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CrowsnestVol. 11, No. 1 Winter 2017 www.navy-marine.forces.gc.ca Generate Forward Enabling deployed RCN assets to provide strategic capability abroad

HMCS Vancouver sails near Kaikoura, New Zealand during earthquake relief operations. Photo: New Zealand Defence Force

By Darlene Blakeley “HMCS Windsor’s deployment The RCN is a globally deployable, proves once again the tremendous multi-mission capable enterprise t began as a multinational exer- capability and agility of ’s readily available to meet the strate- cise in the Norwegian Sea, but navy operating forward,” he says. gic priorities of the GoC both at Isoon turned into an unantici- The RCN calls the concept home and abroad. However, produc- pated real-world operational patrol “Generate Forward”, and it maxi- ing mission-ready force elements is in support of NATO. mizes the operational use of limited a complex process. The inherent Her Majesty’s Canadian personnel and materiel assets, con- nature of force generating personnel, Submarine Windsor had been par- ducting force generation abroad in equipment and training into combat- ticipating in Exercise Dynamic order to also be readily available in capable teams requires significant Mongoose with over 3,000 sailors strategic operations. A driving force resources and extended time at sea and air personnel from eight allied behind current and future planning, in order to be operationally ready. countries last summer when the call it allows RCN assets away from “Generating forward will leverage came to support a classified NATO home waters to work with partners the unique capabilities of our sailors operation. With the concurrence of in developing relationships, friend- and ships to conduct much more the Government of Canada (GoC), ships and ultimately trust. It also force generation further offshore Windsor was rapidly re-tasked and allows the RCN to be geographically than we have done in recent years, able to remain in theatre for an addi- close and therefore much more while concurrently providing a readily tional two weeks before returning quickly responsive to any GoC available RCN capability for achiev- home. directive to re-task an RCN asset as ing strategic GoC priorities, from a “This request, and Windsor’s quick a first responder in areas of the demonstration of military resolve to response, highlights the value that world where it might be needed. humanitarian assistance and disas- having a submarine already “The mission success of Windsor ter relief,” adds Capt(N) Josée Kurtz, deployed brings to Canada and its was directly attributable to the Director Naval Operations and Plans allies,” says Vice-Admiral Ron Lloyd, broad, balanced skill sets of our sail- at National Defence Headquarters in Commander Royal Canadian Navy ors, combined with the geographic Ottawa. (RCN). positioning of the submarine while it VAdm Lloyd was impressed with was conducting other activities,” Strategic pre-positioning of assets Windsor’s contribution to the major says Captain (Navy) Jamie Clarke, As to where RCN assets will exercise and the ease with which it Commander Canadian Submarine deploy at any given point in time, the transitioned to the new operation. Group. GoC provides overarching strategic

2 ROYAL CANADIAN NAVY www.navy-marine.forces.gc.ca direction through the Global contribute to relief operations. unit and individual training objectives Engagement Strategy (GES), which As part of a multinational naval through mutually beneficial training defines planning for priority regions task group, Vancouver contributed and exchange opportunities. Profes- and countries based on Global to the evacuation of approximately sional development opportunities for Affairs Canada advice. The 900 people and the delivery of more naval personnel are achieved Department of National Defence than 216 tonnes of food and emer- through bilateral training and then executes operational command gency supplies such as generators, exchanges during all Generate of assets and personnel congruent portable pumps and portable chemi- Forward activities. to the GES, and finally the RCN pro- cal toilets. The ship’s involvement in “Training and exchange opportuni- vides assets to meet these strategic earthquake relief efforts fell under ties maintain institutional credibility objectives. The exact location and Operation Renaissance, which is the by ensuring that naval personnel nature of employment for RCN rapid deployment of the Canadian acquire valuable at-sea operational resides with the Commander of the Armed Forces to the scene of a experience and advance training RCN, based on the advice of the disaster overseas, as directed by and qualifications at all levels,” says RCN Global Engagement team on the GoC. Capt(N) Mike Knippel, Commander his staff. When urgent events occur, As another example, an RCN sub- Naval Personnel and Training Group RCN assets will respond under the marine pre-positioned off the coast in Esquimalt, B.C. direction of the appropriate opera- of South America can provide the In the future, RCN strategic global tional authority. government with strategic response engagement, through the concept of Many of the RCN’s forces are options to intercept illicit trafficking. Generate Forward, will continue to capable of generating forward, “Time and space considerations expand and leverage the production depending upon the area of opera- are often detrimental to timely of mission-ready forces while facili- tions and the potential missions and response of naval forces and strate- tating Canada’s diplomatic relations tasks. While it will primarily apply to gic response options for the govern- and regional partnerships in support Halifax-class warships and Victoria- ment,” says Capt(N) Kurtz. “The of higher GoC strategic intent. And class submarines, specialized ele- RCN concept of Generate Forward while deployments such as ments including clearance divers, will help to mitigate these concerns Windsor’s can change on a dime, the Maritime Tactical Operations should the need arise.” others are planned. HMC Ships Group, and Naval Security Teams all Ottawa and Winnipeg will be con- have a role to play in creating Professional development ducting an Indo-Asia-Pacific deploy- opportunities for capacity building opportunities ment in 2017 employing the and maintaining readiness while Forward-deployed RCN assets Generate Forward concept with deployed in strategically important also provide an opportunity to inte- anticipated engagements in numer- regions of the world. grate with global partners, facilitating ous locations. “The strategic pre-positioning of RCN assets provides options in HMCS Windsor returns to Halifax after being response to any emerging crisis,” re-tasked during a NATO exercise. explains Capt(N) Kurtz. “The avail- ability of RCN ships as they conduct their tasks throughout the world can often be leveraged to support devel- oping emergency situations.” For example, Her Majesty’s Canadian Ship Vancouver was available at short notice to assist New Zealand following a 7.8 magni- tude earthquake that struck the South Island on November 14. Vancouver was in the vicinity of Auckland, NZ, at the time of the earthquake, preparing for a goodwill visit to celebrate the 75th anniversa- ry of New Zealand’s naval forces with other allied naval forces. At the request of the Government of New Zealand, the ship diverted to the region affected by the earthquake to Photo: DND Photo: www.navy-marine.forces.gc.ca ROYAL CANADIAN NAVY 3 Canadian sailor commands counter-terrorism task force

