Staying protected at sea - Trident Newspaper
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Monday May 17, 2021 Volume 55, Issue 10
www.tridentnewspaper.com
Staying protected at sea
The CAF COVID-19 vaccination program
is in full swing. Many members across
Formation Halifax have already received
their initial vaccine dose, and sailors
from HMCS Halifax recently rolled up
their sleeves for an onboard vaccine clinic
at sea. The ship is currently deployed to
Operation REASSURANCE alongside
NATO partners. Every CAF member has
the opportunity to receive the COVID-19
vaccine, regardless of geographic location.
S1 BRYAN UNDERWOOD, CAF PHOTO
2 TRIDENT NEWS MAY 17, 2021
From left, Cdr Michelle Tessier, Cmdre Richard Feltham, and Cdr Nicole Robichaud sign documents marking
the Change of Command for the future HMCS Margaret Brooke on April 30.
FORMATION IMAGING SERVICES
New commanding officer for future
HMCS Margaret Brooke
By Joanie Veitch,
Trident Staff
Cdr Nicole Robichaud assumed com- chaud said, directing her remarks to “Through the past couple of years Clark said becoming Coxswain of a ship
mand of the future HMCS Margaret Cdr Tessier. “I will continue to forge as Margaret Brooke’s team has come has been a goal since he was a young
Brooke on April 30, in a virtual Change ahead and build on the culture that together, you have been integral to our sailor and first joined the Navy, noting
of Command ceremony presided over you have created within the Margaret success in preparing for the delivery that he always looked up to his Navy
by Cmdre Richard Feltham, Command- Brooke, one of inclusivity, of positive of the second AOPS, sharing lessons father, also CPO1 Clark or “Knobby
er Canadian Fleet Atlantic. space, of welcoming arms and a place learned, providing tours and training Senior” who was Coxswain of HMCS
Cdr Robichaud, who is originally where people are happy and want to and taking our sailors to sea to learn Athabaskan before he retired.
from Red Deer, Alberta, was Command- come into work.” the platform. Thank you so much.” Although the future HMCS Marga-
ing Officer of HMCS Moncton in 2016 In her farewell address, Cdr Tessier Cdr Tessier also received a Gold ret Brooke and her crew have faced
and Executive Officer with HMCS Fred- said she will watch the launch of the Service Insignia from Cmdre Feltham setbacks that have caused delays to
ericton from 2018 to 2020. She takes over future HMCS Margaret Brooke “with a at the ceremony, in honour of the more the ship’s schedule over the past few
leadership from Cdr Michele Tessier, little jealousy and a ton of joy”, adding than 1,460 days she has spent at sea years — including the ongoing Covid
who grew up in Grand Bank, New- that Cdr Robichaud is “exactly what during her 25-year career in the Navy. pandemic — CPO1 Clark said his words
foundland and Labrador, and was given this team needs and I know I am leav- In an earlier ceremony — held before of advice to the crew is to continue to
command of the future Arctic and ing them in good hands.” the latest round of restrictions were respect one another and to always take
Offshore Patrol Ship (AOPS) in 2017. Cdr Tessier also thanked the ship’s put in place in the province, with a positive view.
Cdr Tessier is retiring from the Royal company of HMCS Harry DeWolf, the limited in-person and livestreamed “You can look for negatives, but
Canadian Navy. first of the AOPS to launch, for welcom- online — CPO1 Steve Clark took over why?” he said. “Don’t sweat the stuff
“It is quite unfortunate that you are ing her to their shore office when she the Coxswain position for the future you can’t control.”
not able to be the first Commanding first arrived in Halifax in 2018, where HMCS Margaret Brooke from outgoing
Officer to take Margaret Brooke to sea she joked that she assumed “squatter’s CPO1 Yves Dumont, who retired from
after the four years you have dedicated rights” while she tried to figure out the Navy in January.
to both the ship and crew,” Cdr Robi- what “the Pink Palace”meant. In his address to the audience, CPO1
Weekend parking
CFB Halifax has implemented a flexibility and reduce dependency on
weekend parking posture until further public transportation for everyone. Our
notice. This means that all members of base team is working to ensure we can
the local defence team – whether or not maximize parking availability to as
posture at
they have a parking pass – are permit- many employees as possible for as long
ted to use General Parking Areas on as we can, which we acknowledge is an
Base. Parking within the HMC Dock- important step in responsible business
yard Controlled Access Area will still resumption.
be enforced, and reserved/accessible *The Parking Control Office at S90
CFB Halifax
parking spaces may only be used by in- is currently closed. For emergencies
dividuals who possess a relevant pass. or if returning a Parking Pass, please
This Weekend Parking Posture is report to the Dockyard Security Office,
being implemented not only to recog- Bldg D247. If the office is closed, please
By CFB Halifax Public Affairs, nize the limited numbers working on utilize the Drop Off Box outside the
the Base, but also to offer increased Security Office.
TRIDENT NEWS MAY 17, 2021 3
A very different Ramadan
Muslim sailors observe a month of fasting while on
deployment with HMCS Halifax
By Joanie Veitch,
Trident Staff
If he’s not already on duty, Sailor and break the fast together as the sun fighting temptations. Just focusing and them dinner to eat when the sun sets
Second Class Yunus Kurt gets up every sets, that practice has ‘gone online’ for reminding myself helps me out through and they can break their fast.
day, an hour before sunrise, to have many Muslims around the world this the day.” “I give big thanks to the cooks,” S3
something to eat before beginning his year due to COVID-19 restrictions. During Ramadan, S3 Bitar also likes Bitar added.
daily fast — it will be about 16 hours be- Using available technology to talk to take time to reflect on how he can be The end of Ramadan, which falls on
fore he will eat or drink anything again. with family and friends from home and of service to others. “Doing good deeds, May 12 this year, is celebrated world-
During the month of Ramadan — the read their messages of support has they could be little things or big things, wide with the festival of Eid al-Fitr.
most sacred time in the Islamic calen- been a huge help, said S2 Kurt. but I try my best to help people,” he Although the two sailors don’t know
dar — Muslims around the world fast “Fasting on Ramadan while at sea said. “It makes you feel better...and it for certain how they’ll mark the event,
during daylight hours. For S2 Kurt, has been harder than I thought, when makes their day easier.” they plan to spend the time together,
along with S3 Ahmad Bitar, both Naval you don’t have a home to come back to. For S2 Kurt, Ramadan is a time to along with another Muslim sailor
Communicators on deployment with That is one of the biggest challenges deepen his faith, noting that he has observing Ramadan onboard HMCS
HMCS Halifax, this is a most unusual while sailing,” he said. “It is very diffi- enjoyed talking with colleagues and Halifax.
