NTOG in action - Trident Newspaper
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Monday July 12, 2021 Volume 55, Issue 14
www.tridentnewspaper.com
NTOG
in action
Members of the Royal Canadian Navy’s
Naval Tactical Operations Group (NTOG)
demonstrate ship drills to multinational
partners during Exercise SEA BREEZE 21
in Odessa, Ukraine on July 5. The NTOG
personnel were joined by clearance div-
ers from Fleet Diving Units Atlantic and
Pacific as part of the CAF contribution
to the exercise, which involved more than
5,000 military members from 30 different
countries. Read more inside on Page 7.
CPL DANIEL CHIASSON, CAF PHOTO
2 TRIDENT NEWS JULY 12, 2021
HMCS Margaret Brooke (hull 431) is seen alongside the future HMCS Max Bernays (hull 432) at Irving Shipbuilding’s Halifax facility. Margaret Brooke, the RCN’s second Arc-
tic and Offshore Patrol Ship, will be delivered to the RCN on July 15.
IRVING SHIPBUILDING
HMCS Margaret Brooke before she died on January 9, 2016.
On her 100th birthday, April 10,
2015, the Minister of National De-
Margaret Brooke has a busy
sailing schedule ahead, and will
now officially be Cdr Robichaud’s
crew ready to receive
fence, then Jason Kenney, called command at sea.
her to tell her that the second “We will be sailing for the next
AOPS would bear her name, year, conducting post-acceptance
marking another couple of “firsts” trials, testing and trialing all
second Arctic vessel for the former Nursing Sister —
the first woman to have a Canadi-
an warship named for her and the
aspects of the machinery and
equipment, with a plan to partic-
ipate in Operation Nanook in the
first time such a ship was named fall of 2022,” she said.
By Joanie Veitch, for a living person.
Trident Staff
The delivery of the Arctic and Offshore “COVID has had an impact on everyone,
Patrol Ship HMCS Margaret Brooke, everywhere,” said Cdr Robichaud. “It has
INSURANCE
scheduled for July 15th in Halifax, marks affected everything from material, parts,
an important milestone both for the Royal labour and timelines, to training, morale,
Canadian Navy and for the ship’s crew.
“The crew of Margaret Brooke finally has
personnel requirements and taskings.”
Irving Shipbuilding, the Canadian ship- THAT GOES
a ship to call their own,” said Cdr Nicole
Robichaud, HMCS Margaret Brooke’s Com-
builder and in-service support provider,
put the ship through its builder trials in
WHERE YOU
manding Officer. “The delivery would not
be possible without the dedication of the
mid-May. Now, with the acceptance of Mar-
garet Brooke, the ship is “one step closer to
GO
crew, who have spent the better part of the becoming part of the Fleet,” said Cdr Nicole
last year to 18 months training and learning Robichaud.
about this ship.” “We are quite fortunate to have had Har- Rely on coverage with no
The second AOPS of six being built ry DeWolf complete its post acceptance peri-
through the National Shipbuilding Strat- od so that we can learn from, and improve
exclusions for war, extreme
egy by Irving Shipbuilding, its delivery is on, practices that are unique to being a new hobbies or sports.
a highly anticipated event, Cdr Robichaud class of ship,” said Cdr Robichaud. “Harry Whether you’re on the
added. DeWolf has done a great job at blazing the
frontlines or the home front,
“Not only is a new ship entering into ser- path so that we are not learning everything
vice with the Royal Canadian Navy, but a from scratch.” SISIP Financial’s Term Life
new capability is also being introduced and The first of the six AOPS, Harry De- Insurance is battle-tested
Margaret Brooke will directly contribute to Wolf, was delivered in August 2020. The for the rigours of military life.
achieving global Canadian objectives.” third AOPS, HMCS Max Bernays, will be
Give us a call to explore your
Training in preparation for delivery launched later in 2021.
has involved the ship’s company in both A commissioning ceremony for HMCS options. 1-800-267-6681
computer-based learning and a practical Margaret Brooke is planned for October
training program at various shore-based 2022, tying in with the 80th anniversary of
facilities, as well as on board HMCS Harry the sinking of the SS Caribou, the steam-
DeWolf, the first AOPS, said LCdr Dusty ship passenger ferry that linked Newfound-
Allen, Margaret Brooke’s Executive Officer. land to Nova Scotia before it was torpedoed
“While this training ensures we are and sunk by a German submarine on Octo-
well-postured to receive the ship, nothing ber 14, 1942. Nursing Sister LCdr Margaret
can replace the pride and ownership of Brooke, who was on the ship, received a
having a unit to call your own,” he said, Member (Military Division) of the Order
commending the “incredible work ethic, of the British Empire for her efforts to
enthusiasm and pride” the ship’s crew have save her friend, Nursing Sister S-Lt Agnes Cdr Corey Gleason, the ship’s command-
shown. Wilkie, after the sinking, becoming the first ing officer, hands the commissioning
The journey to delivery day was a rough Canadian woman to receive the award. pennant to a member of his crew during
one at times, with the COVID-19 pandemic Remaining a member of the Navy until the ceremony.
introducing numerous challenges. 1962, Margaret Brooke was 100 years old SISIP.COM
MONA GHIZ, MARLANT PA
TRIDENT NEWS JULY 12, 2021 3
www.tridentnewspaper.com
Atlantic Fleet Sailor of the Year
MS Steven Lannon earns top leadership award
Editor: Ryan Melanson
ryan.melanson@psphalifax.ca By Joanie Veitch,
(902) 427-4235 Trident Staff
Reporter: Joanie Veitch
joanie.veitch@psphalifax.ca Master Sailor Steven Lannon likes
(902) 427-4238 to keep things light, joking around and
Editorial Advisor: Margaret Conway enjoying a laugh with the other sailors
margaret.conway@forces.gc.ca
on board ship, but when it’s time for
902-721-0560
serious work, he’s always ready for a
challenge.