By Darlene Blakeley

or the second time in two years a Canadian naval offi- Fcer has taken command of Combined Task Force 150 (CTF 150), a counter-terrorism task force headquartered in Manama, Bahrain. Commodore Haydn C. Edmund- son officially assumed command of CTF 150 on behalf of Canada during a change of command cere- mony in December, taking over from DND Photo: Commander CTF 150, Commodore Haydn Edmundson, right, welcomes Cmdre Bilal Abdul Nasir of the Commander Cameron Steil of the Royal Australian Navy to Bahrain. Pakistan Navy. CTF 150 is one of three task the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, Arabian assigned to CTF 150.” forces under Combined Maritime Sea and Gulf of Oman. Canada has commanded CTF 150 Forces (CMF), a multinational “I am honoured and privileged to on two other occasions: once in naval partnership that promotes command this task force and to 2008 and most recently from security, stability and prosperity work alongside our maritime security December 2014 to April 2015. In across approximately 3.2 million partners in the wider region over the addition to these command periods, square miles of international waters, next four months,” says Cmdre Canada has provided contingents in encompassing some of the world’s Edmundson. “During Canada’s com- support of other countries. Recently, most important shipping lanes. All mand of CTF 150 we will contribute from December 2015 to April 2016, 31 partner nations participate volun- to broader efforts in the region by a Canadian contingent consisting of tarily. suppressing terrorist activity through five officers and two non-commis- The deployment is part of denying terrorist organizations the sioned members of the Royal Operation Artemis, the Canadian use of maritime routes to smuggle Canadian Navy (RCN) was Armed Forces’ (CAF) ongoing con- illicit cargo. This will be accom- deployed as part of CTF 150, and tribution to counter-terrorism and plished by commanding the ships five members of the RCN deployed maritime security operations across and personnel of partner nations to Bahrain to support CTF 150 from April to August 2016. Ships of CTF 150 promote security Working with Cmdre Edmundson and stability across 3.2 million square miles of international waters. in Bahrain are 28 CAF members and two civilians from the Depart- ment of National Defence (DND). In addition, there are eight personnel from the Royal Australian Navy working on the headquarters team, including the Deputy Commander, Captain (Navy) Paul Scott. According to Cmdre Edmundson, Canada has a responsibility to its citizens, allies and partners to help safeguard the high seas. “This is why the CAF assists in the protec- tion of international waters – to ensure that the legitimate global

