RCEME Journal

Summary of RCEME 2021 RCEME 6 Concept Paper RCEME 2021 and the 2021 8 Ammunition Engineer

15 The 10th Annual Western Area Table of contents RCEME Hockey Traditions and History 15 The Iltis Project 23 RCEME Officers in Camp Bordon, Hampshire, United Kingdom Regimental Command 16 Regimental Dinner in Ottawa on the 70th Anniversary of the Corps of 24 The Kingsmill Bridge: RCEME at 4 Transition to the Army of War in Italy. Daring Innovative Exploits Tomorrow RCEME Under Fire 5 RCEME 2021: Let’s Continue 16 Visit to the North Bay Moving Forward Together With New Maintenance Section 25 Highlighting RCEME’s Heritage Technologies! 16 RCEME Corps Members 6 Col Cmdt’s Adieu Stationed at St. John, Newfoundland 17 5 Svc Bn Wins Gold in Hockey at the 5 CMBG Winter Games Learning and Action 17 RCEME School Apprentice Platoon Attend Annual Colonel Karen Ritchie Memorial Curling Bonspiel

Trade Section 26 Leo 2 ARV CAN Commissioning Ceremony 18 History of the Electronic Optronic Technician - Land Member Portraits 19 Machine Gun Swing Mount Project Contract Award 27 In Memory of Ann-Marie Sturgess 8 RCEME Common Course 0022 - Sault Ste. Marie Awards and Recognitions 9 Ex MAINT WANDERER 28 Director RCEME’s National, 10 Craftsman’s Cup Competition Regional and Cadet Award Winners 2014 29 Director RCEME’s Coin of 11 Op Distinction - Normandy Excellence

What’s Up? Columns 12 In the Land of Winter 30 Last Call 20 Cracks, Cracks, and More Cracks 30 RCEME Regiment Governance 12 2014 Army Run 21 10 Years of OWSS 13 RCAF Celebrates RCEME Day 21 TLAV Updates 14 A Joyful Return 22 QETE RAMD Trials of TAPV 14 March for Valcartier’s 100th Anniversary

Graphic Design - Cover page: Marie-France Chrétien Picture on cover page: MCpl Dan Pop, Public Affairs, Canadian Army, LX2013-002-050, http://www.combatcamera.forces.gc.ca RCEME Journal - Edition 2 - 2014 | 3 Regimental Command Director RCEME’s Message Transition to the Army of Tomorrow

Colonel K.J. Hamilton, Director RCEME

The importance dedicated and devoted Corps members of his contributions to our Corps. I have of history and to ensure RCEME remains strong, proud, had the pleasure of working with BGen heritage within and relevant as we transition to the (ret’d) Holt many times throughout my our great Army of Tomorrow, focused on Adaptive career and have experienced firsthand his country ensures Dispersed Operations (ADO). This is not heartfelt pride and admiration for each the lessons of our past persevere and help a responsibility that is executed alone and of you. His dedication and undaunting guide us through the challenges which without the indispensable council of the RCEME spirit have touched many of you will be faced in the years that follow. The Corps SM and Corps Staff, whose tireless and on behalf of The Corps of RCEME same is true for The Corps of RCEME as efforts ensure that the Corps remains and all its members I would like to thank we capture, promote, and acknowledge engaged in all strategic level issues and him for his service to the Corps. He the sacrifice and dedication of the many at the forefront of change, the Corps of will be sincerely missed. I would also RCEME technicians and officers who have RCEME’s indisputable reputation as like to welcome Colonel (ret’d) Andrew served and continue to serve, celebrating leaders within the CAF would not be Nellestyn, who I have had the distinct their achievements and capturing the achievable. I would like to thank Col honour and pleasure of working with Col essence of what it is to be RCEME. The Bouchard for his leadership as your (ret’d) Nellestyn in the past and know Corps of RCEME faces every challenge Corps Director during the past year. His that he is overwhelmingly devoted to with pride and distinction, using these personal sacrifice to foster and advance the Corps. A historian, author, devoted opportunities to foster our esprit de many Corps of RCEME initiatives and officer to the Corps and a consummate corps and demonstrate our capacity and activities across Canada demonstrated, professional, Col (ret’d) Nellestyn will competence to lead. Leadership is the yet again, the strength of our Corps. I continue the great work accomplished cornerstone of The Corps of RCEME, it is know that you will join me in thanking by those before him. He is eager to what makes us who we are and why the him and wishing him the best in his future commence his role as your Col Cmdt and values of our Corps resonate within the endeavors. I know that you will join me in welcoming Canadian Armed Forces leadership. Col (ret’d) Nellestyn. This year also marks another significant On 9 July 14, the responsibility to transition for the Corps, as we bid Over the past month as your Director of continue the important work of the farewell to our long-standing Colonel RCEME, I have been truly inspired by the many previous Corps Directors was Commandant, BGen (ret’d) Peter Holt, dedication and drive of so many within passed to me. I am humbled at having who after six very busy years as our our Corps. We are unified in our intent been selected and entrusted to be your Colonel Commandant will hand the and purpose and we are recognized for Corps Director. I have had the pleasure reins to Colonel (ret’d) Andrew Nellestyn. our professionalism and skill within and honour of commanding within our BGen (ret’d) Holt has crisscrossed the Army, but also within the greater Corps, taught many valuable lessons Canada many times during his tenure as Canadian Armed Forces community. We by our soldier-technicians, and gained Col Cmdt, never shying away from an may be smaller than other Corps, but indispensable knowledge from our senior opportunity to foster our rich traditions we are deeply respected for our tenacity, NCOs. The weight of this responsibility with the Corps family and greater competence, and leadership. These traits is difficult to put into words, but know that community. His personal connection with will guide me through my tenure as your I will continue to foster all things RCEME so many of our young soldier-technicians Director. and leverage the efforts of so many has been inspirational and a true hallmark

Editorial Team The Journal of The Corps of RCEME

Editor-in-chief Col K.J. Hamilton, CD Corps Formation May 15, 1944 Managing Editor Col A. Benson, CD Corps Motto Arte et Marte Editors M-F Chrétien, A A.-Bélanger Corps Patron Saint Saint Jean de Bréboeuf Corps Information O Maj J. Motl Corps Colonel Cmdt Col (Ret’d) A. Nellestyn, OStJ, PhD, Graphic Design Marie-France Chrétien BEng, P.Eng, CD Editing Team Capt A. Henderson, M. Lépine, Corps Director Col K.J. Hamilton, CD Adjuc R. Gilbert, Maj J. Motl, M.F. Chrétien Corps Sergeant Major CWO J.G.R. Gilbert, CD Distribution Annie A.-Bélanger

4 | RCEME Journal - Edition 2 - 2014 Regimental Command RCEME Corps Sergeant Major’s Message RCEME 2021: Let’s Continue Moving Forward Together With New Technologies!

CWO J.G.R. Gilbert, RCEME Corps Sergeant Major

We can all see that new technologies are advancing very rapidly and it’s becoming more and more difficult for our technicians to keep all this sophisticated equipment in operational condition.

Just think of all the gadgets we have routines. As always, I’ve had the privilege welcome Col Hamilton, who was selected nowadays from modern cell phones, this year again of seeing a great many of you to become our next Director of The Corps of to powerful computers that give you during our visits to your positions. I would RCEME. With his experience and in-depth information and references in a few seconds like to thank you for the excellent work you knowledge, he will continue the excellent with next to no effort, to ultra-detailed do on a daily basis, and I can guarantee work already begun to keep the Corps of navigation systems. Where will we be in you that our Corps of RCEME is very highly RCEME moving straight ahead. 2021, or in 2030? In my opinion, even regarded within the CAF. further ahead than we are today with new Keep up the good work: technologies. Technicians of The Corps of you are all top-notch RCEME will have to stay well-informed and ambassadors, and the abreast of these new technologies if they want success we’re enjoying is to continue serving the CAF as technicians. largely because of you. Since 1944, with our multiple talents, our dedication and our perseverance, we have The Corps of RCEME been able to honour our motto, By Skill and presented to Col Bouchard By Fighting, by keeping all these pieces of the commander’s equipment operational. We’ve never given pennant on 9 July, up in the past, and even with these new emphasizing the excellent technologies we’ll keep on doing it right. work he did during his And who knows, perhaps in 10 years time year as Director of the we’ll have super technicians with amazing Corps of RCEME. We qualifications in our trades. Time isn’t going have made further strides to slow down for us; we simply have to under his leadership, and On 9 July 2014, RCEME Officers, Sr NCOs, adjust to this reality and do what it takes to his contribution to the retired members and distinguished guests from be ready for these future challenges. Corps has been greatly around the National Capital Region (NCR) appreciated. On behalf of gathered at the Army Officers Mess in Ottawa 2014 was a pretty busy year for The all members of The Corps to witness the official handover of Director Corps of RCEME. We celebrated our of RCEME, I would like RCEME responsibilities from Col Sébastien 70th anniversary on 15 May and we also to thank him and also Bouchard to Col Kelby Hamilton. This launched the project for our museum in wish him good luck in ceremony was overseen by the Corps Col Cmdt, Kingston. Many of you have been posted or the coming year at the BGen (Ret’d) Peter Holt, and was followed by promoted in new positions, and you’ve had Canadian Forces College luncheon where members had an opportunity to to adjust. I hope that as you’re reading these in Toronto. By the same congratulate both the outgoing and incoming lines you’ve already settled into your new token, I would like to Director RCEME

Call for Articles, 1st Edition 2015

Theme for next edition : Training We invite you to send your articles and photos relating to the above mentioned theme or categories (maximum of 500 words). Please send your photos in a distinct JPEG file format rather than directly in the ‘‘MS Word’’ document used for the text. The photos must be at least 300 dpi (dot per inch), and 5’’x7’’ of size or more to qualify for the cover page. The author of the article and people portrayed in the photos must be identified at the end of the article as follows: Rank, initials, last name, trade and unit. Deadline for submitting your article is January 16, 2015. We reserve the right to select articles and to modify the texts according to the space available. External email: [email protected] Internal email: +EME Journal@202DA@Montreal

RCEME Journal - Edition 2 - 2014 | 5 Regimental Command

Colonel Commandant’s Adieu

BGen (ret’d) Peter Holt, OMM, CD

I would like a strong foundation – and an excellent ‘wrench benders’, ‘grease monkeys’ or to take this esprit de corps. ‘parts changers’, but we do so with great opportunity respect because they are very valued to say RCEME’s performance and high esprit members of our team. So valued, we farewell and de corps have been highly praised by encourage them to wear our coveted thank you to the many unit, Brigade and Wing/Base black beret.” all members of The Corps of RCEME as commanders I have met. For example, I prepare to step down as your Colonel here are the words of my old friend MGen This is what has made my job as your Commandant. It has been a busy and (ret’d) Cam Ross, Col of the Regt, in the Col Cmdt so easy: our work is known and eventful six years since I was appointed recent LdSH Spring 2014 Regimental appreciated everywhere. What Gen Ross on 1 September 2008 – for a three year Newsletter: “Strathconas have always has said for the Strathconas I have heard term! As often happens in the Army, the had a special place in their heart for the echoed across the Army, on RCAF Wings, plan changed in 2011 and I was fortunate Regimental Maintenance Troop. Without and even in Halifax and Esquimalt. So to extend for another three years. their skill and dedication, armoured if I have any parting words of wisdom troops could not do their job. And on after 45 years of service to the Corps, The most important part of this the battlefield, a gun that doesn’t fire they would be the following: “Our true appointment for me has been the accurately, a radio that goes down, or a strength lies in the skill, determination and opportunity to meet so many of you in my tank that stops due to poor maintenance “let’s get it done” attitude of everyone in travels around Canada and abroad. And can cost lives”. He goes on to say: The Corps of RCEME, from Craftsman to as we prepare for the future with RCEME “While crewmen rest, the maintainers General.” 2021, let us not forget the past 70 years slug away until the tank, recce vehicle, or of proud history that have given us such vital echelon truck is fixed. We call them

Theme: RCEME 2021 Summary of RCEME 2021 Concept Paper

Maj Kevin Ramsay, SSO RCEME, DGLEPM

With the Canadian Army (CA) adopting Land Ops 2021 doctrine, The Corps of RCEME will need to change our doctrine to remain relevant. Below is a summary of the RCEME 2021 Concept Paper, which was distributed this summer.