Editorial Advisor: Ariane Guay-Jadah
That spirit of leadership and will-
Ariane.Guay-Jadah@forces.gc.ca
ingness to consistently go above and
902-721-8341
beyond his regular duties has earned
www.tridentnewspaper.com MS Lannon the Atlantic Fleet’s Sailor
Trident is an authorized military publication distributed of the Year award, which he received
across Canada and throughout the world every second at Tribute Tower on June 23 — in Mr.
Monday, and is published with the permission of Rear
Admiral Brian Santarpia, Commander, Joint Task Force Mac’s Room — with Commodore Rich-
Atlantic. The Editor reserves the right to edit, condense ard Feltham, Commander Canadian
or reject copy, photographs or advertising to achieve the
aims of a service newspaper as defined by the Interim Fleet Atlantic (CANFLTLANT), and
Canadian Forces Newspapers Policy dated April 11, Fleet Chief CP01 Darcy Burd present-
2005. Deadline for copy and advertising is 10 a.m., 11
business days prior to the publication date. Material must ing.
be accompanied by the contributor’s name, address and “We are blessed with extraordinary
phone number. Opinions and advertisements printed
in Trident are those of the individual contributor or people in our fleet. We have the best
advertiser and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or and the brightest Canada has to offer,”
endorsements of the DND, the Editor or the Publisher.
Cmdre Feltham said. “To have been
Le Trident est une publication militaire autorisée par le
contre-amiral Brian Santarpia, Commandant la force chosen as the best of all that group is
opérationnelle interarmées de l‘Atlantique, qui est significant, it really is significant.”
distribuée partout au Canada et outremer les lundis
toutes les quinzaines. Le rédacteur en chef se réserve When MS Lannon, who began his MS Steven Lannon received Canadian Fleet Atlantic’s 2020 Sailor of the Year award
le droit de modifier, de condenser ou de rejeter les career with the Navy in 2009 as a Hull from Cmdre Richard Feltham, Commander Canadian Fleet Atlantic (CANFLTLANT),
articles, photographies ou annonces publicitaires
jugées contraires aux objectifs d’un journal militaire Technician, now a Marine Technician on June 23 at Tribute Tower.
selon la définition donnée à politique temporaire des (MARTECH), joined the crew of HMCS MONA GHIZ, MARLANT PA
journaux des forces canadiennes. L’heure de tombée des
annonces publi- citaires ou des articles est fixée à 1000 St. John’s in June 2020, the ship was
le jeudi précédant la semaine de publication. Les textes getting ready for an extended mainte-
peuvent être soumis en français ou en anglais; ils doivent firefighting position, the ship didn’t support.
indiquer le nom, l’adresse et le numéro de téléphone du nance period. This required a complete have a coordinator for the vital role Now, with COVID-19 restrictions
collaborateur. Les opinions et les annonces publicitaires de-storing of the ship and total crew
imprimées par le Trident sont celles des collaborateurs et of helicopter crash rescue firefighting beginning to lift, MS Lannon hopes to
agents publicitaires et non nécessairement celles de la swap to HMCS Ville de Québec — all (HCRFF) on board ship. get home to Paradise, NL for the first
rédaction, du MDN ou de l’éditeur.
during strict COVID-19 protocols. While MS Lannon had the full time in a year and a half with his wife
Annual Subscription (25 issues): “To meet the restrictions, we went HCRFF training, to be able to take Kimberley, who works at the IWK
• NS: $37.38 ($32.50 + 15 % HST)
• ON, NB & NFLD: $36.73 ($32.50 + 13% HST) in after hours and worked late nights. on that operational role and enable Health Centre, and their two-year-old
• BC: $36.40 ($32.50 + 12% HST) It was a hard time but we did a lot of HMCS Ville de Québec to take part in son Liam.
• Remainder of Canada:
$34.13 ($32.50 + GST) check-ins to make sure everyone was the upcoming exercises, he needed to He’s also looking forward to spend-
• United States: $45 US doing ok,” said MS Lannon. recertify immediately. ing time at home and keeping busy
• Abroad: $65 US
As the crew worked to get Ville de “I had to step up into that role to with projects around the house. Three
Courier address:
2740 Barrington Street, Québec ready for the multinational Op- enable the ship to be capable for flight years ago MS Lannon and his wife
Halifax, N.S. eration NANOOK 20 happening in the ops. It was a big responsibility but I built a house in Brookside; he said he
B3K 5X5
Eastern Arctic in early August, to be was able to take on the challenge,” said loves spending his time off doing yard
Publication Mail Agreement No.
40023785 followed by the UK-led Exercise JOINT MS Lannon. work and just being outdoors.
Return undelivered Canadian address to: WARRIOR in October, the ship’s Accepting his award, MS Lannon “I like to challenge myself,” he said.
Trident Newspaper Bldg. S-93 command team hit a major snag. The gave credit as well to his co-workers in “When I get a job done, I feel a great
PO Box 99000
Station Forces, Halifax, NS B3K 5X5 senior firefighter on the ship — usual- the Marine Systems Engineers (MSE) sense of accomplishment. It’s just good
Return Postage Guaranteed ly a job held by a Petty Officer, Second department for their hard work, saying to keep busy.
ISN 0025-3413
Class — was unable to sail. he wouldn’t have been able to take on
Circulation: Minimum 8,500
Without someone in the senior the extra responsibility without their
Student Virtual
Welcome
On June 23rd, the CFB Halifax Base Commander and Base Chief
hosted a virtual welcome event for the 49 students working at vari-
ous units across CFB Halifax this summer. The Base Commander
and Base Chief spoke to the students about their current roles and
how the Base team – our student workforce included — contributes
to military-led and supported operations both home and abroad.
Welcome to all new and returning students, and thank you for all
that you do for our Base community!
