THE ROYAI CANADIAN ORACeBNS >

HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS CHARLES THE PRINCE OF WALES COLONEL IN CHIEF THE ROYAL CANADIAN DRAGOONS 'i

MGen C.J.Addy Col M.W. Appleton Colonel of the Regiment 2005-06 Colonel of the Regiment 2006-07

This year, we are enjoying a double issue of the Springbok. Given the various changes that have occurred since the last Springbok, there is certainly a lot to pass along in a very limited space ... I would first like to thank and congratulateMGen Clive Addy for his outstanding stewardshipof the Dragoon Family as our Colonel. He has been a pillar of strength in this role during the past few years - always present, supportive and wise in his guidance. The Regimental Family is stronger today because of his enthusiasm, dedication and hard work. In particular, the Guild has been set on a path that will serve us all well in years to come. Gen Clive, from all Dragoons everywhere, many thanks - and a hearty well done! You have done your Regiment proud! I would also like to express my thanks and congratulations to LCol Lowell Thomas and RSM Dennis Levesque. What an incredibly challenging- and successful- period of command! Perhaps the best summary is simply to note the 'next steps' for these two fine Dragoons: Mr. Levesque scripting the program to train the next generation of senior NCOs and LCol Thomas, following completion of post-graduate studies in leadership science, being promoted and assigned as the Director of Army Training and Director of Armour. The fact that the Army is calling upon these two professionals to shape our future really does say it all! Although they have been in their curi'ent appointments for almost a year now, I also welcome LCol Steve Cadden and RSM Kevin Lee back to the Regiment as the incoming command team. The challenges they face are immense, resources limited and time constrained - yes, situation normal! We all look forward to your leadership in dealing with the normal (and abnormal) requirements during the coming years. I would also like to point out that we now find our Minister BGen (retired) Gordon O'Connor, CDS Gen Rick Hillier and VCDS LGen Wait Natynczyk - all proud Dragoons - providing the leadership that the CF needs during these difficult times. This is a rare moment in history for Canada - and for Dragoons - where the top three posts are filled by former members of the same Regiment. We congratulate each of these fine gentlemen for their professional achievements, both individually and collectively! However, without a doubt, the biggest change has come on operations. For the first time in many, many years Dragoons are actively engaged in combat - and we have taken casualties. During the past months, we have lost six fine Dragoons in combat: Sgt Gillam, MCpl Stewart, Cpl Mitchell, Tpr Caswell, Tpr Pentland and Tpr Wilson. As I met each of their families, I did so both with great sadness for their loss and with great pride for their bravery and courage under fire. All Dragoons should be proud of the manner in which they served their nation and fought their enemy. They were fine soldiers - each one of them. We shall remember them! I also send my very best wishes to those who were wounded in action, or who were injured in theatre, for a speedy recovery. I also noted with great pride the manner in which the Regimental Family pulled together in support of those in their time of need. This not only included serving members of the Regiment, but also several Dragoons serving ERE and several members of the RCD Association who attended the ramp ceremonies and/or the funerals across the country. This participation, whether in Ontario, in Newfoundland or in New Brunswick was a tremendous support to the families of these fine men. I thank those who came forth and provided their support - this is truly what a Regimental Family is all about! We now look forward to the challenges of the coming year. These challenges will come from a wide variety of sources: the mission in Afghanistan, missions elsewhere, operational training and support requirements in garrison, and support to the Regimental Family wherever it may be. One thing I can state with certainty is that these challenges will be met in true Dragoon fashion - with excellence. It is, indeed, a fine day to be a Dragoon! The years 2005-2007 will be remembered for the contributions that the members of our Regiment have made to Regimental history. We have deployed a Task Force Headquarters to Afghanistan on Op ATHENA ROTO 4/OP ARCHER ROTO 0, and have deployed three reconnaissance squadrons and numerous individual augmentees to other units in this theatre of war. Our soldiers have seen combat, have performed the core tasks of armoured reconnaissance to an exceptionally high level, and have taken casualties on the battlefield, both killed and wounded. Throughout it all, Dragoons have maintained a professional attitude and compassionate outlook which has allowed for continued success. Regimentally, there are Dragoons serving at every rank level in the military, from trooper to four star general, with a former Dragoon as Minister of National Defence to boot. The Regiment is very proud of the success of its members, and they continue to do us proud. We look forward to receiving Leopard 2 tanks back in Petawawa in the near future, and our initial steps in standing up C Squadron in Gagetown have shown that the future remains bright in the Armour Corps. With the quality of crewman which we continue to see in Petawawa, the future is bright indeed. Our Regiment is in fine shape, with solid leadership at all rank levels and a Regimental family which has shown its commitment to looking after its own. Our role remains the same - to train to fight and win wars on behalf of our nation - and the past two years have shown that we are fulfilling this role. Bold and Swift!

LCol L.E. Thomas LCol S.M. Cadden Commanding Officer 2004-06 Commanding Officer 2006-07

3 This past year has been particularly challenging for all Dragoons. With the deployment of A and B Squadrons into Afghanistan and the number of casualties not seen by this Regiment since World War II, it has been a tough up hill fight. The loss of Sgt Gillam, Cpl Mitchell and Tpr Wilson of A Squadron followed by the loss of MCpl Stewart, Tpr Pentland and Tpr Caswell of B Squadron were deeply felt. Their names as with the names of thousands of other Canadians will be cast in stone forever so we will never forget their sacrifice. It has absolutely astounded me to see the resilience of our soldiers, who have had to stop and bury their friends and then carry on. We have also seen a number of wounded return from theatre. Seeing them overcome their injuries, working tirelessly to regain their strength and return to duty has been amazing. Their courage, commitment and dedication have been inspiring to all. This year has also proven that once again Dragoons will be driving, gunning, crewing, and commanding main battle tanks on foreign soil. The recent purchase of the Leopard 2 has put new life into the Corps and Regiment; all our former tankers are brushing up their old skills waiting for their chance to get back into the hatch. We have seen an number of soldiers top career courses both locally and nationally, as well Sgt Tingley currently posted to CFLRS St Jean, awarded the MID for his outstanding work in Afghanistan. The accomplishments of our soldiers have been many, and once again Dragoons have proven their metal. As we move into 2008 our 125'^ anniversary, there will be more than enough to keep us busy. A Squadron's tank troop deployed in Afghanistan on Leopard 2's, D Squadron training for Afghanistan, collective and individual training, parading on Parliament Hill and the Regimental Ball in Hull in June, just to name a few. As with many busy years in the past and with many busy years ahead of us, the one thing I am sure of, is that it is always a great day to be a Dragoon.

CWO J.D.J. Levesque CWO K.M. Lee Regimental Sergeant Major 2003-06 Regimental Sergeant Major 2006-07 loMc 0^ fi/MtMU

Colonel ofthe Regiment's Address 1 Commanding OfOcer's Address 3 Regimental Sergeant-Major's Address 4 Regimental Headquarters 6 Headquarters Squadron 8 A Squadron 15 B Squadron 2005-2006 24 In Memoriam 26 Remembrance Day 2006 at the Corporal Ogilvie Memorial 29 B Squadron 30 D Squadron 34 RCD Officers and SrNCOs of 2005-2007 37 The Regimental Association 40 Regimental Fall Training Campaign 42 Change of Command 2006 46 Strategic Advisory Team - Afghanistan 49 Men's Christmas Dinner 50 Regimental Sports 53 The Regimental Canteen and Kit Shop 56 RCD 125*** Anniversary events Back Cover

Visit our website at www.dragoons.ca "If Ops and Training is the brain then Field Troop is the muscle."

As another training cycle comes to a close. Field Troop has been very busy executing the directives of the brain. In June 2005 RHQ carried on with the second instalment of Exercise Virtual Bear. As with the first instalment, this was a tactical exercise without troops. Its main focus was on the Regiment's electronic warfare skills, much the same as Virtual Bear I but taking it one step further. With a lot of hard work success was the name of the game, bringing the week long Exercise to a close. Concun-ent with Virtual Bear II the regiment had a Primary Qualification Course (PFC) cycle running, which saw many members of the regiment qualified on all aspects of the Coyote. The cycle also included driver courses on the Bison, LAV III and LUVW. This gave RHQ Field Troop personnel a chance to get qualified on the LUVW, which is one of our newer vehicles to the regiment. D Squadron was the primary focus of the regiment (being that they were next to launch out the door) and as such RHQ members were ready to provide support for their work-up training for Roto 4 Op Athena. In mid-June, RHQ supported Exercise Able Bear II and Athena Bear III. This was a ten-day event and encompassed many of the real aspects of what was to come on their next deployment. With a busy spring behind us, came a much deserved summer leave which took up most of July. Once August hit, some members of Field Troop deployed with Op Athena Roto 4, while others supported the transition of troops into theatre. Once things slowed down a little with the last of the troops deploying to theatre. Field Troop kicked it up a notch and conducted MLOC training in September. This gave the opportunity for newly qualified PLQ personnel to practice their instructional techniques through various weapons, fieldcraft and navigation classes. It was also an opportunity for the Field Troop to develop the younger soldiers that are not PLQ qualified in teaching classes with a mentor guiding and watching over them. After a successful MLOC cycle, the regiment ran a 25mm Basic Gunners course that saw a few Field Troop members gaining this most vital skill. Upon completion of this course, the regiment put together an outstanding Gun Camp where both new and seasoned gunners had the opportunity to hone their deadly trade. With a lot of rounds down range and no targets left standing, the regiment thrust itself into Exercise Walking Dragoon, which is a level IV Ex in the Petawawa area. This five day Exercise was a preamble for a much more intense level five exercise in Meaford - Charging Dragoon! Field Troop Once again, kicked it up a notch in a plethora of tasks all from driving key players to augmenting various cells and organizations. At the beginning of November, Field Troop geared up for Leliefontein week, which had them driving-the-body during parade practice and other activities. Wearing the middle to end of the month Field troop was out again in force supporting and participating in level IV and V training with the rest of the regiment, as well as executing successful training for our fellow Armoured Reservists. Dynamic Springbok was a three- day exercise that focused on training their Headquarters element. With the completion of a very successful summer and fall, it was time for a well- deserved break for the holidays. However, before that was to commence Field Troop carried on with post Exercise drills and then into the silly season activities. Christmas is a very festive time of year, and like always Field Troop was in a very festive mood, participating and spectating in the annual hockey tournament and Men's Christmas dinner. After all the regimental pride and festivities. Field Troop along with the rest of the regiment went on Christmas holidays. After a relaxing break. Field Troop kicked off the New Year with winter warfare preparations and lectures. Not to waste any good training opportunities. Field Troop once again developed and mentored their younger soldiers by giving them the chance to teach lectures to their peers. During the 16^^ to the 20^^ ofJanuary, Field Troop launched into the training area to conduct the practical portion of their winter warfare. After a few chills and a lot of thrills, winter warfare was completed for another year and Field Troop looked forward to the rest of the year's training. With the Regiment being the leader for the Army's Digitization, and RHQ the regiment's forerunner. Field Troop was yet again at the forefront of this evolution and launched into Exercise Digital Dragoon level V. This saw many of the newly implemented digital innovations working for the first time, as well as more seasoned innovations working more fluidly and with fewer hiccups. At the end of January and into February, Field Troop supported Exercise Virtual Bear I, which was deemed a huge success, thus prompting Field Troop to support the Regimental MAY and Exercise Virtual Bear II. This training cycle was brought to a close with another Gunners course and the culmination of Brigade sports in Exercise Olympian Bear. Field Troop had a very busy and rewarding year that they muscled through with the determination and fortitude of what a Royal Canadian Dragoon is made of. Headquarters Squadron stepped up to the plate yet again this year as the backbone of support to the Regiment. This diverse CSS sub-unit of cooks, maintainers, crewman, clerks, and supply techs provided support to the fighting squadrons while taking direction from Regimental Headquarters, all the while conducting our own training. The 06/07 year started off with a rousing game of musical chairs from the top down. Major John Fleet replaced Major John Andrews as OC HQ Sqn while Captain Steve Giberson escaped 2 CMBG HQ to replace Captain Matt Johnson as 2IC. Even the AO was ousted when Captain Trevor Schentag took over from Captain Francis Conliffe. The Sqn leadership shuffle was complete when MWO Mike Brabant took over as SSM, replacing MWO Mike Bezeau who was off to the mysterious world of the NBC Coy in Trenton. By roughly mid June the personnel shuffle was over and everyone was settling into their new positions. Or so we thought... When the TF 1-07 NSE was stood up in August, Major Fleet was whisked away to become an OC with the NSE leaving the position of OC HQ Sqn up for grabs. It wasn't long before Capt Giberson had his coffee mug (and feet) firmly planted on the OC's desk as Acting OC HQ Sqn. Captain Brian Lepack was moved up from his comfy hole in the wall as the Maint O to take over as 2IC HQ, leaving the unruly maintainers unsupervised. The only person that dodged assuming an unfamiliar position was the leader of the sock counters, our QM Capt Ralph Akerstream. In the fail a new Tpt O, Lt Peilzsche, arrived on scene as Captain Sean Curley joined TF 1-07 as the ISTAR CC. With the Sqn leadership finally in place, at least for the time being, the Sqn kicked into high gear supporting Regimental training and operations highlighted by support to Pembroke family days and 2 CMBG IRONMAN. The remainder of the summer was eaten up by block leave and a redistribution of vehicles by the TQMS. HQ Sqn was so effective this year, even the militia units were requesting our assistance. During Ex SUSTAINING DRAGOON, elements from the Sqn, with Tpt Tp and their MLVW Course leading the way, deployed to snow-covered Edgar to support the GGHG and Lome Scots. MLVW student drivers on highway 400 in a blizzard?! Whose idea was this? The cooks and their flying kitchen put on a delicious spread of food throughout the weekend to the delight of the militia folks...sure beats McDonalds. Perhaps the highlight of the trg event was when the kitchen truck burst into flames while rolling down highway 400. Good thing Cpl Smith had a quick trigger finger on the fire extinguisher. During EX SPRINGBOK SHELTER, the unruly maintainer's reign without supervisionended when 2Lt Erica Speiranjoined the Regt, on loan from 2 Svc Bn, as the acting Maint O to partake in BWW trg. With only four inches of snow on the ground and

