TUESDAY, MAY 8, 2018 Volume 60, #10
Broombusting at Goose Spit
Members of the 19 Wing Comox Defence Team from Goose Spit. K’omoks First Nation a view of the ocean that joined the broombusting movement on April 30 “It was great to see over 50 military personnel had been lost due to the excessive growth of the – led by Bev Agur and her team of local Broom- volunteer their time and effort to help restore broom. Thank you to all who made this happen Busters, and in cooperation with K’omoks First the land to its original state,” shares LCol Paula – with special thanks to CWO Sexstone, MWO Nation. More than 90 personnel worked together Fraser, Deputy Wing Commander. Baker and MCpl McDonald for all the work they to remove the invasive species, Scotch broom, “The day was a great success and it provided put into ensuring the day was a success.”
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19 Wing Comox participated in two memo- rial services on May 6 to commemorate the Totem Battle of the Atlantic in support of the Roy- al Canadian Naval Association. Members of TIMES 407 Squadron were on parade at the me- morial cairn (anchor) in Comox Marina Park while Wing Commander Col Atkins and A/ WCWO CWO Turriff, along with the com- mand team of 407 (LRP) Squadron, Maj MacDonald and CWO Flood, laid wreaths in remembrance. The command team of 19 Mission Support Squadron, LCol Gillis and CWO Frowen, represented 19 Wing Comox at the Parksville ceremony. The services are dedicated in grateful mem- ory to the men and women of the Royal Ca- MANAGING EDITOR nadian Navy, Canadian Army, Royal Cana- Camille Douglas dian Air Force and the Merchant Marine lost 250-339-8211, ext 8752 during the Battle of the Atlantic from 1939 [email protected] to 1945. Most of the 2,000 officers and men of the RCN who were lost during World War GRAPHIC DESIGNER II perished during the Battle of the Atlantic; Gillian Ottaway Querin 752 personnel of the Royal Canadian Air Force EDITORIAL ADVISOR and the Canadian Army were also lost at, or Capt Brad Little over the sea. The Merchant Navy also paid a heavy price with the loss of 70 ships and DISTRIBUTION 1,700 personnel of between 1939 and 1945. Michael Pearce
A Division of Personnel Battle of the Atlantic Support Programs 19 Wing Comox, PO Box 1000 Stn. Main, remembered Lazo, BC V0R 2K0 [email protected]
MGen Christian Dr- ouin, Commander of 1 Canadian Air Divi- sion, and BGen Dave Cochrane, Com- mander of 2 Cana- dian Air Division sign The Totem Times is an unoffi- cial publication of 19 Wing Co- the papers to trans- mox, BC. The Editor reserves fer command author- the right to edit copy and re- ity of Canadian Forc- ject advertisements to suit es School of Search the needs of the publication. Views expressed are those of and Rescue (CFS- the contributor unless express- SAR) from 2 CAD to ly attributed to DND, CAF, or 1 CAD on April 24. other agencies. In case of ty- CFSSAR has been pographical errors, no goods may be sold and the difference a lodger unit of 19 claimed against this paper. The Wing Comox since paper’s liability is limited to a opening the train- refund of the space charged ing complex in 1998 for the erroneous item. Mate- rial may be reprinted with at- and is now the new- tribution. Published 22 times est unit of 19 Wing. a year, every second Tuesday, (L-R): CWO Jake with permission of Col Mike Boucher, MGen Chris- Atkins, 19 Wing Commander. Publications Mail Registration tian Drouin, BGen No.4098. Printed by Ladysmith Dave Cochrane, and Press, Ladysmith, BC. Circula- CFSSAR Transfer of Command Authority CWO Pierrot Jetté. tion: 1800. MAY 8, 2018 | TOTEM TIMES | 3
眀愀礀瀀漀椀渀琀椀渀猀甀爀愀渀挀攀⸀挀愀 Capt Rebecca Wheaton-Sparkes from 21 CF Health Services Centre and Lt Delanie Chang from 407 Squadron were picked up by 17 Wing Winnipeg to represent Canada West at nationals in Borden from April 22 to 24. Capt Wheaton-Sparkes received MVP recognition during the tour- nament, and Lt Delanie Chang (right) received the overall tournament MVP. Both earned a spot on CISM Team Canada, heading to Edmonton from May 26 to June 5 for the CISM World Volley- ball Championship. Watch for the May 22 edition of the Totem Times for part two of this story.
