RCR_Pro_Patria_BK_2020_WEB

Pro Patria 2020 Regimental Journal of The Royal Canadian Regiment



PRO PATRIA June 2020, Issue 102 Editor Captain Scott Robinson Layout & Design: Lisa Twomey, Creative Spark Graphic Design [email protected] For information about receiving PRO PATRIA, joining The RCR Association, or to request a change of address, please direct correspondence to: Regimental Adjutant, RHQ, The RCR Victoria Barracks PO Box 9999, Stn Main Petawawa, ON, K8H 2X3 Phone: (613) 687-5511, ext 5086 Facsimile: (613) 588-5932 Email: [email protected] [ 3  PRO PATRIA 2020 ]

PRO PATRIA 2020 Issue 102 Front Cover Photo – Mike Company, 3 RCR, soldiers crew a C6. Photo credit: Cpl Edweard Scally – IM NCO, 3RCR Rear Cover Photo - “Heading Home” The Royal Canadians of Op PROTEUS Roto 20, July 2020, outside their residence in the disputed territory of East Jerusalem. L to R (Maj Andy McGregor, LCol Piers Pappin, BGen Peter Scott, Maj Matt Coughlin, Capt Mark Spears). Photo Credit: MCpl Carl Boland – Op PROTEUS National Support Element (NSE) IT [ 4  PRO PATRIA 2020 ]

CONTENTS Colonel of the Regiment ..................................................................................... 7 Senior Serving Royal Canadian ........................................................................... 8 Regimental Council ............................................................................................. 9 Battle Honours ................................................................................................... 11 Departed Comrades ...........................................................................................12 Regimental Mentors .......................................................................................... 15 1 RCR ................................................................................................................. 16 2 RCR ................................................................................................................. 26 3 RCR ................................................................................................................. 56 4 RCR ................................................................................................................. 74 4 CDTC .............................................................................................................. 83 4 DivHQ...............................................................................................................88 Atlantic................................................................................................................89 [ 5  PRO PATRIA 2020 ]

Infantry School ....................................................................................................96 RCR Officers Badging .......................................................................................100 CJOC ................................................................................................................101 OP Impact ........................................................................................................102 OIR ...................................................................................................................105 3DivTC ..............................................................................................................109 Cadets ..............................................................................................................112 The RCR Association ....................................................................................... 118 The RCR Museum .............................................................................................135 Individual Submission: Some RCR Tales: Submitted during the COVID-19 Confinement to Barracks ..................................................................................146 Forms ............................................................................................................... 172 The Last Word ................................................................................................. 186 [ 6  PRO PATRIA 2020 ]

COLONEL OF THE REGIMENT Fellow Royal Canadians, Thank you for your continued support while I represent you as your Colonel of the Regiment. During the past year I have followed your many challenges and unparalleled successes as Task Forces and individuals continue to deploy to and return from numerous missions. They have continued to serve and represent the people of Canada to the high standard of professionalism that the regiment and the soldiers of the past are renowned. As I was unable to attend many in-person regimental The Right-Honourable D. L. Johnston, and Canadian Forces functions in 2020 due to the CC, CMM, COM, CD pandemic I did not meet as many people as I would have liked. I corresponded with many present and former serving members of the regiment who communicated to me with pride about their accomplishments. I hear stories from their exploits in Bosnia, Afghanistan, Iraq, Ukraine, Latvia, and many other of the worlds past and present hot spots. I continue to be humbled by the outstanding work and accomplishments of the soldiers, both past and present, that make the world a better place to live. I am also heartened to hear stories of how members of the regiment are freely giving their time to support others who have been injured while in the service of this great country. They are an inspiration to the rest of us. Members of The RCR planned and assisted with OP LASER for much of 2020, and continue to do so. The members of the regiment should be proud of the way they conducted themselves both on and off duty during this global pandemic. They continued to assist their neighbours and anyone in need while the world struggled to cope with the situation. Royal Canadians were also involved in OP GLOBE, enabling the repatriation of all Canadians from around the globe to Canadian soil. While these operations were being conducted we continued to deploy many people to key leadership positions for multiple tours around the world’s hot spots. As I conclude my duties as Colonel of the Regiment I will remember with great fondness the people I have met. In the future I will continue to champion the CAF and especially members of The RCR. I look forward to resume meeting with members of the regimental family and sharing their experiences. Pro Patria! [ 7  PRO PATRIA 2020 ]

SENIOR SERVING ROYAL CANADIAN Fellow Royal Canadians, In 2020, we continued to add to our regiment’s proud history of service to Canada. Members of The RCR have a lot to celebrate and build upon as the senior regular force infantry regiment. The Regiment conducted Change of Command and Appointment of RSMs for 1 RCR, 3 RCR and 4 RCR. Members of The Regiment assumed command positions in a number of schools and other units during LGen Whelan, OMM, MSC, MSM, CD the year demonstrating that the CAF recognizes the professionalism The RCR provides. The Regiment was represented by individuals, small units, and Task Forces during the year on several operations with pride and distinction. These members held the regimental slogan, ‘Never Pass a Fault’ to the highest standard and were an example to their fellow soldiers. All battalions deployed soldiers in Ontario, Quebec, and New Brunswick during OP LASER and OP GLOBE as part of the CAF response to the global pandemic in those provinces. Individuals on ERE posting assisted the people of Canada in their area to aid local authorities. Our regiment deployed soldiers to the high arctic on exercise to work with the Canadian Rangers while displaying Canada’s commitment to arctic defense. The units conducted relevant and extraordinary training to ensure our soldiers were able to complete all assigned tasks to the highest standards. On numerous occasions the regular force worked with and trained reserve units in their divisional areas. These opportunities were used to ensure the expertise and ideals that personify a Royal Canadian were conveyed to all those in attendance. Regimental members and association branches met, in various manners, on a regular basis for camaraderie, to celebrate the regiments past achievements, and to continue the regimental tradition of looking after each other. Paardeberg, Pachino, and the Regimental Birthday were commemorated with local functions and companionship by all units and association branches, usually in the virtual world. Thank you all for your professionalism and service to Canada. Your service and commitment to duty is noted, and very much appreciated. “Pro Patria” [ 8  PRO PATRIA 2020 ]

THE ROYAL CANADIAN REGIMENT COUNCIL THE REGIMENTAL SENATE Appointment As of December 2020 As of printing June 2021 Chair MGen S.J.R. Whelan, OMM, MSC, MSM, CD LGen Whelan, OMM, MSC, MSM, CD Regimental Secretary LCol J.N.E. Pellicano, CD LCol J.N.E. Pellicano, CD Members The Right Honourable David Lloyd Johnston, The Right Honourable David Lloyd Johnston, Colonel of The Regiment CC, CMM, COM, CD CC, CMM, COM, CD Former Colonels of The Regiment MGen J.I. Fenton, OMM, CD (Ret’d) MGen J.I. Fenton, OMM, CD (Ret’d) Col W.J. Aitchison, OMM, CD (Ret’d) Col W.J. Aitchison, OMM, CD (Ret’d) MGen W.M. Holmes, MStJ, MSM, CD, MBE (Ret’d) MGen W.M. Holmes, MStJ,MSM,CD,MBE(Ret’d) MGen T.F. de Faye, CMM, CD (Ret’d) MGen T.F. de Faye, CMM, CD (Ret’d) Honorary Lieutenant-Colonel 4 RCR Hon LCol B. Burnham Hon LCol B. Burnham LGen S.J.R. Whelan, OMM, MSC, MSM, CD Serving General Officers of The RCR Gen J.H. Vance, CMM, MSC, CD LGen O.H. Lavoie, CMM, MSC, CD LGen O.H. Lavoie, CMM, MSC, CD MGen D.C. Aitchison, CD MGen S.J.R. Whelan, OMM, MSC, MSM, CD MGen C.J.J. Mialkowski, OMM, MSC, CD MGen D.C. Aitchison, CD BGen M.E.K. Campbell, CD BGen M.E.K. Campbell, CD BGen G.R. Smith, MSM, CD BGen G.R. Smith, MSM, CD BGen P.K. Scott, CD BGen C.J.J. Mialkowski, MSM, CD BGen C.I. Oberwarth, MSM, CD BGen P.K. Scott, CD Col J.D.V. Vass, CD Col B.F. Healey, CD Chairperson REC Col J.D.V. Vass, CD Col A.D. McQuarrie, CD (Ret’d) Mr John Mombourquette Regimental Colonel Col S.R. Murphy, CD Col N.M. Pettis, CD (Ret’d) CWO T.K. Verner, MMM, MSM, CD Chairperson The RCR Association Col A.D. McQuarrie, CD (Ret’d) LGen O.H. Lavoie, CMM, MSC, CD CWO K.M. Olstad, MMM, MSM, CD Chairperson the Museum Board of Directors Mr John Mombourquette As of printing June 2021 Chairperson The RCR Trust Col T. Tarrant, CD (Ret’d) Col J.D.V. Vass, CD LCol J.N.E. Pellicano, CD Regimental Chief Warrant Officer CWO K.M. Olstad, MMM, MSM, CD Col B.F. Healey, CD Immediate Past Chair of the Senate LGen O.H. Lavoie, CMM, MSC, CD LCol J.D. Summerfield, CD Immediate Past RCWO CWO S.G. Hartnell, MMM, MSM, CD LCol T.A.D. Norton, CD LCol B.J.L. Irvine, CD Any other persons appointed by the Chair of the Regimental Senate LCol P.J. Reintjes, CD Col N.M. Pettis, CD (Ret’d) THE REGIMENTAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Appointment As of December 2020 Chairperson Col J.D.V. Vass, CD Regimental Secretary LCol J.N.E. Pellicano, CD Members Regimental Colonel Col S.R. Murphy, CD CO 1 RCR LCol J.D. Summerfield, CD CO 2 RCR LCol T.A.D. Norton, CD CO 3 RCR LCol B.J.L. Irvine, CD CO 4 RCR LCol P.J. Reintjes, CD Chairperson The RCR Trust Fund Col T. Tarrant, CD (Ret’d) [ 9  PRO PATRIA 2020 ]