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around our night the woods i wasn't particularly

V were plenty ' of hot ' chocolate and Casualties beingbains extracted after the lED strike. tasty hot dogS tO keep us warm, thanks again to our fantastic cooks. The culmination of the training was a vehicle and personnel casualty extraction scenario. Tpt Tp provided the convoy that struck a notional lED and then came under fire from the enemy. After the troop won the firefight and beat back the vicious Figure 11 enemy, the medics rolled in their Bison ambulance to extract the four casualties. Once the casualties were stabilized, maintenance troop was called in to extract the damaged vehicle. The whole event was coordinated through C/S 8 command post. All soldiers enjoyed the scenario, having the chance to put into practice the skills they had acquired throughout the week.

REGIMENTAL TRANSPORT TROOP

Trip tickets, POL, and HAZMAT, oh my! In the wonderful world of Regt Transport every soldier is only a moment away from a last minute tasking, wood run, POL delivery, jaunt to the Ottawa Airport, or some other random GD task. This year certainly was no mm different. Regt Tpt's first major task was to support the 2 CMBG IRONMAN Competition by toting around hundreds of canoes in the back of our HLVWs. In order to escape the daily chaos that swirled around the Regt, HQ Sqn took off to Connaught Ranges to conduct its annual IBTS training. Tpt Tp rolled as many trucks as we could find drivers for and had max participation in C7/C8, 9mm and C9 ranges, gas hut trg, first-aid refresher and of course, the BFT. The check in the box was complete for another year. In between supporting Regt trg and executing the A/OC's "bright ideas", Tpt Tp managed to squeeze in a MLVW, HLVW and spill response course. Sadly there was no FAR course to be had, so Cpl Olliffe was stuck as the only FAR driver in the Regt for another year. Throughout the year, in addition to our regular workload, we were called upon to provide support to various tasks, like PLQ courses, TMST stands for the troops deploying to Afghanistan, supporting Battle Group exercises in Wainwright, and the sombre task of providing transport to the friends and families of our fallen soldiers. Not every moment was one of sadness in Transport as we had many opportunities for excellent and fun-filled training in the New Year. Winter warfare was one such event and provided some of the younger soldiers with a chance to use skills not always in play in transport life. Given the abundance of young inexperienced troopers in Tpt, some were afforded the occasion to perform in unfamiliar leadership roles. Of course, when put to the test, all troops performed admirably under stressful conditions.

MAINTENANCE TROOP

^ Control Office The staff of the ROD Maint Tp Control Office has had a busy year. There have been numerous on-going projects throughout the past year , J including: Corrosion Control, MPVB Refurb and HLVW Life Extension. To "1;^ date the Corrosion Control Program has seen a total of 69 pieces of equipment (Vehicles and Trailers) completed out of a total of 89. The MPVB Refurb is moving along, albeit a little slower due to the amount of prep work and time it takes to complete the work which is done by CORCAN. Next is the HLVW Life Extension; with a total of 16 HLVWs in the Regt to date there are 6 complete and 4 presently in progress. Again these take longer to refurb and are also done at CORCAN. Along with normal day to day ops and trg along with supporting the Regt one can see Maint Tp has had a very busy year.

A Vehicle Maintenance Headquarters Sqn Maint was tasked to provide a close support element for D Sqn during Ex THUNDERING BEAR from the 26-30 March. During this exercise the new Bison MRV proved itself to be a valuable asset. It was able to follow the Coyote fleet down treacherous roads and provide recovery support. The main The new Bison MRV. Cooks Everyone's favorite section in HQ Sqn was the busiest of all this year. Whether they were preparing steaks for a hundredwas^the in theirRegt^, flyingthe kitchenForce or layingor even out desertsthe^Bde forthat a

1 summer changeof command parades, CAX training. EAGER cooksBEARwereand theso goodIronmanthatCompetition.even the TaskIn Force got their claws into them to help feed the troops during Ex MAPLE GUARDIAN. In return, a couple cooks got picked up to deploy to Afghanistan with TF 1-07. Perhaps the most enjoyable task for the cooks throughout the year was putting on eight different CO's steak and egg breakfasts for returning members of A Sqn and TF 3-06. It was a hearty welcome back for our returning Dragoons and gave everyone the chance to trade war stories and reconnect with friends. No matter what the task or training, WO Laverdure and Sgt Hepditch's crew of gourmet chefs always took a no holds barred approach to providing the finest food for their fellow Dragoons. It never ceased to amaze the Sqn what kind of scrumptious meals could be prepared in the back of a truck.

TQ Shop Ah, the mysterious world of the TQ Shop. Nobody really knows what goes on inside building C-50, unless of course you're the TQ or part of his small staff, but they always seem busy. This year the TQ did a lot of house cleaning to make kit checks and vehicle transfers more efficient. All A fleet vehicles were 100% kit checked to ensure that Coyote's being moved between Sqns or sent as replacements overseas were not missing anything. In addition, all surveillance equipment was recalled to the TQ Shop for inspection and cataloging. All N/S kit was sent off for repairs and the serviceable kit stayed under control of the TQMS and issued when required. As well, the nasty process of conducting a SNAG was streamlined to make it less of a headache for all involved. Even with his shop stacked to the ceiling with serialized kit, surveillance equipment and spare vehicles, MWO Chouinard managed to find floor space for the Regimental Dojo. All sections of HQ Sqn took advantage of this unique facility, conducting CQC, basic self defence and handcuffing classes. During Sqn PT sessions, all soldiers jumped at the chance to beat on the OC or slap handcuffs on the SSM. SUMMARY

As the year wound down with a well-deserved March break and maintenance week, we had the opportunity to remember those who had been promoted, be jealous of Cpl Whitehead for getting to play with some NHL greats and say goodbye to Tpr Asmar who moved back to Montreal to pursue his DJ dreams. The spring saw yet another leadership shuffle as MWO Brabant headed off to Cyprus to be camp Sergeant Major and the SQ, WO Mike Brown assumed the role of SSM. In HQ Sqn it seems you can't be the SSM unless your first name is Mike. Upon the return of TF 3-06, Major Christian Lillington took over as OC HQ and Capt Giberson returned to huddle over the 2IC HQ laptop. Capt Lepack rode off into the sunset on his new motorcycle to resume Maint O duties. To round out the downward spiral to APS, Lt Peitzsche was designated as the TF 3-08 Tank Tp Ldr for the incoming Leopard 2s and MWO Brabant finally threw in the towel to retire in Sudbury...how many days left SSM?

Here's looking forward to another year of last minute taskings and flexible soldiering!

14 Skills and Drills: C/S 62 Takes on Ex MAPLE GUARDIAN

On April 23^'^the thirty-two Dragoons from call sign(C/S) 62 deployed to CMTC Wainwrlght as a part of ISTAR Sqn. The soldiers were there to participate in the month long Exercise MAPLE GUARDIAN, the validation exercise for Task force 3-06, which is set to deploy to Kandahar, Afghanistan in August. CMTC Wainwright had done a lot of work preparing for the arrival of the Task Force. It placed a special emphasis on making the training look and feel as close to the real situation overseas by replicating the daily living conditions and the threats that the deployed Canadian troops are experiencing. CMTC also built an Area of Operations by erecting sea can towns with shops, houses, and gathering areas. They were given names such as Nakahoney, Spin Boldak, and Curgen. A map of Kandahar was superimposed onto Wainwright training area maps. Within two hours of arriving at FOB (Forward Operating Base) Main, the Troop was tasked and left the camp to do over watch and security of designated routes, as well as convoy escorts. This brought new meaning to hit the ground running, and it set the tempo of the exercise. After those first tasks were completed, C/S 62 was pulled back into camp to get orders, re- supply, and re-kit its Coyotes to prepare for its next mission. As fast as the Troop amved, it was out again, supporting different Companies with their live fires, doing area recces, conducting live ammo convoy escorts with the NSE (National Support Element) to re-supply the live fires. On one occasion. Alpha Patrol provided security for FOB Martello by setting up its mast. Late one night, Tpr Chapman and Tpr Villeneuve, using the Thermal Camera, a part of the Coyote's surveillance system, observed and tracked insurgents who were trying to infiltrate the small outpost. Taking away the insurgents' element of surprise, they were able to give the Bravo Company soldiers over an hour's worth of early warning. Bravo Company was then able to prepare thoroughly to repel the attack. MCpl Briggs also assisted the infantry sections during the assault by giving friendly forces the number of insurgents, as well as grid locations of the attackers. Throughout the exercise, Charlie Patrol showed strong commitment and proficiency in setting up its covert CP's (Observation Posts). As a result, it was never compromised by enemy forces. It was able to maintain a strong defensive posture for extended periods. One such OP was so well hidden that CMTC Observer Controllers, even when given a grid location of the Patrol, could not find their actual position. Echo Patrol stayed vigilant throughout the exercise. Once, while observing an NAI (Named Area of Interest), Cpl Schroeder and Cpl White observed a vehicle that had stopped along the side of a main route. Two persons dismounted from the truck and placed a suspicious device by the road. Realizing the possibility of this being an lED (Improvised Explosive Device) and the inherent danger of such a device being by the road, the two Corporals exercised Patrol SOP's (Standard Operating Procedures) and sent a report on the incident as well as a description of the device to higher. They also requested Engineer assets to destroy the device. After a short period of time. Engineer C/Ss responded and quickly cordoned off the area. The device was eventually blown in place. For the soldiers of Tango Patrol, keeping up to the responsibilities of being the Troop Leaders Patrol proved to be very challenging. They were, however, given opportunities not always offered to Armoured soldiers. All members of the Patrol were given a familiarisation shoot on the Sniper platoon's silenced .50 calibre sniper rifle. Cpls Trubela and Gilson also did a live call for fire with the Will, the RCHA's new artillery gun. Cpl Gilson, using only a map and binoculars to acquire his target, was able to get a one round correction, fire for effect. The final push of the exercise saw the Troop, as well as the ISTAR Sqn, out in mounted and dismounted OP's. Using the skills and experience of all soldiers, the Sqn was able to set up and maintain observation of an area almost 32 kms wide. Nothing was able to penetrate the web of observation and technology, as all individuals and vehicles in towns and along all routes were tracked and reported. In the end, the Ex MAPLE GUARDIAN proved a success. CMTC Wainwright gave all the soldiers of C/S 62 the opportunity to sharpen and improve both their soldier and patrol skills. More importantly, however, the exercise brought the Troop's esprit de corps and cohesion to much higher. This, matched with its newly acquired skills, will keep the C/S 62 strong as it prepares to head to Afghanistan.

