May 2021

Robert Land Academy The Loyalist Inside 30 years of dedicated service This Issue Major B Simmons Hearing that Major (Al) Spaan started his employ- ment thirty years ago at Robert Land Bug run Academy on May 31, 1991. Before Al saddled himself behind the desk A Message from of Academy finance, he served in the Lincoln & Welland Regiment for thir- the Headmaster teen years, serving a six month tour of duty in Cyprus attached to the Princess Fraser Eadie Patricia’s Light Infantry where he was awarded the United Nations Peace- and RLA keeping Forces in Cyprus, Canadian Peacekeeping Service, and Canadian Old Boy Decoration. Paul Vrana Al retired from the Forces in 2000 with the rank of Sergeant. Al then transi- crunching numbers on days. tioned from Cyprus to Wellandport. Al Taking a Dive began his career as a Staff Sergeant in Al’s role as the Administrative Officer 1991 until he completed his Commerce was less like an accountant and more degree from Brock University. At this like the Wizard of Oz. Walking into point, Al made another transition from supervising students on nights to Continued on Page 10 Make a Donation Bid At The Auction The Family Guild is looking for The auction goes live on June 11. donations for the online auction: Register online and shop often between • Products or Services June 11 and June 23. • Experiences, Vacation Stays, etc. Most items can be picked up at RLA on • Monetary Support June 26. www.Events.RLA.ca June 11 - June 23 www.Events.RLA.ca A Company Report It’s alive, it’s really alive. Hearing the bug run. Recruit C Baz

For the better part of four years I have seen the school’s VW Bug in various states. I’ve seen it full of holes; in pieces on the floor, just painted, polished, bare steel and covered in bondo. I was on bed rest with a cough in the barracks when I heard a distinct, low roar dart around campus. It was amazing to see Mr. Blaney doing laps with the bug. It instantly recharged my hope at the prospect that we would finish our long-term project and that it sounded so good! Hearing the raw exhaust were several hurdles that we had to be used safely. Although it took reverberate off the buildings at difficulty jumping as we ran into a great deal of time and it was the Academy around the lap track unidentified parts, short cuts that incredibly frustrating to not move made me think back to tearing turned into long cuts, and having on to another mini-project, when apart that engine, replacing seals, to redo some work until it was the pulleys looked professionally setting up the distributor, trying done to standard. Two years ago, finished, there was a sense of pride to figure out why the fuel pump as the engine was being prepped and accomplishment. I netted did not mount as easily as it did to be reinstalled, I volunteered to several compliments on those, but in the Youtube video we watched. refinish several components for more importantly, knowing the Those Wednesday mornings of the engine. The amount of detail attention to detail, the level of work cutting and welding steel, cursing and precision that was required and focus that goes into finishing the engineers that made the bug to refinish the timing pulleys was machinery was much more the way they did, taking out and a first. Until that point, I had no respected. putting back in the windows, idea how much detail was required Seeing the engine all painted and rewiring different components and to resurface steel. It took almost chromed out instantly revived mine at the end of every clubs day sitting 8 hours of various sanding, wire and other members of the Auto in the driver’s seat making sure the brushing, fine sanding, and re Club’s desire to get back to work clutch still worked. sanding, and more re sanding, and finish our project. I hope to Along the way, there have until finally the pulleys were able see you at the Auction! been some trying times. There “Much of my success I owe to RLA.” Your gift to the Founder’s Scholarship Fund will allow a young man to find that success. The fund provides tuition assistance to families whose sons would benefit from RLA’s program. The Founder’s Scholarship Fund GiveToRLA.ca Page 2 Message from the Headmaster Support RLA Robert Land Academy From The Heavens is a not-for-profit Founder’s RD Smid, MMM, MB, CD organization. School Scholarship fees cover the costs Lieutenant-Colonel (retired) to operate the school Fund Graduation will soon be upon us however additional and many words will be written programming, and spoken about the graduates capital improvements as they commence the next and the Founder’s exciting stage of their lives having Scholarship Fund are completed a very challenging funded solely through and stressful school year under donations. globally adverse pandemic conditions. For today though, I Please visit would like to focus on the deeds www.GiveToRLA.ca and accomplishments of a very different generation of young men who also faced great uncertainty during difficult and Along with the stressful times. At about this time 77 years ago, the men of Founder’s Scholarship the First Canadian Parachute Battalion were completing their Fund and our final rehearsals in preparation for their first operational jump Building Potential which would be into Normandy, France on 6 June 1944 in Fund, which covers support of Operation Overlord. campus improvements Despite a host of obstacles, the Battalion met all of their and major repairs, objectives during that operation and the many that followed RLA recently raised during what would prove to be the final year of World War funds for a rappel II. They were the only Canadian unit to fight in the Ardennes tower through our $120,000 (); they participated in the largest airborne 2021 Signature $112,500 operation ever to take place by jumping into the Rhine; Campaign. and they finished the war being the only Canadian unit to $105,000 encounter the Russians when they beat them by getting to the The climber has $97,500 coastal town of Wismar, Germany first. reached the top of $90,000 The First Canadian