THE REGIMENTAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE ... CONTINUED Appointment As of December 2020 As of printing June 2021 Col A.D. McQuarrie, CD (Ret’d) Chairperson of The RCR Association Col A.D. McQuarrie, CD (Ret’d) CWO T.K. Verner, MMM, MSM, CD CWO D.J. Crawford, CD RCWO CWO K.M. Olstad, MMM, MSM, CD CWO M.D. Anderson, CD RSM 1 RCR CWO D.J. Crawford, CD CWO M.J. Martens, MMM, CD CWO R.S. Morris, CD RSM 2 RCR CWO M.D. Anderson, CD Capt S.B. Neville, CD Capt S.S. Robinson, MMM, CD RSM 3 RCR CWO M.J. Martens, MMM, CD As of printing June 2021 RSM 4 RCR CWO R.S. Morris, CD Col N. M. Pettis, CD (Ret’d) MWO R. Hills, MMM, CD (Ret’d) Treasurer – Regimental Major Capt S.B. Neville, CD Maj W.D.O. Nolan, OMM, CD (Ret’d) Maj G.L. Shellington, CD (Ret’d) Secretary – Regimental Adjutant Capt S.S. Robinson, MMM, CD CWO E. Christensen, CD (Ret’d) Mr John Mombourquette Any other persons appointed by the Chair of the REC Maj M. Twohey, CD (Ret’d) NON-GOVERNING BODIES WITHIN THE REGIMENT LCol J.N.E. Pellicano, CD Capt S.B. Neville, CD THE RCR TRUST As of December 2020 Appointment Col T. Tarrant, CD (Ret’d) As of printing June 2021 Chairman MWO R. Hills, MMM, CD (Ret’d) Mr John Mombourquette Maj W.D.O. Nolan, OMM, CD (Ret’d) Col W.J. Pettipas, CD (Ret’d) Vice-Chairman Maj G.L. Shellington, CD (Ret’d) LCol J.N.E. Pellicano, CD CWO E. Christensen, CD (Ret’d) Capt S.B. Neville, CD Treasurer CWO T.K. Verner, MMM, MSM, CD Col N.M. Pettis, CD (Ret’d) Secretary Dr. Georgiana Stanciu LCol P. Reintjes, CD Trustee RCR Association – ex officio Prof. J.F.W. Vance Dr. A.J. Sendzikas Trustee – The RCR Museum – ex officio Mr John Mombourquette Maj M. Twohey, CD (Ret’d) BGen Gary O’Brien, OMM, CD (Ret’d) Trustee Col N.M. Pettis, CD (Ret’d) Trustee Maj M. Twohey, CD (Ret’d) Trustee - Regimental Secretary – ex officio LCol J.N.E. Pellicano, CD Trustee - Regimental Major – ex officio Capt S.B. Neville, CD THE RCR MUSEUM BOARD As of December 2020 Appointment Mr John Mombourquette Chairman Col W.J. Pettipas, CD (Ret’d) Honorary LCol 4 RCR – ex officio Regimental Secretary – ex officio LCol J.N.E. Pellicano, CD Regimental Major – ex officio Capt S.B. Neville, CD Regimental Chief Warrant Officer – ex officio CWO K.M. Olstad, MMM, MSM, CD Chairman Trust – ex officio Col T. Tarrant, CD (Ret’d) Secretary, Director/Curator Dr. Georgiana Stanciu Members CO 4 RCR LCol P. Reintjes, CD Prof. J.F.W. Vance Dr. A.J. Sendzikas Maj M. Twohey, CD (Ret’d) BGen Gary O’Brien, OMM, CD (Ret’d) [ 10  PRO PATRIA 2020 ]

The Royal Canadian Regiment BATTLE HONOURS (The battle honours in bold are entitled to be borne on the Regimental Colour of each Battalion.) Detroit Scarpe, 1917, 1918 San Leonardo Niagara Hill 70 The Gully Defence of Canada, 1812-15 Ortona Saskatchewan Passchendaele Cassino II North-West Canada, 1885 Amiens Gustav Line Paardeberg Liri Valley South Africa, 1899-1900 Drocourt -Queant Hitler Line Ypres 1915, 1917 Hindenburg Line Gravenstafel Gothic Line St. Julien Canal du Nord Lamone Crossing Festubert, 1915 Cambrai, 1918 Mount Sorrel Pursuit to Mons Misano Ridge Somme, 1916 France & Flanders, 1915-18 Rimini Line Pozieres Landing in Sicily San Martino-San Lorenzo Flers-Courcelette Ancre Heights Valguarnera Pisciatello Arras 1917, 1918 Agira Fosso Vecchio Vimy 1917 Adrano Italy, 1943-1945 Arleux Regalbuto Apeldoorn Sicily 1943 North-West Europe, 1945 Landing at Reggio Motta Montecorvino Korea, 1951-1953 Campobasso Afghanistan Torella Colonel-in-Chief: Field Marshall HRH The Prince Philip Duke of Edinburgh, KG, KT, OM, OIM, GBE, ID, AC, ONZ, QSO, GCL, CC, CMM, CD, PC Colonel of the Regiment: The Right Honourable David Johnston, PC, CC, CMM, COM, CD Allied with: The Rifles The Royal Regiment of Fusiliers The Jamaica Regiment NB. Afghanistan will be emblazoned on future Regimental Colours [ 11  PRO PATRIA 2020 ]

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Departed Comrades of The RCR - 2020 Arthur Wayne Abbott Ret'd Stratford, ON 2 Jan 2020 Matthew Whelan 2 RCR Oromocto, NB 4 Jan 2020 Niagara Falls, ON 11 Jan 2020 Murdock \"Nick\" Ross Ret'd New Glasgow, NS 12 Jan 2020 William 'Willie' Marciport Ret'd Deep River, ON 25 Jan 2020 Russell Robert \"Bob\" Semple Ret'd 13 Feb 2020 Robert L. \"Bob\" Walton Ret'd Surrey, BC 2 Mar 2020 Lindsay, ON 4 Mar 2020 Doug Pollock Ret'd North Alton, NS 7 Mar 2020 Don Cyr Ret'd Barry's Bay, ON 8 Mar 2020 Digby, NS 3 Apr 2020 John Landon Ret'd Trenton, ON 13 Apr 2020 Gerald Peter \"Gerry\" Robicheau Ret'd Aylesford, NS 23 Apr 2020 Oromocto, NB 24 Apr 2020 Steve McGuire Ret'd London, ON 3 May 2020 John James Hampsey Ret'd Dartmouth, NS 16 May 2020 Terence \"Terry\" Marsdon Dexter Ret'd Victoria, BC 17 May 2020 Kenneth Albert Tanswell Ret'd Dartmouth, NS 19 May 2020 Ottawa, ON 19 May 2020 Pat Embree Ret'd Werribee Victoria, Charles Gordon Owen Ret'd 23 May 2020 Kyle James Isaac Parker Ret'd Australia 24 May 2020 Gerald Reidy \"Gerry\" Bowen Ret'd Stoney Creek, ON 3 Jun 2020 Gerald Philips \"Gerry\" Steacy Ret'd 6 Jun 2020 Falmouth, NS 16 Jun 2020 Alan Douglas King Ret'd Courtice, ON 19 Jun 2020 Robert Michael Charles “Soup” Campbell Ret'd London, ON 21 Jun 2020 Kingston, ON 23 Jun 2020 Richard \"Dick\" Bailey Ret'd Senneterre, QC Stan Wheeler Ret'd Ottawa, ON 1 Jul 2020 Hamilton, ON 1 Jul 2020 Richard \"Rick\" Bernard McDonald Ret'd Trenton, ON 2 Jul 2020 Daniel Chapman Ret'd Belleville, ON 7 Jul 2020 Donald Richard Squires Ret'd Sidney, BC Bruce Spencer Post Jeffery Ret'd Glace Bay, NS Ron Denham Ret'd Ronald Denham Ret'd Thomas James Paterson Ret'd Murray William “Pinky” Burrows Ret'd [ 13  PRO PATRIA 2020 ]

Joseph “Frank” Francis Stubbert Ret'd Lawrencetown, NS 7 Jul 2020 John C Langford Ret'd Sugar Camp, NS 15 Jul 2020 James A Crowther Ret'd 2 Aug 2020 Petawawa ON 9 Aug 2020 Ralph Frederick Haddrall Ret'd Kingston, ON 16 Aug 2020 Kenneth Joseph William Reeves Ret'd Toronto, ON 19 Aug 2020 London, ON 8 Sep 2020 Gary Wayne Mulholland Ret'd Glace Bay, NS 27 Sep 2020 Michael Richard Skinner Ret'd Bras d'Or, NS 30 Sep 2020 Petawawa, ON 30 Sep 2020 Ernest H King Ret'd Charlettown, PEI 14 Oct 2020 John Green Ret'd Deep River, ON 16 Oct 2020 Charles 'Chuck' Bachmanek Ret'd Petawawa, ON 24 Oct 2020 Herman Williams 1 RCR 28 Oct 2020 William Henry 'Harry' MacDougall Ret'd Barrie, ON 22 Nov 2020 Jack Stringer Ret'd Kingston, ON 24 Nov 2020 William Albert “Bill” Leavey Ret'd Almonte, ON 29 Nov 2020 Bruce Proper Ret'd Toronto, ON 30 Nov 2020 Derek Abdullah Nasir Salick Ret'd Fredericton, NB 4 Dec 2020 John Roland Harper Ret'd Strathroy, ON 12 Dec 2020 John Fuller Ret'd London, ON 14 Dec 2020 Bryan R Normand Ret'd 23 Dec 2020 Stanley Eugene “Stan” Lowther Ret'd Halifax, NS 23 Dec 2020 George Victor Steeves Ret'd West Kelowna, BC Glendon Kennedy Ret'd Karl Dow 'KD' Mackenzie Ret'd Kingston, ON Pictou, NS [ 14  PRO PATRIA 2020 ]

REGIMENTAL MENTORS Regimental Mentors (typically Lieutenant-Colonels), Assistant Mentors (typically Majors or Captains), and Other Rank Mentors (typically Chief Warrant Officers or Master Warrant Officers) will be appointed by the Regimental Colonel (currently Colonel Brian Healey) and directed to maintain a system of personal communication with each member of the Regiment on the list provided to the Mentors annually by the Regimental Colonel. Mentorship will be based on the most logical mix of geography and organizational criteria such that all members of The Regiment and especially those on Extra-Regimental Employment (ERE) have a mentor who is accessible and who understands the particular working environment of the member. Where the workload demands it, additional Assistant Mentors may be appointed to handle specific geographic areas, units or circumstances. Unit Mentors will be the Commanding Officer and Regimental Sergeant-Major. The whole system of Regimental Mentors is presided over by the Regimental Colonel, with assistance from the Deputy Regimental Colonel (LCol Sean French) and the Regimental Chief Warrant Officer (CWO Tom Verner). The Royal Canadian Regiment has Mentors located across the country and internationally. Visit the Regimental Website at www.thercr.ca or contact Regimental Headquarters to confirm who the Mentor in your area is currently. MENTOR REGIONS and UNITS Current as of October 2020 1. 1 st Battalion The Royal Canadian Regiment: LCol John Summerfield; CWO Don Crawford. 2. 2 nd Battalion The Royal Canadian Regiment: LCol Trevor Norton; CWO Darryl Anderson. 3. 3rd Battalion The Royal Canadian Regiment: LCol Ben Irvine; CWO Mike Martens. 4. 4th Battalion The Royal Canadian Regiment: LCol Pete Reintjes, CWO Raymond Morris. 5. Petawawa/Quebec: CWO Eric Green; MWO Pat Murphy. 6. O ntario: Toronto and Southern Ontario - LCol Dave Fearon; Kingston/Trenton – LCol Aaron Luhning; Southern Ontario - CWO Mike Hawthorne; MWO Barry Eddy; Trenton, North Bay, Sudbury and Timmins - CWO Tom Jones; MWO Barry Eddy; Meaford - MWO Anthony Jones; MWO Ross Lewis. 7. NCR and Quebec: LCol Rich Tarrant. NCR: CWO Rick Yuskiw; MWO Liam McGlynn 8. Atlantic Canada: LCol Mike Blanchette; CWO Vlad Zalik; MWO Harvey Flowers. 9. Northern and Western Canada: LCol Greg Vander Kloet; CWO Ian Bennett; MWO Shane Speed. 10. CANSOFCOM: LCol David Suffoletta 11. USA: Maj Jon Cox 12. Other Internationally Posted Personnel (including the UK and Europe): LCol Sean French (Deputy Regimental Colonel); and CWO Keith Olstad (Regimental Chief Warrant Officer). [ 15  PRO PATRIA 2020 ]