Ramadan. Their ship left HMC Dock- cult being away from my community, supervisors who’ve shown interest in “I don’t know where we will be, but
yard in Halifax on January 1, headed however I’ve become used to it since learning about his faith and the impor- probably somewhere in the middle of
for Europe and a six-month deployment joining the military, due to the amount tance of Ramadan to Muslims. the ocean,” said S2 Kurt.
to Operation REASSURANCE along- of moving I’ve had to do.” Both sailors said that despite the “We’ll celebrate by hugging each
side NATO allies. hardships of fasting while at sea, they other and hopefully breaking our fast
have felt supported by their shipmates – together.”
especially the kitchen staff – for saving
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S3 Ahmad Bitar and S2 Yunus Kurt are both observing Ramadan at sea while on
deployment with HMCS Halifax.
S1 BRYAN UNDERWOOD
“This is my first deployment and Although evenings after sundown
also the first time where I fasted during during Ramadan are usually social, for
Ramadan while in the middle of the Muslims it is also a time to slow down
ocean,” said S2 Kurt, who is from Lon- and take extra time for spiritual reflec-
don, Ont and joined the Navy in 2018 tion beyond their daily prayers — not
“to see the world.” easy to do while on a warship.
When Ramadan began on April 12, “It is hard to slow down in a
both S2 Kurt and S3 Bitar called their high-tempo program, but it adds an
families to wish them well, and have extra sense of accomplishment when
continued to stay in touch using Face- you finish that day,” said S3 Bitar, who
Time and other messaging apps. While is from Halifax, NS and joined the RCN
Ramadan usually sees families and straight out of high school in 2018. “It is
friends gather to share the Iftar meal difficult, but that is the whole purpose: SISIP.COM
4 TRIDENT NEWS MAY 17, 2021
www.tridentnewspaper.com
Editor: Ryan Melanson
ryan.melanson@psphalifax.ca
(902) 427-4235
Reporter: Joanie Veitch
joanie.veitch@psphalifax.ca
(902) 427-4238
Editorial Advisor: Margaret Conway
margaret.conway@forces.gc.ca
902-721-0560
Editorial Advisor: Ariane Guay-Jadah
Ariane.Guay-Jadah@forces.gc.ca
902-721-8341
www.tridentnewspaper.com
Trident is an authorized military publication distributed
across Canada and throughout the world every second
Monday, and is published with the permission of Rear
Admiral Brian Santarpia, Commander, Joint Task Force
Atlantic. The Editor reserves the right to edit, condense
or reject copy, photographs or advertising to achieve the
aims of a service newspaper as defined by the Interim Members of HMCS Calgary stand with 1286kg of heroin seized from a dhow during a counter-smuggling operation on 23 April in the
Canadian Forces Newspapers Policy dated April 11,
2005. Deadline for copy and advertising is 10 a.m., 11 Arabian Sea during OPERATION ARTEMIS and as part of Combined Task Force 150.
business days prior to the publication date. Material must CPL LYNETTE AI DANG
be accompanied by the contributor’s name, address and
Royal Canadian Navy sets CMF record
phone number. Opinions and advertisements printed
in Trident are those of the individual contributor or
advertiser and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or
endorsements of the DND, the Editor or the Publisher.
with major back-to-back drug busts
Le Trident est une publication militaire autorisée par le
contre-amiral Brian Santarpia, Commandant la force
opérationnelle interarmées de l‘Atlantique, qui est
distribuée partout au Canada et outremer les lundis
toutes les quinzaines. Le rédacteur en chef se réserve
le droit de modifier, de condenser ou de rejeter les By Combined Maritime Forces,
articles, photographies ou annonces publicitaires
jugées contraires aux objectifs d’un journal militaire
selon la définition donnée à politique temporaire des HMCS Calgary has made the largest and to know we are contributing to the Air Force patrol aircraft.
journaux des forces canadiennes. L’heure de tombée des
annonces publi- citaires ou des articles est fixée à 1000 heroin bust in Combined Maritime interruption of a revenue stream that is “An excellent job by our Canadian
le jeudi précédant la semaine de publication. Les textes Forces history, operating under the being used to fund terrorism.” partners, conducting these successful
peuvent être soumis en français ou en anglais; ils doivent
indiquer le nom, l’adresse et le numéro de téléphone du command of the Canadian-led Com- Whilst operating off the coast of interdictions in such rapid succes-
collaborateur. Les opinions et les annonces publicitaires bined Task Force (CTF) 150. Oman, the RCN frigate intercepted two sion. As a multinational organization,
imprimées par le Trident sont celles des collaborateurs et
agents publicitaires et non nécessairement celles de la Naval Boarding Party members vessels suspected of smuggling. The our agility is such that we are able to
rédaction, du MDN ou de l’éditeur. aboard HMCS Calgary are seen during ship’s boarding team conducted sub- maintain a constant watch on illicit
Annual Subscription (25 issues): a boarding operation to counter drug sequent searches, uncovering the high actors, using ships from many different
• NS: $37.38 ($32.50 + 15 % HST)
• ON, NB & NFLD: $36.73 ($32.50 + 13% HST)
smuggling on April 23 in the Arabian value contraband with a combined total navies,” said Deputy Commander of
• BC: $36.40 ($32.50 + 12% HST) Sea during Operation ARTEMIS. worth of over $23.22 million, making a CMF, Commodore Ed Ahlgren of the
• Remainder of Canada:
$34.13 ($32.50 + GST) The record-setting haul of 2,835 lbs salient impact to drug trafficking, often Royal Navy.