Parachute Battalion was an exceptional his rappel tower $82,500 unit and exemplified the Canadian spirit. Robert Land thanks to a grant $75,000 Academy was fortunate to have benefitted from the leadership from the Dan $67,500 and mentorship of so many of the Battalion’s veterans Foundation and including their final Commanding Officer, Lieutenant- $60,000 funds raised by the Colonel Fraser Eadie, who was the Chair of the Academy’s Family Guild wine $52,500 Board and for whom our parade square is named in his $45,000 honour. We are also grateful for the mentorship provided tasting event. $37,500 by Sergeant Ronald ‘Andy’ Anderson for whom one of our We appreciate the major graduation awards is named and for the memorabilia support for our $30,000 of Sergeant John Feduck which graces the foyer of our students and the $22,500 administration building providing a tangible reminder of the school. Thank you! $15,000 Battalion and its accomplishments. $7,500 Tower Academy Rappel Robert Land A new generation will shortly be making its mark on the world. I am hopeful that they will do so by exhibiting the same characteristics and values possessed by the men of Robert Land Academy the First Canadian Parachute Battalion. Their sacrifice and 6727 South Chippawa Rd example will continue to echo through the generations and Wellandport, ON L0R 2J0 they will always have a home at Robert Land Academy. Ex 905-386-6203 Coelis. www.rla.ca [email protected] Page 3 B Company Report Hard times, two Inspections, what’s next? Cadet N Thompson wasn’t on our same schedule and had gone into my turnout. v We lat- thinking about it now, I know it er finished the inspection and were Covid’s not over and it’s not like- paid off massively. I can’t thank called into the Common Room. ly to be until more vaccines are everyone enough, including our The ASM commented on the dras- administered, but myself and my Company Commander, our CSMs, tic overall improvement. Our Top peers in my company have seen and our evening staff for all the 3 boys also commented positively more than a company could take time and effort they put into help- on the teamwork we demonstrat- this year. ing our barracks come out as a ed. To celebrate we did push ups company with solid character. I with the ASM! I still remember Before our April Stand Down we also want to thank our Barracks the ASM saying “push up position, had two ASM/Headmaster inspec- and Platoon ICs> I can’t thank everywhere” and as a company we tions. During these times of prepa- those ICs enough for their contin- cracked out ten solid push ups as ration our barracks at first wasn’t uous efforts put into our company the team we were. where LCol Smid and CWO Zahra this year. Two weeks later for our After a hard month of March, and wanted our company to be. Our second ASM/HM inspection we looking forward I have really seen inspection that week was a very were suited up and ready to go. the worst of RLA and now I have strong inspection of our individual seen the best. Everything at RLA kit and personal turnouts. What It was an early wake up after a late isn’t bad, it’s how you mentally pre- disappointed LCol Smid and CWO night. We began our final prep by pare yourself to do things and face Zahra was our character as dis- going over everything, making our things. Something that’s been with played in our House jobs. After the beds, dusting everything in sight me since my last article is a song inspection Capt Aoki and MWO and soon the Barracks IC yelled, “Shadow of the Day” by Linkin Schafer gave us a massive discus- “ROOM!” and the ASM and HM Park. The lyrics sound in my head sion on how we lacked character by walked in to begin our inspection. daily and say “and the shadow of not helping the group as a whole. I My personal inspection was very the Day, we’ll embrace the world was very disappointed in the way good, and I had a friend and also in grey.” It’s helped me get through our character was displayed and it my House IC to thank for all of the hard times I have seen this year gave me the impression that we and their help in guiding me to get my and through the months I have our ICs needed to stand up for our kit up to standard, helping me with been at RLA. So, what’s next for my next inspection in two weeks dusting and other cubicle jobs. future expectations of myself and Both the ASM and Headmaster RLA? Finishing this year strong. The next two weeks I felt so off. I came around, looked me over and mentioned that tons of hard work tions should be taken. Wear gloves to protect your hands Health & Safety from sharp thorns and chemicals that may be in the soil. The nice spring weather turns our focus to the main- Take frequent breaks from repetitive activities, rake for ten tenance and upgrade of our homes inside and outside. minutes then dig and plant for ten minutes etc. Remem- Gutters need to be cleaned and shingles need to be ex- ber to stand and stretch often and drink plenty of water to amined for any wind damage over the winter. Exercise stay hydrated in the sun. caution when using chemicals to clean your home, make sure labels are legible and never put a different substance Don’t forget your four-legged family members! Cleaning in another chemical container. products, weed control sprays and many flowers can be Make sure you are using the right tool for the job and toxic to cats and dogs. Fleas, ticks, mosquitos can bite using the correct tool in a safe manner. Hanging part way and cause various illnesses. A visit with your Veterinarian off the roof while using a chainsaw is not likely to end well. should be scheduled and preventative measures taken. Ladders should be used in the presence of another person (if possible) and placed on level ground. Congratulations to Capt Bruce Ness and Ms. Melissa Nieu- wold for completing the Health and Safety Certification For many people, the best part of spring is cleaning the courses. garden and planting flowers and vegetables, but precau- Page 4 C Company Report RLA really changed my point of view Sergeant T Ng person like Lau.