1st Battalion The Royal Canadian Regiment LCol J.D. Summerfield, CD THE DUKE’S AND CHARLES COMPANY 1 RCR Key Appointments: CWO D.J. Crawford, CD The Duke’s Company OC – Maj Duncan 2IC – Capt Peacock CSM – MWO Curtis CQ – WO Miltimore Charles Company OC – Major Duncan 2IC – Capt Peacock CSM – MWO McTaggart CQ – WO Whittaker JANUARY – MAY – EX MAPLE RESOLVE, COVID AN1D RRECTRURN TO WORK Written by Lt Dan Ortega, 8 Platoon Commander, Charles Company, 1 RCR In January 2020, The Duke’s and Charles Companies began preparing for the Bde level exercise MAPLE RESOLVE 20 in Wainwright AB. The company leadership sharpened their planning and tactical skills on CMXs UNIFIED RESOLVE II and III in January and February. In addition to the CMXs, Duke’s conducted training with 436 Helicopter Sqn out of Borden to practice Tactical Air Landing Operations. However, as the COVID-19 pandemic developed, Ex MAPLE RESOLVE was cancelled and the majority of the Bn was ordered to self-isolate in mid-March. Throughout the early months of this pandemic, The Duke’s and Charles Company maintained contact with their personnel virtually [ 16  PRO PATRIA 2020 ]

Left: Sgt Majewski conducts training during the Tactical Air Landing Ops with The Duke’s Coy. Right: 9 Pl Comd Lt Lapointe (center) supervises troops during the conduct of Helicopter Underslung and conducted organized leadership runs where the OC and Pl Comds would jog around the PMQs and conduct wellness checks on their soldiers while following social distancing and force health protection measures. This routine continued through April and May, until the Bn reorganization occurred, which required The Duke’s and Charles Companies to reinforce Bravo Coy in preparation for their deployment to Latvia on Op REASSURANCE. OPERATOR TRAINING June – September – Bn IBTS Exercises, and Solider Skills Enhancement Training Upon completing the Bn reorganization, The Duke’s and Charles Coy merged together under Maj Duncan. In June, 1 RCR began conducting decentralized training, which saw soldiers from The Duke’s and Charles Coy conduct a Pl level Air Mobile Raid under the command of 3 Pl Comd Lt Corrigan supported by 2 x CH-147 from 450 Tactical Helicopter Squadron. In accordance with the COVID Force Health Protection Measures, Bn training requirements and IRU, the company conducted Pl level road moves, vehicle and equipment maintenance, before taking summer leave. In July, both The Duke’s and Charles began focussing on conducting core infantry skills up to the section level. This training included conducting C7, 9mm, shotgun and machine gun ranges, navigation exercises, night operations, platoon lectures on convoy drills, ambushes, raids and hasty attacks in order to redevelop soldier skills while also preparing them for more complex training. This training ran until August, culminating in a Bn gun camp, which concentrated on enhancing the confidence of soldiers with their SOPs and weapon drills. SEPTEMBER – DECEMBER –LVL 3 AND EL 4 LIVE FIRE RANGES, EX MOOSE ONSLAUGHT In preparation for the task of building, proving and running Bravo Coy through Platoon and Company level live fire ranges, The Duke’s and Charles Coy completed their pairs and section level live fire, in addition to a shooting training session where CSOR personnel instructed [ 17  PRO PATRIA 2020 ]

1 RCR soldiers through enhanced shooting drills. This enabled the platoons to start solidifying their section and platoon SOPs and conduct some collective training in order to prepare themselves for the platoon leadership validation live fire ranges. Upon successful completion of the platoon ranges, the Companies immediately shifted Clockwise from top left: Pte Griffin practices navigation skills with a focus to the enhanced level 4 live fire range. DAGR during Charles Dukes decentralized training This range was an 18 Km live fire trace that ARSO’s maintain safety through the Enhanced Level 4 break-in to included live HE and smoke artillery, UAV surveillance, combat divers, explosive wire the trench system as seen through MNVGs. breaching, ammo cache destruction, and ARSOs from Charles Coy keep watch from the FireBase as troops trench clearance operations which included conduct a Company flanking on the Enhanced Level 4 live fire a subterranean communication trench. This attacks in November. range offered Bravo Coy and the rest of the RCD BG enablers with a full spectrum 1 RCR troops with the Algonquin Regiment in Burwash, ON at the of training, which was an exceptionally conclusion of Ex MOOSE ONSLAUGHT challenging and realistic combined arms training exercise. The PTA conducted 4 iterations of this range, completing 2 days of a full day iteration with a range reset and then moving into a night iteration. Additionally, during this period, 1 RCR received a batch of newly qualified infantry officers that were immediately utilized as supplementary range safety staff for the enhanced level 4 range. Following the consolidation of these ranges, The Duke’s and Charles Coy supported Ex MOOSE ONSLAUGHT with The Algonquin Regiment. This saw 1 RCR troops led by 7 Pl [ 18  PRO PATRIA 2020 ]

Comd Lt Dagg integrate 4 x LAV 6.0 with their FTX in Burwash, Ontario, which increased their understanding of the LAV’s capabilities and mechanized infantry operations. To close out the year, in December The Duke’s and Charles Coy participated in socially distanced physical activities and competition live fire ranges, before conducting Bn annual briefs through a virtual platform and beginning winter holiday leave. BRAVO COMPANY Although 2020 and the emergence of COVID-19 brought unique challenges, Bravo Company continued to build and strengthen our team as we prepared for our deployment to Latvia. The company seized every opportunity to train in Winter Warfare, dismounted and mechanized operations, and urban operations, culminating with a company live fire exercise. Soldiers truly got to experience what it is like to be part of a mechanized company and will no doubt represent Canada overseas with the highest level of professionalism and competence. Below, you will have the opportunity to read some of the opportunities Bravo Company’s soldiers had throughout this year. These stories are all written by our soldiers in order to better represent their experiences. BRAVO COY BASIC WINTER WARFARE: 18 FEBRUARY 20 – 21 FEBRUARY 20 Written by Corporal J.M.M. Ross and Corporal L.E.H. Wallace, 6 Platoon, Bravo Company Bravo Company conducted Basic Winter Warfare training in Petawawa, Ontario. The purpose of this event was to train soldiers in winter survival as well as conducting operations in a winter environment. Soldiers were taught how to properly use winter kit as well as proper techniques for layering winter clothing in order to allow for long term survival in a winter environment. We learned how to use and shelter in 10 man tents with small gas stoves and lanterns to keep us warm at night. Additionally, we practiced night routine conducting a “stove watch” so that the shelters were maintained at a comfortable temperature throughout the night. This allowed us to achieve optimal learning and training throughout the day. Snow shoes are an important piece of kit in winter warfare and Bravo Company got extensive experience using them. This was an interesting experience for new soldiers who have not used them before. We trained in firing positions and tactical movement with snow shoes to assure that we were able to fight in deep snow. Bravo Company also learned about winter survival by building and sleeping in improvised shelters. The shelters were made from snow and other available materials such as branches, pine boughs, para cord and reflective survival blankets. This was good training for the troops as it is not only an essential part of winter survival but also winter operations. Soldiers learned how to make a proper fire pit in the winter. They learned the proper volumes of wood needed to start a fire as well as for long-term sustainment. The company also learned about multiple fire starting methods such as flint and steel, battery and steel wool and friction based methods. In order to start a fire, it was also essential to learn how to find [ 19  PRO PATRIA 2020 ]

and source different kinds of tinder and kindling for optimum efficiency. Cooking in a winter survival situation was also covered by the platoon leadership. Being able to prepare and cook food on a fire is very important to staying warm and keeping the body fueled to sustain winter operations. We had the opportunity to prepare meals over fires that we built to ensure we would be self-sufficient in a winter environment if necessary and we also boiled water from snow in order to stay hydrated in a winter environment to avoid lowering our core body temperature. Bravo Company additionally learned how to acquire food including small game animals. Topics such as how to properly set bait and check snares, along with proper cleaning techniques for rabbits and other such small animals were covered. In emergency situations, we would not only be able to survive, but thrive in order to carry out further operations when rescued from a survival scenario. Overall, this training was of great benefit to Bravo Company. The troops have gone on to successfully work and train in winter environments. The skills acquired from this course have been applied by the individuals to better advance their own training and field craft. EX ROYAL FORGE: 07 SEPTEMBER 2020 – 18 SEPTEMBER 2020 Written by Corporal C.J.L. Doucette, 4 Platoon, Bravo Company The LAV 6.0 rumbles as it cruises down the track. The turret whirs as it tracks onto the first target. Crammed into the back, I listen with the rest of the section as the crew commander calls out the order to fire. Adrenaline surges as the 25 mm cannon sends out its first volley. It’s the first time I’ve ever heard a LAV open fire. It is also the first mounted section attack I’ve ever seen and going to be a part of. As the ramp drops and the section surges out onto the field, Ex ROYAL FORGE has begun. In preparation for deploying to Latvia for Op REASSURANCE, the newly formed Bravo Company came together to face its first real challenge, conducting mounted live fire section attacks at CFB Meaford in September of 2020. It was here that the newly formed sections and platoons were tested, quickly learning to work together and conquer an objective with skill, ferocity, and determination. It had only been a month since the company was formed. While some had been in the company for years, others were new additions. Twenty-two of these soldiers, including myself, were infantry reservists called from Southern Ontario to prepare for the upcoming deployment. Like many of them, I showed up to 1 RCR without even knowing how to drop the ramp on a LAV 6.0. By the end of the exercise, however, I was becoming familiar with the nuances of the mechanized lifestyle. Eating, gearing up, planning, and communicating, all on the move and relying on a tightly knit group of section members were all lessons that needed to quickly be learnt. The LAV 6.0 was the central point of our training; not only fighting out of it, but living in it. It’s a fast, effective means by which to deliver firepower onto the battlefield, but it can be a fickle beast as well. It quickly punishes those who pack too bulky a rucksack, leave the back of the boat untidy or become a little too complacent standing in the air sentry hatch. But for those of us who learned to adapt to the nuances of this way of fighting, the rewards were great. [ 20  PRO PATRIA 2019 ]

