The season of Remembrance - UFDC Image Array 2
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
Monday November 2, 2020 Volume 54, Issue 22
www.tridentnewspaper.com
The season of Remembrance
On October 23 each year, wreaths are laid at the Bonaventure Memorial to commemorate the 1969 explosion and fire in HMCS Kootenay, resulting in the
deaths of nine members of the Royal Canadian Navy.
MONA GHIZ, MARLANT PA
2 TRIDENT NEWS NOVEMBER 2, 2020
The bike-a-thon was orchestrated by SLt Alisha
McCafferty (left) and SLt Shannon O’Reilly (right)
S1 LOUIS-PHILIPPE DUBÉ
Members of the MSE department of HMCS Ville de
Quebec participate in a bike-a-thon during the return
One hundred forty-seven participants making up 6 teams, each home after Ex JOINT WARRIOR.
representing one of the ship’s departments, participate in the challenge. S1 LOUIS-PHILIPPE DUBÉ
S1 LOUIS-PHILIPPE DUBÉ
Helping others in
a time of COVID
By Lt Nicole Morrison,
MARLANT PA
During the 24-hour event, the teams split up the 24-
Picture this: music is blasting and people are while getting in some exercise, all while in friendly hour period as they saw fit, with some teams taking
cheering as 147 participants, split into 6 teams, take competition with their shipmates. hour-long shifts, others tag-teaming the hours with
turns riding stationary bikes as part of ship-wide The bike-a-thon was orchestrated by SLt Alisha 15 minute sprints. The final total showed that teams
fundraising bike-a-thon. Their teammates stand McCafferty and SLt Shannon O’Reilly, Marine biked 4342.4 km, roughly the equivalent of crossing
next to them, offering encouragement and bottles of Systems Engineering Officers-in training. “It was a the Atlantic Ocean.
water as they pedal. In a COVID environment, the really fun day that we had a great time organizing” S1 LOUIS-PHILIPPE DUBÉ
only place an event like this can take place is on a said SLt O’Reilly. “It’s great that we can still get to
ship, due to the quarantine restrictions and COVID do this kind of thing while we’re on ship,” added
testing of sailors prior to departure for Ex JOINT SLt McCafferty. “It would have been much harder
WARRIOR 20-2, effectively eliminating the risk to make happen on land, because of all the COVID
transmission while on ship, and making life at sea limitations.”
more comfortable for those on board. This COVID-free status allowed the crew onboard
The event was part of the National Defence the ships to have peace of mind as they sailed for
Workplace Charitable Campaign, and consisted of the UK, not needing to wear masks or keep six
147 participants making up 6 teams, each represent- feet of distance between them, something that is
ing one of the ship’s departments. The teams split extremely difficult to achieve on a warship. By re-
up the 24-hour period as they saw fit, with some maining on board during port visits, and not inter-
teams taking hour-long shifts, others tag-teaming acting with any shore staff, the crews maintained
the hours with 15 minute sprints. Over the course that status throughout the sail, totaling five weeks
of 24 hours, 4342.4 km were biked, roughly the COVID-free, making this charity bike-a-thon on the
equivalent of crossing the Atlantic Ocean, and flight deck and in the hangar possible and allowing
$5113.00 was raised among the six teams. While members to be close by as they offered support for
only one team, the Combat Systems Engineering their teammates. S1 Wyatt Yetman spins while PO1 Matthew Pitman
department, was crowned the winner, the ship’s monitors the bike data.
company had a fun day raising money for charity S1 LOUIS-PHILIPPE DUBÉ
TRIDENT NEWS NOVEMBER 2, 2020 3
HMCS Koyenato survivors mark 51st anniversary
since tragic explosion at sea
By Ryan Melanson,
Trident Staff
It was a morning of somber remem- and improvements in engineering in
brance on October 23 at Point Pleasant our ships is Kootenay’s legacy.”
Park, as survivors and members of the This year also marked the first time
HMCS Kootenay family, as they do ev- survivors and RCN members wore
ery year, gathered to commemorate the the new Kootenay ribbon, which was
accident at sea that changed their lives introduced in 2019 as part of initiatives
forever 51 years ago. marking the 50th anniversary, and is
The 1969 fire and subsequent explo- now to be worn each year on October
sion aboard Kootenay killed nine mem- 23. Attendees left the ribbons, along
bers of the crew, injured more than 50 with flowers, on the memorial following
others, and left each sailor on board the ceremony.
with difficult memories that remain AB (Ret’d) Allan Dinger Bell, who
today. Many have, and continue, to was severely wounded after narrowly
struggle with PTSD and mental health escaping the burning engine room on
issues, as well as physical health issues, that tragic day, said he was particularly
stemming from the incident. glad to see the Anchor Memorial itself
The fire began when a bearing in the in such fine shape for the occasion after
ship’s starboard gearbox failed during recent repairs, and to have additional
RAdm Brian Santarpia, Commander MARLANT and JTFA, speaks to attendees
full power trials off the coast of England names now added to the memorial,
about the significance of the HMCS Kootenay disaster.
on October 23, 1969, causing an explo- which is intended to honour all RCN
CPL RENZO RUIZ-HAAS
sion that ripped through the engine sailors who died while serving their
room and sent a ball of fire through the country during peacetime.
ship’s passageways. The crew fought “We added 46 names last year. The
for hours to save their ship, acting old policy was to bury people overseas
bravely under great pressure and while if they passed, so their bodies aren’t
full of worry for the safety of them- here, but now their names are here, and
selves and their colleagues. that’s very important for the families.
“Here on the shores of Halifax Har- It’s much bigger than just Kootenay,” he
bour, Kootenay’s home port for many said.
years, we commemorate those Koote-
nay’s who died tragically in service to Members of HMCS Kootenay lost on
their country. We commemorate their October 23, 1969:
shipmates who still hurt and grieve, CPO1 Vaino ’Ski’ Partanen
and we commemorate the families CPO2 William Alfred ‘Billy’ Boudreau
of the fallen and the survivors,” said PO Eric George Harman
Capt(N) Ret’d John Pickford, who PO Lewis John Stringer
delivered the eulogy for the day. He LS Pierre ‘Pete’ Bourrett
wasn’t a member of the 1969 Kootenay LS Thomas Gordon Crabbe
crew, but his father was the ship’s first LS Gary Wayne Hutton
Commanding Officer in 1959, and he OS Michael Allen Hardy Capt(N) (Ret’d) John Pickford delivered the eulogy during the ceremony, while
said he’s honoured to stay connected OS Nelson Murray Galloway Jack Chamberlain rang the ship’s bell during the roll call for Kootenay crew
with the survivors and wider Kootenay members who have died.
family. CPL RENZO RUIZ-HAAS
Fewer people than usual were in atten-
dance due to public health restrictions,
but the gathering at the Bonaventure
Anchor Memorial still included Koote-
nay survivors and their families, local
RCN leadership, and representation
from the various levels of government.