SUBMITTED
4 TRIDENT NEWS JULY 12, 2021
Navy are selected leaders who “Without the wisdom of our
have distinguished themselves elders and our ancestors we
in their private or public life. would not know how to love
They act as ambassadors for the ourselves unconditionally and
Navy to the Canadian people,” to love others with the same
RAdm Santarpia said. tenacity; to respect each other
He listed her many achieve- and the differences we all have
ments — including the National and that each of our spirits are
Aboriginal Women in Lead- unique and beautiful,” she said,
ership Award of Distinction, highlighting the teachings of
the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee each of the guiding principles.
medal for her work in advo- As one of the two military
cating for cultural awareness members instrumental in cre-
of Aboriginal people within ating the DND/CAF Eagle Staff
the CAF, and her work in the — carried at the scroll and
creation of the DND/CAF Eagle pin ceremony by Petty Officer
Staff, the travelling symbol of 1st Class Katerina Stewart —
unity among Indigenous people HCapt(N) Eisan recalled how
in the military. RAdm Santar- she and Petty Officer 2nd Class
pia said Hon Capt(N) Eisan Chris Innes, from Whitefish
has also played a key role as a River First Nation, were work-
“valued advisor” to senior mil- ing together in 2002 when they
itary leadership on Indigenous each had a dream of an Eagle
matters. Staff. Sharing their vision with
“She was and continues to be, each other the next morning,
a strong voice for Indigenous the two went on to create the
members of the Canadian Forc- DND/CAF Eagle Staff as a
es, and veterans… Debbie, I powerful emblem of unity, hon-
have to say that we are the ones ouring current and past Indig-
who are humbled and honoured enous members in the defence
that you have been appointed community.
as honorary captain… you are “This Eagle Staff serves as a
truly remarkable.” reminder of the tenacity and
Hon Capt(N) Debbie Eisan receives her pin from RAdm Brian Santarpia at a scroll and pin presenta- While her military training the strong and proud service of
tion on June 21. PO1 Katerina Stewart is carrying the DND/CAF Eagle Staff. helped shape her career, in Indigenous people within the
MONA GHIZ, MARLANT PA her keynote address following CAF,” said HCapt(N) Eisan.
the presentation, Hon Capt(N) “So, you see, dreams do come
New Hon Capt (N) says
Eisan also spoke about the true, but not always in the way
intrinsic value of Anishinaabe you expect...if we open our eyes
knowledge that has been passed and watch for the signals, we’ll
down through the generations achieve our dreams.”
Anishinaabe teachings
through the Seven Grandfather
teachings of wisdom, love, re-
spect, bravery, honesty, humili-
ty and truth.
and RCN background
helped her become
a leader
By Joanie Veitch,
Trident Staff
“Picture it: beautiful Batchewana First Na- held on June 21 as part of her appointment
tion in northern Ontario. A shy young Anishi- as an Honorary Captain (Navy), now Hon
naabekwe had a dream… ” Capt(N) Eisan said she is proud to be an
Chief Petty Officer 2nd Class (Ret’d) Deborah ambassador for the RCN and feels “honoured
Eisan’s dream of becoming a nurse and travel- and humbled” to be affiliated with the future
ling the world didn’t work out quite as she had HMCS Margaret Brooke, a ship named for a
envisioned growing up. Instead, in her 36-year female veteran and commanded by a woman
career with the Royal Canadian Navy, she
travelled to more than 20 countries, developed
new skills, and played a key role in recruiting
— Cdr Nicole Robichaud.
The event was held in the Admiral’s Confer-
ence Room at Maritime Forces Atlantic Head-
HOISTEX during
and mentoring Indigenous youth through the
Canadian Forces Aboriginal Entry Program
quarters with limited in-person attendance
and many more watching online via. DYNAMIC MONGOOSE 21
and various summer training options, such as Raymond Sewell, a musician from the
the Raven and Black Bear programs. Mi’kmaq community of Pabineau, NB, The CH-148 Cyclone deployed with SNMG1 Flagship HMCS Halifax,
“I did not become a nurse, but I joined the drummed and sang the Mi’kmaw Honour callsign Kingfisher, conducts a hoist exercise with Norwegian
Canadian Armed Forces at the age of 17 and Song, and Chief Dean Sayers, Chief of Batch- Submarine HNoMS Utvaer, with French Frigate FNS Alsace seen
never looked back. It was the military that ewana First Nations, gave congratulatory in the background, during exercise DYNAMIC MONGOOSE 21 on
gave me the courage to stand up for who I am remarks before Rear-Admiral Brian Santar- July 4. The exercise, hosted by Norway and Iceland, takes place with
and to be proud of my culture and my heri- pia, Commander Maritime Forces Atlantic, NATO allies each summer in the High North. This marked the first
tage,” she said. “The military gave me the con- presented Hon Capt(N) Eisan with her Honor- time a CH-148 Cyclone has completed a hoist with a submarine from a
fidence to express my thoughts and opinions.” ary Captain Scroll and Pin. partner nation.
At a scroll and pin presentation ceremony “Honorary Captains in the Royal Canadian SNMG1
TRIDENT NEWS JULY 12, 2021 5
BALTOPS 2021 took place from June 6-18 in the Baltic Sea, with 18 NATO nations participating, including HMC ships Summerside, Kingston, and Halifax representing Canada.
LT JEFFREY MCBRIDE
Of Waves, Whalers,
and Mines: A voyage
across northern Europe
By S2 Natassia Lei,
HMCS Summerside
The day HMCS Summerside and HMCS Northern Ireland emerged from the fog?
Kingston departed Halifax in early May I vividly recall standing out on the sweep
was a day unlike any other. Excitement deck as my senses were overwhelmed with Members of HMCS Summerside and HMCS Kingston participated in a tri-
struck the ships’ companies as anticipa- smells and sights which I had not felt in city Battle of the Atlantic memorial ceremony while alongside in Londonder-
tion of our upcoming sail drew nearer. days. Seagulls circled the ship, crying out ry, Northern Ireland.
There was an air of calm busyness about in their mysterious avian tones. In the dis- LT JEFFREY MCBRIDE
the ships, punctuated by experienced tance, I could make out the waves, crash-
professionalism. For some, this was their ing onto shorelines long-awaited. It was a
first sail, a chance to see Europe and gain land shrouded in a light morning fog, and
their sea legs. For others, this would check smelled of fresh salty air and the promise
another box in their sea-going career. of adventures.