Photo: Cpl Blaine Sewell Cpl Photo: trade that we depend on for the

4 ROYAL CANADIAN NAVY www.navy-marine.forces.gc.ca global economy can proceed without understanding of the regional mari- of HMCS Regina, he deployed to the threat of terrorist activities,” he time traffic picture and the overall the Far East in support of U.S. Navy explains. pattern of life on the high seas, 7th Fleet and Global Affairs Canada “Command of CTF 150 is also thereby enhancing operations. engagements in the Asia-Pacific important as it demonstrates our will- The new capability, called URSA, Region. ingness and ability to lead important or Unclassified Remote-Sensing “In July 2011, I hung up my dress missions with key allies and a range Situational Awareness, is a mobile, blues and donned desert tan cam- of regional partners. Partnering with deployable unit that allows for the ouflaged combats and deployed to like-minded countries provides an download of information directly Afghanistan for a year as part of opportunity for the CAF to participate from commercial satellites to a Canada’s Operation Attention,” he in multinational operations that ground station located in Bahrain. says. “I am once again wearing further enhance interoperability and Additionally, Operation Artemis desert tan camouflaged combats enables Canada to remain engaged will conduct regional leader engage- here in Bahrain, where I am proudly in, and aware of, regional activities ments and capacity building events serving with my team of Canadians and challenges.” alongside maritime security partners and Australians to counter terrorist Over the course of his four-month with a goal of enabling long-term organizations and their enablers.” deployment, Cmdre Edmundson will security and stability in the region Like most sailors who must bal- be leading international teams con- through enhanced maritime security ance work and home life, Cmdre ducting maritime security operations, capabilities that will address the Edmundson is well aware of the including the boarding of vessels and, challenge posed by terrorist net- load that families must bear while where appropriate, seizing illicit works. loved ones are deployed, especially cargo such as narcotics and weapons Cmdre Edmundson brings a over the holiday season. that is used to fund terrorist activities wealth of experience to his new “My family is very supportive of my globally. “Our goal is to deter and position as Commander CTF 150. career as a naval officer and under- deny these organizations the ability With over 30 years in the RCN, he stands the important work being to enable their activities through the has served in many ships through- done by the Government of Canada trafficking of illicit cargo,” he says. out the world. He spent three years and members of the CAF in this In addition, DND/CAF is bringing a working with the U.S. Navy in San important region of the world,” he new capability to CMF that will allow Diego, Calif., and also worked as says. “I am so very thankful for the it to share near real-time unclassified second-in-command of Her amazing support from my entire maritime domain awareness informa- Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) family, who deserve much credit for tion with CMF partner nations. With Calgary when it deployed to the their own dedication to our mission.” this capability, CMF members Arabian Sea in support of Operation Cmdre Edmundson will command will benefit from an improved Apollo in 2003. In 2008, as Captain CTF 150 until April.

CTF 150 conducts maritime security operations, including the boarding of vessels and, where appropriate, seizing illicit cargo such as narcotics and weapons. Photo: DND www.navy-marine.forces.gc.ca ROYAL CANADIAN NAVY 5 HMCS Brandon

Naval Reserve evolving into more strategic role

By Darlene Blakeley will take place over the next several The immediate goal is to transition months,” explains Lieutenant- the current crewing model as expe- he Naval Reserve is evolv- Commander Victoria DeVita, who ditiously and seamlessly as possi- ing in order to fulfill a more works in the Naval Personnel and ble, so that by 2019 the Kingston Tmodern, strategic role based Training Directorate at National Class will be crewed primarily by on augmenting the regular compo- Defence Headquarters in Ottawa. Regular Force personnel, with Naval nent of the Canadian Armed Forces “Once the transition is complete, fur- Reserve personnel augmenting the (CAF). An integral part of this pro- ther CTs will take place through the entire RCN surface fleet at a mini- cess will include an opportunity for CAF CT process with the expecta- mum of five per cent per unit. those currently serving in Class C tion that the opportunity to transfer Further, the new Naval Security (full-time) positions, or those who will be more open than it has been Team will be a focus for which a have served in Class C in the past in the past.” reservist can participate in-venue five years, to transfer to the Regular Within the RCN, the intent to take throughout the world. It will be com- Force more easily. on a more strategic role continues to posed primarily of naval reservists In keeping with the Chief of the be the raison d’être of the ongoing and will include a full-time command Defence Staff’s (CDS) direction for modernization of the Naval Reserve team to ensure personnel, training the Reserve component of the CAF structural review. Concurrent with and equipment are available for to be primarily a part-time organiza- this review is a change in the crew- deployment. The team’s task will tion, and Commander Royal ing model for Kingston-class mari- include port force protection and Canadian Navy’s (RCN) vision of time coastal defence vessels. host nation liaison, along with sup- the Naval Reserve, all reservists Since the introduction of this class port and intelligence requirements in Lieutenant-Commander and below in 1995, the Naval Reserve has foreign ports. (officers) and Petty Officer 1st Class been tasked with the crewing of The benefit to the Naval Reserve and below (non-commissioned these ships. This led to the develop- includes a definitive role in which to members) who are currently on ment of a cadre of full-time Class C augment the Regular Force. As Class C service or have had Class reservists who, for several years, such, training for all occupations C service in the past five years, will were able to meet manning require- has been realigned to Regular be invited to component transfer ments. However, in the long term, Force training where possible, and (CT) to the Regular Force. this force generation model proved new policies are being put into place “The transfer of these personnel to be unsustainable. to ensure that every ship at sea will

