Members of Juliet Company conducting Level 3 exercise in the Gagetown training area. Nov 2020. Photo credit: MCpl P. Ford. While 2020 was not an ideal year for anyone and was filled with so many unknowns and challenges, the members of 2 RCR’s rear party faced the difficulties head on. J Coy gladly took over the reins of our fine battalion and kept up the tradition of excellent service to our country. Whether it was preparing and staying ready for a possible domestic operation as part of the Atlantic Area’s IRU or training and validating their tactical capabilities to set themselves up for future tasks in 2021, J Coy stepped up and demonstrated the highest standard of the warrior spirit. And while the Coy will be disbanded upon the return of the deployments, the memories and lessons learned by all members of the Rear Party will help shape the careers of the many soldiers who were part of the Jogging J! Sgt Smith from 11 Pl Juliet Coy yells orders to his section during Level 3 live fire exercise. Nov 2020. Photo taken by MCpl P. Ford. [ 51 PRO PATRIA 2020 ]
KILO/LIMA “K/LIMA” COMPANY Submitted by Captain Stephen Creaser, OC K/Lima Coy The deployment of eFP BG 2002 led to the amalgamation of Kilo Company, Combat Support and Lima Company, Combat Service Support into one company to simplify command, control and administration. For the duration of the deployment the OC of “K/ Lima” Coy was Captain Stephen Creaser. K/Lima Coy was stood up during posting season so a number of different pers rotated through as Company Sergeant Major. The following pers were employed as K/Lima Coy CSM over the last year MWO Darrell Chaytor, MWO Barry Eddy, Sgt Chris Smith, MWO Lapierre and for the bulk of the time the CSM was WO Shannon Sutton. The strength of K/Lima varied from as low as 129 pers to as high as 163 depending on the time of year and postings in and out of the unit. Lt Hass joined K/Lima Coy as Company 2IC in late October just after completing his DP1.2 training and was a welcome addition in enabling the execution and completion of required company administration. K/Lima Coy was comprised of the following platoons and sections: Recce, Snipers, Sigs Pl, Pipes and Drums, 9er Tac, Ops Cell, the Deployment Support Cell, the DSM’s Cell, Trade Pioneers, Canteen and Kit Shop, Log Pl, Transport Pl, Maintenance Pl and the Battalion Orderly Room, the Fin Cell and Postal Clerk. The tempo for rear party was high throughout the deployments of Golf and Hotel Companies. One normally thinks of Rear Party as being an opportunity for some quiet or downtime. This however was not the case for K/Lima Coy. The COVID environment placed additional communication and workplace frictions on all, forcing adaptation and improvisation. The tasks and tempo of operations for rear party was high throughout the year. K/Lima coy was responsible for many tasks: support to deployed pers and ops, (workup training, deployment, and redeployment of Op Reassurance and Op Unifier) pers support to deployed families (Halloween and Christmas Lav 6.0 crewed by members of K/Lima Company provides flanking fire during Level 3 live fire exercise. Nov 2020. Photo taken by MCpl P. Ford. [ 52 PRO PATRIA 2020 ]
Drive-through’s) and the conduct of Rear party operations, (PCF, joint courses with other units on base, support to Juliet Coy level 3 Live Fire). Recce Platoon and Snipers continued to conduct training to maintain their specific and special skill sets. Snipers overseen by the UMS, WO Sanson ran a pre-sniper course to better prepare soldiers who were sent on the Bde Sniper course. Snipers also conducted ranges and training with the Infantry School Sniper Cell and participated in a Train the trainer event for a new range finder. Signals Platoon was very busy and led alternately by MCpl Gelinas and MCpl Francoeur and before he deployed, Sgt Bickerstaffe. They and their team dealt with the constant myriad of daily tasks to support all comms within the Bn, providing support in garrison and the field for all communication platforms: phones, computers, cell phones, and radios. They were also responsible to liaise with Base, eFP Latvia and Ukraine in the termination and activation of DWAN and cell phone accounts. They planned and ran a dismounted and mounted communications courses as part of PCF. Members of 2 RCR signals platoon team teamed up with Base sigs and entered a combined team for EX NOBLE SKYWAVE an international military sigs completion. They placed 30th overall and 11th in their category out of 70+ Teams. Pipes and Drums, led by Sgt James Firth provided 5 CDSB and CTC Lodger units with Pipes and Drum Band support IAW Covid restrictions. The 2 RCR Pipes and Drum Band deployed to the field near the end of J Coy’s Live Fire Ex to conduct a recruiting performance. The intent was to demonstrate to J Coy pers what the 2 RCR Pipes and Drums Band does, speak to how they are a proud part of the history and tradition of The 2nd Battalion and most importantly to see if anyone wanted become a member of the band. Their socially distanced performance generated interest from four members of J Coy to participate in the next Pipes and Drum course helping to ensure the sustainability of this institution. The Battalion Orderly Room, run by the Chief Clerk, Sgt Chanel Halverson, along with the Postal Clerk and Fin Cell worked with the Adjutant, the RQ, and Ms Heather Dykeman, the Bn Fin O to ensure administration, money and the mail all got to the correct place, on time, properly fill out and paid for in full. The Deployment Support Cell was run by Sgt Derrek Theriault. He and his team were tasked with communications and support to deployed members and their families, planning and execution of two unique events in the history of 2 RCR, the Halloween Drive Through and the Kids Christmas Party Drive Through. Both events were very successful with over 200 families attending each event. D56 was transformed into a drive-in-venue. On occasion it was a spooky place with jack-o-lanterns, giant skeletons, fog machines, and monsters handing out tricks and treats! The other event was a festive one with decorations, balloons, Christmas music, Santa, great food and presents. Members from all of the rear party companies assisted in staffing and running these events. There was a good deal of positive feedback on these events from the families that attended. These two events helped raise children’s, families and members of Bn morale during difficult times due to covid and deployments. [ 53 PRO PATRIA 2020 ]
Transport Platoon was led by Sgt Bryan Michels. His team conducted a myriad of tasks: from supporting the deployment and redeployment of Op Reassurance and Op Unifier pers, accounting for and getting everyone to and from the APOE and APOD; to running multiple iterations of MSVS SMP, LSVW and other Driver courses for 2 RCR and for 4 ESR. The deployments led to a shortage of leadership in the Bn and Sgt Michels assisted the Company Transport reps normally staffed by Sgts, but filled in by Cpls for Rear Party, as to how to manage a coy’s worth of vehicles. Maintenance Pl was left with 1/3 of its usual compliment of Maintainers but was responsible for maintaining 100% of the Bn’s, Vehicles, Kit and Weapons. This was a daunting task, but Maintenance Pl under the leadership of Sgt Fabian Boudreau rose to the challenge and tried a number of strategies to address the manning deficits they faced. 2 CMBG called upon 4XX and 5XX A Res pers to come work at 2 RCR as an opportunity to for A Res on the job training, additional employment opportunities for pers who may be under or un-employed in a COVID environment, and increased interoperability with the Reg F. 2 RCR received in total 9 A Res pers over the reporting period. This injection of additional pers helped alleviate the shortfall in manning and is an initiative that 2 RCR will attempt to continue in the future. Maintenance Pl attempted achieved efficiencies in work flow by creating a digital tracker, now displayed on the wall of the control office in Maintenance, of all vehicles in the shop, the techs required to work on them and the progress of repairs. This initiative increased efficiencies in workflow. Throughout the fall 2 RCR Maint Pl had the highest level of maintainer production hours in the Bde, with the fewest number of maintainers demonstrating to all other Maint Pls in Bde the standard to be achieved. Log Platoon was initially led by MWO Darrell Chaytor but once he was posted he was replaced by MWO Jason Lapierre. Both RQs were double hatted as the QM as well. Log Pl was reduced in manpower just like Maintenance platoon, but this did not deter them their ability to support all Bn activities or ensure proper material management accounting procedures were adhered to. Some of the tasks completed by Log Pl were the following: A deep clean of the warehouse was conducted and the following quantities of kit were removed freeing up considerable space within the building: 6 x triwalls of miscellaneous N/S items sent for disposal; 3 x triwalls of dormant stock; and 30 x triwalls of LAV 3 equipment that was not compatible with the LAV 6. This accounting, moving and reorganizing of this kit accounts for hundreds of person hours and was conducted by x 3 Material Management Technicians ad 2 Combat Storemen. They conducted these activities while concurrently maintaining daily support to the Bn and supporting the Juliet Coy Fall live fire exercise. A special mention needs to be made for the cooks of 2 RCR led by Sgt Ryland initially and then by WO Peter Doyle who was posted into replace him. The cooks at 2 RCR were tasked to support a number of events throughout the year: Pachino Day, the Bushman/Pasmul Day, the Halloween Drive Through, J Coy’s Live Fire Ex in the fall, K/Lima Coy’s extended hours, the PSWC Pancake Breakfast Fundraiser, the Soldier’s Appreciation Dinner and all the meals for the pers required to isolate on base returning from Latvia and the Ukraine. Every meal prepared by the cooks of 2 RCR was to an exceptional standard, great quality, fresh, and appetizing to both the eye and the palate. Many will attest that the surf and turf [ 54 PRO PATRIA 2020 ]
meal prepared for J Coy’s live fire ranges as one of the best meals they have ever had. Troops coming home from Latvia were disappointed in not being able to isolate at home but were pleased to hear that the 2 RCR cooks would be feeding them. Overall K/Lima coy was busy during the last year. Many challenges and frictions were presented due to covid and the reduced overall manning numbers. Yet the need and demand to continue to properly steward the personnel and material resources of The 2nd Bn remained. K/L Coy individually and collectively worked hard to support all rear party ops, deployed ops, families, 2 CMBG, CTC, 4 and 5 Div tasks. The dedication, initiative and professionalism of the soldiers, junior and senior leaders were the ingredients that led to the successes that K/Lima Coy and by extension Rear Party were able to achieve over this last year. To all members of K/Lima Coy thank you for your hard work and efforts, you demonstrated this last year how you are truly Second to none! “Pro Patria”
3rd Battalion The Royal Canadian Regiment LCol B.J. Irvine, CD The light fighters of 3rd Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment attacked into 2020 with determination and 3 RCR a steady hand. Focused on preparing the battalion for upcoming operations, the Road To War culminated with CWO Martens, MMM, CD an early deployment in January to the Joint Readiness Training Centre at Fort Polk, Louisiana for JRTC 20-03. The battalion was challenged with the US Army’s premiere Light Infantry Training event along with the epic weather that only the Southern US can provide. Fighting alongside the 4/25 BCT (Airborne) from Alaska, the 3 RCR Battalion Group was put thru its paces in a brigade level force on force, followed by a battalion level live fire exercise. The experience highlighted and reinforced the viability of Light Infantry doctrine and training, as well as the requirement for interoperability with our US Army counterparts. Once back on home soil the Battalion was postured to deploy on upcoming missions to Iraq and Ukraine when the COVID 19 pandemic struck, forcing a reset of international missions and a renewed focus on domestic operations, with the November Coy Group deploying to Trenton in support of Op GLOBE, while the remainder of the Battalion formed the 2 CMBG IRU in support of OP LASER. Regular training on Garrison Petawawa was replaced by a new synthetic environment as the battalion adapted to the realities of a COVID 19 lockdown through on-line courses, virtual meetings and immersive Force Health Protection Measures for essential in-person training. Not withstand the COVID 19 pandemic, 3 RCR continued to Force Generate for numerous expeditionary operations. As the Lead Mounting Unit for Op IMPACT Roto 3, 3 RCR trained and deployed 28 personnel into various roles in Kuwait, Iraq and Jordan, while contributing individual augmentation to 2 RCR’s deployment to Latvia, 2 RCHA’s deployment to Ukraine and the UN Observer Mission in South Sudan. Despite the unique challenges of training in a COVID-19 environment, 3 RCR executed a full PCF training cycle over the summer and fall to include Basic Reconnaissance, Basic Parachutist, Basic Pioneer, Basic Machinegun, and Driver Wheel courses, implementing new and creative Force Health Protection Measures to [ 56 PRO PATRIA 2020 ]