Over the course of the eleven days, each section conducted two daytime section attacks and two at night. For one of the daytime iterations a structure was built and put into play that we had to clear. It offered a dynamic element that forced us to quickly adapt and work as a team. However, we did more than mounted section attacks. We also carried out a dismounted night raid on an enemy vehicle checkpoint. After working with the LAVs so intently for the prior week, we now found ourselves relying on something else new to us; each other. Through a night of bugs, poison ivy, sudden cold, thorny thickets and hidden puddles, 4 Platoon pushed forward stolidly towards our target. Even with the help of our night vision goggles, it was hard to see the soldier walking a mere five feet in front of you. Despite this, the opposition forces never heard our approach. We slid into our positions under the cover of darkness and when we opened fire, we defeated them swiftly. The difficult terrain had posed a serious obstacle to us but with the steady guidance of our NCOs and an unshakeable platoon warrant we were able to make it a success. Those same NCOs worked as range safety staff for the other platoons going through their section attacks. They had very little rest over the eleven days we spent on the ranges. Despite this, they remained professional and committed. They earned the trust and respect of all 4 Platoon, Bravo Company’s members. ROYAL FORGE was where the foundation for the new Bravo Company was laid. This was an important step, not only for future exercises but for our deployment to Latvia for Op REASSURANCE in the New Year. By the end of the eleven days, we could trust one another and work as a team. We were ready for the challenges that lay ahead. EX SABOT DRAGOON: 07 NOVEMBER 2020 – 13 NOVEMBER 2020 Written by a member of 5 Platoon, Bravo Company Early in November, Bravo Company took part in Ex SABOT DRAGOON. This was just over a week long combined arms initiative to qualify members on level four ranges under the command of Major Y. Hart. The dynamic trace extended over the entirety of the CFB Petawawa training area and lasted over 20 hours including advances to contact, platoon objectives, defile drills, and numerous obstacles that challenged soldiers and leaders to think critically and outside the box. All this culminated in a complex company objective, complete with fire missions, mine and wire obstacles, intricate underground trench systems, weapons caches, booby traps, counter attacks and an enemy QRF. Realistic scenarios were built in to enhance this live fire training, including vehicle and mass casualties. This exercise further offered the opportunity to build cohesion. The company, with its attached reserve members, augmented the Royal Canadian Dragoons, and were supported by artillery, engineer, medic and logistic assets. These ranges were conducted by day and night over multiple iterations allowing soldiers to practice multiple roles throughout. Soldiers and leadership alike stepped up in many roles and demonstrated excellence and confidence leading up to the company’s deployment on Op Enhanced Forward Presence in Latvia in the New Year. The exercise also allowed for brigade level combat support assets to hone their skills, as select members of Bravo Company also conducted a Tow Anti-Armour range. [ 21  PRO PATRIA 2020 ]

The final iteration welcomed the observation of the Task Force, Brigade, Army Commanders and their respective Sergeant Majors. The hard work and technical skills of the company in its entirety were to be commended, specifically the overwhelming aggression in the form of momentum and firepower. A few soldiers stood out from the crowd. Cpl M. Featherstone and Cpl D. Sheridan were commended for exemplary work in their mounted and dismounted roles on the live fire range. It was also a time for members of Bravo Company to pause and reflect. The sacrifices of Canadian Armed Forces members past and present were honoured on a Remembrance Day parade in the field, followed by a welcomed hot meal. As the week came to a close, it was clear the many months of training had paid off and Bravo Company was a lethal fighting force, prepared to represent the Regiment on the international stage. UNITED STATES AIR ASSAULT COURSE: 01- 17 JANUARY 2020 Written by Corporal R. Zirger, Headquarters, Bravo Company From the moment we landed in Georgia, we were instantly greeted with open arms and acceptance from our American Staff Sergeant liaison. He drove us all around Fort Benning, showing us how massive the base was. It was very humbling. We spent the first 4-5 days at Abrams Hall which was a hotel on base. There, we got the chance to spend time together and got accustomed to the American lifestyle before we started Day 0 of the Air Assault Course. Without a doubt, one of the most memorable moments was being able to stand in the same place were the 1st Battalion, 7 Cavalry Regiment, led by Lieutenant-Colonel Hal Moore trained, bled and prayed before they stepped off for Vietnam in 1965. Phase One of Air Assault was interesting because during this week everyone was very nice and friendly to all the Canadians. However, you could see them trying to size us up and see what these four patches of green in a sea of multi-cam were all about. After completing our first ruck/inspection, obstacle course and run, all of us finished well in the top third of the course that had close to 250-300 candidates. All the Canadians earned the right to continue on with the course and all deserved to be there. Phase One, for me, was the most stressful. We had to pass a test which involved lots of memorization of all the different AFV and different loads of specific helicopters along with all their armaments. Once all the Canadians passed the test, it was a load off my mind. One of our own, Corporal Jesperson, achieved the highest score out of the entire course for this Phase. Phase Two of Air Assault involved sling load operations along with an incredibly detailed inspection that had been known to be a sticking point for every course that has gone through in the past. This period in the course was particularly interesting because you started to be able to see all the pieces of air mobile and sling load operations come together. The final step in this phase was the “inspection.” To watch many candidates struggle and fail this test while all four of our Canadians crush it was a massive morale boost. By this point in the course, only half of the original candidates remained on course. Passing Phase Two meant that we got to move onto the fun part of course, rappelling. Phase Three of Air Assault, which was the rappelling phase, was hands down the most fun. We had the privilege to rappel from a UH 60 Black Hawk from a height of approximately 75-

90ft. This was an amazing experience. Once you left the doors of the helicopter, you felt the force of the blades pushing you down the rope. You felt the empty space between you and the ground and the only thing controlling your fall was you. It gave you a sense of fulfillment once your feet touched the ground. The final test and completion of the course was a 12 mile ruck and inspection. During the entire course including all rucks and physical exercises, all four Canadians did it together and worked as a team. Even though we did not all pass the finish line at the same time, not one of us was alone. Having that sense of team was calming and made the 12 miles feel relaxed and fun knowing that is was the final task to complete in order to graduate. In conclusion, thank you very much on behalf of Corporal Jesperson, Sergeant Ste Croix and Captain Lepore for giving us this opportunity. Pro Patria ECHO COY The disruption caused by the COVID-19 Pandemic presented many new challenges to the Canadian Armed Forces. Nonetheless, 1 RCR was able to adapt and implement training while following force protection measures. This achievement is evident within Echo Coy, as soldiers trained and received new qualifications to provide combat support to the battalion. SNIPER PLATOON Sniper platoon completed a ten week-long Basic Sniper Course (BSC) with candidates from across 2 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group. The BSC provides candidates with knowledge on enhanced marksmanship skills, detailed mission planning and preparation, patrolling, stalking, and collecting and reporting information. This enables successful candidates to be employed on various operations as a sniper detachment member. The course culminated with a comprehensive field exercise that evaluated the candidates’ ability to perform the duties required of a Sniper serving within an Infantry Battalion. Cpl Ritter of 1 RCR was awarded Top Candidate on BSC 2020. MCpl Parker, a Sniper Platoon member, completed the United States Marine Corps Mountain Scout Sniper course in Bridgeport, California. Participants learned to be tactically and technically proficient in complex mountainous terrain. The course included instruction in advanced marksmanship at high angles, field craft with an emphasis on stalking and concealment techniques in a mountain environment, tracking, counter-tracking, mountain communications, and mountain survival. Cpl Briggs was awarded the Ted Zuber trophy for his performance within Sniper Platoon. [ 23  PRO PATRIA 2020 ]

SIGNALS PLATOON During the 2020-2021 training cycle, 1 RCR Signals Platoon worked throughout the pandemic; the platoon organized and conducted a Basic Communications Course with 40 members qualified and provided the EX-CON Command Post (CP) for the Enhanced Level 4 live ranges. They coordinated with other units to develop a SEV CP set-up design to ensure maximum mobility and efficiency of the Battalion Command Post. Signals Platoon also maintained the immediate response unit (IRU) equipment and prepared personnel for deployments in Latvia and Kuwait. Signals platoon remains prepared to provide a command and control to 1 RCR at a moment’s notice. RECCE PLATOON 2020 was a year of new challenges met and overcome for The First Battalion’s Reconnaissance Platoon. Keeping with its tradition of platform neutrality and having embraced the development of individual soldier skills, the platoon was able to adapt and excel in unprecedented times, carrying out practical training to respond to real-world events. Early in the year, Reconnaissance Platoon took part in several innovative and realistic training scenarios. These scenarios included: daily cross country skiing with a focus on developing the necessary skills to implement skiing as a means by which to patrol, multiple instances of force-on-force close terrain reconnaissance against 2 RCHA gun lines which provided real-time feedback benefitting both organizations, and conducting weeks’ worth of austere airstrip training culminating in the platoon’s assistance in landing a CC-130 Hercules at [ 24  PRO PATRIA 2020 ]

[ 25  PRO PATRIA 2020 ]

Pembroke airfield. The platoon’s early months emphasized interoperability and relationship building with other units and subunits. As preparations were well underway for the platoon to deploy to Wainwright, Alberta, as participants in Exercise Maple Resolve 2020, priorities within the local, national, international, and CAF spheres shifted. The COVID-19 pandemic and the issuing of stay- at-home orders canceled Canada’s largest exercise. Nevertheless, The First Battalion’s Reconnaissance Platoon quickly rose to the newfound challenge and rapidly evolved to fulfill its roles, often remotely or with limited personnel. The platoon undertook extensive, home-based, professional development projects, requiring members to research, plan, and prepare theoretical responses to possible crises involving the platoon within a COVID-19 environment. Development of in- house knowledge on chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear threats was encouraged, and research of 20 different scenarios was compiled. Similarly, case studies of historical successes and failures in reconnaissance operations were discussed and critiqued. Despite the platoon’s relatively small size, it found itself on several occasions not only planning for but acting in response to the pandemic. In Trenton, during the repatriation of Canadian citizens returning from abroad and in Petawawa, staffing the earliest attempts at isolation and quarantine facilities, members were active participants in the CAF’s response. The platoon remained dutiful and vigilant with the pandemic’s ever-changing realities, eventually becoming a considerable part of the Brigade IRU. Recce also managed to prepare and load its members for required career courses to expand its capabilities and respond to the pandemic crisis. Courses such as the Airmobile Operations at Fort Benning in Georgia, the Primary Leadership Course (PLQ), and Infantry [ 26  PRO PATRIA 2019 ]