Are you in need of regular cleaning services for your home or business? Women’s volleyball: the road to CISM Bill and Bonnie Moore are looking for new one-time or regular clients! "Bill and Bonnie are good people CAF Sports offers a vari- plains Comox coach Ken Germany, Netherlands, Sri “I started playing with the and a hard working couple." ety of experiences – from the McDonald. Lanka, Ecuador, China, Bra- women’s military team in "The Moore's do all the little jobs regional level, onto national, The loss was difficult for zil, and France. Winnipeg when I was 17 that it seems many others won't." and sometimes international. the team. “I have played with the years old - before even joining Two members of 19 Wing “Volleyball is a game CISM team since 2010, com- the military. When I learned "They clean corners and baseboards, They wipe down your mouse, phone, vacuum the computer keyboard. They do it all!" Comox have just returned of momentum,” says Capt peting in two world champi- about CISM, it was all I could from the Women’s Volleyball Wheaton-Sparkes. “It flows onships: one in North Caro- think about! I still have that The Moore's have excellent recommendations and affordable rates. Their clients love them, and you will too. National Tournament in Bor- back and forth, and unfortu- lina and last year in Florida,” passion and get goosebumps Call Bonnie at 250.941.8883 for a quote. den with gold medals. nately we couldn’t keep it at says Capt Wheaton-Sparkes. when I think about it. Al- Capt Rebecca Wheaton- the key moments.” Lt Chang has been a part of though travelling abroad to Sparkes from 21 CF Health For Capt Wheaton-Sparkes the program since joining the play is always exciting, play- Services Centre and Lt Dela- and Lt Chang, the oppor- military in 2012, and attend- ing at home is very special. I nie Chang from 407 Squad- tunity to represent Canada ed the Florida championship think it will give us an edge on CLEANING | JANITORIAL | MAINTENANCE ron were picked up by the West with 17 Wing Winnipeg 2017 with Capt Wheaton- the other teams.” 17 Wing Winnipeg team to brought sweet rewards. Sparkes. Both athletes are expect- represent Canada West at Canada West won the “Both of my sisters are in ing to earn a medal from nationals from April 22 to 24. national tournament, Capt the CISM program and this the CISM World Volleyball The 19 Wing Comox team Wheaton-Sparkes received will be our first time playing Championship, though play- participated in Canada West MVP recognition during the together since RMC,” shares ing on the CISM team takes Regionals, held in Winnipeg tournament, and Lt Chang Lt Chang. “My family will a lot of self-motivation and in March, battling five other received the overall tourna- be coming to Edmonton to training. Unlike other coun- teams to represent the west: ment MVP. watch since my twin Lt Cas- tries participating in CISM, Winnipeg, Wainwright, Ed- CISM sidy Chang, and my older there are few opportunities monton, Cold Lake and Es- The pair have had a busy sister Lt (N) Kelsey Chang, to train together as a team, quimalt. travel schedule this year, both are on the team as well.” so each athlete needs to do a They finished first after the attending a national selection Lt Chang is grateful to play lot of individual preparation. round robin without losing a camp in Kingston in January, at an international level. Head Coach for the CISM single set, went on to crush with the top ten identified “Being able to play the Women’s Volleyball Team, Wainwright in the semi- for CISM World Volleyball sport I love on my home turf Joely Christian-Macfarlane, finals, and when they faced Championship hosted in gives me goosebumps just has a lot to offer the team Winnipeg in the finals, lost Edmonton from May 26 to thinking about, I can already at their final training camp the first two sets, came back June 5. feel the Canadian pride and in Edmonton. Meanwhile and won the next two sets, The initial training camp energy.” team manager, MWO Heidi and lost by three points in the was held in Ottawa in March, For Capt Wheaton- Twellmann, is working hard fifth and final set. and a final camp is planned for Sparkes, the dream of play- to bring everyone together. “The reason we lost was May 23 to 25 in Edmonton. ing for CISM Team Canada Watch for the May 22 edi- because our offence couldn’t The CAF team expects was a driving factor for join- tion of the Totem Times for outplay their defence,” ex- to face teams from the US, ing the CAF. their story.