2018, 2019, 2020 LGen J.E. Vance Award for Leadership Rank of Sgt winners and 2020 LGen J.E. Vance Award for Leadership winner receive their keeper awards from Col Vass, Comd 4 CDSG and CWO Durnford, SM 4 CDSG. protect our team from COVID 19, while continuing essential training. The annual training cycle culminated with the conduct of a complex section live fire exercise and the 2 CMBG Para Coy Gp airborne exercise. Throughout this unique year, we have sought every opportunity to build the 3 RCR team, conducting immersive Professional Development to include battlefield visits to Shiloh and Gettysburg, the 1st Annual Pachino Day Fishing Tournament, Adventure Training, and the 3 RCR’s team dominating the 2 CMBG Iron Warrior competition. Like every year, we said goodbye to many old face and welcomed new members of the Battalion. This spring Chief Warrant Officer Jack Durnford assumed the role of The 4th Canadian Division Support Group’s Sergeant Major, replaced by Chief Warrant Officer Mike Martens as Regimental Sergeant-Major. At APS the turnover continued with Deputy Commanding Officer Major Raphael Mackenzie departing for the Joint Command and Staff Program in Toronto and Major Grant McDonald and Master Warrant Officer Ian Bennett being promoted and assuming the Regiment Sergeant-Major of WATC, replaced by Master Warrant Officer Patrick Lemieux as Drill Sergeant Major. Throughout the year numerous members of the Battalion were recognition for their hard work and achievements including: Sgt M.D. Landry, Chief of Defence Staff Commendation; WO R.F.M. Lisk – Comd Canadian Army Commendation; Capt R.J. Harding - LGen J.E. Vance Award for Leadership; Sgt J.K.M. Hogan - LGen J.E. Vance Award for Leadership Rank of Sgt; Maj M.P. Coughlin – Task Force Jerusalem Commander’s Commendation; Sgt B.C.M Hurley– Combat Training Centre Commander’s Commendation; Cpl J.D John. – 3 RCR Top Candidate Basic Sniper Course; Cpl M.A.B. Manych– Top Candidate Basic Recce Patrolman Course; and Pte S.A. Balston– Top Candidate Basic Assault Pioneer Course. [ 57 PRO PATRIA 2020 ]
JOINT READINESS TRAINING CENTER 20-03 In January 2020, the 3 RCR Battalion Group, “Task Force Rooster”, augmented with enablers from 7 units of 2 CMBG and 7 PRes units from the 4th Cdn Div deployed to Joint Readiness Training Center (JRTC), Fort Polk, Louisiana to participate in a brigade light infantry validation exercise, the first ever Canadian light infantry battalion to do so. This world renowned, premier light infantry exercise, saw TF Rooster join the 4th Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), 25th Infantry Division “Spartans” from Anchorage, Alaska as it faced a challenging and realistic enemy fighting in the DATE Pacific scenario. Following a rapid RSOM and integration with US Army Liaison Teams and USMC ANGLICO, TF Rooster entered the fight supported by air and aviation from 430 Sqn and 450 THS. Deploying its Recce Platoon Pathfinders cross FLOT to conduct a night freefall insertion onto an unmarked drop zone, to enable Task Force Rooster patch worn by all members of the 3 RCR Battaltion the insertion of the brigade cavalry Group during the conduct of JRTC 20-03. squadron, TF Rooster inserted key combat support elements including Mortars, Direct Fire Support, and Snipers conducted via airmobile to establish supporting positions for the upcoming attack on an urban village. After the initial insertions, November and Oscar Coys conducted a ground assault convoy, under the cover of darkness into the AOR, using the thick fog and heavy rain to mask their movement, allowing TF Rooster to infiltrate dismounted into the Attack Position. Oscar Coy, led by Maj Tremaine and MWO McSpadden, would lead the Bn assault on the complex village, while November Coy, led by Maj Desotti and MWO McGlynn, moved into a supporting position using a wadi as cover, to the North of the village. With maximum aggression Oscar Coy overran the enemy, secured the objective and began the task of fortifying their new position. Meanwhile, Para Coy, led by Major Summers and MWO White, were attached to 2-509th Airborne Bn to conduct an brigade level airborne Joint Forcible Entry Operation, where they seized a portion of the drop zone. TF Rooster fought for several days isolated from the remainder of the brigade, until a ground assault convoy from Romeo Coy, led by Maj Gapp and MWO Mercer, could resupply and reunite the brigade. Having achieve entry into the exercise, over the next two weeks TF Rooster would conduct further offensive and defensive operations within the immersive JRTC environment. [ 58 PRO PATRIA 2020 ]
Clockwise from top: TF Rooster attacking enemy positions in a built up area. Sgt Collins and Pte. Riggin, Para Coy/3 RCR suppress enemy positions during the battalion live fire at JRTC 20-03. Members of Task Force Rooster at the Fort Polk “TIGERLAND Arch” upon completion of JRTC 20-03. The light fighters of Tasks Force Rooster attack enemy defensive positions during the battalion live fire range at JRTC 20-03. [ 59 PRO PATRIA 2020 ]
JRTC 22-03 culminated in a brigade level fire attack which allowed TF Rooster to conduct a live fire battalion attacked, incorporating live pioneer and MICLIC breaching, company assaults of dug in trench positions, while being supported by battalion and brigade enablers. Whether fighting against a robust conventional and irregular enemy, dealing with unruly civilians and nosey reporters or surviving a Louisiana hurricane, countless snakes or packs of wild horses, this exercise tested the fortitude, resourcefulness, and flexibility of TF Rooster soldiers, providing a first class training and integration opportunity with our light fighter counterparts in the US Army. MIKE COMPANY (PARA) While 2020 was a year of challenges for the CAF, Para Coy made the most of it, conducting PCF and Airborne training. Under direction of Maj Siversky and MWO Black, PARA Coy conducted a Nav exercise, a sect lvl SOP exercise, multiple IBTS ranges and classes, numerous advanced shooting packages, a B Para serial, and an eleven day Parachute Company Group (PCG) exercise, (Exercise PERSISTENT PEGASUS). Moreover, both the B Para course and the PCG ex were executed in conjunction with 436 Squadron’s TALEX 20. The airframe support that TALEX 20 provided was critical to development of the PCG as it allowed for numerous air drops, (pers and equipment). For the first time the 2 CMBG PCG, made up of Para Coy and members from 2 CER, 2 Fld Amb, and 2 RCHA, was able to exercise its self, and was able to demonstrate its capability in the exercises culmination, an Airborne Raid on a Seacan village. The Airborne Raid led by Maj Siversky and MWO Black saw 2 Pl Comd, Lt O’Keefe, be the first to assault the village, followed up by Acting 1 Pl Comd, Sgt Hamilton, both resolute and undaunted as they closed with and destroyed the enemy. Not to be forgotten was Cpl Members of the 2 CMBG Para Coy Group conduct full equipment jump onto DZ ANZIO. AIRBORNE! [ 60 PRO PATRIA 2020 ]
Para Company staging equipment for airborne operations at JRTC 20-03. Sanderson, who due to the inherent nature of parachuting, was vaulted into command of the Weapons Platoon and while doing so, earned himself ‘Paratrooper of the Exercise’. NOVEMBER COY 2020 was another rewarding year for the Officers, SNCO’s and NCMs of November Company. The focus throughout was the generation of all ranks for named operations within Canada and overseas. The deployment year started with 3rd Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment deploying en mass to the Joint Readiness Training Centre at Fort Polk, Louisiana to validate as light fighters for a planned rotation of Operation IMPACT in IRAQ. It would be during this deployment that COVID-19 pandemic mitigation strategies were being developed back in Canada. Focused on the enemy “in the box” for January; February would bring and unique and unseen adversary to the Company. In early February the notification came to prepare November Company, the 2 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group Incident Response Unit’s Vanguard Company, to support the Government of Canada’s Operation GLOBE 20-01 efforts at CFB Trenton. At operations end in late February, hundreds of Canadians were successfully repatriated from Wuhan, China; and COVID-19 stricken Cruise Ships from Japan and the U.S.A. For two weeks the men and women of the Company supported the Red Cross, and other aid organization volunteers, with the screening and provision real life support to COVID-19 exposed Canadians in quarantine. This deployment would serve as advanced warning of what was in store for the remainder of 2020. November Company returned to Petawawa just as the virus in Ontario spread and Operation LASER redefined risk management in the workplace. As a sub unit accustomed to face- [ 61 PRO PATRIA 2020 ]
Members of November Company don COVID personnel protective equipment to-face communication we during Operation GLOBE in March 2020. grappled with the challenge of hosting realistic training in the synthetic environment. There were success and failures along the way and most importantly lessons learned for the second- wave instigated return to the virtual space at year’s end. Concurrently the theatre mssion specific training and deployment requirements for a now reduced, and leadership oriented, Operation IMPACT were completed. End June and Early July saw the deployment of The Company Second-in Command (Captain Snook), the Company Weapons Platoon Commander (Lieutenant Price) and Close Protection team member (Corporal Juch). The post-summer leave period saw the Battalion return to business as usual with multiple Primary Combat Function Cycles balanced against institutional tasks supporting training. If you were in November Company at this time you were committed to individual training somewhere in Canada, primarily Petawawa, Meaford or Gagetown. The remaining half-sized Company was extremely well lead over this period by a newly arrived Company Sargent Major (MWO Pinchin) who worked alongside the Company’s only remaining untasked Junior Officer (Lieutenant Fenney). The Company was able to advance the careers of the Battalion’s junior and intermediate soldiers by executing back-to-back serials of the Basic Machine Gunner Course and a serial of Army Field Firing Range Safety Officer Course. Sgt Bonacchi and WO Huckle distinguished themselves as superb training coordinators, staff mentors and champions of flexibility as course range templates and infrastructure were dovetailed into the Battalion plan to validate all available section leadership and members. Insert 3RCR_Photo10 – caption - N Coy Pro Patria Ex UNIFIED ROSE – “Rehearsals, Rehearsals, Rehearsals!” Coached by CSOR, Pte Curley and Pte Knox conduct rehearsals for a deliberate attack of a complex objective during November Company’s collective fall training exercise. With collective company training time at a premium November Company focused its windows on patrolling, airmobile drills, urban operations and escape and evasion. With just enough soldiers and leadership simultaneously available in late October, November Company deployed to the training area for a platoon offensive exercise in a company context. Ex UNIFIED ROSE afforded the Officer Commanding (Major Coughlin) the opportunity to orient [ 62 PRO PATRIA 2020 ]
the Company onto simultaneous, recce patrol N Coy Pro Patria Company Christmas T-Shirt – “Speed defined, platoon raid objectives in a force-on- and Violence” - Sgt Dober is looking lean and mean in the force fight at night. November Company T-Shirt designed by MCpl Morris. For the rank and file members of November Company the second half of 2020 became characterised by the slogans “shoot, move and communicate” and “speed and violence” as a year’s worth of rounds of nearly every nature went downrange in a three month period. The latter slogan appears on the 2020 November Company T-Shirt presented at Christmas in appreciation for the complete rejuvenation of the November Company lines organized by Company Quartermaster, Warrant Officer Rick Burnette. Operationally, November Company closed the year welcoming home returning members from Operation REASSURANCE and Operation IMPACT while preparing 11 persons to depart on Operation UNIFIER. Institutionally, 2020 ended as it began with a worsening pandemic situation and increasing Force Protection Health Measures ushering in a second move to the synthetic environment. It is therefore entirely suitable that at the time of writing, November Company has a keen eye on Operation VECTOR, and is poised as the 3 RCR’s lead for the 2 CMBG IRU. OSCAR COMPANY Led by Maj Vogel as OC and MWO Ogilvie as CSM, Oscar Company (O Coy) rose to the occasion and provided challenging and valuable training, in spite of the uncertainties imposed by the evolving COVID environment. In support of the Battalion’s preparation for 2 CMBG’s Iron Warrior, the domestic IRU and several named operations, O Coy executed a grueling forced march, rehearsed for the IRU Vanguard and follow-on roles, oversaw first aid training, and constructed a dynamic field firing range. Ex ROYAL WARRIOR was held in August and saw nearly 60 soldiers from across 3 RCR undertake a distance of approximately 55 km of combined ruck marching, portaging, and canoeing. Participants portaged in pairs from 3 RCR to Jubilee Lodge, before paddling up the Ottawa River to Black Point, located in the Petawawa Training Area. From Black Point, the soldiers portaged their canoes to a drop-off point only a “short” 5 kms away, before commencing on the unknown distance march through the training area. Completing their march, they then recovered their canoes for a third stretch of portaging to a launch point back at Black Point. This final paddle took them to their day’s final destination, a beach located in Chalk Bay.