I remember when first arrived to After Lau graduat- Robert Land Academy. I thought ed I had no people it would be the worst day of my “watching my back” life and I would never come back, so I started to get but when I look back at the out of into trouble and get shape and dishonest Terrence, I my rank reduced think that’s the best day of my life and the COVID 19 because it changed my life a lot. pandemic hap- pened so it gave me In 2018 I was a fat and dishonest a lot of opportunity person with my leaders and peers, to create trouble which made me not a well round- so I created a lot of ed person. When I first earned my trouble to my com- rank of Cadet I lost the rank on the pany staff. But then summer same day because of my dishonesty, arrived and my parents as you see you can imagine how couldn’t pick me up, so I much of a terrible person I was. had to stay in school for the But as I moved on and made summer. At last I thought progress to my second year, I got it is not going to be enjoy- a bit more success because I be- able but then the staff isn’t came more sociable and slim but I as tough to us and I started was still overweight. I had a lot of to work out with them and success but I still couldn’t get the that’s when I realized how dishonesty out of me so I ended up weak I am, so I started to as recruit again. But as I moved on work out with CSM Scott I felt like lying couldn’t make me every day. At first I had successful so I decided to be honest absolutely no incentive to but the result is no different than do any workout because it lying, so I started to lie again. was too hard for me, but then I started to see changes chance so I see it as an opportunity and I have a lot of peers to help me I guess I wasn’t patient enough on my body like I have more power to improve myself now. to see the result so I went back to to shoot a ball. The happy moment what I used to do. But in my third always passes quickly so the sum- I hope whoever reads the newslet- year I met a very important person mer ended in a blink. ter has a good day and seize the day in my Academy life. His name is because this place really changed Lau. WO Lau taught me how to be When I started my final year at my point of view. When I look back successful in school and helped me Robert Land Academy I thought at my self I really have changed and academically but I didn’t listen to it would be as long and miserable I hope that the honesty, work ethic, him so I missed all the important year because of what I did last year. and leadership that I learned here lessons, but when I look back at the It turns out to be way better than will help me to be successful in moments I can still learn from him I expected. Our Company Com- university and in life. so I’m pretty grateful that I knew a mander Captain Lee has given me a Page 5 Problems in education remarkably consistent Dr. David Harley young to acknowledge that what they know does not Deputy Headmaster determine the full scope and The most famous English philosopher of the 17th limits of human knowledge. century was John Locke (1632-1704) whose published Devoid of that realization works covered a wide range of subjects. However, one they become prisoners of his most widely read books was Some Thoughts of their own limitations. Concerning Education (1693) which remained a classic Correspondingly, it also of progressive education for almost two centuries and requires possessing a certain still has relevance today. It is refreshing to know that degree of deference for some of the problems of raising children and their age as having provided the education have remained remarkably constant over the opportunity to develop this knowledge and wisdom. years. It remains to be seen whether or not these pre-existing Locke wrote that “The most precious of all possessions conditions are sufficiently present today to allow is power over ourselves”. Clearly therefore education children to benefit from the experience of their elders. and upbringing should strive to develop self-discipline. Future progress depends upon this dynamic for if However, this extended beyond personal actions to we cannot build upon the experiences of the present thoughts and opinions. “Few men think”, he wrote generation, the next generation is doomed to repeat “yet all will have opinions. Hence men’s opinions their mistakes or even make worse ones. Societies are superficial and confused.” The answer is to hold can advance, stay the same or go backwards. It is the opinions only in light of demonstrable evidence and process of parenting and teaching that determine the experiences and to regard logic as “the anatomy of outcome. Therefore, education in one form or another thought”. Belief should serve evidence. Evidence is the most important dynamic of ongoing human should not serve belief. existence.

With regard to parenting, as the “only fence against An additional factor that Locke did not mention the world is a thorough knowledge of it” and our was the willingness on the part of adults to impart knowledge cannot exceed our experience, it is clear knowledge from their experience. One can infer from that children are incapable of realistically anticipating Locke’s discussion that this was an assumption that he their future and must rely upon the experience of did not feel necessary to make explicit. After all, adults their parents and teachers to navigate it. However, as parents and teachers were traditionally considered this requires a certain humility on the part of the as leaders. But perhaps we have moved on from that to a position of being just fellow travelers. Experience of staff a great reassurance Bob Wright well as the superstitions of understanding in this Chair of the Board an Irish heritage, prevent unprecedented year in me from counting my the Academy’s history. I find myself very cautious chickens before they That understanding has hatch. We cannot trip as I bring greetings this allowed our Executive with the finish line in morning, or to use a pop Team to make the best culture reference, trying sight, as so many other to “curb my enthusiasm”. institutions are feeling the decisions for the Academy I am so very happy with sting of Covid fatigue. in a fluid and timely everything that staff and manner for the safety of students have been able Our number one all. As Board Chair the to accomplish at Robert priority is always the previous Operational I look forward to my Land Academy in this safety of our students next message which I Experience of our will pen with unfettered COVID year. However, and that has never been Headmaster, Executive as tangible as this year. exuberance as we have my respect for the Team, and many of the increased vigilance of staff I thank each of the crossed the finish line of as the end of the school parents, guardians, and Staff has been a great this school year together year comes into view, as friends of the Academy reassurance to me as I am and enjoy the tremendous for their support and sure it has for each of you. successes. Page 6 The meaning in Getting to Know the Staff Soccer star turned RLA earning growth Elementary teacher through genuine Paula Sinclair effort 2Lt. (Paula) Major Bill Simmons Sinclair is in Academic Officer her first year of teaching at My Grade 12 English Robert Land class and I were studying Academy. She Joseph Conrad’s Heart of is an Alpha Darkness this afternoon. Company One line in particular teacher who stood saliently as wisdom comes to us with for this time of year – the a very athletic time when an individual is background. so near the temporal goal but so far from apparent 2Lt. Sinclair fulfillment. One of the narrators, Marlow, admits “I attended the don’t like work – no man does – but I like what is in University of Buffalo where she played four years of the work, the chance to find yourselves.” Division I women’s soccer. In addition to earning her Bachelor of Science degree in Exercise Science Students stare at the clock and the calendar… in 2001, 2Lt. Sinclair helped lead the Bulls to a Mid- waiting…for time to unyoke them from the American Conference title with 6 goals and 2 helpers. responsibility of their burdens. Their growth, In 2009, she also represented Canada in Australia, achievement, and even meaning, however, does not winning a silver medal at the World Masters Games. emerge from a date, award, or diploma. A student’s 2Lt. Sinclair earned her Masters in Education from true gratification is centered on facing challenges Medaille College in Buffalo, New York. Prior to and working to overcome them or working on a joining Robert Land Academy, she worked in cardiac skill that will have a tangible impact on his life. and pulmonary rehabilitation, sports performance training, and motor vehicle accident rehabilitation. Every night on ESPN or TSN we watch athletes perform remarkable feats, but we have not seen 2Lt. Sinclair made the transition to Robert Land the hours and hours of failure and repeat...failure Academy because she believes in the philosophy and repeat…that they perform in practice until of inspiring children to be resilient in the face of failure becomes successful habit. There is significant adversity. She looks forward to returning to in-class meaning in earning growth through genuine effort; instruction to mentor and motivate her students to using that growth to improve the lives of others is, aspire to their highest potential. perhaps, the greatest reward. When 2Lt. Sinclair is not teaching parts of speech and So, even though the academic year is ending, there parts of the sentence, she enjoys creating amazingly detailed cakes and constructing decks in her backyard is no end to self-discovery. oasis.