䌀䄀一䄀䐀䤀䄀一 䴀䤀䰀䤀吀䄀刀夀 倀䔀刀匀伀一一䔀䰀 刀䔀䈀䄀吀䔀 倀刀伀䜀刀䄀䴀 ␀㔀 刀䔀䈀䄀吀䔀 ㈀㔀䈀 䌀漀洀漀砀 刀搀⸀ 漀渀 愀渀礀 渀攀眀 䠀漀渀搀愀 䌀漀甀爀琀攀渀愀礀Ⰰ 䈀䌀 䌀伀䴀䔀 䤀一 伀刀 䌀䄀䰀䰀 唀匀 䘀伀刀 䴀伀刀䔀 䤀一䘀伀刀䴀䄀吀䤀伀一 ⴀ ㈀㔀 ⸀㌀㌀㠀⸀㜀㜀㘀 嘀㤀一 ㌀倀㠀 4 | MAY 8, 2018 | TOTEM TIMES Are you fit to drive? DND Road and Vehicle Safety Week May 14 to 18
The act and decision phone use is a prevalent to drive safely lies with example of distracted driv- the driver. Within DND, ing, focusing on stress or the chain of command is strong emotions while responsible for training driving can also serious- drivers on a particular ly cloud a driver’s judg- vehicle, and ensuring a ment. Although we as- vehicle is properly man- sociate strong emotions aged. However, the driver with negative events, such is personally responsible as a stressful day at work, to ensure they are mentally emotions from positive and physically fit to safely events can also be just as operate a DND vehicle. distracting. When behind Here is a checklist of the wheel of a vehicle, it the driver’s responsibili- is important to recognize ties with respect to safe emotion and take the right driving: steps to put one’s focus Training: It is the driv- back on the road. MWO Mike McLeod of 19 Mission Support Squadron is a volunteer at 2943 RCACC and teaches er’s responsibility to en- Impairment: Impairment cadets LCpl Ben Nagy and LCpl Taylor Pringle how to build fires during the corps’ spring Field sure they are capable of is not only a result of al- Training Exercise at Seal Bay on April 29. safely operating the ve- cohol or consumption of hicle, and if the driver illegal drugs, but some does not feel comfortable medications prescribed by behind the wheel, they are health care professionals responsible to request ad- or sold over the counter Campbell River cadets ditional training. can affect ability to drive Fatigue: Fatigue, which due to serious side effects, is considered a form of such as blurred vision or impairment, can seriously dizziness. It is the driver’s train at Seal Bay affect a driver’s ability to responsibility to under- drive safely as a result of stand the side effects of Capt Morgan Arnott, Zone Unit Public Affairs Representative - Comox effects like slower reaction their prescription and ad- times and poor judgment. vise the chain of command Research shows that be- accordingly. Army Cadets from 2943 Exercise. ters, how to identify edible building” said first-year ca- ing awake for 17 hours has Watch for more informa- Royal Canadian Army Ca- This was the first time in plants, and how to build det Lance Corporal Taylor the same effect on driving tion on the DND Road and det Corps (RCACC) and Air recent history which the two snares. The air cadets fo- Pringle of 2943 RCACC. ability as a Blood Alcohol Vehicle Safety Program Cadets from 363 Captain units had a joint training ex- cused their training on first The Cadet Program is for Concentration (BAC) of between May 14 and 18, Brian Barker Royal Cana- ercise with each other, and aid, navigation, and using youth ages 12-18 and aims 0.05, and 24 hours without or drop in to Road and Ve- dian Air Cadet Squadron the cadets greatly enjoyed stoves and lanterns. to develop in youth the at- sleep has the same effect hicle Safety, now located (RCACS), both located in the opportunity to work “I have enjoyed the ca- tributes of good citizenship as a BAC of 0.10. in building 305, adjacent Campbell River, spent the with the other element. maraderie and teamwork and leadership, promote Stress and emotional to the Officers’ Mess and rainy April 27 to 29 week- During the exercise, the this weekend and getting physical fitness and stimu- state: Although mobile building 22. end at Seal Bay during their army cadets learned field- to work with the air cadets late an interest in the sea, joint spring Field Training craft skills such as fire was a good experience. My land and air activities of the building, knots and lash- favourite thing about the Canadian Armed Forces. ings, shelter building and weekend were the skills Visit cadets.ca for more in- 䄀吀吀䔀一吀䤀伀一 䴀䤀䰀䤀吀䄀刀夀 䴀䔀䴀䈀䔀刀匀℀ identifying emergency shel- which I learned such as fire formation. 䌀漀洀攀 漀甀琀 愀渀搀 琀爀礀 漀甀爀 渀攀眀 愀洀愀稀椀渀最氀礀 搀攀氀椀挀椀漀甀猀 愀渀搀 栀攀愀氀琀栀礀 匀琀漀渀攀最爀椀氀氀 䐀椀渀椀渀最 䔀砀瀀攀爀椀攀渀挀攀℀ 吀栀椀猀 甀渀椀焀甀攀 ᰠ搀爀礀 挀漀漀欀椀渀最ᴠ 洀攀琀栀漀搀 椀猀 爀攀挀漀最渀椀稀攀搀 愀猀 戀攀椀渀最 漀渀攀 漀昀 琀栀攀 栀攀愀氀琀栀椀攀猀琀 洀攀琀栀漀搀猀 愀瘀愀椀氀愀戀氀攀 琀漀搀愀礀⸀ 匀椀洀瀀氀攀Ⰰ 栀攀愀氀琀栀礀Ⰰ 搀攀氀椀挀椀漀甀猀 愀渀搀 昀甀渀℀ 䌀漀洀攀 戀礀 愀渀搀 攀渀樀漀礀 琀栀攀 戀攀猀琀 猀琀攀愀欀Ⰰ 栀愀氀椀戀甀琀 漀爀 猀愀氀洀漀渀 礀漀甀 洀愀礀 攀瘀攀爀 琀愀猀琀攀⸀
㈀㌀㔀㔀 䴀愀渀猀昀椀攀氀搀 䐀爀⸀Ⰰ 䌀漀甀爀琀攀渀愀礀 ⨀䰀椀瘀攀 䔀渀琀攀爀琀愀椀渀洀攀渀琀 䘀爀椀⸀ ☀ 匀愀琀⸀⨀ ⨀䈀攀攀爀 愀渀搀 圀椀渀攀 匀琀漀爀攀⨀ ⨀䄀氀氀 漀甀爀 挀漀氀搀 戀攀攀爀 愀渀搀 猀瀀椀爀椀琀猀 愀爀攀 ㈀㔀 ⴀ㌀㌀㐀ⴀ㐀㔀 猀漀氀搀 愀琀 氀椀焀甀漀爀 猀琀漀爀攀 瀀爀椀挀攀猀 漀爀 戀攀氀漀眀⸀⨀ 眀眀眀⸀眀栀椀猀琀氀攀猀琀漀瀀瀀甀戀⸀挀漀洀 MAY 8, 2018 | TOTEM TIMES | 5