• United States: $45 US (1,286 kg) of heroin on 23 April was used to finance terrorism in the region. “I could not be more pleased with
• Abroad: $65 US
achieved seven years to the day since These interdictions come less than ten HMCS Calgary’s recent success at
Courier address:
2740 Barrington Street, HMAS Darwin interdicted 2,275 lbs days after Calgary began operations in sea. Through diligent preparation and
Halifax, N.S. (1,032kg) of the drug in 2014. In addition the region, increasing the total number focused pre-deployment training the
B3K 5X5
to their record-breaking success, Cal- of successful counter-narcotics opera- Calgary team arrived in theater in a
Publication Mail Agreement No.
40023785 gary struck again less than 24 hours lat- tions under CTF-150 to 14 since the RCN position to immediately contribute to
Return undelivered Canadian address to: er with a second interdiction capturing took command of the task force on 27 Maritime Security in a meaningful
Trident Newspaper Bldg. S-93 794 lbs (360 kg) of methamphetamine. January. way,” said Commander of CTF-150,
PO Box 99000
Station Forces, Halifax, NS B3K 5X5 “I’m speaking for everyone on HMCS Calgary arrived in the CMF area of Commodore Daniel Charlebois of the
Return Postage Guaranteed Calgary when I say it’s a great feeling operations as a part of Canada’s Opera- Royal Canadian Navy. “Less than ten
ISN 0025-3413
to have made two substantial busts so tion ARTEMIS on April 15. ARTEMIS is days after arriving in the CTF-150 area
Circulation: Minimum 8,500
early into our operation,” said the Com- the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) mis- of operations, they have already made 2
manding Officer of Calgary, Command- sion to help stop terrorism and make substantial seizures of illicit narcotics,
er Mark O’Donohue. “A lot of work and Middle Eastern waters more secure. In disrupting the illegal flow of drugs des-
coordination at both the ship level, and 2021, CAF contributions to Operation tined for our communities, and whose
throughout Combined Task Force-150, ARTEMIS include commanding and proceeds finance criminal and terrorist
and the CMF coalition goes into our operating CTF-150, naval support from organizations and their activities.”
work. It’s fantastic to see that pay off HMCS Calgary and a Royal Canadian
Exercise JOINT WARRIOR
21-2 underway
Exercise JOINT WARRIOR 21-2 began on May 8 off the coast of Scotland, with
SNMG1 ships and aircraft, including HMCS Halifax and its embarked CH-148
Cyclone helicopter, participating in realistic multi-threat scenarios at sea.
S1 BRYAN UNDERWOOD, CAF PHOTO
TRIDENT NEWS MAY 17, 2021 5
How organ donation and
RCN support is helping
a grieving family
By Joanie Veitch, Chris Williams was a member of the Royal Canadian Navy for
Trident Staff more than 18 years; he died August 1, 2019.
SUBMITTED
When Chris Williams died following “He was so proud of that. We had before leaving the RCN in 2017. In the days following Williams’ acci-
a catastrophic car crash near his home talked about it at different times so CPO2 Joe Dickie remembers when dent, CPO2 Dickie was also in contact
in West Chezzetcook on July 25, 2019, I knew that’s what he would have he first met “Willy” as he was known with Taker and put out a call to other
his family took comfort in knowing his wanted,” she says. “He had such a big to most people, back in 2005 when they RCN members to help support the fam-
organs would go on to save other lives. personality, he always wanted to give. were both young sailors. “He was a ily, stocking the fridge and gathering a
Williams, who served in the Royal That’s just who he was.” good guy; he was the type of person work crew of more than a dozen people
Canadian Navy for more than 18 years, Williams was just 40 years old when that if you were with him, you were to clean up around the house, paint
died in hospital on August 1, 2019, after he died, leaving Taker to raise their smiling.” and do repairs — even taking on major
a harrowing week of fading hope for three young children on her own: S1 Kaelen Michaud was posted to jobs, such as building a mantle atop
his family. The trauma he’d suffered in Elizabeth, Vincent and Sophia. Sophia, HMCS Montreal with Williams in 2014. the fireplace so there would be a place
the accident, most notably to his brain, who was only five months old at the She was young — just 19 years old at to display photos and William’s RCN
left no further medical options. When time of his accident, is now two and the time — and remembers Williams shadow box with his medals.
the health care team gave the devas- likes to carry around a large photo of helping to show her the ropes. They be- “Given this specific situation… I
tating news to his spouse and parents, her dad sleeping with her cradled in came good friends and, over the years, determined that the standard bouquet
followed by a discussion about organ the crook of his arm. she got to know Taker and the children of flowers was much too far from what
donation, they didn’t hesitate. “We talk about him all the time, I as well. was required and, therefore, decided
When Taker called her from the to go all in with a team of shipmates to
hospital the morning after the acci- get Donna and her little ones the boost
dent, S1 Michaud went to the hospital they needed,” he says.
right away to support her friend in any Like S1 Michaud, he’s stayed in
way she could. She’s still doing that, contact, bringing gifts for the children
checking in most days by FaceTime or each year at Christmas and on their
Messenger text, just to see how she is. birthdays.
Donna Taker, wife of Chris Williams, with their three children — left to right: Sophia,
Vincent and Elizabeth — in front of the mantle that Williams’ RCN friends built for
the family.