AFFRSO candidates ensure the safety of the range as members of N Coy move through the Level 2 live-fire on 22 Nov 20 Maj Adam Vogel & MWO Steve Ogilvie on Ex ROYAL WARRIOR A member of O Coy posts a grenade, destroying an enemy trench on Nov 24th. In the background, a small enemy structure remains to be cleared. LCol Ben Irvine congratulates CWO Mike Martens on Private Inderjeet Sandhu (O Coy) approaches completion of the Iron Warrior. the finish line of the Iron Warrior competition. Corporal Jeremy Mazerolle crosses the finish line of Iron Warrior. [ 64 PRO PATRIA 2020 ]
3 RCR competitors prepare to step-off on the Iron Warrior competition. From left to right: Lieutenant Aaron Fenney, Captain Pat Kelley, and Warrant Officer Andrew MacLeod. The second day of the exercise saw participants launching their canoes and paddling back to Jubilee Lodge before rucking back to the unit lines. In total, the soldiers travelled across rugged ground and fought windy river conditions for two days, completing an arduous trek that included over 14 km of portaging. The individual and collective physical training completed 3 RCR’s Champion Iron Warrior Team. In front center, holding the plaque, from by 3 RCR’s soldiers paid off right to left: Warrant Officer Mario Larocque (first place, Male Category), Captain Derek substantially in the 2 CMBG Iron Warrior competition. This Milner (second place, Male Category), and Master Corporal Katelynn Brennan (first year’s competition was held over place, Female Category). two days, and the nature of the force health protection measures meant that all units had competitors spread across both dates. On the first race day, in the “Males Category”, 3 RCR took the top two positions: Corporal Black finished first with a time of 4:19:28.0, and was soon followed by Captain Milner with a time of 4:23:59.1. On the second day, Master Corporal Brennan from 3 RCR was the top finisher in the “Females Category” with a time of 6:34:32.2, [ 65 PRO PATRIA 2020 ]
while the top two positions in the “Males Category” were again taken by 3 RCR, with Warrant Officer Larocque in the lead at 4:19:11.4 and Private Froese with 4:59:59.3. Overall, the light fighters of 3 RCR were a formidable force, taking first place amongst 2 CMBG’s Major Units. Following the Iron Warrior competition, O Coy prepared to take on responsibilities as 3 RCR’s lead sub-unit for the domestic Immediate Response Unit (IRU) tasking. The training and rehearsals for this were conducted against a wide backdrop of Primary Combat Function (PCF) courses run by the unit, and geared towards preparation for a major exercise at the Joint Readiness Training Center (JRTC) in 2022, in Louisiana, USA. At the forefront of these requirements were driver courses, including SMP Conversion, Driver Wheel, ATV, MRAZR, and Air Brakes. After enabling the unit’s ability to move itself around the battlefield, it also invested in its light infantry capabilities through the completion of courses such as Basic Machine Gunner, Basic Pioneer, Basic Para, Automatic Grenade Launcher System (AGLS), First Aid, Basic Communications and Army Field Firing Range Safety Officer (AFFRSO). Each of these courses provided its own challenges due to the evolving nature of COVID force health protection measures, but eager troops, coupled with superb course staff, ensured the unit was able to complete these courses to the high standards expected of 3 RCR. The peak training experience achieved over the fall period was the dismounted Level 2 (Section) live-fire range, designed within a Level 3 (Platoon) context. O Coy, in cooperation with the AFFRSO course run by November Company (N Coy), ran this training on behalf of the Battalion from 18-25 November. Platoon and Section Commanders were presented with a challenging series of objectives including a wire obstacle breach, enemy trenches, a small urban component, and an enemy counter-offensive. The training was held by day and by night, and integrated flanking and overhead fire by the AFFRSO course’s machine gun crews. Oscar Company battled through 2020 with great resolve and dedication. Its soldiers demonstrated impressive personal fortitude, adapted their instructional techniques to the constraints imposed by the viral threat, completed their rotation as the unit’s primary IRU sub-unit, and fought through a challenging objective to prove their progressing skills in conventional warfare. Now having entered the New Year, O Coy looks forward towards the next major collective training event, Exercise ROYAL CAULDRON, where its soldiers and leaders will be challenged with a Level 3 (Platoon) live-fire exercise nested within a Level 4 (Company) context. QUEBEC COMPANY Quebec Company (Q Coy) – also know as Combat Support Company – is home to the Battalion’s speciality platoons of Signals, Mortars, Direct Fire Support (DFS), Reconnaissance, Snipers and Assault Pioneers. Led by Capt Sattler and CSM Leclair, Q Coy had an exceptionally busy yet successful year post-isolation, all possible due to the work of an amazing team of officers, NCOs and the relentless work of the company operations Sergeant, Sgt Lemieux. Due to the intensive qualification requirements of these speciality platoons, Q Coy’s main effort this year has been to improve its platoons’ operational capabilities and bolster its ranks through the conduct of a robust PCF cycle. SIGNALS PLATOON With the majority of Signals platoon deployed on Op REASSURANCE and Op IMPACT, Sgt Hamdani filled the role of acting platoon commander and with the hard work of his team [ 66 PRO PATRIA 2019 ]
managed to conduct three Basic Communications courses while continuing to support Battalion operations and take part in the international exercise Ex NOBLE SKYWAVE. This exercise tested the Battalions High Frequency capabilities with communications being transmitted with teams as far away as Peru. MORTAR PLATOON Mortar Platoon led by Capt Milner and WO Larocque focused heavily on capability development within the platoon over this past year. As mortars is a relatively new weapon system that has returned to the infantry, the team focused heavily on enabling their soldiers to attain the necessary basic and advanced qualifications to reach full operational capability. This led Mortar platoon to supporting the Intermediate Mortar Course conducted by the Infantry School in Gagetown, making 3 RCR the first infantry battalion in the CAF to drop bombs as an integral platoon. DIRECT FIRE SUPPORT PLATOON DFS platoon is another new platoon that has been added to 3 RCR’s arsenal. They specialize in heavy weapon systems and anti-armour through the use of HMGs, AGLS and TOW weapons systems. WO Mohammed assumed control of the platoon in July and immediately developed a comprehensive training plan that included multiple live fire ranges and integrated the Toronto Scottish Regiment into its exercises, as its affiliated Primary Reserve unit. They also conducted an AGLS course and Rifle Section Commanders Pre-Course in order to qualify soldiers and assist the junior leaders of the Battalion shake off the cob webs after time spent in isolation due to COVID-19. Members of the 3 RCR Basic Reconnaissance Patrolman course prepare for their final FTX. [ 67 PRO PATRIA 2020 ]
RECONNAISSANCE PLATOON Recce platoons main effort this year was the conduct of the 2 CMBG Basic Reconnaissance Patrolman (BRP) 0175 course. Led by Capt Kelley and WO Macleod, the course welcomed candidates from 1st Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment (1 RCR), 2 Field Ambulance and Army Reservists from The Queen’s Own Rifles of Canada and The Cameron Highlanders of Ottawa. This year, air support from 450 Tactical Helicopter Squadron (THS) and 427 Special Operations Aviation Squadron (SOAS) provided insertion and extraction platforms throughout all training evolutions. 1 RCR facilitated land movements with Light Armoured Vehicles (LAVs) and 2nd Combat Engineer Regiment (2 CER) enabled amphibious operations with Assault Boats. BRP 0175 concluded with a 10-day FTX where candidates led Mike Company with attached Assault Pioneers of 3 RCR and Combat Engineers of 2 CER onto an objective for their final attack. Overall, the course was a great success and continued to strengthen the interoperability of Brigades as part of the STAR (Strengthening the Army Reserve) program. SNIPER PLATOON Under the leadership of the Unit Master Sniper WO Barrett, the snipers of 3 RCR had another busy year conducting a pre-sniper course as well as assisting in the conduct of the 2CMBG Basic Sniper course. A number of snipers had the opportunity to conduct international courses with Cpl John attending the United States Marine Corp Mountain Sniper Course and Cpl McClenaghan attending the United States Army Ranger School. The year capped off with multiple snipers deploying on Op UNIFIER to the Ukraine in order to teach our allies in Europe how to increase their own sniper craft. Members of 3 RCR conduct live breeching as part of the Basic Pioneer Course. [ 68 PRO PATRIA 2020 ]
Pioneers from 3 RCR and Hasty P’s, supported by Sappers from 2 CER conduct live breaching during JRTC battalion live fire. ASSAULT PIONEER PLATOON Assault Pioneer platoons’ main effort this year was the conduct of the first, all infantry staff, in- house Basic Assault Pioneer (BAP) course with the support of the Hasting’s and Prince Edward Regiment (Hasty P’s). This course planned by MCpl Ibbotson and conducted by Lt Filiatrault and WO Gauthier was a huge success. Not only did it provide crucial force generation within 3 RCR, but also set the conditions for further integration of the Hasty P’s in line with the new STAR program. The skills and knowledge that candidates learned and developed on this course will enable 3 RCR to continue operating “Ubique” everywhere. 3 RCR - STRENGTHENING THE ARMY RESERVE 3 RCR took an active role this year on bolstering our relationships with our affiliated Primary Reserve units, building off our successes augmenting our forces during Ex JRTC in the previous year. This was accomplished through their integration on our PCF cycle and exercises, with the end goal of strengthening both the 3 RCR Combat Support Pls and the PRes Mission Task Pls. This was accomplished during our PCF cycle by integrating the Cameron Highlanders of Ottawa, Queens Own Rifles (QOR) of Canada and Hasting’s and Prince Edward Regiment (Hasty P’s) candidates as well as instructors into our Basic Parachutist, Basic Reconnaissance Patrolman and Basic Assault Pioneer courses. Further integration on exercises came in the form of a combined Para Coy and QOR jump in Trenton and a joint Live Fire Ex involving 3 RCR’s DFS Pl and its affiliated unit, the Toronto Scottish Regiment. Even with strict COVID-19 measures and the minimal authorized training period this year, 3 RCR has managed to build relationships and interoperability that will no doubt pay dividends to both the regular and reserve forces in the future. ROMEO COMPANY Romeo Coy, led by Maj Summer, then Capt Merriman, and MWO Sheppard, continued to have a busy year enabling training, supporting operational deployments and integrating new equipment and capabilities into the battalion. 2020 saw 3 RCR receive their allotment of the [ 69 PRO PATRIA 2020 ]
(Left to right) Cpl Ryan McLeod, MCpl Dave Campbell, MCpl Patrick Thompson, and MCpl Dave Black proudly displaying RCEME colours at the CFB Petawawa airborne monument on the day they were presented with their maroon beret. new Mack SMP trucks. This included the cargo, cargo w/crane, load handling system (LHS), and a much needed MRT variant. In total, the battalion received 36 new pieces of equipment. What does this mean from a maintenance perspective? New specialty tooling was required, further training for technicians, and real estate to store a litany of new components. Luckily, during this same time frame, we also began divesting our aging MLVW fleet. Through close and detailed coordination with multiple other units, 3 RCR Maint, led by MCpl Joel Robinson, ensured the proper preservation procedures were completed before the trucks left unit lines. As a result of the technician’s hard work in an increasingly trying environment, 3 RCR was the first to have their MLVWs and components completely divested throughout 2CMBG, positively affecting the unit’s VOR and making room for the impressive new fleet of Mack SMP trucks which made their big debut during JRTC ‘20. But what good are new trucks without people to drive them? Throughout 2020, Movements Pl was hard at work planning and conducting a myriad of driver courses to maintain force generation of qualified drivers and operators. Not only for the new Mach SMP fleet, but the existing fleet to include ATV, LOSV, MRZR, LUVW, MLVW, Driver examiner, and Driver Wheeled. Despite stringent force health protection measures, these driver courses were conducted diligently and provided the Bn with newly qualified drivers to enable versatile and swift tactical movement of the LIB. QM Pl received no respite throughout the 2020 year. The unsung heroes, working tireless hours and conducting extensive coordination between internal and external entities to ensure 3 RCR had the equipment and resources it needed, when it needed them, enabling mission success at every turn. The Pl as a whole started the year off with a bang, putting [ 70 PRO PATRIA 2020 ]