6 ROYAL CANADIAN NAVY www.navy-marine.forces.gc.ca deploy with reservists onboard. ing timelines. The overall goal will requirement to become a reservist. The past demand for the Naval be to enroll an applicant into the Once enrolled, further processes will Reserve to crew 10 ships, which Naval Reserve within three be required to determine the optimal was unsustainable without full-time weeks. occupation for them, and to allow personnel, is now gone and has “The aim of expedited enrollment training to commence. been replaced with manageable is to accelerate the process so that “For example,” says LCdr DeVita, short-term engagements on all plat- enthusiasm is maintained and “a sailor may be enrolled with an forms and in various deployable training can begin sooner,” explains enhanced reliability screening – a units throughout the surface fleet. LCdr DeVita. “The current process relatively quick process – and then As well, the CT process is being can be time consuming, sometimes be subject to a full security screen- updated and streamlined to taking up to several months to com- ing for their occupation after enrol- acknowledge and accommodate the plete for many good reasons. As ment.” training and commitment of reserv- such, recruitment suffers and poten- While she acknowledges there ists when and if they decide to con- tial applicants may look to other may be some risk involved in recruit- tinue with full-time service in the options for employment.” ing more quickly, such as applicants Regular Force. She adds that a quick, efficient found unacceptable medically post- and effective recruiting process is enrollment, LCdr DeVita says that Expedited enrollment crucial at this time as the Naval further investigation is under way to With the advent of a more stream- Reserve is actively expanding its determine how best to overcome lined CT process, there is renewed strength, as directed by the CDS and manage these challenges. focus on making changes to the and Commander RCN. “It is hoped that these new initia- Naval Reserve recruitment process. For those people interested in join- tives will enhance the capability of These potential changes mean that ing the Naval Reserve in the future, the RCN, while meeting the priorities future recruits could be enrolled it will mean a quicker enrollment of today’s fleet and preparing for the more quickly by shortening process- process, which streamlines the basic future fleet,” she says.

New policies are being put into place to ensure that every ship at sea will deploy with reservists onboard.

The new Naval Security Team will be a focus for naval reservists. Photos: DND Photos:

www.navy-marine.forces.gc.ca ROYAL CANADIAN NAVY 7 RCN prepares to celebrate Canada 150

By Darlene Blakeley waters from June 30 until August 20. Québec City, home of Canada’s regatta of tall ships. An inter- Naval Reserve Headquarters, will be A national tattoo. Naval boarding the main rallying point on the tour. party demonstrations. A navy bike The tall ship fleet, along with over ride. 3,000 crew members and youth These are just some of the events trainees, will be in the Port of 1867-2017 that will take place as the Royal Québec for a grand celebration from Canadian Navy (RCN) celebrates July 18 to 23. A host of free activities Le Havre, France. There will be the 150th anniversary of Confeder- is planned for families and visitors, stops in Portugal, Bermuda, the ation this year. Focussing on excit- showcasing local and national United States and Canada along the ing events from coast to coast, com- culture as well as Canada’s proud way. munity involvement will be a special maritime heritage. The tall ships are scheduled to part of the festivities. “RDV 2017 will bring Canadians to stop at 30 different ports in Ontario, “The RCN is proud to commemo- cities, towns and villages along the Québec and the Maritimes during rate Canada’s strong naval heritage St. Lawrence River and help to the tour, giving thousands of with Canadians from all back- promote a greater understanding of Canadians the opportunity to admire grounds as part of this year’s cele- these communities and the vital role the majestic beauty of these brations,” says Vice-Admiral Ron this iconic Canadian waterway cathedrals of the seas. Lloyd, Commander RCN. “As we played in the creation and mark this special year, we remem- development of our country,” says Canada Day at Canada Place ber and honour the bravery of gen- Lieutenant-Commander Kevin 2017 marks the 10th consecutive erations of sailors who fought to Jutras, Naval Reserve Coordinator year that Joint Task Force Pacific defend Canadian values at home for RDV 2017. and have and abroad.” The Québec City rallying point is participated in Canada Day at one stop along a transatlantic race Canada Place in Vancouver, the Rendez-vous 2017 of 7,000 nautical miles taking place largest Canada Day celebration out- A signature event marking over the course of five months in side the nation’s capital. celebrations will be Rendez-vous 2017. The race starts at the port of This year, a keepsake photo post- 2017 (RDV 2017), when more than Royal Greenwich in Great Britain on card of visitors with Canadian Armed 40 tall ships will be sailing Canadian April 13 and finishes in the port of Forces (CAF) members will provide a lasting memory, with the wording, Forty tall ships will sail Canadian waters this summer. “I’m celebrating Canada 150 with the Canadian Forces.” The CAF Zone will consist of 17 unit displays, a Halifax-class frigate and two Orca Patrol Craft Training ships. A Fun Force Fitness Test will challenge participants to test them- selves to see if they have the right stuff for the CAF. A fog-filled tent will allow participants to use a thermal imaging camera to find hidden per- sonnel. Visitors over 19 years of age can try the firearms training simula- tor. Live demonstrations will include the rarely seen naval boarding party demonstrations, performed on

Photo: Sail Training International Training Sail Photo: three custom-painted, stacked sea