“It was the worst peacetime accident
in the history of the Royal Canadian
Navy, and we’re gathered here today
to remember the nine crew members
who were killed 51 years ago, to honour
the 53 others who were wounded, and
to recognize the other survivors, whose
courage and determination saved the
lives of their shipmates as well as their
ship,” said RAdm Brian Santarpia,
Commander MARLANT and JTFA, in
his remarks during the ceremony. He
added comments about the major im-
provements in firefighting and damage
control on ships that came following the
disaster, including the Damage Control
Training Facility (DCTF) Kootenay that
opened in 2000 in honour of the victims
and survivors. A ceremony was held at the Bonaventure Anchor Memorial in Point Pleasant Park on October 23 to mark 51 years since the
“Increased equipment, better train- fire and explosion aboard HMCS Kootenay.
ing, thorough maintenance procedures CPL RENZO RUIZ-HAAS
4 TRIDENT NEWS NOVEMBER 2, 2020
www.tridentnewspaper.com
Editor: Virginia Beaton
editor@tridentnews.ca
(902) 427-4235
Journalist: Ryan Melanson
reporter@tridentnews.ca
(902) 427-4231
Editorial Advisor: Margaret Conway
margaret.conway@forces.gc.ca
902-721-0560
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
Canadian Forces Newspapers Policy dated April 11,
2005. Deadline for copy and advertising is 10 a.m., 11
business days prior to the publication date. Material must
be accompanied by the contributor’s name, address and
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. Medical staff and civilians involved with the project
celebrate the official opening of the CT scanner.
Le Trident est une publication militaire autorisée par le
contre-amiral Brian Santarpia, Commandant la force NEIL CLARKSON, FIS
opérationnelle interarmées de l‘Atlantique, qui est
distribuée partout au Canada et outremer les lundis
N wCTscannerociallyopen
e
toutes les quinzaines. Le rédacteur en chef se réserve
le droit de modifier, de condenser ou de rejeter les
articles, photographies ou annonces publicitaires
jugées contraires aux objectifs d’un journal militaire
selon la définition donnée à politique temporaire des
journaux des forces canadiennes. L’heure de tombée des
of rbusiness
annonces publi- citaires ou des articles est fixée à 1000
le jeudi précédant la semaine de publication. Les textes
peuvent être soumis en français ou en anglais; ils doivent
indiquer le nom, l’adresse et le numéro de téléphone du
collaborateur. Les opinions et les annonces publicitaires
imprimées par le Trident sont celles des collaborateurs et
agents publicitaires et non nécessairement celles de la
rédaction, du MDN ou de l’éditeur.
By Virginia Beaton,
Trident Staff
Annual Subscription (25 issues):
• NS: $37.38 ($32.50 + 15 % HST)
• ON, NB & NFLD: $36.73 ($32.50 + 13% HST) Canadian Forces Health Services without the help of many individuals,” make this happen, said Capt(N) Sean
• BC: $36.40 ($32.50 + 12% HST)
• Remainder of Canada: Centre (Atlantic) (CF H Svcs C (A)) held LCol Heudes emphasized. She thanked Williams, Base Commander CFB Hali-
$34.13 ($32.50 + GST) the ribbon cutting ceremony for its Maj Danielle Stacey, the Director of fax. “Well done, everyone.”
• United States: $45 US
• Abroad: $65 US new CT scanner on Friday, October 23. Pharmacy Services at CF H Svcs C (A), LCol Heudes also singled out Kelly
Courier address: “I fought hard to get it,” LCol Heudes, for her part in the acquisition of the Marchand and Todd Nauss of the Real
2740 Barrington Street, Commanding Officer of CF H Svcs C scanner. “She took this project and ran Property Operations Unit (Atlantic) for
Halifax, N.S.
B3K 5X5 (A), told the audience at the ceremony. with it, and made it happen,” said LCol their help. In acknowledgement of their
Publication Mail Agreement No. She stated that the scanner will en- Heudes. assistance in bringing the CT scanner
40023785 hance patient care and the clinic. Addi- LCol Heudes thanked many members to CF H Svcs S (A), each man received
Return undelivered Canadian address to: tionally, the scanner, which is con- of the clinic staff, including Medical the Commanding Officer’s Commenda-
Trident Newspaper Bldg. S-93
PO Box 99000 tainerized and located in the parking Radiology technicians, and noted that tion.
Station Forces, Halifax, NS B3K 5X5 lot of the medical clinic at Stadacona, the first patient was due for a scan on Following the ribbon cutting, LCol
Return Postage Guaranteed
ISN 0025-3413 is deployable in support of 1 Canadian Monday, October 26. Heudes invited those present to take
Circulation: Minimum 8,500
Field Hospital Operations. “It’s incredible the way that so many a tour of the scanner and learn more
“This would not have been possible people were able to come together and about its capacity.
Capt(Williams (left) and LCol Heudes (right) display the CT scanner before inviting Capt(N) Williams (third from left) and LCol Heudes (fourth from left) cut the
ceremony attendees for a tour. ribbon to officially open the new CT scanner.