JOANIE VEITCH, TRIDENT STAFF
“I signed the papers immediately,” want the kids to know their dad and
says Donna Taker, Williams’ wife. feel him here with us still,” says Taker. Donna Taker looks at photos of Chris Williams in his RCN uniform, with two-year-old
“It was severe brain damage, I knew Like Sophia, Elizabeth and Vincent, Sophia looking on.
it and knew there was nothing more now eight and seven years old respec- JOANIE VEITCH, TRIDENT STAFF
they could do...but we could do this. He tively, also like looking at pictures of
could save other lives.” their dad, especially the ones of him Last August, on the one-year anni- Although there’s no standard code
Taker knew it’s what Williams would wearing his naval uniform, taken in versary of Williams’ death, S1 Michaud of practice, RCN members tend to look
have wanted because they’d talked their home some years back. organized a ‘celebration of life’ gath- out for one another, and their families,
about it several times, most recently “I miss him a lot. I wish I could put ering at Taker’s house, bringing her in challenging times.
less than a year before he died, after my head on his chest and just hear his big white tablecloth and making large “As sailors, we get thrown together
they went to get him a new health heartbeat,” says Elizabeth. trays of food. and spend every waking and sleeping
card. Smiling as she looks at one of the “Willy was one of the good ones” “What she’s been through and the hour together… you really get to know
many pictures of Williams on display During his time in the Navy, Wil- situation she’s in, it’s incredibly hard, each other,” says CPO2 Dickie. “Willy
in their home, Taker recalls how eager liams served on deployments with but she’s doing it and she’s doing a was one of the good ones.”
he was to show her the ‘donor 1’ print- HMC Ships Halifax and Montreal, as good job,” S1 Michaud says. “I want her
ed on his card. well as working on the Stadacona base, to know she’s not alone, and she’s not.”
6 TRIDENT NEWS MAY 17, 2021
Donation supports mental health
programs for military families
By Trident Staff,
This past year has been especially already directly benefited more than Welfare Services that is providing more ily members, helping both parents
challenging for military families coping 500 children and youth, according to access to tailored and timely mental and youth manage their own mental
with the impacts of the COVID-19 glob- a recent press release from Lockheed health resources for children and youth health during stressful or difficult
al pandemic, in addition to their usual Martin Canada. of military families through their local situations.
stressors of relocation and operational “We are grateful to Lockheed Martin centres.” • Creating a peer support network in
separations. Canada for their unwavering support Below is a list of military family pro- the Region of Montreal MFRC for ad-
In recognition of Mental Health of military families in Canada. These grams supported by Lockheed Martin olescent girls from military families,
Week, led by the Canadian Mental new programs and services go a long Canada’s donation in 2020: delivered fully online.
Health Association, Lockheed Martin way in providing vital support for • Extending the delivery of a nation- • Establishing a monthly book-shar-
Canada made a $300,000 donation to children and youth helping to ensure al CAF Kids Crisis Text Line by 4-5 ing program in Esquimalt MFRC in
programs supporting the mental health their resiliency,” said Commodore Sean years, dedicated to ensuring children, collaboration with Dolly Parton’s
of children and youth from military N. Cantelon (Ret’d), CEO of Canadian youth and young adults from military Imagination Library (an internation-
families across Canada. Forces Moral and Welfare Services. families have free access to mental al non-for-profit working to support
By partnering with Canadian Forces COVID-19 is having a significant health and wellbeing support in both enhanced education outcomes for
Morale and Welfare Services (CFMWS), impact on everyone’s wellbeing and English and French. Powered by Kids children).
and local Military Family Resource the past year has underlined the Help Phone, and also supported by • Counselling services through the Cal-
Centres (MFRCs) in British Columbia, importance of access to mental health True Patriot Love Foundation, kids gary MFRC, for children and youth
Alberta, Ontario, Quebec and Nova programs and resources for military can text the keyword CAFKIDS to struggling with complex mental
Scotia, the initiative will provide tangi- families, added Lorraine Ben, Chief 686868 for mental health support. health challenges and tutoring for
ble relief to military families during a Executive, Lockheed Martin Canada. • In Halifax, the MFRC partnered with those with academic difficulties.
very challenging period. “I am incredibly proud of this partner- the Tranquility Online program to
To date, the multi-year funding has ship with Canadian Forces Morale and teach life-long skills to military fam-
Padre’s Corner: Life in lockdown
By Padre Lt(N) Tim Parker,
Base Chaplain
‘They must live alone; they must live human interaction and meaningful have always meant hardships. When and we become quarantined individu-
outside the camp.’ contact. We have the bare necessities the Jews escaped slavery in Egypt and als living the lockdown life.
-Leviticus 13.46 of life, but we do not have a healthy and were on the long march to the Prom- But let us derive some benefit from
Before COVID-19, we lived a very normal range of relationships. We are ised Land, quarantines were imposed this quarantined way of life! There is
full way of life, and now we are strug- very careful about the air we breathe on any individual who contracted lep- a spiritual response to quarantine that
gling to adapt to a more deprived way and the things we touch: people are out- rosy, a dangerous and infectious skin can help us: it is to treat the quaran-
of life. Constant quarantine, isolation of-bounds. It is very hard. disease. Anyone who caught leprosy tine as a fast. A fast is when we give up
and lockdown mean we have lost most Quarantines throughout history was isolated from some necessity of life,
society for 14 usually food, in order
days in order that we might be filled
to prevent the with God. Our quar-
spread. Weekly antine is a kind of fast
medicals de- from normal human
termined when relationships. We can
the sufferer offer to God the suffer-
was no longer ing it causes. Here the
contagious. Abrahamic faiths (Juda-
What is ism, Christianity, Islam)
different about agree: God will not
our quarantine spurn a contrite heart.
is that every Offer your hurt and your
single individ- heart to God. Use isola-
ual – with or tion as a solitude which
without COVID is time for God. And if
– is essentially quarantined from you should encounter a person with
every other individual. It is society COVID-19, remember that God asks us
itself which is in quarantine. to love the leper. Peace be with us.