Combat operations in Afghanistan clearly and engineering amongst RCEME officers and the emergence of new threats have demonstrated that the Army now relies and senior technicians serving within the led to the identification of a need for on, is surrounded by and must defend army’s operational units and formations an integrated family of future combat itself against increasingly complex and has become inevitable. vehicles. The Land Ops 2021 force diverse weapon systems. In order to fully employment concept calls for weapon adapt to the strengths and weaknesses The changing nature of conflicts and systems that are fewer in number but of technology and allow commanders weapon systems technologically complex and capable of at all levels to make maximum use of The changing nature of conflicts and adapting to changing threats. the technological advances of their weapon systems sheds light on the equipment, the CA will have to adapt existence of an ever-growing level of culturally to the new technological reality technological complexity and increased Emergence of an Army equipment and the Corps of RCEME will have to reliance on the technology for operational culture reposition itself. To this end, the CA must success. Figure 1 is a graphic representation of adopt an equipment culture. Moreover, the relationship between technological the introduction of new responsibilities, This new concept, the trend toward complexity and dependence on technology authorities and technological expertise increasingly advanced technologies, for each element of the Canadian Armed

6 | RCEME Journal - Edition 2 - 2014 Theme: RCEME 2021

Forces. The equipment used will allow us to review by today’s army is based on equipment performance systems that are not only to understand its technologically comparable capabilities and with the most sophisticated limitations. systems used by the other elements but will also • Design - become increasingly similar Contribute to the design as a result of joint needs and of future developments. interoperability. Given a context in which the tactical experience Although some units and of RCEME leaders will regiments place particular include more engineering importance on their experience, it will be weapon systems, the Army increasingly essential to as a whole does not have implement a process for a strong equipment culture. Figure 1 - Positioning of CAF elements based on complexity of and gathering and analysing dependence on technology technical observations, The equipment culture and assimilating and principles that apply to RCEME are: battlespace intelligence, the terrain sharing the lessons learned. estimate and the administrative estimate, • senior RCEME staff must have extensive the ECCE makes it possible to formulate The transformation in question will be knowledge of the weapon systems used an effective tactical and operational plan more cultural than technical in nature. in the units they serve; that is better adapted to the operations In fact, it will involve building on the • senior RCEME staff must be able to that are underway. already very high level of knowledge that advise the chain of command on the our senior vehicle, weapons, electronic/ capabilities of and risks associated with • Adapt and customize - Lead optronic and materials technicians the unit’s equipment, and contribute on equipment modification and possess, in order to foster a general a technical level to mission operational reconfiguration from a tactical understanding of the technical capabilities planning; and perspective to ensure optimal operational of the equipment from the perspective of • RCEME staff must be able to adapt and readiness for the next mission. With mobility, lethality and survivability. maximize the effectiveness of the unit’s the advent of Adapative Dispersed equipment for the next mission. Operations (ADO), senior technicians What will RCEME of tomorrow look like and officers will have to ensure that their organizationally? The new approach New tactical responsibilities for The commanders are able to exploit the full should not involve a change to the Corps of RCEME spectrum of technological advancement organizational structure. Senior RCEME personnel within the of their systems and weapon systems. maintenance organizations of the Army’s Conclusion tactical units will need to apply new focus to • Investigate - Conduct technical The importance of equipment is evident in the following six tasks: investigations (forensic) and prepare the army’s operational readiness strategy. technical reports. Upon a technical In order to prepare its soldiers for this new • Advise - Provide expertise and failure, the current technical reality, the army must ensure that they are advanced technical advice within the investigation procedures focus almost well-led, well-trained, well-equipped, and unit. In addition to the advice currently solely on the details of the incident to focused. The Corps of RCEME must adapt provided with regard to maintenance identify ways to mitigate the problem to the current and future battlespace reality services, this duty will involve in the future. What is lacking, in to support the preparation and conduct providing expertise and engineering many cases, is an in-depth look at the of army operations in an era of Adaptive and technological advice from the various system components in order Dispersed Operations. By increasing the perspective of the mobility, lethality and to identify the primary causes of the level of knowledge, responsibility and survivability of systems and weapon breakdown or defect. authority of RCEME personnel within the systems. unit, The Corps of RCEME will be able • Test - Analyze equipment performance. to better support the chain of command • Plan - Prepare equipment combat Just as preparing post-exercise reports with regard to equipment capabilities and capability evaluations (ECCEs). This after each training exercise allows us adapt equipment to the unit’s mission evaluation is a sub-product of the to thoroughly review the event and requirements. operational planning process (OPP). fine-tune techniques and procedures, As is the case with preparation of conducting a performance analysis

RCEME Journal - Edition 2 - 2014 | 7 Learning and Action RCEME 2021 and the Ammunition Engineer

Maj Colin Smith, MEng , DGLEPM, DAEME 4-2

I have recently been appointed as the Ammunition Qualification Advisor for The Corps of RCEME. I have been given a unique and privileged opportunity to help shape the direction of how our Corps provides support to the armed forces. The two ammunition qualifications I will advise on are Advanced Ammunition Engineering and Ammunition Technical Officer.

There are two driving forces that will guide RCEME 2021 concept is a need to engineers qualified to date it is essential and shape how ammunition qualifications institute a greater focus on knowledge that The Corps of RCEME continues within The Corps of RCEME will evolve. of the technological capabilities of the to develop officers with advanced First, the Corps is reviewing all trades equipment. The MES Review will assist in technical and applied knowledge in under the Military Employment Structure providing the framework to institute this the ammunition field through RMCC. (MES). The MES Review is at the problem focus. definition stage and addresses specific As the Qualification Advisor, I will be issues identified by the Corps. Second, Education and training in Advanced working on clearly defining how the RCEME 2021 provides guidance with the Ammunition Engineering under the Advance Ammunition Engineering vision of the “RCEME Corps introducing master’s program at RMCC develops program will evolve to meet the intent an operationally focused Land Equipment EME officers with the knowledge and of RCEME 2021 with a view of having Engineering capability at the tactical level understanding of weapons, ammunition, these officers better integrated in the in order to provide a tactical advantage to explosives, and armour protection that EME Officer DP and career advancement commanders by allowing them to properly can be leveraged by tactical commanders. models. I encourage officers interested exploit the technological advancements To fulfill an advisory role, ammunition in the challenging field of ammunition of their equipment in operations.” engineers will need a practical knowledge and explosives to consider advanced as presented during Bluebell 2014. component to provide effective ammunition engineering as an option in support to tactical commanders. With their career plan. One of the key conditions for the only a small number of ammunition RCEME Common Course 0022- Sault Ste. Marie

WO R.F. Garson, Veh Tech, 33 Svc Bn

It’s already July and the RCEME Common Course has begun in the far North of 4 Division.

33 Service Battalion in Sault Ste. Locks Tours to only name a few. Then Marie is running this summer’s Reserve most of the candidates will continue on RCEME Common Course for Ontario. to a Driver Wheel Course here in sunny We welcomed 15 future Craftsmen from Sault Ste. Marie. As we used to say in Ottawa, Toronto, London, Windsor, and 26 Maint Coy: “When we do something a couple of hometown boys. right, no one remembers. When we do something wrong, no one forgets !” The RCEME Common Course is the basis for the RCEME trade and the ground work for the future Vehicle and Weapons RCEME Common Course Students working in Technicians. During 4 weeks, we put the the shop putting to practice the skills taught candidates through their paces. They on filing and grinding. learned to work with a variety of hand tools and shop equipment. Filing, sanding, On top of all that, the candidates also got grinding, drilling, as well as using taps and to experience scenic Sault Ste. Marie and dies are just some of the skills they will its unique attractions (because it’s just Back Row (left to right) : Brd O’Leary, Sgt learn. These skills were all used to craft a cool place to live, actually sometimes Buffett, WO Garson, Privates: McIntyre, the course project of a “brass hammer”. downright cold). Things like our Bhatnagar, Burlock, Prupes, Ramjahn, Christie, The students also learned LEMS, MRT Bushplane Museum (float and ski planes Huang, Johanson, Lee, and MCpl Richard, MCpl drills, welding, hydraulic equipment, and sometimes made out of bush/wood), Watson. Front Row (left to right): Pte Lau, Pte much, much more! Riverfront Boardwalk, Hub Trail and Escamilla, Pte Pickard, Pte Kwan

8 | RCEME Journal - Edition 2 - 2014 Learning and Action Ex MAINT WANDERER

Lt Dan Maguire, Veh Pl AO, 1 Svc Bn, Lt Nathan Leung, Trg O, 1 Svc Bn, and Capt Nick Caroppi, AO Maint, 1 Svc Bn

As the remainder of RCEME technicians from 1 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group have returned from Task Force 2-13, and soldiers in the Edmonton area are returning to a state of reconstitution, Maintenance Company of 1 Service Battalion is returning to an emphasis on basic soldiering skills and the fundamentals of being a RCEME technician in the field.

and the first Repair Recovery Radio during a road move. The road Requests were sent over the moves went long into the night, and had radio, the spirit of ‘Arte et convoy navigators restless for the sun to Marte’ was embraced by all. rise, as they learned about the drawbacks of blackout driving. On Ex MAINT WANDERER, Platoon Commanders were By the end of the short exercise, RCEME drawn from various positions soldiers walked away from the exercise throughout Maintenance with a greater understanding of their Company; the Platoon trades. Skills, once rusty, had been well- Warrants were drawn greased, and many had an opportunity to exclusively from Artisan observe the capabilities of the equipment Platoon. For them, this had that we otherwise maintain in garrison. been their first opportunity Even the Officer Commanding and the to be exposed to certain Equipment Technical Sergeant Major RCEME functions in the field. were reminded of the limitations of Lt Maguire performs a map brief on the changing scenario. When requests over the radio their own equipment, but it nonetheless came, requiring Equipment offered them the opportunity to observe Skills that have not been exercised for Collection Points to be established, the RCEME Vehicle Technicians expertise at many since RCEME Common Training, sergeants reflected on their trades training recovering when the first Triple-R during or Officers’ DP 1 were recently put to the as Weapons, Electronics-Optronics and Ex MAINT WANDERER was a request to test on Ex MAINT WANDERER in the Materials Technicians, which did not recover C/S 39 from a deceivingly sizable Buffalo Annex of the Wainwright Training cover recovery tasks. It was this type of puddle. Area, 13-17 April 2014. opportunity which allowed for cross- training throughout the Technicians of Maintenance Company trades of The Corps of were deployed to the field in, what RCEME. A dialogue for many was an unfamiliar scheme was opened where of manoeuvre. Opposed to a recent technicians could inclination of deploying out of Forward benefit from each Operating Bases, platoons were deployed other’s skills. forward in a decentralized manner, forcing junior officers and NCO’s to exercise It would not be a 1 their command and control. Junior Service Battalion RCEME technicians’ basic soldiering skills exercise if there weren’t were tested as they manned defensive some element of the locations, unsupported by the remainder well-practiced “Dig- of the company. and-Move”. Harbour drills were put to test, Once road move orders were given by and Craftsmen learned the three Platoon Commanders, each first-hand the type of platoon separated. Sergeants, acting as tree that prevent a Platoon Warrants deployed in advance LSVW from parking parties and sited defensive locations. in its location within Once in location, rusty occupation drills a hide. Later, officers were exercised and platoons were ready would experience to perform operations from their location. the limitations of the A Maintenance Company soldier poses at the out route of the When communications were established, 3-foot-whip of the 522 Forward Repair Group

RCEME Journal - Edition 2 - 2014 | 9 Learning and Action Craftsman’s Cup Competition 2014

MCpl P.S. Levesque, Mat Tech, 5 CDSG, Tech Svcs Br

On 21 May 2014, in celebration of the 70th Birthday of The Corps of RCEME, all candidates undergoing training at the Gagetown RCEME OJT Centre assembled to complete in the first annual Craftsman’s Cup Competition.