their expertise and resourcefulness to the test during JRTC ’20. There they took part in what proved to be a rigorous experience of supporting a LIB in battle over an extended period of time and under harsh conditions. Many valuable lessons were learned which have shaped the foundations for continued development of CSS capabilities within the new LIB construct. Throughout the remainder of the year and within the trying and restrictive COVID-19 environment, the individual elements of QM Pl continued to provide unwavering support to the unit. The Rigger Section provided close support to the B-Para courses, and, most notably, Ex ROYAL PEGASUS which saw the 2 CMBG Para Coy Grp conduct a series full equipment para descents and heavy equipment drops on DZ ANZIO. The FSA and HRA sections found themselves working overtime to process all of the administrative requirements, not just for routine training and events, but to enable to force generation of soldiers ready to deploy on multiple operations to include: Op IMPACT, Op UNIFIER, and Op REASSURANCE. 3 RCR Foods Section found themselves in the thick of a new fight early on in the infamous year of 2020. In March, 3 RCR Foods Section deployed to CFB Trenton, in order to support the CAF response to the growing threat of the COVID-19 pandemic. This response came in the form of Operation (Op) GLOBE 20-01. The goal of this operation was to support the Government of Canada’s efforts to receive and provide temporary accommodations to Canadians returning from Wuhan, China. Approximately 700 Canadians we repatriated and reunited with their families upon completion of this Op. The cooks from 3RCR that were deployed to support Op GLOBE were instrumental in its success – having provided over 15,000 meals and coordinated the efforts between the CAF and other entities, such as the Public Health Agency of Canada and the Canadian Red Cross. They were also the first to establish a new set of feeding standards and food preparation procedures that would enable bulk feeding, while greatly 3 RCR meal set-up for Commander’s visit respecting FHP measures. [ 71 PRO PATRIA 2020 ]
reducing the risk of COVID transmission. These standards formed the basis of the COVID environment-specific guidance on bulk feeding promulgated by the Canadian Army. The 3 RCR Foods Section proved that not only were they capable of responding to emergencies on short notice, but that they could thrive and do so in an effective, and exemplary manner. Their efforts brought great credit to 3 RCR and The Regiment. The work done by the QM Pl exemplifies the Royal Canadian Logistics Services motto – Nulli Secundus – Second to None. The inherent challenges and hazards posed by the restrictive and unforgiving COVID-19 environment did not deter the soldiers of Romeo Company. Instead, these talented and dedicated soldiers rose to the occasion of operating in a new environment with new risks and ROEs and proved the unwavering character of the soldiers within 3 RCR. SUDAN Major Salsbury from 3 RCR deployed in November 2020 to the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS). He was delayed by several months due to COVID-19 which has affected nearly every nation and their deployment timelines on this mission. Maj Salsbury is the DTFC for the Canadian contingent and works in the Joint Operations Centre, UN House, Juba. He is the only RCR member within the country and 1 of 2 infantry officers. He is expected to return home in summer 2021. UNMISS is the largest UN peace keeping mission at this time. It has approximately 17 000 uniformed military and police members. It has a truly international makeup with representation from the 5 Eyes nations, almost all European countries, Rwanda, India, Ethiopia, Nepal, Bangladesh, Ghana, China, Mongolia, and Thailand to name a few. Maj Ryan Salsbury stands next to the UNMISS Welcome sign at the gates of UN House [ 72 PRO PATRIA 2020 ]
Maj Ryan Salsbury, with Australian and Bosnia officers, visit a local school as a part of a community outreach project. Exercise Polemology Royal - 3 RCR Officers study the Gettysburg Battlefield, Feb 2020 [ 73 PRO PATRIA 2020 ]
4th Battalion The Royal Canadian Regiment LCol P.J. Reintjes, CD Once again, the 4th Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment (4 RCR) has had a challenging, highly 4 RCR demanding and fulfilling year. 4 RCR supported operations throughout the 31 Canadian Brigade Group CWO R.S. Morris, CD (31 CBG) area of operations and also participated in an eventful if somewhat scaled back training schedule for 2020. 4 RCR was a key player in Operation LASER, the domestic operation in support of the WOG efforts to contain COVID-19. With many of our soldiers active on operational commitments, a number of dedicated soldiers aided their community by stepping out on domestic deployments. We would be remise to not recognized the soldiers of 4 RCR for their outstanding dedication to the CAF and their communities while also balancing obligations with family commitments, studies and full-time civilian occupations and careers. The parade strength of the battalion is currently 218 active all ranks. Despite much of 4 RCR’s focus being on domestic and foreign operations, the unit has seen a significant growth in basic soldier skills. The unit’s recruiting has continued to progress and has seen a much needed increase in its officer corps, with an additional 3 new subaltern officers ready for development under a strong and experienced corps of senior NCOs. As the unit continues to grow, the emphasis on training soldiers for conventional actions remains a priority. As a result, 31 CBG’s battle-school (BSL) remains a key institution for the Bde and 4 RCR remains one of the leading contributors to both course candidates and instructor positions. 4 RCR instructors strive to achieve professional competence and to master their trade while leading by example. Under the command of LCol Pete Reintjes, 4 RCR has experienced another successful year of growth and operational commitment. Tango Company remained the individual training (IT) company focusing on preparing new soldiers for future courses with an aim to stand up as a second full rifle company at the end of summer. X-Ray Company remains as the Combat Service Support/ Admin Company and Sierra Company continues as the [ 74 PRO PATRIA 2020 ]
sole rifle company at this time, focusing on maintaining platoon and section level skills and tactics in an urban environment. With the consistent growth the unit has experienced over the past two years, 4 RCR has expanded its footprint on Wolseley Barracks apartment 5 of the historic A block. This expansion will ensure greater efficiency for Sierra and Tango Company while providing the companies with the much needed office space for their leadership and shelter for the soldiers. Battalion HQ anticipates moving into apartment 5, the historic and original command space, upon completion of renovations. SIERRA COMPANY Sierra Company saw another successful year with three oversized platoons, two in London and one in Stratford, Ontario. Maj Brett Griffiths continued to serve as Officer Commanding (OC) Sierra Company where he oversaw Exercise Royal Frost and the conduct of a Bn run Winter Warfare course. In the summer of 2020, Maj Griffiths handed over Coy command to Maj Peter Keane with Capt William Assis and WO Christopher Murdy remaining as the company second in command and company sergeant-major respectively. Platoon level leadership saw few changes with 1 Platoon is still commanded by Lt Nathan Third, assisted by Sgt Ben Morgan as Pl 2IC. 2 Platoon is now under the leadership of 2Lt Dave McHugh, and WO Gregory Knapp as Pl 2IC while 3 Platoon is now commanded by 2Lt Cameron Brice-Elion and Sgt Kurt Elliot as Pl 2IC. Due to the global pandemic, the training mandate shifted, requiring 4 RCR to achieve only section dry BTS. Sierra Company seized this opportunity to train in a company context conducting an impressive advance to contact exercise throughout the 4CDTC Meaford training area, complete with a responsive enemy force from Tango Company. Sierra Company was able to effectively conduct a multi-kilometer trace that spanned several days duration. The company then transitioned to section level urban operations and conducted training in a complex urban environment. TANGO COMPANY 2020 was a busy year for Tango Company in 4 RCR. OC T Coy, Major Kane Erickson, deployed to The Congo on Op Crocodile in the summer months and was replaced by Acting OC T Coy, Capt Jeffrey Burke upon the completion of his RSM duties and commissioning. Their role saw them plan, administer and execute several activities related to the individual training of soldiers within the battalion. Early in 2020 saw T Coy leadership plan and participate in a Winter Warfare Basic course, with both staff and candidates attending from the company. The company also planned and executed a DP1 Infantry supplemental course, finishing the course in March 2020, which trained and qualified soldiers on platoon weapons systems. Many soldiers in Tango Company were sent away for Reserve Summer Training (RST) to be employed on training courses across the country. The soldiers who remained in London and Stratford garrisons for the summer were able to participate in Full Time Summer Employment and complete a medley DLN courses and online training. The fall season provided an opportunity for T Coy to intake new recruits and prepare them for their weekend BMQ courses. It also provided an opportunity for the company to run another DP 1 Supplemental course, and support S Coy on weekend exercises as OPFOR for offensive operations and the running of IBTS ranges for the unit. As a growing company, T Coy is looking forward to a fun and productive year in 2021. [ 75 PRO PATRIA 2020 ]
Major Kane Erickson, 4 RCR, volunteering at a local orphanage during Op Crocodile. X-RAY COY X-Ray Company comprises the Battalion HQ and the full-time and administrative staff of the 4th Battalion. Upon handover of S Coy, Maj Brett Griffiths took on a dual role as OC X-Ray and DCO 4 RCR with MWO Markus Brants as CSM X-Ray. Capt Josh MacAulay remains in the position of Adjutant and Operations Officer and has performed admirably. The Bn Ops cell continues to be manned by WO Jason Mattice and MCpl Shane Wilson. Sgt Petras Stone and MCpl Harrison Genereux continue to do an outstanding job in the RQ shop ensuring kit and equipment remains top notch for our soldiers. Sgt Harold Van Galen continues to fill the role of battalion transport officer. The Battalion received a new chaplain, Capt Quenton Little who has been doing an outstanding job in his new role. The assistance and spiritual guidance he provides to the soldiers and leadership of 4 RCR has been instrumental throughout the COVID-19 Pandemic. 2Lt Mohammad Abdelhadi took over the position of Finance Officer for the battalion. Despite all the shut downs and changes this year, the BOR managed to process hundreds of claims and prepare 101 files for various deployments Having been assigned as the 31 TBG HQ, 2020 proved to be a very busy year for the battalion and in particular battalion HQ. In addition to regular duties, battalion HQ staff busied themselves with organizing three TBG exercises. Ops, RQ and the BOR transitioned from task to exercise to operations all year long, doing a stand-up job of supporting the Bn in all of its endeavors. Exercise Trillium Dragon saw the 4th Canadian Division and 31 Territorial Battalion Group respond to a simulated domestic operation, combating severe flooding throughout Ontario. [ 76 PRO PATRIA 2020 ]
TRAINING HIGHLIGHTS Due to the unfortunate nature of COVID-19 shutting down much of the CAF, soldiers of 4 RCR also had their training cut short. However, with great will, came great perseverance from all levels within the chain of command. During the lockdown soldiers were required to take part in a number of virtual presentations, with topics that included IBTS, military history, historic military figures, and military campaigns and battles. WINTER WARFARE BASIC 4 RCR conducted a Winter Warfare Basic course during January and February of 2020. The unit conducted the course over its weekly training nights, with the practical portion of the course, taking place during Ex Royal Frost I and Ex Royal Frost II in January and February respectively in the area of the CO’s ranch with the cooperation of several neighbors. Candidates practiced the fundamentals of snow-based fortification building, snowshoe marches with kit, improvised shelters, and other essential survival skills. EX ROYAL FROST II February saw the Battalion train, with S Coy and T Coy concurrently conducting a winter FTX as well as a Winter Warfare Basic course on Ex ROYAL FROST. Candidates on the T Coy led BWW course, completed their field training requirements, including building winter defenses and improvised shelters. While not a mandatory requirement, some candidates put their confidence to the test by successfully spending a night in their own improvised shelters. Separately, S Coy conducted a winter recce exercise, challenging soldiers to navigate unseen in much more barren landscape. The exercise ended with section level snow shoe racing and tent set up competitions. EX ROYAL ADVANCE After months of lockdown, 4 RCR was given permission to resume training and quickly organized a range weekend. Over a 2 day period, soldiers from S Coy conducted essential weapons handling drills and completed their annual PWT3 ranges. They also participated in professional development training focusing on the Afghanistan War and regimental history, capped off with section attack rehearsals and company level PT. Tango Company seized this opportunity to get hands on experience with support weapons systems during Soldiers from 4 RCR conduct C7 PWT 3 training at Cedar Springs Range and Training Area. This was the first unit exercise conducted during 2020 due to the COVID-19 Pandemic. 4 RCR focused on qualifying soldiers on C7 PWT3 in order to conduct follow on, advanced training. Mastering the fundamentals is critical to ensuring overall mission success. [ 77 PRO PATRIA 2020 ]
