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LORD STRATHCONA’S HORSE (ROYAL CANADIANS)
LdSH (RC) Society 4520 Crowchild Trail SW Calgary, AB T2T 5J4 Volume 17, No. 2 Newsletter Editor: ‘Mucker’ Al Langan Fall, 2002 Message from the Colonel of the Regiment Summer 2002 marked a change in the nications among Strathconas everywhere leadership of the Strathconas. LCol Jim by means such as this Newsletter, the Ellis handed over the Commanding Officer Strathcona website, the publication of position to LCol Jamie Cade and LGen the series of histories, by supporting the Jim Fox, the Colonel of the Regiment reunions he has helped to bring us all clos- appointment to me. Jim Ellis has moved not er together. For these and many, many far away to Land Force Western Area HQ in other actions the Strathconas have been Edmonton. Jim Fox, after almost ten years very well served by his stewardship and we of loyal and dedicated service as our are all grateful. Colonel, has returned to retirement in The Change of Command parade was Mahone Bay, Nova Scotia, although I sus- ingeniously arranged by the RSM, (CWO) pect that it will not be a long respite. Dave Biener, to camouflage the thinned I want to thank Jim for the excellence of ranks due to “RECCE” Squadron’s de- his guidance and leadership for the whole ployment in Afghanistan and “B” Squad- of the Regimental family. For those who are ron’s block leave prior to service in not aware of all that he has done, let me Bosnia, with tanks, Coyotes, other Regi- mention a few that seem to me to have real- mental vehicles, the Mounted Troop, the ly strengthened the fabric of the Strathcona Historical Vehicles Troop, the Strathcona family. He set in place the whole approach Pipe and Drum Band, the Artillery Band to the celebrations of our first 100 years of and hundreds of spectators. Her Honour, service and kept the momentum going. the Lt. Governor of Alberta, Lois Hole, Relations with HRH Prince Charles, our MGen Clive Milner, Colonel Commandant Colonel in Chief, are very close and we now of the Armoured Corps and Col. Stuart have mechanisms for his recognition of out- Beare, the Brigade Commander officiated. standing service by individuals and superi- The event was well attended by Strath- or performance by the Squadrons of the conas, in uniform and retired, and their Regiment. By encouraging better commu- Col Mark Egener –continued on page 14 Comments from the Commanding Officers Hatch With my “stuff” stowed neatly in the CO’s as the August temperatures rarely rose office and LCol Jim Ellis’ “junk” on its way above single digits. to Goodwill, it is appropriate I begin by “RECCE” Squadron arrived home on 28 thanking everyone who came to the Change July to a stunning display of patriotism and of Command parade on 18 July and the appreciation from the citizens of Edmon- many others who provided kind words of ton and the Nation as a whole. Padre support. It is comforting to begin the “best Tracey Moore also returned from Camp job in the Army” with such encouragement. Snoopy, Qatar, where he was part of the I also wish to thank, LCol Jim Ellis, a good Combat Service Support Company support- friend who left me a well led, disciplined ing the Battle Group in Afghanistan. It goes and professional Regiment. without saying how proud we are of the As usual, the Regimental pace has not Strathcona involvement in the War slowed. June saw the Regiment deployed in Against Terrorism. Kananaskis Country on Op GRIZZLY Earlier in August, I had the good fortune (support to the G8 Conference for securi- to attend the Armoured Officer Graduation ty). Security was so effective; the troops ceremonies in CFB Gagetown. Assisting me referred to it as the “big camping trip”. “B” with the “badging” of our new officers was Squadron, the Prince of Wales Squadron, John Swanton, a WWII Strathcona. In under the command team of Major Scotty between LCol ‘Spike’ Hazleton’s leg- Long and SSM Joe Ramsay, is no longer endary social events, I was able to speak to, ours as they are now under operational under the watchful eye of CWO Russ Ells, command of 1 PPCLI in preparation for the largest contingent of Strathcona’s out- their deployment to Bosnia in October. side the Regiment. Of note, they also Their war-fighting training in Wainwright proved extremely realistic for a winter tour LCol J. Cade CD –continued on page 14
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Letters Letters Letters Letters Letters Howdy Mucker, Old Guard and all Museum, Mounted Troop and the Fami- Armd Regt in Borden. Both units in Borden Strathconas past and present. Having ly Support Group, etc. Keep going became part of a Post War Transition known recently returned from attending the Straths; we are a terrific family. as “Interim Force”. After moving to Cal- Change of Command parade and cere- Perseverance. gary we were back to a single title “LdSH monies in Edmonton I would like to say Vic Binnie (RC) (2nd Armd Regt))” and now a Reg- what an impressive event it was. Thanks to Kelowna, BC ular Force. Kathy Stephen’s (CO’s secretary) ar- (Vic, you amplify the very essence of Only a few of the original war-time rangements on request of both CO’s, past esprit de corps etc. A big thank you for Straths elected to stay in the service and and present. I was given the VIP treatment your generous donation. Ed) were mainly those who had been in the all the way, from the time I was met at the Permanent Force (PF’ers) before the Thank you for sending the Newsletter, airport until I was escorted to Kelowna by war and wanted to carry on with their which was special to me since Jim’s pass- a former Commanding Officer LCol D.N.D. careers in the Regular Force. The nucleus ing in June last year. Also I am delighted Deane-Freeman and his charming wife of the Regt formed in Borden were consist- that you included Jim’s article and group Jeanne. ed mainly of soldiers from different over- picture about the RECCE troop in this edi- My many thanks to (my shadow) Capt seas Armd Regts who had volunteered for tion. I am only sorry that he did not live to Stu MacLean and the staff car driver MCpl the Pacific Theatre. They were in Borden see it in print. Enclosed are the Information Derrick Osmand for ensuring that I was in on VJ Day. Then those who wanted to stay Form filled in as requested and a donation the right place at the right time. To see the in the Army were posted to either of the to help with the Newsletter expenses. new Commanding Officer LCol Jamie two regular forces Armd regiments. Others Thanking you again for your thoughtful- Cade the son and third generation Strath- who would make up these units were Armd ness. cona, of my PF buddy (Colonel (ret’d)) personnel still in training in Borden and a Dorothy Adair Jack Cade, was the highlight and purpose few from other Training Centres. Barrhead, AB of my attendance. A family history that I Well ‘Mucker’ that’s it. Have I got you (Thank you for your kind comments doubt could be repeated. The family event, confused enough? Congratulations on your and donation. Hope you continue to later that evening at the hotel, added to the Commendation for the great job you do. enjoy future editions of the Newsletter. pride of both the Cade families, especially Enclosed a donation to assist with the Ed) when his three younger sisters roasted Newsletter expenses. their brother Jamie. My congratulations to The enclosed picture showing Innis Bob Bartlett Calgary, AB all, it made me extremely proud to be a McKay (with the stripes) and myself on a (Soon got out of the confusion Bob, Strathcona as I’m sure it did to all others 48 hour pass to Toronto, We were both on when I saw your donation. Appreciated. that attended the parades and ceremonies. pass from the 2nd – 2nd Armd Regt sta- Ed) Except for my impaired vision and hear- tioned in Camp Borden. ing I am enjoying good health. I therefore Some readers may not be aware, that at I was only with the Strathconas a short extend a speedy recovery to all that are one time in our history, we had two Regi- while, so I did not get to know many. From not, Hugh Mackie, Ken Burgess, Stan ments. Just after the WW2 the original 2nd September 1943 I was in “B” Squadron Adams, Jack Cade, Gladys MacKay, Armd Regt (LdSH (RC)) had not disbanded Headquarters under Capt Milroy (he Percy Buzza, Ray McMullen, and many and for the most part was still in Europe. showed up on Xmas day with his crown’s), others in the same saddle. Meanwhile, back in Canada, on the cessa- and in January 44 I went to 2nd Troop. Not Mucker, I am extremely pleased with tion of hostilities in late 1945, the Govern- many of them are left, I can only think of your efforts in keeping up the good stan- ment took steps to prepare for peacetime Des Ramsay, Bill England, Jack Hall dard and the noticeable interest and partic- soldiering again. So two Armd Regts, the and of course the L/Cpl (ret’d) Jim ipation from the newer members of the RCD’s for Eastern Canada and the LdSH Spencer. Jim and I survived when our tank Regiment. It is obvious that this could not (RC) for Western Canada, were formed was hit 30 May 44. be achieved if it were not for the financial in Camp Borden. So now we had a 1st-2nd It was at the service for Bob Ellerbeck backing of donations. This applies not only Armd Regt still active overseas. The RCD’s in Oct 2001 that we were informed that Jim to the Newsletter, but the many projects of were in the same situation with their 1st-1st Spencer had passed away the day before. I the Regimental Society, such as the Armd Regt still overseas and the 2nd-1st was at the funeral of Harry Davidson in Sep 2001; my younger daughter is married to Harry’s nephew, so I had seen him a few times the past few years. I see Bert Rosler has gone. Outside of Bob Greene’s article I see few names I recognize. Knowing so few is partly why I haven’t gone to the past couple of reunions. The Newsletter is of a very high quality magazine and I believe you and the staff are to be applauded and be proud of your accomplishments. It, hopefully, continues to be beneficial to the “old” Straths and maybe especially for the “newer” Straths. Enclosed is a donation to help with its pub- lication. Best of luck for the future. Jim Fargey Carman, MB (Thanks for your kind remarks and also your generous donation. Ed) –continued on page 4
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The RSM’s corner Welcome back “RECCE” Sqn. Great to ote, so they too can go to Bosnia in Mar 03. Change of Command parade. Then, last but have you back at home (even if you don’t Sometimes I think that someone in Ottawa not least, the welcome back parade for show up for work until some time in 2003!). does not want us to be together as a Regi- “RECCE” Sqn. Congratulations, on a job well done in ment any more. I know that you are probably getting Afghanistan. Unfortunately, by the time Those of us that did not deploy on Op tired of me saying how busy we are, but you start up again “B” Sqn will have Apollo, we did manage to fill in the calen- when you have some troops that have been already deployed to Bosnia so you won’t dar with events such as Suffield gun camp; in three sqn’s in as many months, there get a chance to say goodbye! That of course Combat team live firing, Canadian vs Amer- must be something going on. As the Army leaves “C” Sqn to re-role from tank to Coy- ica Cup, Op Grizzly (G8 in Kananaskis), the and the Cdn Forces continue to change, so too does the Corps and the Regiment. Everything from vehicles to floppy hats (our new headdress while deployed on Regimental Museum Report operations). Keeping pace with the As I sit and write, I find it hard to believe 30,000 people through the in-house and changes that come from all angles is a real that we are into the fall season and another outreach programs. The Family Remem- challenge. The days of “jump in that vehicle year is winding down already. While there is brance Day Service saw 500 parade partici- and start it up” have been replaced with; still much to do within the next few months pants and about 5000 in attendance. This is “we don’t have anyone qualified on that”. we have accomplished much at the Muse- the busiest 5 weeks of the year. This pro- Courses seem to be longer than ever and um. gram just keeps getting bigger each year now have to be “squeezed in” when not on The Society Annual General Meeting and I recommend you attend if you are in tour. More often than not, it appears that held in Edmonton during our Moreuil the Calgary area on November 11. the “keep it simple” adage has been Wood celebrations, saw