8 ROYAL CANADIAN NAVY www.navy-marine.forces.gc.ca containers. Visitors will be able to try on a bomb suit and equipment used by the Maritime Tactical Operations Group – the specialized unit designed to manage high-risk threats at sea. The Canadian Army will provide a selection of vehicles as well as a forward operating base with a “selfie station” for guests. The will invite visitors to learn about search and rescue, and airframe maintenance. Over- head, two parachuting SkyHawks Zachariah Stopa Cpl Photo: will appear to be making their The Naden Band will be part of Canada 150 celebrations at Canada Place in Vancouver. approach over the CAF Zone. Visitors can attend one of several Ridge and the Halifax Explosion will while an additional two boats will live performances by the Naden also be commemorated. From the proceed from Hay River up the Band of Maritime Forces Pacific, bravery and courage exhibited by MacKenzie River to Tuktoyaktuk. one of which will provide musical soldiers at the battle of Vimy Ridge Using Joint Task Force North’s support for the live broadcast of a to the military personnel and first Operation Nunakput, an annual sur- citizenship ceremony, presided over responders rushing to help after the veillance and presence operation, by Rear-Admiral Art McDonald, Halifax Explosion, Canadian history as a backdrop, the RCN will gain Commander Joint Task Force and honour will be on full display. valuable insight into small boat inter- Pacific. The RCN will have a strong pres- nal water operations and Canadian ence at the Tattoo with the Ranger cooperation. Sailors will cel- Royal Nova Scotia International Stadacona and Naval Reserve ebrate Canada 150 as modern-day Tattoo bands on hand, and will proudly voyageurs of Canada’s internal The 2017 Royal Nova Scotia showcase its Maritime Tactical waters. International Tattoo (RNSIT), held in Operations Group. The navy will These signature events are just a Halifax from June 29 to July 6, will also compete in the ever popular sample of what the RCN has also be a signature event in support CAF Obstacle Race. planned for the year, as a host of of the Canada 150 celebrations. other events will be held in commu- Approximately 295 personnel, Navy Bike Ride nities across the country from ships’ including 50 cadets, will be As part of its Canada 150 visits to maritime galas to participa- employed in support of this year’s celebrations in the National Capital tion in the Invictus Games. event. Region, the RCN will be hosting the “This is an exciting time to be a “The RNSIT is a public spectacle inaugural Navy Bike Ride. It will take Canadian and part of the navy,” which provides the CAF the opportu- place May 20 with the option of says VAdm Lloyd. “We have many nity to showcase personnel and their doing either a 10km ride or 30km wonderful activities planned for this specialized skills,” says LCdr Sidney ride around downtown Ottawa and special year, and I hope that all Green, Executive Officer RNSIT. “As in Gatineau Park. Registration is Canadians will have the chance to this is a multinational event, it also open to both avid and recreational celebrate this milestone alongside provides the opportunity to build cyclists of all ages. members of the RCN.” upon already established relation- “There are many avid cyclists ships with not only the community, within the navy community, myself but with other nations as well.” included, and I look forward to lead- This is an This year’s Tattoo will be one of ing the first-ever Navy Bike Ride the biggest yet as it celebrates how through Canada’s Capital Region exciting Canada’s diverse landscape and during our nation’s 150th birthday,” culture define the nation on its 150th says VAdm Lloyd. time to be a birthday. “From the moment the Canadian and opening note rings out and until the MacKenzie River Run final note fades, the Tattoo will rec- In the North, the RCN will operate part of the ognize Canada as the strong nation small boats on Great Slave Lake in it is,” says LCdr Green. July. Two boats will potentially cir- “navy. The 100th anniversaries of Vimy cumnavigate Great Slave Lake, www.navy-marine.forces.gc.ca ROYAL CANADIAN NAVY 9 Attendees join Vice-Admiral Ron Lloyd, Commander of the Royal Canadian Navy, at the Honorary Captain (Navy) Symposium, held recently in Ottawa. Honorary Naval Captains bring the navy to Canadians