We left with several tasks. Foremost, How fortunate we were to be able to
the ships’ main goal was to participate travel during these trying times. With
in BALTOPS 2021, a NATO-led exercise travel restrictions still in place in many
with our oversea allies. We were to join a provinces and territories, it was a sober-
NATO task group conducting Naval Mine ing reminder that the young sailors and
Warfare in the Baltic Sea. As a secondary soldiers of the Second World War also
purpose, we were also instructed to patri- crossed the ocean when the world was in
ate an Admiralty’s Trawler Whaler from a state of emergency. They too would have
the United Kingdom back to Canada. departed from Halifax, boarding merchant
We set out with little fanfare for our vessels and warships bound for Europe.
mission in the Baltic Sea. It would be a Likewise, St. John’s, Newfoundland was
12-day transit from Halifax, Nova Scotia to their last port of call on the western side
Londonderry, Northern Ireland. of the Atlantic and Londonderry was their
After a brief stop in St. John’s, New- first on the east. It was fitting then, that
foundland to refuel, we began our trip our visit coincided with events marking
across the roaring Atlantic Ocean. In the the 76th anniversary of the Battle of the
grand scheme of a life, 12 days is but a Atlantic. The crew attended a solemn cer-
drop in the bucket, but with a storm to emony, where a crowd of spectators had
our stern and a storm to our bow, it was a formed outside the gates. The highlight
The two RCN ships participated in a ceremony in Portsmouth, UK on June
wild dash in the hope of threading rough of the event was the striking of the bell.
24 to receive the last Second World War era Admiralty Trawler boat, which
waters. How, then, could we not feel a Eight times it rang in Halifax, eight times
will soon be on display in Halifax.
sense of relief as the lush green shores of it rang in St. John’s, and eight times it
LT JEFFREY MCBRIDE
6 TRIDENT NEWS JULY 12, 2021
rang in Londonderry. This symbolical- amphibious landing. In the long run, last of her kind. Seemingly innocuous reflect and gain a new perspective.
ly marked the end of the watch for the we were to increase our interopera- at first glance, she is a reminder that What I have learned is that I am never
fallen. Yet their memories still echo bility with our NATO allies. After a a ship requires all her equipment in alone. There may be times when there
across time. From the Second World grueling few weeks which challenged order to achieve her mission. The is nothing around save the deep blue
War to the present, and from the pres- our naval capabilities in a variety of whaler’s contribution may have been sea and tempest-tossed waters. Nev-
ent into the future, theirs is the legacy ways, we succeeded in clearing a path small, but the corvettes on which she ertheless, a call for help only requires
we bear. With this dedication in mind for the amphibious assault. To cap was attached were key in ensuring a press of the button, the raising of a
and at heart, we departed Londonder- off the mission, we participated in a safe transit for Allied shipping during flag, or the flashing of a light. Like the
ry and proceeded to our next port: grand naval tradition called a steam the Battle of the Atlantic. The Naval sea, our world may seem uncertain
Portsmouth. past. The ships in our task group as- Museum at CFB Halifax has gra- and overwhelming at times, but it
Originally a Roman port, Ports- sembled into a line and, taking turns, ciously accepted her; the final extant does well to remember that we have
mouth lies on the south coast of En- the last ship would steam to the front. whaler in the same port as the final friends, allies, and fellow mariners
gland and is home to the UK’s largest Rails were manned, fire hoses were extant corvette. It is appropriate then close by.
naval base. Less than a few hours after made ready, and our crew was encour- that HMCS Summerside brings her For a country bound by three
pulling into port, what should ap- aged to display our national pride. back. Why? Walking through our ship, oceans, the Arctic, the Pacific, and
pear off our port bow but HMS Queen I would like to report that as HMCS one can easily spot her battle hon- the Atlantic, crossing one of them is
Elizabeth, one of the UK’s largest and Summerside steamed from the back of ours. In yellow letters it boldly states: a Canadian rite of passage. From the
newest aircraft carriers. Sheltering in the formation to the front, she ensured ATLANTIC 1941-1944 ATLANTIQUE. earliest explorers to sight the shores
harbour until the seas subsided, she that every ship she passed was ap- This shared heritage between our two of the Americas to the Canadian
certainly improved the view out of our propriately christened with a healthy countries is not only a reminder of the sailors onboard HMCS Summerside
window! The following day brought dose of sea water. paths we have sailed together, but also and HMCS Kingston, the ocean is a
another surprise. The news spread Our mission accomplished, we of the ones we intend to take as we threshold between lands, cultures, and
rapidly that Her Majesty Queen Eliz- began the voyage home. Yet, like the continue into the future. history. Sailing has afforded me the
abeth II herself would be visiting her brave Odysseus of Greek mythology, In these difficult pandemic times, opportunity to not only see the world,
aircraft carrier. The precise timing we had a few more stops along the it is all the more important to take but to see the humanity in each person
was unannounced but by a stroke of way. A few days were shaved off our stock of our priorities in life. Having I encounter. Fair winds and following
luck, I happened to be by the binocu- transit by a venture through the Ger- the opportunity to travel during these seas.
lars when her royal helicopter landed. man Kiel Canal. Entering through the two months has afforded me time to
Although our view was restricted, we Baltic Sea, we were met by brick-faced
managed to catch a quick glimpse of walls adorned with vibrant vines. The
the Queen. recreational paths along the shoreline
As we progressed to our main mis- were full of pedestrians and cyclists
sion, we enjoyed a few other high- enjoying a mild spring day. After a
lights along the way. Prior to Ports- trip through the locks, we emerged
mouth, we had a short detour to the on the other side, bound once again
Giant’s Causeway, site of the legend- for Portsmouth where we were tasked
ary battle between the Irish giant Finn with a notable duty.