Section Commander Course (ISCC) held at the Canadian Army Advanced Warfare Center in Trenton, Basic Machine Gun, Basic Winter Warfare, while also preparing a select few for the Advanced Reconnaissance Patrolman course. Members taught on, staffed, or otherwise supported several courses, such as BSC, Basic Reconnaissance Patrolman, and PLQ/ISCC. The platoon was also able to send many of its members to deploy with the Royal Canadian Dragoons led battlegroup as part of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization Enhanced Forward Patrol in Latvia. Despite the massive changes and upheavals, the platoon managed to find success in its multiple commitments and thrive in a volatile environment. Always preparing, enabling, supporting, enhancing interoperability, and delivering when and where required, Reconnaissance Platoon had a busy albeit unconventional year. FOXTROT COMPANY Introduction written by Major S.T. Keeble Although 2020 was a challenging year, and yes that is a bit of an understatement, the men and women of Foxtrot Company supported all 1 RCR tasks, exercises, training and deployments through ingenuity, adaptability and dedication. Our transition from pre- deployment to Maple Resolve 20 to current pandemic lockdown measures was quick, difficult and confusing; however this company rose to that challenge and ensured that the battalion continued to operate and lead the way within 2CMBG. From our maintenance platoon devising an early and safe return to work months before other units to our cooks supporting the base kitchen to feed those stuck in shacks to our transport platoon running vital driver courses to maintain our fleet, each member within the company adapted to our new reality successfully. This year was difficult, but the lessons learned and achievements made have strengthened the company and the unit going forward. LOGISTICS PLATOON Written by Cpl M.J. Morris 2020 was an interesting yet challenging year for all personnel within Logistics Platoon. Commencing in January 2020, Logistics Pl was packing and preparing all stores for the battalion to deploy to Maple Resolve 20 in Wainwright, AB. This involved coordinating with each company which Weapons, STANO (Surveillance, Target Acquisition, and Night Observation), Rations and generic supplies they would need to bring in order to support themselves while out there. All companies within the battalion were required to pack their stores while the Material Management Technicians and storemen implemented different skill sets to make this attainable, such as Dangerous Goods Packing and Transporting, Forklifting to pack the trailers, and working within the Defence Resource Management Information System (DRMIS) to have all their stores transferred onto their deployed accounts for material accountability. Major Equipment section played a huge role in having ready all vehicles that were selected to go out for the Exercise. This included transferring all CFRs to their appropriate deployed Major Equipment SLOCs (Storage Locations), EIS packed/ manifested, and collaborating with Transport Pl, Maintenance Pl and outside units for transportation arrangements. During March 2020, we got some unfortunate news. COVID-19 had made its [ 27  PRO PATRIA 2020 ]

way into Canada and had resulted in a setback for the CAF. We were no longer deploying to Maple Resolve and our staff were informed that we would be working shift work throughout the pandemic in order to sustain normal activities and still be able to support the unit if anything was to arise. During all this, Logistics Pl was also conducting their normal day to day activities, such as Quarterly Stocktaking Verification, Returns and Repairs, Replenishing stores from the depot and through Local Purchasing, and supporting outside units through CFTPOs for equipment. Logistics Pl supported the following: Level 4 Ranges, ISSC in CFB Trenton, Basic Sniper Course, Ex Royal Forge and other small various tasks that arose from outside units. The stocktaking cell within 1 RCR also completed a 100 Percent Stocktaking in the Trench system for an Enhance Level 4 Range. Supported by the Logistic Pl. summer to ensure the battalion Also, most of the senior NCOs and Officers of F Coy acted as ARSOs for Ex Royal was up to standards on its material accountability. This involved Spirit. Photo: Pte Morley running reports on DRMIS and handing out count sheets to all the account holders and making the appropriate adjustments. Our LPO section has been constantly supporting requests for various exercises and tasks throughout the year, such as sourcing quotes from different companies/retailers looking for the most appropriate method of procurement to sustain the organization. 1 RCR was also the lead on JTFI Roto 4. The Logistics Pl played a huge role as we needed to coordinate with Ops Cell, the companies and outside units (CMTT) to ensure we had everything to support the troops and operation. Our cooks also played an important role within the battalion this year. Amongst all the new protocols we needed to follow in order to keep our personnel safe, we had a little bit of normalcy when it came to the cooks supporting Kowang-San Day, Pashmul Day and Ex Royal Forge. The cooks were able to provide nutritious meals to the troops while also being able to follow the safety protocols. It helped increase the morale of the troops and gave us all a sense of normal in our life at the battalion. We have a dedicated team of Material Management Technicians, Storemen, FSA Clerks and Cooks that all contribute to the overall success of 1 RCR. [ 28  PRO PATRIA 2020 ]

TRANSPORT PLATOON Written by Cpl P. Okoronkwo The year 2020 started out as a promising one for transport platoon and Fox Coy. All members of the platoon were in one way or another involved in helping 1 RCR prep for Ex Maple Resolve 2020 due to take place that spring/summer in Wainwright, Alberta. This exercise was to serve as a way to certify that the rifle coys were capable of functioning well in a battle group environment prior to deployment. As usual, transport platoon was to play a vital role in this exercise as the unit’s main method of getting all the supplies needed to be operational in the field. The year started with moving most of our fleet to the rail yard in Prescott for transport to Alberta and getting supplies ready before heading out the door and off to CFB Wainwright. However, this was not to be the case as the Covid-19 pandemic proved to be a stumbling block in the CAF’s plans for the year 2020. Everything was brought to an abrupt standstill due to the pandemic as exercises and courses were all curtailed or delayed. Ex Maple Resolve was, unfortunately, no exception. As such, transport platoon spent the better part of the spring and early summer returning the battalion’s fleet of vehicles to the unit lines. The platoon was tasked with remaining vigilant and ready to respond to anything the unit would require whilst working mainly from home throughout the summer. However, the platoon was still able get its personnel qualified on the PWT 3 and other ranges even with all the challenges being faced. The fall of 2020 proved to be more productive as the platoon was able to conduct several driving courses, such as Driver Wheel, SMP, and Bison Ambulance. Running these courses is very crucial to the unit because it gets soldiers qualified on the different variants of vehicles that are integral to the day to day functions of the battalion. As the year came to a close, transport platoon was placed on high readiness in order for its troops to be prepared to respond to any emergencies that may arise due to the pandemic and also for any environment or weather related catastrophes that may occur. With all that being said, 2020 came with challenges but the platoon was able to meet them head on and conquer them as we are trained to do. The platoon was able maintain its high standards of operation and showed that it is always ready to carry out any duties that are required by the battalion. MAINTENANCE PLATOON Written by MCpl Nicolaidis In March of 2020, the world was hit with the Covid-19 virus that disrupted the normality of everyday life. Despite the entire province being put on lockdown, the 1 RCR Maintenance crews were able to ensure that vehicles were ready for the road, weapons were ready to get rounds down range, and repairs were being completed in a timely manner. During this unsettling time, the team worked together in order to adhere to the maintenance schedule, as well as providing operational vehicles for Bravo Coy to perform work up training. This past year, it was not uncommon to see maintenance crews starting to work early and seeing them stay late, ensuring that the unit as a whole could continue to be functional [ 29  PRO PATRIA 2020 ]

Cpl Greene checking a SMP’s engine. Photo by: Sgt S. St-Aubin and deployable. The teamwork and coordination seen over these troubling times was outstanding. Teams worked closely together to ensure that minimum manning was controlled. This allowed us to meet timings and distribute information to continue with the maintenance requirements. The morale of maintenance was very high and continues to be. This is a clear example of the drive and dedication shown by 1 RCR maintainers; despite restrictions and uncontrollable factors, the members of 1 RCR maintenance stepped up to the challenge. With crews working shift work and more on standby, maintenance tackled all problems that were presented. As a whole, the maintenance team worked tirelessly to prepare the unit for any upcoming challenges. Furthermore, members volunteered their time and expertise to others to ensure work was completed, training was being conducted, and administration was kept up. The maintenance team provided top shelf work during this time. Morale is still at a high point; the sense of accomplishment, achievement and duty has never waffled with this team of highly trained professional technicians and soldiers. This was shown by constantly performing at a very high standard, encouraged by the pride these soldiers show every day. 1 RCR maintenance has performed superbly by utilizing their skill sets, encouraging development of all personal, creating a deep down pride in their accomplishment. HOMEFIRE FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS Written by Lt Aguilar Cabrera As a response to the new COVID19 environment, 2CMBG decided to coordinate a one kilometer long drive-thru light display inside CFB Petawawa in order to celebrate the holidays as a battle group together with our families. Each unit was tasked to decorate a two hundred meters section at their own discretion. Foxtrot Company spearheaded the task for 1RCR with the support of the Kit Shop personnel, Trade Pioneers, and a general duty (GD) party comprised of members from The Duke’s Company and Charles Company. Since we knew that most units would be using classic holiday decorations like inflatable Santa Clauses and snowmen figures, we decided to decorate our designated area in a way that would embody our mechanized unit by utilizing our main weapon – the LAV6. Our main course of action was to take advantage of the darkness [ 30  PRO PATRIA 2020 ]

covering our AO by saturating the trees with strings of lights and placing several LAV6s wrapped in lights in an ack-ack formation. However, we had to go through an odyssey in order to acquire enough lights since the unit only had enough to wrap a small Christmas tree. We drove to Ottawa and Gatineau seeking strings of lights in several Wal-Marts, Canadian Tires, Home Depots, and a Costco. First, we bought 266 boxes of white string lights at Costco, leaving only a few boxes on the shelves. We proceeded to look for colored strings. Costco did not have any, and in every Wal-Mart and Home Depot we went to, we were directed to the next closest branch with the sentence “they might have more.” We drove all the way to Gatineau to find a Wal-Mart with 120 boxes of color strings – we bought it all! The preparation and the set-up of our AO was reinforced by a working party from The Duke’s Coy, Charles Coy, the Kit Shop and Trade Pioneers. The GDs from Duke’s and Charles did the set-up under the supervision of WO Marchand. Top: A drive-thru light display to celebrate the holydays in a COVID19 They set up approximately 3200 meters environment. 1RCR set up approximately 3200m of light strings. Photo of strings in 3 days. They wrapped the by: Sailor 1st Class E. Ross strings around trees on both sides of the Above: Maj S.T. Keeble briefing the DP4 candidates on the simulators road, camouflaging the LAVs with strings while keeping a safe distance. The course was taught by the command of lights to blend them in with the trees. team of Foxtrot Company. They also set up overhead lights. Trade Pioneers made three signs to place on the LAVs: the Regimental Badge, a sign that read “1RCR,” and a “Happy Holidays” sign. They also came up with the idea of changing the LAV barrels with PVC tubes to imitate candy canes. The Kit Shop provided us with enough gifts for the children and youth visiting the light display. After all the hard work, 1RCR’s designated section was shaped into a lighted tunnel formed by the overhead lights, and the strings wrapped in the trees. The light reflecting on the snow highlighted the formation of LAV6s with their candy cane barrels. Despite COVID19, we were able to celebrate the holidays as a unit by adapting and overcoming the current environment. The combination of the hard work from the involved parties and an unforeseen snowstorm resulted in a bright winter wonderland that allowed us to demonstrate our gratitude for the support of our members’ and their families. [ 31  PRO PATRIA 2020 ]

OP IMPACT Written by Major Cullen Downey The Canadian Armed Forces conducts multiple operations in the Middle East as part of the Government of Canada’s commitment to enhance regional stability and promote rules- based international order. As part of this effort, Operation (Op) IMPACT is Canada’s military contribution to the Global Coalition to defeat Da’esh. This mission is executed across seven countries, eleven different bases and with over 400 personnel. Members of 1st Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment (1 RCR) led from positions of significant influence throughout the Combined Joint Operations Area (CJOA) in 2020. From Ali Al-Salem Airbase, Kuwait, newly promoted Major (Maj) Gavin Sigouin controlled the Joint Operations Centre (JOC) as the Joint Task Force IMPACT (JTF-I) J33 and was backed by Capt John Hill as the J3 Duty Officer. The JOC worked diligently to align JTF-I’s disparate elements in order to support coalition efforts across the CJOA. In the Operational Support Hub – South West Asia (OSH-SWA), 1 RCR non-Commissioned Officers were the backbone of the organization. Sergeant (Sgt) Phil Frank (Ops Sgt) and Master Warrant Officer (MWO) Nicole Barrett (Ops MWO) coordinated support to deployed CAF members throughout the Middle East. Dividing time between Iraq and Kuwait, Maj Cullen Downey served as the Executive Assistant to Brigadier General (BGen) Paul Peyton, within Combined Joint Task Force – Operation INHERENT RESOLVE (CJTF-OIR). BGen Peyton was the Director of Strategic RCR members in Camp Canada, Kuwait, following the Ortona Toast on 21 December 2020. [ 32  PRO PATRIA 2020 ]