some many need- This year our gallery improvement will replaced with “make it as complex and con- ed changes approved. These included the be the WW II area. By the time this is print- voluted as possible” (and I’m not talking approval of an acquisition fund for the ed it will be complete and will tell the story Regimental level). museum and the culling of the collection of the regiment “From the Italy Cam- The Corps continues to wrestle itself and which allows us to de-accession some non- paign, through North West Europe, to the Army regarding the tank. The future related artifacts in our collection. Any the Liberation of Holland. This improve- may see us parking not only the tank but monies raised will go to the betterment of ment will allow us to expand in the future the beret as well. The focus is in a wheeled our collection. Some items have already as the regiment has already deployed to Army. I guess the lessons of RV 81 are long been disposed of to their rightful homes Kosovo and Afghanistan and we antici- gone, tracked vehicles dragged (all such as the Fort Garry Horse Museum, pate donations from the regiment, DHH wheeled vehicles into position). Sherbrooke Hussars and the RCA and members on deployment. I think it would be fair to say that the sol- Museum. MCpl Todd Giberson continues I cannot say enough about our dedicated diers of the Regiment did an excellent job to catalogue the collection and build a data- volunteers. Through it all, they manage to of saying farewell to both LCol Ellis and base of all our artefacts. This has been an put on a smile and greet our visitors. Unfor- LGen (retd) Fox, during the Change of ongoing task and will take several years to tunately our volunteer numbers are down Command and Change of Col of the Regi- complete, as files have to be built on every to only a handful and I hesitate to say they ment parade. For those who could not item. On June 21st Todd and his wife don’t look much better in the near future. attend everything went extremely well. Laura welcomed a new arrival to their fam- The age of our volunteer base is creeping Best wishes from all ranks to both you and ily with their first-born Brady Scott. Con- up and there is no one waiting to take these your families. (PS, Col Ellis, you still owe gratulations to you both! veterans places. If you are in the Calgary me a beer from Zagreb). Thank you to all Cpl Lee Ramsden continues to build the area and looking for something meaningful involved in the set up and tear down, for archives in anticipation of the museum to do in your spare time please do not hes- the change of command parade. You are too expansion, which is expected to happen itate to contact us. There are many differ- many to mention, but you and I know who within the next few years. This year he was ent ways to volunteer and if your not sure if you are, well done. lucky to have assistance when Jazwinder it is right for you, give us a call. As we drive full speed ahead towards Singh came to us through the Treasury It is with pride and a touch of sadness Christmas, we once again have a Sqn Board employment program. Unfortunately that I wrap up this article. This will be my deployed for the holidays. This is not easy Jaz’s contract expired in June and his smil- last as I prepare for retirement in April 2003 for either the families or the troops, but I ing face will be dearly missed. Thanks for and WO Ted MacLeod has been named as know that the family support gang, under all your hard work Jaz. When Cpl Ramsden my successor and will join us end 2002. I WO Hepburn will do their best to help thinks he may have a quiet moment com- would like to take this opportunity to thank those in real need. As sad as I am to see “B” ing, he is more often than not sadly mistak- all those who have helped to make my job depart (or Prince of Wales Sqn) this en, when numerous requests for informa- easier. In part the Regiment and Society for should keep SSM Ramsay out of my office tion are received. On an average we receive their support all the volunteers who I have for a couple of months. approximately 5 requests a week. These had the pleasant opportunity to work with For those retired Strathcona’s out there, can range from simple questions to major and in particular MCpl Giberson and Cpl in newsletter country, you can rest easy. The research. Some research requests can take Ramsden for their untiring hard work and men and women of the Regiment including weeks or even months of continuous work perseverance. These individuals have made of course our Combat Support personnel to complete. He continues to do outstand- it happen over the past few years. From are all doing their best to maintain the high ing work for world-class researchers and Celebration 2000 activities, to the com- standards of performance and professional- facilities around the world. plete reorganization of the collection and ism that you set many years ago! Perseverance. Just when you think it is safe to take a archives, the countless hours they volun- (CWO) RSM D.M. Biener CD deep breath, the Remembrance Day teered their time through bingos and casi- activities at the Museum of the Regi- nos to all the little events at the museum. I ments are ready to go. This is our busiest could not have made possible half the things time and all staff and volunteers participate accomplished without your efforts. in some way. Last year we hosted just over WO Darryl Crowell, MB, CD
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Letters Letters continued fired on. Boettcher went over to Jimmy Some year’s back, the Commanding Offi- Thank you for the Fax inquiring about Mathews tank where he was wounded. cer asked if I would like to remain in con- the Lost Trails Strath living in Sechelt, BC. Next morning we were ordered to pull tact with the Strathconas I told him that I I indeed am the Ernie Babcock, previous- back. There was one tank that had no one would be delighted to do so. My father ly of Westbank. Moved to Langley in 96, left to operate it so a member of another (Major Frank Richmond), a veteran of then on to Sechelt in 2000. Some may say tank had to drive it. As we were pulling the Moreuil Wood battle (“A” Sqn) in “moving is cheaper than paying rent”, not back a tank was hit and brewed killing Bert WW1, had recently passed away. so in our case as we purchased a home here Roper, Fred Fidler was burnt pretty bad, Since my husband (Donald) and I have in the “Sunshine Coast” (fat chance), love- as he had to crawl under the gun assembly retired to Edmonton we have been able to ly place to live though, if you don’t mind the to get out. At another harbor the enemy enjoy the Moreuil Wood celebrations each rain – Ha!. shelling killed Robert Hanson as he was year. In particular was participating in the So nice to hear from “Lost Relatives” so getting out of his tank, he was only with the anniversary Celebration 2000 (the 100th to speak, although is has been so very, very troop a little while so I didn’t know him. year since the raising of Strathcona’s long ago. You may fill your “Lost Trails” Another tank got hit, that left our tank the Horse). with a “Found”. Good to hear from you only one left in 4th troop. I hope you can We have enjoyed each Newsletter we again, looking forward to receiving the make sense of my ramblings. receive. I am very remiss in sending the Newsletter. PERSEVERANCE and “keep My Legion Joe Wynne branch 51 had enclosed cheque as I know such publica- your powder dry” the Strathcona Mounted Troop perform tions do not come to us without cost. I can Ernie Babcock at the branches 75 Anniversary last year only plead health and family problems, Sechelt, BC Floyd Olsen which sent quite a number of tasks to the lower regions of my priority list. Hoping the (It’s always exciting when one wel- Edson, AB enclosed will help somewhat. comes a comrade back. I must confess I (Thank you for the vivid account of got a lead on your whereabouts from that your hectic experiences during, what Many thanks. other Regiment’s Newsletter. Promise if has been the vaunted “ Gothic” Line was Audrey Sharp there are further moves contemplated broken, in that horrific month of Sep- Edmonton, AB that you let us know. Ed) tember 1944. Ed) (Your father was a much-respected Strathcona. Will probably see you and in My sincere thanks, and congratulations, A couple of weeks ago our son Buzz, who Mar/Apr 2003 and a big thank you for to members of the Society and ‘Mucker’ lives in the Boise area, noticed an event at your very generous donation. Ed) Langan. I have appreciated receiving the the local fair. It was the LdSH (RC) Newsletter that you have continued to send Mounted Troop, so Buzz donned his Last April 13 the Regimental Associa- to me, since the passing of my dearest hus- Strathcona ball cap and went to see the tion (Alberta Branch) held a Melfa band Ian in August 1993. Enclosed is a troop perform. Later he visited with a cou- River dinner and dance. Enclosed is a donation to the Newsletter and again thank ple of the riders. He told of his Grandfa- photo of several Strathcona’s who were you. ther’s (Fred Cooper) involvement with with the Regiment on the occasion of the Melfa battle. They were guests of honor at Rae MacDiarmid the Regiment in WWI and was very well the dinner and are (Front Row L to R) Moose Jaw, SK received by the troopers. This stimulated Frank Thiessen, Bob Greene, Billy (Thank you for your appreciation. Buzz’s interest in the Regiment, and he May, and ‘Bud’ McLean, (Second Row L Glad you enjoy receiving the Newsletter asked if the “books” were still in print. I to R) ‘Geo’ Tomlinson, ‘Al’ Swinton, and thank you for your financial assis- think he meant STAND TO YOUR HORSES ‘Val’ Rimer, and ‘Doc’ Dowling. Al Swin- tance. Ed) and ALWAYS A STRATHCONA. Those are the two we have. Have we missed others? ton was with the Artillery unit that was in I read with interest all the letters in our Please let me know what there is available. support of the Regiment during the Italian Newsletter. I can add some names and We can lend him these, but he may want to Campaign. details of the action and casualties the first have his own. It was a special occasion for me as I was night in the Gothic Line. Perseverance. attending the Melfa Dinner with my father I was driving Sgt Bobby Rosler of 4 ‘Les’ & ‘Dodie’ Beauchamp George who recently moved to Calgary Troop “B” Squadron. We spent most of the San Clemente, CA. USA from Osoyoos, BC. He and I were attending afternoon looking for the Sqn and found (There was a total of 6 (six) books to be our second event together as members of them just as the BCD’s pulled back. We produced by the Society as a Centennial the Association. Alberta branch. From stayed with 3 Troop and were on “stand- project (1995-2000). I will send you the the time of my childhood in Moose Jaw dur- to”. When the shelling started I got in my details under separate cover. Thank you ing WW II, I have been interested in getting tank. Stan Bolding was killed in the first for your very generous donation. Ed) the ‘real life’ details of the Regiment from bombardment. A Tiger tank came over the those who served during WW 11. I have had hill and started firing over our heads and My computer crashed and burned. It was the pleasure of exploring my interest while three Germans soldiers moved around one old and decrepit like me. Bought a better serving with many WW 11 Strathconas, met of the 3rd troop tanks and gunned down one but lost my email address list in the Capt Perkins (at his orchard near ‘Brigham’ Young and started to crawl onto crash. Would you please send me an email Meaford) and Sgt “Chum” Macey at a the tank. Harold Boettcher, who was in so that I can regain your address? My new reunion. I also served at HQ Western this tank, locked the hatches and spun the email address is enclosed. Thank you again Ontario Area with Col Mahoney. turret around. I kicked the brake off to let for keeping me on the Newsletter mailing The 2002 Dinner was no less an experi- the tank roll back and twisted around to let list these many years. An overdue contribu- ence for me in meeting those who had first George Fox get his bow gun on them. The tion is enclosed towards the great job hand knowledge of our Regiment’s proud Germans ran back over the hill but not you’re doing. moments. I particularly wanted to meet FG before one was killed. Bill Moncrief, our Pat Mitchell ‘Bud’ McLean, for Bud may well be one of operator, got out and patched up Young. Victoria, BC the last living members of the “RECCE” Two more Germans approached I told Bill (Hope you received the email request- Troop crews, which were actually first who quickly fired at them. One of them ed. If you have other names that you lost across the Melfa, along with Perkins, slumped and both made a hasty retreat. let us know maybe we have their email Macey and Funk, all of whom were deco- Next morning a Bazooka was found at the addresses. Thank you General for the rated for their heroics that day (Perkins spot where these two Germans had been generous donation. Ed) –continued on page 6