their DP1 Infantryman supplemental course. Also allowing pre-IJLC soldiers to improve their navigation skills and conduct TEWT’s to better prepare them for success. EX ROYAL OFFENSIVE In October, 4 RCR travelled to CFB Meaford to participate in Ex ROYAL OFFENSIVE. Sierra Company conducted a significant company level advance to contact, advancing and clearing a 15km trace over 2 days. Soldiers fought through the typical Meaford weather of snow and rain while maintaining their momentum throughout. In the evening, soldiers participated in 4-man recce patrols with a focus on section level battle procedure. Sections navigated through thick vegetation. All teams achieved their desired objectives. This proved a good learning experience for many new DP1 qualified soldiers, who were led by an excellent cadre of NCOs and officers. Tango Company put their DP1 Infantryman supplemental training to the test and conducted service pistol familiarization shooting packages as well as qualifying the junior soldiers on the Browning pistol. The end of Ex ROYAL OFFENSIVE was the completion of over a month of strong work-up training in garrison. The exercise allowed soldiers and officers to brush up on their infantry skills and tactics in lieu of the typical summer training that gave way to operations. EX ROYAL ASSAULTER The intent of the exercise was to develop the soldier’s urban operations skills, but also to exercise leadership at all levels. With the majority of the world’s population now residing in urban areas, and many of the recent conflicts occurring in these areas, the need to develop the baseline urban ops skills of the company was prioritized for this exercise. The conduct of the exercise began at the urban operations complex at Cedar Springs Rifle Range. Soldiers began with less complex room entry operations, with section commanders and platoon 2ICs mentoring them throughout. Meanwhile, the officers of the platoon were working through a combat estimate package under the direction of the OC. This combat estimate package, forced junior officers within the Soldiers from 4 RCR conducting stairwell clearing drills during Exercise battalion to make considerations Royal Assaulter. Exercise Royal Assaulter was a dry training exercise in which and deductions outside of an soldiers were taught the fundamentals of Urban Operations and fighting in infantry context and consider built up areas. 4 RCR conducted a “Crawl, Walk, Run” method, starting with the factors of other combat arms lectures and glass house drills, followed by 50% speed drills. elements. Continuing under [ 78 PRO PATRIA 2020 ]
the supervision of the NCOs Soldiers from 4 RCR conducting room entry and stacking drills during Exercise Royal and some experts within the Assaulter. Bn who are hostage rescue and raid entry qualified police officers, the soldiers progressed to more complex building clearing, showing considerable skill progression throughout the day. The first day concluded with a company attack on the urban ops complex. The attack was effective at demonstrating the soldier’s progression of skills but still highlighted a few areas of improvement, which we would continue to work on the following day. The final day of the exercise consisted of soldiers working on lessons learned, and then transitioning to CIMIC based instruction on posturing and operating in urban environments still occupied by a local population. Soldiers were challenged in small groups with unique scenarios in which they would present their observations, considerations and deductions to the OC and the rest of the company. OP LASER In April 2020, the Canadian Government had deemed it necessary to deploy members of the CAF to assist in a response to the pandemic effort. Members of 4 RCR, throughout the chain of command, jumped at the opportunity to assist by any means possible, with many members being attached to the Arctic Response Company Group (ARCG) to assist the Northern indigenous communities and they were put on high readiness to respond to any RFA’s that came from Northern Ontario and the Arctic. The ARCG remained on 24-48hrs NTM in CTC BLACKDOWN conducting TMST, including proper use of PPE, COVID-19 awareness training, indigenous cultural awareness, chainsaw training and ATV training. The ARCG being predominantly composed of G&SF, and 4 RCR soldiers, were able to use their significant experience in Canada’s north to instruct new members on the intricacies of Arctic operations. The goal if we were not to deploy, was to develop these skills brigade [ 79 PRO PATRIA 2020 ]
wide, so more members could participate on future NOREX tasking’s and support domestic response tasks in Canada’s North. Other members found themselves assisting in Long term nursing homes in the Toronto region. These members’ duties included assisting delivery of food to residents, cleaning resident rooms and common areas, repairing broken tools and equipment within the home, as well as making repairs to the home itself (fixing loose handrails, repairing faulty lighting etc.) Packaging and returning belongings of deceased residents to their families, was one of the most difficult experiences some of our soldiers had to endure. Residents and staff were incredibly appreciative of the soldier’s efforts. From the many 4 RCR members that deployed on operation LASER this year, two soldiers received special commendation from the CDS, General Vance. Cpl Doughety and Cpl Slack both received the CDS Commendation coin for their efforts during operation LASER. Finally, members of 4 RCR were also tasked with the COVID-19 prevention in South Western, Ontario. Many members saw themselves on 24-48hrs NTM in order to assist Ontarians with any requests for assistance that the province required, whether it be relief in place for members during ARCG or the nursing homes. Soldiers, prepared diligently for any request for assistance that could be foreseen. Many other members were deemed essential services and continued with civilian duties. FOOTPRINT IN THE COMMUNITY Unfortunately, due to the nature of COVID-19, the battalion was unable to provide its usual commitments within the community. We are hoping for a return to ‘normal’ sometime in the future. KEY CEREMONIES WOLSELEY BARRACKS REMEMBRANCE DAY PARADE In usual fashion, 4 RCR completed a number of commitments in support of Remembrance Day for 2020. However, with the current climate many of its members were honoring the fallen virtually. 4 RCR provided Vigil parties to Remembrance Day ceremonies in Stratford and Wolseley Barracks as well as attending the Historic Woodlawn cemetery in London where a number of regimental members as buried. SOLDIER’S ANNUAL CHRISTMAS DINNER (EX ROYAL HOOT) This year, 4 RCR members maintained force health protection measures, by remaining at home and having a toast by themselves in honor to the regiment as well Soldiers were given online training to complete. 137TH REGIMENTAL BIRTHDAY DINNER Unfortunately, due to force health protection measures this year; the 137th Regimental Birthday Dinner did not occur. [ 80 PRO PATRIA 2020 ]
APPOINTMENTS, RETIREMENTS AND DEPARTURES Newly appointed CWO Ray Morris replaced CWO Jeff Burke as RSM during a very subdued Change of Appointment ceremony held at Wolseley Barracks. Now Captain Burke is acting OC of T Coy and looking forward to AOC. 4 RCR lost some key members long time members, including MWO Bruce Proper and Sgt Pat Cade, both with over 40 years’ service. Major Matt Prince left the unit as a result of a significant change in his civilian employment with a transfer to the London City emergency response unit. Sadly the Regiment said a final goodbye to MWO Bruce Proper (Ret’d), who reportedly died doing what he truly loved in a scuba accident somewhere in the tropics. AWARDS In 2020 the following annual awards were presented: The following members were recipients of additional awards: Premier of Ontario + 4 Div Comd Team Letter of appreciation – Long Term Care Home assistance: Cpl Avellon Pte Simic. Pte Lockie Pte Baker TBG 1 Commanders Coin + Premier of Ontario + 4 Div Comd Tm Letter of Appreciation - LTCH Assistance MCpl Burtch Pte Macedo Cpl Slack Pte Campbell Cpl Khan Pte Wilcox Cpl Dougherty Pte Ahmed MCpl Stokan TBG 1 Commanders Coins Cpl Elliott Cpl French Cpl Baillie Cpl Doucet Cpl Schavo Pte McKay Canadian Forces Decoration Cpl Gilmore-Sinclair 31CBG BSL Coin/ Commendation Lt Third [ 81 PRO PATRIA 2020 ]
KEY UNIT APPOINTMENTS AS OF DEC 2020 Hon LCol – LCol Bruce Burnham OC T Coy – Maj Kane Erickson (deployed) CO – LCol Pete Reintjes A OC T Coy – Capt Jeffrey Burke DCO – Maj Brett Griffiths CSM T Coy – MWO Marcus Brants T Coy Ops – MCpl Shane Wilson Adjt – Capt Josh MacAulay OC X Coy – Maj Brett Griffiths Ops O – Capt Josh MacAulay CSM X Coy – MWO Markus Brants Ops WO – WO Jason Mattice RQMS – Sgt Petras Stone RSM – CWO Ray Morris Chief Human Resource Administrator – OC S Coy – Maj Peter Keane Sgt Shannon Huntley CSM S Coy – WO Christopher Murdy KEY UNIT PROMOTIONS (NEW RANK INDICATED) Capt Burke Cpl Wagler CWO Morris Cpl Balano Sgt Philippon Cpl Doucette Cpl Haisman Cpl Schuilingradic Cpl Barlow Cpl Xiao Cpl Khan Cpl Rae Cpl Fisher Cpl Timmermans Cpl Freitas Cpl Mona Jaramillo Cpl Strots Cpl Baillie Cpl Stipcevic Cpl Ankenmann [ 82 PRO PATRIA 2020 ]
ERE The Royal Canadian Regiment 4TH CANADIAN DIVISION TRAINING CENTER, MEAFORD CO 4 CDTC – RSM 4 CDTC - LCol D.G. Fearon, MSM, CD CWO D.R. Limon, MMM, CD Drafted by: Capt Graeme Brooks with support from: Capt ERE Gerry Cacella, Lt Jason Gresel, Capt Niraj Kansara, Capt Evan Murray, and Capt Paul Stokes. The past year for members of The Royal Canadian Regiment (RCR) at the 4th Canadian Division Training Center (4 CDTC) in Meaford with A Coy personnel in Petawawa has been remarkably different from previous years. Brought on by the outbreak of COVID-19 and its evolution into a global pandemic, 4 CDTC faced many new and unprecedented challenges in order to maintain its goal of training, mentoring, and developing new soldiers and leaders to the highest of standards. Despite the significant impact to their daily lives and the conduct of training, Royal Canadians at 4 CDTC rose to meet those challenges and continue to deliver high quality training while maintaining the safety and well-being of their candidates and peers from COVID-19. APS saw the departure of MWO Sean Benedict (RCR) as DSM, replaced by MWO Anthony Jones (RCR). During the fall, 4 CDTC Commanding Officer Lieutenant-Colonel David Fearon (RCR) oversaw a change of appointment, welcoming new Regimental Sergeant Major, Chief Warrant Officer Dave [ 83 PRO PATRIA 2020 ]
Limon, taking over from Chief Warrant Officer Anthony Mayfield. A COY The 2020 training year proved to be another high tempo affair that challenged the resilience and adaptability of every member of A Coy as it faced the unprecedented influence of the COVID 19 Pandemic. A Coy personnel were forced to isolate in their homes for three months as leaders at every level wrote the Candidates of ISCC 0030 conducting Urban Operations Training at the CFB playbook that would help us navigate Petawawa Urban Ops Village. the uncharted territory of conducting individual training within a pandemic environment. However, once the marching orders were established, A Coy quickly began planning and executing training for the 2020 Reserve Summer Training (RST) period. Being geographically dislocated from HQ, B, and C Coys in Meaford, the company faced unique operational challenges of implementing Force Health Protection Measures (FHPMs) and training protocols that were particular to their base which demanded significant Candidates of ISCC 0029 receiving a recce patrol lesson at Clement Point collaboration with 4 CDSB Petawawa. Bivouac Site, CFB Petawawa. This included the safe intake of over 200 soldiers from across the province by effectively applying all the newly developed FHPMs that would become a fixture of daily life. For the remainder of the summer, all members of the team demonstrated exceptional dedication as they endured quarantines, the wearing of non-medical masks in hot and humid conditions, and diligently monitored each other for signs and symptoms of the new virus. All this was accomplished despite half the company being posted, including a change of command between the outgoing OC, Maj G.T. McDonald and the incoming OC, Maj C.F.R.J. Desilets. Working through these frictions, A Coy’s efforts resulted in the successful completion of two Army Junior Leadership Courses (AJLC) and two Infantry Section Commander Courses (ISCC) during RST. This also marked the first time that the ISCC was conducted at A Coy, led by Lt T.R.D. Trepanier (3 RCR), WO R.A. Baskerville, and Sergeant S.L. Collins. To date, A Coy has graduated three ISCC and four AJLC courses without a single positive case of COVID-19. Furthermore, the company has been consulted by various organizations on CFB Petawawa regarding best practices for operating in a pandemic environment, a testament to the company’s leading role in this regard. [ 84 PRO PATRIA 2020 ]