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16 The tour began in early August with soldiers from the Troop and Squadron Headquarters flying in on separate chalks. Once it was all on the ground, it began learning the ropes from the outgoing 12RBC Troop. TheTroop accompanied them on numerous convoy escorts in orderto get familiar with the area, and listened closelyas they shared their experiences in casual conversations. When it came time for them to leave, the Sqn was ready to take the reins, and within days it was conducting its own convoy escorts and standing by as the Battle Group Immediate Reaction Force. In late August, just prior to Op MEDUSA, the Squadron CP was established in KAF and the Troop was re-tasked to go secure Forward Operating Base (FOB) Spin Boldak. The FOB itself was a converted French Foreign Legion fort and had all the amenities a soldier could want. There was fresh food, a gym for Tpr Cory Antonello to work out at, and a bail hockey courtwhere Tpr Mike Norquay could school his peers. Unfortunately, the Troop's time there was short lived, and we were recalled to the Kandahar areato become the BG reserve for Op MEDUSA. The operation began with a bang as the Squadron was immediately called to secure a plane crash, which occurred on 2 September. With Recce Platoon initially leading, the Sqn weaved through the unfamiliar Afghan countryside, trying hard to reach the crash site. To aid its movement, MCpl Jason Fraser also spoke directly to an American Apache Helicopter, which hovered above the vehicles that led the column through the maze of mud huts and fields. Eventually, the Squadron reached the crash site and established a secure perimeter. Then, for the next 24hrs, it aided the recovery teams with unpleasant task of cleaning up the site. Following the planecrash site security, 62A Patrol was involved in the unfortunate incidences of 3 and 4 September at Battle Position (BP) 302. Commanded by WO Jim Hebert and MCpl Dale Briggs, the members of the Patrol did an outstanding job on both occasions. More specifically, during the friendly fire incident, WO Hebert assisted in commanding the Casualty Collection Point; MCpl Briggs served as a relay station for information on the wounded; Cpl DamianLangdon (Tactical Casualty Care Course "TCCC" qualified) gave emergency first aidto the wounded; andCpl Sean Chapman manned the radio, passing on all information from the CCP over the radio and coordinating medical evacuation with the helicopters. The remainder of the Patrol assisted in moving the wounded and even used theirsleeping equipment to maximize the comfort of the wounded. Theremainder of the Troop co-located itselfwith theSquadron, who controlled BP303. For the majority of its time there, it watched asISAFs military might rained down on the enemy controlled area across the river. The soldiers looked on as fighterjets dropped bombs, artillery guns engaged targets, and Apache attack helicopters patrolled the ,v skies above the hostile • ' . area. The order was them "'"7 - given to cross the I ^ Arghandab river a ^ *-^1^ treacherous piece of land, _ that divided the north and

- * I I south to'link up with A ; y, • forces that would be f "Vjfc.'-'3)^ pushing north. 62 was • scattered about the battle V positions in the south, the ^ ' I last remaining component ~~ ; i available to do the I MCdI Weir with his net rock. 1 crossing. was the SHQ. Leadt iiby Maj:» • Lussier andhis SSM Steve Lehman along with numerous other attachments they forged acroos the river bed in their LAVIII and Coyote driven by Cpl Mark Kovolkovski and Tpr Mark Wilson. The Bison CP commandedby Capt Greg White and WO Bud Guthrie however had to remain in place in the battle positions, much to their chagrin. Once across the river the two elements from this seemingly small Squadron were able to achieve the Battle Group aim, to forge a lane from the north to the south and divide the Taliban and send them running. The Squadron eventually pushed north to Patrol Base Wilson (PBW), another FOB, once the area was cleared of the main Taliban force. The Squadron's main task for this particular phase of the operation was to secure the area wide area south of PBW through presence patrolling and maintaining observation on the key routes in the area. It began by establishing its newCP in PBW, the thenTrooplaunched into presence patrolling operations with its infantry brothers, Recce Platoon. In small combined teams, it pushedout, tracking the routes in the area and observing local activity on a 24hr basis. On occasion, it also deployed sensors to maintain observation on specific areas. Once again, elements of the Troop were involved in a number of extreme situations. On 18 Sept, a suicide bomber detonated himself in the middle of a PPCLI dismounted patrol, sadly killing 4 soldiers. Within minutes of the explosion. Recce PI and 62C Patrol, commanded by Sgt Theriault and MCpl "Fras" Fraser, were on the scene providing outer-cordon security. Cpl Wesley Clark, a Gunner and TCCC qualified soldier, also rushed on to the scene to assist the medics with the wounded. Then, not even a week later, MCpl Fraser and his crew struck a mine while moving down a road. Thankfully, nobody was seriously injured, and as Fras put it in an interview later in the tour, 'Tve been hit harder in hockey". In late September, 62A was once again detached from the Squadron and pushed to an Infantry Company at a new FOB. As for the rest of Sqn, it was pushed two additional Infantry Platoons by the Battle Group to help establish its observation screen along a main route in the area and hold the ground. Things appeared stable in the area until 03 Get when 62 Patrol, commanded by Lt Forsyth and Sgt Craig Gillam, 62C Patrol, the Squadron patrol base (commanded by Maj Lussier), and 21 Platoon (from B Company, 1 RCR) were attacked by Taliban insurgents. Sadly, the attack claimed the lives of Sgt Craig Gillam and Cpl Robert Mitchell, two outstanding members of the Troop and close friends to all its soldiers. Tpr Jeff Hunter, Tpr Matt O'Meara, Cpl Greg Gilson, Cpl Mike Trubela, and Lt Forsyth were also wounded in the attack. As a result, the Sqn complete was soon deployed back to KAF to attend the ramp ceremony, and it then returned to PBW to continue operations. Unfortunately, within days, the Squadron was once again subjected to grieving the loss of a soldier when Tpr Mark Wilson was killed by an lED on 07 Oct. Following the ramp ceremony, the Squadron was redeployed to the newly developed FOB where 62A was already located. Most of October and November was spent building up Ght^r^^^hi^^^^the defenses ofFOB Sperwan I

daily, and over time, results could , . - be seen as they replaced their ^ canvas-covered holes with - ^ T-* fortified bunkers that had shelves ; and sturdy (and protective) roofs. *; - - '' -., Apart from maintaininga defensive posture, the Squadron pushed i Patrols into the area to support other Vehicle Position at FOB Sperwan Ghar. Coalition forces with Village Medical Outreaches (VMO), recovery operations, and outer cordon security operations. For most of November, it also worked for the U.S. Special Forces (SF), which proved to be an experience in itself. As direct support for its lighter forces. Patrols from the Squadron were often pushed out as fire support for SF teams in contact. In the space of 27 days, the Squadron's elements were involved in 26 engagements with enemy forces. Once the situation in the area stabilized, the routine in the FOB continued until the end of December, when the Sqn was deployed to partake in another big operation. This new operation. Op BAAZTZUKA, saw the Troopand Sections from Recce Platoon splitinto large Patrols, each of which conducted presence patrols in a new area. I I While on these

...

' ^ when the Patrols would stop to hand

gifts, it would often get \'f'^ swarmed by groups of

The Squadron on the move prior to Op BAAZ TZUKA. children. Luckily, the Troop had Cpl Fraser Watt, who would expertly grab the attention of the children and entertain them until it was time to leave. After close to a week of patrolling, the Squadron HQ and Troop becamethe heart of newly formed Combat Team. Commanded by Maj Lussier, it also included a Tank Troop, an Infantry Platoon, an Engineer Troop (-), and a FOO. Once together and mobile, the ISTAR Combat Team moved into the area the Troop had been patrolling and established itselfon the most dominating high feature in the area, Ghunday Ghar. It remained on the windy feature as a defensive force for the majority of the January. The soldiers lived in holes covered by canvas (unfortunately, we could not make the place a home) and some even mastered the art of hill bowling, a sport developed by the 62F (a.k.a the Misfits) crew: MCpl Keith Skinner, Cpl Matt Landry, Cpl Sebastien Berube, and Tpr Owen Polan. As for Squadron's Recce Platoon and the Snipers, they were pushed back to the Battle Group near the beginning of the operation to conduct dismounted patrols into the areas outside Coalition strongholds. Throughout January, they performed superbly, but were once again subject to grief when sniperMCpl Jodie Mitic stepped on an anti personnel mine and seriously wounded his legs, which were later amputated below the knees. Once the operations in the area surrounding Ghunday Ghar were complete, the Squadron was reformed and deployed to KAF for a refit of its vehicles and equipment. Following this, it returned to FOB Sperwan Ghar, where it continued conducting its defensive routine, awaiting the arrival of the next rotation into Afghanistan. For most of the soldiers, the days became slow and enjoyable. They continue to do their duty shifts, yet now had a bit more time to themselves, a welcomed change from the high tempo they have experienced throughout the tour. Then, in early February, B Squadron began arriving in theatre. Without delay, the Squadron kicked into Relief in Place activities and quickly familiarized its comrades with the area through road moves and on site briefings. Once happy with the handover, the Squadron returned to KAF, where it anxiously awaited the flights out of Afghanistan. First to leave was the Troop, followed by SHQ. After leaving theatre, both groups enjoyed a relaxing decompression at a beautiful resort in Cyprus, and then embarked on the final leg of their journey, Cyprus to Canada. Their journey and tour finally ended when, after so long, they were reunited with their families in the Y101 drill hall.