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Strathcona Mounted Troop Report The Strathcona Mounted Troop estab- also joined us in Musical Ride practices and world famous military tattoo. The Regiment lished itself once again as the premier dedi- of course got a sense of Edmonton’s eagerly obliged sending Cpl Justin Bus- cated display team of the Canadian Forces nightlife. The Troop hopes that a reciprocal tard and Cpl Scott Fleming. They had a for the 2002 Musical Ride Season. This visit can be arranged for sometime during terrific time and represented the Regiment year the Troop was extremely busy, starting the winter. January in Texas is supposed to proudly as part of the mounted escort for the season on the 3rd of May and finishing be quite nice. the Scottish Crown jewels. As an inter- on the 21st of September with every week- Victoria Military Music Festival 14- esting aside, the RCMP our better-funded end booked for a Musical Ride in-between. 16 June. This event saw the Troop perform cousin was only asked to send two repre- 2002 saw the Musical Ride take Strathcona’s its Musical Ride in the picturesque setting sentatives as well. as far West as Victoria and as far South as of Beacon Hill Park in the heart of down- Vancouver Police Service Ride in the Boise, Idaho, and everywhere else in- town Victoria. What made this ride unique Park, 16 Sept 02. After performing 2 musi- between, with the majority of our Rides was the fact that the Troop performed its cal rides in Mission, BC for their freedom being performed right here in Alberta. musical ride to live music, a first in recent of the city ceremony, the Troop was invited The Troop saw some key additions to its history. to do some “on the job training” with the Musical Ride “Team” this year. Namely, Spruce Meadows. The Troop continued Vancouver Police Service’s Mounted Squad. Starbuck a 15.2 hands high 6 year old sor- its long-standing relationship with Spruce This 11-officer squad has 10 draft horses as rel Quarter-horse gelding, Summit a 15.1 Meadows as their official honour guard for mounts and is primarily tasked with patrol- hand high 4 year old sorrel Quarter-horse all five of their major tournaments this year. ling the some 150-km’s of trails throughout gelding, Sterling a 13 year old 15.2 hand The Troop loves performing at this venue Stanley Park. The Vancouver Police high chestnut-coloured Quarter-horse geld- as crowds for Musical Rides can sometimes Mounted Squad was nice enough to take ing and Salem a 15.1 hand high 5 year old exceed 30,000 people! the entire Troop on a 6 hour patrol of the sorrel Paint gelding. These horses turned Canyon County Fair, Caldwell, Idaho park, where we saw some gorgeous scenery out to be a key factor in performing this – 26-28 July. Through an aggressive mar- and were treated to an all out charge down years’ Musical Rides, as due to the overall keting campaign, the Troop was able to the beach, a once in a lifetime experience. increasing age of our herd, the Ride season secure one of its rides in the Northwest- Many commonalties were found between was fraught with injuries for some of our ern United States. The long travel time the two organizations and thus initiatives older horses. and extreme temperatures turned out to be have been undertaken to provide both We were also lucky enough to enlist the a small hardship to endure, as American organizations with better purchasing power help of two keen, young troopers to help hospitality did not disappoint! The Troop as well as help one another in the ever pre- Cpl Tim Parsons and Cpl Jason Pollock performed two of its best Musical Rides at sent task of finding quality new horses. with ground crew duties. Tpr Alex DiBla- this “horse-crazy” venue and was very, very As one can see Strathcona’s Mounted sio and Tpr Curtis McCarron were much- well received for it! So much so that the Troop has been a very busy organisation needed assets in this time of personnel Troop has been invited back for five perfor- over the course of the last six months. Cur- scarcity. mances next year. A special highlight of rently, the horses are having their shoes Some of this season’s highlights included: this trip was that the entire Troop was able removed and then they will be put out to A visit by the US 1st Cavalry Division’s to meet country music star Carolyn Dawn pasture for a month of hard earned grazing Horse Cavalry Detachment. This group Johnson! She was eager to meet us when and rest. The men are also eager to get on of perceptive horsemen visited the Mount- she learned that our show sold more tickets leave, as they have not had more than two ed Troop from 6-12 May. They partook in a than hers did! days off in a row for the entire summer. The variety of activities while they were here, Edinburgh Tattoo, 26 July – 26 August. final tally had SMT performing over 40 including a trip to Calgary where they saw In honour of HRH the Queen’s Golden musical rides this summer! That is a long the Regimental Museum, Spruce Mead- Jubilee, the organizers of the Edinburgh time in the saddle. ows and tried their hand at polo for the Tattoo asked the Troop send two Mounted Capt Ross Prokopy first time at the Calgary Polo Club. They Troopers to Scotland to be part of this Troop Leader It Happened One Night It happened Christmas 1944. “B” Sqn The next day was Christmas and the Ital- were on duty up the line, so the fitters were ian invited us to have dinner with. They had in an Italian house near Godo. The Ital- a large pot of stew, which tasted okay. Then ians had one part of the house, we had a he came in with a bottle of real good wine, room with a big fireplace downstairs and along with some of our Christmas parcels we slept upstairs. It was cold and the fire- we had a very nice meal. So that’s how I place wouldn’t burn very good. Someone remember Christmas 1944. suggested a little can of gasoline might help James A. Spencer – it did. Flame roared up the chimney and we began to get warm. Suddenly fire and Mervin, SK smoke was pouring out of every crack in (This was published in the first the chimney upstairs and we wondered if Newsletter Volume 1, Number 1, Febru- we were going to burn the house down. We ary 1986. As there were only 342 mem- didn’t have a ladder to get up on the roof. bers on the mailing list at this time I An Italian came running in with long bam- believe that the majority of the current boo poles and tying one end to the other, he list (1200 plus) had missed out on some pushed them up the chimney and soon red interesting anecdotes and letters. I will hot soot was piled up in the fireplace two continue to peruse the 1986-87 Newslet- feet high. It wasn’t long until everything ters for items that will be of interest to the was under control. current membership. Ed)
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Letters Letters continued with the DSO, Macey with the DCM and Funk with the MM). I discovered from my father, just before the dinner, that ‘Bud’ had been across the Melfa with the RECCE Troop so I was anxious to meet him. Bud told me that the troop had a com- plement of 11 tanks of which 2 were HQ tanks and the remainder assigned to sub- units of three tanks each. The three sub- troops could then be assigned one to each of the tank Squadrons. The tanks were Mk. 2 Stuart (also called Honey) with the tur- rets cut off. ‘Bud’ said that the Troop had been broken up for the day as some tanks had been assigned to bring engineers for- ward to take the slope out of the North bank of the river. As it happened, the bank was not too steep and the RECCE tanks were able to climb the north bank. Five tanks were to have gone across but two broke down leaving three which did make it across. The crew commanders were Lt was Elizabeth Flowerdew, so naturally I ferred from the Strathconas to the Fort Perkins, Sgt Macey and ‘Bud’, who com- went and asked her if she was related to Garry Horse in preparation for a tour of manded a tank nicknamed “Scooter”, was “our” Flowerdew. Yes, he was her husband’s duty in Germany. One evening I was hav- only a short distance away when Maj uncle, so there ‘s another contact. ing a beer in an otherwise empty Sergeants’ Mahoney was wounded. He described the Bill Turner has asked me to assist in Mess when in walked ‘Nobby’ wearing Grey leadership skill shown by Lt Perkins that preparing for the Okanagan reunion this slacks, Strathcona blazer and tie. He too day, as a dominant factor in the success September, so now that the dust of my had been transferred to the Garrys’ and had achieved. He thought that “Perky” was at move has settled, I’ll do what ever I can to just arrived, by POMC, from Camp Bor- his very best after Maj Mahoney had been help out. I don’t see too many old Straths as den, his last posting. wounded when the need was there for a I am busy with the South Alberta Regi- We had not seen each other since the strong, cool and confident leadership. ment’s Association, we had our 62nd Spring of 1960 when we had been on the ‘Bud’ had an even greater pride in the reunion in Ottawa in May and next year same Snr NCO course at Borden and exploits of Tpr JK Funk, MM who was his we’ll host one in Victoria. The Straths and Meaford. We had quite a bit of reminiscing bow gunner. He single handedly disabled a SAR’s old timers are getting thinner on the and catching up to do, which we did over a German tank with a borrowed PIAT. Due to ground each passing year. I hate looking at few beers. In walks the RSM ‘Squint’ the weight of the PIAT and the ammunition the “Last Trumpet Call” column of the Armer. ‘Nobby’ and I paid our respects to it used, Bud crept forward with Funk to Newsletter, but I guess we’ll all hear it him and I introduced ‘Nobby’ to the RSM. carry the ammunition for him. He described sooner or later. Mr. Armer nodded his acknowledgement, Funk as a quiet, unassuming man who had Enclosed are a couple of pictures I took then turned to the bar steward and a satisfied grin on his face and said simply, at the Okanagan reunion last September. requested a pair of scissors. Without a word “Wow! I got it”, after the event. One is of Vic Binnie and Colonel Des he took hold of ‘Nobby’s’ green and red Rod Tomlinson Deane-Freeman. The other is Vern necktie and cut it off just below the knot. Calgary, AB Schneider, who I trained as a recruit in the He placed the severed tie on the bar and (Glad you are keeping your father early 50’s and now he’s a grandfather. Keep asked the barman for a Fort Garry tie. Hav- active and involved with his Regiment’s up the good work, the Newsletter seems to ing signed a bar chit for the tie and one celebrations. Ed) get better with each issue. All the best to drink each for the two of us, the RSM pre- my old friends. sented the flabbergasted ‘Nobby’ with a In regards to the Information Form Perseverance. blue and yellow regimental tie, and a hand- you sent to my mother Lillian Lambkin. It Vic Childs shake, formerly welcoming him to the Fort is with regret that I have to inform you that Garry Horse. Then he bade us a good Kelowna, BC she passed away on 2nd June 2001. I would evening and left. (Thanks for the change of address like to thank you for keeping my mother in I wonder if ‘Nobby’ kept the remnants of touch with the Strathcona Family after notice. The two photos are now in the Museum’s archives. Hope the September his Strathcona tie as a memento. I never the death of my father several years ago. thought to ask him. Norma Parks reunion goes well and that you meet up Peter Baltgailis Delta, BC with many old comrades and friends. (A copy of the Newsletter reflecting the Ed) Slocan, BC obit of “Lillian” was sent to Norma. Ed) (Having known ‘Nobby’ for nearly 50 I was saddened to hear that we had lost years, and had he been still with us, and Just wanted to notify you of another ‘Nobby’ Clark. I remember Nobby as a heard this incident about himself, you change of address, and I guess this will be fine soldier, an excellent Gunnery instruc- and I can well imagine those eyes would final. What with arthritis, failing eyesight, tor and a loyal friend. I loved his quiet sense have a twinkle and with it would be that etc., catching up with me. I have moved of humour and his long monologues in jovial laugh that he was renowned for. into a Sandalwood Retirement Resort in Swahili, when he was in his cups. Thank you Peter for the memorial inci- Kelowna. My new address is: 131-580 I would like to share with you and your dent and the donation. Ed) Yates Road, Kelowna, BC V1V 2M3, phone readers an incident involving ‘Nobby’ that (250) 860-4474, Email: [email protected]. took place in late September or early Octo- I had the occasion to meet a fellow by the It’s a small world, a lady resident just ber of 1962, in Petawawa. I had recently name of Ernie Saunders, on the 1st tee at moved into the resort and I heard her name arrived from Ottawa, having been trans- –continued on page 8