Col Cmdt, BGen (ret’d) Holt addresses the Small Party Task – Left to Right: Cfn Mailhot- First Aid Stand – Cpl Feader, Cpl Mah, Sgt troops. Landry, Cfn Boudreau, Cfn Ferrier, Cfn Pruski, MCpl Pickett, and Cpl McSheffery. Bernard, Cfn Roy, and Cfn Chabassol. survivor style team-building stand with a RCEME twist. Though the sections enjoyed each stand, the team building stand was enjoyed the most. Sections were required to navigate through a series of obstacles to collect water jerry cans and pulley items by moving only on 2x8 planks and not touching the ground. The water would later be used as a counter- EO Tech Skills Task – Cfn Bernard and Back Row: MCpl Thorburn, Cfn Colburne, Cpl balance to help lift an HLVW tire and Cfn Mailhot-Landry MacKenzie, Cpl Orr. Front Row: Cfn Allard, reveal a key that could be used to raise Cpl Bryden, Cpl Legault, Cfn Strong the Corps flag. The Craftsman’s Cup Competition is a newly established event and competition the live-fire portion of the competition and The event was a great success and gave that is designed to test the soldier and delivered orders to their sections as part all the OJT students and junior leaders technical skills of RCEME Cfn and Cpls of their battle procedure. On competition the opportunity to practice some skills that undergoing OJT at Maint Coy within day the teams rotated through 9 different they do not get use as often. The event Tech Svcs Br at 5 CDSB Gagetown. This stands where they were required to display will definitely be held each year and the year’s competition was a timed event and utilize the soldier and technical skills cup will remain proudly on display within challenging a wide variety of core soldier they had fine-tuned during their training. the OJT Centre. and technical skills. In addition to the testing of skills, the competition generated a competitive atmosphere while fostering teamwork and esprit de corps amongst the OJTs and Maint Coy as a whole.

Teams of 8-10 OJT students were matched with volunteer MCpls as Sect Comds and they were separated into 3 platoons, each with a Sgt Mentor/Pl Comd. Work- up training lasted for 2 months while the Sect Comds prepared their sections for Table Top Obstacle – Cpl Fizzard and Cfn Espino. the potential tasks they would face in the Winning Craftsman’s Cup Team at RCEME Day competition. – Left to Right: CWO Gilbert, Col Bouchard, Stands included RCEME History, Cpl Victory, Cfn Knight, Cfn Darling, Cpl Mah, The day prior to the competition the navigation, technical skills, first aid, Cpl McSheffery, Cfn Gagnon, Cpl Feader, MCpls took their sections to the range for obstacle course, drill, CBRN, and a MCpl Levesque, BGen (ret’d) Holt.

10 | RCEME Journal - Edition 2 - 2014 Learning and Action Op Distinction – Normandy

WO Marc Lavoie, Con O, 1 CMBG, 1 RCHA

June 6th 2014 marked the 70th anniversary to what some have named the longest day. Both myself, from 1 RCHA in Shilo, and Cpl Marinutti, with 1 CER in Edmonton, had the great honour of having been selected as members of OP DISTINCTION- NORMANDY.

Op DISTINCTION had two phases, Bashford. He shared many stories from for six of our RCEME Brothers. Before I with the first phase consisting of a multi- his time in uniform and his love for the left Canada, I was able to secure some of national mass air drop into Normandy, Corps. Later that afternoon, our group our 70th anniversary pins from 1 Service France on 5 June 2014. The jump chalks made our way to Juno Beach. I found Battalion’s ETSM. I handed them out to consisted of Canadian, British, American, myself standing in the water where the the locals but also placed one on each and French soldiers. Altogether, we totaled Royal Winnipeg Rifles landed. Turning to of the markers of our fallen comrades. just over 350 paratroopers jumping from face inland, I could only imagine what it six aircrafts. Phase two consisted of would have been like for the brave men The next day was jump day. We made commemorative activities at Juno Beach. who landed and charged up the sandy our way to a small French air force base beach. To this point, I had only where we conducted conversion training experienced it through books and on the British parachute rig and aircraft pictures, but to see it with my own drills. After all the training was completed, eyes and to feel the sand under we boarded our assigned aircrafts. After my boots gave me a great sense of takeoff the planes headed north to a rally Canadian pride. On the second day, point over the channel before turning I found myself in the small French to start the jump. Every paratrooper on town of St-Maire Glise, where I board was ready and could not wait for found two more REME brothers. the green light. I cannot explain the thrill They had crossed the channel by and excitement I was feeling. For a brief ferry in a Land Rover wheeled moment, I thought about what the troops MRT. John Rebbeck and Bob Lane, back in 1944 might have been thinking; who were both retired members, did they experience a mixture of fear, quickly showed me all the great courage and pride? WO Lavoie just before his jump with Cpl Marinuttie modifications they completed on As we stood in the aircraft, static lines Before either of the two events, we had ready with all eyes on the jump master the opportunity to break up into smaller and the light over his shoulder, we knew groups and visit the country’s amazing it was almost time. The sound of the wind war history. blowing in as the jump doors opened could not muffle the cheers of the paratroopers On the first day, many of us visited Pegasus ready to go. When the green light lit, the Bridge, an important objective during cheers started to fade as the plane started the original operation. While visiting the to empty. The emotions and experience museum, I got to meet a retired REME of looking at the Normandy’s landscape brother from the British Army, Mr Dave as I drifted down is something I will never forget. It was the best jump in my career. WO Lavoie holding the RCEME flag with two REME members. On 6 June, we got into our DEU and joined in the commemorative ceremonies the MRT, which included an ammo can at Juno Beach. Many veterans spoke of mounted CD player which pumped the their experiences during the war, but they music full blast, blaring out the sounds of mostly spoke of this particular day 70 pipes and drums. We quickly drew a great years ago, where many found themselves crowd around the vehicle and it was an charging up this great beach. The sites, opportunity to show the RCEME pride. the jump and great stories shared with us during this incredible adventure I’m sure That afternoon, I had the opportunity will never be forgotten. I will never forget to tour the Canadian war cemetery in what those many men accomplished and WO Lavoie with a veteran. Beny-Sur-Mer. I found the grave markers sacrificed 70 years ago.

RCEME Journal - Edition 2 - 2014 | 11 What’s Up? In the Land of Winter

MCpl W.H. Vannest, Veh Tech, 1 RCHA

In March, I had the opportunity to go into a remote area of northern Manitoba with George Lenard and the Meagen Search and Rescue (MSAR) for two weeks. The areas that I visited were Garden Hill, St Teresa’s Point, Wasagamack and Stevenson Island, Manitoba.

When I first arrived as an outsider, it was Now it’s time for the vehicle technician them on these roads. Speeds need to be difficult to find people willing to have a side of me to come out. When most of watched carefully as it is easy to fall into a conversation with me, but once they us think of winter roads, we think of false sense of security, just as you have to learned I was a soldier things changed ice roads. Even though we did travel watch your speeds on trails in the training right away. As one of the elders said, and on ice roads, most of the trip there and area to prevent head on collisions. The was echoed by many others throughout back was spent on winter roads. I had same problem exists here but on a much my visit, “you are a warrior, welcome.” I not fully comprehended the difference; larger scale and with bigger equipment had learned in school and heard stories I was thinking that it would be a lot like coming at you. To try and use these roads through the years about the special status traveling on trails in the training area but too late in the season would be a mistake that a warrior holds within the culture of I learned there are many differences. The as it thaws quickly and the road would be Anishinabe (one definition – people of roads are not made straight. Every couple impassable once thawed. the land and of God) but to experience it hundred meters, there was a 45 degree was both a privilege and an eye opener. bend that minimized the amount of time This was a wonderful experience for me While visiting the schools and band the sun was hitting the road. It may not and one that I hope to be able to repeat offices, as well as when talking with the seem to be that important, but with the next year. The experience and knowledge elders, students and staff, I was always roads traveling through swamps, muskeg that was passed on to me on this short trip greeted like an old and respected friend. and forests, even in the -20 degree and has allowed me to better understand the The hardships, logistics and costs that are below weather, there were a few places difficulties that we would face deploying required to supply the communities were where tires sunk due to the sun thawing into these areas and how to prepare more immense than I had ever imagined. the road. The nature of the ground under for them. I also appreciated seeing and If they don’t get supplies brought up on the road also made for a bumpy ride receiving their respect and thanks to not the winter roads, it has to be flown in then over the roots and bumps created by the just me, but to the entire CAF. All this transported by ferry to their community. frost heaves. The use of tire chains on support despite their own difficulties was This meant that every little detail had to these roads can be counterproductive a refreshing reminder of why we wear the be calculated and planned, right down as they tear up the road and expose uniform and why we carry on the proud to the maintenance and upkeep of their the ground underneath, making them tradition of being warriors. emergency vehicles’ spare tires, parts, and more vulnerable to thawing. I am very paint for the upkeep and renovations. quick to use tire chains on vehicles in the training area but would be hesitant to use

2014 Army Run

For the 7th annual Army Run, on 21 September, 2014, with more than 25,000 runners from all over Canada, The Corps of RCEME was once again well represented. Despite unfavorable temperature for a long run, we all crossed the finish line, showing our strong determination. Congratulations to all who participated in the race and continue your training program to get ready for next year!

12 | RCEME Journal - Edition 2 - 2014 What’s Up? RCAF Celebrates RCEME Day

CWO Pierre Dionne, A4 EME 3, 1 Cdn Air Div Headquarters

From coast to coast, RCEME Corps members in the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) recently celebrated the 70th birthday of the Corps.

tournament. Afterward, the a few festive drinks. Senior Regional RCEME Officer, Maj Hingwala, In Greenwood, 14 Wing technicians were spoke of history and joined by previous service members and contribution of the Corps after enjoying breakfast in the AMSE leading up to and on D– hanger, participated in a planned route Day, 6 June 1944. The rally or a quick nine holes round of golf. day capped off with ‘blind’ They demonstrated their ingenuity by gator races, water balloon submitting various push carts for the slingshot launch, and afternoon “Show & Shine” along with a ‘friendly’ pie throwing. few quick races where the only injuries were to some of the participants’ pride. Similarly, in Trenton, 8 The turnout for our event was fantastic, Wing followed tradition playing host to serving members from 14 with euchre, golf and Wing Greenwood and Camp Aldershot 4 Wing Commander, Col Kenny, accompanied by Capt soccer tournaments where (with both Regular Force and Reserves Cousineau and MWO Woolsey, inspect members of RCEME everyone was way too present) as well as several past members flights. busy to keep score (or was of the Corps joining in activities.

