozen DESERTExercise Arctic Ram trains Canadian Armed Forces

reservists in harsh winter climate

17WINTER SPRING2016


18/28

By Major Mike Lagace, 38 CBG PAO

Yellowknife, NWT For twenty-five soldiers in Yellowknife, the days between

12-20 February saw very long and stressful hours ensuring soldiers on the

high Arctic ice and snow would come back safe. BV-206 winter units were thecomfort for the army reservists in Resolute Baygreat food made by three

reservists for the soldiers was the comfort for the Task Force controlling their

movements.

Every day the headquarters staff raved time after time about the excellence

coming from a Master Corporal (MCpl) working out of the Arctic detachment on

the outskirts of Yellowknife.

For this reporter, meeting Jackie McCartan, a 24-year-old military cook from 38

Service Battalion, Winnipeg, was like meeting a rock star. After all, I had to eat

during that week as well and even the last two nights, with Thai chicken and

steak night, provided great meals. Its a bit hard trying to even write this story

without a nap a story about a young reservist who truly kept the morale of

the soldiers high and well fed.

Her boss, Petty Officer 2nd Class Scott Helland, 39, a reservist from Gagetown,N.B., laid it out for her on this task. It was sink or swim time for her. Clearly,

with all the ice and snow, she might not sink, but it was going to hurt.

Joining the Reserves at 16, MCpl McCartan recalled why she joined the service

battalion as a cook. I was told its lots of fun and you get to keep warm in the

field in a flying kitchen. I dont like cold so two other cooks really encouraged

me to keep cooking. Well they have since left, and her stock value has risen

like in a gold rush. She runs the flying kitchen now!

Looking towards her future as the Brigade Chief Cook, MCpl McCartan sees

her future very clearly. I really enjoy the cooking and this experience- cooking

for my Brigade. Getting up at 0430 every morning to have breakfast ready for

a bunch of hungry folks 10 kilometres away, working until 8 at nightmissing

the aurora borealis was well worth it knowing a full headquarters couldnt wait

to open up the hay boxes and bag lunches. It was her personal mission to keepthem happy and ready to continue the operation to get the soldiers off the ice

and back home.

Rock Star or Angel Make a Choice

The Food was Worth It



19/28

19WINTER SPRING2016


20/28

EXBISONWARRIOR

AUG13-21 2016


21/28

Command Team Commendation for Exceptional Serviceto Master Corporal Joshua PeneycadIn recognition of his outstanding support and dedication to the overall Day to Day

and Exercise Operations of The Saskatchewan Dragoons in his role as a Squadron

Quartermaster of the unit.

Throughout his tenure as the Quartermaster, Master Corporal Joshua Peneycad

has provided excellent support to the unit through the management of the units

vehicles and equipment. He has been invaluable in the replacement of the entire

units communications equipment and additionally, has shown an interest in

acquiring other necessary items for the units exercises and daily operations. He is

a critical thinker who can pre-empt equipment deficiencies before they impact unit

training, allowing the unit to maintain a high efficiency standard.

In appreciation for his outstanding initiative, professionalism and dedication to

The Saskatchewan Dragoons, Master Corporal Peneycad is presented with the 38

Canadian Brigade Group Command Team Commendation

The Commander Canadian Army Commendation

Is presented to Warrant Officer Wallace C. RicksIn recognition of his outstanding execution of duty while employed as the 2nd

Battalion Princess Patricias Canadian Light Infantry Unit Embarkation Officer

from July 2013 to March 2014. Warrant Officer Ricks attention to detail and

unwavering professional conduct resulted in a seamless deployment and

redeployment of Shilo based soldiers and Canadian Armed Forces augmentees

for the final rotation of Operation ATTENTION. Warrant Officer Ricks approached

these duties with exceptional enthusiasm and great skill, reflecting great credit

upon himself and the Canadian Army.

Operation ATTENTION was Canadas participation in the NATO Training MissionAfghanistan which delivered training and professional development support to thenational security forces of Afghanistan: the Afghan National Army, the Afghan AirForce, and the Afghan National Police.