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LdSH(RC) Association (Alberta Branch) Report Howdy! from Calgary your Alberta LCol Jim Ellis – from the Alberta and working with Jason ( the terrible) will Branch Headquarters. Our Email Branch members thank you for all the sup- be a challenge that I’m sure your up to it. address is
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Letters Letters continued usually in the form of a little ditty, no ever, in his wisdom he decided on bringing offence to anyone is intended, and already a Nursing Sister on the trip. We arrived in the Chilliwack Golf Club. Several games too many bridges have been burnt. Banff late Friday evening and settled in for later as we discussed our past experiences Enclosed is a little of that humour that you the weekend. We were not slated to ski and I told Ernie that I had been a member readers may enjoy. It is great to have until Sunday so we had all day Saturday to of the Armoured Corp. He quickly asked if I friends and fond memories in old age. So ourselves. It was decided that we would had heard or knew of his father ‘Pop’ keep in touch, and “KEEP YOUR POWDER wear our Teddy Bear suit’s for our visit Saunders who used to drive the rickety- DRY”. downtown. By afternoon we were all dis- bang-bang WW1 Scout Car. It was used by MY DREAM. persed in the bars, Legion and cafes around General Worthington, on several parades Last night I met a “Soldier’, the main street. We managed to spread a of the Armoured Corp conference week- ‘Twas in my dreams of course, rumour that we were a Special Force unit ends at the School, and was driven by ‘Pop He asked if I had ever been, getting mountain and ski training. This at Saunders. ‘Pop’ passed away a couple of A “Lord Strathcona’s Horse”. the time seamed to impress some of the years ago at Abbotsford at a grand old age locals around town. Unfortunately, by Sat- of 100 years and 11 days. Ernie, it turns No! I’m from the “East” my son, And I know you’re from the “West”, urday night, the combination of beer and out, is a retired Squadron Leader a Blue job wine took its toll on some of the troops and of course. The Scout car, I am told, is at the For you have “Perseverance” bie, All painted on your chest. things started to unravel around Main Ottawa Museum. Street. Some of the younger locals took I’m sure that some of the “old dogs” I tried to place this “Soldier”, exception to some of the antics, conse- would be interested in what happened to In a place that we both knew, quently a number of connotations devel- ‘POP’ SAUNDERS. For I’ve never been to “Wainwright” oped at different points. The local RCMP George Prokopetz So “Camp Borden” had to do. appeared to be absent during this time, (I recall seeing that old scout car with Oh! there are several other places, consequently things got out of control. We ‘Pop’ at the wheel/tiller’s in several And “Egypt “ could be one, never did see our delegated officer it seems ARMD Corp publications. Ed.) Then of course there’s “Cyprus”, he had other plans for the weekend. The land of blazing sun. Sunday morning was the time allocated Thank you very much for Newsletter and for skiing so we got dressed in our Teddy thank you too for including me in the I suppose it doesn’t matter now, That we drove and cursed and swore, Bear suits and felt boots. We arrived at Strathcona Family after the passing of Mount Norguay for instruction on how to For there is one thing I am sure of, my husband Obie last year. I was excited to ski. Our instructor was a professional ski We still have Espirit de Corp. see the picture of the “RECCE” Troop, instructor and he was quite shocked about but disappointed not seeing Obie (L/Cpl N. For we all marched off together, the equipment and dress we had. He sug- A. Bartlett) even mentioned, as he was In our giant armoured steeds, gested we should not try to ski in the felt with them all the while overseas. As a mat- Creaking down the “Highways”, boots, as there was no support for the ter of fact we still keep in touch with Ron At 2 kmh top speed. ankle. After a short period of basic instruc- Thomas of Grouard Alberta. When I read So now my dream has ended, tion the group drifted of to the ski lift rope the names in the “Last Trumpet Call” And I’d like to make it clear, to get up the slope. That was when the column I too feel a sense of loss. It is great to have your “Friendship”, instructor finally gave up and left in dis- I’ll see what I can find in the way of pic- So ———“Audax et Celer”. gust. Most of the gang was still hung over tures for the Book Project. There was no Ernie Babcock from the night before and not in any shape mention of a specific deadline when this Sechelt, BC for the slope, however we were all fearless. information, pictures etc. had to be submit- (It’s always pleasant to hear from a It was at the start position when many of us ted. I have the first book the series did and former Strathcona. It is even more pleas- realized that we could only go straight will want a copy of this the last of the ing to bring them back into the family downhill not having learnt turning or break- series. Again many thanks for including me fold. Thank you for the above letter and ing. We descended down the slope yelling in the Strathcona family. Enclosed is a small poem. Ed) “Track” to the by-standers that had donation in Obie’s memory. arrived to ski. It wasn’t long before we were Johanna ‘Jo’ Bartlett The winter of 1947 was cold and bitter stumbling and tumbling all over the slope. Calgary, AB and dragging out for the Regiment at Cur- It was of no surprise that the civilian skiers (Jo, the “Recce” troops picture, you rie Barracks. There wasn’t much to do for did not venture on to the slope, with all were referring to, list the names of those the regiment and morale was getting low these bodies flying around. Fortunately Straths who were in that troop in March and the troops were getting restless. Our there was only one casualty he broke an 1945. L/Cpl N. A. (Obie) Bartlett was in CO was Jerry Chubb and he discovered ankle. I guess the previous night’s alcoholic “C” Squadron during that period. that in the QM stores there was 18 pair of consumption had helped to ease the pain. skis. In addition there were also winter felt Much to the relief of the other skiers sitting Thanks for the Newsletter and the infor- boots and WW2 Airforce 2 piece suits. The on the sideline we left around lunchtime. mation. Good to hear from you all again. So inner portion of this suit was one piece The comments we received were not very many years have passed, but still have made up of a brown furry material so that complimentary. Our appearance in Teddy many, many fond memories. I manage to when worn you resembled a Teddy Bear. Bear suits and felt boots combined with our keep in touch with Vic Childs over the last Some one, who obviously had no knowl- gusto on the slope would be a conversation few years, and as usual, I see by the last edge of skiing, felt that this equipment piece for some time. Newsletter, he is wearing many hats. I sup- would do the trick and convinced the C.O. The following week our Commanding pose that is why he is in Mexico to purchase that a ski weekend would give morale a Officer called this group together. He read a Sombrero. It’s just great to be remem- boost. There was no problem getting 18 vol- out a letter that he had received from the bered by friends from the past. We old unteers for this excursion. Somehow the Mayor of Banff. The gist of the letter is “sods” need all the help we can get. I for selection included mostly renegades and “the town hoped not to see any of us in the one believe in espirit de corps and old rowdies of the regiment near future, or ever”. The CO made it clear and young should keep up the tradition, so A weekend was selected and arrange- what he thought of our antics in town and call it badgering, not so in my book, it is just ments made. We were to be billeted in the on the slope. He gave us a dressing down old fashion rivalry. Militia Armouries in Banff. A Lieutenant that we would remember for a long time. I often make vain attempts at humour, was delegated to supervise the group, how- –continued on page 9
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Korean Visit Pictorial History in On April 14, 2002 my wife Donna and I at the Dragon Hill Lodge, we visited a Stat- were part of 38 Korean veterans and (10) ic Unit/Equipment display, comprising of all Progress spouses selected to take part in the 2002 the military air and land hardware available Volume VI of the Strathcona History revisit, along with 99 UK veterans and some to the USFK. This was of special interest to Book Series is underway. It will be com- of their spouses. the veterans in which to ask questions, pleted in the fall of 2004 and made available To say that our Korean hosts were any- climb on and marvel at how much equip- for the May 2005 reunion. The book (not thing less than marvelous and gracious ment technology had progressed over the yet officially named) will have approxi- would be a gross understatement. From over the past 50 years. That evening The mately 150 pages and include over 600 arrival to departure the planning, tours, Canadian Ambassador and Mrs. Jocelyn photos. Text will be included only to intro- ceremonies and commemorative services Comeau graciously hosted us at their duce time periods and provide a short were conducted with pride, enthusiasm spectacular residence overlooking a large overview of events and activities. It will be and reverence. Not only was it an honour area of Seoul. larger that the other four volumes that have and privilege to be the only Lord Strath- Day six after checking out of the Sofitel been produced and will be approximately cona’s Horse (RC), “B” Sqn representa- Ambassador Hotel we were transported to 9” by 12” in size with a hard cover similar to tive on this trip but afforded me yet an the Commonwealth Memorial at Kapy- the others (green with gold lettering). The other opportunity to pay homage to those ong County where we were part of the jacket will include photos from within the who make the supreme sacrifice, while wreath laying ceremony, a plaque unveiling book. The team of Ian Barnes, Sean serving there so long ago. to the library and then on to the Canadian Henry, Mike Snell and John Grodzinski Day one proved to be the only relaxing Monument for a Memorial service. From will produce the book.The call for photos in 1 day of our itinerary where we visited the there we had a 2 ⁄2 hour bus trip to the air- the last newsletter was well received but Korean Folk Village and saw some of the port and departed for Canada or, in the we still need more photos. This is your scenes, displays and living conditions that case of Donna and I and another couple, to chance to get your photo in the book. were so common to us in 1952-53. Bangkok and Thailand, which in itself is Please send your photos (black and white Day two we attended a wreath laying cer- another great adventure story. and/or coloured) via mail to Ian Barnes 46 emony at the National Cemetery, Hon- We were unable to visit some of “B” Sqn Creighton Blvd, Brandon, MB. R7B 0Y2 our Guard ceremony at the War Memo- positions North of the 18th parallel such or via E-Mail to me at
Letters Letters continued On looking back over the years most of those ruffians and rowdies of that era became good Officer’s and Snr NCO’s in the Armoured Corp, I guess we turned out, not too bad, after all. As an after, The Lieutenant in charge of the ski group left the regiment shortly after. I didn’t mention names of the group so that no one would be offended. Carl Ranostay Edmonton, AB Larry Adams at the newly dedicated Canadian Monument in Korea.