Technicians at various Wings and Each and every day, members of Detachments downed their tools The Corps of RCEME proudly work and replaced them with either golf within and support RCAF Wings clubs, cards or BBQ utensils to across the country. These members, commemorate this day in true Arte both military and civilian, continue et Marte fashion. to depict the old adage of ‘work hard and play even harder’. This At 4 Wing Cold Lake, the day started year marked a very special RCEME with a formal parade which was day for our great family across the reviewed by the Wing Commander, country. Col E.J. Kenny, and was followed up with issuing of the new RCEME DEU slip-ons. Wing Logistics and Engineering afraid to) and fun ended up being senior staff attended the parade and the overall winner. During the expressed support and congratulations golf tournament, more time was to the RCEME members. A number of spent searching for golf balls than special guests attended the reception actually playing, and it was noted including the Maple Resolve Mission that some needed more help than Support Squadron and former RCEME others. The cake cutting was done members spanning several decades by the wisest, Mr. Mack Smith, and past. Current and past members had a the youngest, Cpl Derek Deraiche. wonderful opportunity to share stories, build memories, and solidify what it Bagotville used the opportunity means to be RCEME. to make RCEME Day a family oriented event. Spouses, In Winnipeg, events were kicked off with significant others, and children the traditional Fly Wheel toss, which took part in the unique festivities at saw the introduction of several new and lac Ha-Ha. Their activities ranged creative throwing techniques. Shortly from fishing to ATV rides through after, many military, civilian, and retired the wilderness. This was of course MCpl Carr helps out Mr. Parks with a raised tee members participated in a 9-hole golf followed by a sumptuous BBQ and

RCEME Journal - Edition 2 - 2014 | 13 What’s Up? A Joyful Return

Leighsah Millward, DGPFS, CFSTG PSP , Reporter

On Friday, June 27, during a beautiful sunny morning, we said farewell to our colleague and welcomed to another. The Royal Canadian Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (RCEME) School gathered at Sicily Parade Square to bid farewell to LCol James Bower, and to welcome the incoming Commandant, LCol Lindsay Dencsak.

molding the minds of young Captains. The new Commandant, LCol Dencsak is no stranger to the RCEME School. In fact, he has served the School before in a number of instructional and staff positions, including Chief Instructor and Deputy Commandant. Left to right: LCol Bower, Colonel Nixon, and LCol Dencsak. “It’s a place I consider to be home, and Photograph: MCpl Mary Mechalko, CFSTG HQ it’s an exceptional unit that’s got a great LCol Lindsay Dencsak leads the RCEME responsibility,” commented Dencsak. “I The troops were in fine form as they School in Parade for the first time, in his new bring a lot of experience to the School paid their respect to their former leader, role as Commandant. and it’s really a place that I want to be, all spit and polish and moving as one, Photograph: MCpl Mary Mechalko, CFSTG HQ that means passion and commitment. I they paraded for the last time under am very happy about this posting, so is Bower’s command. “Coming back to the to carry on with the challenges and the my family.” RCEME School two years ago was more new Commandant is set up for success.” of a coming home, so leaving here is like Welcome to LCol Dencsak, the RCEME leaving home to an extent,” commented LCol Bower is off to his new posting in School will continue to stand strong LCol Bower. “Its somewhat upsetting, but Kingston where he will be directing staff and move the yardstick forward under I know at the same time the team is ready at the Canadian Army Staff College, and his leadership.

March for Valcartier’s 100th Anniversary

Cpl Lafond, EO Tech, Maint Coy, 5 Cdn Svc Bn, 2nd Cdn Div

This past 15 June, to mark the centenary of the Valcartier Garrison, precisely 317 military members took part in a 30-km march from Valcartier to the Port of Quebec City to commemorate the departure of Canadian troops for Europe in 1914.

the 5 Cdn Svc Bn colours, it was quite showing everyone’s sense of pride. obvious that, for MWO Drouin, we were We then split into two groups, one boarding taking this opportunity to mark the 70th the US Navy ship USS OAK HILL and anniversary of the creation of The Corps of the other the HMCS ATHABASKAN, a RCEME. As you can imagine, our flag flew Canadian destroyer. To add to our incredible proudly the whole way. adventure, a CF-18 made two flybys while we were formed up on the ships, facing During the First World War, there was the crowd, which gave us another ovation. nothing about this journey that was easy, When we disembarked at the end of the The Corps of RCEME held their own in pleasant or to be happy about. But now, on closing ceremony, all the participants this company, with seven of us from 5 Cdn 15 June 2014, I could see the dedication of received a marcher’s coin, minted specially Svc Bn (Capt Larose, Lt Bigonnesse (OPI), today’s soldiers who, to remind themselves for the occasion. MWO Drouin, WO Pellizzari, MCpl Moreau, of the sacrifices of our veterans, had decided Cpl Duris and I, Cpl Lafond) who covered to retrace their steps. During the march, I We will all certainly keep very warm this distance. We left 3 R22eR early in the could see the sense of honour in the eyes of memories of this experience, and we count morning, at walking pace and in sweltering my fellow soldiers and the smiles that never ourselves lucky to have been part of it. heat. Although we were marching to show left their faces from the start to the finish,

14 | RCEME Journal - Edition 2 - 2014 What’s Up? The 10th Annual Western Area RCEME Hockey Tournament

Cpl McGann, Veh Tech and Cpl Shannon, Veh Tech, CFB Shilo

The 10th Annual Western Area RCEME Hockey Tournament took place at CFB Shilo from March 6th to 8th.

for the past 10 years. LCol BATUS took home the gold against 17 B.A. Davidson, the Western Wing TEME, and Base Maintenance took Senior Maintenance Officer, the consolation match up over 2PPCLI was again there to drop the Maint Pl who were awarded the “most ceremonial puck and present sportsman-like team”. Cfn Matt Reid from the trophies. the Base Maintenance team took home the tournament MVP with 9 goals and The Western Area RCEME 3 assists in his first RCEME tournament Tournament commenced at showing. The tournament also featured the Jr. Ranks in CFB Shilo Tom Foster, a retired RCEME Sergeant Base Maintenance Team on Thursday evening for the with 30 years military service, followed by meet and greet with pizza 15 years of work for DND as a mechanic. The tournament featured a Team from and a beverage of their choice. Players Tom has played in nine of the ten British Army Training Unit Suffield and tournament staff got to see old tournaments. (BATUS), made up of British REME acquaintances and make some new ones soldiers most of whom have not even before the games started on Friday. Each OPI Lt Ben Park with his tournament played hockey until their posting to CFB team played 3 games on the first day committee, Sgt Hamel and MCpl Lalonde, Suffield. 17 Wing Winnipeg, 2 PPCLI in a round-robin format. Saturday saw made this tournament a success. This Maint Pl and Base Maintenance CFB intense playoff matches as well as a skills allowed each team the chance to play Shilo compiled the remainder of the competition. The BATUS Lions grabbed hard, have fun, and make this RCEME teams. first in the fastest skater, top goalie, and tournament a morale lifting experience the accuracy shoot. Cpl Evan Paul of for players, RCEME family, and spectators The tournament has been highly Base Maintenance managed to stop the alike. successful in promoting morale and esprit streak by winning the hardest shot with de corps of the 3 CDSG RCEME Corps a 119 km/h slap shot. This year team The Iltis Project

MCpl J. Beausoleil and Cpl S. Isabelle, Veh Tech, 4 wing, CFB Cold Lake

During summer 2013, Cpl Day. It seemed only fitting that a piece Beausoleil, I/C of the Primrose of our past be present for our re-badging Lake Evaluation Range (PLER) ceremony to The Corps of RCEME. Its Detachment, had as a task to ready second opportunity to shine was at the 6th and prep different targets ranging annual RCEME Car Show held at CFB from the old 2 ½ gassers to school Edmonton. Our presence with the Iltis busses when something caught his allowed us to represent Cold Lake and raise eye. Buried in the tree line were six money throughout WLE and 42 Rdr and Iltis’ that had served their time and make donation along with the proceeds were ready to end their career with of the car show to the Stollery Children’s the Cdn Armed Forces as targets Hospital Foundation. Special thanks to all for the CF-18 Hornets. the members of RCEME and Transport who made this project possible. The RCEME Iltis saw its first official parade on May 15 2014, RCEME

RCEME Journal - Edition 2 - 2014 | 15 What’s Up? Regimental Dinner in Ottawa on the 70th Anniversary of The Corps of RCEME

CWO J.G.R. Gilbert, RCEME Corps Sergeant Major

On 15 May 2014, the RCEME Corps of the old guard of RCEME. We enjoyed members who had been present at the first celebrated its 70th anniversary. To mark good food and, even more importantly, RCEME Corps parade in 1944, Sgt(ret’d) the occasion, the NCMs offered an evening exchanged great stories that have marked Cateline and CWO (ret’d) Thompson. of activities during a regimental dinner in our Corps. Of the old guard, we had 2 We were truly honoured to have the Ottawa with CWO opportunity to salute them. Kevin West, CWO of the Canadian Armed From left to right, standing these CWOs : Gilbert, Forces, as its guest of Bergeron, Froment, (ret’d) Roome, (ret’d) Tuepah, (ret’d) honour. Roy, (ret’d) Breton, (ret’d) L’Italien, (ret’d) Dalcourt, West, Also in attendance at Tremblay, Moreau, Godbout. Seated: (ret’d) Roy, (ret’d) this special evening Slominski, Sgt (ret’d) Cateline, CWO (ret’d) Thompson were several members and CWO (ret’d) Clackett.

Visit to the North Bay RCEME Corps Members Maintenance Section Stationed at St. John, CWO J.G.R. Gilbert, RCEME Corps Sergeant Major Newfoundland

CWO J.G.R. Gilbert, RCEME Corps Sergeant Major

From left to right, Sgt Rumbolt, Cpl Douglas, MCpl St-Aubin, Cpl Spry, Front row, from left to right, front : MCpl Small, MCpl Tarrant, Cpl Cpl Pelletier, CWO Gilbert and Cpl Morosetich Cooper. Back row: Mr. Locke, CWO Gilbert, MCpl Ryan, WO Parsons.

On 12 June, CWO Gilbert had the opportunity to visit the Last July 25th, I had the chance to visit The Corps of RCEME North Bay Maintenance Section. This visit by the Corps members stationed at St. John Newfoundland. Although they Sergeant-Major was greatly appreciated by all, and we even are very few in number in this wonderful workshop in the heart profited from the occasion to take a photo. Although this is of the beautiful city of St. John, they represent very well The a small section, it has a lot of equipment to support in order Corps of RCEME. The maintenance members are very involved to keep 22 Wing operational and Maintenance personnel are in the station and the community and their work is greatly deeply involved in the Base and the community of North Bay. appreciated.

16 | RCEME Journal - Edition 2 - 2014 What’s Up? 5 Svc Bn Wins Gold in Hockey at the 5 CMBG Winter Games

Lt François Beauvais-Beaudry, 5 CMBG, 5 Svc Bn, Maint Coy, Veh A Pl Comd

5 Service Battalion’s hockey team surprised the whole Brigade on 27 February 2014, when they won gold in a discipline where the R22eR is the favourite.