The Joint Staff Certificate of Commendation toLieutenant Dyllan MillerFrom September 23 to October 9, 2015 select soldiers of The Royal

Regina Rifles (RRR) were tasked to participate in Exercise BOLD

QUEST (EX BQ) at Fort Bliss, Texas. EX BQ is an annual multinational

exercise to test new emerging technical equipment and Coalition

interoperability. Collective success is directly traceable to individual

dedication such as Lt Miller's. Lieutenant Dyllan Miller performed

his mentor and platoon commander duties with unprecedented

competence and energy, excelling in leading a multi-national

platoon composed of soldiers from three nations. He performed his

responsibilities with utmost professionalism, executing successful

missions in challenging virtual, and live training environments.

His performance in BQ 15.2 provided an extraordinarily positive

reflection upon the Canadian Armed Forces in a multinational

environment.

ACT WITH HONOUR

STRONgIt is my duty to be STRONG and SUPPORT you. I will do what

is right. I will prevent sexual harassment and assault. I will not

tolerate offensive beha vior.

We are a STRONG team and I will not permit behavior that

weakens my team.

I am PROUD to be a soldier.

As Canadians we respect the dignity

of all persons. HONOUR flows from

this value. Predators and bullies arenot welcome in the Canadian Armed

Forces.

We are Canadian soldiers. It is our mission to

prevent sexual harassment and assault. We are

READY to denounce sexual misconduct. We will

condemn obscene gestures, language or beha vior.

We will ACT.

Sexual Misconduct Response Centre: 1-844-750-1648

DND/CAF Ombudsman: 1-888- 828-3 626

Emergency: 911

"Any form of harmful sexual behavior undermineswho we are. It is a threat to operational readinessand is a threat to this institution. It stops now."- Gen Jonathan Vance, CDS

PROUd

REAdy

21WINTER SPRING2016


22/28

When we found out the Grey Cup was coming to town, 38 Canadian Brigade

Group and 17 Wing Winnipeg teamed up to display military equipment at the

University of Winnipeg United Health RecPlex.

For this 103rd edition, the citys Committee made the finals into a week-long

fan street festival in the downtown area from November 25 to 28, 2015,

promoting football and physical activities.

Members of the Royal Canadian Air Force and the Canadian Army were

on location to talk with the public and answer questions about what they

do in their military jobs and the equipment they use. Forces members also

raced against visitors willing to compete on the obstacle course. Its pretty

interesting and challenging. They set it up so that kids and adults can do it,

said Private David Holmesacourt from North Saskatchewan Regiment.

Visitors enjoyed a hands-on experience with the equipment including a CF-18

cockpit, a G Wagon, a bomb disarming robot and a flight simulator. Caleb

Abraham and Ethan Diakow, two students from the University of Winnipeg

were partial to the tactical vests and helmets available to wear while

competing in the obstacle course. Its the same as football gear, maybe a little

lighter.

By Cpl Jean Archambault, Image Technician, 38 CBG Public Affairs

The Santa Claus/Grey Cup parade concluded the Festival. The Snowbirds

kicked off the parade with a close formation fly past. Two Canadian Armed

Forces (CAF) Light Armored Vehicles escorted marching troops, competing for

the best float.

As for the football game, the CAF was involved with the opening ceremonies;

one hundred members, holding a giant Canadian flag, walked onto the field

along with a loud and impressive CF-18 fly past over Investors Group Field.

Warrant Officer Maciej Witkowski, participating in the parade, said it was areally rewarding experience. Its incredible how much people really appreciate

the military in our city; people were clapping as we were passing by. I am

proud to be in the military.

Grey Cup Touches Down

In Winnipeg


The Winnipeg Jets hosted their 3rd annual Canadian ArmedForces (CAF) appreciation night on March 6th at the MTSCentre. The Winnipeg Jets and their fans supplied more than550 tickets to CAF members and their families.

The pre-game ceremony featured Search and RescueTechnicians rappelling from the MTS Centre rafters.

Mark Chipman, True North Sports and EntertainmentChairman, presented a cheque of $100,000 towards selectCanadian Armed Forces initiatives.