B COY As in previous years, 4 CDTC and B Coy returned from the winter leave block ready to begin training. One serial of DP1 Infantryman (DP1 INFMN) returned from the winter leave black ready to finish training, DP 1 INFMN 0058, commanded by Lt Stephenson (4 CDTC) and Sgt Geburt (4 CDTC/RCR), graduated 26 infantry soldiers to send to the infantry units across Canada. Three more serials kicked off shortly after with DP1 INFMN 0074 commanded by Lt McLean (3 RCR) and Sgt Patterson (4 CDTC/RCR), DP1 INFMN 0075 commanded by Capt Ling (1 RCR) and Sgt Heinrich (4 CDTC/RCR), and DP1 INFMN 0092 commanded by Lt Ortega (1 RCR) and Sgt Lajeunesse (4 CDTC/RCR). Despite getting off to a good start, on 13 March 2020, all three courses were put on an administrative pause due to the impacts of COVID-19. The lockdown period during the first wave lasted until 22 June 2020 when DP 1 INFMN 0074 returned to complete their training under new FHPMs to safely complete training in a COVID environment. Over the course of the summer, more courses returned to Meaford and all three courses graduated a total of 77 new infanteers for the Canadian Army. With the current success of the new FHPMs introduced, another serial of DP1 INFMN commanded by Lt Stewart (3 RCR) and WO Lajeunesse (4 CDTC/RCR) began and two serials of Rifles Section Commanders Course (RSCC) were completed, the first serial commanded by Lt McLean (3 RCR) and Lt O’Keefe (3 RCR) and the second serial commanded by Lt Chan (3 RCR) and Lt Fenn (3 RCR). WO Kreiger (4 CDTC/RCR) served as the Course WO for both serials and 57 candidates graduated from the RSCC courses at 4 CDTC Meaford. WO Henrich and WO Lajeunesse received their promotions prior to the winter break after graduating DP3B with Sgt Gebert. C COY Following the winter break, C Coy began to prepare for the annual RST season, the busiest period of the training year, and how to effectively conduct this training in a COVID environment. Leadership at all levels were challenged to think outside the box and develop new methods to deliver training and course material in order to maintain a high standard of training while protecting candidates and staff. Despite short timelines to prepare for the resumption of individual training and ensuring all equipment and resources were ready, C Coy successfully ran six serials of DP1 INFMN Mods 1 and 2 while effectively employing FHPMs to maintain the safety of all personnel at 4 CDTC. C Coy was also successful in the execution of the first pilot Basic Military Qualification course decentralised from CFLRS (D-BMQ) in the 4th Cdn Div. Commanded by Capt Brooks (4 CDTC/RCR) and WO Boisvert- Candidates of D-BMQ 0240 prepare to conduct CBRN training at 4 CDTC Meaford [ 85 PRO PATRIA 2020 ]
Boucher (4 CDTC), 4 CDTC conducted a trade homogenized D-BMQ and graduated 31 Combat Engineer candidates from basic military training. The planning and execution of the D-BMQ pilot required a whole of base approach with flexibility to adapt to the unique institutional requirements and training plan which was geocentric to CFLRS. Challenges of being the first pilot course in the Canadian Army included course staff completing a General Military Training Instructor (GMTI) course concurrent to the final preparations for candidate reception. OPS/TRG/STANDARDS Solving training challenges has never been new to 4 CDTC Standards and they were ready to face the laundry list of training challenges to overcome in light of COVID-19. The value that 4 CDTC Standards brought to IT&E throughout 4 Div in 2020 included practical solutions to CQC-B training, feasible PLQ Mod 2 adjustments and advising on alternative instructional practices in a COVID-19 environment. The secret to our success at Standards is due, in no small part, to the savvy, experienced, and keen Soldiers at 4 CDTC conduct Remembrance Day ceremonies in accordance members of The RCR throughout with Force Health Protection Measures six detachments. This year saw the retirement of one of these Royal Canadians - the former Division Chief Stands Officer (DCSO), Capt Mehdi Imtiaz. Capt Imtiaz, a well-known personality throughout 4 Div, retired with 42 years of service in the CAF. Taking over the DCSO helm is the newly commissioned Capt Russell Arsenault who traded in his CWO rank and the CACSOR role for a commission in July 2020. Coming into the CACSOR role at 4 CDTC Standards is fellow Royal, MWO Ross Lewis. Throughout each Standards detachment, Royal Canadians such as WOs Vardy, Murphy, Crellin, Knapp, and Garton continue to provide tactful course oversight to a plethora of courses including DP1 Infantryman, the new D-BMQ, and Primary Leadership Qualification serials throughout 31, 32, and 33 CBG. This year WOs Wilkinson, Saunders, and Lebel were added to the standards group of high performers. Their professionalism, diplomacy, and tact reflects admirably on the Regiment and to future Royal Canadians Canadians. The Ops and Trg Cell / Range Control at 4 CDTC is home to six RCR members. Due to their tireless efforts this year, the National IT Program, and unit/base operations have achieved their objectives and the RTA has hosted units across multiple L1s despite the pandemic. Maj Scott Wheeler (RCR) began the year as OC of B Coy then assumed the position of Chief Instructor (CI) immediately prior to the resumption of IT in May and quickly discovered the flexibility required to plan in a COVID environment. Being the first unit to begin IT following the COVID-19 pause, 4 CDTC pioneered many of the SOPs for the Canadian Army to continue force generation. After reprogramming the Reserve Summer Training (RST) plan for the [ 86 PRO PATRIA 2020 ]
Division Maj Wheeler enabled 4 CDTC to execute a RegF Decentralized BMQ course in the fall. Capt Evan Murray (RCR) moved into the position of Ops O early in the year from Capt Ed Vermeersch (RCR), who has since been posted to JTFN – Yellowknife. As the Ops O he has assisted the CI with executing the Division’s and CTC’s Individual Training plan, maintained base operations and worked with Range Control to ensure RTA maintenance. With the onset of COVID-19, the Ops & Trg Cell has worked long hours to ensure IT and force generation continued in a safe manner despite the threat. For over half of the year, WO Carlos Arevalo worked as the Internal Ops WO where he assisted the Ops O with implementing 4 CDTC’s Individual Training plan as well as, maintained a smooth working relationship between Range Control and CBO. In Mid-2020, WO Arevalo (RCR) transitioned to the Ops & Trg Sergeant Major position where he assisted the CI and Ops O in all training related matters, both in Meaford and Petawawa. WO Arevalo received his second CD during the fall. Sgt Scott Stevens (RCR) moved to Range Control in December 2019 from B Coy where he was the Ops Sgt. He has now been a Snr Patroller for a year and has ensured that all training within the Meaford RTA is completed safely. Sgt Ryan McCulloch (RCR) in Base Weapons issued and received all weapons required for unit training and throughout RST. He has completed the initial Range Control training and is now ready to assume his role as a Snr Patroller in the New Year. Sgt Mark Held (RCR) moved to Range Control on 23 June 2020 from B Coy where he was an instructor on DP1 Infantry courses as a Section Commander. He completed his initial training as Snr Patroller and has assumed that position. GARRISON COY Capt Paul Stokes (RCR) continued to lead as Officer Commanding Garrison Coy through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite being a small company, Garrison Coy had the immense task of continuing to provide support to operations at 4 CDTC while implementing the new COVID-19 FHPMs. Capt Stokes’ diverse team, which includes a Weapons Section, Sigs Section, Procurement Section, and the Alternate Service Delivery, and manning from several trades, were instrumental to the resumption of training at 4 CDTC. WO Rose (RCR) remained in command of the Weapons Section at 4 CDTC, carrying on from the previous year. The Weapons Section continues to manage and coordinate the distribution of weapons to support training between A Coy in Petawawa and the companies in Meaford and manages the intake of new weapons into the training center. Moving forward into the New Year, Garrison Coy remains ready to support and maintain all essential base services during the COVID-19 pandemic. Over the past year, the 4th Canadian Division Training Center faced unexpected and unprecedented challenges in the wake of two waves of COVID-19. With staunch dedication and adherence to FHPMs, members and Royal Canadians at 4 CDTC continue to rise to the occasion conducting safe, high quality training, ensuring zero cases of COVID-19 transmission. Moving forward into 2021, 4 CDTC will continue to conduct its mission until the pandemic is over, delivering comprehensive training and providing a first class training establishment in order to meet the operational requirements of the 4th Canadian Division. PRO PATRIA. [ 87 PRO PATRIA 2020 ]
ROYAL CANADIANS AT 4TH CANADIAN DIVISION/ JOINT TASK FORCE CENTRAL HEADQUARTERS 4th Canadian Division Headquarters (4 Cdn Div HQ) / Joint Task Force Central Headquarters (JTFC HQ) remains vibrant hub of activity for the 12 Royal Canadians working within the HQ. As the higher-higher HQ to all four battalions of The Royal Canadian Regiment, 4 Cdn Div HQ maintains a full sight picture on all Regimental training and operational activities. The Command Cell of 4 Cdn Div includes BGen Mialkowski (Commander), CWO Keith Olstad (Division Sergeant-Major), Maj Sasha Paul (Executive Assistant), and Capt Justin Lefebvre (Personal Assistant). Maj Paul deployed in early 2021 on JTF-IMPACT. The G1 branch is represented by Maj Charles Whitehead (G1 MGMT). The G3/J3 branch is the most heavily represented with five Royal Canadians, including LCol Sean French (G3/J3), MWO Barry Eddy (G3/J3 SM), Maj Michal Mendyka (Deputy G3/J3), Capt Robert Thornhill (G33 International) and WO Samuel Robins (RJOC WO). The G5 Branch is supported by two Royal Canadians, LCol Garett Hallman (G5), who deployed in February of 2021 on JTF-IMPACT, and Maj Danny Vincent (Deputy G5). As with the remainder of the country 2020 proved to be a challenging year. Beginning with Op GLOBE, the CAF named operation in support of the repatriation of Canadians stranded abroad, JTFC was the first Regional Joint Task Force to be involved in domestic operations as a result of the impacts of COVID-19. Followed closely by Op LASER, the CAF named operation for pandemic response. The year ended with the stand-up of Op VECTOR, CAF support to vaccine distribution. For the duration of 2020 the JTFC team has been involved in near constant domestic operations. While supporting the domestic operations 4 Cdn Div was involved in the Force Generation of the Canadian Army’s contribution to international operations during 2020. OP REASSURANCE, OP IMPACT, and OP UNIFIER saw over 1000 soldiers from within the division deployed on expeditionary operations and that will continue to the fall of 2021. In addition to the above mentioned domestic and international operational commitments, preparedness for future domestic emergencies remains paramount within the HQ. EX TRILLIUM DRAGON was conducted in a distributed manner as a domestic planning CPX within a latent COVID-19 environment leveraging new tools such as MS Teams to execute command and control in real time. A testament to the professionalism of the HQ personnel’s rapid adaptation to the new virtual way of doing business, has not only resulted in a greatly reduced footprint within the HQ but also incorporated new tools and innovative ideas to the conduct of daily work. Incorporating lessons learned will no doubt pay dividends in spring 2021 should an Op LENTUS response is required. Unfortunately, all social gatherings were cancelled this year due to COVID-19 and so it has been especially challenging keeping in touch with the regimental family and colleagues. A virtual mess dinner was held with the selected attendees having their meals and wine delivered to their homes with socializing and speeches delivered on line. Looking to 2021, one of the biggest challenges will be our support to the delivery of vaccines to Northern and Isolated communities throughout Ontario without increasing the risk of spreading the disease. The Canadian Rangers will play a vital role within their communities acting as sentinels as well as critical support to vaccine distribution efforts. Efforts continue [ 88 PRO PATRIA 2020 ]