NEIL CLARKSON, FIS NEIL CLARKSON, FIS
5 TRIDENT NEWS NOVEMBER 2, 2020 November 16 – 20 is MARLANT Energy Awareness Week 2020 By Peter Mallett The Lookout Staff Energy makes our lives more com- or buying energy efficient applianc- ply changing behaviors and habits member that energy conservation is fortable, productive, and enjoyable as es. Our energy choices and actions towards energy consumption and as something each of us can take part in we depend on energy for light, heat, can result in a significant reduction a result save money, prevent harmful every day. food, water, transport, entertainment in the amount of energy used and in environmental impacts and reduce Look for daily tips on energy use, and communication, etc. Sustaining turn create a healthier environment the demand on the earth’s resources. efficiency and conservation on the this quality of life requires careful and save money. Energy conservation can be put MARLANT Home Page, as well as an use of energy resources by reducing MARLANT’s Energy Awareness into practice immediately at very opportunity to take part in an Effi- total energy use and using energy Week will take place from 16-20 little or no cost. Take the time to go ciency NS presentation to learn more more efficiently. There are many November 2020. The theme this year through your daily energy behav- about conserving energy and saving things we can do to use less ener- is “Energy Conservation - Be Energy iors and habits and identify positive money in the process. gy and use it more wisely, such as Wise”. This is a great opportunity to changes you can make at home or at turning off the lights when not in use learn how to conserve energy by sim- work to reduce energy usage. Re- Do you have what it takes to tackle The Amazing Base Race? By Ryan Melanson Trident Staff Calling all reality TV fans – regis- tration is now open for The Amazing Base Race, a mental and physical challenge based loosely on the long-running TV show, happening here at CFB Halifax in support of this year’s National Defence Workplace Charitable Campaign (NDWCC). The event is open to military and civilian members of the Defence Com- munity, and will see teams of four racing throughout HMC Dockyard and Stadacona on November 4. The course will begin outside D-200, and teams will have to search for clues to find the correct locations along the route, while dealing with pit stops, detours, and roadblocks, just like on The Amazing Race itself. “If you’re a fan of the show, you might have watched it and thought ‘I wonder if I could do that – run around and find the clues and get to the next location quickly,’ so this is a chance to try that out, go on a little adven- ture, and support charity as well,” said Lt(N) Callista Szachury, who has taken the lead on organizing the event along with her colleagues from HMCS St.John’s, including the Com- manding Officer and Fleet NDWCC Champion, Cdr Michael Eelhart. The course is being designed to rep or contact PO2 Snashall at Devin. “This is about supporting NDWCC, She said her team was brainstorm- take roughly one hour to complete, Snashall@forces.gc.ca. Teams are also but it could also be a way to build ing ideas for a base-wide activity depending on how fast participants asked to identify an hour-long window morale among your ship. You can in support of NDWCC, and with a move. between 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. on November 5 challenge each other throughout de- few fans of the TV show among the “You can try for the fastest time, that works best for them to take part. partments, or you can reach out and crew, it all came together naturally. or you can just do it for your own en- Lt(N) Szachury said the event can challenge your buddies on another Unlike the real thing, however, The joyment. It’s completely up to you,” accommodate up to 90 teams, so there’s ship,” she added. Amazing Base Race won’t necessarily Lt(N) Szachury said. plenty of slots available, and she’s “It can be a nice break from your be a fierce competition, and though The cost to register is only $10 encouraging people to team up with routine while supporting a good there will be prizes awarded, there’s per team, and those interested can friends or colleagues and have some cause.” no shame in going at your own pace. sign up with their unit NDWCC fun with it.
6 TRIDENT NEWS NOVEMBER 2, 2020
Foster a safe and inclusive workplace using the
Positive Space Program
By Aimee Nkoghe,
Directorate of Human Rights and Diversity (DHRD)
persons and communities. It increases Positive Space Instructors who
overall awareness of LGBTQ2+ issues will then be able to instruct all
within workplaces and positively three portions of the program.
enhances the entire work experiences Training includes discussions,
within the Defence Team by creating a testimonials and practical activ-
safer, more open minded environment ities which result in a national
for all. qualification.
The Positive Space Program offers
one-hour, three-hours and two-day Instructors, ambassadors, volun-
training sessions to help create a teers and allies welcome everyone
safe and inclusive workplace for equally. Maximum participation
all, regardless of sexual orientation, across the Defence Team is recom-
gender identity, or gender expression. mended because through dialogue, ed-
It’s done through a volunteer and ucation and leadership support we will
peer-based support network. Here is a help create safer, more inclusive work-
rundown on what is offered: spaces that realize our full potential.
CANFORGEN 079/20 Dated 18 June
• Positive Space Information 2020 has more information about the
Session – a one-hour interactive program and who is responsible for
Most people think a positive space is Defence Team members across Canada presentation which provides an coordinating training sessions:
a physical environment where you can and internationally have participated overview of the program and http://vcds.mil.ca/apps/canforgens/
talk, but what this program teaches is in Positive Space training on 25 Bases/ LGBTQ2+ issues. This presen- default-eng.asp?id=079-20&type=-can-
acceptance of others. Wings to help foster supportive and tation helps to increase general forgen (DWAN)
Two years ago a Positive Space inclusive workplaces.There are more awareness. It is open for all Toolkits for leadership, ambassa-
Program was created to assist Defence than 200 ambassadors trained and Defence Team members. dors and instructors are available at:
Team members foster a more inclu- available to help use effective listen- • Positive Space Ambassador http://intranet.mil.ca/en/res/diversi-
sive workplace. Understandably, we ing, empathy and strength to make Workshop – a three-hour work- ty-employment-equity.page
all want to work in a place where we people feel fully themselves without shop for volunteers who would Contact a positive Space Ambassa-
can bring our authentic selves to work any fear or prejudice. like to become Positive Space dor in our area:
and feel comfortable doing so, but how The Positive Space Program works Ambassadors of workplace in- http://cmp-cpm.mil.ca/assets/
do we contribute to such an environ- in collaboration with the Defence clusion. It enables them to offer CMP_Intranet/docs/en/support/ps-
ment? Team Pride Network, which collabo- support, raise awareness, and amb-inst-list-liste-des-ambassadeurs-
Here’s how: prioritize the respect of rates and consults on program content, post identifiers to designate both et-des-instructeurs-2020.pdf (DWAN)
each and every individual member of structure, and delivery, in addition themselves and their workspac- This list is updated monthly.
the Defence Team for what they con- to assisting local Commanders with es as safe. Questions can be addressed to:
tribute: skills, knowledge, perspectives needs assessments.This collaboration • Positive Space Ambassador • PositiveSpace-EspacePositif@
and every other element of a person’s helps develop a stronger cultural lit- Train the Trainer – two-day forces.gc.ca
identity that makes them unique. eracy on the history, identity, stories, classroom training provided • LGBTQ2Questions@forces.gc.ca
Over the last two years almost 500 challenges and victories of LGBTQ2+ to volunteers who can become
Army cadets
accepting new
members
By 3036 Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corps
The 3036 Sackville Lions and information phone call: ca-
RCEME Royal Canadian Army dets3036@gmail.com. There are
Sailing to Op CARIBBE Cadet Corps will be accepting
new youth between the ages of
12-18 to join the cadet corps.
no registration fees.
For more information,
email cadets3036@gmail.com or
New cadets are welcome to go to Facebook.com/cadets3036.
HMCS Summerside departs on October 26, 2020, on a 2-month deployment to the
email us to set up a registration
Caribbean Sea on Op CARIBBE to support the US-led Campaign MARTILLO, a
multinational effort to improve security in the region and prevent illicit trafficking
by organized crime in the region. Cpl Simon Arcand, Image tech, Formation Imag-
ing Service films HMCS Summerside during departure.