Where historically the sick individ-
ual was removed from society, now
society itself is removed altogether,
TRIDENT NEWS MAY 17, 2021 7 An expression of recognition for volunteers By Sarah-Jean Mannette, Halifax & Region Military Family Resource Centre Like much of this year, the pandemic current restrictions for public events, has created many challenges. It has the annual cheque presentation did also created opportunities to connect occur. To show the value of volunteer with people in alternative and creative time that is given to both organiza- ways. tions, a mock cheque in the amount of One such opportunity is the annu- $71,743.00 was presented by Acting PSP A cheque for $71,743 was presented by Acting PSP Manager Mike Almond and H&R al event to recognize volunteers who Halifax Manager Mike Almond and MFRC Volunteer Coordinator Jill Clarke to representatives from CFB Halifax, 12 support military members and families H&R MFRC Volunteer Coordinator Jill Wing Shearwater, and 5th Canadian Division. by giving their time to the Halifax & Re- Clarke, to CFB Halifax Base Command- SUBMITTED gion Military Family Resource Centre er Capt (N) Sean Williams, 5th Canadi- 12 Wing Commanding Officer, Col and MFRC events,” he said. (H&R MFRC) and to PSP programs in an Division’s Col Chris Cotton, and 12 James Hawthorne, recognized vol- Shelley Hopkins, Executive Director Halifax/Shearwater. As part of their Wing Shearwater’s LCol Lauri Darras, unteers in his letter to them. “Your of the H&R MFRC, thanked volunteers mission to improve the lives of military CO of 406 Squadron. The cheque signi- support to military members and their for their dedication to supporting mili- families, CANEX funds the Volunteer fies the combined savings for PSP Hal- families is vital to the success of the tary families. “Although you have had Recognition Program (VOREP), which ifax/Shearwater and H&R MFRC from Canadian Armed Forces and I know limited opportunities to volunteer over allows them to recognize the important the over 5,000 hours volunteers gave in that your work is especially appreciated this past year, I must acknowledge that role volunteers play, and typically hosts support of military members and their by the members of 12 Wing.” whenever we did make a request for this event. families over the past year. BGen Roch Pelletier, Commander volunteers, you have all offered to step- Our volunteers are well known at the CAF Bases and Wings acknowledged of 5th Canadian Division, echoed Capt up in support of military families.” H&R MFRC and through PSP, many of the contributions of volunteers, along (N) Williams and Col Hawthorne’s This year, in lieu of hosting an in-per- whom have been volunteering for over with the H&R MFRC and PSP Halifax/ sentiments on the effect volunteers son event, due to COVID-19 guidelines, 15 years. Volunteers are military mem- Shearwater demonstrated in their have had. “Your contribution has left a last month volunteers received a letter bers, family members, and those who thank you letters to all volunteers. positive impact on our military fami- and a CINEPLEX movie code that they have a passion for supporting military In his letter, Capt (N) Williams lies, and would not have been possible can use to watch a ‘new’ premier movie members and their families. referenced the challenging times without your commitment and dedica- from the comfort of their home. It is The volunteer recognition event faced this past year and the impact the tion to our community.” a different way of celebrating their also provides the H&R MFRC and PSP volunteers had. “Hundreds of Defence Almond , on behalf of PSP Halifax, efforts and has been well-received. Halifax/Shearwater the opportunity Team members and their families have encouraged volunteers to reflect on “The H&R MFRC recognizes the gen- to show their gratitude and thanks to volunteered thousands of hours provid- their contributions. “You should be tru- erous support of CANEX for sponsor- the amazing contributions volunteers ing hope and smiles to sailors, soldiers, ly proud of your commitment toward ing this annual Volunteer Recognition make throughout the year. Although aviators and their families just when promoting esprit de corps and partici- Event,” Hopkins added. the event could not be held due to they needed it most,” he wrote. pation in the CAF recreation programs Vote for your favourite youth reporter story By CFMWS, Support the next generation of In late January, a selection Ryan Cane, Editor in Chief and writers. Vote for your favourite committee of CAF Newspaper National Recreation Manager for youth reporter story between editors reviewed applications to PSP. “As a community, we learn now and May 31st and you can select six story ideas with the a lot by listening to stories that set one young person up with a most editorial merit. Originality are meaningful to the next gen- grand prize package, including a and social impact are key consid- eration, and it’s great that CAF $2,500 scholarship. erations. Newspapers offers this opportu- Every fall, Canadian Armed One month later, six finalists nity annually.” Forces (CAF) Newspapers* in- were contacted and given a Now it’s your turn to connect vites young people, 13 to 18-years- deadline to develop their story with these young writers. Read old, from military families idea into an original article. All the top six stories and vote for and Cadets, to enter our Youth stories are featured in a special your favourite for a chance to Reporter Competition. This PLAY e-zine edition, published win a participation prize. Voting year’s competition is sponsored on CAFconnection.ca and in CAF is open until May 31, 2021 (closing by Adobe. newspapers across Canada. at midnight EDT), at CAFconnec- Aspiring reporters are asked to Your vote takes them to the tion.ca/YouthReporter. submit a story idea about some- next level. *CAF Newspapers are man- thing important in their life or “The youth reporter competi- aged by Personnel Support community. CAF Newspapers re- tion gives young people affiliated Programs (PSP), a division of ceived more than 50 applications with the CAF a chance to have Canadian Forces Morale and from CAF-affiliated youth across their voices heard and to devel- Welfare Services (CFMWS). Canada and the world. op their writing acumen,” says **Voting rules apply
8 TRIDENT NEWS MAY 17, 2021
Naval officer trades
cruise ships for warships
By RCN PA,
Lt(N) Joe Cheng was 42 years old vessel; and seeing the Northern Lights
when he joined the Royal Canadian appear over the ship in the evenings.
Navy (RCN). For a naval reservist whose home
While that might be considered a unit is HMCS Discovery in Vancouver,
late career move for some, for Lt(N) it was a long way from home.