McCool and his Scottish counterpart, On May 24th, HMCS Summerside
the giant Benandonner (Finn McCool had the honour and privilege of patri-
won). After Portsmouth, we paused off ating an Admiralty’s Trawler Whaler
the coast of Germany for some aquatic back to Canada. Coming alongside
PT. The sea was salty, but the thrill of once again in Portsmouth, UK on June
jumping in the cool waters temporari- 22, we had our first look at the weath-
ly appeased our weary souls. ered wooden boat. Within her tired
By the time June rolled around, we timbers lay a history which cannot be
were in Klaipeda, Lithuania for our adequately expressed in words. At 16
mission – BALTOPS. Stretching all feet long, 7 feet wide and approximate-
along the jetty were minesweepers ly half a ton, her clinker hull bears
and minehunters from NATO na- witness to craftsmanship wrought
tions, including Germany, Lithuania, with expert hands. She serves as a
Norway, and Poland. Our mission was portal to the past. As the standard boat
OPFOR boats attacking HMCS Summerside during a Force Protection Serial during
twofold. In the short term, it was to issued to the Flower-class corvettes
BALTOPS near Klaipeda, Lithuania.
clear mined waters prior to the main (such as HMCS Sackville), she is the
A/SLT DAVID LINDSAY
Members of HMCS Summerside’s Force Protection component reacting to threats HMCS KINGSTON (700) pictured with other International Vessels in the Baltron Task
during the Force Protection Serial. Group during SAREX Serial (off Lithuania).
A/SLT DAVID LINDSAY A/SLT DAVID LINDSAY
TRIDENT NEWS JULY 12, 2021 7
Royal Canadian Navy clearance divers conduct a force integration training dive with A member of the Naval Tactical Operations Group (NTOG) leads the hotwash with
other participating navies during Exercise SEA BREEZE 21 in Odessa, Ukraine on multinational partners following ship drills training during Exercise SEA BREEZE on
July 1. July 5.
LT(N) IGOR POLOSIN, CAF PHOTO CPL DANIEL CHIASSON, CAF PHOTO
CAF deploys 24 military personnel to
support Exercise SEA BREEZE 21
By Major Christopher Daniel,
RCN Public Affairs
The Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) has deployed Exercise SEA BREEZE 21 is about training preventative measure, and are required to comply with
24 military personnel to Odessa, Ukraine to partic- together and making new friends based on a shared local health protocols, wear a mask, observe physical
ipate in Exercise SEA BREEZE 21 from June 28 to commitment to peace and stability in Europe. distancing and regularly sanitize hands. These measures
July 13, 2021. This exercise will see more than 30 participating aim to ensure our members remain safe, healthy and able
This annual exercise is co-hosted by the United countries, 32 ships, 40 aircraft, approximately 5,000 to complete their mission.
States Navy and the Ukrainian Navy, with the troops and 18 special operations and dive teams. Exercise SEA BREEZE is an annual multinational
support of NATO’s Partnership for Peace program. These partner militaries are training together in military training exercise conducted on the territory of
The CAF delegation supporting this exercise is maritime operations and supporting information Ukraine since 1997, in accordance with a memorandum of
composed of Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) clearance sharing and awareness of the maritime domain. understanding and cooperation between the U.S. Min-
divers from Fleet Diving Units (FDU) Pacific and This exercise will enable and enhance collabora- istry of Defence and Ministry of Defence of Ukraine of
Atlantic, members from the Naval Tactical Opera- tive naval operations amongst maritime security 1993. Co-hosted by the United States and Ukraine, other
tions Group (NTOG) and staff officer mentors. partners in the Black Sea. participating countries in this year’s exercise include
“SEA BREEZE focuses on the interoperability of As a part of the exercise, clearance divers from Algeria, Austria, Australia, Bangladesh, Brazil, Bulgar-
maritime, ground and air forces of the participat- FDUs Pacific and Atlantic, members from NTOG ia, Denmark, Egypt, Estonia, Finland, France, Georgia,
ing nations, and improves our combined capabil- and staff officer mentors are sharing their best Greece, Israel, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Lithuania, Moldova,
ities to execute maritime security operations,” practices with the Ukrainian Navy. The expertise Morocco, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Romania,
said Capt (N) Robert Taylor, the CAF Contingent that they bring to the exercise is noteworthy. In Senegal, Spain, South Korea, Sweden, Turkey and the
Commander. “Our participation in this exercise fact, RCN clearance divers are experts in salvage, United Kingdom.
strengthens our ties with partner navies and fur- inspections, training, search and survey, hyperbar-
ther improves our ability to successfully work to- ic medicine, submarine rescue, fleet maintenance,
gether on multinational operations and missions.” and dockyard support.
The RCN’s participation in Exercise SEA What’s more, a team from NTOG is sharing their
BREEZE 21 is part of Operation UNIFIER, the CAF techniques in advanced boarding operations at sea.
military training and capacity-building mission in NTOG is a dedicated unit within the RCN whose
Ukraine. expertise includes intercepting suspect vessels in
“Operation UNIFIER is Canada’s contribution order to prevent the movement of illicit cargo and
to assist the Security Forces of Ukraine through materiel at sea, called Maritime Interdiction Oper-
capability and capacity building in coordination ations, and protecting Navy ships, infrastructure
ROCK CAMP
with the other countries providing similar types of and personnel.
assistance,” said Lieutenant-Colonel Melanie Lake, “Our participation in SEA BREEZE is significant
Commander Joint Task Force-Ukraine. for the RCN because engagements and exercises
“CAF’s contribution to this year’s iteration of with partner navies help build mutual understand-
SEA BREEZE demonstrates Canada’s commitment ing, gain trust, improve interoperability, and en- Come join us for our PSP Rock Camp!
to enhancing Canadian, Ukrainian and NATO hance the operational readiness of the RCN around For ages Ages 7-18 | Aug 3rd-6th, | 0800-1700 hrs
interoperability by training and exercising togeth- the world,” said Capt(N) Taylor. “By focusing on We will even feature a special rock concert with the students at the end of the week!
er,” she said. “We are very happy to see this year’s interoperability with multinational partners, the
REGISTER TODAY!
exercise expand to include multi-domain opera- RCN will be better prepared to respond to regional Visit us online for more information on this camp
tions integrating land, maritime, air and special security situations, if required.” or any of our other PSP Summer Camps!
operations forces elements as a joint force. The It is important to note that the CAF has tak- https://www.cafconnection.ca/Halifax/In-My-Community/
capacity and strong relationships built during Ex en measures to mitigate the risk of Covid-19 for Community-Recreation/Summer-Training-Camps-en.aspx
SEA BREEZE 21 will directly contribute to Black participating members. In fact, all CAF personnel
Sea regional security, safety and stability. We be- deployed in support of Exercise SEA BREEZE 21
lieve that Ukraine’s security is our security and we have been inoculated with the Health Canada-ap-
remain a steadfast friend and ally to the Security proved Moderna COVID-19 vaccine. They have also CAFCONNECTION.CA/HALIFAX /PSPHALIFAX
Forces of Ukraine.” undergone Covid testing prior to departure as a
8 TRIDENT NEWS JULY 12, 2021
Members of HMCS Calgary stand together after collecting garbage from the beaches of Diego Garcia on June 20, 2021 in British Indian Ocean Territory during Operation
PROJECTION.