MONA GHIZ, MARLANT PUBLIC AFFAIRS
7 TRIDENT NEWS NOVEMBER 2, 2020
Promouvoir la sécurité et l’inclusion au travail à
l’aide du programme Espace positif
Par Aimee Nkoghe,
Direction des droits de la personne et diversité (DDPD)
séances de formation d’une heure, de pratiques permettant d’obtenir
trois heures et de deux jours en vue de une qualification nationale.
créer un milieu de travail sécuritaire
et inclusif pour tous les employés, sans Les instructeurs, ambassadeurs,
égard à leur orientation sexuelle, à leur bénévoles et alliés accueillent tout le
identité de genre ou à leur expression monde sans discrimination.
de genre. Ces formations sont données Une participation maximale de
par l’intermédiaire d’un réseau de sou- l’Équipe de la Défense est encouragée,
tien composé de bénévoles et de pairs. car c’est grâce au dialogue, à la forma-
Voici un aperçu de ce qui est offert : tion et au soutien de la direction que
• Séance d’information Espace nous pourrons créer des milieux de
positif : Présentation interactive travail sécuritaires et inclusifs où les
d’une heure qui fait un survol membres pourront réaliser tout leur
du programme et des enjeux des potentiel.
communautés LGBTQ2+. Cette CANFORGEN 079/20 daté du
présentation accroît la sensibili- 18 juin 2020 : fournit des précisions sur
sation générale. Elle est offerte à le programme et identifie le respons-
Nombreux sont ceux qui croient Il y a plus de 200 ambassadeurs qui sont tous les membres de l’Équipe de able de la coordination des séances de
qu’un espace positif est simplement un qualifiés et prêts à aider, en misant sur • Atelier de l’ambassadeur de l’Es- formation :
environnement physique où ils peuvent l’écoute, l’empathie et la capacité de pace positif : Atelier de trois heu- http://vcds.mil.ca/apps/canforgens/
discuter, mais ce que ce programme laisser les gens être totalement eux- res destiné aux bénévoles qui default-eng.asp?id=079-20&type=can-
enseigne, c’est la tolérance. mêmes, sans crainte d’être jugés. aimeraient devenir ambassadeur forgen
Il y a deux ans, le programme Es- Les responsables du programme ou ambassadrice de l’Espace Les trousses d’outils à l’intention de
pace positif a été créé pour assister les Espace positif travaillent en collabo- positif pour promouvoir l’inclu- la direction, des ambassadeurs et des
membres de l’Équipe de la Défense qui ration avec le Réseau de la fierté de sion au travail. À l’issue de cet instructeurs sont disponibles sur la
favorisent l’inclusion dans le milieu de l’Équipe de la Défense, qui les con- atelier, les participants pourront page suivante : http://intranet.mil.ca/
travail. Il va de soi que nous souhaitons seille sur le contenu, la structure et soutenir et sensibiliser leurs en/res/diversity-employment-equity.
tous travailler dans un milieu où nous l’exécution du programme et qui aide collègues, porter des insignes les page
nous sentons à l’aise d’être nousmêmes, les commandants locaux à évaluer les rattachant à la cause et désigner Pour communiquer avec un ambas-
mais comment pouvonsnous con- besoins. Cette collaboration permet leur milieu de travail comme un sadeur de l’Espace positif dans votre
tribuer à créer un tel environnement? d’enrichir les connaissances culturelles espace sécuritaire; région :
Avant tout, en respectant la contribu- sur l’histoire, l’identité, la vie, les • Ambassadeurs/ambassadrices http://cmp-cpm.mil.ca/assets/CMP_
tion de chaque membre de l’Équipe de défis et les victoires des membres des de l’Espace positif – formation Intranet/docs/en/support/ps-amb.-
la Défense : habiletés, connaissances, communautés LGBTQ2+. Elle permet des formateurs : Formation en inst-list-_-liste-des-ambassadeurs-et-des-
perspectives et tout autre aspect de aussi d’accroître la sensibilisation classe de deux jours destinée aux instructeurs-_12-march2020.pdf. Cette
l’identité d’une personne qui la rendent générale aux enjeux que ces personnes bénévoles qui peuvent devenir liste est mise à jour une fois par mois.
unique. affrontent dans les milieux de travail instructeur ou instructrice de Vous pouvez adresser vos questions
Depuis deux ans, près de 500 mem- et d’enrichir l’expérience de travail des l’Espace positif. À l’issue de cette à:
bres de l’Équipe de la Défense au Can- membres de l’Équipe de la Défense, en formation, les participants seront • PositiveSpace-EspacePositif@
ada et ailleurs dans le monde ont suivi créant un milieu sécuritaire et ouvert en mesure d’enseigner les trois forces.gc.ca
la formation sur l’espace positif dans pour tous. volets du programme. La forma- • LGBTQ2Questions@forces.gc.ca
25 bases/escadres en vue de promou- De plus, les responsables du pro- tion comprend des discussions,
voir le soutien et l’inclusion au travail. gramme Espace positif offrent des des témoignages et des activités
TUESDAYS & THURSDAYS AT 12PM
TRIDENT NEWS NOVEMBER 2, 2020 8
Sailor Profile: Lt(N) Stephanie Bengle
By Navy PA
Lt(N) Stephanie Bengle is the first helped me and strengthened my bond proud to serve Canada. women who have stood before us, we
of her family to serve Canada in the with those members I consider my “Although I did not see myself in can have a greater appreciation for
armed forces, and admittedly never family. Second, I reached out back this career when I was younger, I am the challenges they have faced and the
considered military service until later home to as many friend and family truly thankful that I have found my road they have paved for many of us
in high school. members as I could. The support from place within the RCN and I am thank- today. I think it is incredibly import-
“I admit, it was never something I those closest to me helped keep me ful to be a member.” ant for each generation as young girls
considered at first, but once I did my going and reminded me that I was October was Women’s History look up to these women who they see
research I became very intrigued by fortunate to have such amazing people Month, and Lt(N) Bengle believes that as role models, and they can feel in-
it. Although I have no service mem- in my life.” the celebration of women’s achieve- spired to reach further than they ever
bers in my family, my father was the “I reminded myself that this expe- ments during the month has a pro- thought they could.”
first person who piqued my interest rience was important and would give found effect on future generations of One of Lt(N) Bengle’s role models
in the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN),” me the tools to be better in my career women. is the RCN’s own Cmdre Josée Kurtz,
says Lt(N) Bengle. and to help others in the future.” “It has an impact on how young girls for whom she was fortunate to serve
“Both my parents were my biggest Lt(N) Bengle said she has stayed in and women see themselves as strong, as Flag Lieutenant while Cmdre Kurtz
supporters as I started to become the RCN because she knows it’s a good capable and inspiring beings,” said held command of Standing NATO
interested in a career in the RCN and career for her, she values the security Lt(N) Bengle. Maritime Group Two (SNMG2).
studying at Royal Military College of and opportunities it provides, and is “By studying and honouring the “As our ship was the command plat-
Canada (RMC). After deciding that form I had ample time to learn from
RMC was the right fit for me, I en- her. She has inspired me and motivat-
rolled in the RCN in 2010 and it’s been ed me in many ways,” explained Lt(N)
an adventure ever since.” Bengle.