By Lieutenant-Commander Kathleen brings to the RCN a set of unique of the HCapt(N) program, candi- Casby talents and skills, a keen desire to dates are appointed by the Minister contribute, and specific goals that he of National Defence (MND). This rawn from the ranks of or she may wish to achieve in sup- process requires each candidate to DCanadians who have distin- port of the RCN’s outreach and pub- be formally nominated, complete guished themselves in private or lic engagement objectives. They with background and social media public life, Honorary Naval Captains work to establish and maintain con- checks and finally, endorsement by (HCapts(N)) are the ambassadors of nections between the RCN and the Commander of the RCN prior to the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN). community leaders – links that the consideration by the MND. The HCapts(N) support the RCN’s RCN may not have been able to duration of an HCapt(N) appoint- ongoing outreach and engagement forge on its own. These connections ment is normally three years; how- efforts to educate and inform can help broaden the RCN’s influ- ever, extensions are granted on a Canadians about their navy, its roles ence among opinion leaders and case-by-case basis. and contributions to national securi- influencers at a variety of local, It is an experience unlike any ty, and, through their personal influ- regional and national levels. other, according to HCapt(N) Colin ence and networks, help reinforce HCapts(N) can assist with out- Robertson, who was appointed in the RCN’s key stakeholder relation- reach into diverse communities and 2010 but had already come to real- ships. create opportunities for, and attend, ize the value of the RCN through his The last 30 years have seen many special events, community projects 33 years as a diplomat in the foreign distinguished Canadians appointed and celebrations (receptions service. as HCapts(N), including television onboard ships, parades and inspec- “I had served in port cities – New personalities, prominent academics, tions) related to the RCN, including York, Hong Kong, Los Angeles and community leaders, and executives those that support sailors and their then Washington – and I had devel- from all manner of business and families. They also work to support oped a keen appreciation of the industry. The visibility they bring to the community relations efforts of RCN through port visits. The deck of the RCN and the pride that the men local and regional Naval Reserve a warship is a superb place to enter- and woman of the navy feel in their Divisions and Sea Cadet Corps tain key contacts and to underline HCapts(N) provide an important link across the country. They proudly that Canada is a reliable ally and between the RCN and the communi- wear an RCN uniform at these trusted partner,” says HCapt(N) ties in which they are based. The events. Robertson. HCapts(N) continue a century-long Each HCapt(N) is assigned an “While I could not sail a ship or tradition of service and are just as RCN affiliated formation or unit, with run an engine, I realized I had a important today as when the pro- which they develop an important useful skill – strategic communica- gram first began. strategic relationship. tions – that served the RCN,” he Every HCapt(N) across Canada Given the importance and visibility continues. “A day touring the base

10 ROYAL CANADIAN NAVY www.navy-marine.forces.gc.ca at Halifax made me realize that Carleton, the Naval Reserve daily life at sea and get a glimpse everyone in the RCN has a skill and Division in Ottawa. into how the RCN defends Canada. that the culmination of these skills is “The two things that have struck “It was a phenomenal experience, greater than the individual talents. me most since becoming an to not only see but to participate in Put together you have a powerful HCapt(N) are the professionalism shipboard exercises, specifically the capacity. I am continually impressed and sense of family in the Canadian battle damage scenario that includ- by the camaraderie, professionalism Navy,” says HCapt(N) Nanos. “Being ed firefighting and casualty clearing, and pride in service of all who assigned to HMCS Carleton has as well the weapons shoots,” says serve.” been a great introduction and wel- HCapt(N) Paddon. “Experiencing the The RCN’s four newest HCapts(N) come into the navy family and to sheer power of the ship and its recently joined this esteemed cadre see the commitment and positive capacity to defend our borders is of Canadians, bringing a wealth of atmosphere in the Reserve ranks surpassed only by the leadership knowledge and experience with has been really rewarding. In my and professionalism shown by the them. field we measure and gauge the officers and sailors on board. I could Vancouver Island-based hotelier opinions of Canadians on a daily not have been more proud to wear Mandy Farmer is the current basis, so I’m proud to bring that the uniform as an HCapt(N) that President and CEO of Accent Inns skillset to the RCN, in order to pro- week.” Inc., a family-run hospitality compa- mote and champion the navy. Our The most recent HCapt(N), ny. Her well-established position as sailors from top to bottom stand tall appointed just before Christmas an entrepreneur has also enabled in my eyes and it is a privilege to be 2016, is David Labistour, the current her to become a leader and part of the RCN.” CEO of Mountain Equipment Co-op, community advocate for sports, the HCapt(N) Tom Paddon was Canada’s specialty retailer of out- environment and tourism in British appointed in September 2016, affili- door lifestyle, travel gear and sport- Columbia. In only six months as an ated with Canadian Fleet Atlantic. ing goods. HCapt(N), she has already sailed in The current chairman of Baffinland Each Honorary appointee is up to HMCS Ottawa and aided in promot- Iron Mines Corporation, he is recog- the challenge of helping bring the ing both the RCN and Canadian nized in the north as an entrepre- RCN’s message to Canadians. This Forces Base Esquimalt, B.C., (her neur, leader and community advo- highly successful program has prov- affiliated unit) to Canadians. cate. Highly active with organiza- en to be one of the RCN’s best tools HCapt(N) Nik Nanos is another tions that benefit northern activities in ensuring that even those living far recent addition to the Honorary ros- and economic development, from a coast have the opportunity to ter. The current President and CEO HCapt(N) Paddon is widely acknowl- learn more about Canada’s navy of Nanos Research, the market edged as being a subject matter and its role in maintaining peace research company he founded while expert on Canada’s Arctic foreign and security for all Canadians. still an undergraduate student at policy. He recently sailed in HMCS A full list of currently serving Queen’s University in 1987, his drive Ville de Québec as part of the HCapts(N) can be found at navy- and dedication led him to become Canadian Leaders at Sea program, marine.forces.gc.ca/en/about/in- an HCapt(N) affiliated with HMCS where he was able to experience depth-hcapts.page