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PERAMBULATIONS OF THE PERIPATETIC PADRE Marion (my first wife) and I have just plete with a picture of fifteen “B” Sqn (the Cade came down in September but as I was completed an incredible two-week journey sqn that won the war) fellows taken in Italy. in Africa I unfortunately missed it. My dear to that beautiful country Africa where I had a great visit with Eddy in August and wife had surgery the day before Col Cade 70% of the people are starving and 30% he told me of his recent visit with Steve assumed command of the Regiment; sad to have AIDS. It was my first visit to Africa, Shular in Wynyard SK. Merv Scott in say I missed that one too. I am proud to say since the Regiment stopped off in Algeria Stonewall MB. Eddy notes that Merv is that I have had connections with three gen- on our way to Italy in, November 1943. pretty badly crippled. Eddy was planning to erations of the Strathcona Cade’s. Jamie’s While in East Central Africa the Bishop attend the Italian Campaign Veteran grandfather Fred, who was a WW1 Strath, of Northern Malawi appointed me his Reunion in Yorkton SK at the end of Sep- and his wife Florence, were parishioners of commissary of Canada. tember. ‘Mac’ Wilson also hoped to attend. mine when I was rector of St. Bede’s As we flew up the Italian peninsula on How did it go fellows? Anglican Church in Winnipeg from 1972- our way home, we had a magnificent view of At the end of August Marion and I 77 during which I was the Wpg branch the land we had fought over almost sixty observed our 50th Wedding Anniversary. padre. Jamie’s father Jack was a subaltern years before. My thoughts went back to the Len ‘Alley’ Katz and his wife Lee repre- with us in Italy and later a Colonel himself. Melfa when we lost a third of our tanks and sented the Straths. Frank Clifford was Sgt Morris Spring’s (WW2) father Victor a third of our officers in one day, including invited but unfortunately was out of town. served in WW1, but as far as I know the many of my dear friends + may their souls Another interesting but sad letter came Cade’s are the only family with three gener- rest in peace and may light perpetual shine from Lorna Blair. Lorna is the widow of ations of serving Straths. Congratulations, upon them +. While in the UK we tried to Gerald Blair who served with the Straths Colonel Jamie. May your command of the meet our Colonel in Chief, Prince Charles, during WW2. We last saw Gerry, or ‘Barney’, regiment be richly blessed. but unfortunately he was off to Scotland. as he was known in the regiment, at the Another message on my blower was from We arrived home in Calgary to find a reunion in Edmonton. He went on oxygen Billy May who has recently been crippled stack of calls on the answering machine, two weeks before going to Edmonton but with shingles, the only proper place for plus Emails and a large batch of mail. was still determined to make it for our same being on the roof of your house! On Among the messages was one from Harry 100th. Lorna says how thankful they both top of that, his dear and faithful wife Mol- Stein in Winnipeg inquiring about an were that he made it to that wonderful gath- lie had to go into hospital. Later this week orderly room Joe in Italy whose first name ering. Barney died March 20th, 2002 + may I plan to take Billy out to lunch at our local was Westley but Harry could not recall the his sole rest in peace + our prayers go out to Legion 264 and then visit Molly. Billy is last name. ‘Mucker’ informs me that his Lorna and the family. Here at home in Cal- faithful and a long serving Strath who name is Vickers. So there you have it Harry gary ID’s luncheons at the 285 Legion are joined the permanent force in 1939 As a and give your dog Napoleon a pat for me. always well attended and the regiment is trooper and rose to become the RSM after Another very interesting letter came from very good about sending a contingent down the war. Elsewhere in Calgary I keep track Eddy L’Arrivee from Aborfield in SK com- from Edmonton. The new CO LCol Jamie of Don Lake, Frank Thiessen, Bud McLean, Alex Ozirny and his faithful wife Jean. Also the Strath widows Alice Budner, Millie McCreary and Della Remembering a Hero Spilde who has just returned home from The last project of the Celebrations hospital. Roy Jardine is still recovering at 2000 concluded in Fort MacLeod with the home with dear wife Inez who continues to dedication of a new headstone to one of our spoil the life out of him. Roy’s son David most recognized soldiers, Brigadier Gen- just back from China is very good about eral Frederick Maurice Watson Harvey bringing his father to ID’s luncheons. Hang VC, MC, CdeG. Brigadier Harvey was born in Roy! You are living proof that you can’t in Ireland on September 1, 1888, he grew up keep a good man down. as a fine athlete and a keen competitor with As the Association Padre I am kept busy a love for challenge. He graduated from conducting Strath funerals. The latest being school as a qualified surveyor and was drawn that of Thomas Clarke Elliott, who joined to Canada in 1908 where he worked on a the regiment in 1936, early in the war trans- ranch near Fort MacLeod, Alberta and later ferred to the RCAF but always regarded joined a survey team working in the North. himself a Strathcona. His love for rugby drew him back to Ireland As we look around our lovely Condo we for a short time to play for his homeland. see so many wonderful Strathcona momen- In 1911, he returned to Fort MacLeod toes. A lovely rural and mountain painting where he bought a ranch and subsequently given to us by Dick Cunniffe, when we left married Miss Winifred Lillian Patterson Calgary to go to Wpg in 1972. Stan Adams in March 1914. The call of King and Empire superb painting of the Bluenose in full sail, soon drew this young man into service of his a painting of the POW camp we were guard- newly adopted country. In 1915 he enlisted Brigadier F.M.W. Harvey 1888 - 1980 ing in Zuidlaren, Holland just after VE day in the Canadian Mounted Rifles in Fort and painted by a Dutch friend. The recent MacLeod. He subsequently went overseas opened rapid machine gun fire at very close The Colonel- in Chief Commendation with that cavalry unit and was posted in range, causing heavy casualties to the lead- awarded by the Strathcona Society plus 1916 to the LSH (RC). It was as a Strath- ing troop. At this critical moment, when the many other trophies and plaques. It’s not cona that he earned the many coveted dec- enemy showed no intention whatever of hard to tell this is a Strathcona house. orations he wore. retiring and fire was still intense, Lt. Harvey ‘Mucker’ just phoned and is screaming at On March 27, 1917 during an attack by who was in command of the leading troop, me to get this column off to him. So I had the Regiment at the village of Guyencourt in ran forward well ahead of his men and better sign off. Poosh On, Strathconas. France, a party of enemy ran forward to a dashed at the fully manned trench, jumped Father R.S.H. Greene wired trench just in front of the village and –continued on page 11 Padre & Lance Corporal
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MILLENNIAL MEMORIES 1953 to 1955 were memorable years to like moving cross-country in our tanks, graduated from Staff College. We passed with all the changes, activities, increases in crossing hard ground and splashing through muster and started breaking camp but not the Army, tasks given to the regiment and the rivers and streams. before the CO laid on a mess dinner in the the newly formed “D” Squadron. Subal- The accompanying photo is a little bit of marquees for most of the Brigade’s CO’s. terns, Ken Grove, Dooley Ross and I were history that coincides with the soldiers in Lots of rain, jokes, camaraderie and lots of hoping to get to the 25 Brigade in Korea but the regiment and RCD in 1947 and after. We Nelson Heaters. the new 27 Brigade for Germany would do formed the first troop of the RCAC with The regimental shoots were finished and nicely for two years in the British Army on Replacement Wing in Camp Borden cleaned up and the return to Currie was the Rhine, (BAOR) along with our allied with the OC, Capt. CV Jewkes, M.C. completed in good time. “D” Squadron was Regiment, the 17/21 Lancers in Munster. (RCD). This was the first class of General given 30 days embarkation leave and we had Garrison life in Currie Barracks was a Military Training after WW2 to be brought to be back 30 October. I went to visit the constant learning exercise in addition to our into the RCAC. NB: Hugh Mackie was the RCAF and they were in the process of send- duties such as attending courts martial as SSM. ing aircraft back to Trenton, Montreal etc. observers and recommending punishments In mid January 1953 I was sent to Camp for training or destruction. I was able to hop and supporting them. Junior Officers were Valcartier to attend a 24 week French lan- from Calgary to Winnipeg on to Montreal to encouraged to join the Garrison Club and guage course. I returned to the regiment in PEI, where I caught a ferry to Wood Island United Services Institute to broaden our Wainwright just in time to fit in with the in Nova Scotia and hitchhiked to Halifax knowledge of the wider aspects of the Army. establishment of personnel, in July. We were where I caught a tram to my home; at last. I Our rare spare time was usually spent by finishing off the Regimental syllabus and think I got back pretty much the same way some of us going next door to the RCAF getting ready for “D” Squadron to be in time for NLT 30 October but I can’t be Station to fly in the back seats of their Har- assessed for its operational proficiency to sure. Anyway, the Halloween party orga- vard Trainers, used in the Commonwealth meet the standards of D Armour. The nized by Bucky was a great going away Training Programs. Their pilots seemed examiners also included observers recently bash. There was little more to do, except have a parade for the Mayor of Calgary for farewells and drive to the train station where Dean Freeman and his wife shook hands with the troops and officers and wished us all “GOD SPEED” Perseverance. Ken Barnaby Ottawa, ON
Remembering a Hero continued the wire, shot the machine gunner and cap- tured the gun. His most courageous act had a decisive effect on the success of the oper- ation and Lt. Harvey was awarded the Vic- toria Cross for conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty. Lt. Harvey continued to serve with the Regiment throughout the remainder of the First World War. He received the French Croix de Guerre for his action in the Great Trench Raid. He fought in the battle of Replacement Wing Group 1947 – CampBorden Moreuil Wood and his troop supported another troop of “C” Squadron, which resulted in the awarding of the Military Cross to Lt. Harvey and the Victoria Cross to Lt. G.M. Flowerdew. –continued on page 15
Troops stretching their legs. 1980