Since enrolling in the Royal Canadi- “She paved many paths being the
an Navy (RCN) in 2010 Lt(N) Bengle’s first woman to command a Canadi-
career has been nothing short of an an Patrol Frigate as well as the first
adventure filled with both challenges woman to command a Standing NATO
and experiences that have helped her Fleet. Those two achievements are
grow personally. inspiring enough, but beyond those
“My biggest career has most defi- personal accomplishments she taught
nitely been my recent deployment on me many important lessons such as
Op REASSURANCE onboard Her Maj- how to bring grace and humility to
esty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Halifax my job, and how to bring a sense of
from July 2019 to January 2020,” says calmness and composure when things
Lt(N) Bengle. get complicated or frustrating.”
“It was my first deployment and it She says the best advice she has
was quite a learning experience for received is to fight through self-doubt
me, in fact, I am still learning from and prove to myself that I am a capa-
it to this day. I do not think anything ble person. “That advice is some of the
can prepare you for how it will feel to most valuable to remember no matter
be disconnected from your world and who you are or what you do for a liv-
routine back home.” ing,” says Lt(N) Bengle.
Even though the first deployment “I think it is advice I will call on
is a difficult experience shared by all when approaching any difficult job or
who deploy, Lt(N) Bengle leaned on Lt(N) Stephanie Bengle challenge I face in my future and for
her close friends for support. SUBMITTED the rest of my life.”
“Sharing that experience with them
Cmdre Josée Kurtz speaks with Lt(N) Bengle, her Flag Lieutenant during Cmdre Lt(N) Stephanie Bengle, aboard Spanish ship ESPS Patiño, oversees a replenishment
Kurtz’s command of Standing NATO Maritime Group Two. at sea with HMCS Halifax during Op REASSURANCE on January 20, 2020.
SUBMITTED SUBMITTED
9 TRIDENT NEWS NOVEMBER 2, 2020
Youth Reporter
Contest
By PSP Community Recreation
Being a military family member that reflects the unique issues
carries unique challenges, and that important to themselves, as
that is particularly true regarding well as their friends and family.
the children of military members. Youth interested in this endeavor
Military youth have an important should submit an application (which
perspective that is often overlooked can be found at CAFconnection.ca/
in the CAF Community. CAF News- YouthReporter) with their story
papers want to change that, and are pitch by 31 December, 2020.
currently seeking youth reporters CAF newspaper managers will
from military families between the then meet in January to choose
ages of 13 and 18 to write a story the five most unique and powerful
about the unique issues facing them. story pitches, and have the winning
“I believe the youth in our CAF participants write their story. The
Community have an important voice stories will then be published on-
and perspective that we need to draw line and in CAF newspapers, and a
out to better understand how we can grand prize package and scholarship
serve the unique needs of military will be awarded for the best story,
families” says Canadian Forces Mo- as determined by reader votes.
rale and Welfare, Chief, CWO Marco Wanted: Youth Reporter
Côté. Apply now to participate in this
The story the youth reporter scholarship competition organized
provides must be original, and by the Canadian Forces Newspapers.
should be written on an issue, www.CAFconnection.ca/YouthRe-
personal experience or insight, porter.
Article sur le concours
de jeunes journalistes
Par PSP Loisirs Communautaires
Faire partie de la famille d’un mil- qui reflète des enjeux particuliers
itaire comporte son lot de difficultés, qui touchent le jeune et ses proches.
surtout lorsque l’on est l’enfant d’un Les jeunes intéressés doivent
militaire. Les jeunes membres de la soumettre leur sujet et s’inscrire (à
communauté des FAC ont un point l’aide du formulaire fourni à l’adres-
de vue unique que l’on ignore trop se www.connexionfac.ca/jeunejour-
souvent. Pour remédier à cette situa- naliste) d’ici le 31 décembre 2020.
tion, les journaux des Forces armées Les gestionnaires des journaux
canadiennes sont à la recherche de des FAC se réuniront en janvier
jeunes journalistes issus de familles pour choisir les cinq sujets les plus
des militaires et âgés de 13 à 18 ans, uniques et touchants, et demand-
qui souhaitent écrire un article eront aux participants sélectionnés
au sujet d’une situation unique d’écrire leur histoire. Les articles se-
à laquelle ils doivent faire face. ront ensuite publiés en ligne et dans
« Les jeunes membres de la com- les journaux des FAC. Un grand prix
munauté des FAC ont une per- et une bourse seront attribués au
spective et une voix importantes meilleur article, qui sera choisi par
que nous devons écouter si nous les lecteurs.
voulons comprendre comment Jeunes journalistes recherchés
répondre aux besoins uniques Soumettez votre candidature dès
des familles des militaires, » maintenant et courez la chance de
affirme l’adjudant-chef Mar- remporter une bourse d’études!
co Côté, Services de bien-être et Ce concours est organisé par les
moral des Forces canadiennes. journaux des FAC.
La proposition doit être originale et https://www.connexionfac.ca/
décrire une situation, une expéri- Nationale/S-impliquer/Le-concours-
ence personnelle ou un point de vue de-jeunes-journalistes.aspx.
TRIDENT NEWS NOVEMBER 2, 2020 10
TRIDENT NEWS NOVEMBER 2, 2020 11
Remembrance 2020
By Trident Staff
This year, Remembrance ceremonies statistics were staggering and Lieutenant Governor’s Facebook Again concert by the Stadaco-
and commemorations will be mostly sobering: 207 businesses looted, page at 7 p.m. Go to https://www. na Band of the Royal Canadian
virtual, owing to COVID-19 health and 564 damaged, 2,692 glass windows facebook.com/LtGovNS Navy, to be released on Wednes-
safety requirements. and doors shattered, 353 people • Wednesday, November 11, 11 day, November 11, at 11 a.m. on
Here are several events that can be arrested, all fueled by stolen a.m. : Local and national re- the MARLANT YouTube page.