Clockwise from top left: Maj Gavin Sigouin being promoted to his current rank, by BGen Mike Wright (R) with CWO Christian Thomassin (L). MWO Nicole Barrett after completing the Danish Contingent March. MWO Jeff Nighswander (L) and Maj Jeff Bell (R) as the CTAT Lebanon leadership team, 11 November 2020. (L-R) Maj Cullen Downey, Capt Adam Snook and Capt Erik Altermann in Northern Iraq, September 2020. Communications (DSC) within the Coalition 3 Star Headquarters. DSC’s role is to shape the information environment in order to achieve strategic communications objectives that enable the enduring defeat of Da’esh. Capt Erik Altermann also served within CJTF-OIR as the Kurdistan Coordination Centre Battle Captain from Erbil, Iraq. Within this capacity, he provided liaison and battlefield deconfliction to facilitate situational awareness and unity of effort with the Partner Forces. Lastly, MWO Jeff Nighswander operated as the Canadian Training Assistance Team (CTAT) Lebanon Sergeant Major. On the western front of the CJOA, his team mentored the Lebanese Armed Forces in order to build their capacity through skills-based training, equipment acquisition and infrastructure development. [ 33  PRO PATRIA 2020 ]

OP UNIFIER 1RCR PERSPECTIVE “In August 2015, CJOC began providing military assistance to the Security Forces of Ukraine (SFU) through Op UNIFIER. Joint Task Force - UNIFIER (JTF-U) conducts security force capacity building at the tactical and operational levels while also supporting strategic level security sector reforms. Both lines of effort enhance host nation self-sufficiency and ability to conduct security forces operations in the Donbass region of Ukraine. Over the past ten rotations, Op UNIFIER has trained over 20,000 SFU personnel via individual and collective training, and professional military education. JTF-U consists of just over 200 personnel and is organized into six training groups, a service support group, and a Task Force headquarters. The training groups are dispersed throughout the country and include engineer, medical, military police specialists in addition to combat arms personnel. Integrally, JTF-U has attachments from the Danish and Swedish Armed Forces and is supported by local Ukrainian linguists. 1 RCR force generated eleven personnel in support of 2 RCHA, the lead mounting unit for JTF-U Rotation 10. Attached are seven officers, one NCO, and three NCMs from 1 RCR. Principals include the Maj E. Morrow (J3, 2IC Foxtrot Coy), Maj K. Griffin (J5, OC The Dukes), and MWO Sunderland (Advisor, CSM Charles Coy). Transfer of Command Authority between Rotation 10 and Rotation 11 will occur on 29 March 2021. Attached to the incoming task force from 1 RCR are three officers, one NCO, and four NCMs including: Maj S. Keeble (DComd, OC Foxtrot Coy), Maj J. Williston (J3, Adjt), and MWO T. Curtis (Training Group SM, CSM Echo Coy).” ‘DAY IN THE LIFE’ OP UNIFIER 1RCR “My name is Captain Will Corrigan. Prior to deploying on Op UNIFIER R10, I was employed as 3 Platoon Commander, The Duke’s Company, 1 RCR. I am currently deployed as the National Guard of Ukraine Training Group (NTG) NCO Development Team Lead. My team and I work out of the NGU NCO Academy located in the city of Zolochiv, within the western Lviv Oblast region of Ukraine. The National Guard of Ukraine (NGU) was initially established in 1991 following Ukrainian independence and was dissolved 9 years later. The NGU was re-established in March 2014 following the Ukrainian Revolution and Russian intervention in Crimea. Since then, the NGU has been war fighting in the Donbas in addition to fulfilling other interior responsibilities. Our task at the NCO Academy is to provide oversight and mentorship on the DP1-3 courses which have been developed in a joint effort between Op UNIFIER and the NGU. We have also been working jointly with a TF Training Development Officer to streamline the DP2-3. Our main effort currently is with the DP3 (Intermediate Leadership Course). The DP3 is a common course that all NGU servicemen/women need to take to be qualified as a Senior Sergeant in the position of Pl 2IC. Candidates come from across all units within the NGU. These largely consist of the following: combat operations, public order [ 34  PRO PATRIA 2020 ]

protection, convoy operations, special purpose, key infrastructure protection, and sustainment units. My team has been providing direct instruction to the NGU DP3 course on NATO content to include Mission Command, MGRS, Troop Leading Procedures, and the Officer-NCO Relationship. We have developed a training package for NGU instructors on these topics. Instructing through a linguist can be difficult at times. However we have quickly learned how to navigate these difficulties by ensuring that we speak in brief, deliberately constructed sentences. It is imperative that when instructing classes, we double our time estimate as everything has to be said twice. At the outset of COVID-19, all field training on Capt Corrigan giving Comd Direction after courses was temporarily paused. However then receiving a CoA backbrief from a DP3 Candidate. the NGU has implemented significant force health measures to protect candidates and instructors. Masks are mandatory and temperature checks are conducted whenever personnel are moving onto the base. In 2021, we will see the resumption of a normal course schedule. Our short term goal is to facilitate the implementation of the NATO content throughout the field training phases of the courses. Our long term goal is to support the instructor cadre in delivering all course material. This effort will support a self-sustaining NGU NCO training system and contribute to NATO interoperability.” Capt Corrigan offering AAR points on defensive fire planning and KZ layout after observing a section defensive live fire on the DP2 crse [ 35  PRO PATRIA 2020 ]

2nd Battalion The Royal Canadian Regiment LCol T.A.D. Norton, CD COMMANDING OFFICER’S INTRODUCTION 2 RCR This year the members of the 2nd Bn supported multiple CWO M.D. Anderson, CD international operations. Throughout, the entire 2nd Bn was focused on achieving operational effects and in spite of the pandemic didn’t miss a beat. While we were split up throughout Europe and the Middle East supporting our allies and Canada’s national interest, the rear party stepped up and took care of our families and then us in ISOFACs upon our return from deployment. This focus on mission success while overcoming all obstacles, and taking care of our own at the same time, is in the best traditions of the Royal Canadian Regiment, Pro Patria! Immediately reconstituted after the return from operations, we stood ready to do whatever Canada and Canadians needed as the pandemic continued to disrupt our country. For the RSM and I it was a great honor to deploy on Op REASSURANCE R2002 (TF BEAST) with a good part of the Bn and then watch the successes of the rest of the Bn from afar. The 2nd is always a great place to be, but in the face of the pandemic induced turmoil this was truly a great time to be here. 2nd To None! OP UNIFIER GOLF COMPANY Submitted by Capt T.R. White The role of 2 RCR’s participation in the deployment to Op UNIFIER Rotation (Roto) 10 was multifactorial; it saw the building of inroads with local AFU commanders, the teaching of lessons on complex urban ops tactics, the building of rapport with linguists, the conduct of community outreach and charity work, and training with Multi-National (MN) partners. All of this, carried out in a COVID environment. On 14 Sep 20, G Coy HQ with personnel from 2 RCR and from across 2 CMBG, [ 36  PRO PATRIA 2020 ]

CO TAC - left to right: LCol Norton, Sgt Maillet, Cpl Nau- mann, MCpl Jones, Capt Warnock, and CWO Anderson deployed with 2 RCHA on Op UNIFIER in Ukraine. Having completed TMST in Petawawa and Gagetown simultaneously and virtually, G Coy HQ deployed in good order and quickly integrated its diverse team into the Collective Training Advisory Group (CTAG). Of note, the CTAG included officers and soldiers from all three Regular Force battalions of The RCR. After completing a 14 day quarantine upon arrival in Ukraine, a small contingent remained at the International Peacekeeping and Security Centre (IPSC) to work with MN partners and Ukrainian OCT’s in preparation for the incoming rotational training brigade (RTB). The remainder made their way to Combat Training Centre Shiroky-Lan (CTC-SL) to mentor and advise Ukrainian instructors and prepare for an incoming training audience. CTC-SL is located close to the ship-building city of Mykolaiv on the black sea coast of Ukraine; representing a shift from training in the western reaches of the country to a new southern focus. The development of this training institution as a credible center of excellence for collective training quickly became the main effort of the CTAG’s deployment. Critical to this main effort was the CTAG’s ability to deploy mobile training teams (MTTs) across Ukraine to provide individual training and mentoring to courses on short notice. Sgt Corey Duperron and MCpl Jeremy Delos-Reyes deployed on a MTT to Dnipro to instruct on a Basic Infantry Course and Junior NCO course. Working with the British and [ 37  PRO PATRIA 2020 ]

Sgt Corey Boudreau leads urban ops classes for Ukrainian OCT’s at CTC-SL. Capt Mike Asumang-Birikorang and WO Derek Hill observe training at IPSC [ 38  PRO PATRIA 2020 ]

Danish Armed Forces of Op ORBITAL and using British doctrine they adapted quickly and succeeded at this task. Sgt Corey Boudreau went from preparing and instructing an urban ops training package in CTC-SL to instructing on a Basic Sniper course just outside Kyiv. Junior NCOs from 2 RCR have had the opportunity to work at all levels throughout this deployment. They had the opportunity to instruct section level tactics, but also played a role in mentoring, guiding, and assisting with planning for platoon, company and battalion level operations. Our Cpls and MCpls instructed lessons on battle procedure, Sgts advised company commanders on the execution of their plans and learning about the MDMP cycle, while WOs supported their officer partners in mentoring battalion and brigade commanders and staff on exercise design and tactical planning. Having briefly downed tools in late December for in-theatre R&R, it is important to note that the regimental birthday was marked appropriately in Ukraine. Royal Canadians on Op UNIFIER were able to virtually join the eFP BG in Latvia as LCol Norton delivered the Ortona Toast. Promoted on the Regimental Birthday were MCpls Josh Hunt and Tony Hann. The Christmas stand-down period saw a number of outings for professional development, including a NCO trip to Odesa. Breakfast was prepared by the Officers for the NCOs and soldiers on Christmas and New Year’s Day, while letters were received from Canadians sending their well-wishes. Overall, despite not being home for Christmas, the season passed with much optimism and camaraderie. While COVID-19 was a continuing source of frustration, leadership and soldiers on the ground remained accountable and vigilant by social distancing, wearing masks, and operating in a dispersed manner. These methods became common practice and were constantly enforced. MCpl Jeremy Delos-Reyes observing a PWT while employed on a British-led Basic Infantry Course as a part of Op ORBITAL. [ 39  PRO PATRIA 2019 ]