Cheng it was a natural progression But Lt(N) Cheng joined the RCN to
from a job he held for eight years as an serve and give back “to this amazing
officer aboard Holland America Line country.”
cruise ships. Along the way he has faced some
“I think this is where my love of the challenges, but was able to overcome
seas came from, having acquired over them by keeping an open mind and a
2,500 sea days with them,” he says. “I positive, can-do attitude.
was also part of the team that brought “As a reservist, one is constantly
out two different first-of-class vessels balancing their civilian employment,
for Holland America Line.” family needs and RCN training and
This experience came in handy readiness needs. Often these demands
when Lt(N) Cheng joined the crew of all peak at the same time and this
the RCN’s newest warship, Her Maj- becomes increasingly difficult with re-
esty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Harry quirements to go on course for several Lt(N) Joe Cheng on the jetty in front of HMCS Harry DeWolf
DeWolf, where he is a bridge watch months at a time.” RCN
keeper. After completing his Maritime Sur- open mind, seeking advice and devel- is a great way to start a career in the
He was one of the first aboard when face/Sub-Surface Operator and Naval oping his own conclusions helped him RCN or Canadian Armed Forces.
Harry DeWolf was handed over to the Warfare Officer courses and qualifi- move forward with confidence. While it’s normal to choose a trade
Navy from shipbuilders in July 2020, cations, he was posted from the West “I feel this is critical when we are prior to enrollment, starting out in
first taking it out on a proficiency Coast to Halifax. bringing out a brand new class of ship the Reserves and completing basic
sail around Newfoundland and then “It was tremendously challenging with new technologies and new ways training is a great way to learn about
proving its ice capabilities near Baffin and daunting to move to a new city, es- of doing things in an ever changing the Navy, the people and roles prior to
Island earlier this year. tablish a brand new life and leave my climate,” Lt(N) Cheng says. fully committing to a trade and further
“The realization of being a part of home, family, girlfriend, dogs and an He says the best part of being in the training, while assessing time commit-
and seeing the fruition of all our work established career behind, along with RCN is the regular challenges every ments and life balance requirements.
was truly majestic,” he says. “It was the network and support of the com- day brings, combined with the people “I have found the sailors and leader-
iconic to see it sail under another Ca- munity I’ve built up over four decades he works with. ship in the Naval Reserve to be excep-
nadian icon of unity and connection, in British Columbia.” He recommends that anyone inter- tionally good and supportive in these
the Confederation Bridge in P.E.I., and He also had to leave his civilian job, ested in joining the Navy, no matter capacities and the individuals are
a bigger highlight to be given the con knowing that it may no longer be there what their age, do some research. motivated to do well and assist each
on the bridge to do so.” for him in the future. Look at the different trades and their other to succeed.”
He adds that highlights on that A second challenge he encountered description carefully, talk to those peo- Lt(N) Cheng plans to stay in the
deployment included watching Harry after joining the RCN was the tre- ple who have done it and have frank, RCN for the foreseeable future “for
DeWolf deftly handled in medium first- mendous learning curve, not only in candid conversations about the job, the simple reason that every day is an
year ice; breaking through and stop- knowledge, but also in culture and lifestyle, compensation and rewards. adventure.”
ping in an ice floe to watch a family of how business is done. But he found He also believes the Naval Reserve
polar bears wander past ahead of the that listening to colleagues with an
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TRIDENT NEWS MAY 17, 2021 9
A member of the ship’s dive team aboard HMCS Winnipeg conducts a diving exercise with the ship’s embarked CH-148 Cyclone in the fall of 2020.
HMCS WINNIPEG, CAF PHOTO
Shared experiences connect Navy ship’s
divers across generations
By Ryan Melanson,
Trident Staff
Training to be a ship’s diver is one inspection and clearance diver roles. a certain amount of adversity that
of the most physically and mentally It suggests that it takes a certain type people have to put up with in order
demanding challenges that a Royal of person to excel in the role, someone to do this job,” LCdr Lockyer said.
Canadian Navy sailor can take on. who finds excitement in plunging into “You need to have a certain amount of
Candidates spend six weeks being the dark depths of the ocean to exam- toughness to you – the environment
pushed to the limits by senior instruc- ine a ship’s hull, make small repairs or you’re dealing with isn’t kind, there’s
tors – this includes intense daily phys- support operations in any number of pressure and there’s cold and darkness
ical training, frequent exposure to new different ways. and other factors.
and uncomfortable scenarios, and the “You need to have grit to get through The shared experiences of pushing
expectation that prospective divers can the course and do the job,” said Bill through difficult training, and the
grasp difficult new skills and concepts Lee, a former RCN member who grad- unique stories that come from diving
in a short period of time. uated from his course back in 1973 on on deployments across the world, help
Yet for LS Jeff Hines, who completed his second attempt, after a shoulder create a camaraderie among current
his ship’s diver course in 2016, those injury forced him to step away from and former ship’s divers. And for those
challenges weren’t enough to keep him his first course three years earlier. who complete the training course
from falling in love with the trade. Lee recalled frantic mornings during together, or serve together as part of a
“It’s probably some of the best his training - being woken and imme- small ship’s diver team, the bonds can A ship’s diver jumps into the water from
training you’re ever going to get in the diately jumping into wetsuit gear for last a lifetime. the Dive Tender Granby, which will be
Navy. It’s the best course I’ve been on, a swim to Shannon Park and back - all Lee, and his friend Moe Muise, an- familiar to those who did their training
hands down,” he said. before the first dive of the day. He also other former RCN diver, met on their in the 1960s to early 1970s.
described diving in Halifax first ship’s diver course 50 years ago, SUBMITTED
Harbour with a blackout and are still connected today. They’re
mask, relying on the diving also part of a newly formed ship’s And for RCN members who haven’t
tender to signal bells and pulls divers group that has so far brought entered the diving world yet, but who
that attached the diver and together 250 current and former divers may be interested in becoming a ship’s
tender with a rope, to locate on Facebook. They share photos and diver, the advice is to embrace the
objects that had been tossed stories, keep up with the latest Navy challenges and difficulties, because the
in. news, and they’ve even worked with payoff is worth it.