“As soon as the training and determined to strive even more to be started, the guys could competitive. Similarly, the intensity of the see that it was intense.” training, the support of their peers, and the Each of the lines had pride felt by each member of the Corps has a role to play, the served to strengthen the bonds between staff worked on each them. player and they in turn accepted criticisms Accomplishment and worked on the CWO Rodrigue (“Toe Blake”) and his weaknesses that were assistant, WO (MOMO) Morissette, were identified. The team well aware that the 5 Svc Bn team has trained professionally, always been underestimated. For military with emphasis on speed members whose occupation is to be a The team, powered predominantly by and cardio, and this was the key to their technician first and foremost, they are maintenance specialists, attributes its success, according to Cpl Laforge, where proud to have proved once again that the success to rigorous practice, the cohesion of the 5 Svc Bn team was able to maintain members of the Corps and of 5 Svc Bn its members and the passion of its coaches. consistency and a high intensity throughout can beat the Brigade’s combat units on The victory was won by an outstanding the tournament. top of providing the service. You could performance from the goalkeeper, Cpl just feel the emotions on the ice after the Thibault-Dubuc, and by the decisive Cohesion winning goals: some were crying tears of moment in the shoot-out, when Cpl Ouellet Craftsman Thibodeau, a winger on the joy, feeling an immense pride toward their and MCpl Desbiens both skilfully faked out team, also talked about the chemistry fellow countrymen and a powerful sense of the 3 R22eR goalie to rack up a final 2-1 created between members taking part in belonging to 5 Svc Bn. victory. off-season tournaments, particularly the tournament in November. As Cpl Laforge The maintenance specialists continue to The Strength of the Coaching Team put it, “The players were really pumped up wow us in the 5 CMBG and stand out at For the players, one of the crucial elements after the WO Muise tournament.” During every event. Bravo Zulu to all the players in pulling off this feat was the strict training. the training phase, the team and staff had and member of the 5 Svc Bn hockey team! CWO Rodrigue, the team’s head coach, to deal with problems with the arena on You make us proud of our colours and of knew his ultimate goal – “winning the gold base, where the rinks were being repaired, the excellence that our technicians of 5 Svc medal” – and this meant he had to build and pitched in to rent ice time in town. They Bn and The Corps of RCEME can achieve a strong team. Cpl Laforge, winger, said: came through them stronger, more bonded in the garage and on the ice. RCEME School Apprentice Platoon Attend Annual Colonel Karen Ritchie Memorial Curling Bonspiel

Private Zeyang Zhang The Apprentice curling team being (seated), enjoying his presented with the trophy for Top very first time stepping Craftsman Team during the 6th foot on ice. Despite Annual Curling Bonspiel held in the lack of experience, Petawawa Ontario 27 - 30 March the Apprentice team 2014. Left to right: Private Liam managed to finish Doherty; Private Kevin Sheals; fourth in the “B” the Corps Colonel Commandant, division BGen (ret’d) Holt; Pte Dwayne Conlon and Pte Zeyang Zhang

RCEME Journal - Edition 2 - 2014 | 17 Trade Section History of the Electronic Optronic Electronics and Optronics Technician – Land Technician CWO Andrew Rose, ADM(Mat), DGLEPM, DSSPM

From the earliest of times, weaponry has been used to put food on the table, conquer rulers as well as defend lands from invasions. Even before the Roman Empire existed, skilled labourers built, tested and maintained weapons from that era.

As time went by, so did the sub-occupations merged and became evolution of Warfare. Rapid the Fire Control Systems Technician advances in technology, weaponry (MOC 435). and equipment demanded more specialized technicians to maintain During the 1996 Occupational them. Analysis it was determined that the FCS Tech trade was to be restructured During WWI, long before the birth once again. It was proposed of The Corps of RCEME, some of that the four sub-occupations be the technicians within the Canadian amalgamated into one occupation Ordinance Corps (COC) were busy Staff Sergeant Byng and Corporal Switzer aligning the (FCS Tech MOC 434). This took maintaining gun mounts, sights and axis of the base with the carriage sighting equipment. place, effective 1 January 1999. instruments of all kinds to ensure the success of the Allied war machine. its part. Workshops moved forward with On 26 Apr 2005, The EME Branch These Craftsmen, at times, would have the pace of battle, and with it, Canada’s Advisor proposed to change the name to repair equipment in the front lines in Craftsmen. On 15 May 1944, RCOC was of the FCS Technician occupation to difficult, dirty and dangerous conditions then renamed to RCEME. At that time, Electronic Optronic Technician – Land. often under fire. the EO trade within the original RCEME The reason for which this was done was Corps consisted of over 25 trades a simple one. The Fire Control Systems After the war, the COC was renamed to specializing in electrical, instruments or occupation name did not convey the the Royal Canadian Ordinance Corps precision mechanical repairs. right image to external audiences (RCOC). Focus at this time was to create and that this contributed to recruiting and develop professional and educated In the late 1960’s, as part of the challenges. Potential recruits at job craftsmen to maintain Canada’s Army unification of the Armed Forces, these fairs or Recruiting Centres confused Fire equipment. specialized land technical trades were Control Systems with Fire Fighting. The replaced by a single Electro-Mechanical Corps of RCEME at the time believed that In 1940 Europe was once again cast into Technician (ELM Tech) occupation. a change of name was crucial to increase War and Canada was called upon to do Jokingly, to the Craftsmen at the time, attraction and improve marketing of the the acronym ELM, also stood for “Evil trade. It set out to clearly identify that Little Men”. the focus of the occupation was on the popular fields of electronics and high In the late 1970’s, there was a rapid technology. This enabled the trade to advancement of technology as well as be relevant to a dynamic workforce, to a tremendous increase in the scope of help restore the health of the occupation repair assigned to the trade, especially and to contribute to the success of Army in electronic systems. During 1978- Transformation. 80, to conduct adequate training and maintain the required expertise for Without any further structural changes modern Electro-Optic Systems, the within the trade, as of 2006, the FCS single-occupation structure was replaced Tech became an EO Tech and has by four occupation career fields. These remained that way until present.I comprised of an apprentice level occupation (ELM Tech MOC 431) which I Information was retrieved from “Canada’s Lance-Corporal W.E Skitteral, an Instrumen then fed two Journeyman/Supervisor Craftmen at 50” and “50 Years of Canadian Mechanic, Optical, at 208 Base Workshop, occupations: the Fire Control Technician Electrical and Mechanical Engineering”, and RCEME, in Ottawa, uses an engraving (Electronic) (MOC 432) and the Fire 2184-5000-1 (DLEPS 4-5) OCCUPATION NAME CHANGE –FIRE CONTROL SYSTEMS (FCS) machine closely watched by Staff Sergeant M. Control Technician (Optronic) (MOC TECHNICIAN – MOSID 00327 Kittely. 433). At the Manager level those two

18 | RCEME Journal - Edition 2 - 2014 Trade Section Machine Gun Swing Mount Project Weapons Technician Contract Award

Vu Nguyen, ADM(Mat), DGLEPM, DAVPM 10

In mid-May 2014, the Machine Gun Swing Mount (MGSM) Project was award to PLATT USA (W&E PLATT Australia) after 3 months of extensive bid evaluation activities.

The $12.4M contract will procure 2000 Prior to the start of the Request for expected in fall 2014, with Full Operational mounts along with associated spares, Proposal (RFP) process, the initial draft Capability (FOC) by summer 2015. training material, and technical support. Statement of Work (SOW) was written Swing mounts will be installed on each to include integration of the swing mount turret of the Light Armoured Vehicle for numerous other platforms (tracked (LAV) III with the remainder available to vehicles, WLAV, RCN, etc.). This greatly other platforms. increased complexity and extended timelines well beyond reasonable The equipment purchased through the expectations. The SOW was therefore project will dramatically improve the rewritten and simplified to only account ability of vehicle crews to operate machine for the LAV III which was available for guns effectively and safely from vehicle project validation at the time. This took Platt MGSM without base hatches. Along with Wheeled Light into account that the mount’s base would Armoured Vehicles (WLAV) family of be universal for a post-delivery integration vehicles, the MGSM will also be operated on any other interested platform. The in small numbers by the Royal Canadian broad specifications called out in the Navy (RCN) for force protection purposes initial SOW were refined and better and as well as other interested platforms. detailed in the new SOW; this provided the project with enhanced guidance and The original machine gun mounts (pintle direction to develop assessment and Platt MGSM being deployed mount) on the LAVs are fixed in place testing criteria. Lastly, the number of and prevented the effective use of the contractual deliverables was also reduced machine gun over a wide range of arcs and streamlined to only include what was and angles. This is exacerbated when the needed for DND to properly manage the vehicle is in motion, where the Exposed equipment based on the complexity and Crew Protection Kits (ECPK) does not level of effort to maintain the kit. provide a stable or safe firing platform from which to engage the enemy The evaluation process assessed each MGSM bidders’ samples against Platt MGSM on horizontal vibration table at The MGSM plays a key role in dispersed dimensional requirements as well as QETE operations. It provides armoured fighting testing in accordance with select MIL- vehicle crews with a heightened ability STD 810G environmental conditions. to effectively engage targets in a variety Only select “High Risk” criteria from the of directions and elevations, from both SOW, as determined by the Project and static locations and while on the move, with technical consultation with QETE, leveraging the protection offered by the were fully tested during the bid evaluation vehicle and its ECPK. process. These tested included simulation of 1st Line repair demonstration and Most Canadian Armoured Fighting simulated WLAV vehicle vibration profile Platt MGSM on vertical vibration table at QETE Vehicles (AFV) are not currently equipped testing. The final validation step consisted with machine gun mounts for the turret of mounting the samples onto a LAV III crews and rear sentries. With the addition Turret and conducting gunner drills using of the ECPK, protection of the turret crews the C6 and C9A2 machine gun. The and sentries has increased, however the MSGM Project was supported by QETE addition of a swing mount is required throughout the bid evaluation process, to ensure the soldiers’ ability to defend from consultation to the actual conduct of themselves. the tests and metrological measurements. Platt MGSM on vertical vibration table at Initial Operational Capability (IOC) is QETE (different angle)

RCEME Journal - Edition 2 - 2014 | 19 Trade Section Cracks, Cracks, and More Cracks Materials Technician Lt G.L. MacDonald, 5 CDSG, Tech Svcs Br

Being one of two bases to support the Leopard fleet, the Mat Techs at 5 CDSB Gagetown needed to work fast to get both Armoured Recovery Vehicles (ARV) back into service after the discovery of several cracks in their hulls.