Page 7 LCol Fraser Eadie and Robert Land Academy by Adrienne Anderson Jeff Nicklin jumped into Norman- Lieutenant-Colonel Fraser Eadie, dy in the first minutes of D-Day, D.S.O., C.D. had the unusual dis- June 6th, 1944 as the Battalion’s tinction in Canadian military his- Deputy Commanding Officer. tory of being last. He was the last commander of the 1st Canadian Once the 1st Canadian Parachute Parachute Battalion in World War Battalion was launched into battle II. He was the last Honourary the men became fighting infantry. Colonel of the Canadian Airborne Nicklin suffered multiple shrapnel Regiment. wounds on July 23, was transport- ed back to England and decorat- Born in in 1917, Fraser ed for his bravery. Major Fraser Eadie was a natural athlete whose Eadie, who had qualified for the hockey skills brought him the offer Battalion at Ringway early in July, of a contract with the Chicago stepped up to replace Nicklin as Blackhawks. Eadie was friends DCO as the battle waged on. The with another Winnipeg athlete, Jeff Battalion was returned to England Nicklin, who played multiple Grey early that September. Cup-winning seasons for the Win- nipeg Blue Bombers. Both men By late 1944, Jeff Nicklin, now became part of Canada’s militia Lieutenant-Colonel, was recov- Fred Topham, a Battalion medic, when they joined the Royal Win- ered and in full command of the ignored his own serious injury to nipeg Royal Rifles. Eadie began a 1st Canadian Parachute Battalion, carry out the rescue of so many career with the Ford Motor Com- with Major Fraser Eadie as second wounded, under such extremely pany. in command. dangerous conditions, that he was awarded the Victoria Cross. War was declared September 1st, On Christmas Day, 1944, the 1st 1939 when Germany invaded Canadian Parachute Battalion When Nicklin had failed to appear Poland and by early 1942 the two became the only Canadian unit at the designated rendezvous, Fras- men were bound for England with to fight in The Battle of the Bulge. er Eadie assumed command. Soon the Royal Winnipeg Rifles. Bad weather meant planes could promoted, Lieutenant-Colonel not fly, so the Battalion was ferried Eadie led the Battalion to success- Back in Canada, the elite 1st Ca- across to the Ardennes in Belgium. fully complete all further missions nadian Parachute Battalion was The men fought in deep snow and assigned. established in 1942. Initial jump blizzard conditions in the smocks training was done at Fort Benning, and clothing they wore on the June Russia was an ally in World War Georgia, until a parachute training D-Day drop. Frostbite was a sec- II. Even so, British Prime Minis- school was established at Camp ond enemy. The Battalion fought ter Winston Churchill was deter- Shilo, early in 1943. on to the Maas River in Holland mined to stop the Russian Army before returning to England at the from claiming the territory and Major Jeff Nicklin left the Roy- end of February, 1945. the highly coveted sea ports as far al Winnipeg Rifles, returned to west as Denmark. The British 3rd Canada to join the 1st Canadian On March 24, 1945, the Battalion Parachute Brigade was ordered to Parachute Battalion and become became part of , make haste to Wismar on the Bal- one of the founding directors of the largest airborne operation, in tic Sea to stop the Russian advance. parachute training at Camp Shiloh. a single day and location, in mil- British commander, Brigadier itary history. Canadian, British James Hill, DSO, MC, had ‘his The Battalion was dispatched to and American Airborne troops Canadians’ lead the way. “They’ve England in August, 1943, to be were dropped, in daylight, across come the farthest to fight and attached to the 3rd Parachute the Rhine River into Germany. they deserve the honour” he said. Brigade of the British 6th Airborne Tragically, Lieutenant-Colonel The Canadians covered some 480 Division. All Canadians, includ- Jeff Nicklin was killed instantly, kilometres rotating on Royal Scots ing Nicklin, retrained at Royal Air still in his harness, after dropping Greys Regiment tanks, trucks and Force Station Ringway, learning over an enemy machine gun nest on foot. to jump the British way - without into trees. The Battalion suffered reserve chutes. many casualties that day. Corporal Continued on page 9 Page 8 Patronage continued through Eadie’s lifetime Continued from page 8 commander committed totally to the academy, the board and espe- On April 15th they came upon the cially, the boys. devastatingly cruel inhumanity at the Bergen-Belsen concentration Fraser Eadie chaired the board of camp, within hours of its libera- Robert Land Academy for more tion. than 10 years and continued his support and patronage throughout The Battalion arrived in Wismar his lifetime. To the end of their on May 2nd, 1945, just ahead of days, he and many veterans of the the Russians. Soon Fraser Eadie 1st Canadian Parachute Battalion was telling a determined Russian gave talks to the students about Marshal Rokossovsky that his their war experiences and attended army would indeed be stopped by Academy exercises. the Canadians and when doubted, Eadie firmly advised that “my one Fraser Eadie died on August 11, will take your seven”. 2003. It is entirely fitting that today’s students carry out their The war did not end for the Cana- to serve as master of ceremonies parades, drills and exercises on dians on VE Day, May 8th, 1945. for Ford events. the Lieutenant-Colonel G. Fraser They continued to process fleeing Eadie Parade Square. prisoners of war and surrendering Fraser Eadie served as Honourary German soldiers, while holding Colonel of the Canadian Airborne Upon retiring as Headmaster of back the Russians. Finally, the Regiment from 1989 to the dis- Robert Land Academy in 2015, 1st Canadian Parachute Battalion bandment in 1994. He made his Scott Bowman looked back on the was flown back to England, and last parachute jump with the regi- many thousands of graduates who within weeks boarded a train to ment in 1993 at the age of 76. overcame ADHD and other learn- Scotland. Brigadier James Hill was ing and behavioural challenges to at the train station to shake the A friend and colleague of Eadie’s achieve grades that gained them hand of every one of ‘his Canadi- at Ford Canada was William Land acceptance into the university or a n s’. Hawkins. ‘Bill’ Hawkins had a college of their choice. Many have nephew who was beginning to gone on to successful careers in the Once in Scotland, they embarked fulfill a dream of establishing a military. on the Isle de France and sailed for military-style boarding school Pier 21 in Halifax. The Battalion ‘academy’ for boys in Grades 6 to Bowman is very pleased that Rob- was