livestreamed: alcohol: 6,987 cases of beer, 1,225 membrance ceremonies will be This pre-recorded concert will be
• Tuesday, November 3, 7 p.m. of wine, another 55,392 bottles of livestreamed on Facebook and/ presented virtually this year due
Evenings @ Government House: spirits from local liquor commis- or broadcast on TV. In accor- to ongoing public health restric-
The story of how Halifax’s expe- sions with another 30,000 quarts dance with COVID-19 health and tions, ensuring that all members
riences during the Second World of beer that walked from Keith’s safety protocols, CAF members of the public can safely watch,
War led to the shocking VE Day Brewery. are requested not to attend live listen, and remember our rich
Riots that marked the war’s end. What started as a local celebra- ceremonies. military history both collectively
Local author Stephen Kimber tion of the end of the war and Hal- • Wednesday, November 11, and from a distance. Please join
will tell the story of how Hali- ifax’s important role in winning 8 a.m. : As part of Veterans’ us this Remembrance Day for a
fax’s experiences during WW2 it turned into a city-smashing, Week, Maritime Forces Atlantic special virtual commemoration
led to the shocking VE Day Riots cite-shaming 72-hour riot.This (MARLANT) is proud to present honouring our veterans, past and
that marked the war’s end. The event will be livestreamed on the the 19th annual ‘Til We Meet present.
Key events of the Battle of the Atlantic: October
By CPO1 (Ret’d) Pat Devenish,
Canadian Naval Memorial Trust
strating the effectiveness for the first ger steamship Caribou enroute from
time of submarine wolf pack tactics. North Sydney, Nova Scotia to Port aux October 4, 1944 - While escorting
October 19, 1940 - In an ice storm Basques, Newfoundland is torpedoed Convoy ONS 33, a convoy made up
in the Gulf of St. Lawrence in one of by U-69 in the Cabot Strait. Caribou’s of slow ships, the River class frigate
those mysteries of war, the auxiliary escort, the minesweeper HMCS Grand- HMCS Chebogue is struck by a Ger-
minesweeper HMCS Bras d’Or and mere immediately commences depth man GNAT (acoustic torpedo) fired by
her crew of 40 is never seen nor heard charge attacks and attempts to ram U-1227. She subsequently sits out the
from again. It is assumed she suffered but the U-boat escapes. Of the original war in a Wales shipyard after losing 10
irreversible damage in an earlier 237 crew and passengers aboard, only metres of her stern and suffering other
grounding. 104 survive. Said Angus L. Macdonald, extensive damage as well as losing 7 of
Minister of National Defence (Navy) her crew.
October 22, 1940 - Still relatively following news of Caribou’s loss: “…
early in the war, Canada’s still small (if) there were any Canadians who did October 8, 1944 - The Bangor class
Navy suffers another 142 souls lost as not realize that we were up against a minesweeper HMCS Mulgrave strikes
HMCS Margaree (former HMS Diana) ruthless and remorseless enemy, there a mine near Le Havre off the Brittany
sinks after colliding with the freighter can be no such Canadians now.” coast. Though spared the loss of any
Port Fairy in rough seas 400 miles west crew, Mulgrave was eventually towed
of Ireland. Many of the ship’s company October 23, 1942 - The Canadian to Portsmouth where she was declared
are survivors of HMCS Fraser’s sinking merchantman Canatco runs aground a constructive total loss.
HMCS Chebogue in June. in a storm off the southern Labrador
coast. The corvette HMCS Arrowhead October 14, 1944 - Off Pointe-des-
October 5, 1941 - The Canadian is able to rescue the entire crew. Monts, Quebec, the River class frigate
October 19, 1939 - The C Class merchantman Mondoc sinks mysteri- HMCS Magog loses approximately 50
destroyer HMS Kempenfelt is renamed ously in the Caribbean off Trinidad’s October 29, 1942 - A former Italian feet of her stern to an acoustic torpedo
HMCS Assiniboine at Davenport Ship- east coast after apparently striking a merchantman Capo Noli captured from U-1223. With a loss of three of
yard in England arriving in Halifax submerged object. No lives are lost. earlier in June of 1940 by HMCS Bras her crew, Magog is eventually towed
in late November. Just six years old, d’Or and reintroduced into Canadian to Quebec where she remains for the
she formed a part of the backbone of October 15, 1941 - The entire crew merchant service as Bic Island is sunk duration of the war after being declared
Canada’s fledgling Navy at the outset of 105 are lost when the large Canadian in the North Atlantic by U-624. All of a constructive total loss.
of the Second World War. Assiniboine merchantman Vancouver Island is tor- her Canadian crew is lost, but most
would go on to escort 25 convoys during pedoed and sunk by U-558 in the North heartbreaking of all is the fact that October 16, 1944 - River class frigate
the war. Atlantic. survivors of two sunken merchantman HMCS Annan and Loch class frigate
who Bic Island’s crew had rescued are HMCS Loch Achanalt destroy U-1006 off
October 12, 1940 - The French October 9, 1942 - U-69, operating lost as well. the Faroe Islands in the North Atlantic
merchant vessel Saint-Malo requisi- well inside Canadian waters in the St. after forcing it to the surface. Annan
tioned by the Government of Canada is Lawrence River, sinks the Canadian October 30, 1942 - A Douglas Digby would rescue 46 survivors from the
attacked and sunk by U-101 south of Ice- merchantman Carolus. HMC Ships of RCAF No. 10 Bomber Reconnais- submarine.
land while on convoy duty. Of a crew of Arrowhead and Hepatica rescue 19 of sance Squadron flying out of Gander,
44, only 16 survive. the crew of 30. Newfoundland and returning from October 25, 1944 - The first of two
a convoy patrol off the coast depth destroyers being built to Canadian
October 16, 1940 - Bound from October 11, 1942 - The Newfound- charges and sinks U-520. specifications (the other being HMCS
Parrsboro, Nova Scotia to Aberdeen, land merchantman Waterton is torpe- Saguenay), HMCS Skeena, in the thick
Scotland and sailing with convoy SC-7, doed and sunk in the Cabot Strait by October 31, 1943 - The Bangor class of things from the commencement of
the Canadian Laker Trevisa is torpe- U-106. The entire crew is rescued by the minesweeper HMCS Chedabucto and hostilities in 1939, suffers an irony of
doed and sunk south of Iceland by U-124 armed yacht HMCS Vision. the cable ship Lord Kelvin collide in war and grounds at Videy Island off
losing 7 of a crew of 21. Convoy SC-7 the evening fog off Rimouski, Quebec. Iceland’s southern coast in a gale. As
would lose 20 of 35 cargo vessels with October 14, 1942 - In the darkness Chedabucto, a minesweeper, is lost the destroyer is abandoned, 15 sailors
two more seriously damaged demon- of the early morning hours, the passen- along with one of her crew. perish.12 TRIDENT NEWS NOVEMBER 2, 2020
The Ferry SS Caribou was sunk by the German submarine U-69 on
October 13, 1942, only miles from its destination of Port-aux-Basques.