CPL LYNETTE AI DANG
HMCS Calgary helps protect the environment
during visit to Diego Garcia
By Capt Jeffery Klassen,
HMCS Calgary
After five months of being in a Facility Diego Garcia. “For marine and American partners for providing Operation ARTEMIS, HMCS Calgary
COVID-free social bubble, the officers turtle eggs, incubation temperature is us the opportunity to take a much worked under Combined Maritime
and crew of Her Majesty’s Canadian destiny. Sea turtles have temperature needed rest in Diego Garcia. The fact Forces which is currently under the
Ship (HMCS) Calgary finally got a dependent sex determination, which that we were also able to contribute to command of Vice Admiral (VAdm)
‘real’ port visit when they visited the means their sex is determined by the maintaining the island’s natural beau- Brad Cooper, Commander of United
small British Indian Ocean Territory sand temperature. Changes in incu- ty is just an amazing bonus for us,” States Fifth Fleet and United States
island of Diego Garcia, home to United bation temperatures can modify the said HMCS Calgary’s Commanding Naval Forces Central Command.
States Navy Naval Support Facility sex ratios produced on these nesting Officer, Commander Mark O’Dono- During HMCS Calgary’s mid-deploy-
Diego Garcia. It was a time to relax, beaches.” hue. ment break, VAdm Cooper visited the
interact with crewmates and others In an activity organized by HMCS The United States Navy has been ship and congratulated HMCS Calgary
off ship, and, for a good portion of the Calgary’s embarked chaplain Lieu- a great partner to HMCS Calgary on their recent operational success-
ship’s company, an opportunity to tenant (Navy) Wilson Gonese and throughout its Operation ARTEMIS es which also included making the
help the British Forces and United LCdr Quay, on their second day off mission, providing fuel-at-sea on sev- largest heroin seizure and making the
States Navy protect the environment. ship, 31 members of the ship got up eral occasions, and the ship conducted most successful interdictions by any
The crew of HMCS Calgary had at the break of dawn, drove out to maneuvering exercises with United single ship on a single rotation of the
some visits to foreign countries the island’s ‘Oceanside R-site Beach’, States Ship Vella Gulf. While on operation in CMF history.
throughout their deployment but due and cleared washed up debris from a
to the COVID-19 pandemic, visits were one-kilometre stretch. They gathered
mostly considered ‘technical visits’ around 80 bags of trash with a total
and the ship’s company could never weight of 640 lbs.
leave further than an isolated area on “We are very grateful for the sacri-
the jetty. After finishing their recent fice and hard work of the 30-plus crew
counter-terrorism drug interdiction of HMCS Calgary that gave up several
mission, Operation ARTEMIS, the hours of a very short liberty call on
stop in Diego Garcia provided some a tropical island to help beautify our
well-deserved liberty. beaches, and more importantly, to
Diego Garcia is an isolated atoll, significantly help our sea turtle popu-
rarely visited by outsiders and known lation,” said LCdr Quay.
for its natural beauty that includes The island of Diego Garcia provided
fine white sanded beaches, sea turtles, a great rest for the ship’s company
coconut crabs, and a diverse and vi- after completing a very successful
brant sea life surrounding it. Howev- Operation ARTEMIS where the ship
er, plastic from the vast ocean ends set the record for the most successful
up on its shores, builds up, and can interdictions by any ship on a single
create problems in the local sea turtle rotation in the history of the opera-
population. HMCS Calgary’s crew tion. The ship is now on Operation
stepped in to help clean up. PROJECTION and their next major
“The plastic breaks down into activity will be participation in Ex-
microplastics in the sand where sea ercise TALISMAN SABRE, a major
turtles tend to nest,” said Lieutenant biennial international exercise off the
Commander (LCdr) John Quay, coast of Australia. Members of HMCS Calgary partake in cleaning garbage on a stretch of Diego Garcia’s
Command Chaplain for Naval Support “We are very thankful to our British beaches.
CPL LYNETTE AI DANG
TRIDENT NEWS JULY 12, 2021 9
Captain Heather Constantine, the current Deputy Wing Administration Officer for 12 Wing Shearwater,
received the 2020 CAF Logistician of the Year (Junior Officer) award on June 7.
JACLYN BUELL, 12 WING IMAGING
CPO1 Kent Gregory
SUBMITTED
12 Wing Logistician wins
Face of Base: national CAF award
Outgoing Base Chief
By Joanie Veitch,
Trident Staff
CPO1 Kent Gregory
On June 7th, Captain Heather Constantine, the Liaison Officer LCdr Nicole Dugas, and work-
current Deputy Wing Administration Officer for ing with Canadian Joint Operations Command
12 Wing Shearwater, was named the 2020 Logisti- (CJOC), to managing on site at 12 Wing Shear-
By CFB Halifax Public Affairs cian of the Year (Junior Officer) for the Canadian water, and, of course, supporting the grieving
Armed Forces in a virtual ceremony put on by families through Designated Assistants assigned
the Royal Canadian Logistics Service (RCLS). to each family group.
We are thrilled to feature our newest Face of Base Hali-
Recognized for her steadfast leadership and “Casualty management is difficult under the
fax, CPO1 Thomas Kent Gregory, who – up until last week
human resource management excellence, the best of circumstances, but in a COVID environ-
– was the Base Chief Petty Officer at CFB Halifax! Born in
RCLS noted that Capt Constantine “embodies ment, it is magnified to an extreme. It was a
Ontario and raised in both Ontario and British Columbia,
all the qualities of an outstanding RCLS officer difficult time. Those were very full days.”