paraded and honoured there, 12 in southern Ontario. The neph- ert Land Academy is now headed and again in Toronto, as the first ew was Scott Bowman, who began by Lieutenant-Colonel (ret’d) Ryan complete Canadian unit to re- to envision the Academy at the age D. Smid, MMM, MB, CD. turn from the war. Following the of 17. Lieutenant-Colonel Smid earned a surrender of Japan on August 15th, B.A. (Honours) in Political Science the Battalion was officially dis- Robert Land Academy, named for and an M.A. in International Trade banded in Ontario in September, an ancestor of both Bill Hawkins from the University of Saskatche- 1945. and Scott Bowman, opened in the wan. He served in the Canadian Welland, Ontario area on Sep- Armed Forces for Post war, Fraser Eadie resumed his tember 11th, 1978. Bowman, the 28 years, culminating in command earlier career with the Ford Motor founder and headmaster, now 27 of the 7th Toronto Regiment. Company and his posts in interna- years of age, looked to his uncle for tional sales took him around the corporate guidance while he dealt Smid is a graduate of the Joint globe. For a time he and his family with the bricks and mortar, the Command and Staff Program, were based in Bermuda. curriculum, the staff and above all, invested in the Order of Military Eadie rose through the ranks and the boys. Merit, was awarded the Medal of retired, after 46 years of pre and Bravery and earned the Canadian post war service, as a Vice Pres- Bill Hawkins knew the Academy Forces Decoration with clasp. He ident of Ford Canada based in required a solid Board of Gover- has served on operational tours in Oakville, Ontario. Former busi- nors and who better to chair this Kosovo, Bosnia, Afghanistan and ness colleagues report he was high- board than his old friend from Lebanon. ly regarded and was the favourite Ford, Fraser Eadie. The war-time Page 9 The First Canadian Parachute Battalion Barman Carozza great defence unit in case of inva- task by the 6th of June. sion by the Germans, as they could This first operation led the First The First Canadian Parachute be deployed throughout Canada Canadian Parachute Battalion’s rep- Battalion was the first airborne on short notice. Although not to utation of never failing to complete infantry battalion of the Canadian defend, the first Parachute Battalion any mission brought onto them. Armed Forces. Formed in early July was established on the first of July The Battalion served at the Battle of 1942, this battalion remained active 942. the Bulge, Operation Varsity, which until the end of the Second World Before being sent to England under was the crossing of the River Rhine War in 1945. After three years of the command of the third Para- and Operation Overlord as men- outstanding service with an incred- chute Brigade of the British Sixth tioned above. ible success rate, the battalion re- Airborne Division, the Battalion The First Canadian Parachute turned to Canada passing through was initially sent to the United Battalion is still recognized today the United Kingdom on the 21st of States where training was under- for their immeasurable help during June, where it was ultimately dis- taken at Fort Benning alongside the the Second World War. The Battal- banded on the 3oth of September fledgling US airborne troops. Once ion’s last commander, Lt. Col Fraser 1945. transferred to the UK, the Battalion Eadie had the parade square at The idea of Canadian parachute trained with the British X-Type Robert Land Academy named for battalion originally came from parachutes as well as being forced him due to the connection to the Colonel Burns. Although at the be- to jump out of a variety of different found of Robert Land Academy Lt. ginning of the Second World War British aircrafts. Col Bowman. many countries including Canada The Battalion’s first mission was Although most of Robert Land were not in favour of airborne forc- during the Battle of Normandy. Academy’s connections to the First es due to their devastating effects On the evening of the 5th of June Canadian Parachute Battalion have their minds were changed once the the Paratroopers were dropped in passed away, we still today learn German fallschirmjägers success Northern France with several ob- about them and their contribution became widely known. They were jectives including seeing the DZ, or to the war. The reason being not also influenced by the English and drop zone, destroying the bridges at only to honour their service and Americans who were themselves Varaville and Dives, and destroying out of respect, but due to the im- creating their own parachute battal- the radio station at Veraville as well. portance of history and the impact ions and regiments. Although the Battalion was widely it has on the world we live in today. Initially Colonel Burns’ idea was dispersed during the jump, they that the paratroopers would be a were successful at completing every Al’s influence is in every facet of RLA Continued from page 1 Academy event, he was the yearbook committee, he his office with mountainous stacks of papers was like was the IT department, the social media department, pulling back the curtain to see the Wizard juggling a the Human Resources department. . . And for those multitude of tasks you were unaware were even hap- who knew Al, they knew he did all of this on a diet of pening. Doritos and Diet Coke. Al was instrumental in designing the Academy the Al’s contribution to and footprint on Robert Land way it looks today with the construction of Landholme Academy continues and will continue to have a pro- and Ritchie Halls and the addition of Ivey Hall. Al was found and positive impact on the families who send most notable as the driving force behind the Scarlet and will send their sons to the Academy in search of Parade – the Academy’s annual fundraiser. He worked better lives. so fastidiously with Patricia Spiller and Janis Tomiak Al’s commitment to the Academy is overshadowed (and so many others) organizing donations, printing only by his commitment to his own family. He is a bid sheets, and creating slide shows that orchestrated proud husband and father. He loves travelling with memorable nights for parents and valuable funding for them and singing the praises of his children’s academic future students. success. Al also served as the Secretary Treasurer to the Board Thank you for 30 years. of Governors, he was the master of ceremonies at every Page 10 Alumni invited to Fall Exercise 2021 Mike Maislin Alumni and Chef Extraordinary Alumni Committee On the closing day of the Fall Ex- Bruce Ness promises he can feed us ercise, all are welcome to join the all. On behalf of Colonel Ryan Smid, Cadets at the Brock Monument