at all levels to ensure a smooth rollout of the vaccine in order to assist our most vulnerable followed by the remainder of the province with most hopefully receiving their inoculations by the fall of 2021. It has been a long year due to the pandemic but with Op VECTOR having begun there is finally some light at the end of the tunnel. No doubt 2021 will continue to have its hardships but we shall continue to face them head on. Despite the challenges of COVID-19 the Royal Canadians serving in 4 Cdn Div/JTFC HQ continue to adapt, improvise and hopefully, overcome this pandemic. PRO PATRIA ATLANTIC CANADA ROYAL CANADIANS NOVA SCOTIA The year 2020 has passed, and to say the least it was filled with uncertainty. The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic took hold of the world and threw it into turmoil. The exception to the uncertainty in Atlantic Canada was the members of The Royal Canadian Regiment posted throughout the region doing their part and ensuring Atlantic Canada received the best support the Canadian Armed Forces could offer. Royal Canadians at JTFA HQ (from L to R): Captain Dan MacKinnon, Major Chris Beatty, Captain Ed Lidstone, Major Dave Johnston, Major Gary Boudreau. Missing from photo: Major Dave DesBarres and Major George Williams. [ 89 PRO PATRIA 2020 ]
Throughout 2020 at Joint Task Force Atlantic Headquarters, Majors Gary Boudreau, Garrett Hallman, Dave DesBarres, Dave Johnston, and George Williams, along with Captains Ed Lidstone and Dan MacKinnon were hard at work. Major Boudreau continued his role as the Headquarters Commanding Officer, providing leadership and guidance for headquarters staff throughout the pandemic. Major Garrett Hallman, continued to lead the J3 Branch until his promotion and posting to 4th Canadian Division Headquarters. Other Major Dave Johnston receives a Commander JTFA Bravo Zulu Award for his work RCR members employed in the with the RCMP on a downed float plane in Mistastin Lake, Labrador in 2019. J3 Branch were Major George Williams (retired regular force and working Class B), JTFA Provincial Liaison Officer with Prince Edward Island Emergency Measures Organization, Major Dave Johnston as the J35 and Captain Ed Lidstone as the J35-2. In August 2020, Major Chris Beatty was posted to JTFA HQ, replacing Lieutenant- Colonel Hallman as the J3; he hit the ground running, carrying on with Operation LASER as well as participating in Exercise FRONTIER SENTINEL in early September and dealing with Operation VECTOR, in December. Major Dave DesBarres remained as the J7, with Captain Dan MacKinnon as the J7-2. Both were prepared to assist with Operation LASER and Operation VECTOR as required and assist their RCR brethren in the J3 Branch. Although 2020 was an unorthodox year conducting operations and training, The RCR members posted to JTFA HQ remained poised to serve Canada, Atlantic Canadians and the regiment. MWO Wallace (Todd) Smith, Detachment Across 5th Canadian Division, members of The Sergeant-Major, 5 CDSB Gagetown Detachment RCR provided tremendous support and assisted the Canadian Armed Forces in formulating and Aldershot. executing a new way of conducting business in a safe and responsible manner within a pandemic-latent environment. At Division HQ, the G3 Lieutenant- Colonel Michael Blanchette was instrumental in day to day operations and the stand-up of Operation LASER. The operation provided unique challenges of its own, but his leadership and guidance ensured a large force consisting primarily of reserve members was generated expeditiously in order to respond to any requests for assistance from the provincial or federal governments. [ 90 PRO PATRIA 2020 ]
Capt Mitchell Price, MCpl Steven Hatfield and WO Ryan Caines, Reserve Support Staff with The Cape Breton Highlanders, pose for a photograph at the Victoria Park Armouries, Sydney, NS. At 5 CDSB Detachment Aldershot, two Royal Canadians conducted a handover of the Detachment Commander position. The incoming Detachment Commander, Major David Garvin, was posted in from Gagetown, where he was a part of the instructional staff at the Tactics School, while the outgoing Commander, Major Brian Brooks has since retired from the Regular Force and is now serving as an RCR-badged officer in the 5th Canadian Division Headquarters. Both members were faced with a great deal of challenges WO Richard Hamilton (ret’d RCR and now with the Princess Louise Fusiliers), as the COVID-19 pandemic forced mentors a Platoon 2IC at Camp Edwards, Massachusetts, during Exercise the closure of all training schools in SOUTHBOUND QUEST 2020. the spring of 2020. In order to not fall behind on the individual training of soldiers, Major Brooks and his RCR Sergeant Major, Master Warrant Officer Wallace (Todd) Smith provided immense support which allowed for the resumption of the Individual Training Summer Program 2020 at Aldershot. Within 36 Canadian Brigade Group, Lieutenant-Colonel Eleanor Taylor, as the Deputy Commander, as well as other RCR members posted to reserve units as Adjutants, Operations NCOs and Transport Representatives, played a vital role in the force generation of soldiers for Operation LASER. They were able to quickly organize locally run courses over the summer [ 91 PRO PATRIA 2020 ]
to reduce the requirement for soldiers to travel. Combined, these measures contributed to the overall health of the Brigade by achieving a continuity of operations while still poised to respond to the government’s needs. Notable personnel changes include Warrant Office John Delorey, the previous Ops WO for the Princess Louise Fusiliers being posted to The Grey and Simcoe Foresters in Ontario. He has been succeeded by Warrant Officer Stephen Mills who was posted in after serving at the Infantry School. The PLF also received Master Corporal Thomas Fitzpatrick as their new Transport NCO, being posted in from 2 RCR. In terms of career courses, Captain Michael Hobb, posted to the West Nova Scotia Regiment, completed the Army Operations Course in Kingston during 2020, while Master Corporal Fitzpatrick completed the Rifle Section Commanders Course. All these members brought great credit to The RCR and the CAF, as their stewardship of professionalism ensured the safety, well-being, and development of soldiers across the Brigade. NEWFOUNDLAND AND LABRADOR Support to the Army Reserve continued in Newfoundland and Labrador across the First and Second Battalions of the Royal Newfoundland Regiment as well as 5th Canadian Ranger Patrol Group. There is no doubt the leadership and abilities of these Royal Canadians to adapt to change was tested throughout the tumultuous calendar year that was 2020. One of the most notable challenges met this year was the NL IRU reaction to “Snowmageddon” and the rapid response to record snowfall in the city of St. John’s in mid-January; coordinated in large part by Captain Harry Little at 1 RNFLDR. Later in the year and in the midst of the pandemic, 1 and 2 RNFLDR saw substantial movement of personnel during APS and the successful handover of the majority of their collective Regular Force Cadre (RFC). At 1 RNFLDR, Captain Harry Little and Sergeant Kyle Kerekes handed over to Captain Ian Scully and Master Corporal Jeffrey Temple, respectively, with Warrant Officer William (Bill) Cornish being posted in to the Unit as well. 2 RNFLDR saw the continued efforts of Captain Forrest Thompson and Warrant Officer William Reid, with Master Corporal Michael Pomeroy handing over to Master Corporal Dean Tait. Captain Douglas Roop remained with 5 CRPG and all these fine Royal Canadians contributed to the successes of the above-mentioned ARes Units and continued to represent the Regiment to an extremely high standard. WO Bill Cornish (standing center behind flag with white mask) and Capt Ian Scully (kneeling far right) provide support and mentorship to members of 1st Battalion, The Royal Newfoundland Regiment on Ex TUNGSTEN WARRIOR 20 at 5 CDSB in Gagetown. [ 92 PRO PATRIA 2019 ]
NEW BRUNSWICK AND PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND 5 Canadian Division Support Base had numerous Royal Canadians working in various positions throughout the unit. Master Warrant Officer Allan Corrie remained the Drill Sergeant Major and Garrison Sergeant Major. Working at Range Control were Sergeant Dan Hartnett and Sergeant Wallace McKinnon as Safety Wardens, while Master Corporal John Theriault, Corporal Barry Allan, Corporal Will Burgess, Corporal Joe Chartrand, Corporal Scott Reid, Corporal Jon Curwin, Corporal Ryan Doherty, Corporal Miguel Laforge, Corporal Geoff Lalovich, Corporal Glenn Milbury, and Corporal Mathieu Pichette-Cacheiro were patrolmen. Given the size of the Gagetown range and training area, all of these gentlemen had challenging tasks to accomplish. As the Administration Officer for the Military Personnel Command Canadian Armed Forces Transition Unit for NB/PEI, Captain Rod Hallahan had the important task of ensuring that all personnel recuperating from medical injuries and/or seamlessly shifted into civilian life. Given the amount of personnel who are working within this unit, Captain Hallahan’s responsibilities were daunting at the very least. Joining Captain Hallahan was Warrant Officer Myles Turple who was posted to the Transition Centre. Other Royal Canadians on Base Gagetown included Master Warrant Officer Harvey Flowers who is improving his second language skills as a student at the language school. Over at CTC’s Canadian Army Trials and Evaluation Unit Master Warrant Officer Barrie Aldridge remained as the Infantry Corps trials NCO with Corporal Rob Rafuse supporting as a storesperson. Captain Johnathan Woodgate remained he Regular Force Cadre Officer and Adjutant with the Royal New Brunswick Regiment and, not surprisingly, remained quite busy. Supporting the RNBR with further Regular Force support or the STaR task of being a Mortar unit are a number of enlisted ranks with Warrant Officer Rick Hamilton as the Ops WO, Warrant Officer Rod Leblanc as the Mortar Platoon 2IC, Sergeant John Macdonald, Master Corporal Alex Slade, and Corporal Nick Thibodeau as Mortar MTCs, and Sergeant Tony Nash as the Training NCO. Clearly with such overwhelming support from The RCR the RNBR remained in good hands. Despite being a fairly small unit, the Tactics School had its fair share of Royal Canadians. Currently serving, retired and recently retired personnel held critical positions within the organization. Major Bob Pearson remained as the Officer Commanding the Army Simulation Centre. Major David Murray remained within Tactics Company as OIC of the Infantry Dismounted Company Commanders Course (IDCC) and as Army Tactics and Operations Course (ATOC) directing staff and was well respected by all. Due to the dissolving of the C-IED Cell Major Jayson Geroux was moved into Tactics Company where he remained the OIC of the Tactical Exploiter course and as directing staff for the ATOC, IDCCC and the Combat Team Commanders Course (CTCC), while also remaining as the school’s Urban Operations SME. Major (ret’d) John Bourgeois continued to serve with the RNBR but was also a civilian contractor with the school, developing and writing courseware in order to ease the burden on the directing staff. Captain Jason Parsons was the unit’s Operations Officer and was critical to the success of the CTCC. Also of tremendous strength due to his technical course qualification was [ 93 PRO PATRIA 2020 ]
The Tactics School’s Royal Canadians taken during Christmas Festivities week (From L to R): MCpl Pierre Dumaresq, Sgt Adam Walsh, Capt James Longaphie, Major Bob Pearson, CWO Vladimir Zalik, Major Jayson Geroux, Major David Murray, Capt Jason Parsons, Cpl Ben Lynch, Cpl Shawn Dionne. Captain James Longaphie who worked within the Army Simulation Centre in general and the Command Support Battle Lab in particular. The Regimental Sergeant Major was Chief Warrant Officer Vladimir Zalik, whose utmost professionalism and positive attitude remained his hallmark. Sergeant Adam Walsh was also extremely steadfast as an Admin NCO with the ATOC and due to the recent retirement of Sergeant Troy Woods was moved into the school’s Operations and Training Cell as the Training Sergeant. Master Corporal Pierre Dumaresq was “on loan” from the Infantry School for quite some time as a simulator operator within the Army Simulation Centre; however, given the amount of time, he really is considered a part of the Tactics School family. Corporal Shawn Dionne remained within the school’s CQMS while also bringing a high level of athletic abilities to the school’s PT periods. Corporal Ben Lynch in his quiet, unassuming and professional manner also added critical support to the CQMS. A number of retirements, both planned and surprised, occurred within the school. Major Marc Cote applied his critical thinking skills and made the Chief Standards Officer (CSO) position one of importance again with input and positive change being made to all of the school’s courses thanks to his efforts. He has since retired from the Regular Force and is now a Primary Reservist with the RNBR. Captain Joe Crowley who had retired from the Regular Force quite some time ago decided to let his Class B contract expire so that he could finally retire completely. Captain Crowley was the 2IC of the Army Learning and Support Centre, a robust organization of military, civilian and college students who, thanks to his support, [ 94 PRO PATRIA 2020 ]