Jets ForcesAppreciation


23/28

23WINTER SPRING2016

Facebook Post Goes ViralBrigade Members Make Child's Day
http://supportourtroopsgala.com/https://www.facebook.com/38CBG/http://supportourtroopsgala.com/https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=498321953690260&set=a.157209247801534.1073741830.100005373788560&type=3&theaterhttp://www.forces.ca/


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Major Activities CalendarJuly to December 2016



25/28

25WINTER SPRING2016

The Chance of a lifetime: A Bison in Eastern EuropeBy Maj Piotr Sliwowski, 38 Canadian Brigade Group

The learning experience of being a Language Cultural Advisor (LCA) and

Combat Service Support Commander on an overseas deployment was

challenging, priceless, and a chance of a lifetime. Between July, 2015 and

February, 2016 I deployed with soldiers from 5 Canadian Mechanized Brigade

Group, on Operation REASSURANCECanadas support in NATOs response

to Russian aggression against Ukraine.

I was hired for this position because of my Polish heritage and familiarity with

the culture. Being trilingual in Polish, French, and English, was also an assetbecause the Task Force was a Francophone rotation out of Quebec.

As the LCA, I translated for the Land Task Force Commander and served as a

liaison officer between the Land Task Force and the Polish Military Forces for

planning service and support, exercises, and interoperability. I also had the

pleasure of providing translation support to Community Relations events at

schools, parades and endless welcoming communities.

As an infantry officer I found myself in a steep learning curve. Three months

into the tour I was promoted to the position of Combat Service Support

Commander. I was then responsible for a large vehicle fleet, personnel

management, movements, supply, contracting, fuel and rations of the Land

Task Force in Eastern Europe. Fortunately, I was already familiar with the

projects, having translated for them in my capacity as LCA, and I had a wide

array of very professional specialists and trade advisors to lean on.

The work load throughout the tour was heavy, working long days and the

majority of weekends, and spending many days on the road living out of my

ruck sack and kit bag. But the skills and experience that I acquired on my

deployment will most definitely serve me well throughout my Army career.

I highly recommend this Operation to anyone considering deploying. It is a

unique, very important and adventurous tour.

38 Brigade at Fort KnoxBy MWO Marc Lavoie, G4 Maintenance 2, 38 CBG HQ

Canadian Armed Forces members made their way south of the border to Fort

Knox, Kentucky to take part in Combat Support Training Exercise (CSTX) 16-01

in March, the goal of which is to provide support to the theatre of operation

via the 77th Sustainment Brigade (77th SB). This marks the final exercise

of a three-year readiness cycle for the US Army Reserve (USAR) and, upon

completion, declares forces operational ready.

With passports in hand, we met our guide at the main gate located just across

from the Fort Knox federal gold reserve. After clearing security we made

our way to the camp. It didnt take long to draw attention and turn heads as

we moved around the camp in our Canadian uniforms. Troops and officers

of all ranks were quick to welcome us, introducing themselves with friendly

handshakes and questions of hockey and the snow we left behind in Canada.

Our team consisted of 11 Canadians: seven members from 36 Canadian Brigade

Group (CBG), two from 38 CBG, and two from the 5th Canadian Division

Support Base Gagetown. We were employed in various staff positions within

77th Sustainment Brigade Headquarters (SB HQ), partnering up with our

American counterparts in similar fields of operation.

The 77th SB had two actual, and two notional Combat Service Support

Battalions (CSSBs) under its command. In order to simulate real time and

space, the two actual CSSBs were to execute operations in Joint Base

McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst (Fort Dix) New Jersey, with the SB HQ in Fort Knox.

As the G4 Maintenance Officer, I was right at home in the Maintenance Section

tracking the tactical Vehicle off Road (VOR) and equipment readiness for 1

Cavalry Division and the 316th Sustainment Command Group. This was the first

time I would have to track the serviceability of helicopters in a VOR report. I

was also able to move from section to section to learn as much as I could from

our American brothers and sisters.

Major Chirag Hingwala, 38 CBG G4, was responsible to the BrigadeCommander for matters concerning internal sustainment and readiness. The S4

staff ensures that the Sustainment Brigade and subordinate CSSBs have the

assets and support required in order to accomplish their mission, and supports

USAR in reaching their exercise training objectives.