A weather balloon is deployed as part of re- Five members of 19 Wing pose with the Canadian Forces Station (CFS) Alert sign during their search being conducted by Environment and deployment to the northernmost permanently inhabited location on Earth. Climate Change Canada (ECCC). 19 Wing members deploy to CFS Alert
Cpl Lia Spruyt, 19 Mission Support Squadron
The winter and spring of remind you how isolated ny. Over the next couple and Russia. 2018 saw a rare opportu- you are and that help is weeks the sun returns more Various studies include nity for several members very far away. Arctic winds and more each day, until monitoring aerosol levels, of 19 Wing Comox. can freeze you instantly, by the end of March, it is mercury levels and the ev- In a unique occurrence, snow blindness can disori- ‘Polar Day’ - 24 hours of er-increasing global CO2 five members found them- ent quickly, and wolves the daylight straight through levels from greenhouse selves deployed to CFS size of small cars roam the until fall. gases. The present CO2 Alert at the same time, fol- region, always watching Unfortunately the return level is around 411 ppm in lowed later by a sixth mem- every move. of the sun does not bring Alert with a global average ber for the semi-annual OP The station offers a sur- warmer temperatures right in 2017 of 407 ppm. The Boxtop. prising amount of comfort away… it was still -35 Earth maintained a natu- Cpl Bernard, Cpl Bour- including social events, Celsius! ral 280 ppm CO2 level for goin, Cpl Spruyt, MCpl lounges, a movie theater, The environment is com- the last ten thousand years, Murray, 2Lt McCall and games room (with ev- plex and intriguing; Alert give or take a few millen- later Cpl Milne were treat- ery version of Catan ever serves as the perfect place niums, until 200 years ago. ed to the exciting experi- made), library, common to study it. The interna- The combination of in- ence. rooms, and daily baking. tionally recognized Global dustrialization (extracting Located on the tip of In a hark back to the first Atmosphere Watch (GAW) resources from the Earth Ellesmere Island, Nuna- naval explorers, there is laboratory, run by Environ- and massive projects such vut, coordinates 82.5018N daily 10 o’clock soup for ment and Climate Change as dams), urbanization 62.3481W, Alert is a few everyone to attend. Canada (ECCC), serves (expanding cities, trans- hundred miles from the Life at the station re- to monitor, measure and portation and heavy con- geographic North Pole. It volves around the weekly study what is happening to struction using concrete) is so far north that even the supply run, also known as the Earth. and deforestation (remov- Aurora Borealis (North- “plane day”. Supply and Scientists deploy here ing Earth’s ability to coun- ern Lights) cannot be seen traffic techs hurry every- year round, although pri- teract our carbon produc- in the sky. The station is where, while others gather marily in the summer, from tion) has been identified closer to Moscow, Russia to quickly move materials, all over the world to gather as the cause of the jump. (4040 km south) than to food and mail inside before data and conduct studies There is no sign of stop- Ottawa, Ontario (4161 km the cold takes its toll. that help better understand ping the current upward south). Our deployment also had the behavior of our atmo- trajectory. Troops from 19 Wing us see the coveted return of sphere, the weather, green- For a tiny little station Comox were employed in daylight. Alert experiences house gas emissions, and that comprises of a smat- various positions around ‘Polar Night’ during the other events from around tering of buildings, it is the base, including gen- winter months, 24 hours the planet such as volcano an understatement to say eral duty, firefighting, sup- of darkness, until the end eruptions. it has a huge impact on ply, IT tech, and logistics of February when some With equipment so everyone lucky enough to officer. The station has to twilight begins to appear sensitive you can’t even visit. Although a plane will operate solely under its again. breath near some of it, they eventually take you away - own resources with every- During the first week of can detect the tiniest par- maybe to joint USAF/ Den- one helping out to ensure March, as the Earth tilts on ticles moving around the mark base at Thule, Green- a task is completed. Safety its axis again, we welcome world to expose how we land where you can get an is never compromised and back the light on the first affect our planet. This in- amazing pizza at the Top it doesn’t take much to see day the sun is visible over cludes detecting the Cher- of The World Club - being why. the horizon. Traditionally nobyl and Fukushima ra- able to call Alert home for a One look across the bar- this is marked with the an- diation, as well as carbon while is an experience like ren tundra landscape will nual Polar Sunrise ceremo- from forest fires in the US no other. 6 | MAY 8, 2018 | TOTEM TIMES MAY 8, 2018 | TOTEM TIMES | 7