for we are pleased to invite all Alumni closing ceremonies followed by an This will be the first Alumni Re- back to the academy to participate Alumni BBQ. union coordinated with RLA and in the Fall Exercise along with other we are truly honored to be a part events. Whether you wish to do the entire of this. This event is a long time march, hike only for the closing day overdue. It will be great to see old Whether you are up for the chal- or just attend the BBQ, all options faces and share experiences with lenge of the Fall X or wish to attend will be made available to you. the Cadets. the Alumni BBQ, all options are available. Thirty Alumni members The event starts on the morning of For those interested in attending will be able to stay over at the acad- Wednesday, October 6th and runs this unique event, please do contact emy during the three-day event if until Friday October 8th. The open [email protected] with the they are participating on the March. BBQ and final 2hr March take place subject heading Fall X. Additional sleeping arrangements on Friday. All are welcome to join can be made by the academy for that last leg of the March and or the We look forward to seeing you Alumni to stay at a local Hotel. BBQ back at the academy. Former there. Your actions can have a direct impact ASM Paul Zahra of clothing they have”. Jared went on to speak I recently donated some about the many men articles of clothing on and women that use the behalf of the Academy facility to get a hot meal, to a local group that the one meal they will get helps clothe and feed the for the day or an article homeless “Start Me Up of clothing for warmth. Niagara”. The gentleman He would see them on that I met with (Jared) a regular basis and then was so thankful for the no longer see them only donation of old sweaters to find out they passed that were no longer in away from exposure to use. CSM Giovenazzo the elements. I couldn’t donated four boxes of old help think that clothing jackets from his Cadet that was going to be dis- next meal will come from munity service hours, do Core that were going to carded could make such or if it will come at all. it because your one act of be discarded. As we were an impact in someone’s We don’t have to search kindness could be what unloading my vehicle, life. I came away with all night for a warm, dry, that person needs to get Jared looked at one of the a good feeling that we safe place to lay our head though their day. Your jackets that was donated were helping people, but at night. actions can have a direct and said to me “this will sad that so many have so impact on someone’s life. make a change in some- little. Gentleman, we are This summer when you You may be the one good one’s life tonight, this so very fortunate to have are at home, put down thing in that person’s life will help get these men a place to sleep, a warm your video game and for that day. Set a goal to and women through a bed and food to nourish volunteer to help out in volunteer a couple hours cold night and may be our bodies. We don’t your local communities. a week. the only warm, dry piece have to worry where our Don’t do it to get com-

Page 11 Outdoor Club Report Helping with youth development a simple joy MWO JT Lewis “Watching the students get excited when they realize the have news Through his more than 33 years skills and can effectively use of working with the 2968 Royal them to do something they never Cadet (RCAC) dreamed of is quite rewarding,” says Corps Captain (Ret’d) Murray Erola Erola, explaining this is one of the came to the realization early that most satisfying aspects of working helping youth develop into young with the cadets. leaders is one of life’s simple joys. Originally the entire school was The 2968 RCAC Corps is the cadet enrolled in the cadets, in 2007 corps located at Robert Land when he was promoted to Captain, Academy in Wellandport, Ontario. Erola changed the format and went Robert Land Academy is a centre forward with about 20 students that helps boys develop into young who were more actively involved in men focusing on citizenship, self- the program. regulation and leadership. Since then, the program has grown After serving with the Regular again capturing the interests of new Force from 1980-1981 and then students to Robert Land Academy. transferring to the 2nd Battalion But no one cared, we all just had a “I believe that the cadet program of the Irish Regiment of Canada good laugh about it, with no cares, adds quality to the academy,: said (reserve force) where he was a we were all getting equally wet. Just Erola, explaining “It’s a way of rifle platoon commander for six watching them, taking it as it came connecting with students who years, in 1988 Erola found himself and adapting to the change.” may not be originally successful employed at Robert Land Academy “Cadets are important, the academically. They seem to find where he currently teaches. program has everything you need immediate success in the cadets There was a cadet program running to develop the youth of Canada,” through tactile learning.” at the academy when Erola arrived says Erola. Erola’s experiences with the but it wasn’t registered and there “The cadet program has standards cadets go beyond the corps at the was no one in charge yet. of conduct, dress, and in academy, and have provided him Within his first year, Erola development,” he noted. “Unlike some good memories and great organized the program, set up a society, the program will not bend stories, like a rainy when he was the training schedule, got the corps and yield to the demands, they have Officer Commanding at Blackdown registered and the program began. to ‘up their game’ and follow the Summer Cadet Training Centre. “Although hesitant to conduct standards that are laid out.” “We conducted a three-week cadet training,” Erola said, “I came “Cadet programs provide a massive expedition, travelling from North to realize that helping to develop a opportunity to develop and learn all Bay to CFB Petawawa, by hiking, natural born youth leader was one kinds of new skills, not only at the mountain biking, and canoeing. of the simple things that I enjoy.” local corps, but, at various training During the trip, I sat back and Erola’s program centres on three centres throughout Canada,” Erola watched the platoon make lunch. important areas: continued. “In the cadets a youth We had just landed the canoes, 1. Winter exercise where will develop pride, self-confidence, got the mountain stoves going, cadets learn to dress properly for self-discipline and all that stuff water boiling, MREs heating, and the climate and practice winter which will have an impact on the cadets were milling