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21 'f

The majority of A Squadron returned to the Regiment in April 2007 after a long and well-deserved post-deployment leave. Its members, all refreshed from the easy yet oddly unfamiliar life at home, all seemed ready to work through the upcoming months until posting season finally arrived in July. However, before starting this, it needed to restructure itself as it had been composed of only an 8 car Troop and a Squadron Headquarters overseas. To add to the mix, all the soldiers that had been tasked out to 2 Field Squadron (Combat Engineers) as LAV III crews or to the 2 Field Ambulance Company as Drivers/Crew Commanders were returning to the Sqn. At first, the re-structuring of the Squadron appeared to be a tough task for its leadership. It had lost a key member, MWO Steven Lehman, who was posted to Meaford early, and was also without its clerk from the tour, Cpl Jennifer Fitzgerald, who was posted to Gagetown. However, despite these significant setbacks, it was able to form three Troops, an SHQ, an SQ shop, and AdminTroop. One factor that may have aided this process was that the Sqn never had to throw vehicles into the equation as it had not received them yet. After A Sqn was reformed, it began working on its two major initiatives: providing assistance to the Regiment by assuming responsibility for numerous small tasks on the base or in the local area; and running an in-house PrimaryLeadership Qualification (PLQ) for deserving members within the Squadron and the Regiment. A Squadron's first major initiative involved conducting Dog & Ponies (D&P), or vehicle showings, at numerous events around the base and the local area. These tasks proved rewarding for the individuals taking part as they were able to talk to spectators about the vehicle, and tell stories about their experiences with it overseas. Some Crew Commanders were even commended on their outstanding presentations. Such was the case with Sgt Dale Briggs, who ran an excellent D for the 2 Sv Bn. Besides conducting D&Ps, the members of the Sqn who were not on the PLQ also enjoyed being at the forefront of Army clothing improvements by taking part in a camouflage trial that took place near the end of May. Under the leadership of Sgt Darren Hermiston, a section size group of soldiers went out into the Petawawa Training Area and assisted researches from Ottawa with determining what new uniforms and kit would be best for today's Army. Looking ahead, the A Squadron will be a big part of numerous large events across the province. In June, it will be sending a crew and vehicle, commanded by MCpl Peter Gland, to the Land Forces Central Area Change of Command to take part in the parade and to hold a D&P. Later in the month, MCpl Gordon Fage, Tpr Paul Dudka, and Tpr Nathan Green, along with 9 other Dragoons, will be participating in the widely known St. Thomas Wings and Wheels Air show. They will be participating in the Scarlet guard, and will also run a D&P for the show's many spectators. The PLQ course began shortly after the return to the Regiment. Mod's 1 through 5 of this course was being run at the unit level. Students with as little as 2 years in the Regiment along with some of the support trade personnel were ready to begin... or so we thought! On day one of the course we were brought to the reality of what it is like to be on a career cour.se, and of course the basic soldier skills like, marching and uniformity. We started off with Mod 2, Ranges. All students were trained on 4 areas of an ARSO, Assistant Range Safety Officer. They included Butts, Ammo, Background and, Firing Point. Asa Firing Point NCO you need to supervise andcorrect any faults or safety issues. This went smooth, as most of the students have experience with ranges and weapons but, the training gods were nice to us by making itrain for the majority of the days! Next onthe block was Mod 3,Drill. This would prove tobethe most "interesting" part of the course. All students have to teach and instruct a weapons drill class to their section. For almost all of us this was the first time in front of a group calling out drill commands, especially to our peers! Every group has thatone person that makes you laugh just by looking at them... Well, when he gets in front of you to begin hisclass, you canjust imagine some of thefaces that were made trying to hold off thelaughs but, once we were into the end of the week the mood was much more serious, thanks in part to days filled with 40 minute drill classes back to back to back... and many sore body parts. The weather was, you guessed it, hot and sunny for this portion too! Justa point... Winnie the Pooh paper for your lesson plan isn't as funny tothe instructor asit istothe students! Mod's4 and5 were up next. These areallcomputer-based classes. Mod 5 on general military knowledge and evaluation techniques. Mod 4 onregulations and military trial procedures... which some ofthe students seemed to have more "experience" in than others some how! These classes really put to test the patienceand understanding of most of us because, you need to sit in front of a computer andputit in to action, which is something new to all of us. So now thatthis hasallpassed we only have oneMod leftto do... PT, Physical Training... Which is taught bythe always-smiling PSP staff! I'm sure the whole course will do fine but, aren't exactly excited about a few days of none stop fitness training. We'll have to see how we feel on the last day... All in all, it has been a course that all of us have learnt from and, will likely continue to learn from in the future. Soon, the students from this course will be in a position of leadership andwill look back to this time for answers and use the things wewere taught, to teach others. They future will bring some new adventures to all of us...

23 2005-2006

The past year for B Sqn has been eventful to say the least. It all began with the Squadron's redeployment from Afghanistan. B Squadron was deployed on Op ATHENA ROTO 3 from February to August 2005. Upon redeployment the Squadron took a well- deserved breather from work to visit with friends and family and recount stories from their 6 monthIn midabsence.September the members of ^ ^

The closing weeks of September were fairly low-key for B Squadron with MWO MikeBrabant, SSM B Sqn discusses the events like the 2CMBG Ironman layout of the111''" hide with members of SHQ during ^ ..,, Ex CHARGING DRAGOON. Competition and the summer sports finals I taking much of the spotlight. As October dawned, so did the training period for the Squadron. B Squadron underwent IBTS training to freshen individual soldier skills after a long vacation. Most of these skills were practiced when the new B Squadron deployed to the field for the first time for Ex CHARGING DRAGOON. This exercise allowed the new members of the squadron to undergo vital teambuilding and fostered the cohesion that was needed for the remainder of the year. After a successful Leliefontein celebration, B Squadron again deployed to the field as training support for the 2 CMBG led Ex THUNDERING BEAR. The purpose of this exercise was to allow TP 3-06, fronted by 1 RCR and strengthened by A Squadron, to come together as a battle group (BG) and develop vital SOPs. B Squadron spearheaded the OBUA site and created a challenging and realistic training venue for the BG company groups to undertake. Another successful training activity in the books, it was time for B Squadron to partake in the Regimental "Silly Season" celebrating Christmas and the upcoming block leave period. Immediately after the Christmas leave period, the troops having returned well rested and a little heavier, B Squadron planned and executed a PCF cycle. During this training period the Squadron qualified a number of soldiers on the 25mm Coyote Gunnery system as well as the surveillance suite. In addition to these Coyote PCF courses there were also other important courses being run like the AVAMQ and a Bison Driver course. When all was said and done the vast majority of the Squadron received an additional qualification. With the PCF cycle complete and TF 3-06 getting closer and closer to deployment it was time, once again, for B Squadron to do its part in ensuring that the task force was ready to go. To do this B Squadron organized two Theatre Mission Specific Training (TMST) stands. Convoy Operations and Scene Management were the subjects of interest and with the help of some soldiers with Afghanistan experience and a little bit of imagination on the part of the PTA, the stands were a great success. They provided authentic training and gave the PTA an excellent start state in their respective areas of interest. During the months of April and jm May it was finally time once again for B Squadron to deploy to the field and undergo its own training. Ex DRAGOON 11 involved a combination of mounted and dismounted operations. During this exercise the

•fT '• mounted portion of the exercise the 21A deploys the MMSS while occupying an OP squadron conducted patrolling lectures in in the RMA. The RMA was used extensively for garrison before kicking off the 3 day all recce tasks during Ex CHARGING dismounted ex with the annual BFT. DRAGOON II. I change in seasons from spring to summer brought no change in the tempo for B Squadron. Following Ex CHARGING DRAGOON II B squadron was tasked with an exercise trial of the Situational Awareness System (SAS) to trial its ability to monitor friendly troops in the field. The SAS trail took place in the CFB Petawawa training area and in the RMA. Following the SAS exercise B Squadron jumped right into their own TMST training. Again, this training was designed to present the PTA with realistic training scenarios and test their ability to deal with various different operational situations in preparation for deployment on TF 1-07 with the 2RCR BG. n closing, the 2005-06 year has been a very busy one for B Squadron, from returning from Afghanistan to getting ready to go again. There have been a number of valuable training opportunities that have been taken advantage of by the members of B Squadron, both as training support and the PTA. Lessons have been learned and the stage set for another successful deployment and return for the members of B Squadron. f

IHemoniam Major Raymond Ruckpaul was born in Hamilton, Ontario, on 1 October 1965. He joined the Canadian Forces in June 1985 as part of the Regular Officer Training Plan. On completion of Armour Officer training. Major Ruckpaul was posted to the 8''^ Canadian Hussars and later rebadged to the Royal Canadian Dragoons. Major Ruckpaul was serving in Kabul, Afghanistan as part of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan.

Major Raymond Ruckpaul

Warrant Officer Randolph (Randy) Cox was born in Harbour Breton, Newfoundland, on 7 September 1965. He joined the Canadian Forces in March 1984. After completion of his basic training in Cornwallis, he was posted with the 8'^ Canadian Hussars (Princess Louise""s) in Petawawa. In June of 1987, he rebadged to the Royal Canadian Dragoons where he remained until 1994 when he was posted to the Armour School from 1994 until 2000. On promotion to Sergeant, he was posted to the RCD in Petawawa from 2000 to 2003. He was then posted to Yellowknife in 2003, and on promotion to Warrant Officer he was posted back to the Armour School in 2005. In June 2006, he was posted back to the RCD where he was to have served as a Troop Warrant Officer in B Squadron.

Warrant Officer Randy Cox

Born on 20 April 1966 in South Bend, Newfoundland, Sergeant Craig Paul Gillam enrolled in the Canadian Forces at Saint John's, Newfoundland in July 1987. Spending most of his time in New Brunswick, Sergeant Gillam amved at the Regiment in Petawawa in July 2005 upon promotion to his current rank. While Sergeant Gillam's deployment to Afghanistan was his first operational tour, he was nonetheless considered to j be an extremely professional Senior NCO who demonstrated compassion and care for others.

Sergeant Craig Gillam

26 J Master Corporal Allan Maurice James Stewart was born in Newcastle, New Brunswick on 02 May 1976. He joined the Canadian Forces on 19 September 1997 and reported to the Royal Canadian Dragoons in April 1998. Staying at the Regiment throughout his career, he advanced to his present rank in September 2006. Master Corporal Stewart's most recent deployment to Afghani.stan with B Squadron as part of Task Force 1-07 was his third deployment overseas. He previously deployed to Bosnia-Herzegovina in 2001 and then to Afghanistan in 2003 as part of Operation ATHENA in the Kabul area.

Master Corporal Allan Stewart

Corporal Robert Thomas James Mitchell enrolled in the Canadian Forces at Hamilton, Ontario in September 2001. During his military career, Corporal Mitchell was posted to several locations throughout Canada prior to Joining The Royal Canadian Dragoons in Petawawa in January 2003. He attended his training at the Armour School in New Brunswick and prior to arriving at the Regiment, served with the Lord Strathcona's Horse (Royal Canadians) in Alberta. In August of this year, he deployed on his first operational tour to Afghanistan. V

Corporal Robert Mitchell

Trooper Darryl Caswell was born on 31 July, 1981 in Bowmanville, Ontario. He enrolled in the Canadian Forces in December 2004 in Oshawa, joining The Royal Canadian Dragoons in August 2005 after completing his crewman training in Gagetown, New Brunswick. Trooper Caswell's deployment to Afghanistan with B Squadron as part of the Second Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment Battle Group was his first operational tour abroad.

Trooper Darryl Caswell

27 Trooper Patrick Pentland was born in Lahr Germany on 13 January 1984. Trooper Pentland later settled in Geaiy, New Brunswick where he would later enroll in the Canadian Forces in August 2004. His deployment to Afghanistan with B Squadron as part of Task Force 1-07 was Trooper Pentland's first operational tour, where he was employed as a driver of a Coyote armour reconnaissance vehicle.

Trooper Patrick Pentland

Trooper Mark Andrew Wilson was born in London, Ontario on 15 December 1966. He joined the Canadian Forces in December 2003 and prior to reporting to The Royal Canadian Dragoons in March 2005, attended training at the Canadian Forces Fleet School in Esquimalt, British Columbia, the Canadian Forces Leadership and Recruit School in St-Jean-Sur-Richelieu, Quebec, and the Armour School in Oromocto, New Brunswick. Trooper Wilson's deployment to Afghanistan was his first operational tour.

Trooper Mark Wilson

Always Forever

28 'THemonial

On the ll"' of November 2006, eight

~~ ; ~~ ^ r 77" ; 2 77 I Herzegovina, the many CF members of Operation Boreas assembled at the Corporal James .. ® ,,, , W. Ogilvie Memorial near Kleiiova,Klenova, Bosnia and Herzegovina. missions around the world I where Canadian soldiers have and continue to serve, and during the World Wars of the past century. local^^A beautiful wreath made -4^i4"

C -Wi

Corporal James W. Ogilvie Memorial near Klenovac, Bosnia and Herzegovina. Fall 2006 was a periodof transformation for all members of B Squadron as they conducted extensive training in preparation for Task Force Afghanistan Roto 3 as part of the 2 RCR Battle Group. Following extensive periods of individual training, including Coyotecourses and mission specific training, these skills were confirmed with two major field exercises: Ex ROYAL ARCHER II and Ex MAPLE GUARDIAN, conducted in Gagetown and Wainwright respectively. The importance of these exercises could not be overstated, as they brought together the two 8-car Coyote Troops with Recce Platoon and the Snipers from 2 RCR.