At first glance the Armoured Recovery made to EMO an ARV from Montreal to continued until completion on 5 February Vehicle (ARV) at C Sqn of the RCDs support the Leopard fleet in Gagetown, 2014. Throughout the duration of the looked serviceable and ready to fulfill its while the ARVs were repaired on site. This repairs the team had to overcome several requirements at 5 CDSB Gagetown. On 16 was done with personnel from Mat Sect issues. September 2013 it became evident that this and additional personnel on a Technical was not the case after an inspection by MCpl Assistance Visit (TAV) from Petawawa. The The first issue arose during the first few Levesque, from Mat Sect at Maint Coy, TAV was scheduled for 20 January 2014 days, when the repair team noticed that the to 7 February 2014, and the ARV from temperature in the shop was dropping to Montreal was picked up on 9 January about 17°C. This posed a risk to the project 2014. With all the planning complete, and if not addressed, so the base Construction the replacement ARV in place, the crack Engineers were called and they provided a repairs commenced on 20 January 2014. portable heater to bring the temperature in the shop up to a more optimal 24°C. The The repair team was comprised of Cpl second issue faced by the repair team was Arbuckle from 2 Svc Bn and MCpl during the final days of the repair when the Vallaincourt from the RCDs along with two technicians from Petawawa discovered Cpl Gale, Cpl Currie, and Mr. Crowell another crack on the ARV they were from Mat Sect in Gagetown. The Welding repairing. It was discovered after they were Shop was locked down so the bays where forced to remove the idler wheel bracket to Initial Crack discovered in C Sqn’s ARV the ARV repairs were being conducted properly grind out another crack. In doing so they found a hidden crack revealed that the ARV had a major crack in lying behind the mount which its hull decreasing its structural integrity. At ended up extending the project this point CTC Maint Pl was made aware by a couple of days. of the issue and an inspection of their ARV revealed cracks in the same location. In conclusion, the project was extremely successful and gave Upon this realization both ARVs were the Mat Techs from Gagetown taken to Maint Coy and CTC Maint Pl a chance to work on a project stripped them down and moved them to usually outside the scope of a Mat Sect so the Mat Techs could conduct a Second Line shop. In addition to more thorough investigation of the cracks. the Mat Techs from Gagetown, At this point a Liquid Penetrant Inspection the project relied on the support (LPI) was conducted to determine the from other units and could not extent of the damage. The LPI resulted in ARV repair team from left to right: Cpl Arbuckle, Cpl Gale, Mr. have been completed without the the discovery of 6 cracks in C Sqn’s ARV Crowell, Cpl Currie, and MCpl Vaillancourt. support from all involved. and 5 cracks in Maint Coy’s. With this information Mat Sect was able to predict could be utilized the entire day without estimated repair times of 260 and 150 outside interference. This was to ensure man hours for C Sqn and Maint Coy’s that the hot welds would not be subjected ARVs respectively. It became evident to temperature changes that could crack that these repairs would heavily tax the them further. highly productive Mat Sect. The Chain of Command, with insight from the Life The largest portion of the repair consisted Cycle Material Manager, began working of grinding out all the original cracks. Once on a course of action to repair the vehicles. all the grinding was completed another LPI was conducted to ensure that all the After considering the impact to production, cracks had been removed. Once this was and the necessity to have the capability to completed the process of welding and recover the Leopard fleet, the decision was peening each weld began. The repairs Repaired ARV

20 | RCEME Journal - Edition 2 - 2014 Trade Section

Vehicle 10 Years of OWSS TLAV Updates Technician Major Trevor Bourgeois, ADM(Mat) DGLEPM, Ian Somerville, DGLPEM, DASPM 2-3, DAVPM, OWSS Program Manager TMS TLAV

The Wheeled LAV (WLAV) fleet, the workhorse of the Canadian Army, has The new aluminum armour of the proved extremely capable while deployed on operations, during training and Tracked Light Armoured Vehicle in garrison. (TLAV) continues to provide good ballistic protection without rusting. parts available within the Canadian Forces Brake Testing Supply System and The Mobile Tactical Vehicle Engineer the R&O mechanisms (MTVE) equipped with full armour in place tailored to the originally had a combat weight of more varying demands on the than 46,000 lbs, in excess of proven WLAV fleet. TLAV brake tests. To deal with this shortcoming, a team from DASPM 2 and A proven highly flexible the National Research Council’s Surface In Service Support Technology tested the MTVE braking contract, OWSS is capabilities at various ballasted weights responsive to the tempo up to 48,000 lbs and at different speeds MCpl Matthew McGregor, Image Tech, JTFK Afghanistan, Roto 8 of the Canadian Army. up to 40 kilometres per hour. After three Whether involved in an days and a great many panic stops, The WLAV Fleet, consisting of the LAV international deployment or staying closer the TLAV braking system was proved III, Bison, Coyote and the now-divested to home, the Equipment Management to be extremely robust and capable RG-31, has seen use since the mid-1990s Team can “dial-up” or “dial-down” the of stopping any TLAV, even if over- in Canada. With the variety of generations flow of parts based on operational and loaded. Confidence in the transmission and the newly upgraded LAV 6.0, the fleet training requirements. When required, and braking system for the TLAV, using will remain one of the core vehicles used by Platform Level Programs have been synthetic transmission fluid, is now higher the Army well beyond 2021. The success planned, developed and executed within than ever. of the fleet is not only due to the capability the OWSS contract. In particular, the of the platforms themselves, but through Major Vehicle Repair Program brought the extensive In Service Support (ISS) significantly damaged vehicles back to arrangements in place. 2014 represents fully serviceable condition, and the LAV III the 10 year anniversary of the Optimized Reconstitution Program fully reconstituted Weapons Service Support (OWSS) theatre equipment and spares within a year contract, the mechanism from which 97% – a significant accomplishment after years of the support to the fleet is drawn. of operations. MTVE ballasted with bar armour and sandbags Conceived in 2004, the result of many The WLAV fleet will support the Canadian undergoing high speed brake testing. years of policy changes with regards to In Army around the globe for many years to Service Support contracting throughout come, and supporting the fleet is OWSS - the 1990s and early 2000s, Phase I of the a flexible and proven support contract for TLAV Fleet Reduction OWSS contract was signed signifying a Army equipment. The TLAV fleet is being cut, thereby new approach to how a major platform is reducing the number of TLAV variants supported in the Army. Phase II was signed and reducing the number of idle TLAVs in 2008, finalizing the performance based at the Depot. Following on the heels agreements and established the framework of the retirement of the Army’s .50 cal of In Service Support out to 2034 with the machine gun, both turreted MTVL and OEM. M113A3 Infantry Section Carriers will be retired, leaving a dozen MTVEs with The application of performance measures the old Grizzly turret. Other members has produced significant results. Among the of the TLAV fleet will also be reduced. WLAV user community, Canada receives Exploiting the fleet reduction, the unparalleled performance where >95% of remaining TLAVs will be standardized Spares and R&O is received within agreed Sgt Matthew McGregor, CAF Combat Camera, on the operationally equipped standard, upon timelines. Ultimately, the Army has the IS2014-1009-01 with impact seating and the ability to

RCEME Journal - Edition 2 - 2014 | 21 Trade Section QETE RAMD Trials of TAPV Vehicle Special Capt F.W. Hawes, ADM(Mat), DGLEPM, QETE, Vehicle Engineer accept all other operational equipment The Quality Engineering Test Establishment and armour. These leaner and meaner (QETE) is a unit under Director General QETE personnel on site of this high TLAVs will mostly be held at units where Land Equipment Program Management operational tempo trial provided direct they can be used, maintained and cared (DGLEPM). QETE is a tri-service and immediate support. Data collection for. This is a good thing. Plans continue to organization serving all elements of the equipment installed on board each RAMD evolve, but divestment, redistribution and Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) providing vehicle by the QETE team prior to the standardization of the TLAV fleet is well investigation, evaluation, advice, and start of the RAMD trial. The data collection underway. representation for Department of National suite was transparent to the vehicle crew Defence and the CAF throughout the life and consists of approximately 20 sensors TLAV RWS Reductions cycle of equipment, from a technology located throughout the vehicle recording Remote Weapon Systems (RWS) on the versus platform perspective, to ensure vehicle vibrations and temperatures, TLAV and ELAV are becoming difficult performance requirements are met, and vehicle bus data and GPS information. to support. To keep enough spares past issues of safety, reliability and operational The suite included a data collection system the year 2020, all Level of Operations 3 readiness are addressed. which was mounted inside a ballasted TLAVs and ELAVs will retain their RWS dummy occupying the rear sentry seat of while the remainder (outside of a couple The Project Management Office – Tactical the TAPV. The collected data was analyzed needed for technician training in RCEME Armoured Patrol Vehicle (PMO TAPV) by an on-site QETE staff member and used School) will be converted to pintle approached QETE in 2009 with a tasking to provide timely mileage accumulation mounted C6 machine guns. As to the to provide technical support. Since that reports to the PMO. The data was also future, past 2020, the Replacement RWS time QETE has provided support in the used to help shed light on any test Project has not yet been initiated, but the areas of test plan writing, technical bid incidents that occured during the trial. ELAV team has started some rumours. evaluation, test witnessing and technical The instrumentation suite also providesd support in the form of data gathering and some flexibility to allow for any special Conclusion analysis. In the summer of 2012, the TAPV investigations to take place. The TLAV fleet of today is far superior contract was awarded to Textron Systems and much upgraded from its humble Canada Incorporated. In the summer of Despite our knowledgeable engineers and roots in the old M113A1 fleet of the 2013 PMO TAPV began their Qualification technicians, The Corps of RCEME still Vietnam era. The new armour system Test program to verify the vehicle require the assistance of organizations, and new hull construction has been requirements. Testing was conducted at such as QETE to provide sound scientific proven in the lab and in Afghanistan as the US Army Aberdeen Proving Grounds advice to DGLEPM for equipment projects, being more survivable than any other in Maryland USA as well as CFB Valcartier. failure analysis, RAMD trials and many light armoured vehicle. The rubber track other technical problems that the Army will and synthetic transmission fluid assures QETE was involved in the Reliability, face in the future. a greatly improved reliability anywhere Availability, Maintainability and Durability between minus 50º to plus 50º Celsius. (RAMD) trials being held at CFB Valcartier The new TLAV will soon approach the where personnel worked closely with PMO midpoint of its life, but as this utilitarian TAPV staff and members of 5 CMBG. aluminum armoured platform has often The RAMD trial was held over a period demonstrated, rust-out continues to be a of approximately 8 months and was long way off. subjected the five TAPV Pre-Production Vehicles (PPV) to realistic Army usage conditions. The trial was the PPV vehicles operate over various road surfaces and conditions ranging from paved to gravel to cross country. The trial also exercised the weapon systems consisting of a 40 mm grenade launcher and C6 machine gun mounted on a Remote Weapon System. QETE assisted in choosing the various off road routes that the vehicles drove over and conjointly developed the test plan with the PMO. Data Collection Suite

22 | RCEME Journal - Edition 2 - 2014 Traditions and History RCEME Officers in Camp Bordon, Hampshire, United Kingdom

Major Robert. D. Hardwick, RCEME

Before I close up shop and board the plane for home, I would like to share a bit of Corps history with you in the form of a photo of the presentation pieces that were gifted to REME and the Defence School of Electronic and Mechanical Engineering (DSEME) on behalf of the Corps of RCEME.

are names of RCEME single British and Canadian soldier that Officers in Camp Bordon served in Bordon during both World since 1945. Wars. And it was during the Second World War that this railway bore The second item to the left witness to the construction of the largest of the Canadian Flag is an Allied Workshop ever built: 1 Canadian Anvil that was presented Base Workshop, a workshop built by to the Havannah (REME) the Royal Canadian Engineers and Officers Mess again on manned by the newly formed Royal behalf of all RCEME Canadian Electrical and Mechanical Exchange Officers and Engineers. the Corps. This anvil was constructed entirely by After the War this vital workshop RCEME hands to ensure was destined to become home to the the gift was truly a gift from British School of Electrical Mechanical our Corps. These are the Engineering and served in this capacity three significances of the from 1946 until the Camp’s final The above photo shows three items, two anvil: closure in 2014. May this Anvil remind of which have been presented and one us of our common roots and the history which will be presented upon my return to • First this anvil was built from a piece of that we share together. Canada. original 1905 Bullhead rail. It was cut from the only piece still known to exist. Arte et Marte The first item, the Canadian flag, was The rail line that it was part of was torn RCEME and REME presented to the Commandant of DSEME up to make way for the new wide flange Lest we forget (Col Mike Pendlington) on behalf of all rail that was laid during and after the past RCEME Exchange Officers and The time 1 Canadian Base worksop was This anvil was presented to the Officers Corps of RCEME. The flag is mounted in a being built; Mess and the response was overwhelming. protective glass frame with black and white • Second the anvil is a symbol associated The bond between our two Corps remains images of 1 Canadian Base Workshop with the patron saints of both our Corps; steadfast and will remain so even without visible in the background. In the centre is and a Canadian presence at the school. The mounted a double relief maple leaf in red • Third it brings together the common REME Corps has expressed their deep and white with the three RCEME hat badges bond our two Corps have with Camp disappointment in the cancellation of the worn by the Exchange Officers super Bordon and the Canadian Army’s exchange position and will seek to reinstate imposed on it. The words «EXCHANGE» connection with the Camp that spans it. The «Bordon Anvil» immediately received «OFFICERS» are engraved at the base of from 1914 until my departure in Jul superstar status and is being locked away the Red Maple Leaf and mounted to either 2014 (100 years). Bordon has been a in the silver vault each night until work side of the centre plaque is the list of all major staging base for the Canadians to modify the secure display cabinet is RCEME Exchange Officers since 1964. during both World Wars. complete. Their actions demonstrates the strength of the bond between our two My intent behind the design of this Inscribed on the base of the anvil are the Corps. presentation piece was to highlight the following words: memory of those past Exchange Officers The third item in the picture in a second while still showing the strong bond between This Anvil was forged from the last identical «Bordon Anvil» that will be brought our two Corps that dates back to WWII. known piece of original 1905 Bullhead home to Canada for presentation to The This presentation piece expanded upon an rail that formed part of the early Corps of RCEME. With these final words, I earlier piece that was gifted to the school Bordon Military Light Railway. Over will close the Exchange Post and RCEME’s many years before. Inscribed on the plaque this very piece of rail passed every ties with Camp Bordon, Hampshire.