about, survival skills; society by them becoming better socializing, telling stories and 2. Navigation and Geocaching, citizens.” waiting for their lunch. A freak in which cadets learn how to Erola points out that cadet rain shower blew overhead (no effectively work with maps, programs are a place where youth lightning or thunder) and it started compass, and GPS; and can learn to belong no matter who to rain, and boy did it come down. 3. Marksmanship which Simple things, right! With nowhere teaches the cadets firearm safety. to go, we stood there and got wet. Continued on page 15 Page 12 Alumni Association Report Help build an Alumni Legacy Project at RLA Chris McLeod donating time and RLA 88-91 materials to this project. We would welcome and will The Alumni Committee has been very busy on a likely need addi- number of initiatives which we will be rolling out over tional monetary the coming weeks and months. This month I would donations but I like to focus on the first of what we hope will be many think it would be Alumni Legacy Projects. We have put together a plan awesome to have and we are working through municipal approvals for a a couple of build replacement roadside sign for the academy. The design weekends where elements were drawn from existing materials used we can come throughout the Academy grounds, stone, rough tim- together, work bers, and green corrugated metal roofing. We wanted hard and make this the sign to be substantial and have a significant pres- build an event. ence as you enter the school and to have the feeling that it may be built on the remains of an old fort. The On the material side, we will need concrete and rebar, vision for the sign itself is to have a heavy black plasma stone and sills, rough timbers, steel & plasma cutting cut steel sign as we felt this would resemble the materi- for the sign, and corrugated metal roofing. als and color of traditional artillery. The sign will have the school coat of arms, name, and address. On the labour/skill side we would be looking for survey/site layout, excavation, brick mason, concrete We have estimated that the total cost for the project if forms, carpentry, and general labour. we had to pay for and contract the construction would require a budget of $25,000.00. So far we have gotten I would like to start to build out a schedule and mate- donations totaling $5,000 from Mike Maislin. I have rial procurement list. If you can donate time, materials had the design and required construction and permit or financial resources I would love to chat with you documents donated. We have also received a donation about this project. Please reach out as no amount of of the lighting and solar panels from one of our alum- time/resource is too small. Many hands make light ni, Dan Messer. We have developed a list of materials work so every little bit helps. and required skills and I am hopeful that we have Alumni that are either skilled or connected that can Hope to hear from you. help us to stretch our donations as far as possible by

Page 13 Where are RLA Alumni Now? The Academy produces profound change Paul Vrana At the Academy I stood before 1983-85 the headmaster, was asked a few questions, and was then escorted Some 39 years ago I was a young about the school by a student NCO, teenager whose outlook was while my parents stayed behind to bleak. It was a story that was all to talk shop with the Headmaster. I familiar: am not quite sure what happened in that half hour but by the time the • Learning disability leads to a tour was over I had absolutely no lack of academic success, interest in going to the Academy • lack of academic success leads and my parents well, they were to disinterest and mediocrity, busy writing a deposit check to • years of mediocrity leads to low hold open an admission spot in self esteem, September. Oh, the Magic! weekend I decided never to go back • low self esteem leads to apathy On September 5th, 1983 I “entered to that life. towards all aspects of life. the land of the living” (GSB) and began the journey that would By the fall of my second year after lot of guidance and hard work, I That was me in a nutshell and radically change my life. I found was promoted the School’s Head despite the best efforts of my my self succeeding in many areas Boy, by June I graduated with a parents and teachers nothing of academy life. Each success 77% average and was proud to changed. I repeated my grade eight was met with praise, sometimes reward and always a new challenge have started many new traditions year in an attempt to catch up, but at the Academy like the precision by grade ten I had a remarkable or responsibility. A great deal of mentoring also took place both drill team. And you remember 53% average, was several credits that lost boy who was incapable of behind and hung out with the cadet to cadet and staff to cadet which helped steer you in the right succeeding academically…. College smokers in the “butt” lounge at Diploma with High Honours, school. direction and increase your chances of success. You don’t see it at the University Degree and later a time because you’re in the thick of Masters Degree in Education with In my grade ten year the Toronto it, but you are beginning to change High Honours, 2 great careers one Star published and article about the into that “other person.” A person in business and one in education. Academy which my father shared that takes pride in themselves, their with me. After reading the article, work, and begins to treat others It was a lot of hard work, nothing “we”, mutually agreed to check with respect. ever came easy, and there were things out and set up an interview. many failures to learn from. This may seem backward to you I did not realize how profound the During these times I found but when I use the word “we” it change was until I went home on “Labour” to be one of my greatest was actually me wanting to go as I leave that November. I went to allies. What I lacked in smarts was an Air Cadet and had enjoyed visit my old friends and distinctly and talent was made up through my time in Cadets, while both remember being upset by the way sheer effort, determination, and my parents had been to boarding they treated me and talked down to a lot of work. Even to this day school and did not have positive me. They were not treating me any when I am confronted with an experiences. I can still hear my different then they had before, the “insurmountable” challenge, I mom on the drive down talking difference was that I had changed remember that first fall exercise, about how far away it was and how and could now see ever so clearly ruck sack digging into my shoulder alone I would be……. how they