With all training objectives completed, End Ex was called and the training

exercise deemed a success. We kicked off our final day at Fort Knox with a

formation parade where the 11 of us were recognized for our efforts in working

as a productive team. Four of our members received the US Army Achievement

Medal, including our own Maj Hingwala. We felt a sense of great team

accomplishment and benefitted from training with our American Allies. I would

encourage our Brigade soldiers to take advantage of similar opportunities as

they come up in the future.


26/28

Corporal Domonique Guay (FGH) explaining the characteristics and operation of the C6GPMG to students of KEC (again) with assistance from Private Tammy Storseth (FGH) onthe parade square of McGregor Armoury.

Students in Soldiers' Shoes

Corporal Chantal Chapil and Corporal Eric Penny explain the prone position during theweapons training portion of Soldier for a Day, hosted by 38 Service Battalion at MintoArmouries on April 30, 2016.

By 2Lt Stacie Nelles, PAO, 38 Canadian Brigade Group

Winnipeg, Man. This Relay - make safe! Huh? Well it was their first day

with a C7A2 (C7) assault rifle, after all.

With all the buzz of first-day-of-school excitement, twenty-two participants,

aged 16 to 45-years-old, dove into the world of the Canadian Reserve

Force38 Service Battalion (38 Svc Bn) style. Soldier for a Day was hosted by

the unit on Saturday, April 30th, in order to give curious civilians a glimpse into

what goes on behind the walls of Minto Armouries in Winnipeg.

It wasnt quite basic training for these temporary recruits, but they were

certainly in for a ride. Nineteen-year-old Lyndon Jr. Daquigan said the day met

his expectations, but he realized early on that he didnt need to be as nervous

as he initially felt. Jessica Andrada was very excited to get started because

you get to learn new things you havent seen anywhere else.

Participants get to see how the service battalion operates, explained

Second Lieutenant (2Lt) James Arkle, 17 Service Companys 2IC. The event

promotes recruiting and helps participants gain a better insight into the

Reserves. For students, we know that its attractive because it works with

their schedule as an exciting part-time job during the school year, with full-time

opportunities in the summer.

After tours and briefings on the various trades within 38 Svc Bn, the group was

ready for some hands-on activity, including lunch. For these soldiers-for-a-day,

field meals are as mysterious a code to be cracked, as the workings of a C7 and

the three squads of standing at attention.

At lunch, the Individual Meal Packages (IMPs) were well received, with oneparticipant asking if he could take one home!

Then, the moment they were all waiting for: hands-on C7 training, but not

before an in-depth introduction and safety briefing. First impressions? I knew

it was going to be heavy and I would need to work on my strength, says

Daquigan. All those video games, they lied to me, he quipped. The group

learned that weapons handling is certainly not as easy as it looks.

A short but well executed lesson in drill rounded out the experience for the

recruits, which, to some, felt like real basic training.

The feedback from participants has been pretty positive, said 2Lt Arkle.

Theyre very interested in everything that were doing here. At the end of the

day, we may be drivers and technicians, but were soldiers first. And thats

what participants came to learn.

Soldier For A Day with

38 Service Battalion

"Ever forward never back" Progredere Ne Regredere


By MCpl Jeremy Slot, Fort Garry Horse

Winnipeg, Man. Fort Garry Horse and 31 Engineer Squadron hosted twelve

Grade 11 students from Kildonan East Collegiate as Soldiers for a Day atMcGregor Armoury on March 11, 2016.

Upon arrival, the students were welcomedor motivatedby their

new instructors to form up for their drill lesson. They learned basic drill and

marching before being separated into 3 groups. Teacher John Thompson, runs

a program at Kildonan East called Ethical Dimension, which is about "putting

yourself in the shoes of others, he said. Its neat when you get to learn from

people in the trade who have been through situations and other aspects we

have all read about."

Students were given the opportunity to ask questions and get their hands on

weapons, body armour, breaching kit and a Mercedes G-Wagon. After a crash

course in handling the C7A2 assault rifle, they were then sent to the Small

Arms Trainer where they engaged virtual targets under the watchful eyes of

their instructors.Captain Gordon Crossley gave the group a tour of the Fort Garry Horse

Museum, and introduced them to the history of the regiment, from Cavalry

days to Afghanistan.