Cpl Duperron and Tpr Larkin performing Taliban mortar teams as simulated targets in maintenance on their Coyote during Ex order to exercise fire discipline and control MAPLE GUARDIAN. within the Troops. The range, however austere, ' provided a good opportunity for the gunners to shoot and conduct rapid ammunition uploads under blackout conditions. As the Troops rotated between the live fire stands and Troop training the weather remained nice and dry; unfortunately, that would not remain so. As is the case when training for any length of time in Gagetown the weather turned bad and it rained and rained and continued raining until the SHQ command post was under a foot of water. Squadron signaller Corporal Kelly Mess set back relations in the Squadron when he knocked the toque of Recce Platoon Commander, Captain Larry Sandford, into a muddy poo! at the start of an 0-Group. The rain also created a number of mobility problems, especially for Sgt Mike Monahan and MCpl Steve Simpson of the 62A patrol. Their efforts to manoeuvre through the southwest side of Scotty Dog Wood ended with both Coyotes getting completed bogged down in mud. SSM Bill Richards came to the rescue, and promptly got stuck as well, along with the recovery vehicle. The OC, Maj Steve Graham, was the third wave, and managed to extricate the SSM and the MRV. The executive decision was made to leave 62A in place until daylight. Squadron Headquarters received an attachment of a UAV detachment from 2RCHA. This det didn't actually have any UAVs with which to train, and pushed the concept of 'notional' to an absurd degree. Initially they were adamant that they required 8 hours of uninterrupted sleep every night in order to fly their notional UAV. That didn't fly with Warrant Officer Doug Elliott, and as a result they found themselves on C6 sentry duty with the nickname of Kite 1. But with all the pieces working together. Ex ROYAL ARCHER II proved to be a great opportunity for the Squadron shake out and start learning how to operate with one another, thus setting the Squadron up for future success. Two weeks after returning from Gagetown, B Squadron was on the move again, this time to another one of Canada's "wonderful" training areas: Wainwright, home of the Canadian Manoeuvre Training Centre, the CP's focal point for collective training. Ex MAPLE GUARDIAN would be B Squadron's focus over the next 5 weeks and would prove to be an excellent opportunity to showcase the abilities of all the soldiers. The -i exercise was broken down into three portions: lED stands; live fire; and force on force 1 training. The lED stands were an exercise in driving cross-country or bypassing the lEDs, which were spotted on every occasion by lead each convoy into an lED for the sake of ' "- " training, which admittedly proved I beneficial to the Squadron. Oneof the 61A finds itself in aprecariousposition atop 61B's scariest incidents ofthe lED training fuel tank. occurred to 61G as they rolled 3 complete times down a steep hill. Everyone breathed a sigh of relief as Sgt Tony Rusk, Tpr Yanik Allard, Tpr Keith Rombough, and Tpr Dustin Barnett walked away with minor injuries. The memorable line for that crew was "left, left, left... F**K." Every member of the Squadron had the opportunity to leave the camp and participate in a convoy and have that convoy ambushed. This even included the B Echelon as the 2IC, Captain Francis Conliffe, and the clerk. Leading Seaman Sophie Duval, had the opportunity to get some trigger time. Both were GIBs in the LO's vehicle during a QRF task in response to a vehicle accident. As the QRF was establishing the outer cordon the LO's vehicle came under contact from the rear and as a result the 2IC and Cpl Chris Morine dismounted and engaged the lone gunman. Meanwhile, a camouflagedenemy light machine gun began engaging from the flank, resulting in the 2IC taking a "Superman dive" for cover as he shouted fire orders and LS Duval responded with effective fire on the contact, thus saving the crew. Concurrent to the JED training was the live fire training, where a troop would be attached to each of the Combat Teams and would provide a screen on the village of Rawanay. For Warrant OfficerKen Nykorak and his patrol of 61A this would be an experience to remember as they had the unenviable opportunity to be on the wrong end of a one-way range. As the combatteam advanced on the village one of the tanks fired a round into the berm directly in front of their position. Fortunately no one was hurt. After the round impacted WO Nykorak would memorably come over the means, dryly stating "they're shooting at us." This was just the first in a number of engagements between Dragoons andStrathcona's. Situational awareness during complex night operations did, however, improve over the course of the exercise. As the exercise transitioned from stands to force-on-force it was clear from the variety of dirty upper lips that the cheesy-moustache competition was underway in the Squadron, with even the OC participating. At the end of the exercise, LS Duval lined up all the contestants and judged Tpr Jesse Renaud the clear winner. The Squadron also found time to celebrate Leliefontein and Remembrance Day, though the requested rum rations failed to materialize. Within SHQ. Leliefontein was especially memorable as Tpr Andrew Von Ruczicki, the most Junior soldier in SHQ, read out the Action of Leliefontein to the entire Troop, huddled together in a cold CP.

B -:.".' ThroughoutSnipers had the opportunityforce-on-forceto conductportion ofa widethe 55*" array of tasks. One Troop conducted a series

Two Troop became the OP specialists,

Sglc. . Ru.skD i and7ZTpr Allard...sokiienns on alter~ ~their I The first Battle Groupr operationr was Opr rollover. " EXODUS, an attack on the village of I Nakhonay and surrounding objectives that quickly succumbed to a combination of Murphy's Law and Old Man Winter. First, One Troop decided to descend a steep incline in blackout drive and snowstorm conditions, resulting in 61A smashing into the back of the 618, ripping off one of the fuel tanks. The fuel tank was then run-over. Observer Controller WO Cal Mitchell, following the troop in a MILCOT, contributed to the chaos by subsequently colliding with 61A, and a tank with rollers brought the events to a close by clipping the MILCOT, which was a graphic demonstration of kinetic energy at its finest. Again, the Squadron was lucky as no one was seriously injured. Meanwhile, on the west side of the objective, the soldiers of 62E, led by Sgt Craig Buckle, continued to have bad luck in their OP. Earlier in the exercise their mast had collapsed due to the cold weather. This night their mud OP was engaged by the A Sqn LdSH combat team, shortly followed by their remote system cable beingrun over by a navigationally-challenged Military Police patrol, with the cable being ripped out of both sockets. Discussions are ongoing about whether the MPs should be picking up the cost of a new 200 metre cable. Op GALLOWS came next, concluding with a battle group attack on the village of Rawanay, which contained 50 Taliban. B Squadron was tasked to screen the objective, feint to the east of the village, recce the routes to the attack position, and secure the LD for the combat teams. As partof the screen on the village Recce Platoon and the Snipers used indirect and direct fires in order to prepare the objective for the attack. With upwards of5 Generals in attendance, BSquadron shone in all ofthe.se tasks and reduced the Taliban force to 7 fighters. Commander CMTC rather unsporting resurrected the majority ofthe fighters as he believ.ed the Infantry Combat teams would too easily seize the objective. Two days later during a final AAR Commander CMTC would tell the leadership of the entire Task Force that B Squadron was "onechecked out organization," the only sub-unit he publicly identified. As the exercisedrew to a close, B Squadron's final operation was in supportof the PRT in the town of Spin Boldak. The Squadronwas tasked to screen the routes into the town and to be prepared to interdictanyone trying to enter the town. One Troop quickly interdictedand detained severalTaliban fighters, whereupon the PRT lost control of their net and asked the Battle Captain, Captain Sean Pires, to control their net for them. After two hours of waiting for the PRT's Military Police to take the detainees, the Squadron lost patience and had to moveto other tasks. Maj SteveGraham told 61 "by my watch it is 11:38, we're leaving in 4 minutes regardless." This was followed by the BC, Capt Sean Pires encouraging the PRT to pick up the pace, stating that if MPs weren't on the scene in two minutes, they'd find the detainees hog-tied and left on the side of the road. End ex provided a sufficient lull for SHQ to review the laws of armed conflict. The conclusion of Ex MAPLE GUARDIAN completedthe collectivetraining portionof B Squadron's work up training. While some individual trainingremains, the Squadron is confident that the soldiers are as well prepared as possible for combat operations and all ranks look forward to leaving the snow and ice of Canada for the sun and dust of Afghanistan.

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33 J •'r't 1' d^ -5

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The fall arrived as a busy time of year for the members of D Squadron, The Royal Canadian Dragoons. In September, the Squadron took the lead in running the 2006 Ironman competition. This involved many early mornings and a couple of late nights but, as usual, the members of the Squadron showed their standard high level of motivation and dedication which was evident in the success of the Ironman. The Squadron also sent soldiers to CFB Gagetown, NB to act as Observer/Controllers to assist B Squadron in their training for their rotation to Afghanistan in February 2007. These same soldiers, along with many others from the Regiment, were also in Wainwright during October and November to again assist B Squadron in their validation exercise for their February 2007 rotation. Concurrent to this, the Squadron ran Theatre Mission Specific Training (TMST) stands for the Regiment's stand-by

Payne and Lt Tim Scantlebury conducted a Convoy Escort stand m V which drew on their years of to make the as effective as possible for the audience. After theory classes and demonstrations by Sgt Matthew Taylor, MCpl Shawn Rheaume, Members of D Squadron conducting convoy drills during the MCpl Sean Chard and their TMST stand. respective crews, the training groups had the opportunity to - was kept on their toes by the use of blank ammunition, thunderflashes, and artillery & I '] simulators from the members of 3rd Troop acting \ •'• as the enemy force. The scenarios went very ' _ •) "s .well and the training audience learned many ^ lessons. The members of3 Troop also received C/S 42 with Sub-Lieutenant Mitch Atkinson at the helm ended up in a useful training in that they had the difficult situation when the coyote attempted to transform into a opportunity to see, from the enemy's submarine during the week long exercise prior to Wainwright. point of view, the effectiveness of drills. D Squadron also ran numerous TMST stands in the Fall for the Operational Mentoring Liaison Team (OMLT). The Squadron Battle Captain, Captain Matt Johnson, and Quarter-Master Sergeant, WO Hoyt, ran two live-fire counter ambush range. The members of the OMLT, crowing "G-Wagon" Light Utility Vehicles, were required to engage targets on the move and also to dismount to deal with a simulated convoy ambush. Before the arrival of the OMLT members, the Squadron got the chance to take a few practice runs through the range. This was yet another valuable training opportunity that was good for all members of the Squadron who had the chance to participate. The Squadron finally got a much deserved break in December with Christmas leave, but in January the Squadron was right back in to the high-tempo of being the reconstitution Squadron. The winter months saw D Squadron conducting a Turret Operator Course and a Surveillance Operator Course as « part of the PCF cycle as well as a winter warfare exercise I' .f in early March. The end of March saw the Squadron ± preparing for deployment to J'ahjBfeL .k .A Wainwright in support of a Combat Team Commanders Course (CTCC). This involved aweek long exercise to ^ ^ v prepare the composite troop for the deployment, and the -si •M actual deployment to Wainwright for much of April. * During the brief lulls in the training, the Squadron also participated in Individual Battle Task Standard training including personal weapons, ranges, first-aid, and

visits to the gas hut. Over and above all of this, the Members of DSquadron during the wiwinter Squadron picked up the Disaster Assistance Response warfare exercise. Team (DART) tasking. With the high tempo of I training, it is definitely an exciting time to be a member of D Squadron! www.gdcanada.com

Proud Supporters of Canadian Army Transformation

f 2005 - 2006

LCol Thomas LE Capt Omidi AA MWO Lehman S Maj Andrews JL Capt Popov M MWO Turcotte JRB Maj Atherton AJ Capt Saunders EA WO Aubin BE Maj Fleet JP Lt Boak RS WO Beckett BS Maj Follwell JP Lt Curley SS WO Bennett TA Maj Lussier AJ Lt Duncan CM WO Berrigan DJ Capt Andrechek JE Lt Forsyth N WO Blain JEJ Capt Auld FG Lt Hook PE WO Brown RK Capt Beharrysingh DM Lt Koenderman LGJ WO Brown M Capt Cameron RD Lt Miller CA WO Bryant RE Capt Conliffe FCJ Lt Pak VI WO Chaloux DE Capt Duggan M Lt Reynolds MP WO Collier CD Capt Giberson SB Lt Vant Klaphek JW WO Elliott DA Capt Hardwick JB 2Lt Gould BJ WO Gasser MA Capt Hutt CG 2Lt Marez JC WO Guthrie WJ Capt Johnson MRT 2Lt Shentag TJ WO Hebert MJ Capt Lillington CD CWO Lavesque JDJ WO Happen JD Capt Marois RV MWO Brabant JMG WO Herbst IG Capt Mccloskey ME MWO Chouinard JC WO Hoyt DT Capt Monaghan JK MWO Cox CE WO Lavigueur E Capt Morin RMR MWO Donnelly KE WO Leclerc PJF Capt Morrison AJ MWO Head DW WO Mathers K