CPO1 Gregory grew up in a military family, which would
— professionalism, dedication, innovation and Her own family saw very little of her in the
greatly influence his career path.
leadership.” days that followed the crash, leading up to the
Even at the young age of 13, he knew he wanted to pursue
Capt Constantine, who joined the military as a repatriation ceremony at 8 Wing, Trenton on May
a military career. This dream came true when he enrolled
reservist in 1995 and transferred into the Regular 6. Capt Constantine gave credit to her two daugh-
in the CAF in 1985, inspired by his grandfather who en-
Force in 2016, said she was surprised and hum- ters for their support and understanding.
rolled during the First World War in the Canadian Mount-
bled to receive the honour. “It’s still sinking in, “They knew and accepted that Mom was going
ed Rifles. Throughout his illustrious 37-year career, CPO1
really,” Capt Constantine said. “I’ve worked with to be away from home… It was a hard time but
Gregory has worked as a Finance Clerk, a Resource Man-
some amazing Log Os out there who do fantastic I knew we just had to take it step by step and all
agement Support Clerk, Financial Services Administrator
work, so to be recognized amongst my peers, it’s work together.”
and currently, as Base Chief. In his latest role, he advises
humbling.” The next challenge arrived with the tragedy on
the Base Commander on all matters pertaining to non-com-
In the notice of her award, RCLS highlighted May 17th, when a Snowbirds aircraft taking part
missioned members, operates as the Base’s chief discipli-
Capt Constantine’s work in coordinating casualty in Operation Inspiration, crashed in Kamloops,
narian, and is responsible for the morale and welfare of all
administration and support activities follow- BC, killing Captain Jennifer Casey, the Public
Defence Team members at CFB Halifax. As Base Chief, he
ing the Stalker-22 crash that killed six military Affairs Officer from 431 (Air Demonstration)
is most proud of supporting the “Respect in the CAF” cours-
members off the coast of Greece last year, and the Squadron of 15 Wing, Moose Jaw.
es, standing up CFB Halifax’s local LGBTQ2+ advocacy
tragic Snowbird crash in Kamloops, BC less than Hard lessons learned in the weeks before
group and assisting in the development of meaningful poli-
a month later. helped Capt Constantine as she took a lead role in
cy, as well as becoming a role model to younger LGBTQ2+
Capt Constantine was posted to 12 Wing’s 406 coordinating plans for the homecoming ceremo-
members whom he hopes feel inspired and empowered to
Maritime (M) Operational Training Squadron in ny in Capt Casey’s honour.
achieve the most senior leadership levels within the CAF,
January 2018, before taking on the Lead Adminis- “Having that experience with Stalker 22,
as he has.
trative Officer position for 12 Wing in December showed that — in the midst of chaos — having a
Prior to leaving his role as Base Chief, CPO1 Gregory was
2019. She said she remembers the day on April 29, clear plan to follow would help get us through it.
humbled to share a few thoughts with us: “It is important to
2020 when word came in that a CH-148 Cyclone Our goal was to be able to provide for the family
remember that our institution is not the organization of the
had crashed in the Ionian Sea. the best ceremony and service we could, and to
past: we have come far in terms of embracing diversity and
“I got a call that afternoon and that evening I have it be as respectful as possible.”
inclusion, and focusing on the many talents of our diverse
was at the squadron coordinating the casualty ad- Capt Constantine’s work during those chal-
Defence members. Yet we know that more needs to be done
ministration and management portion. It was the lenging days and weeks was exemplary, but
to better our organization. I hope members put trust in
largest mass casualty event in the Royal Canadi- beyond that,, the award nomination and win
themselves and try to change the space they have influence
an Air Force in recent history,” she said. “My job reflects the day-to-day work ethic and profession-
in, as a way of rooting out inappropriate behaviour and
became coordinating all of the pieces.” alism she’s shown since starting with 12 Wing
ensuring that meaningful culture change occurs.”
Although she had previous experience coordi- in 2018, said Lieutenant-Colonel William Reyno,
A few fun facts about CPO1 Gregory? Not only is he a
nating a casualty event as a Designated Assistant, Commanding Officer at 12 Wing Headquarters
huge Trekkie and a Licensed Lay Minister in the Anglican
the scale of the tragedy, coupled with COVID-19 “She stood out at 406 Squadron and was hand-
Church working toward his ordination (a second career),
restrictions, made the situation especially hard. picked to take on the Acting Wing Administra-
he also plays the bagpipes!
Coordinating all of the pieces, as Capt Constan- tion Officer role,” said LCol Reyno. “She’s a go-to
Thank you, Chief, for everything that you have done for
tine put it, meant following up on many details person on the Wing for her leadership...and stood
the Base, for your insight and unwavering leadership! We
— large and small — from liaising with the Royal head and shoulders above other great candidates
wish you the best of luck for your next adventure, and com-
Canadian Navy’s Atlantic Fleet, through their in winning this award.”
mend you for your dedicated service to Canada!
10 TRIDENT NEWS JULY 12, 2021
Sports & Fitness
Navy 10K Virtual Series keeping
runners motivated
By Joanie Veitch,
Trident Staff
After winning the team health too. Whether walking out and get them active.”
competition in last year’s or running, being outside in No one has to motivate
Navy 10K Run Virtual Se- nature is good for us,” she Emily Hamilton to get out and
ries, when this year’s run said. run. An elite runner, she was
was announced as an online Although the chaplain’s last year’s top female runner
challenge, Cdr Jennifer Gosse team doesn’t have a specific in the Navy 10K virtual run
knew her Base chaplains distance goal for this year’s and has won previous, in-per-
would put a team together to virtual series, Cdr Gosse said son iterations of the Navy 10K
contend for the winning title she had set a personal goal to road race, along with many
again. aim for 10 kilometres a day, other races since moving to
“Winning the team chal- through a combination of the region in 2006.