Snowbirds and CF-18 Demo Team perform for 19 Wing 19 Wing Defence Team members and their families gathered on April 24 to observe the final airshow practices of the 431 Air Demonstration Squadron (Snowbirds) and CF-18 Demo Team. “19 Wing has been instrumental in sup- porting a successful airshow training sea- son and the teams wanted to show their appreciation for all the hard work and sup- port they’ve received,” said LCol Curtis Wright, 19 Operations Support Squadron Commanding Officer. After their practice the teams took time to meet with the audience, as customary fol- lowing an airshow. Their first show of the season just took pace in North Carolina, and their last will take place in mid-Octo- ber with a military family home-closer in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan. 8 | MAY 8, 2018 | TOTEM TIMES Viktor Davare Cecile Turnbull
CVPS members hone their skills at 19 Wing Members of the Comox Valley Photographic Society (CVPS) were treated to a visit to 19 Wing Comox on April 19 to capture the airshow practices of the 431 Air Demonstration Squadron (Snowbirds) and CF-18 Demo Team from the flight line. “The light that morning wasn’t great,” explains Bill Turnbull, CVPS vice president. “I know that we have hundreds - maybe thousands - of images taken under better conditions on other days.” However, the flight line provided a unique perspective and opportunity to explore their photography skills. CVPS president Kerry Dawson was pho- tographed lying on the tarmac to photograph the CF-18, a posture that few community members have the chance to experience. The CVPS proudly shared the best images of the day. To see the whole album, visit our Facebook page at Facebook.com/19WingTotemTimes. Bill Turnbull Judy Johnston Cindy Powell Peter Kendell Rick Leche Steve Ray MAY 8, 2018 | TOTEM TIMES | 9 Mountain bike for Camp Boomer: compassion dogs now recruiting! Camp Boomer – a new Three mountain biking en- fundraising event for Boom- thusiasts got together in 2016 er’s Legacy - will take place to ride from Port Alberni to on Saturday, June 16 at Gla- the Comox Valley to raise cier Gardens Arena at 19 funds for Vancouver Island Wing Comox. Compassion Dogs (VICD), Centered upon a military Recruiting now promotional code “CB2018” and when the Rotary Club camp theme, participants Camp Boomer is open to will provide an early bird dis- of Strathcona Sunrise agreed will walk, run or cycle two the public in partnership with count of $15. And additional that it was a worthy endeav- designate routes over six the Comox Air Force Mu- $150 in pledged donations is our, and the Rotary Ride for hours. seum, 888 (Komox) Wing required to qualify for par- VICD was born. With the support of local Royal Canadian Air Force ticipation. Now the third annual, the military units, cadets, and Association, Vancouver Is- Be sure to bring the whole trio is welcoming all trail veteran’s groups, this event land Compassion Dogs, the family out – Camp Boomer riders an opportunity to join promises to be a day of physi- Rotary Club of Strathcona will provide unique experi- the 80 km cross-country ride. cal effort and remembrance Sunrise, Marine Harvest, and ences and display throughout The ride will begin at the of the fallen, as customary various military and cadet or- the day at Glacier Gardens Port Alberni logging trails at Boomer’s Legacy events. ganizations. Arena, the Heritage Air Park, on Saturday, June 16 and The aim is to raise funds Camp Boomer is recruit- and at 888 (Komox) Wing, conclude at Camp Boomer, that Canadian Armed Forces ing now! Register alone or as along with a salmon BBQ a concurrent event this will personnel can access to help a team at boomerslegacybc. and canteen. Watch for a full take place at Glacier Gardens with humanitarian efforts in ca. The cost is $50 per par- list of partners and event tim- Arena at 19 Wing Comox. the communities where they ticipant, but until May 31, the ings at boomerslegacybc.ca. Registration is $150 per MCpl Russ Thompson, an instructor at 19 serve. rider, including a charitable Wing Readiness Training Flight, connected with Boomer’s Legacy tax receipt for a $100 dona- friends Gordon Nettleton (centre) and Dave Boomer’s Legacy is named tion, a VICD t-shirt, and a McDonald (kneeling with a VICD pair) in 2016 after Corporal Andrew salmon dinner provide by to establish a mountain biking fundraiser for “Boomer” Eykelenboom, a Marine Harvest at Camp Vancouver Island Compassion Dogs (VICD). dedicated soldier and a Cana- Boomer. Veteran advocate Barb Ashmead (right) co- dian Forces medic who was All funds raised will be do- founded VICD with dog trainer and behaviour- killed by a