RCEME Journal - Edition 2 - 2014 | 23 Traditions and History The Kingsmill Bridge: RCEME at War in Italy Daring Innovative Exploits Under Fire

Colonel (Ret’d) Andrew Nellestyn and Honourary Captain Al Judson

Few people have a bridge named after them, fewer still actually had a hand in the design and building thereof and rarer still are those who accomplished this in the heat of battle.

decisive in the Allied battle plan.

Captain Kingsmill was the Officer Commanding the 61st Light Aid Detachment attached to the Canadian Armoured Regiment (Calgary Regiment), 1st Canadian Armoured Brigade, 8th British Army. He was approached by the Royal Engineers to devise a solution to cross the Gari River: a strategic crossing point which had been denied to the Allied forces by a deadly and highly concentrated German Army. Five tank-bearing bridges accomplish this were assigned to Captain were to be constructed to span the Gari Kingsmill’s 61st LAD. River. The first, a trial bridge, was to be The construction of this bridge which built near the village of Sant’Angelo about As depicted in the schematic, the ingenious spanned the Gari River in the Liri Valley five kilometers south of Cassino. It was to method employed by Captain Kingsmill southeast of Rome, has been characterized be code-named the Plymouth bridge and was to use two Sherman tanks: one with by many historians and senior commanders serve as the model for river crossings in the turret removed to which was attached of the time as a key turning point in the other operations. The bridge proper was rails to support and roll the Bailey bridge Allied thrust to drive the Germans out of constructed by the Royal Sikh Engineers. forward (the carrier tank); and the other Italy. This unparalleled and ingenious The task of the placement of the bridge and with retaining brackets attached (the initiative resulted in the utter destruction the modification of the Sherman tanks to pusher) to move the bridge across the Gari of and breakout through the River. Staging trials proved Gustav and Cassino-Hitler successful and on 12 May 1944 Lines and, ultimately, the the bridge was in place allowing defeat of Nazi forces in Italy. the Allied crossing and advance Thus was the course of history to contact to begin. Tanks from changed. Not surprisingly, the Calgary Regiment dashed it could be concluded that across the river. German this is a story about the counter-fire was heavy and Royal Canadian Engineers. while Captain Kingsmill was The reality is that a highly wounded his perseverance decorated member of The under fire assured the success Corps of RCEME, Captain of the mission. The Gustav Tony Kingsmill, was the Line collapsed ensuring the author of this extraordinary subsequent destruction of the feat for which he was Cassino-Hitler Line and the awarded the Military Cross. defeat of the German Army in Captain Kingsmill seized the Italy. moment: necessity being the mother of invention. Arte et The Kingsmill Bridge and the model which is in the King’s Own Calgary On 15 May 1944, three days Marte reigned supreme and Regiment Museum, Military Museums of Canada after the crossing of Plymouth

24 | RCEME Journal - Edition 2 - 2014 Traditions and History

Bridge (by then unofficially known as the Kingsmill Bridge), the Corps of Royal Canadian Electrical and Highlighting RCEME’s Mechanical Engineers was formed. Captain Kingsmill rebadged from the Royal Canadian Ordnance Corps Heritage and joined the ranks of a distinguished and proud new member of the Allied Order of Battle and the Capt M.J.L. St-Maurice, RCEME School Canadian Army. In order to increase the visibility of the artefacts kept in the RCEME heritage room, which was inaugurated in 2004, a number of the objects have been moved along with their display cases, into the hallways of the RCEME School’s Regimental Company.

This reorganization is also a way of preparing ourselves for the move to the new building, with the classification of the various sections being re-imagined and the types of possible object groupings being re-evaluated.

In the meantime, we have taken care to group the objects together by era and type, which has made it easier to see how our equipment has evolved over time.

Many people are now stopping to look at our artefacts, and all the members of our Corps, young and old, are now exposed on a daily basis to these objects from our history.

The next step of the project will involve better cataloguing the items in preparation for the move and for a potential transfer to the museum project in Kingston.

The mission of the Heritage Room is to “serve as a training platform Captain Kingsmill received the Military Cross for his for teaching EME history through the collection, preservation and actions at Plymouth Bridge. An excerpt from the presentation of military artefacts, photos, books, documents and citation notes: “His courage and determination were equipment related to the EME Branch and the Corps.” at all times beyond praise. His most gallant action contributed directly in the smashing of the Gustav The work that has been done to date brings us much closer to Line.” On 12 May 2007, his actions were celebrated fulfilling that mission. by the unveiling of a commemorative plaque on the Gari River near the town of Sant’Angelo officially renaming the bridge the Kingsmill Bridge to recognize his pivotal contributions to the defeat of the German Army in Italy.

The Corps of RCEME is replete with men and women who served and continue so to do with distinction. The Corps’ lineage is long, deep, proud and honourable reflecting service above all and exemplifying the Corps’ motto Arte et Marte.

Honourary Captain Al Judson is the curator and archivist for the King’s Own Calgary Regiment, Military Museums of Calgary. He is an advisor to and friend of the RCEME Museum. Additional information about the Kingsmill Bridge can be obtained by contacting [email protected].

RCEME Journal - Edition 2 - 2014 | 25 Traditions and History LEO 2 ARV CAN Commissioning Ceremony

MCpl Adam Roberts, Vehicle Tech, Maint Coy, 5 CDSG

The CAF’s first Leopard 2 ARV CAN arrived in Gagetown, 4 Mar 14. With its arrival, it provided long overdue relief to its predecessor, the Leopard Taurus ARV.

After a week of tool checks and recovery. It was out with the commissioning, it was handed old and in with the new as the over to Tech Svcs, Maint Coy, Leopard 2 ARV CAN proudly of 5 CDSG. It was then decided pulled its predecessor, the that this 64 Tonne 1500 hp brute Taurus ARV off the parade of an ARV should be named square with great respect for the accordingly. old ARV, after serving almost 30 years of grueling service The Corps of RCEME has a and protection to The Corps longstanding tradition of naming of RCEME. Now is the time for their ARVs. Usually they are TRAPPER to have its day and named using the first letter of as it has proven in Afghanistan, the squadron they support, it is up for the challenge. however, this time Maint Coy Unfortunately Trapper’s family decided to change it up and have BGen Eldaoud and MCpl Burton reveal the name of the CAF’s first was not able to attend the a competition throughout the Leo2 AVR CAN: TRAPPER. parade, however, a plaque Coy to come up with the name. was sent to his daughter in Fourteen names were submitted name. As BGen Eldaoud cut the ribbon memory of her father and his and a selection board was held to decide the RCEME flag quickly rose to the sky contributions to the Corps. This piece of the winner. The name was kept top secret flying proudly and revealing the name, RCEME history is one that is now proudly until 15 May 2014, RCEME Day, when TRAPPER. displayed on the side of the CAF’s first Maint Coy held the ARV Commissioning Trapper is a familiar name amongst The Leopard 2 ARV CAN and will remain Parade. Corps of RCEME. WO (Ret’d) Trevor there for future Craftsmen to learn the “TRAPPER” Allen MM, CD history of TRAPPER. retired in 1972 after serving 27 years in the military and In December 2014, there will be a passed away on 17 October second Leopard 2 ARV CAN arriving 2003. He was mentioned in Gagetown and because of the great in the King’s Dispatch for contributions and unwavering dedication distinguished service and to The Corps of RCEME it was decided received the Medal of Military that this ARV will be named MURRAY Merit for a heroic recovery in honour of Colonel (retired) Murray with a Sherman ARV in Johnston. Korea. The ARV commanded by Sgt (at the time) Allen was called forward and on arrival at the site, enemy artillery began to rain down on the vehicles. The vehicles were hit General salute to BGen Eldaoud as TRAPPER pulls the old several times and the crews Taurus off the parade square were ordered to take cover but Trapper refused to take cover and continued working to ensure What better way to name the ARV then that the tank dozer was recovered intact to roll onto the parade square crew and returned to safety, which happened commanded by the commander of 5th later that night. Cdn Div, BGen Eldaoud. The winner of the competition, MCpl Steve Burton, was To finish off the parade BGen Eldaoud Close-up on the left side of the chassis. called up to assist in the revealing of the crew commanded Trapper’s first official

26 | RCEME Journal - Edition 2 - 2014 Member Portraits

Gathering of Friends - In Memory of Ann-Marie Sturgess

Helene Rowen, RCEME School, HQ, Admin Asst

A unit gathering took place on Friday 4 July 2014 in memory of Ann-Marie Sturgess who passed away on Monday 23 June 2014.

Ann-Marie arrived at the RCEME School in 1999 and held the position of Administrative Assistant to the RCEME Corps Adjutant. She was involved in many of the Corps activities such as the RCEME National Golf Tournament, RCEME Day, WO Muise Memorial Hockey Tournament, “Bluebell” Mess Dinners, etc.

She was well known and appreciated by all who knew her.