37 wo Mclaughlin DF Sgt Donovan AZ Sgt Mcarthur CS WO Merritt JA Sgt Garland ED Sgt Mcnabb S WO Pichie KTJ Sgt Gillam CP Sgt Noddin SA WO Richards WA Sgt Graveline JLG Sgt Perry IJ WO Rosborough JD Sgt Hepditch CJ Sgt Pearce EW WO Saunders J Sgt Hermiston D Sgt Redmond DR WO Trainor KJ Sgt Hotte JSR Sgt Rose BA WO Whitehall R Sgt Johannessen JB Sgt Spence TJ WO Zinck D Sgt Laforge JP Sgt Theriault KJ Sgt A'Hern FP Sgt Lafroy D Sgt Tingley CW Sgt Barrett JS Sgt Lang WE Sgt Tower JD Sgt Barry MA P02 Mackay D Sgt Woelders AJ Sgt Bryan WJ Sgt Maclaren DA Sgt Zimmerling L Sgt Buckle AC Sgt Malott KR Sgt Deveaux TW Sgt Marcinowski RW

2006-2007

LCol Cadden SM Capt Vant Klaphek WO Hoyt DT Maj Fleet JP Lt Atkinson MW WO Jinks DP Maj Follwell JP Lt Bulley RC WO Laverdure C Maj Graham G Lt Gould BJ WO Maclaren DA Maj Lillington CD Lt Maerz JC WO Mitchell KT Maj Lussier AJ Lt Peitzsche TJ WO Nykorak KW Maj Tremblay DD Lt Pineau SPG WO Robertson AM Capt Akerstream L Lt Scantlebury TW WO Rosborough JD Capt Auld FG Lt Wong KW WO Saunders J Capt Boak RS 2Lt Lambert DA WO Smith RL Capt Conliffe FCJ OCdt Slimser DJ WO TraskJA Capt Curley SS CWO Lee K WO Young JD Capt Duncan CM MWO Brabant JMG Sgt A'Hern FP Capt Forsyth N MWO Chouinard JC Sgt Barry MA Capt Giberson SB MWO Donnelly KE Sgt Briggs DD Capt Johnson MRT MWO Lehman S Sgt Buckle AC Capt Lambert LH MWO Osterholm JR Sgt Corbett WT Capt Lepak N MWO Richards WA Sgt Deveaux TW Capt Marois PA MWO Whitehall R Sgt Donohue MJ Capt Marois RV WO BarrJ Sgt Donovan AZ Capt Miller CA WO Bennett TA Sgt Fraser JD Capt Monaghan JK WO Blain JEJ Sgt Hepditch CJ Capt Morin RMR WO Brown M Sgt Hermiston DD Capt Pak VI WO Bryant RE Sgt Hogg JS Capt Pires WO Elliott DA Sgt James GA Capt Reynolds MP WO Guerin P Sgt Kennedy RC Capt Shentag TJ WO Guthrie WJ Sgt Konkle AS Capt Tachie JQ WO Hebert MJ Sgt Laforge JP

38 P02 Mackay Sgt Ottar MJ Sgt Taylor MGS Sgt Maillet RA Sgt Payne RR Sgt Theriault KJ Sgt Malott KR Sgt Rusk C Sgt Urquhart CM Sgt Marcinowski RW Sgt Simoneau EL Sgt Woelders AJ Sgt Mcilvenna DH Sgt Spence TJ Set Woodcraft JR P02 Mcleod Sgt Staley MT Sgt Monahan MR Sgt Stanistreet TJ t

i^Ee}m2>n/iAAssofif}/nim

The Regimental Association, that collection of 700 odd (well, different) former Dragoons and their spouses spread all across the country, is alive and doing well. Organized in Chapters from the Atlantic provinces to BC, the Association is a support group, if you will - supporting the Regiment in all of its endeavours and, equally importantly, supporting each other and the Dragoon family as a whole, wherever needed. In 2006 and to date in 2007, members of the Association have attended Regimental celebrations, they have attended funerals and memorials to fallen members of both the Regiment and the Association, they have attended RCD Cadet parades and they have held their own celebrations and ceremonies to keep the history and traditions of the Regiment alive and well. A good case in point is the 2007 Association Reunion held in Windsor in late June of this year. It is really impressive, when you think about it, how much people enjoy ^ >. . — themselves at the Association's Reunions. ./Ina short space oftime, aday and a half - is really all it takes, the memories of years — are exchanged, While the stories seem to expand with our waistlines they certainly

Gabriel and his team did a really bang up 4W jot) on the 2007 Reunion and all ofits H activities. Never an easy task, they ^organizedsocial events such as the Meet I and Greet, a Reunion Dinner, an Annual Colonel of the Regiment,Resimeni, Col Mike AppleionAppleton and ^ i j ,.u i • ^ n f . Hi- General Meeting and, as the culmination Councilman Ron Jones, representing thettie Legion ® and the City of Windsor, unveiling the new of years of work, conducted a Memorial. Rededication Ceremony for the ' refurbishment of a Boer War monument in Windsor. Located in the Queen Elizabeth Gardens of Jackson Park in Windsor, the Windsor Boer War Memorial was first erected in 1906 and is dedicated to the men from Windsor and Essex Counties who died during the Boer War. A multi-year project to refurbish the Memorial was complete and the 2007 Association Reunion was the opportunity to once again pay tribute to those who fell while serving with the Regiment. Dragoons as well as members of the Royal Canadian Regiment and soldiers serving with other units are honoured here and the Memorial, once again proud, is a fitting tribute. Over a hundred members of the Dragoons, the RCR and the local Royal Canadian Legion marched behind their flags to the memorial where the rededication ceremony was conducted. The Colonel of the Regiment, Col Mike Appleton and Councilman Ron Jones, representing the Legion and the City of Windsor, unveiled the new Memorial. The social events were all everyone present could hope for. The Meet and Greet, held in the Reunion Headquarters at the Holiday Inn Select in Windsor featured much backslapping and "Why you old reprobate (or similar words), I haven't seen you in years. How areyou?" As the evening wore on, Tom Skelding with his button box andFrank Gabriel with a guitar borrowed from Tom Johnson organized a sing-along. The next evening, following the Annual General Meeting (uneventful)and the Rededication Ceremony, the Association members gathered at the Windsor Armouriesfor the Reunion Dinner and Dance. The food was good, the wine was flowing, the band kept everyone on their feet. The dancing was exceptional, as can be seen in one of the photos, with Sterling and Sandra Mercer showing everyone how it was done. Terry Cottrell gave an historical perspective of the Regiment and Master of Ceremonies Brian Hook passed out door prizes and kept the evening moving. The Chapter presented the Regiment with an oil painting of the Memorial which had been rededicated early in the day - the painting to hang in a suitable place at the Regiment. If it sounds like everyone had a good time in Windsor, it is because they did. It goes without saying that old Dragoons will have a good time wherever they get together and the 2007 Reunion in Windsor was no exception. A big BZto the SouthCentral Ontario Chapter for staging the event and everyone should take some time off to get ready for the 125'*' in Ottawa in 2008.

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& Conference Centre 1 International Drive Pembroke, Ontario K8A 6W5 "All Indoor" Hotel Famous for Ottawa Valley Hospitality Government Rates 800-567-2378 To saythat the Regiment's ''2005 Fall Training Campaign was quiet" is an understatement. As we ail know the Canadian Armed Forces have reached a spin cycle in the form of training. The non-stop battle to react to 2 CMBG tasking has led the Dragoons to be busier than ever. From welcoming home B Sqn from Afghanistan to training and shipping off D Sqn to Op Athena Roto 4. The regiment continued to bash forward, in true Dragoon style.

Regimental Headquarters

While Regimental Headquarters worked hard to coordinate the fall training for the whole unit, they even had a chance to squeeze in some of their own training. To making sure that they kept up their soldiering skills with MLOC training to participating in Exercises Walking Dragoon and Charging Dragoon. During this timeframe RHQ even learned a new term "Carfor". From Cpl Smith climbing on top of it, to Cpl Timms man handling sections of it. It was an interesting task to piece together.

A Sqn

During the training campaign we saw A Sqn underthe guidance of SSMRichards (to which he rec'd a commendation) work hard down on the Mattawa plains to set up what is now called our version of "Camp Julien." Once again the lack of vehicles within the Regiment forced A Sqn to adoptthe dreaded dismounted role. They found out what it was like to be without vehicles, especially on the cold nights during Exercises Walking and Charging Dragoon.

B Sqn

With B Sqn returning safe, sound and on a much deserved leave. We saw their return in true styleand fine form back to the Regiment. Their return saw them working on the Op Athena Roto 3 reconstitution and also getting back into step with the Regimental training. By participating as needed with Exercises Charging and Walking Dragoons and the Regimental Gun Camp. Duringthis time B Sqn took the opportunity to qualify some of their soldiers on much needed courses. With the training for the next Roto coming up, B Sqn helped organize two of the TMSTstands that would be used to train the next Task Force going over. There was also a change of SSM and OC. As SSM Brabant headed to HQ Sqn in the spring of 2006, SSM Richards took over the reigns and also MajorFleethanded over OC responsible of the Sqn to MajorGraham. D Sqn

The beginning of the 2005 Fall Training Campaign saw D Sqn heading out the dooron Op Athena Roto 4, where they worked as part of the KABUL MULTI NATIONAL BRIGADE (KMNB) working along side other countries. Being part of many operations anywhere from occupying observation posts toproviding support to the Afghanistan government during their elections. DSqn was a very busy group of soldiers. But their main tasking came near the end oftheir tour when they helped pack up Camp Julien and moved it toKandahar Airfield, Where they were involved inescorting and conducted over 20convoys to move thecamp. Butall work andno play for some make for a very dull tour. Especially Capt Schentag who had the honour oftaking Brigadier- General Thibaultout on a tour and ending up gettinghis entirePatrol stuck. So the rest of D Sqn sentoutthecavalry in theform of snipers to extract Brigadier- General Thibault.

HO Sqn

Lastbutnotleast, wehave thebackbone of theRegiment thatgets missed by most Troopers within the Regiment. Of courses weare referring to ourown HQ Sqn, which ensures the Sqns receive their beans and bullets toname a few. In addition to supporting the Sqns during exercises SSM Bezeau and TQ MWO Head found time too spice up our regiment lines and give new life to some old and forgotten by most. We are referring to theDragoon Tank Park akaSSM Bezeau's mini-putt thatwas opened onLeliefontein 2005 by our Honorary Colonel Addy.

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43 4

The Royal Canadian Dragoons (ROD) have been extremely busy during the Fall 2006 training period due to operational commitments. The Regiment's main focus was support to deployed forces, while providing realistic training to prepare future deploying forces.

The skills and experiences gained from the Fall Training Campaign for the Royal Canadian Dragoons proved invaluable to all members of the RCD. Given the tremendous success of the 2006 Fall Training Campaign, the RCD can only look forward to next years!

Regimental Headquarters

Regimental Headquarters (RHQ) focused their efforts on RHQ evolution, which saw numerous computer assisted exercises (CAX) and digitization training for all individuals. RHQ evolution was an excellent opportunity to provide valuable, realistic training in a digitized environment. Digitization training culminated with the completion of CAX EAGER BEAR I in January 2007, which saw 2 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Headquarters (2 CMBG) provide orders and direction the RCD in a simulated operational environment.

A Sqn

This past year saw A Squadron, under the command of Major Andrew Lussier, train and deploy toAfghanistan in August as part of 1st Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment (1 RCR) Task Force Afghanistan Rotation 2. Their extensive work-up training was immediately put to the test on arrival in Afghanistan, as they were immediately involved in large scale combat operations. Theiroutstanding work overseas and dedication to the mission brought great credit to the Regiment.