suicide bomber nated to the Vancouver Island ist Mike Annan. Together they have helped cre- on August 11, 2006. Boom- Compassion Dogs Society ate bonds for 29 pairs. The third annual event er was committed to saving to help match military and is open to all mountain bikers – register now lives and helping the Afghan RCMP veterans with Post- at vicompassiondogs.ca. people; his death was the Traumatic Stress Disorder catalyst to creating this char- (PTSD) with a service dog. about to disassociate from the to visit Camp Boomer on ity to help men and women in “Two of the things I love reality that you and I know – June 16 and await the arrival uniform make a positive dif- are mountain biking and and they do this before the of the mountain bikers. ference in the lives of others. my dog,” explains MCpl veteran is aware they’ve been “Our goal is to raise suf- His humanitarian spirit Thompson. “It is a privilege triggered. The dog is trained ficient funds to train one ser- lives on through Boomer’s to help others that need it. to intervene and therefore vice dog team, and the cost Legacy – a program of Sup- Once I learned how effec- improve the quality of life for is approximately $28,000,” port Our Troops that is com- tive a trained service dog can their partner.” says MCpl Thompson. mitted to “Helping our Sol- be at helping veterans with Marine Harvest is provid- To learn more about the diers Help Others at Home PTSD, it was easy to step up. ing a salmon BBQ all day at VICD program, to donate, or and Abroad.” Funds raised to It amazes me that a trained Camp Boomer, with all pro- to sign up for the mountain date have been used for basic dog can detect physiological ceeds going to VICD. Mem- bike fundraiser ride, visit vi- humanitarian needs, medical changes in someone who is bers of the public are invited compassiondogs.ca. care, and education.
19 Wing Comox Yacht Club fea- tures a very popular kayak di- vision that offers an ocean kay- KAYAK TRAINING ak fleet including all the gear you’ll need to get out on the water year-round. For a low yearly club membership and kayak rental fee, you and your family can enjoy unlimited use of the kayaks. New members must complete a kayak train- ing course that involves two sessions: one in the pool at the 19 Wing Fitness and Communi- ty Centre, and one on the wa- ter at Goose Spit.
The next pool kayak train- ing session will be held on Wednesday, May 16, 5:30 to 10 p.m. Part 2 will be held on Friday, May 18 from 4 to Email [email protected] to register. 6 p.m. at the kayak club. 10 | MAY 8, 2018 | TOTEM TIMES
Comox Military Family Resource Centre 1575 Military Row 250.339.8290 CAFconnection.ca facebook.com/comoxmfrc
Comox MFRC Employee of MFRC youth the Quarter: Anita Pitman volunteers recognized Anita Pitman joined the Cathy Stotts, executive childcare team in Septem- director, Comox Military ber 2015. She is a military Family Resource Centre. spouse who came with “She embraced the chal- her husband and five chil- lenge to create a program dren from Nova Scotia. that gives children the op- Anita holds a Bachelor portunity to participate of Applied Arts Degree in small group activities, (Child & Youth Study). geared to their interest and Once she moved to BC, developmental needs. The she applied for her Early program is interesting and Childhood Educator and exciting, with lots of op- Special Needs certification portunities to explore, dis- and started at the Kinnikin- cover and where science nik Childcare Centre as a becomes alive. Anita spent substitute educator. many volunteer hours plan- Within a short period ning and creating a play she moved to an assis- space that is inclusive and Three youth volunteers at the Comox MFRC received appreciation tant position in the Early small group oriented.” awards for their contributions throughout the year. Jayden McFee, Learning program and in Anita believes that we Danica Houde and Logan McCoy were honoured as being exception- March 2016 was offered children attending kinder- have a window of oppor- al youth role models. a supervisor position for a garten. tunity to allow the children Dani Porter, youth services coordinator at the Comox MFRC notes, new program, called “Big “Anita has gone through to open their minds and “Danica and Logan have gone over and above this year, volunteering Wings”. In September 2017 tremendous changes, explore the world around at every kids club and preteen night. They bring positivity, kindness Anita took on another new growth and challenges in them, which definitely and pure happiness with them each night and it really does have a program, called the Thun- her program with a good shows when you enter her positive impact on the younger youth.” derbirds, a program for sense of humour,” shares program.