Today, the training for ring manufacturer Jostens to develop “It’s not easy, but you build up that
new ship’s divers has been a new Navy Ship’s Divers ring that’s confidence, and then there’s a brother-
slightly modified, with more now available to purchase for all hood that gets built along with that,”
focus on the practical skills those who’ve served in the role. The LS Hines said.
and training needed. But this first rings were ordered in 2019, and Muise echoed those comments.
doesn’t mean diver training are now proudly worn by some of the “It was the best thing I did for my
A member of HMCS Halifax’s dive team gives a has gone soft, explains LCdr group’s founding members. career, I’d do it all over again,” he said.
thumbs up indicating no issues during Operation Neville Lockyer, the current “There’s a special connection be- For more information on the ship’s
REASSURANCE in the Fjords of Norway in Feb- Commanding Officer of Fleet tween all of us, and we’re absolutely divers group and the new ship’s
ruary 2021. Diving Unit (Atlantic). Re- looking to recruit more ship’s div- divers ring, visit “Royal Canadian
S1 BRYAN UNDERWOOD, CAF PHOTO cruits can still expect a very ers, both from the past and from the Navy Ship’s Divers Group” on Face-
difficult and physical course, present, to be a part of our group,” book at https://www.facebook.com/
“You’ll work very hard, but you have though hopefully with fewer injuries Muise said, adding that their colleague groups/405636316825591 and http://
fun while you’re doing it.” or unnecessary burnout. The ratio of former RCN ship’s diver and clearance Jostenscanada.com/RCNSD.HTML
It’s a common sentiment among those who successfully complete the diver Jack Lewis also deserved credit
most who’ve spent time as naval course, compared to those who don’t, for being a diligent moderator and
divers, whether at the ship’s diver also proves it’s no walk in the park. helping to bring the Facebook group
level, or in the more advanced port “There still absolutely has to be together.
10 TRIDENT NEWS MAY 17, 2021
Newly minted ship’s divers graduate at FDU(A)
The latest crop of RCN divers graduated from their six-week Ship’s Diver course at Fleet Diving Unit (Atlantic) recently. Despite the difficulties added by COVID-19 restrictions,
staff at FDU(A) have now completed multiple Ship’s Diver courses, using smaller cohorts, separate meal and shower times, and other steps to reduce potential disease spread. The
six-week course is common to all diving-related occupations/sub-occupations in the Canadian Armed Forces. For information on how to become a Ship’s Team Diver, visit the
FDU(A) page on the Defence Team Intranet and consult with your Chain of Command.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF S2 SAIF MORSY
ROYAL CANADIAN
NAVY SHIP’S DIVER RINGS
RCN Ship’s Diver Ring Testimonials
David Carson - I am very pleased with my Ships Diver ring, I am thrilled with the design and the fit and finish could not be better. I have
attached a photo taken at depth.
William (Bill) Lee – Josten’s has made this old school RCN Ship’s Diver very proud to be part of this elite group of Sailors.
John Abraham – Of all the rings I own this is the one I will wear the most because it tells my diving story with quality and detail. Bravo Zulu
Josten’s!
Maurice (Moe) Muise – It was of great pleasure to work with the Josten’s Team in the design, production and delivery phases of our RCN
Ship’s Diver Ring. The quality is a 10 out of 10. BZ Josten’s!
NAME: ROB LOCKHART
PHONE: 613-795-6717
JOSTENSCANADA.COM/RCNSD.HTML
EMAIL: ROB.LOCKHART@JOSTENS.COM ©2021 JOSTENS, INC. PRINTED IN USA.TRIDENT NEWS MAY 17, 2021 11
Sports & Fitness
Greasing the groove:
small sets for big
progress
By Gage Smith,
Fitness and Sports Instructor, CFB Halifax
If your objective was to learn to play handstand hold, would be a great fit.
the violin, perfect your tennis serve, or An effective greasing the groove
improve your free throw percentage, approach can take many different
how would you go about improving forms. Someone with a very high max
your skill? Would you practice once or set of pull ups or pushups may be able
twice a week at an extreme intensity, to make great progress with one or
or would you take a more deliberate
and conservative approach and prac-
two near max sets per day ( morning
and evening would suit most people’s
Physical training at sea aboard
tice often, with bouts both short and
long? Clearly the second strategy would
scheduling just fine), while someone
struggling to perform 2 or 3 pull ups HMCS Harry DeWolf
yield better progress on these skills, would be much better served to do a
HMCS Harry DeWolf members perform lunges during a flight deck PT session on
but how does this relate to exercise and single rep as frequently as possible.
May 2. The ship is currently conducting warm weather trials in waters off Puerto
physical development? Believe it or not, The rules here are simple, albeit a
Rico.
some movements respond well to this little vague, and they do require some
CPL SIMON ARCAND, CAF PHOTO
unorthodox approach that has become customization.
known as “greasing the groove”. This Perform the movement often. Per-
approach relies on very frequent, very form an amount of reps that feels like
submaximal sets of a given movement work, but is nowhere near difficult or
or movements that you are trying to intense enough to impede recovery. If
improve. Let’s take a closer look at how in doubt, do less reps. The frequency
and when to apply this strategy, as well is the key here. You would be shocked
as when it might be best to take another by how much weekly volume you can
approach. accumulate by setting small challenges
Greasing the groove works best with for yourself. You could perform 5 or 10
low stress, minimal equipment body- pushups every waking hour, or perform
weight movements. My best advice is to a small set of pullups (30-50% of your
only use this approach with either the max) every time you pass by your door-
pushup OR the pullup, and to account way pullup bar. These small, low stress
for the additional volume appropriate sets are just a drop in the bucket. But
in your main training sessions. While the bucket fills up over time, and before
some have had success using this ap- you know it, you’ve made considerable
proach with other movements such as changes to both your physique and
pistol squats or kettlebell presses, these your performance.
movements present too many variables
for me to advise using the grease the
groove approach in good conscience.