B Sqn

The Regiment's main effort during the Fall 2006 training period focused on B Squadron and pre-deployment training with the 2nd Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment (2 RCR) Battle Group. BSquadron, under the command ofMajor Steve Graham, commenced their pre-deployment training with high intensity level 2 and 3 training in the Petawawa area. Following extensive periods of individual training, including driving, gunnery and surveillance courses on the Light Armour Vehicle (LAV) "Coyote" and mission specific training, these skills were confirmed with two major field exercises: Exercise ROYAL ARCHER II and Exercise MAPLE GUARDIAN, conducted in Gagetown, New Brunswick and Wainwright, Alberta respectively. The importance of these exercises cannot be overstated, as they brought together the two eight-car Coyote Troops with ReccePlatoon and the Snipers from 2 RCR. D Sqn

The Fall arrived as a busy timeof yearfor the members of D Squadron, RCD. In September, theSquadron took thelead in running the2006IRONMAN competition. Once complete, theSquadron started to concentrate on completing Individual Battle Task Standards (IBTS). The Squadron ran numerous Theatre Mission Specific Training stands for up-coming rotations to Afghanistan in order to ensure that deploying personnel were wellprepared. This included conducting counterambush ranges and convoy operations.

HO Sqn

Headquarters Squadron kept very busyduring the FallTraining Campaign. Once the leadershipshuffle was complete,HQ Squadronconcentrated on Individual Battle Training Standards (IBTS) skills by deploying as a collective to Connaught Ranges. The majorityof the Squadroncompletedall mandatedIBTS trainingwithin the week. The remainder of the fall saw support to the Regiment withB Squadron, RCD as the priority while they did workup training for deployment to Afghanistan. In order to take the next step in collective training, the Squadron deployed to Edgar, Ontario for EX SUSTAINING DRAGOON to support an LFCA primaryreserveexercise. Upon return to garrison, the troops settled into continuation training to address the shortfalls of B vehicle fleet qualifications.

45 On 24 June 2006, command of The Royal Canadian Dragoons was handed over from LCol Lowell Thomas to LCol Stephen Cadden. Concurrently, the Regimental Sergeant Majorappointment changed from CWO Denis Levesque to CWO Kevin Lee. As with any change of command, several parade practices were held in preparation for the actual Change of

several months. To add to these activities, two Mixed Dining-Ins were held for both the lCoILCol SM CaddenCudclen leading the Regiment Officers and Senior NCOs of the Regiment, during the March Past. during which time the outgoing CO and RSM I both exchanged fond memories of their experiences at the Regiment. The months preceding the change of command were, therefore, an extremely busy time for the Regiment! The Regiment's overall industriousness paid dividends, however, as the Change of Command Parade and the BOI proceeded without much incident. Accompanied by the music provided by the Governor General's Horse Guards Band, the parade was attended by friends andfamily members of the Regiment to include the following dignitaries: Commander 2 CMBG and Reviewing Officer, ^ Royal Canadian Armour Corps, Col Peter

Hazelton; and Vice Chief of Defence Staff, LGen Walter Natynczyk. ^ Under blue skies and a temperate climate, the handover certificates were signed,

^ • Regimental Guidon was passed, and gifts were presented and exchanged to the outgoing and LCol LE Thomas and CWO JDLevesque incoming members of the Regimental taking the salute during the Regimental Command Team. In addition to this, in March Past priorto clepaning departingthe parade. recognition for their high standard of leadership, dedication and soldiering abilities, Sgt J.M. Hebert, Sgt K.J. Theriault, MCpl J.D. Fraser, and Cpl G.R. Weir were awarded the 2 CMBG Proficiency Award by the Brigade Commander. The abovementioned soldiers, all of whom belong to A Sqn, were judged by the Regiment's Chain of Command to be highly proficient members who displayed the traits and characteristics of outstanding soldiers. Their success was due to hard work and a commitment to self-improvement that the Regiment deemed to be exemplary to others. In accordance with Regimental tradition, LCol Thomas and CWO Levesque departed the parade square in a LAV III, as this was, and continues to be, the most fitting way for the Regiment to bid farewell to its departing members. The newly arrived Command Team, which comprised of LCol Cadden and CWO Lee, formed an interesting dynamic, as both the incoming CO and RSM had a great deal to offer based on their differing backgrounds and experiences. Born in Coventry, England, LCol Cadden assumed command of the Regiment as its fifty-first CO. Following his graduation from Le College Militaire Royale de Saint Jean in Quebec in 1989, LCol Cadden was subsequently posted to the 8th Canadian Hussars (Princess Louise) in Lahr, Germany. He joined The Royal Canadian Dragoons in June of 1995, where he fulfilled the roles of BC and 2IC before serving for 6 months in Jamaica as Training Officer for the Jamaican Junior Command and Staff College. Upon his promotion to Major, LCol Cadden served as the Base Personnel Administration Officer for CFB Petawawa, in addition to commanding Recce and B Sqns. After earning a Masters Degree in Defence Studies, he served on the Land Staff at NDHQ, in addition to deploying to Afghanistan. CWO Lee, on the other hand, began his i 4 • jS: " military career in May 1977 as a Reservist and upon his transfer to the Regular Force in 1987, was posted to the 8th Canadian Hussars in Petawawa and subsequently to Lahr, Germany. After his return to Canada, CWO Lee saw \ multiple deployments to the Former Republic of Yugoslavia with the 12e Regiment Blinde de Canada in 1992, and with The Royal Canadian Dragoons in 1994 and 2001. Following his

Canadian Forces Training Development Center i ^ atCFB Borden as the School Sergeant Major. CWO™ KM Leehanding over the Regimental T>Promotedj to hisu- cun-ent rank1 in• JuneT 2005 andj ceremoniesGuidon to LCol SM Cadden during handover posted to the Armour School as the Standards I ceremonies.^ CWO at CTC Gagetown prior to his return to the Regiment, CWO Lee assumed his responsibilities as the thirty-second RSM. With A Sqn overseas and the anticipated deployment of B Sqn in February 2007 as part of Task Force 1-07, the Regiment, and hence LCol Cadden and CWO Lee, were both immediately immersed in their respective roles from the onset.

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Wills kS; l-Nliilcs • l'crson;il • forporaU- I.aw keal ICslale • Insurance <."o\ cr;ige Disputes • l-'.iiipio> inenl l.iiw Free Consultation & Contingency Agreements in Personal Injury Cases Service can be provided in French ^^ , (613) 735-2341 m i 284 Pembroke St. East Pembroke, Ont. ^ (for residence phone i^'S'see white pages under Pembroke) i I website: www.hsolawyers.com email: [email protected] Since September 2005 the Canadian Forces has, on a bi-lateral basis, provided a team of strategic military planners to support the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan in developing key national strategies and mechanisms for the effective implementation of those strategies. The team is called the Strategic Advisory Team - Afghanistan, or SAT-A. For the past year, two of the members of the SAT-A have been Dragoons, LCoI Bernie Derible and Maj Christopher Renahan. The Strategic Advisory Team consists of 15 Canadian Forces members and civilian employees, augmented by a CIDA officer to advise on development issues. The team includes a small command and support element, two teams of strategic planners, a defence analyst and a strategic communications advisor. The SAT-A works in consultation with the Canadian Ambassador, the Head of Aid and a senior representative of the Afghan government in ^ providing direct planning support to government , ministries and working groups iLlul in the development and ifiiiTii%liT Ff governance realms. To date, the team has worked extensively with the "7 7" II".''• Afghanistan's National ijSpjp - Jj Development Strategy * Working Group, Public Administration Reform, Civil Service Gender Equity Policy. and with the Ministry of Rural * Rehabilitation and Development. The teams are Major Christopher Renahan in Afghanistan as part ofthe Strategic embedded in their partner Advisory Team - Afghanistan. Afghan Government ministries ' and agencies and work under Afghan leadership. The basic method of operation is that the team assists working level officials integrate the substantive ideas of the Afghan leadership and international experts into cohesive strategic frameworks. LCol Derible was intimately involved with the Afghanistan National Development Strategy and the effort to meet the terms of the Afghanistan Compact. The Afghanistan Compact provides the framework for international community engagement in Afghanistan. At the conference, Canada pledged its full support and was instrumental in ensuring that the Compact included a mechanism to monitor programs and promote forward momentum. The Compact sets out detailed outcomes, benchmarks, timelines for delivery and mutual obligations that aim to ensure greatercoherence of efforts between the Afghan government and the international community. TheCompact seeks to build lasting Afghan capacity and effective state and civil society institutions, with particular emphasis on building up the human capacities of both men and women. LCol Derible's efforts were focused on mentoring the staff and leadership responsible for the monitoring of Afghanistan's progress towards meeting the Compact's goals and worked daily with the Afghan staff and international community of the Afghanistan National Development Strategy office. Maj Renahan worked with the Independent Administration Reform and Civil Service Commission. The Commission was established in 2002 and is the lead body within the government for the coordination of public administration reform in Afghanistan. In evolving to a more _ modern and open civil service, the challenges facing the Commission have iCt isf been significant and focused on i^Ti'X attempting to introduce a merit-based hiring process, revised and increased pay scales, new civil servant grade structure, ^ ^ training, and overall restructuring of all iflHIVV ^^iSr aspects of government machinery. \ \ Working closely with the Ambassador, CIDA and the Afghan Government, SAT-A is an example of the "whole of government" concept at work so that Canada can maximize the value of its contribution. The planning team LCol Derible and Maj Renahan receiving a members bring a very wide range of familiarization of Kabul from Capt Alex Haynes training, education, experience, and (middle), of SAT Roto 0. military strategic planning skills to bear on the resolution of complex civil problems. All members of the SAT-A worked within the highest levels of the Afghan Government. The level of cooperation, acceptance and friendship that developed between the SAT-A and their Afghan counterparts was truly representative of the high degree of trust and close working relationship that existed. The opportunity to haveplayed such a role in a country's development, and hopefully witha meaningful impact, is not one that will be soon forgotten. 'THm d 2005

As is the tradition, the end of the year | is the time for the Regiment to have a little ii fun and celebrate the holiday season. While I ^ the Regiment was a little smaller than usual ' (with aSquadron deployed to Afghanistan) LJP^ ^ we still held our annual Soldiers'Christmas Bl fcfc .I ^1 Ir . Dinner at the base kitchen. The Officers and Senior NCOs skillfully served the junior ^ ranks a well-deserved meal ofturkey. k stuffing, potatoes and a few bubbly m beverages. Holiday cheer spread throughout the crowd with twelve promotions to iK Corporal and a new Senior NCO in the l promotion of SergeantZak Donovan. By the | end, the soldiers were boisterous, had full i w -- stomachs and were in the mood for the SetSgl Donovan receiving his promotion at the dinner.din holidays. With the troops dismissed, the 1 I Officers and Senior NCOs made quick work of the mess left behind and then made their way down to the Holland Room to continue the festivities. This was another busy year for the Regiment and we all enjoyed a well-deserved holiday with family and friends.

Dinner in Kabul 2005

When Canada's Afghanistan commitment changed focus in the fall of 2005 from the Province of Kabul to the Province of Kandahar, D Squadron played a pivotal role in securing the convoys of

the

to the of work coupled with the i ——— ^^ dismantling ofCamp ^ enjoys abarbeque dinner to commemorate the transition from Julien left The Squadron Brigade to Op ARCHER and with little opportunity to I conduct a proper Soldiers' Christmas Dinner. We did, however, have supper as a Squadron on 18 October as part of the ceremony marking the end of our time with the Kabul Multinational Brigade (KMNB) and the beginning of ourtime with Operation Archer in Kandahar. After a quick parade D Squadron retired to the mess with our Reviewing Officer, Brigadier-General Graziano {Italian Army) the Comd of KMNB. Our dinner also represented the last function in the Camp Julien mess....it was torn down and packed up the next morning! Our meal was expertly barbequed by the Battle Group cooks, complete with steaks, chicken, salad.. .and even cold beer! Fun was had by all and Brigadier-General Graziano, summed up his feelings telling us - "I wish all my units were of the same calibre as my Canadian Reconnaissance Squadron." Enough said.