A tribute to military moms Norm Blondel Mother’s Day has become is off on a new posting: bours and a new community. an institution where we cel- l Frequent packing and Tackling these things ebrate that warm presence in moving. would put steel in the spine Prisym Renewable our daily lives, as Brits would l Finding a new place to in any wife and mother. say, “Our Mum.” live. For the military wife, it’s The challenges faced in l Selling the old place, if a given. Developments Inc motherhood, from marriage, applicable, or cleaning mili- child-birth and a growing tary housing to DND’s exact- Once a member of 407 Cyrill Werlen and his team family, are stern ones at best ing standards! Long Range Patrol Squad- at Cascadian Woodtech to for any wife and mother, and l Changing doctors, den- ron, now an energizer of the combine the natural beauty their accomplishments should tists and schools for the kids. Comox Valley through solar of timber frame with the indeed be celebrated, as they l Dealing with a different energy, Kyrle Symons attri- newest technologies in so- are each year in early May. provincial bureaucracy for butes many of his strengths lar energy. Mothers come in many health cards, driving licenses in his business to his mili- Together these compa- varieties and personalities, and insurance. tary career. nies are paving the way but on this occasion I would l Mundane things, like a Kyrle worked his way to better integrate solar like to pay tribute to a brand new hair salon. around 19 Wing Comox energy into the building of wife and mother who fac- l Handling the kids’ reac- following graduation from envelope, and they aren’t es challenges not normally tion to changes in places and RMC in 2011, working the stopping. This new team is faced by her civilian coun- schools, like giving up their Norm Blondel was the edi- ops desk at 442 Sqn, as a bringing their experience terpart: the military spouse. old friends and making new tor of the Totem Times from MCSO at Wing Ops, and and inspiration to Builders There are dozens, prob- ones. That can be quite a 1990 to 1995 as a civilian, then as a NavCom on the In Company, a network- ably hundreds, of military or challenge in its own, particu- after a long parallel career CP140 Aurora at 407 Sqn. Kyrle Symons ing group for building and former military wives in the larly with teens. in the RCAF with many base Kyrle’s time at 19 Wing trades professionals. They Comox Valley, brought here l Cancelling and re-book- newspapers, beginning in provided many great friend- new ways to bring solar en- are working to fit solar in a spouse’s posting to CFB ing cable, telephone, internet 1958 at CFB Greenwood. ships, exhilarating times on ergy into the lives of Comox into new homes - from the Comox, or by choice upon and other services. Prior to that he wrote in the exercise, and deployment Valley residents. ground up. retirement from the service l Sending out change of Haltonian journal of the RAF experience in Op Impact His passion for design From solar structures to from other places. address notifications. Apprentice School, where he that brought real value to his and innovation are his com- roof integrated solar, to so- The challenges faced by a l Putting up with scratched trained as an aircraft electri- military experience. petitive edge. The adop- lar carports and EV char- military spouse can be quite and dented furniture - and cal technician. He was also Now a leader in the re- tion of solar is becoming gers, Kyrle is lighting up serious; for example, when broken items like crockery, editor of Contrails magazine, newable energy space steadier and Kyrle is finding the lives of Comox Valley her partner goes to war. glassware, or ornaments that 888 (Komox) Wing, Royal through his company, Pri- better ways for all of us to residents – improving our Here are some others, some result in a loss of personal Canadian Air Force Asso- sym Renewable Develop- access these technologies. community like so many shared, but often left to the effects. ciation. He served for a total ments Inc., Kyrle is finding He recently teamed up with CAF veterans before him. wife to do when the spouse l Adapting to new neigh- of 38 years, retiring in 1987. MAY 8, 2018 | TOTEM TIMES | 11 97.3 The Eagle Calling all personnel to Volunteerswanted the Junior IN THE COMOX VALLEY Ranks’ Mess! Relay For Life in The Junior Ranks’ Mess is open every Comox Valley Saturday night to June 8 - 10 any mess member and their guest be- Comox Valley Sports Centre McHappy Day raises tween 6:00 p.m. and Volunteers are needed to assist with set up on midnight. Friday, June 8, and tear down on Sunday, June 10. money for local charity Tasks includes setting up scaffolding, stages, a Get together with site kitchen, and smaller tents. Search Relay For Acting Wing Commander LCol Steve Gillis, along with Acting Wing friends, enjoy some Life Comox Valley for more information. Chief Warrant Officer CWO Darrell Frowen represented 19 Wing pool, darts, shuffle- Comox at McHappy Day® on May 2, providing service