lenge last year, I thought walking and running. Given A former radar technician
‘well, there’s a first for every- that she’s moving to Ottawa with the Royal Canadian
thing’,” she laughed. “Chap- in mid July to take up a new Navy, Hamilton has just
lains aren’t really known as position that might prove a completed a four-year radio-
being the most athletic people challenge, she said, adding logical technology program at
in the military. We try our that “having a goal helps to Dalhousie University’s School
best but we’re generally older stay motivated.” of Health Sciences, where she
than most of the members The chaplains are doing also competed as part of the
that we serve, so for the chap- well again so far this year, university’s varsity team.
lains to win a sporting event? said Kevin Miller, Navy 10K Running competitively
That was definitely a first, I race director with Person- since she was nine years old,
would think.” nel Support Programs (PSP) Hamilton averages about 450
Due to ongoing COVID-19 Halifax. “They won with their kilometre a month, doing a
restrictions, the 2021 Navy total kilometres last year and mix of long runs and speed
10K Run is being held as a they already got more than workouts.
virtual event again this year. 1,100 kilometres between “Running has always been
With free registration and them in the first month. The something I love. It gives me
open to everyone, the 2021 chaplains are busy running better focus and makes me The Base chaplains won a team challenge during last year’s
Navy 10K Run Virtual Se- and walking, and posting. It’s feel free,” Hamilton said. Navy 10K Virtual Series, and have already logged more than
ries started June 1 and goes great to see.” For rules and details on 1,100 kilometres for the 2021 event.
through to August 24. As with last year’s online how to register as a team SUBMITTED
Registration remains open series, the virtual running or individual runner visit:
and people can sign up any event offers both individual https://raceroster.com/
time. and team categories. Partic- events/2021/48304/na-
For Cdr Gosse, a longtime ipants can either post their vy-10k-run-virtual-series.
runner who has taken part personal best times for a set
in many past Navy 10K runs, distance — 800m, 1,500m,
putting together a team last 2,500m, 5K or 10K — or track Emily Hamilton is an elite
year for the online version of their total kilometres over runner and former RCN
the run seemed a good way the entire series, Miller ex- member who has won
for the chaplains — a unit plained. previous in-person Navy
that is typically spread out “You can participate as 10K races. Pictured running
and doesn’t get much oppor- much or as little as you in a full marathon event,
tunity to work together — to want. You can register as an she was the top female
have some fun and stay fit individual and be part of a runner in the 2020 Navy 10K
through the pandemic. team as well. You can do all virtual run and is taking
“Being outdoors helps the events or just do one set part in the online version
your mental health as well distance, one time. It’s really again this year.
as your physical health. For up to the individual,” he said. SUBMITTED
me, it helps with my spiritual “The goal is just to get peopleTRIDENT NEWS JULY 12, 2021 11
MacDonald Beach reopens for summer
By Joanie Veitch,
Trident Staff
MacDonald Beach is open again, but unlike in Shearwater. to offer a swimming program, if there is sufficient
previous years, the popular beach facility is now Open Wednesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to demand and the facility has enough staff to accom-
open to military members, veterans and NPF/DND 5 p.m., until August 27, there are kayaks and stand modate.
personnel only. up paddle boards available for use, as well as equip- The decision not to allow civilians is different
The beach, which is located off Caldwell Rd. in ment to play horseshoes, beach volleyball, ring toss from past years but is in keeping with the rules in
Shearwater, reopened on June 30 for the first time and a soccer area. place at both the Shearwater Recreation Centre and
since 2019, as it was closed last summer due to “There is a lot of space available, the beach and the Dockyard Gym.
COVID-19 pandemic restrictions. area is big enough to allow for two-metre distancing Although it’s not “business as usual” it’s great to
“It’s such a morale booster for everyone to have to keep everyone safe,” Blanchard said. be back at the beach again, Blanchard added.
it open again, to be able to offer this to the military Lifeguards will be at the beach during open hours. “It’s the little things that count. Just being open
members after being closed for so long,” said Ashley At present there are no swimming lessons sched- again, it feels good. I’m so glad we can offer this
Blanchard, PSP Aquatics Coordinator at 12 Wing uled but Blanchard said she would like to be able again to our military members.”
Ryder Cup-style event set for July 19-20
Hartlen Point Golf Club
By Joanie Veitch,
Trident Staff
Drawing inspiration from the biennial Ryder Cup coordinator of the event for PSP Halifax. “Unlike where each player on the team hits a tee shot, and
golf competition between Europe and the United most sports though, golf allows for easy physical then the players decide which shot they like better,
States, PSP Halifax has planned a mini-version, distancing so we figured this would work.” Habib explained. “Once the spot is selected, both
with teams drawn from both sides of the harbour Last year PSP ran a similar format event and the players then play a shot from that spot, and again
— CFB Halifax and 12 Wing Shearwater — for a fun Halifax side won, Habib said. pick which one they like better.”
and friendly competition. Scheduled for July 19 and 20 at Hartlen Point Although registration numbers are low, Habib
While PSP Halifax usually runs an annual tour- Golf Club, the two-day event will see a best ball said he’s happy to be planning a live event again.
nament with teams from around the region — Gag- format (known as fourball in the actual Ryder Cup) “The goal is just to get people out and have some
etown, 14 Wing Greenwood, CFB Halifax, 9 Wing with two-person teams on the first day, as well as a fun.”
Gander and 12 Wing Shearwater — with changing singles match being played simultaneously, and a And, of course, bragging rights for whichever side
COVID-19 pandemic restrictions earlier in the year, two-person scramble on the second day. wins.
it was hard to know what to plan, said Isaac Habib, Scramble format involves two-person teams,
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Promotional Opportunities with CFB Halifax please contact:
Missy Sonier at 902-721-6504 (Missy.Sonier@forces.gc.ca) or
Peter McNeil at 902-721-8553 (Peter.McNeil@forces.gc.ca)
PSP Halifax is planning its second annual Ryder Cup-style golf event with teams from CFB
Halifax and 12 Wing Shearwater competing for bragging rights. Pictured above are players CAFCONNECTION.CA/HALIFAX /PSPHALIFAX
who took part in the 2020 event, in which the Halifax team won.
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