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Dear John (This is the thirteenth in a series of fic- two of the three RCAC courses to wit you good in that your horizon broadens, you tional father-to-son letters which were have taken the Advanced Gunnery and meet new people, face up to new situations penned by the late BGen A.G. Chubb and Advanced Wireless. You have had two years and condition of service. The four years of published in the Canadian Army Jour- in command of a troop and have had two full regimental service will serve you in good nal in the 50’s. Ed) summer periods of training in Wainwright. stead, as you will have the confidence of Dear John: You have been promoted from 2/Lieutenant experience and knowledge. Anything less Your mother is still rather starry eyed to Lieutenant and taken to your bosom a than four years is to my way of thinking too over the wedding and spends hours on the helpmate to wit Mary. Makes quite an short. phone spelling out the gory details of Mary’s impressive list doesn’t it? And in fact it is Having completed a tour in the School or dress, the bridesmaids, how handsome the merely getting together as it were the tools with I & A, I think you should then hope to officers looked in their blues etc etc. I never of your trade. return to regimental duty as a Captain and could understand why women get so excit- As I remember it you must serve one year prepare yourself for the Staff College. Cer- ed about these things but they all do. At in the rank of Lieutenant before you can tainly it is easier and more pleasant to work that, I must confess it went off very well and write your Lieutenant to Captain examina- to this from within the sanctuary of the reg- your father-in-law and I managed to get off tion and must serve five years in the rank of iment than when slugging it out more or less in a corner and swap a few lies about our Lieutenant before becoming eligible for pro- on your own as a junior officer on a HQ or in respective offspring. He seemed like a motion. That part is clear enough and to my some small town. decent old gent in spite of his gunner back- way of thinking is fair enough. How should Sounds pretty simple and straightforward ground. you spend this time? As I have said before, I doesn’t it when it is written down like this. I had quite a talk with your troop Sgt. feel very strongly that the basis of all sol- You and I both realize that it is not quite as Graham before I left. I was wondering diering is found in the regiment. The tools of simple as that but at least it is a plan of around the tank hanger and he came up and the trade e.g. equipment, men and training operation, which will lead you to your goal introduced himself. A fine man and I would facilities are concentrated and available to in reasonable steps. Certainly I think you judge a good soldier. He seemed to think you. You should seize on every opportunity should make a plan for your own future that you were doing a good job but was a lit- to use these facilities to the full. It seems to along those lines starting with the regimen- tle worried because he had heard a rumour me therefore that your best bet is to remain, tal service as your base of operation as it that you were thinking of asking for a post- is possible, with the regiment at least for one were. ing outside of the regiment. It surprised me more year during which time you should This will greet you on your return from a little and I have made a stab at adding up prepare yourself for your Lieutenant to Cap- your honeymoon and may bring you out of your military career todate. tain’s examinations. Having successfully the clouds a bit. I have never been a grand- You have three years and a bit under your passed this hurdle and with four years regi- father before and am looking forward to it. belt at this point. As I remember it you have mental service you might then look for a Give our best to your child bride. successfully passed the Young Officers posting to the RCAC School or to I & A. As ever, Course at Borden and have also qualified in A tour of this sort will do you a world off Dad Birchaven Invitational Golf Tournament The 12th Annual Birchaven Invita- The after play lunch was hosted by Bob Summing up the event, Clive Milner, just tional Golf Tournament successfully Rutherford at the Owen Sound Country back from United Nations duty in the Far made the history books at Owen Sound, Club and the usual round of lame excuses East, noted that Dave Keddie won more golf Ontario on September 6 to 8, 2002. As a and military gossip was exchanged along awards when he didn’t make it to the tour- result of the new format that features only with various health-related conversations. nament. Perhaps the most telling remark one round of play, a significant number of Following an afternoon fishing trip, the con- came from Seth Adair who said that in addi- records were set before, during and after cluding evening banquet was prepared with tion to the great company and the great golf the Platinum Round. characteristic flair by Bob Billings and he was amazed at the range of medical con- Hosted by Bruce and Dawn Rutherford included two brand new dishes – Greek ditions that had been discussed by such a with immediate support from Judge Bob Potatoes and Broccoli, Nut and Mayo Salad relatively small group of people! Rutherford and Bruce’s grandson Seth Supreme. Wonderful!! Obviously concerned Dennis Hopkins Adair, the full playing group also included about his ability to exceed this triumph, the Bob Sear, Bob Billings, Clive Milner, chef seriously suggested we have next Dave Keddie, Dennis Hopkins, and Al year’s event catered. Not likely!! VISIT OUR WEB SITE Diggins, Bruce’s brother-in-law. Following the banquet the Tournament Set up as a dramatic team versus team, Trophies and War Medals were presented. best ball format, the records began to fall Dave Keddie received his Peacekeeping early when two members of the group were Medal for service in Egypt from Bruce required to stand in their sock feet at the Rutherford and, in exchange, presented a first tee while soft cleats were placed on wide range of corporate baseball caps and their vintage golf shoes. Not one but two. tee shirts to those present. The Mannequin Definitely a first!! Pis Trophy for Closest To The Hole went to From the outset the standard of play was Bob Billings; the Gorf Trophy for the set by Seth Adair who recently completed Longest Drive to Seth Adair; the BCR Tro- four years at Savannah College of Art & phy for Most Gentlemanly Play went to Design in Georgia as Captain of the College Clive Milner and the Golden Golfer Award golf team. While he took the win for Longest for the Best Team was accepted by Dennis Drive at some 320 yards, Bob Billings held Hopkins. In absentia, Bob Sear was pre- on to take the Close To The Hole category. sented the Most Dinners Missed Award for Top prize money of seven loonies went to never being brave enough to come to the www.strathconas.ca each of the winners. final banquet.
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Once Upon A Time There Was A Subaltern (The following the seventh in a series were left unsaid, but felt. It was with mixed When the Main Party arrived, they were of reflections penned by a Strathcona feelings I returned ‘home’ to my room in boarded quickly into pre-arranged accom- (who for now will be anonymous) Currie Barracks. It was good to be back. modations. (The organizational skills of regarding his service during which he As the married personnel moved into Movement Control (RCASC)) on both considered were the “Golden” years with barracks, the atmosphere took on an sides of the Atlantic was virtually flawless. the Regiment. Ed) expectancy, which intensified with the (Too bad “civvie street” couldn’t match departure of the Advance Party. “The Show them today. The rotation of 2 Bdes Hindsight tempered with common sense was on the Road”! w/dependents within two months while is useful. However, if the realities of the An Aside: Colby Yeomans recalls “the maintaining a war footing meant some past are replaced with current realities stencilling of anything and everything sta- 16,000 individuals “in and out”.) then we’re likely to be ‘off the mark’. The tionary”. Ex/CanSea was our “brand” in ‘57. An Aside: ‘Pat’ recalls the SSM ordering NATO Bde of the 50’s was very different An Aside: John Ashley still marvels at the the Snr NCO’s to keep their Patrol Dress from its successors of the 60’s-90’s. Indeed, “tons” of extra supplies crated for shipment (‘Blues’) available for wear while at sea. Europe, both East and West, was of a to Fort Chambly. Contents were often mis- One doesn’t question the SSM...the ‘Blues’ time not easily known or understood even a inventoried labelled; new Bell-Tents for the were not worn ... decade later. (For we of the 50’s to super- entire Sqn, new tarps for all vehicles, extra Two subalterns were detailed to be the impose our decade upon those that fol- camouflage nets, forests of paper/file-fold- Air Couriers. This entailed taking many lowed would be as erroneous). ers, etc., and new coveralls, etc., all this copies of nominal rolls to Movement Con- In War Without Battles, Canada’s was surplus to our establishment decreed trol, Rotterdam, and to the Adv. Party, NATO Brigade in Germany, 1951-1993, by Ottawa. (Without the foresight of Ian Fort Chambly. Lt “Bob” Marvin was the the author of the Foreward was there, and Grant, Bill Ward, ‘Mac’ Lindsay and Advance AC from Calgary, while Lt John assisted in establishing the Bde accommo- ‘Billy’ May, the Sqn would have been in a Ashley was to be the Final AC from Dorval, dations in Westphalia for 1953. General sorry state in Germany. We could not have Montreal. Sir John Hackett, GCB, CBE, DSO, MC, functioned operationally with the scales of An Aside: John remembers Quebec states this about our Cdn Bde: issue stated by DND-Ottawa.) City, where he had time to visit the site “I knew it very well, being there to help it While preparing the Ferret Scout Cars where Samuel de Champlain’s casket on its arrival and working-up, and a good for their sea voyage, it was interesting to was finally located, and meeting the train deal of it thereafter ... when it was one of watch the kit stowage – new tools, canvass, with the Strathconas as it pulled into the outstanding elements in the Northern wireless parts, etc., were “liberated” for the Wolfe’s Cove. Then it was to Dorval and Army Group ... such splendid representa- trip. Even weapons received similar atten- lift-off on a Super Constellation after the tion, seen in such high relief abroad.” tion. New barrels appeared. As with “D” farewell to a fiancée (who would be sending (Underlining my own) Sqn in 55 at Fort Anne, this “liberating” him a ‘Dear John’ six months later). Bitter “Recce Sqn’s” role, 1957-59, was signif- did not occur from within the Sqn but sweet memories indeed. icant in hindsight. While living daily these rather from forays within the