DND
When war came to Newfoundland:
The sinking of SS Caribou
By CPO1 (Ret’d) Pat Devenish,
Canadian Naval Memorial Trust
On an early morning in May of 1986, Newfoundlander and his crew, also within Canadian waters. It is for this submarine has gone to date. Just 4
the new ferry Caribou, on her maid- composed primarily of Newfound- reason that a minesweeper is tasked days prior, the Finnish merchantman
en voyage between North Sydney in landers, prepare to put their ship to with this escort duty. Unfortunately, Carolus is sunk less than 200 miles
Cape Breton and Port-aux-Basques, sea. Of the 191 passengers, 118 are in the Canadian Navy is almost pathet- downstream from Quebec City. This
Newfoundland, slows to a spot in the uniform enroute to their destinations ically unprepared for war because of night, the Captain of U-69 has chosen
Cabot Strait south of her Newfound- of duty. Of the remaining passengers, years of neglect since World War I. the Cabot Strait to surface in and in
land destination. It was at this spot in most are somehow involved in the war The Captain and crew of Grandmere the words of his log “…steaming to
October of 1942 that the first Caribou, effort, including wives and children prepare for their escort duties after and fro, cruising…”.
a Newfoundland registered passenger of serving members. As this is war, returning to North Sydney just 2 days On board Grandmere, Captain and
ferry plying the waters between North HMCS Grandmere, a ‘Bangor’ class after conducting depth charge attacks crew prepare for, what has been in the
Sydney and Port-aux-Basques, as it minesweeper is tasked with provid- on a suspected submarine in the Cabot past, a relatively uneventful transit. In
had been doing for the previous 17 ing escort duties. As Grandmere slips Strait which has sunk the British mer- her ten months in commission, most
years, became a victim of war. her moorings and proceeds to North chantman Waterton. of her career has been spent on coastal
Displacing 2200 tons, 265 feet long Sydney’s harbour mouth to conduct As in any tight knit colony, it is no escort duty although the crew is well
and loaded with 450 tons of cargo, 191 a customary sonar sweep, the crew of surprise that many of the crew on trained and primed for any eventu-
passengers and a crew of 46, Caribou Caribou prepares their human cargo Caribou are from common families. ality, they have never seen, let alone
was owned by the government-run for the normally serene 96-mile transit Two of Captain Taverner’s sons are fought, an enemy submarine.
Newfoundland Railway. She was an to Port-Aux-Basques. his Third and First Mates and there By 8:30 in the evening, passing
institution to the people of Newfound- Since the United States’ entry into are also eight pairs of brothers. Most through the submarine nets of Syd-
land and as Britain’s oldest colony, the war following the Japanese attack are from either Port-Aux-Basques ney Harbour, Caribou falls in behind
she reflected a common pride in New- on Pearl Harbour, German subma- or nearby from the tiny community Grandmere as Grandmere sounds the
foundland’s contribution in this, now rines have ventured daringly close of Channel. Although this seems to harbour approaches for enemy sub-
the third year of war. to land to conduct attacks on Allied overexpose one small community to marines. When complete, Grandmere
Although denoted as a passenger merchant shipping all along the war, there is a pride in Caribou’s crew falls in astern of Caribou to commence
ship, Caribou became a target in a eastern seaboard of the U.S., Canada unmatched. Recently refitted with the transit. Although Grandmere
game called war; a game where rules and Newfoundland. In the five months new propulsion and communication establishes a zig-zag pattern immedi-
exist but they do not exist. To a U-boat leading up to October 1942, U-boats equipment as well as improved life ately to cover as large an area as pos-
Captain and crew on a chilly, windy sunk 19 vessels either in or very close saving gear, Caribou and the people sible with her asdic, it is not deemed
autumn evening, a vessel not flying to the Gulf of the St. Lawrence River, who work her are as prepared for the necessary at this point in the war for
a German ensign was the enemy. A often within sight of the residents of eventuality of war as they can be. single escorted vessels to do the same.
culmination of events leading up to the coastal communities along the As the evening of October 13, 1942 As the pair head almost due north to a
the evening of October 13, 1942 and the shores. Although closed to ocean ship- settles in, the Captain and the crew of point off Cape Breton Island’s north-
early morning hours of the following ping, the Gulf area remained open for U-69 welcome the solitude and safety ern tip, passengers and crew on board
day brought home to the people of vessel transits between the Maritime of darkness as they carry on what Caribou are unusually fidgety on this
Newfoundland the harsh realities of Provinces and Newfoundland includ- has been a fairly successful patrol. very dark, moonless night. Records in-
war. ing passenger ferries. For the last month, ranging from the dicate that even in the dark, Caribou
By 8:00 p.m. on the evening of Due to overwhelming commitments Grand Banks off Newfoundland to just was visible out to 2500 yards and dis-
October 13, 1942, all passengers and for Trans-Atlantic escort duties, the south of Baltimore, Maryland, they playing very poor “smoke discipline”.