'Dcmten- 2006

As another extremely busy fall period came to a close, on 14 December the Regiment took the opportunity to uphold the time honoured tradition of an all ranks Dragoons Christmas Dinner. The Officers, Warrant Officers and Senior NCOs of the Regiment happily served the soldiers the traditionally delicious meal of turkey, potatoes and fresh vegetables....topped with a few barley chasers (of course!). On a sombre note, it also represented the first opportunity that the Regiment I (minus A Squadron who was still in Afghanistan) had to sit together and ^

There was, ho reason to celebrate as a large number Sgt Hogg promoted by the CO. ofDragoons received medals or | promotions (twenty two in all!) - including the promotion of our youngest Tpr, Tpr Francis to LCol and Acting CO for a day, andour oldest MCpl, MCpl Potvin to CWO andActing RSM for a day. The Acting CO quickly employed his new found powers, ordering the subalterns to sing several stirring andmemorable Christmas carols. Unfortunately, the subbies were unable to satisfy the rowdy crowd and the Acting RSM had to wrangle his Senior NCOs into shape to form their own chorus line. When that went horribly wrong, the Acting CO had had enough and quickly ordered the dinner to conclude and offered us the rest of the day off...what a swell guy! All-in-all, fun was had by all. With the Base Kitchen staffs fantastic meal, given that most of it was eaten rather than thrown, what more can you ask for! Exercise Plein Conact 2007

On the weekend of 10-11 Feb 07 the dragoons participated in a friendly sports challenge in Valcartier against teams from 12e RBC, the armoured school, and some armoured reserve units from Quebec. The sports that were played were ice hockey, floor hockey and volleyball but the RCD were only able to field teams for the hockey. Our teams played well but in the end of the day 12e RBC won the award for having the most successful teams. Winter Inter-unit Snorts 2006-2007

The Regt was able to field teams for ice hockey for the A and B leagues. The B league team had a good season but ultimately lost in the opening round of the playoffs. The A league team had an outstanding season, going all the way to the playoff finals. Sadly they lost that game 7-2 to 3RCR.

; J 1-

-F t f f I- ^ •"i-.X

Summer Inter-unit Sports 2006

The Regt had teams participating in soccer, softball and golf in 2006. The playoff finals were played during the 2006 Terry Fox day on 31 Aug 06. The golf team won the Bear Cup by defeating 2 Svc Bn and the soccer team made it all the way to the finals against 3 RCR but ended up loosing in a very close match. The running team the participated in the Terry fox run finished with a very respectable time. Thetug of war competition that occurred during the Terry Foxday saw a very strong RCD team narrowly losing out to 3 RCR.

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*

€utd TCit 2005-2006

Welcome to The Royal Canadian Dragoons Canteen and Kit Shop. The Fiscal Year of 2005/06 has been tremendous, and one distinguished by changes in management, structure, style and growth. All these changes have spearheaded a forward momentum in the day-to-day operations of the Regimental Canteen and Kit Shop. From the top. Captain Beharrysingh's talents were required elsewhere, and upon hisposting to the F' Hussars in London, Ontario, made way forCaptain Pak, who assumed his new responsibilities as Assistant Adjutant and Regimental Accounts Officer with much zeal. After years of dedicated service Master Corporal Manny hung up his hat and finally retired following twenty-five plus years of service with the Regiment. Before the soldiers could take a breath. Warrant Officer Bryant made his presence known, as he "took hold of the reins and let loose the change" as the incoming overall curator of the Regimental Canteen and Kit Shop. Warrant Officer Bryant, the true Charging Dragoon, took what had been merely good ideas and made things happen. First, the Kit Shop was relocated to the far end of the Building C-50, providing more square footage and a challenge for Corporal Ram to kit up. Warrant Officer Bryant and Corporal Ram took to this task enthusiastically and with much diligence, exploiting each other's business acumen to the fullest extent. The Kit Shop was soon transformed into a trade outlet with sales soaring over four hundred percent! To date, the Kit Shop continues to provide the soldiers with quality clothing and items at reasonable prices. Second to the Kit Shop was the improvement of the Canteen under the direction ofCorporal Ram, who provided daily lunch specials and specialty coffees, which lured customers from all over the base. The Kit Shop and Canteen were only the beginning for Warrant Officer Bryant, who seemed to have his hands everywhere. Warrant Officer Bryant endeavoured to introduce the Kit Shop online as part of the Regimental Website, which subsequently led to numerous phone calls and hits from both active and retired Dragoons. Corporal Risser, who is often described as "a charismatic and endless pit of energy", can hardly been seen in one location for longer than five minutes, as he fills mail orders, stocks shelves and requisitions supplies, among other things. Corporal Risser, who is known for his humorous and devoted chant, "I am in the service industry, therefore I will provide you with quality service," can he heard over any conversation as he entertainsand serves hungry lunch crowds on a daily basis. As if the Kit Shop and its online introduction were not enough. Warrant Officer Bryantintroduced yet another project. Since the KitShopengraving was going so well, the Regimentwill endeavourto provide medal mounting. Once established, it is the Regiment's intentto havethe medal mounting shop opento members outside of the Regiment. In light of this new task. Corporal Kirk, who is thenewest member tojoin the Regimental Canteen and KitShop Staff, has already been kept quite busy, as he took on the mammoth task of ordering new supplies and tools, and learning the trade to provide a service thatwill compliment thehigh quality which the soldiers ofTheRoyal Canadian Dragoons have come to expectfrom the Canteen and Kit Shop

56 ^efcmMtal Acuttem Met TCit ~ 2006-2007

Welcome to the Royal Canadian Dragoons Canteen and Kit Shop. Someone has once said, "The only thing constant is change." That axiom has not escaped the walls of the RCD Canteen/Kit shop. The year began with a little adjustment here a little move there to a climactic shift in how we do business and added a new dimension to the purpose of the Canteen/Kit shop. The four man crew led by Warrant Officer Bryant gallantly perused and conquered. Last year we moved our Kit shop to the far end of the building opening up the space in the old location. No sooner did this happen that ideas poured in to what this space will be used for. Perhaps storage, or the Officers Office, maybe a computer room, every week introduced a new idea. One thing was for certain, the room needed a facelift. So the crew, on top of numerous duties already at hand, was now given the challenge to patch-up, paint reorganize and do it by next week. No straws had to be picked as Cpl. Kirk stepped forward and spearheaded the project. Before he could get started, a new idea accompanied with new orders came in. This will now be the RCD computer lab and the room must be ready to move in furniture in two days. Well about a week later the furniture arrived closely followed by the computers. Since we have a computer room we might as well use it as a lecture room. The room was soon fitted with an electronic touch-screen white board. The RCD's now have an updated computer lab where all the members can have computer access for e-mail, language training, course lectures and so on. At the business end of the spectrum, WO Bryant has no shortage of hats as he takes on countless responsibilities above and beyond the Kit shop. Between the short 'zips' in and out of the shop he passes on the O Group and lays down new challenges for Cpl Ram who already has his hands full manning the day-today operation and keeping track of the finances. Cpl Risser has to be applauded for his dedication to take on any task and see it to completion. Without his humorous antics none of us would get through the day. What used to be a place to buy PT gear and a coffee a few years ago, has exploded into a variety shop, providing PT gear, memorabilia, Specialty field kit, summer and winter fashion and so much more. The canteen continues to provide daily lunch specials and has expanded the selection of flavoured coffees since its inauguration last year. Soldiers from other units, who visit while on course in the RCD lines, can be heard coveting the comfortable atmosphere, delicious hot dogs and the friendly service. The Royal Canadian Dragoons Canteen and Kit shop continues to grow and adapt to the changing needs of our service men and women.

57 Ml ci»MiMtoAcoe®

Dragoons,

As the 125''' Anniversary ofthefounding ofour Regiment approaches, we are preparing to highlight and celebrate the distinguished history ofour Regiment. It occurs to me that our Regimental service in Afghanistan since 2001 will, one hundred yearsfrom now, be viewed as a significant milestone in our histoiy. Given the outstanding work done by Dragoons in Afghanistan, whether on Op APOLLO, Op ATHENA or Op ARCHER, it is inevitable that those who carry our Guidon after us will view the Afghanistan mission as one more proud accomplishment ofthe Regiment. It is therefore important that the Regimentalfamily find a way to ensure that this service is appropriately commemorated.

I ask all Dragoons who have served in Afghanistan, independently or with the Regiment, to contribute one day's allowances for each tour ofservice or visit to Afghanistan, into a commemorationfund which will allow us to purchase a suitable artifact representing our Regimental service in Afghanistan. Thesefunds will be deposited with the Guild trust fund in a separate account, and allowed to accumulatefor the duration ofthe mission in Afghanistan (currentlyforecasted to last until 2009). At that point, an appropriate artifact will be commissioned.

1 expect that the decision on what type ofartifact should be commissioned will be the subject ofgreat discussion, however I have set the following guideline: the artifact must (1) represent all Dragoons who have served in theatre, regardless ofemployment; (2) be ofa lasting nature which will be preserved as part ofour rich Regimental heritage; (3) be suitablefor display in a location accessible by all ranks serving with the Regiment; and (4) be commissioned within one year ofthe mission in Afghanistan ending.

Thefirst deposits into thefund have been made by RSM Lee and myself, based upon the additional allowances we received during our visit to A Squadron in December 2006. Similarly, 1 ask that those who have ser\'ed or visited Afghanistan since 2001 consider donatingfunds based on service in that country. Ifyou are unable to determine what one day's allowances would have been, 1 would encourage you to consider making what you feel to be an appropriate donation, in order to allow us to properly commemorate your services to Canada during this campaign.

By having your donation deposited with the Guild ofthe RCD, your gift becomes a charitable donation, and you will receive a tax receiptfor the amount given. Any questions on this initiative can be directed towards the Regimental Second in Command at 613-687-5511 ext 5649. My thanks to all who contribute to this project, I lookforward to seeing your service honoured and memorializedforfuture generations ofDragoons.

S.M. Cadden Lieutenant-Colonel Commanding Officer

58 /\udax et feeler [^olcl and ^wift

General R.J. Hillier The Honourable Gordon O'Conner Lieutenant General W.J. Natynczyk CMM, MSG. CO PC, MR, OMM, CD CMM, MSG, CD Chief of the Defence Staff Minister of National Defence Vice Chief of the Defence Staff

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Calendar of Events

15 April 2008 - Leeuwarden

• Regimental Parade, CFB Petawawa

5 June 2008 - Ex CO I Ex RSM Mess Dinner.

• The Army Officers Mess, Ottawa, Ontario' • Discounted Room Rates at The Four Points by Sheraton Hotel & Conference Centre Gatineau-Ottawa"

7 June 2008 - 725"' RCD/RCR Anniversary Parade

• Joint RCD / Royal Canadian Regiment Parade, Parliament Hill, Ottawa, Ontario • Two 100 man guards in scarlets, with Guidon and Colour Parties • Post parade displays on Parliament Hill followed by an all ranks reception at Cartier Drill Hall'', Ottawa, Ontario 7 June 2008 - 725"' RCD Anniversary Gala Ball

• All ranks Gala Ball, Museum of Civilization'^. Hull, Quebec • Discounted Room Rates at The Four Points bv Sheraton Hotel & Conference Centre Gatineau-Ottawa

June - August 2008 - RCD Garrison Visits ?

• St Jean, Quebec; Borden. Ontario; Winnipeg, Alberta; Toronto, Ontario

6-8 November 2008 - Leliefontein f•

• Separate Officer and NCO Mixed Dining In • Regimental Parade

21 December 2008 -TfCD Regimental Birthday Notes:

1. 149 Somerset Street West, Ottawa. Ontario, K2P 0H7, (613) 236-0186. 2. 35 Rue Laurier. Gatineau. Quebec, J8X 4E9, (819) 778-611. Group agreement contract number to be confirmed. 3. 2 Queen Elizabeth Drive, Ottawa, Ontario, K1A 0K2 4. Museum of Civilization, 100 Laurier Street, Gatineau, Quebec, J8X4H2