with big board, ping-pong, smiles from the Lerwick Road McDonalds. foozeball, or air Since McHappy Day was first introduced in 1977, the national one- hockey. Board games Camp Boomer day fundraising event has raised more than $61 million for Ronald McDonald House Charities® Canada, the Ronald McDonald Hous- and cards are always June 15 - 16 es® and hundreds of local children’s charities across Canada, in- available, or use the Glacier Gardens Arena big screen for gam- cluding the Comox Valley Child Development Association (CVCDA). Centered upon a military theme, participants will Over the past three years McHappy Day has raised over $27,000 ing – or to catch a walk, run, or cycle for six hours while a host of towards the CVCDA’s construction of the Autism Centre of Excel- game. displays and events will be offered by military lence in downtown Courtenay. CVCDA has reached almost 70% of Saturday night hours units and veterans groups. Camp Boomer promises to be a day of physical its fundraising goal with plans moving forward to begin construc- will continue through tion. Support for this important project continues, with 50% of effort, remembrance of the fallen, and raising McHappy Day proceeds being allocated towards the new centre. until June. money for troops to contribute to humanitarian efforts wherever they serve. Volunteers receive an event t-shirt, refresh- ments throughout, and an appreciation event. MFRC Family Visit boomerslegacybc.ca to get involved now! Education Bursary Golf Tournament Vancouver Since its inception by the MFRC board of directors, the Comox MFRC Family Education Bursary Program has assisted depen- Island MusicFest dents (spouses and youth) of military members with the costs of FITNESS SPORTS & RECREATION their post-secondary education. Located in the 19 Wing Fitness and July 13 - 15 In the past five years alone, the Family Education Bursary Pro- Community Centre at 1575 Military Row Comox Valley Exhibition Grounds gram has provided $20,000 in support. Funded solely by the fund Vancouver Island MusicFest needs approximate- raising activities undertaken by the MFRC board of directors, this Monday to Friday: 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. ly 1,200 volunteers to help run the festival, in- essential program provides important financial support to assist Saturday and Sunday: 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. cluding set up in the four days leading up to con- 19 Wing military families to pursue their chosen career goals. Statutory Holidays: 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. cert weekend. Sign up early for the best choice The overwhelming response from bursary recipients has been Military users only: 7 – 8:30 a.m. and of position, and attend the volunteer pre-fest that these bursary funds have made their journey easier, and 11:30 a.m - 1 p.m., Monday to Friday party on May 12! that they appreciate the assistance in realizing their visions and Fitness, Sports and Recreation: Visit islandmusicfest.com to sign up now! dreams. 250-339-8211, local 7173/ 6989 Join the MFRC board of directors on Friday, June 8 for their Sports Stores Counter: second annual MFRC Family Education Bursary Golf Tourna- 250-339-8211, local 8315 ment. All proceeds from this event will be returned to 19 Wing military families through the Family Education Bursary pro- CAFconnection.ca/Comox Filberg Festival grams, and the MFRC will provide a tax receipt for the donation facebook.com/19WingComoxPSP portion of the event registration fee. July 31 - August 8 For more information or to register, contact Ryan at treasurer@ The sports field is now open! This is a great opportunity to contribute to the comoxmfrc.ca. community the prestigious Filberg Festival! Volunteers receive and Appreciation Dinner to kick off the event, complimentary entrance to the festival, BC Day fireworks viewing from the Padre’s Corner Tea House lawn, light snacks and beverages, and a festival t-shirt. Our Lady of the Sacred Heart St. Michael and All Angels Contact Frederic Cote at Frederic.Cote8@forc- (RC) 19 Wing Chapel Protestant Chapel es.gc.ca to sign up! 嘀椀猀椀琀 甀猀 漀渀 䘀愀挀攀戀漀漀欀℀ Sunday Mass: 10:00 a.m. Sunday Worship: 10:00 a.m. Weekday Mass: 11:00 a.m. Tuesday Protestant Communion: celebrated and Thursday on the first and third Sunday of each month. Sacrament of Reconciliation: upon request. Bible Study: please contact Chaplain for the dates and times.
Marriage preparation: please contact the Chaplain at least six months prior to date of wedding. Baptisms: please make an appointment with the Chaplain. For information contact the chaplains’ office at 250-339-8211, local 8389. ⼀㤀圀椀渀最吀漀琀攀洀吀椀洀攀猀 12 | MAY 8, 2018 | TOTEM TIMES
Recruiting now! Camp Boomer is a day of physical effort and remembrance of the fallen. Join us to raise funds to help our troops contribute to humanitarian efforts, wherever they serve. Walk, run, or cycle for six hours - register alone or WALK | RUN | CYCLE as part of a team! Recruiting now at SATURDAY, JUNE 16 BOOMERSLEGACYBC.CA