garrison. The flight was deluxe, unlike today’s thoughts were seldom considered. Rather Even the PPCLI and QOR were fair game. travel in Airbus cattle pens. After delivery from Trooper to Major, it went unsaid that (In hindsight, I wonder if some of the stuff of the final nominal rolls there was time to objectives large or small were to be came from the RCAF, Lincoln Park?) recce some of the bars of Rotterdam before achieved on a scale “better than good”. The advance Party, under command of on to Soest. ‘Baz’ Collett met me and Social challenges were met with the same ‘Mac’ Lindsay, assisted by Lt ‘Baz’ Collett brought me up-to-date as we drove to Fort perseverance. We lived life intensely – this and Sgt ‘Scotty’ Miller, left to prepare for Chambly. (Memories of my arrival at Fort included the dependents – all part of the the Main Party and their dependents by Anne in May ‘55, with ‘Dooley’ Ross flood- ‘Strathcona family’. For better or worse, end-October and end-November, respec- ed back. Different though, very little evi- to use a quotation from Lord Wavell: tively. Not the least of their tasks was to dence of war damages in ‘57’ (just 2 years “we were bound together by a golden find and secure accommodations “on the later). The Advance Party had been busy. It thread of recollections which would economy” for the dependents. The PMQ’s also became obvious that numerous recces always be precious to us...” in Soest did not allow for our personnel. had been made...to significant sites where The final months prior to movement from We were an “add-on” to the Bde. So, it was liquid refreshment and ox-tail soup might Currie Barracks to Fort Chambly were rooms over gast-hofs, behind/over stores, be obtained. The Adv. Party could have full of activity. Even annual leaves took on a and rooms in private homes, from the been re-mustered as “guides, tourist, for serious vein, whether single or married shores of the Mohne See to Lippstadt, the use of” – they also knew where the there was much to do; disposing of autos choices were made and leases signed for “frauleins” were...or so they said. for credit notes, furniture sold or stored, those who would follow. (As a ‘single’, I The voyage from Quebec City to Rotter- accommodations vacated, wives and kids observed this lifestyle from afar. Volumes dam on the Empress of France (the sent to relatives until later movement to could be and should be written about “life “Drunken Duchess”) resulted in numerous Soest in late November. on the economy” in the ‘50’s.) In typical tales...none to be recounted here. When An aside: As a ‘single’, my leave took me Strathcona fashion, choices were sound ‘Bill’ Ward was asked how it had gone, he to a little Ottawa-Valley town to bid adieu and all went well. Unlike some other units, merely rolled his eyes...which could be to my parents and youngest sister. It was all Strathcona dependents were ‘in place’ interpreted as “hell on earth (or ship)”, here I’d enjoyed and survived adolescence for December 1957. possibly due to machinations of the OC and with its freedoms and friends. Things Meanwhile, Colby Yeomans and ‘Pat’ the SSM.... The Troop Train to Soest also weren’t the same though – the country Patterson were detailed to be the holds memories as other units and depen- dances were tamer; the bars ‘across the Advance Boat Party, Quebec City, Octo- dents were on the train. Again, tales go river’ in Grenville, Que, still served quarts ber ‘57. untold and the perpetrators remain incog- with the dried, mouldy sandwiches on Sun- An Aside: Colby recalls it was “not a nito. (See if Colby or Pat will talk). day afternoons but familiar faces were not very demanding task but a good opportuni- The Ferrets’ arrival in Fort Chambly there; the town ‘hang-out’ was now full of ty to Recce the Citadel and the Plains ... meant some intensive cleaning and re-stor- youngsters. My father spoke to me in a dif- very fortunate to have Pat as a guide. He ferent manner – many thoughts and feelings knew more than the ‘natives’!” –continued on page 14
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Once Upon A Time There Was A Subaltern continued Message from the Colonel of the age of kit in readiness for trial runs outside the coaches where our dependents were Regiment continued the camp. entombed with all the noise frantic children families. It was a very good parade, mount- An Aside: Colby Yeomans recalls, “I real- and cholicy babies could muster. ed of course, with a roll past and a feu de ly don’t recall us doing anything out of the The mothering skills and leadership of joie by the tanks – very impressive! ordinary – except we were always doing some wives became quickly evident, and I Among the many Strathconas that I something.” enlisted several to assist me in pacifying encountered were MGen Cam Ross, the A Wireless Course was given ASAP, with those “on the edge”. ‘Mac’ Lindsay’s wife, senior serving Strathcona, Pete Wonder- the loader’s portion given at Fort Beause- “Les”, with 4 young ones (the 5th would ham, Earl Cady, Jim Chamberlain, jour, Iserlohn, in the tanks of the RCD’s. arrive in due course), not only had her brood Lindsay Esson, Don Crossman, Jack With all drivers and crew commanders now under easy control, she toured the cars Cade (and many of the very proud Cade trades-trained in D&M (wheeled and wire- offering assistance to the young wives. ‘Bill’ clan), Bob Caughill, Capt Doug Gardner, less), we had some real flexibility in use of Ward’s wife, Eleanor, with her first son Des Deane-Freeman, Col Tim Grant, Vic personnel on exercises. (Extra trades pay (number two would arrive in ‘58) also Binnie, Bud Wheat, Roy Jardine, and also came in handy in “supporting the local offered assistance to those in dire straits. many, many more. economy”. We were learning that the shelf Anarchy did not occur but it came close. The Regiment has been and continues to life of local German beer was short...and we Then, a real problem burst upon my little be very heavily tasked so there will not be persevered in not wasting...) empire ... the washrooms, actually both the much breathing space for the foreseeable An Anecdotal Aside: John Ashley can’t toilets and the wash basins were not usable future. As many readers are aware, there is remember how or why he was selected by ... there was no water. The few buckets mounting concern about the resources that the 2i/c, ‘Mac’ Lindsay, to be “Ships Visit- (pails) beside the toilets were empty, the are being dedicated to our Canadian Armed ing Officer”, Rotterdam, 2126 hrs, 26 Nov toilets filled with paper and diaper drop- Forces. Until the various defence reviews ‘57. A premonition of things to come pings and the stench was easily discernible. and studies wind their way to completion occurred while enroute from Soest in aged My appeals to the Train Conductor (Ger- the results will not be known. What we coaches (WWII remnants) pulled by an man) went unheeded. (I might as well be know is that the Strathcona family and incredibly dirty, coal-fired locomotive. conversing with a goat). Finally, I resorted to our Society do provide tangible and strong (Things ‘looked up’ when we crossed the “not a threat but a promise” to pull the emer- support to those serving in the Regiment. Dutch border and the new locomotive was gency cord and halt the train/report him to By continuing to support the Newsletter, electric). ... if water wasn’t supplied at a stop the website, the kit shop, the Associations, The dependents disgorged the ship as a (unscheduled) at the next station. (Those the Museum, the Mounted Troop and the dazed rabble – Day 14 from Calgary for bloody buckets were going to be filled!) It many other activities we have in motion we these mothers, children, babies, and wives worked – and from Emmerich to Soest it was are not only getting our own pleasure from – they actually smiled when they saw a all downhill. So, it came to pass that Recce them but also we are supporting our sol- Strathcona (everyone’s morale improved). Sqn and its “camp followers” were re-united. diers and their leaders. I urge you to stay Many had never travelled extensively I was never given a medal for this service involved and keep in contact! before. (‘Pat’ Patterson’s wife, Gwen, had ‘over and above ...” – but I did my bit. Perseverance. never been east of Saskatchewan). The Col Mark Egener accommodations were marginally function- Two days later we left camp on exercise. al. Other units were barred from entering We were operational within BAOR. EVERY NOW AND LdSH (RC) (Ontario Branch) THEN IT TAKES A Report continued TRUE MILITARY Comments from the Commanding Hats. Several serving and retired Strath- MIND TO COME UP conas demonstrated their slices and hooks Officers Hatch continued WITH A CLASSIC including Clive Milner, Jim and Lucille account for the largest Regimental repre- Ellard, Chuck Hills, Roy Forestell, Ron sentation in the Armour School. QUOTE. Francis, Dave Iley, Terry Mayne, John The Regimental main effort is changing In a recent interview, Gen- Russell, Derrald and Mary Prosser, Bob “C” Squadron from tank to Coyote, in and Sheila Billings, Bill and Heather preparation for deployment to Bosnia in eral Norman Schwartzkof Claggett, and Greg Hug. The golf was fol- March with 2 PPCLI. Major ‘Giff’ Gifford was asked if he thought lowed by pre-dinner drinks, dinner, prizes and SSM Brad Murphy have a full sched- there was room for forgive- and lots of draws for gifts. Both John Rus- ule taking their squadron to Wainwright in ness towards the people who sell and Greg Hug were on teams awarded early October for a gun camp, followed by prizes – John’s for doing well and Greg’s for support to Brigade live fire training in have harboured and abetted most honest team (I believe that usually Suffield. “A” Squadron RCD will also join us the terrorists who perpetrat- means you came last!). As John played on to provide the tank squadron for the exer- ed the 9/11 attacks on Amer- the team with the Colonel Commandant, cise. there could be an explanation for his prize In closing, I would like to remind every- ica. as his golf game was a little suspect. This one about the superb Regimental website, His answer: event proved to be fun and was an excel- the work of Kathy Stephen and Cpl Rick “I believe that forgiv- lent opportunity to renew friendships with Allen, at www.strathconas.ca. It is an ing them is God’s func- the more than 80 Black Hat participants. excellent means of keeping up to date on The Branch Executive has been aug- Regimental news, viewing photos of Regi- tion. mented by the addition of LCol Paul mental activities, contacting old friends and Our job is simply to Fleury and Maj Paul Pickell. Their addi- viewing the latest “Shiney” from the Regi- arrange the meeting” tion permits us to keep our balance of serv- mental Kitshop. ing and retired members. LCol J. Cade CD