Using this approach with bodyweight
movements, however, allows to maxi-
mize frequency and deliberate, specific
practice without overreaching. This
can be a fantastic strategy for those
needing to improve these movements
for an occupational PT test, or anyone
trying to keep from going stir crazy in
lockdown. I would definitely avoid this
approach with any barbell movements,
SUNDAYS AT 7PM ON FACEBOOK
though something very skill intensive
with a low demand on recovery, like a12 TRIDENT NEWS MAY 17, 2021
Using exercise as
medicine: S1 Jack
Brownell
By Joanie Veitch,
Trident Staff
After a severe injury during basic going through something like this, that
training ten years ago, Stadacona understanding is everything.
Band member S1 Jack Brownell drew S1 Brownell was halfway through
from his years of music and academic basic training at Saint-Jean, Quebec,
training to help him get through a long when a training exercise on uneven
rehabilitation process — that and the ground caused severe injury to his S1 Jack Brownell of the Stadacona Band
PSP Reconditioning team at CFB Hal- lower back and left hip, forcing him SUBMITTED
ifax, whose support went far beyond to return home — his training incom-
simply setting him up with an exercise plete and a long stretch of rehabilita- him to maintain his position with the Currently in recovery from surgery
program. tion ahead of him. Stadacona Band. unrelated to his injury, he’s back in
An accomplished musician, S1 As a musician, S1 Brownell is well- Following his injury, S1 Brownell the PSP program, working to regain
Brownell holds a Ph.D in musical per- versed in the rigours of practice and first spent time in physiotherapy fitness and function to prepare for the
formance. Working with the Stadacona repetition, finding parallels between before going to the PSP Reconditioning FORCE test, a prerequisite for all CAF
Band as a civilian before joining the the strict practice regimen music Centre — where he went every day, members.
band as a member of the Royal Cana- requires and the tough rehabilitation for two hours a day, for more than Even with the various COVID
dian Navy in 2011, S1 Brownell played process he went through following his three years. The improvements were restrictions that affect the in-person
with professional brass quintets injury. incremental at first, but as the months program at the centre, the PSP folks
internationally and as the principal “Classical musicians are like ath- passed, he could see that he was on the have set him up with a phone app
tubist with Symphony Nova Scotia in letes in the sense that they go through road to recovery. with exercises for him to follow every
his earlier career. He has also taught extremes in training and discipline, In January 2015, at 52 years of age, day. As part of his cardio program,
at several universities, most recently training their muscles over and over S1 Brownell went back to Saint-Jean he works out on an elliptical machine
serving on the faculty at Dalhousie and over… sometimes not seeing the to complete basic training. “I’m sure at home — watching episodes of TV
University. results of their efforts for months or when they saw me they just thought I programs to stay motivated.
After his injury, he worried about even years. I know that and it helped was this old broken guy...most of the “I went through the entire West
his ability to work in any capacity, me a lot as I went through this,” he recruits were 18- to 22-year-olds,” he Wing and I’m working on House now,”
musical or otherwise. said. laughed. “When it came time for grad- he laughed. “I like the oldies.”
“I remember back then, there were Even with that perspective, howev- uation, I wasn’t the fastest, I wasn’t the The PSP Reconditioning program is
times I didn’t think I would ever get er, S1 Brownell reflects on that time strongest...but I won the award for the a fitness program designed to meet the
better but the PSP staff were always of injury and recovery as one of the male that worked the hardest. I still demands of serving CAF members that
there; they believed in me long before I most stressful he’s ever been through, look at that from time to time.” are dealing with injury and illness. For
could believe in myself again,” he said. crediting Joint Personnel Support S1 Brownell is still a regular at the more information, speak to your doctor
“These are the folks who know what’s Unit staff and trainers at the PSP PSP Reconditioning Centre, joking or contact PSP Reconditioning Manag-
hurting and know how hard you’re Reconditioning Program for getting that at times he sees the trainers there er Kerianne Willigar at 902-402-4890 or
trying; they understand. When you’re him through rehabilitation, enabling more than he sees his work colleagues. Kerianne.Willigar@forces.gc.ca.
Face of Base: Deshawn Davison
By CFB Halifax Public Affairs,
Meet this week’s #FaceofBaseHFX, While studying, Deshawn was inspired
Deshawn Davison! Deshawn works to join DND after discussing work
at Base Executive Services (BES) as opportunities with some classmates
a Training Coordinator, where he and attending a DND job fair in Wind-
administers experiential learning sor Park. Today, he’s a big fan of his
opportunities and offers training sup- colleagues and working at the Base:
port to various units at CFB Halifax. “For anyone considering a career at
In this role, Deshawn supports senior DND, CAF or RCN – if you are looking
management in learning-focused event for an organization that genuinely
planning, such as BES Professional cares about its employees and mem-
Development Days, which he is very bers, recognizes its flaws and strives to
proud of. He also enjoys finding cre- better itself – look no further!” A fun
ative solutions in his work, like when fact about Deshawn? He played com-
he developed an online training pro- petitive baseball and hockey for over
gram last year for summer students 10 years, which allowed him to travel
who could not physically work on Base throughout Canada and the U.S. as a
property due to the pandemic. young athlete. As one of our Defence
Born and raised in Dartmouth, Team members who is still early in
Deshawn attended Prince Andrew his career, Deshawn is part of the next
High School and went on to enroll at generation of leaders and change-mak-
Deshawn Davison Nova Scotia Community College for a ers at the Base – and we are thrilled to
SUBMITTED diploma in Business Administration. have him onboard!You can also read