Honorary Captain (Navy) Tom Paddon departs Halifax Harbour aboard HMCS Ville de Québec. Photos: DND Photos: www.navy-marine.forces.gc.ca ROYAL CANADIAN NAVY 11 RCN adopts redesigned command badge

By Darlene Blakeley

he Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) has adopted a redesigned command badge T The redesigned command badge, left, alongside the original badge. that better reflects both the current RCN makeup and its traditional identity. “The redesigned command badge recognizes our heritage The original badge was adopted in and many years of proud RCN service.” 1968 with the stand-up of Maritime Command after unification. It has badge recognizes our heritage and And while the RCAF design been out of date since 2011 when many years of proud RCN service,” element of the eagle has been the historic names of the Canadian says Dr. Rich Gimblett, the RCN’s removed from the new RCN com- Armed Forces’ (CAF) three services Command Historian. “It takes its mand badge, Dr. Gimblett says it – the RCN, the Canadian Army (CA) core inspiration from the pre-unifica- will continue to be a central part of and the Royal Canadian Air Force tion command badge.” the Canadian Naval Ensign (flag) (RCAF) – were restored. The redesigned command badge flown aboard warships. “Like the return to our historic incorporates the following modifica- “The eagle is inappropriate on the name, the redesigned command tions: command badge as the RCN does ♦ The background light “air force” not maintain an air branch within the blue has been replaced with dark command anymore,” explains Dr. What is a badge? navy blue, which matches the pre- Gimblett. “However, continued unification badge and better reflects incorporation of the eagle on the A badge is a distinctive sign, the RCN’s traditional blue; Canadian Naval Ensign is entirely symbol or emblem used to visu- ♦ The central device (anchor) has appropriate because our warships ally identify a military organiza- been flattened to reflect the device are CAF assets and the embarked tion and foster the pride and found on the pre-unification badge RCAF air detachments historically cohesiveness necessary for and for consistency with the anchor have been, and are expected to operational effectiveness. Official found on the CAF badge. Also, the remain, critical elements of their badges formally identify an indi- eagle has been removed to better combat capability.” vidual branch, formation or unit, reflect the RCN’s current makeup; The introduction of a redesigned and the primary badge of each and command badge follows a number organization is personally ♦ The motto, “Ready Aye Ready”, of other important changes in recent approved by the Governor already translated for common use years that recognize the importance General as the Commander-in- in French as “Toujours là, toujours of the RCN’s history and origins. Chief of the Canadian Armed prêts”, has been translated to the These include restoring the Execu- Forces. Latin “Parati Vero Parati” for consis- tive Curl for naval officers in 2010; Navy primary badges evolved tency with the army and air force reinstating the command’s historic from ship figureheads and badges. The English and French name in 2011; and in 2013 autho- unofficial insignia. In Canadian translations will be used below the rizing warships to fly a distinctive service, they were centrally badge where appropriate. Canadian Naval Ensign, consistent regulated based on the use of For uniformity within the CAF, the with standard Commonwealth naval redesigned command badge retains practices. common badge frames and ship the standard CAF command badge “These changes have not only livery colours beginning in the style with a central circular rope been well received, but have quickly middle of the 20th century. surround and maple leaves become part of our core identity and clustered at the bottom. pride of service,” says Dr. Gimblett.