The normal functioning of mentoring Ukrainian training went on, despite the threat. The final phase of this Roto saw soldiers and officers of 2 RCR assist in the planning, running and validating of a RTB at CTC-SL. This RTB was to be the first major RTB to be run at this fledgling training institution and constituted a sizeable accomplishment. Much effort was put in on the part of all soldiers and officers deployed to ensure a smooth handover with the incoming Roto 11, an assumption of the running of the RTB and a redeployment to New Brunswick in March. Overall, Op UNIFIER Roto 10 provided soldiers and officers of the 2nd Battalion excellent opportunities for learning and honing their skills. All ranks consistently stepped up, operated outside their comfort zones and excelled in providing their Ukrainian counterparts top quality instruction and mentorship. Much of these lessons learned are sure to be incorporated by the soldiers deployed for the span of their careers, contributing to their development as NCOs and supporting The Regiment’s future endeavors. OP REASSURANCE 2 RCR deployed on Op REASSURANCE 20-02 in July of 2020. Due to Covid conditions the Bn’s three deploying coys went through a condensed and partially virtual Theater Mission Specific Training (TMST) before heading to the Royal Military College in Kingston, ON, in order to quarantine for 14 days prior to deployment. Despite the novel deployment conditions, Hotel, Kilo, and Lima (or Havoc, Khaos, and Viper) arrived well prepared to take over from 1 PPCLI. Led by LCol Trevor “The Beast” Norton, Task Force Beast took on every challenge available and excelled throughout. Being the Newly promoted 2RCR MCpls Josh Hunt and Tony Hann explain and demonstrate room clearing drills. [ 40  PRO PATRIA 2020 ]

MCpl Dave Lyall instructs a lesson on hasty vehicle checkpoints. framework nation, Canada, and prominently 2 RCR took a strong leadership role throughout the deployment. While the achievements of Royal Canadians were numerous, this dialogue will serve to preserve a fraction of their accomplishments in writing. HOTEL “HAVOC” COMPANY Submitted by Capt H.G Little Hotel, or “Havoc” Coy as it is known during Roto 20-02 on Op REASSURANCE began its tour in a sprint by conducting an air assault exercise with allies from Slovakia and air sppt from the American 5th 101st airborne regt. The Ex known as HAVOC SOARING was led by acting Coy OC, Capt Harry Little who was the GFC during the 2x Pl assault on a simulated river crossing site using the Blackhawk helicopter. To conclude the first month of tour which was spent completing BG integration trg, Havoc Coy organized and executed a quick aim shooting gun camp on Latvia’s West Coast in Ventspills. During Ex HAVOC FIRST STRIKE, Capt Mark Drugget and WO Andy Scott led the two days of advanced rifle and pistol practices for six other nations who were able to establish a coy plus size camp on the beach. Not only was the Ex was extremely successful from a trg stand point but also a sending and host nation integration perspective. The drawdown of Beast Prime and start of Beast Rising, came with multiple force on force BG level FTXs in which HAVOC Coy, led by Major Caselton, was able to hone its skills against a [ 41  PRO PATRIA 2020 ]

Left: Havoc Coy screens their position as they withdraw during the delay battle against a Danish Cbt tm on Ex Furious Axe. Above: 6 Pl’s Stage 5 GPMG trench during Ex Silver Arrow dynamic enemy force. Ex SILVER ARROW saw the Coy spend a large amount of time on the defensive and dug in. The Pl’s were able to dig in every trench to stage five and sustained multiple waves of enemy attacks. On the last day of the Ex, Havoc conducted a dismounted infil far behind enemy lines and opened a corridor for the Zulu LAVs which were able to destroy all of the enemy’s CSS, C2, UAV, Air mobile, and IDF capabilities which resulted in endex. Similarly Havoc was able to create the same penetration in enemy lines during Ex FURIOUS AXE by conducting multiple pl size layback patrols which were unleashed on the enemy’s rear area after they had been bypassed. Working with the three other “heavy” infantry eFP sending nations was a great opportunity for Havoc as it allowed the coy to work on its dismounted infils via Zulu insertion. The LAV platform consistently allowed the Coy to get places much faster than other countries and therefore provided highly valued flexibility. Ex IRON SPEAR, has become a recurring cornerstone of the eFP BG Latvia deployment and Havoc Coy had a large role to play in this event. For the first time, IRON SPEAR included an IFV competition run by Havoc, to accompany the MBT competition and firepower demonstration. Led by Captain Nathan McIver and WO Terry Daley, the IFV competition involved individual fire and movement from a series of jockeying positions and concluded with a “stab run,” with multiple buildings. All 21 competitors shot well but no one could beat the Norwegians who won both the IFV and MBT competition. 5 Pl and Esp Sapper Coy “Castor” using an explosive breach on one Havoc planned and organized two final of the many buildings in the Beast Crossbow range. BG size exercises to conclude 2 RCR’s tour in Latvia which were known as BEAST CROSSBOW and BEAST RAIDER. CROSSBOW saw multiple BG nations rotate through a level 3.5 live complex range which included a dense urban objective [ 42  PRO PATRIA 2020 ]

and a Russian trench system which required explosive Havoc HQ providing security and marking for breaching. Pl comd’s were given a plethora of assets American Air Medevac. to manage including, Esp Sappers, Italian tank hunters, Cdn snipers and MUAS, American AH, and CAS. BEAST RAIDER led by 4 Pl’s Lt Donny Perry and WO Jeff Arrand, saw a multinational patrolling concentration across two training areas in the East of Latvia. Teams started with limited knowledge of their tasks and were able to piece their 40 hr long patrol’s missions together with intel exploited from each objective. The final phase of their patrol saw them compromised and conducting an EPA plan back to a War RV before being transported back to base. The start of the Ex coincided with the country’s first heavy snowfall of the year which made for exceptional patrolling weather for all teams. Havoc Coy learned many TACTICAL lessons on Op REASSURANCE 20-02 that all mbrs will carry with them back to 2 RCR. More importantly, they were able to foster relationships with sending nations and elevate the CAF’s reputation on an international stage. KILO “KHAOS” COMPANY Submitted by Capt H.G. Little Kilo Company, now known as Khaos Company, deployed on Op REASSURANCE under the command of Maj Jan Kool, Capt Will Armstrong and MWO Dan MacIntyre in July 2020. The company immediately set to work integrating with the other sending nations and platoon members that they were unable to train with in Canada due to the COVID-19 pandemic. RECONNAISSANCE PLATOON This year, 2 RCR sent its Recce Khaos Company. Pictured from L-R: Canadian Coy and BG HQ Staff, Signals Pl, Pl command team of Capt ‘Moz’ and ISR Pl. Italian Armoured Recce Pl , Albanian EOD Pl. 19 Dec 20. Photo Credit: Diegel and WO Justin Keough along with a section of recce MCpl Donna MacDonald, eFP BG Latvia, Canadian Armed Forces. patrolman to support eFP BG Latvia’s ISTAR Platoon. The platoon, CS WENDIGO, supported a Coy Air Assault operation shortly after arriving in theatre. They conducted extensive integration training with their RCD counterparts as well as soldiers from across the BG. They conducted force-on-force recce training with Canadian and [ 43  PRO PATRIA 2020 ]

Top: Capt M.F.Z. Diegel, 2 RCR Recce Pl, Ex American EW teams as well as Spanish Sniper teams, BEAST STRIKE, 10 Sep 20. Photo Credit: MCpl JTACs and recce patrolmen. They conducted disruption Donna MacDonald, eFP BG Latvia, Canadian and reconnaissance operations in eFP Estonia’s rear Armed Forces. area during Ex FURIOUS AXE where they disrupted lines of communication. Recce patrolmen delineated Above: Cpl J.M. Johnson, 2 RCR Recce Pl, Ex objectives for Slovakian and Spanish combat teams WENDIGO SPIRIT, 26 Aug 20. Photo Credit: MCpl to destroy British defensives and ultimately the Donna MacDonald, eFP BG Latvia, Canadian enemy’s will to fight. On Ex SILVER ARROW, 2 RCR Armed Forces. recce patrolmen destroyed enemy Bde HQ elements and artillery maneuver areas utilizing indirect fires to enable the BG’s success. Later on, members called in live artillery fire with BG JTACs and FOOs. 2 RCR members conducted TCCC training with Spanish Sniper teams including casualty extraction during Urban Operations. NCOs from 2 RCR had the opportunity to attach and lead Spanish Spike and Recce elements on multinational NATO training events. During their time in Latvia, 2 RCR recce patrolmen gained vast experience that will bring home new perspectives to recce pl training and development. SNIPER GROUP The 2 RCR Sniper Group sent a detachment of Snipers, under command of Sgt Tom Plunkett, to form the core of the eFP BG Snipers for OP REASSURANCE Roto 20- 02. Shortly after arriving the det deployed on a Coy Air Assault operation, where they inserted early to define the objective and initiate the fire plan. Following the air assault exercise the det took part in Ex BALTIC SNIPER, which is a sniper concentration with participation from eFP BG Latvia, Estonia and Lithuania. The team immediately integrated with the other snipers and were quite successful on the one week field exercise staged out of Skrunda. Sgt Plunkett, Cpl Tyler Walden, Cpl Arpad Kavanagh, and Cpl Levi Benson were quick to integrate all the sending nation snipers to complete their missions during Ex BEAST STRIKE, SILVER ARROW and FURIOUS AXE. During these BG and Bde level exercises, Sgt Plunkett and his team were able to employ snipers and marksman from Spain and Slovakia, to disrupt the advance of the enemy and destroy HVT spread over a dispersed frontage. Upon completion of these major exercises the sniper det led a number of marksmanship ranges for the BG and completed OJT for soldiers that [ 44  PRO PATRIA 2020 ]

showed potential to be snipers once we return to Canada. To finish the deployment the Sniper Det planned and executed another concentration with snipers from Latvia, Spain and Slovakia participating in concealments, stalking and live fire exercises. SIGNALS PLATOON The Signals Platoon, commanded by Capt Jamie Locke and WO Don Power, immediately started to integrate their attachments from 2 CMBG and the Reserve Force members from 5 Cdn Div into a cohesive platoon that was ready for the numerous communications difficulties that lay ahead. The pl planned and executed a multinational communications academy incorporating members from all nations. This academy improved both the knowledge and skills of the pl, but also ensured that all participating nations had a good baseline of equipment knowledge and voice procedure. During September the pl participated in the NATO Combat Readiness Evaluation - Ex SILVER ARROW. Going back to the basics of communicating, the Pl ran over 30km of line for field phones during the defensive operations. The communications academy also paid its dividends ensuring the pl could employ multiple complex systems and networks to support the command and control of the BG. To top the year, the pl displayed their mastery of HF by dominating the global HF communications competition – Ex NOBLE SKYWAVE. Our Line Det Comd, MCpl Stephan Armitage, used an RF-300 (20W) manpack to successfully established comms with other teams from around the world. Their dedication and effort won them a 1st place finish out of over 180 teams. INTELLIGENCE CELL The 2 RCR Intelligence team, under command of Capt ‘D.C.’McGinnis, deployed on Op REASSURANCE and formed the core of the eFP Battle Group S2 cell. The cell was complimented with members from the CAF PRes as well as multinational partners from Spain, Czech Republic, Poland and Slovakia. The cell coordinated with numerous entities including Task Force Latvia, NATO and host nation partners while in theatre to provide accurate enemy assessments for numerous BG and Bde level training events. OPERATIONS CELL The Ops Cell, Capt Bryan Mell, MWO Gerald Killam and WO Chris Harding, had the difficult task of pulling a multinational group of officers and NCOs together in order to control the battles during Ex BEAST STRIKE, SILVER ARROW, and FURIOUS AXE. During Ex BEAST STRIKE, the team immediately established the battle rhythm and worked with both command posts to ensure everyone understood the BG SOPs. On Ex SILVER ARROW, they were instrumental in working with both Bde and the flanking battalions to ensure that our BLOCK of the enemy Bde was successful. Finally, during Ex FURIOUS AXE they would deploy the forward CP on numerous occasions to control the rapid advance we were achieving against the enemy force. [ 45  PRO PATRIA 2020 ]