At the end of the day, some students expressed an interest in what the military

has to offer. Brayden Kuklik said, "I could see myself possibly becoming a

combat engineer". Others, just happy to have the experience, were engaged

more by what they learned in the museum, or while handling the equipment.

McGregor Armoury prides itself in being an entity within the community and

welcomes opportunities like this to share its stories, wisdom and esprit de

corps with anyone interested in offering their time.


27/28

Recruiting in Northwest OntarioBy MBdr Lynn Danielson, 116th Independent

Field Battery Royal Canadian Artillery

Kenora, Ont. Hey, do you like camping?

Power point presentations in schools and display booths at

various locations are still key for attracting interest in the

Canadian Armed Forces (CAF). However, the job of a CAF

recruiter does not simply entail standing for hours behind a tablein one building after another waiting for people to come by and

drawing their attention with a catch phrase.

There are many organizations vying for applicants, and

recruiting for the CAF demands unique, effective and somewhat

unconventional ways of inspiring interest and trust in potential

recruits as well as their educators and leaders.

The area of responsibility in Northwest Ontario covers over 500

square km with 7 major centres 1.5 to 3 hours away from Kenora.

It is also home to more than 20 First Nation communities which

have the highest growth in youth population in Canada.

In the eight years I have been a recruiter for my artillery unit in

Kenora, I have learned that it is imperative that events organized

and attended are done in such a way as to reach out and educate

people about who we are and what we do in a more personal

manner.

One isolated community I go to requires transport by windjammer

in the late winter when the ice road is unsafe, and by barge

over the open water the rest of the year. I am the only Canadian

Armed Forces member to ever visit the community. Our growing

relationship has produced their very first Bold Eagle applicant

with hopes of more to come.

Special events in communities such as fairs, parades,

tournaments, Pow Wows and harvests are attended and

activities participated in alongside local citizens. This promotes

easy dialogue which forms new, long lasting relationships and

networking for future recruiting events.

Events on the Armoury floor such as Soldier for a Day and FORCE

Evaluation trials have garnered increased interest for those who

wanted to try it out before committing pen to paper.

You may not get applicants at that moment, but the seed is

planted and in my experience is one that continually provides

some harvest each year.

To find the recruiter nearest you, log on toforces.ca and click on "find a recruiter".

Email: [email protected]

NORTHWEST ONTARIO

Kenora Amoury

800 11th Ave North General Delivery STN Main

Kenora, Ontario P9N 3W9

807-468-6749 or 1-855-363-3289

Thunder Bay Amoury

317 Park Avenue

Thunder Bay, Ontario P7B 1C7

807-343-5179 or 1-855 -316-2185

MANITOBA

Minto Armoury

969 St. Mathews Avenue, Room 138

Winnipeg, Manitoba R3G 0J7204-786-4345 or 1-866-462-2769

Brandon Amoury

1116 Victoria Avenue

Brandon, Manitoba R7A 1B2

1-888-728-7559 ext 243

SASKATCHEWAN

Yorkton Amoury

56-1st Avenue North

Yorkton, Saskatchewan S3N 1J5

306-786-4555

Lieutenant Colonel D.V. Currie VC Amoury

1215 Main St N

Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan S6H 6M3

1-866-462-2769

Regina Amoury

1600 Elphinstone St

Regina, Saskatchewan S4T 3N1

Sergeant Hugh Cairns VC Amoury

930 Idylwyld Dr

Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7L 0Z6

1-866-462-2769

Prince Albert Amoury

802 Exhibition Dr

Prince Albert, Saskatchewan S6V 5R8

306-763-3919

38 Brigade Army Reserve

Recruiting Centres

"Ever forward never back" Progredere Ne Regredere

27WINTER SPRING2016


28/28

Corporal Curt Fender, from 38 Signals Regiment installsan antenna during Collective Training 6 at CFB Shiloon March 19, 2016. The Brigade training will culminatein August with Ex BISON WARRIOR.

Documents

The Brigade - WS16