perceived me, and I did blades, blisters on the heal, calves not like it one bit. It was on that Continued on page 15 Page 14 Appreciation for life’s successes after RLA Continued from page 14 burning, with five hundred meters of “hydro hill” ahead, and that insurmountable challenge well, I got this. Success is rarely an individual endeavour and the village that is Robert Land Academy has raised may fine children. To the incredibly special staff at the academy, thank you for getting me my life back and doing the same for so many others. To Col. Scott Bowman the founder of the Academy, thank you for seeing in me the potential and believing in me when others did not. To Academy Sargent Major Andy Anderson, thank you for your lessons in leadership and integrity, they have been invaluable to me throughout my life and served me well. Finally on a alumnus or oldest, left as a recruit or NCO, it does not more personal note, to my departed parents, thank you matter. We have all drilled on the same square, ran for sacrificing so much to get me to the academy and laps around it, slept with an awful itchy grey blanket, to keep me there even after dad had lost his job. have some really great stories to share and we all made So where am I now? I am married 32 years to my our socks smile. academy days sweetheart Dineen, recently retired, have three wonderful children, three grandchildren (and We are a family, and we welcome you. counting) and am looking forward to my daughter’s nuptials this summer. So spread the word and get hooked up to the mailing list by contacting Chris at [email protected]. Thank you to L Col. Smid for creating an alumni committee and giving the old boys the opportunity to connect and give back. So, whether you are our newest A strong sense of volunteering and giving back people who influence their lives and help develop their Continued from page 12 temperament and personalities.” they are. “In cadets, they will be accepted for who they are, so if “Adults should take a step back from their busy lives they feel isolated and alone, this program will accept and realize the potential to make a great contribution them. If they feel inferior and little, the program will to society by teaching, training, and mentoring the build a much better opinion about themselves. If they youth of Canada,” he says. “Society would be nicer, come from a poor family or a non-caring family, cadets gentler, and more caring if adults show the youth to be can embrace them and make them feel wanted, and it like this.” doesn’t cost a cent,” he said. In September of 2020, Captain Murray Erola retired But cadet programs can’t exist without the support of from the Royal Canadian Army Cadets, stepping aside adults in the community. for Capt. John Milliken to become the new officer commanding of the corps. Erola still volunteers with “For me it’s always been about a strong sense of the cadets showing no signs of slowing down, bringing volunteering and giving back,” said Erola. “The youth a whole lifetime of positive experience to share with of Canada is important, far more than most adults the cadets. seem to think. They will be successful or not due to the Page 15 Family Guild Report Your opportunity to experience skydiving Kristina Barybina Family Guild

“Life is either a daring adventure or nothing” - Helen Keller

In the middle of the global pan- demic, our family made a difficult decision to send our son, K.B., to Robert Land Academy where he started grade 7 in September 2020. Enrolling him was difficult for sev- eral reasons: the fact that our son would live far away from home; the fact that we would be entrusting our child’s health and well-being to will go skydiving with his father, anything else! Skydiving has the staff at RLA and the academy’s very which would make him a third gen- power to bring a person into “here strict and highly disciplined mili- eration skydiver in our family. K.B.’s and now” because while a jumper tary theme. But in about a month’s grandfather, grandmother, father is diving towards Mother Earth, time since the start of the school and myself, his mother, all collec- nothing else matters. This highly year, it became clear that our deci- tively have thousands of skydives. liberating and spiritual feeling has sion was the right one. been known to make people recon- Ah, Adventures! Why would an sider their life priorities. As the year is progressing, we are academic establishment consider witnessing K. B. transforming from adventures so important? Only ad- RLA has a long-standing tradition an immature boy into a young man ventures have the power to expand allowing boys a chance to expe- through massive leaps of personal and broaden our minds, allowing rience skydiving, this amazing growth, accomplishment and devel- us to learn and experience life by adrenaline-pumping sport. Similar opment. From day one, the things getting out of our comfort zone, to how RLA’s students get to expe- to which kids are so accustomed while also building strong connec- rience skydiving, this year we are to having at home, disappeared tions and overcoming fears. The going to do even better! As a part from our boy’s life: no more gad- value of adventure in human life of RLA’s fund-raising campaign, gets, phones, social media or video and especially in a young man’s life one of you can experience skydiv- games. Instead, within a highly is immeasurable. ing and help the school at the same structured environment our son is time. The Family Guild is undertak- now busy with learning, responsi- Most “Bucket Lists” include adven- ing an auction to help the Academy bilities, sports and adventures. tures and extraordinary experienc- build it’s Capital Improvements es as something to accomplish in Fund and the Founder’s Scholarship At RLA, adventure training is a one’s life. Often on a bucket list is Fund. In this auction there are a va- mandatory activity along with SKYDIVING. Skydiving is not only riety of donated gifts to bid on and many other extra-curricular sports an adrenaline sport, it is a highly sale funds will go directly into the providing a unique opportunity transformative and spiritual experi- Academy’s coffers. This adventure to experience life in extraordinary ence. I know, since I have complet- of a lifetime has been generously ways. This year our son is learning ed 200 jumps myself. The feeling of donated by Skydive Burnaby and to scuba dive, next year he wants to complete freedom, flight, camara- Ryan Jambrich (K.B’s father). Take a be training at RLA’s newly built rap- derie, total focus and breath-tak- chance, skydiving can change your pel tower. One day, I hope our son ing views cannot be compared to life! Page 16