PLANS CELL Top: The S2 Cell. Pictured from L-R: Back Row Lt L Immediately upon deploying to Latvia the Plans Martinsky (Slovakia) – ISTAR, OR-5 R. Martinek (Czech cell was christened the “Plansformers” by the Republic) – ISTAR, Cpl R DePencier (Canada 2RCR) – TIO, passionate ITA deputy and began refining the Host Cpl S Keates (Canada 2RCR) – Analyst, Capt A Olsen Nation Defense Plan while simultaneously building (Canada) – S2 Plans, and Cpl M Marlin (Canada) – Analyst. their mobile planning team and conducting FR: Cpl B. Cook (Canada) – Analyst, Lt A Gradowski exercise design. The core team named the Tactical (Poland) – 2IC, Capt DC McGinnis (Canada 2RCR) – S2, Planning Group was comprised of Maj Jan Kool, OR-8 E Briz (Spain) – Sgt Maj/Senior Analyst, Lt. T Jobek Capt Nate Holdway, Lt Athar Mohiuddin, Capt (Slovakia) – ISTAR, and Lt E Rankin (Canada) – S2 Ops. Will Armstrong, Cpl Alex Banks, and Cpl Robert Final Picture prior to RIP, 9 Dec 2. Photo Credit: MCpl De Pencier. These teams were able to craft bold, Donna MacDonald, eFP BG Latvia, Canadian Armed Forces. maneouvrist orders on PowerPoint and rapidly Above - The Plans Teams during Ex FURIOUS AXE. print graphical overlays on Pictured from L-R: Back row: Capt Holdway, Cpl De talc from the confines of their Pencier, Capt Kogej (Slovenia), Cpl Banks, Maj Di Palma SEV mounted on an MSVS. (Italy), Maj Kool, Maj Martin (Spain), Cpl Kadir. Front row: This approach led to success Capt Brongos (Spain), Lt Mohiuddin, Cpl Carvajal (Spain), on exercises BEAST STRIKE, Capt Olsen. 17-24 Nov 20. SILVER ARROW and culminated on FURIOUS AXE. On this final exercise the BG out planned the eFP Estonia by out-pacing, out- patrolling and out-thinking their European brothers in arms. The Plans cell confirmed the ancient Estonian proverb which says “if the planning is well done the execution is pure fun”. As a final note, it should be mentioned that the traditional Officer-NCO hockey game could not occur because of COVID 19. It is only by this unlucky chance that the NCOs managed to avoid playing and losing to the officers for the fourth year in a row. LIMA “VIPER” COMPANY Submitted by Capt H.G. Little In the summer of 2020, 2 RCR deployed as the Lead Mounting Unit on Op REASSURANCE eFP Latvia 20-02 amidst a rising COVID-19 crisis. It was an extremely busy time for CSS coy who organized things to move the personnel and equipment overseas. This latest deployment provided many challenges and opportunities for HQ and the three platoons constituting the company: Logistics, Transport and Maintenance Platoon on the tour. [ 46  PRO PATRIA 2020 ]

The headquarters for VIPER Company under the OC, Maj Aaron Guzzwell, CSM, MWO Cecil Elliott and 2IC, Capt Jason O’Rourke, were immediately presented with the intricate challenges of shaping and leading a Multinational company that would expand rapidly to over 200 soldiers in the field. We were fortunate to have an excellent team of Liaison Officers from each nation. By keeping a one team mentality and deploying to the field with the Company as soon as we could to set the standards and conditions expected of everyone, the team shaped up rather quickly. This allowed us to focus on developing the tactical employment of CSS in the field and tackle large problem sets like planning for vehicle retrogrades and working with each nation to ensure all CSS needs were met both in Garrison and in the field. VIPER Company made meaningful contributions to the mission in Latvia and formed an outstanding team that all members can take pride in. Transport platoon was integral to the efficient operation of the Battle Group, whether in garrison or deployed on field operations and was led by Capt Sam Asner and WO Adam Pizio. While deployed as part of a multi-national CSS Coy, Tpt Pl included elements from most of the sending nations. They were primarily responsible for ensuring the resupply of forward units through Delivery Points and emergency replenishment of specific commodities. During ROTO 20-02, Tpt platoon expanded their field deployment capabilities in order to allow for increased flexibility and a balanced work to rest ratio. The 24 hour rotation cycle enabled the Tpt platoon to support the delivery of heavy engineering equipment, defensive stores and provided emergency commodities to sub-units while maintaining another element to conduct routine replenishment of the BG. Throughout the deployment, members from all nations worked diligently to learn from each other and become a fully integrated as one cohesive force to ensure the operability of the Battle Group. Many challenges awaited Maintenance Platoon at the beginning of the tour. The Maint O, Capt Guillaume Carrier, the ET, MWO Rob Carey and all the soldier-technicians of the 4 RCEME trades wasted no time going to work on the equipment to lower the Vehicle Off Road (VOR) level. The production tempo was incredibly high and, although they had never trained and worked together before, the personnel from 2 RCR and 2 Svc Bn which constituted the deployed Maintenance Platoon pulled together and enabled the eFP Battle Group’s equipment to be ready to train and fight at all time. Not only did the Maintainers do this for the Canadian fleet, but they also assisted almost all sending nations of the eFP with technical work. From welding on Polish tanks and Slovakian BMPs to pulling power packs from Slovenian vehicles, diagnosing Italian ARVs, doing textile work for the Albanians and [ 47  PRO PATRIA 2020 ]

Below: MCpl Chartrand and Cpl Fletcher performing armoured vehicle recovery with the AHSVS Wrecker in the training area of Camp Ādaži, Latvia. At right: Multinational Transport Platoon during Ex FURIOUS AXE in the training area of Camp Adazi, Latvia. recovering Spanish trucks in the field, the men and women of Maintenance Platoon demonstrated their outstanding professionalism and technical leadership to our NATO allies. Log Pl of 2 RCR deployed a Sect as the enhanced Forward Presence Battle Group RQMS Sect. During the 6-month deployment there were many achievements that the QM, Capt Erika Winter, the RQ, WO Kayla Parker, and the Materiel Management Technicians were able to accomplish and enable a high standard of support to a multinational battle group. The RQ and Warehouse 2IC worked with Sending Nations in the creation of a standardized defensive pack which was trialed and successfully confirmed on multiple multinational BG FTXs. This allowed the BG to create a total of six defensive packs for the future rotations to cycle between operational and training. LPO received approval for items not normally purchased in theatre to support the BG, for example light weight portable generators which an exemption to CANLANDGEN was approved. Maj Eqpt created streamlined tracking of BG vehicles and repatriation, ensuring overall accountability was maintained. Op REASSURANCE 20-02 was a very busy time with many challenges for the men and women of CSS coy, but they were able to go back home just after the Holiday season for a much needed rest with their loved ones and having the feeling of duty accomplished to the highest of standard. REAR PARTY JULIET COMPANY Submitted by Capt M. Standish With most of the battalion in Latvia and a contingent in Ukraine, 2 RCR stood up Juliet Company for the first time in over twenty years to be the rifle company of the rear party. Combining the elements of India and Golf companies which remained in the country, Juliet comprised three regular platoons and a fourth made up of the reserve for the deployed forces. [ 48  PRO PATRIA 2020 ]

Being on paper a regular rifle company, Juliet Coy had to accomplish all the ordinary tasks but in the most extraordinary of circumstances. The COVID environment made accomplishing usual tasks much more complicated and the requirements to support both the deployments and the Infantry School spread the company’s resources very thin. Despite the challenges, the company went out for two weeks in November on Ex ROYAL FALL and, thanks to the tireless work of all members of the Coy (and from the rest of the rear-party), who all went above and beyond, the culmination of the year’s work was successful. The company stood up in June under Major Urbankiewicz as eFP left for Latvia. The unit was just beginning to come back to work and the first few weeks were spent sorting out the manning and integrating the elements of the two companies that did not deploy. J Coy had a strong presence in the Bushman, and Pte Tarling from 12pl won the Pachino Day virtual 5km race that replaced the traditional soccer game due to COVID restrictions. After summer leave the Coy moved to the fall PCF cycle running LUVW, LAV Driver, IBMG, and AGLS courses. Despite the battalion being away, J Coy was mandated to work up to Level 3 live. The Coy was given excellent support from the entire rear-party, but most of the IBTS had to be manned from the internal coy leadership, and this led to a complicated balancing act for the NCOs who were very busy and did tremendous work as course instructors, range safety staff, support to the Infantry School, and as much as they could, leadership in their own platoons. The Coy completed a PWT 1-2 March and Shoot in late August, heading out to the range in platoon rotations. From early October the Coy, in cooperation with the ASAIC being run at the Infantry School, got up to Level 2 live, including a grenade range, a PWT 3 range with a night supplement, jungle lanes by day and night at both the Enniskillen and Drummond lanes, and finally section attacks, again both by day and night in the Enniskillen field firing ranges. C9 gunner from Juliet Coy laying down fire during the Level 3 live fire exercise. Nov 2020. Photo credit: MCpl P. Ford. [ 49  PRO PATRIA 2020 ]

Remembrance Day was muted due to the provincial and base restrictions but J Coy provided a limited honour guard for the ceremonies in Fredericton and Hartland. Immediately after Remembrance Day the Coy deployed to Olinville Bivouac on Ex ROYAL FALL. Due to staffing and qualification shortages it was decided to run the exercise dismounted and give the troops a chance to focus on the low level training that they were unable to get earlier due to the COVID restrictions. The first several days consisted of stands covering basic infantry tasks such as cam and concealment, various Actions On, vehicle check-points, det and platoon sized patrols, tank hunting teams, and platoon attacks. At night troops were sent off on various missions around Olinville beginning with detachment level recce patrols moving through to section and platoon level tasks. Section commanders had an opportunity to develop their troops by leading missions and helping their subordinates do their own, introducing troops to concepts that they normally would not see until later in their careers. The platoons spent more time practicing their section and platoon attacks along with a dry coy attack and the entire Ex culminated in the four platoons completing their live fire attacks with a LAV firebase. One attack involved a Leopard tank commanded by the Brigade Commander, which provided intimate support and added an extra element of battlefield inoculation. Following the exercise, the Coy returned to base, cleaned kit and was quickly sent off for block leave after taking part in the battalions modified Regimental Week. All of this provided a small, and modified, taste of the normal in the most abnormal of years. Sgt Kerekes and members of 11 Pl Juliet Coy conducting and attack during a Level 3 live fire exercise in the Gagetown training area. Nov 2020. Photo credit: MCpl P. Ford. [ 50  PRO PATRIA 2020 ]