12 ROYAL CANADIAN NAVY www.navy-marine.forces.gc.ca Lifelong friends sail the seas together By Captain Rick Donnelly

ad you asked friends Master Seaman Donald Merlo or HLeading Seaman Zachery Warwick as children what they would be when they grew up, you might have received the standard answer: police officer, firefighter, or perhaps even professional athlete. Never would either have guessed that they would find themselves sailing on the high seas as crew members aboard a Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) warship. Even less likely would they have believed they would end up doing it together. Throughout this past autumn, both MS Merlo and LS Warwick sailed Master Seaman Donald Merlo, right, and Leading Seaman Zachery Warwick stand together aboard Her Majesty’s Canadian aboard HMCS Brandon while deployed on an operational tour. Ship (HMCS) Brandon on a lengthy operational tour in foreign waters. military to grow on LS Warwick, as everything that was involved and the Lifelong friends and athletic rivals, he recalls it. “I went to basic training people that he met,” says MS Merlo. it was LS Warwick who first found in the summer of 2006, and I hated “I knew then that I wanted to do it. himself in a navy uniform. it. It was tough,” he says. “The thing I’m sure Zach didn’t expect me “I joined the navy first in 2006. I I liked about it was the people I met. to do it, and I’m certain he didn’t was looking for a job, something dif- I met people from all over the place, expect we’d be serving on the same ferent,” he says. “I had originally many of whom are still really good ship 10 years later, but here we decided I wanted to be a Naval friends today. The bonds you create are.” Combat Information Operator. My through difficult times together are So convinced was MS Merlo that mom actually talked me out of that. really strong.” a life in the navy was the way to go, She thought the best thing for me It was LS Warwick’s passion for he convinced a large circle of friends would be to learn how to cook. She the bonds of service that convinced to join along with him, or so he said ‘mama’s not going to be able to MS Merlo that a life in the navy was thought. His friends, a group of 10, feed you forever, so you’ve got to for him as well. made a pact to join the navy togeth- learn how to cook it yourself.’” “Zach easily convinced me to join er. The end result, as MS Merlo It took a while for life in the the navy after telling me about remembers it, was somewhat differ- ent. “The plan was for me and nine of my friends to go away for basic training that summer, but I was the only one who did,” says MS Merlo. “But it worked out for the best for me, it really did. It got me to where I am today. I couldn’t thank Zach more for introducing me to that type of work. The military has been good to me.” Fast forward 10 years, and while MS Merlo and LS Warwick never lost touch, they also never had the opportunity to work together. They Photos: DND Photos: Master Seaman Donald Merlo, Chief Botswain’s Mate aboard HMCS Brandon, directs work would see each other on the jetty around the ships’ rigid-hulled inflatable boat. occasionally, and had a number of www.navy-marine.forces.gc.ca ROYAL CANADIAN NAVY 13 common friends throughout the col- lection of ships harboured at CFB Esquimalt, the navy base near Victoria, B.C. Being able to serve together on the same ship, however, just didn’t seem to be in the cards. That all changed in autumn 2016. Both were selected to hold key positions aboard the same ship dur- ing an operational tour, and despite the odds, with three ships being tasked to sail on the mission (the others being HMC Ships Edmonton and Kingston, the latter based out of Halifax), fate would finally reunite the friends. They would sail together aboard HMCS Brandon. MS Merlo had just completed Leading Seaman Zachery Warwick, Chief Cook aboard HMCS Brandon, prepares a barbecue training that would prepare him to for the crew. take on a Chief Boatswain’s Mate position aboard a ship sometime in learned just shortly before departing when we joined the navy, but there the future when he learned that that he would be thrust into the top we were, as Chief Cook and Chief “sometime” had just become “imme- position for his profession aboard a Boatswain’s Mate. Now that the trip diately”. ship. is done, I still have a hard time “I expected to be shadowing my “Shortly before this trip, my com- believing it. I keep thinking ‘did that previous Chief Boatswain’s Mate in mand team asked me how I felt about actually happen?’ Donny was a mentoring kind of scenario,” says being the chief cook for this mission,” always right there for me. At the end MS Merlo. “That’s not the deck of says LS Warwick. “I felt pretty confi- of the day, it was a great feeling cards I was dealt. I was dealt right dent in myself, both in my cooking knowing I had someone there with into an operational mission. When skills and my leadership abilities. It’s me that I had known for years.” they said ‘Congratulations MS been a unique challenge leading a As for MS Merlo, while the goal of Merlo, you’re going to be the Chief team that includes members who the mission was the driving factor Boatswain’s Mate in HMCS have served longer or have perhaps behind his work, at least on a per- Brandon’, my stomach dropped. I experienced more than I have.” sonal level, it was about something walked out, called home, and then With the mission now behind them, more. immediately started preparing for the both LS Warwick and MS Merlo “He’s my best friend. We’re not mission.” reflect positively on their experience just friends in uniform, we’re friends The Chief Boatswain’s Mate posi- together. While both are proud of in life,” he says. “There are times tion on a ship can best be described what the mission accomplished, both during the mission where you are as the deck quarterback. They run spoke from a more personal perspec- pushed really hard. You feel like you the show, from launching Zodiac tive. are on your knees. To have your boats from the ship to coordinating “It was comforting knowing that I best buddy there to pick you up… weapons shoots. When they talk, had someone there with me who I there aren’t really words to explain people listen. knew would always have my back,” that kind of bond. He believed in LS Warwick’s preparation time for says LS Warwick. “I never thought me, and I believed in him. What the mission was also brief, as he we’d find ourselves in these positions more can you ask for in a friend?”

Senior Advisor Crowsnest is published on the authority of the Commander Royal Commander Kris Phillips Canadian Navy, Vice-Admiral Ron Lloyd. Comments are welcome and Head, Navy Public Affairs can be sent to: Navy Public Affairs Senior Editor and Writer National Defence Headquarters Darlene Blakeley 11ST, 101 Colonel By Dr., K1A 0K2 Navy Public Affairs or [email protected] For the online version of this publication and for more information about the Royal Canadian Navy, visit www.navy-marine.forces.gc.ca. Cover page: HMCS Kingston sails in the Caribbean Sea. Photo: 12 Wing Shearwater If you would like an email subscription to Crowsnest, send your request to [email protected] to be added to our list.

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