remained on the cutting edge of technological change for the Canadian Army. Sergeant Troy Woods also retired from the school’s Operations and Training Cell, and was often sought out within the school for all of its wants and needs. With the Tactics School running Above: MWO Scott Daigle receives his Operation Service Medal-HUMANITAS for a number of career courses and deployment to Beirut, Lebanon on OP PROVISION, 2016. (From L to R): LCol S.A. Pires providing important support to the Canadian Army as a whole, it (CO 5 CDTC), Maj J.M. Gargano, MWO S.A. Daigle. CWO J.E.S. Boulay (RSM 5 CDTC). was good to have a large number of Royal Canadians filling critical Below: Pre-COVID 19, WO Dave McEachern gives orders during a PLQ. positions throughout the unit to ensure that the school remained successful in its tasks. Despite being a fairly small unit, the 5th Canadian Division Training Center had a number of Royal Canadians serving within the unit. Master Warrant Officer Scott Daigle was the Company Sergeant Major for Alpha Company, the training company based in Gagetown. Also within the company was Warrant Officer Dave McEachern, a course 2IC, and Sergeant Jeremy Turner who was both an instructor and course 2IC. These three members have particularly been instrumental in the mentoring of candidates, junior officers, and new instructors at the Training Center. Furthermore in the instructor cadre was Sergeant James McMahon, Master Corporal Chad Caskanette, Master Corporal Brad Johnston, Master Corporal Matthew Richards (who has also worked in the Company Quartermaster Stores), and Corporal Brodie Spencer (who previously was a member of Transport Platoon). Throughout the past year, these members have planned and executed an Infantry Section Commander’s Course, multiple Primary Leadership Qualifications, Army Junior Leadership Courses, Basic Military Qualifications – Land, and a Basic Military Officer Qualification – Army. Although no longer a part of 5 CDTC, Sergeant Bart Armstrong was also a valued member of the instructor cadre until his posting back to 2 RCR in late summer. Their efforts in training the next generation of leaders has been key and the product has been hundreds of graduates in the last year alone for the Canadian Armed Forces, and particularly 5th Canadian Division. In addition to these Royal Canadians who were at the forefront of training, there were also those who worked in the Unit Headquarters and Administration Company ensuring courses [ 95 PRO PATRIA 2020 ]
and the Unit received the required support. Warrant Officer Ray McFarlane was a key member of the Standards Cell, ensuring that courses run throughout the Division were supported with instructor standardization training and ongoing standards support throughout the courses. Corporal Tyler Williams was a member of the Unit Operations Cell, acting as a point of contact between the sub-units, and course coordinators. Rounding out the staff at the Training Center were Captain Valerie O’Hara as the Company Commander and Warrant Officer Dave King as the Transport Platoon Commander. Within Transport Platoon, there were also many hard workers and drivers which include Corporal Brett Carr, Corporal Tyler Goodine, and Corporal Kyle Wickens. As 5 CDTC remained busy year round with a variety of courses for both the Primary Reserve and Regular Force, Cpl Tyler Goodine and Cpl Kyle Wickens after completing the Combat it was great to have Royal Canadians Forces Test Pre-COVID 19. filling both instructor and support roles. This ensured high quality of training was provided to the junior soldiers and leaders of our military. As per the standard, The RCR continued to fill important positions and do important work outside of our four battalions. Given the current crop of Royal Canadians employed throughout the Atlantic Provinces, it was certainly a pleasure to observe the fantastic work they conducted supporting the Canadian Armed Forces overall. INFANTRY SCHOOL Submitted by Capt Jon Berrey 2020 was an interesting year for the CAF due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Infantry School (Inf Sch) started 2020 like any other year: QSTP boards were planned and some had run, courses were starting to run after the Christmas leave period, doctrine writing was ongoing with combat support cells, and then on Friday 13 March 2020, all personnel were told to disperse home and to wait further direction. That quickly turned into approximately 1-2 months of work-from-home to ensure force health protection. During this time, an exponential increase in the usage of VTC and file-sharing commenced as the members [ 96 PRO PATRIA 2020 ]
Photo credit Infantry School IS Cell, Cpl LeBlanc and Cpl Simard of the Inf Sch worked feverishly to prepare for the eventual restart of training. Once given the OK, the Inf Sch returned to work in force with the main effort to force generate through career courses, such as IODP 1.1 and 1.2, DP3B, BMOQ-A, and RSCC. The entire school achieved the immeasurable task of coordinating with the RCAF, CAL, RMC, the Reg F, and numerous other reserve units to bring in students from across the country that needed training and to (in some cases) overload courses to ensure the least possible impact on the Field Force (FF) from the 2 month pandemic shutdown. The most significant impact on the school was that outside instructor augmentation was not authorized and the perpetually understaffed Inf Sch worked holistically to support the FF – with even the Ops O, CSO, Adjt, and Cmdt conducting assessments on courses at times. Once the summer training period was complete and force health protection measures were better understood, FF augmentation was authorized for the Fall training period for courses like 3B and numerous advanced courses. The year 2020 also saw the introduction of the Infantry Platoon Command Programme (IPCP), consisting of two parts: Infanteer Internship (II) and Teaching, Education, and Mentoring (TEM). The year-long course concept quickly turned into execution and saw over 100 Inf O students commence the course with the first portion generally focusing on infantry basics and the second portion focuses on mixing BMOQ-A, AFFRSO, 1.1, BWW, LAV TOCC, and 1.2. The general concept for TEM is to deliver those courses in a more symbiotic fashion and to increase the front- end mentoring of junior officers in preparation for battalion – this is achieved by having all the permanent staff Capts and WOs pair up and meet twice a week with up to 6 students to answer any questions and to provide the mentorship on anything from kit to tactics to battalion life that students historically did not get due to time constraints on courses. 2020 was a year that proved difficult and uncertain, yet looking back on it demonstrated the grit, the resolve, and the flexibility that defines the RCR and the CAF writ large. [ 97 PRO PATRIA 2020 ]
Photo credit Infantry School IS Cell, Cpl LeBlanc and Cpl Simard ROYAL CANADIAN OFFICERS The Infantry School has a relatively small complement of RCR Officers in APS 20, with the majority of them posted-out in APS 21. Maj Jon Miller arrived from 5 Div HQ in Fall 2020 to command C Coy, the company that focuses on section-level leadership and technical courses. Arriving during the summer training restart after the 2020 pandemic shut down all training in March 2020, Maj Miller integrated seamlessly and continues to keep C Coy operating on all cylinders. Maj Scott Johnson took over command of B Coy to oversee the forward momentum of the specialty cells and provide support to their doctrine writing and advise the cell OICs on strategic direction. Capt Mark Spears arrived in the Fall of 2020 to take over as unit Adjutant from Capt Jon Berrey who was holding down the Adjt position while Maj Mike Urbankiewicz was posted out to 2 RCR and Capt Spears’s posting-in was pushed to the right due to the pandemic’s effect on TF Jerusalem. Capt Berrey’s replacement for OIC Aslt Pnrs arrived during APS 20 and caused him to move to backfill the Adjt position, then subsequently moving in to an instructor billet in A Coy – the company that focuses on platoon-level leadership courses. Capt Mike Sharkey has been OIC DFS this past APS and continues to deliver courses to create qualified personnel to augment combat support units and also works to develop and refine anti-armour doctrine. Capt Erik Harris works tirelessly as the 2IC of Admin Coy and provided robust and precise support to courses and to numerous individuals in quarantine during the summer training period of the 2020 pandemic. Capt John Ward is the 2IC of A Coy and although not being busy enough, was titled as the OIC for the new year-long infantry officer course: Infantry Platoon Command Programme (IPCP). Capt Jon Yakymchuk has been working to support numerous course within the school over the past year, including 1.2 and ARP, by applying mentorship and focusing on the ability to apply critical thinking to non-standard situations. ROYAL CANADIAN SENIOR NCOS CWO Mario Grondin is currently the Inf Sch RSM and has been running a tight ship, while also providing a strong rock to look up to during the constant changes in force health protection [ 98 PRO PATRIA 2020 ]
and training requirements due to the pandemic. MWO Paul Pay arrived in APS 20 and took over as the Senior Instructor (similar to the position of DSM or QMSI). Once on the ground, MWO Pay was part of the command team that oversaw the first portion of IPCP: II (Infantry Internship). MWO Ian Mackeen arrived in APS 20 to take over from MWO Eric LeClair as CSM B Coy. With MWO Mackeen’s background of previously being the 2IC of the mortar cell, he naturally fit right in to the B Coy command team. MWO Kevin Mercer arrived in APS 20 and took over as CSM Admin during a busy training period that restarted after the pandemic shut down training in March 2020. ROYAL CANADIANS DISPERSED IN THE COMPANIES A Coy – A Coy is the company that focuses on platoon-level leadership courses. In the past year, A Coy has been running over maximum capacity to catch up from the significant impact that the pandemic shut down had on delaying training. The company is intermixed with Royal Canadians who operate as instructors, administrative staff, and support staff. Without the drivers, stores people, instructors, CQ staff, and even Royal Canadian augmentees, courses like 3B, 1.1, 1.2, and IPCP would not be able to train and qualify personnel to career progress or allow the FF to force generate. B Coy – B Coy is the specialist company that focuses on combat support courses. Unfortunately, the pandemic shifted focus to DP1 courses to force generate, so many of the Royal Canadians were reallocated to support A Coy courses. However, in the fall of 2020 many of the advanced courses were either running again or back on the books to restart in winter 2021. The Royal Canadians in this company are extremely special-mission focused and work on not only refining their relatively new courses, but also on researching, developing, and refining doctrine in their ‘spare time’. Photo credit Infantry School IS Cell, Cpl LeBlanc and Cpl Simard [ 99 PRO PATRIA 2020 ]
C Coy – C Coy is the company that focuses on section-level leadership and technical courses. The Royal Canadians in this company have been tirelessly delivering BMOQ-A, ASAIC, and RSCC serials. Many of the personnel from this company shifted to A Coy to help support the pilot serial of IPCP, either as an instructor or support staff. The dedication to the development of junior leaders and the flexibility of the Royal Canadians in this company is evident in their buy-in to the mentoring approach that forms one of the key pillars to the success of IPCP. Admin Coy – Admin Coy is a mix of school HQ, standards, Ops, and a traditional combat service support company (to an extent). Every reader can appreciate the untold amount of support that a C/S 8 provides the frontline sub-units and that is no less different at the Inf Sch. Although an already busy task of supporting numerous and very different courses, the Royal Canadians in this company were given the extra task of spear-heading the quarantine support to courses and individuals during their mandated 14-day pre-course quarantine imposed by the province of New Brunswick and CADTC. On top of it all, the Inf Sch also manages the Officer Preparation Platoon, which can consist of itself over 100 Inf Os awaiting course loading and each have unique career development plans to gain them exposure to the infantry prior to course. The Royal Canadians of the Inf Sch C/S 8 are truly head and shoulders above the rest and have never once said ‘it cannot be done’. In the school HQ, there are Royal Canadians in positions of direct influence over the RCIC strategic vision (such as the RSM as the RCIC Dep CWO) and work daily with all three Regiments to ensure a common voice and direction towards force modernization and refinement. RCR OFFICERS BADGING From top left: 2Lt Will Hand, Lt Devin Cornah, Lt Spencer Barge, Lt Pascal Devillers, Lt Matt Hass, Lt Dan Chan, 2Lt Kyle Horne, 2Lt Riley Mclean From bottom left: Lt Edgar Aguilar-Cabrera, Lt Drew Macdonald-Wangen, Lt Todd Stewart, Lt Michaela Dagg, Lt Aaron Hawco, Lt Kyle Fenn, Lt Eric Guevremont, Capt Darrel Shepard (Course Officer) [ 100 PRO PATRIA 2020 ]
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