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Eulogium This year the Strathconas lost two (MBE). He was a good Commanding Offi- battle as Acting Squadron Commander of wartime members in the deaths of Colonel cer. He let we Sqn Commanders get on with “A” Sqn. J. M. McAvity DSO, MBE and Lieu- the job of training and fighting our Bob remained in the Army after the war. tenant-Colonel R. A. Gartke CD. squadrons, asking only that we did it effec- His service took him to many parts of Cana- Col McAvity joined the Regiment on the tively and efficiently. To my mind his most da and on the Canadian Missions to Kash- 15th of August 1943 as the Commander of lasting contribution was to write, while mir and Laos. He attended the Army Staff HQ Squadron. From January, 1940 until “waiting for repatriation” in Holland, a College in India. He served as Acting Sec- June, 1943, when he arrived in England detailed history of the Regiment’s Second ond-in Command of the Fort Garry Horse, a with the Halifax Rifles, he had worked World War experiences. The book “A member of the Directing Staff at the Army closely with General Worthington to set Record Of Achievement” was printed in Staff College and Acting Commander of up the Armoured Fighting Vehicles 1947 and reprinted for Re-union 2000. Over New Brunswick Area. He retired from the Training Centre in Camp Borden. This the years I have found this book a great Forces in 1972 and subsequently joined the involved spending a year in England at var- help, not the least because of the nominal Civil Service. Bob had a facility for infuriat- ious British armoured training and range role and the list of tank names and crews. ing some people but an even greater facili- establishments. He was personally respon- Col McAvity served as Colonel of the Regi- ty for making and retaining friends across a sible for setting up the Meaford Tank ment from 1965 to 1973. BGen George wide spectrum of activities, a number of Range. Col McAvity was appointed Com- Wattsford and Col Greg Hug represented whom were at the cemetery. Bob was manding Officer to succeed LCol Griffin in the Regiment at the funeral in Brockville, buried at the National Military Cemetery on June 1944. He commanded the Regiment Ontario on 16 April 2002. 17 July 2002. The Regiment was represent- for the remainder of the war (except the ed at the funeral by Col Craig Fletcher, several times when he lost his voice and LCol Bob Gartke joined the Regiment LCol’s Dave Rundle, Paul Fleury and had to hand over to Maj Symmes) and from the Royal Military College on the 11th Roy Forestall and Maj’s John Malevich brought it back to Winnipeg on 17 January, of February 1941 as a Troop Leader. It was and Pascal Demers. 1946. He was awarded the Distinguished his troop in “A” Sqn that was the first tank Perseverance. Service Order (DSO) and made a Mem- troop to reach the Melfa River on 24 May W. A. Milroy ber of the Order of the British Empire 1944. He emerged from the ensuing tank LGen (retd)
Remembering a Hero continued At War’s end he returned to Calgary as a regiment 15 December 1938. He command- first hand its condition. The grave was not Captain and chose to remain in the Army as ed the Strathcona’s until 20 July 1940. as bad as assumed but still, here was a Vic- a career officer. In the 1920’s he attended a LCol Harvey remained in Calgary after his toria Cross recipient who had a family head- Physical Training Instructors course in the tenure as CO. He became Commandant of stone and who was entitled to something UK, returning to Royal Military College Currie Barracks and shortly thereafter much different. at Kingston, Ontario where he served as was promoted to Brigadier General and The task to investigate was sent out to Physical Education Officer until 1927. As an Commander of 13th Alberta Military members of the Regiment which resulted in athlete and equestrian he continued to District, a position he held to his retire- getting Mr. Wayne Ramsay of the Depart- excel. As a regimental officer in the late 20’s ment. The Harvey’s only son was killed in ment of Veterans Affairs in P.E.I. agree- and 30’s he won the Guides Challenge Cup action in Europe in 1945. ing that they would provide the headstone if three times for a demanding 15-mile cross BGen Harvey died in the Colonel Belch- all the proper documentation and authoriza- country horse race. He initiated the “Annu- er Hospital on 21 August 1980 at age 92 tions were acquired.It took almost a year to al Recruit’s Boxing Championship” a tradi- and was buried in Fort MacLeod, 25 August. see that all was completed and in October tion in the Regiment until the 60’s. He also In 1980 a small wooden cross was placed 2000, twenty years after his passing a cere- directed the Regimental Polo Team to victo- on the grave to mark the final resting place mony was held in Fort MacLeod to rededi- ry in the Alberta and Western Canadian of this highly decorated soldier. This wood- cate the new headstone to our fallen hero. Championship in 1934. en cross would later be replaced with a fam- WO Darryl Crowell MB, CD Promoted to Major in 1928, he command- ily headstone marking the graves of both ed “B” Squadron in Calgary until moving Brigadier and Mrs. Harvey. Mrs. Harvey to command “A” Squadron in Winnipeg in died in 1988 and was to be buried beside her 1935. He subsequently attended the British husband however this did not happen and Army Senior Officer’s Course and after subsequently she was buried at the Angli- returning to Canada was promoted to Lieu- can Cemetery in Millarville, which she con- tenant Colonel assuming command of the sidered home since shortly after the war when they purchased their farm. This should be the end but not so. With their son’s death in WW II there was no immediate family left to look after the grave and from time to time members of the Reg- iment would drop down to Fort MacLeod to see the grave of this brave soldier of the Strathcona’s. The town of Fort MacLeod took care of the gravesite in the usual fash- ion and nothing more was done. In winter 1998, the regiment received a letter from Mr. James C. Marshall, stating his con- cern over the poor condition BGen Harvey’s grave and its state of disrepair. After the 1982 snow cleared a trip to investigate and see October 2000
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NOTES FROM THE EDITOR LAST TRUMPET CALL In addition to those acknowledged with BECKETT J.M. (Murray) WW2, Korea, Regular, age 77, 22 Jun 01, Rocky Mountain their “Letters”, it is with great appreciation House, AB that we wish to acknowledged messages BLAIR G.M. (‘Barney’) WW2, age 81, 20 Mar 02, Maxville, ON with donations to the Society from: Hugh Fleming, George Fox, Alex Frey, Frank CADE J.D. (‘Jack’) WW2, Regular, age 81, 18 Oct 02, Cowichan Bay, BC Karwandy, Tom MacDougall, Hugh ELLIOTT T.C. (Tom) WW2, Regular, age 87, 04 Jul 02, Calgary, AB Mackie, Peter Nichita, Margaret Pax- FRIPP G.I. (Geoffrey) WW2, age 94, 28 Jul 02, Montreal, QC ton, Robert Plumridge, Dave Ryan, Dave Sproule, Roy Steinki, Stan Tall, GARTKE R.A. (Bob) WW2, Regular, age 80, 17 May 02,Vanier, ON Garth Woodrow. Please let me know if GOEBEL L.V. (Len) Korea, Regular, age 72, 02 May 02, Wainwright. AB I missed anyone. The monies will be used HOBBS G.W. (Garnet) WW2, age 88, 25 Sep 02, Vernon, BC as directed by donor(s) i.e. Newsletter, KAVANAGH R.L. (Bob) Regular, age 62, St Johns, NF Museum, Mounted Troop, or Society discretion. KENNEDY J.T. (Terry) Korea, Regular, age 73, 20 Sep 02, Calgary, AB Anyone, who has donated money to the McAVITY J.M. (Jim) WW2, age 93, 14 Apr 02, Brockville, ON Regimental Society and has not received PANKHURST R.L. (Ron) Regular, age 73, 17 May 02, Calgary, AB a letter of acknowledgment if applicable, is requested to let me know. Make your PHEIFER R.F. (Bob) Regular, age 59, 07 Jul 02, Boswell, BC cheque payable to “LdSH (RC) Society.” POWER J.P. (Jim) Regular, age 57, 25 Feb 02, St Johns, NF There continues to be some confusion ROSA W.E. (Warren) WW2, Korea, Regular, age 80, 04 May 02, Boswell, BC among readers as to whether the Newslet- ter is put out by the Regiment, the Soci- STUMPF J. (John) Korea, age 74, 07 May 02, Nepean, ON ety, or a local branch of the Association. SUMMERTON B.W.A. (Ben) WW2, Regular, age 77, 22 Apr 02, Calgary, AB This creates some problems in handling of TAYLOR M.C. (Eddy) WW2, Korea, Age 75, 04 Feb 02, Scarborough, ON donations because many readers unknow- VAN LUVEN C.B. (Charlie) Korea, Regular, age 71, Apr 02 Lipton, SK ingly make donations that are not eligible for tax receipts. The problem is further YEOMANS C.W. (Colby) Regular, Korea, age 72, 11 Sep 02, Dutch Valley, NB complicated by each of the regimental ele- ments having a different address. The In Loving Memory of Wives SOCIETY (which is, all Strathconas on CADY LOU (Earl) 03 Dec 01, Calgary, AB the Family Role, being its membership) CLIFFORD ELLEN (Frank) produces the Newsletter. However, it 06 Mar 01, Willowdale, ON should be noted that the overall generosity COLES JENNY (Jim) 06 Apr 02, Calgary, AB of the readers continues. FREY EVELYN (Alex) 12 July 02, Hasting, ON The policy for the handling of donations GALLANT HESTER (Gord) 23 Jun 02, Sudbury, ON to the Newsletter, (which applies also to the Mounted Troop, Museum or the GRAHAM DOROTHY (Harry) 02 Apr 02, Barrie, ON Society in general) is to ensure that: GRAY IRENE (Roy) 20 01, Port Colborne, ON • all donations are processed through JAHRAUS MARY (Harry deceased) 20 May 02, Maple Creek, SK the Society Secretariat i.e. ‘Muck- er’ Langan. McKINNON-CROCKFORD MYRTLE (Duncan deceased) ?? Sep 01, Victoria,BC Cheques are forwarded to the Regi- McADAM BOBBI (ne Camponi) (Wayne) 09 Jun 02, Calgary, AB mental Accounts and processed as ROSA ANNE (Warren deceased) 09 Jul 99, Boswell, BC quickly as possible. WERTYPORA IRENE (Tony deceased) 03 Nov 01, N.Vancouver,BC All donations (names, not amount) are acknowledged in each edition of the Newsletter. “May They Rest in Peace” For the Spring 2003 edition of the ______Newsletter, please forward your reports, (My apologies for lack of details in some cases. Ed) letters, anecdotes, articles, photos, etc by the 15 Feb 2003. ‘Mucker’ Langan
Lost Trails The following had their Newsletter BC. Bert Stallard, Vernon, BC. Cliff Stewart Thexton, Winnipeg, MB. George returned by Canada Post with the nota- Jacobson, Medicine Hat, AB. ‘Red’ Laney, Fudge, Woodlawn, ON. Glendon Moore, tion “MOVED”. If any reader knows the Bonnyville, AB. Sean McMaster, Calgary, Barrie, ON. Richard Turner, Oshawa, ON. current whereabouts of these individuals AB. Ed Mittelstadt, Edmonton, AB. Harry Clarkin, Chatham, NB. Don Mur- would you, or have them, notify this office. Wayne Smith, Lacombe, AB. Ron rin, Oromocto, NB. Stewart Pinsent, Agnes Baker, Victoria, BC. Barry Mac- Thompson, Calgary, AB. Dale Tilling, Fredericton, NB. Donald, Langley, BC. George Smith, N. Saskatoon, SK. Fred Tisdale, Swift Cur- Vancouver, BC. Jim Skinner, Nanaimo, rent, SK. Chris Eyres, Winnipeg, MB.
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