RCEME Journal - Edition 2 - 2014 | 27 Awards and Recognitions

Director RCEME’s National, Regional and Cadet Award Winners

D RCEME National Award and acumen of the forces. the 17 Wing SMP section. His dedicated Regional Award for Western efforts have enabled RCEME Flight Central Region – MCpl Scali to consistently supply well maintained MCpl Ronald Scali was awarded D equipment to 38 Canadian Brigade. In RCEME’s Regional Award for exceptional addition, Cpl Thompson is a true advocate and outstanding work ethic and dedication for cultural awareness; He sits on the CF while employed as the Admin Coy Maint National Aboriginal Advisory Board and Sect Comd, 2 Svc Bn. MCpl Scali is volunteers at the Manito Ahbee Festival a highly dedicated soldier and leader (Gathering of First Nations People). who continually provides outstanding results in the completion of all tasks. He demonstrates a tireless work ethic and Quebec Region - Sgt Bouffard outstanding attitude regardless of his Sgt Pierre-Luc Bouffard was awarded D workload. He conducts himself in a RCEME’s Regional Award in recognition MCpl Sara Boland is receiving the D RCEME manner that exemplifies the values of of his outstanding accomplishments, National award from the CFB Shilo Base The Corps of RCEME because of this commitment and exceptional leadership Comd, LCol Stephen Joudrey and the CFB unparalleled leadership and dedication to within 5 Service Battalion and, more Shilo Base RSM, CWO James Doppler. 2 Svc Bn, the CAF, and the Corps. specifically, within the Commercial Vehicles Platoon of the Transport Company as For her outstanding mentorship, critical assistant manager of the commercial thinking ability, determination to achieve Training Systems Region – 50th vehicles fleet. On many different levels, success and her “can-do” attitude. Annual RCEME Golf Tournament he showed unparalleled dedication and She undertakes all tasks with great Committee unbounded team spirit and ensured that enthusiasm, focus and professionalism, The 50th Annual RCEME Golf Tournament The Corps of RCEME played a key role making her a model soldier within the Committee is awarded the Regional within 5 CMBG. He repeatedly volunteers CAF. MCpl Sara Boland has said a large Award for their great efforts in organising for community activities such as the latest part of her success is due to establishing this tournament. RCEME School and edition of the United Way tire clinic, where a professional and mutual relationship of CFB Borden staff have been successfully he supervised the volunteers. trust and respect with her subordinates. organizing and hosting the RCEME Congratulations Sara on your awards! Golf Tournament every year. Given the significance of this event, the team faced D RCEME’s National Cadet Award extraordinary pressure to produce a memorable event above and beyond the • WO Albert Le 2332 Maj EJG Holland NCR/Northern/CANSOFCOM previous 49 tournaments. Demonstrating VC Armoury Region – Cpl Gagné their pride in The Corps of RCEME and • CWO Lee-Anne Lesage 2698 Sieur de Cpl Martin Gagné was awarded their skill as a professional team, the Beaujeu D RCEME’s Regional Award. His tournament was exceptional and worthy unparalleled technical skills and strong of being called the “Golden 50th”. work ethic have enabled him to provide remarkable support to the assaulters and specialists of the unit. His commitment Atlantic Region – Cpl Murphy Erratum: to providing outstanding technical Corporal Myles Murphy was awarded In the article of the French version instruction and guidance had a significant D RCEME’s Regional Award for his titled : «L’École du GEMRC impact on the success of multiple courses leadership and professionalism in accueille le 50e tournoi de golf within the unit, and his input helped supporting 4 ESR’s EROC fleet during annuel du Corps du GEMRC » develop the standard for future training Theatre Opening Exercises and National edition 1-2014, it was mentioned : packages. External to CANSOFCOM, EROC Courses. (...) le prix du plus bas pointage Cpl Gagné provided assistance to the brut chez les hommes a été LCMM for Optical Sighting Systems in the attribué au Cplc Marc Poulin (...). Development of Technical Orders for the RCAF/RCN Region – Cpl Thompson It should have read : « (...) le prix mounting and operation of Sniper Scopes. Cpl Brent Thompson was awarded du plus bas pointage brut chez les His technical skills and dedication to this D RCEME’s Regional Award for his hommes a été attribué au Cplc project will contribute greatly to the CAF exemplary service to The Corps of RCEME Marc Dumoulin (...). » sniper community and the overall technical as an outstanding Vehicle Technician for

28 | RCEME Journal - Edition 2 - 2014 Awards and Recognitions

Director RCEME’s Coin of Excellence

EME Coin #26 – MWO R. Waugh enthusiasm coaching young candidates in training and offering them sound advice. In doing so, he has helped develop their skills and their ability to do the work required and required them to achieve technical excellence in these areas.

EME Coin #49 – D. Walsh For for his huge contribution to the development the highest quality of training, and the of future Weapon Technicians. Mr Walsh is a establishment of RCEME OJT Coy as For demonstrating exceptional leadership, an independent Coy within 2 Svc Bn. dedication, and craftsmanship towards not only the Canadian Armed Forces, but also EME Coin #52 – Cpl E. McNiven the Corps of RCEME throughout his storied career. His consistent esprit-de-corps within our trade is an inspiration to us all.

EME Coin #47 – J.P. Lemire Mr. Lemire has consistently maintained an exemplary professional attitude and been extremely rigorous in monitoring prime asset to The Corps of RCEME. He has For outstanding dedication to the been an incredible help for 5 Svc Bn and for effectiveness and quality of training the units of the 2nd Cdn Div. His exceptional provided to Vehicle Technician technical capacities and innovative teaching apprentices within The Corps of RCEME, methods perfectly exemplify his pride to be part Cpl McNiven’s efforts contributed of the RCEME Corps and the Corps’ Arte motto. directly to the future success of the students and the Corps at large. It is EME Coin #50 – WO C. Hanrahan for his incredible hard work, passion For WO Hanrahan’s outstanding and dedication that Cpl McNiven is contribution to the essence of what The receiving this honour and recognition. Corps of RCEME represents, his relentless candidates in training. Mr Lemire’s work has efforts to promote and demonstrate the EME Coin #53 – MWO J. Turcotte unquestionably contributed to the success Corps values and for his continuous of the EOTL training program. Moreover, dedication and excellence in the his high level of technical expertise and his achievements of his duties. While being enormous dedication have made him an subjected to the standing down of the acknowledged authority in the field of optics Optimized Battle Group and transition and optronics and a model for division from Coyote to Leopard fleets, his technicians, LCMMs and project managers. leadership and dedication ensured the creation of the Leopard Detachment in EME Coin #48 – S. Abbott CFB Gagetown supporting C Squadron Mr. Abbott has shown exemplary (Sqn) RCD withstanding continuous professionalism and unbounded pressures and challenges. In recognition of his ceaseless dedication to both the military and The Corps of EME Coin #51 – MWO E. Dallow RCEME regarding the training of DP1.2 In recognition for his contributions as RCEME technicians. His role as the Senior CSM of RCEME OJT Coy in 2 Svc Technical Advisor saw him prepare for the Bn. MWO Dallow has lent invaluable IT RCEME Working Group by defining the support to The Corps of RCEME by future role and employment of the RCEME providing leadership and mentorship for OJT training with the intent to provide DP1.2 OJT technicians. His continued high standard of DP1.2 training within 4th guidance and assistance has ensured Canadian Division.

RCEME Journal - Edition 2 - 2014 | 29 Awards and Recognitions

EME Coin #54 – Mcpl S. St-Laurent Corps Heritage Collections at the RCEME For the remarkable dedication he constantly School in Borden. He accomplished Commander Canadian Army demonstrates, which is making a invaluable that achievement through hard work, Commendation contribution to the advancement of our displaying altruism to the Corps and corps. Working tirelessly, he played a major a passion to preserve its heritage. LCol F. Lavoie role in instituting a new structure for the technicians associated with PeopleSoft and EME Coin #57 – Maj A. McQuillan DRMIS which, in future, will give us a clearer picture of the efforts being made by our Order of Military members. Merit WO J.C.E. Drouin

Order of Military Merit - 64th List

For his outstanding initiative, his continuous dedication and excellence EME Coin #55 – Maj J. Motl in the achievement of his duties. Maj Motl’s outstanding contributions to The Also for his integrity and team work Meritorious Corps of RCEME have been remarkable. supporting the Canadian Wheeled Service Medal With her corporate knowledge and her Light Armoured Vehicle program. CWO R.J. Thompson attention to details she is guiding with a strong and steady hand the administration EME Coin #58 – A. Beresford For remarkable performance and of The RCEME Corps like no others. She mentorship as the RSM of the training promotes team spirit within and outside advisory group and CDN RSM for the Corps. She formulates opinions based national issues at the Kabul military on an ability to anticipate their potential training centre, Jul 12 to Jun 13 impacts in the context of wider trends and developments. She truly exemplifies The RCEME Corps motto, Arte et Marte.

EME Coin #56 – Adj D. Ferland Congratulation!

Mr Anthony Beresford’s outstanding Major Boland won the 1500m contribution to the Corps’ heritage and event gold medal with a time history, particularly his extraordinary of 4:05.55 at the Canadian work in the creation of the Heritage Masters Championships of Room and its Corps Heritage Collections outdoor track and field. He at the RCEME School in Borden. He plans to participate in the WO Ferland’s outstanding contribution accomplished that achievement through Military World Games CISM to the Corps’ heritage and history, hard work, displaying altruism to the taking place in Korea in the particularly his extraordinary work in the Corps and a passion to preserve its summer of 2015. creation of the Heritage Room and its heritage.

Columns Last Call Cpl (ret’d) Richard Willmore 18 Dec. 2013 Walter Ernest Ruggles 10 Apr. 2014 Peter Lewis 18 Jan. 2014 MWO Lloyd Celester 15 May 2014 MCpl (ret’d) Luc Lavergne 14 Feb. 2014 Rev. Albert James Beveridge 10 Jun. 2014 Sgt (ret’d) Rob Cosgrove 15 Feb. 2014 Orley ‘Wayne’ Potter 28 Jun. 2014 Edison ‘Bud’ Roy Cooke 17 Mar. 2014 Capt (ret’d) William C. Baird 1 Jul. 2014 MWO (ret’d) John Robinson 2 Apr. 2014 MCpl Samuel Boivin 2 Jul. 2014

30 | RCEME Journal - Edition 2 - 2014 Afghanistan A Canadian Story 2001-2014 is a Canadian Afghan mission legacy album which offers readers a chronological compilation of the personal stories and photos of some 150 men and women who served in Afghanistan from 2001 to 2014. The anecdotes include accounts from members of the Canadian Armed Forces, the RCMP, Corrections Canada and the many civilians who participated in the mission in their capacity as Canada whole-of-government contributors. The stories are accompanied by a brief history of Afghanistan and the roles of the Canadian mission, the various service elements and other departments of Canadian government. Messages from Prime Minister Stephen Harper, the CDS General Tom Lawson, the service commanders, the Royal Canadian Legion and others, as well as an introduction by Jack Granatstein, compliment the album.

The project, a wholly private volunteer effort, was the initiative of a number CAF Public Affairs Officers, some of whom served in Afghanistan, and wanted to provide the valiant men and women who participated in the Afghan mission a broader venue to share their personal reminiscences with their families, colleagues and Canadians at large. The editorial team consists of Lt (N) (Retd) Melanie Graham, Capt Susan Magill, LCol Kimberly Unterganschnigg, WO Daniel Ferland and Col (Retd) Andrew Nellestyn. Many individuals gave of their time to make the publication of the album a reality as did the sponsors of which the principal contributor was the Power Workers Union. Proceeds from the sale of the album will be donated to the Edmonton Military Family Resource Centre, the Boomers Legacy Foundation, the Military Families Fund, Operation Dignity St Anne de Bellevue Veterans Hospital Foundation and the Soldier On Fund. The families of those who gave their lives during the mission will each be presented a commemorative copy. The book will be launched in Ottawa in November 2014 as well as across the country.

The legacy album, to be released by November 2014 and priced at $50, can be purchased from Chapters Indigo. Additional details about the project can be found at www.afghanistanacanadianstory.ca.

RCEME Journal - Edition 2 - 2014 | 31 BGen S. Kennedy BGen A. Patch Col (ret’d) A. Nellestyn Col KJ. Hamilton CWO R. Gilbert Colonel Commandant Corps Director Corps SM Directeur du Corps SM du Corps

NDHQ & Northern / QG & Nord : Sr Officer : LCol Fuller Sr NCM : CWO Rouleau Council Mbr : Col Prévost BGen N. Eldaoud Col S. Myers

Col T. Endicott Col S. Bouchard

Col A. Benson Col R. Elvish Heritage Committee Comité héritage Western / Ouest : Sr Officer : LCol MacGregor Sr NCM : CWO Clements Council Mbr : Col Moore

Col J.F. Prévost Col K. Moore

Col R. Dundon Col N. Jardine CWO A. Bergeron CWO G. Godbout CWO J-P Savoie CWO R. Thompson