cargo are on board Caribou as her Canadian Navy is forced to relegate have ventured deeper into the Gulf of
Captain, Ben Taverner, a native its smaller warships for escort duties St. Lawrence than any other German Continued on page 1313 TRIDENT NEWS NOVEMBER 2, 2020 Wartime doctrine to the Captains is a moonless night, U-69 is not detect- this time, U-69 is well below the depth survivors, but by the time their radio of both vessels also present problems. able by lookouts on either ship. charge’s settings of 150 feet and the message is sent off, two more die. To the Caribou she must sail at night. Just before 3:25, a huge flash fills the submarine escapes to the safety of the Of the 240 passengers and crew Every crewmember knows that the sky as a torpedo fired at near point depths. aboard Caribou when she slipped the chances of being attacked in broad day- blank range from U-69 strikes Caribou Meanwhile in the waters around safety of Sydney harbour, there are light by a submarine are slim at best. midships just forward of the funnel. the location of the sinking, people are just 104 survivors. Of her 46 crew, just As well, even if there were an attack, In the fiery light of the explosion, the struggling and grappling for a position 15 are alive to recount the story. These the chances of finding survivors im- surfaced submarine is finally sighted in a life raft or boat and more people 15 do not include Captain Taverners prove greatly due entirely to the light by the lookouts on Grandmere and as drown or succumb to hypothermia in and his two sons, nor five of the eight of day. These, however are the rules as the distance is relatively short, Grand- the confusion as one of the life rafts re- pairs of brothers. set forth by the Naval Commander at mere heads straight for the submarine peatedly capsizes. Immediately below In the aftermath, a publicly de- the Western Approaches Headquarters in an attempt to ram. The torpedo has the survivors lurks U-69, her Captain manded inquiry found no fault with in Liverpool, England. An even more entered near Caribou’s machinery secure in the belief that the Captain of either the actions of Caribou’s crew unpleasant potential task faces the Cap- room and within seconds, she is dead the Grandmere will not depth charge nor with her life saving equipment. tain of Grandmere. His rules state that in the water and settling by the stern. this area. His gamble pays off as the Grandmere too escaped ridicule as if attacked by an enemy submarine, he By this time, the range between the submarine’’ logs report distant explo- she did what was expected “given the must press the attack until there seems submarine and Grandmere is down to sions indicating that Grandmere is circumstances”. Quietly and quickly little chance of the submarine’s sur- 350 yards and Grandmere’s Captain no longer detecting him. Also, due to however the Navy moved to eliminate viving. This may, and actually did on has full speed rung on to close the dis- the turmoil in the water, Grandmere’s night crossings for coastal traffic and several occasions during World War II, tance. The submarine begins settling asdic is rendered virtually useless. RAdm Leonard Murray, Commanding mean that an escort vessel would have as it commences a crash dive, forcing By 5:30 a.m., as the morning light be- Officer Atlantic Coast, informed the to sail amongst survivors dropping Grandmere to alter course to the sub- gins to splinter across the sky, Grand- Newfoundland Railway: “…in confi- depth charges. marine’s projected position so a depth mere’s Captain makes a decision to dence that the advantages of sailing To the north, southwest of Port- charge attack may be initiated. abandon the attack on the submarine at night are now outweighed by the aux-Basques, U-69 sits on the surface, Of Caribou’s six lifeboats, two are and concentrate on the survivors opportunities for rescue in day time batteries charged, crew well rested destroyed by the explosion from the from the Caribou. He has followed operations”. and prepared for a possible target that torpedo. Two more are rendered use- the Navy’s rules to hunt a submarine U-69 surfaced the following night may stray into the area. Little do they less when in the panic of the moment, until “there is little chance the enemy only to find aircraft and surface craft know that one is, as they unknowingly they are cut loose from the davits and is still around”. It has now been two still searching the area. Quietly but prepare for the eventuality. fall below to the sea. Only two boats hours since the survivors entered deliberately, U-69’s Captain made the By 3:30 a.m. on the morning of the on the port side make it into the water the water and fear spreads through decision to depart the area and get 14th, Caribou and her escort are 25 and they are overcrowded to the point Grandmere’s crew as they suspect as far away as possible by day break. miles south of Port-aux-Basques as of nearly sinking. Also in the water there will be no one found alive. Even U-69 was later sunk in the mid-Atlan- both crews prepare for their arrival are roughly a dozen rafts and carley by 6:30 a.m. with the assistance of a tic with the loss of all hands. in Port-aux-Basques. As the story is floats and passengers and crew still Canso flying boat out of Sydney, no Conclusion later told, twice Captain Taverners attempt to free up more from Cari- survivors are picked up and the fear The story of the Caribou is one ventures to Caribou’s stern and twice, bou’s upper deck. In the four minutes in Grandmere’s crew turns to dread. which touched the hearts of all New- he fails to see Grandmere, but as re- of terror and panic from the time of Finally around 7 a.m., survivors are foundlanders at the time. Even today, cords indicate, she is there. U-69’s log the torpedo strike to Caribou’s demise sighted and the crew of Grandmere mention of it sparks memories and indicates, with her initial sighting at as she sinks below the waves about is rejuvenated. There is unselfish stories passed on seemingly so long 3:21, two ships; a larger one ahead and two-thirds of the passengers and crew heroism on the part of many of Grand- ago by older relatives. For more infor- an escort astern: Grandmere. As U-69 safely make it off. mere’s crew as they jump into the icy mation on this story, I highly recom- approaches from amidships of Cari- As Caribou slides to a watery grave waters themselves to rescue survivors mend Douglas How’s book “Night of bou, Grandmere is unable to detect as 1500 feet below, Grandmere continues and by 9:40 a.m., four other Naval the Caribou” or if you feel you don’t the sounds of Caribou’s own propel- a gradual turn to starboard arriving vessels and another aircraft are in the have time to read the book, Reader’s lors drown out everything else to the at a spot just ahead of the swirling vicinity. With every available space Digest has the condensed version in hydrophone operators on Grandmere. wake of U-69’s dive to drop a diamond filled with survivors, Grandmere it’s Book Section of the October 1992 Also, as she is low in the water and it pattern of depth charges. However, by turns and heads for Sydney with 106 edition. The reasons we remember By CPO1 (Ret’d) Patrick Devenish Canadian Naval Memorial Trust May of this year marked the 75th think about what they and their com- for a waning strength and will to also a decorated veteran of the Sec- anniversary of the end of the Second rades who survived endured? I recall resurrect until time’s intervention ond World War. He served in North World War. Though Remembrance as a young child being mesmerized brings a desire for the exhumation.” Africa, Sicily and Italy, including the Day is a celebration of the lives and by my own father’s tales of wartime As a child, these tales seemed glorious street fighting of Ortona in a 3” mortar the commitments of all of Canada’s experience (my favourite was always and fascinating; like watching a war platoon with the Hastings and Prince fighting Forces over the course of his- the one about him and a few buddies movie. These experiences we read Edward Regiment. He then served in tory, a quick look at Canadian involve- stealing a German half-track and a about in historical accounts however, France, Holland and Belgium follow- ment in WWII provides a glimpse of case of wine and racing through fields are different; they are real. We should ing the rapid advances after D-Day. what this country can, and will, do in somewhere in Italy!). It is comforting never forget that, and we should tell When Canadian Forces were diverted a time of crisis. that the human mind can recall events more people about it. north away from Germany in 1945, Many Canadians do not realize the such as this through all the death and As a peek into the life of a veteran, he was involved in the liberation of extent of Canada’s contribution, and destruction. I relate to you the story of one. His a starving Dutch population. He was as we are slowly losing that genera- As Farley Mowat recalled in The name was Edmund Devenish and he wounded twice; once by sniper fire tion of veterans, their sacrifice seems Regiment: “It is not until long after passed in 2000 amidst little fanfare, and once from shrapnel, but never to be getting buried deeper and deeper peace that soldier’s memories of war with only family and a simple Legion did he allow his horrific past to taint in our history. Each year, on Novem- really begin to live. While war still Honour Guard at his side. neither his life nor the lives of his ber 11, we remember all of Canada’s lasts, the new events bury the old with Aside from being “the” best father children. war dead, but do we really sit and terrifying swiftness and too deeply (yes, we all say that), my father was
You can also read
