THE CANADIAN GUNNER L’ARTILLEUR CANADIEN...

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THE CANADIAN GUNNERL’ARTILLEUR CANADIEN

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1Canadian Gunner

Captain-General, The Royal Regimentof Canadian Artillery

Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II

Colonel Commandant, The Royal RegimentOf Canadian Artillery

Brigadier General E.B. Beno, OMM, CD

Senior Serving GunnerLieutenant General A.B. Leslie, CMM, MSC,

MSM, CD

Director of ArtilleryColonel D.D. Marshall, OMM, CD

Commander Home StationLieutenant-Colonel L.J.M. Généreux, CD

Editor-in-ChiefVacant

Managing EditorCaptain R.W. Vandermolen, CD

ProductionThe Shilo Stag

PrintersLeech Printing Ltd.

The Canadian Gunner is published annually and is financed

by the RCA Regimental Fund and subscriptions.The views expressed by the authors are their own and do not

necessarily reflect official policy.All copy and photos submitted become the property of The

Canadian Gunner unless accompanied by a statement that they are on loan and are required to be returned.

Scholars may feel free to quote from articles in The Cana-dian Gunner in whole or in part, provided that normal source acknowledgement is made. The editors, in this respect would appreciate a copy of all works using The Canadian Gunner as source material.

Capitaine-général. le Régiment royalde l’Artillerie canadienne

Sa Majesté la Reine Elizabeth II

Colonel commandant, le Régiment royalde l’Artillerie canadienne

Brigadier Général E.B. Beno, OMM, CD

Artilleur en service principalLieutenant Général A.B. Leslie, CMM, MSC,

MSM, CD

Directeur de l’ArtillerieColonel D.D. Marshall, OMM, CD

Commandant de la garnison RégimentaireLieutenant-Colonel L.J.M. Généreux , CD

Rédacteur en chefVacant

Directeur de la rédactionCapitaine R.W. Vandermolen, CD

ProductionThe Shilo Stag

ImprimeursLeech Printing Ltd.

L’Artilleur canadien est une publication annuelle fiancée par le Fonds régimentaire de l’ARC et a bonn ement.

Les auteurs expriment leur propre opinion et il ne s’agit pas nécessairement de la politque offcielle.

Tous les textes et les photos soumis deviennent propriétés de l’Artilleur canadien, à moins qu’ils ne soient accompagnés d’un avis indiquant qu’ils ne sont que prêtés et qu’ils doivent être retournés.

Les étudiants peuvent citer en tout ou en partie des articles de l’Artilleur canadien, à condition d’en citer la source. Dans ce même domaine, les rédacteurs aimeraient recevoir un exem-plaire de tout travail citant l’Artilleur canadien comme ouvrage de référence.

Volume 44 April 2010Avril 2010

THE CANADIAN GUNNER L’ARTILLEUR CANADIEN

2 L’Artilleur Canadien

Table of Contents

Mot du Colonel Commandant/Message from the Colonel Commandant .......................................................................................................................4

Mot du Directeur de L’Artillerie/Message from the Director of Artillery ............................................................................................................................6

1st Regiment Royal Canadian Horse Artillery .................................................................................................................8

2nd Regiment Royal Canadian Horse Artillery ...............................................................................................................10

5é Régiment d’artillerie légère du Canada ....................................................................................................................12

4th Air Defence Regiment, RCA ....................................................................................................................................14

Royal Canadian Artillery SchoolÉcole d’artillerie de campagne .....................................................................................................................................16

Royal Canadian Artillery Band ......................................................................................................................................18

1st (Halifax-Dartmouth) Field Artillery Regiment and 84th Independent Field Battery, RCA .........................................................................................................Did not submit

2nd Field Artillery Regiment, RCA ..................................................................................................................................19

3rd Field Artillery Regiment, RCA ..................................................................................................................................20

5th (British Columbia) Field Artillery Regiment, RCA .....................................................................................................21

6é Régiment d’Artillerie de Campagne, ARC ................................................................................................................22

7th Toronto Regiment, RCA ...........................................................................................................................................23

38th CBG Artillery Tactical Group (10th Field Artillery Regiment, 26th Field Artillery Regiment, 116th Independent Field Battery) ......................................24

11th Field Artillery Regiment, RCA ..............................................................................................................Did not submit

15th Field Artillery Regiment, RCA ................................................................................................................................26





62é Régiment d’Artillerie de Campagne, ARC ..............................................................................................................31

1st Air Defence Regiment(Landmark and Renfrew Scottish), RCA....................................................................................................Did not submit

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18th Air Defence Regiment, RCA ..................................................................................................................................32

RHQ RCA/QGR ARC ...................................................................................................................................................33

RCA Museum/Musée de l’ARC............................................................................................................................................................34

Royal Canadian Artillery Association/L’Association de l’artillerie royale canadienne...............................................................................................................35

Règlements de la compétition pour l’essai en Mémoire du Colonel Geoffrey Brooks/The Colonel Geoffrey Brooks Essay Rules and Submission Deadlines .......................................................................36

Proud Supporters of The Royal Regiment of Canadian Artillery/Les supporters fier nos contributeurs au La Régiment royal de l’Artillerie canadienne ................................................37

Regimental Fund Financial Statement 09-10/État de Compte du Fond Régimentaire 09-10 ..............................................................................................................38

The Royal Regiment of Canadian Artillery Listing by Rank/Liste par Grade du Régiment royal de l’Artillerie canadienne ......................................................................................39


Message from the Colonel Commandant

Mot duColonel Commandant

The Guns! Thank God, the Guns! That is an expression that has not been echoed in decades. But, the “Guns,” that is, Canada’s Gunners, are making a significant dif-ference in Afghanistan today. We Gunners are fighting the fight alongside our Infantry, Armoured and Engi-neer teams, and we are highly integrated in all levels of operations from the section to the theatre level. We are leading the way as the eyes, ears, sensors, nerve sys-tem and fighting arms of the battles. In the early nineties, the peacekeeping era, the Guns were fast becoming an extinct species. Our potential contribution on the battle-field was not clearly evident to all in the Army, and our very raison d’être was in question. But no matter what the flavour of the day was, there was a hard core of Gun-ners that kept alive the battle-winning concepts and skill-sets that they knew would one day be called upon. Well, that day has arrived, and the theatre of operations is Afghanistan – and the Gunners are doing more than their share of the heavy lifting. The infantry and armoured go nowhere without their guns in range, ammunition at hand, and a plan for the rapid application of all available Gunner assets and capabilities.

This annual “Canadian Gunner” tells this story and that of the people who make up the Gunner family – soldiers who are proud, professional, enthusiastic and dedicated. It tells the story of those in the front lines, and those who make it possible for the Gunners in theatre to achieve what the great accomplishments they have. It tells the story of our Regiments, families, friends and supporters

L’artillerie! Dieu merci, l’artillerie! Voilà une expression que nous n’avons pas entendue depuis des décennies. Mais « l’artillerie », en fait l’artillerie canadienne, fait toute la différence en Afghanistan actuellement. Nous, les artilleurs, luttons aux côtés de notre infanterie, de nos blindés et de nos troupes du génie. Nous sommes hautement intégrés, à tous les échelons, depuis celui de la section jusqu’au théâtre même des opéra-tions. Nous montrons le chemin en étant les yeux, les oreilles, les capteurs, le système nerveux et les bras combattants des batailles. Au début des années 1990, à l’époque des missions de paix, l’artillerie était en train de devenir rapidement une espèce en voie d’extinction. Notre contribution potentielle sur le champ de bataille n’était alors pas évidente pour beaucoup de monde dans l’armée, et notre raison d’être même était remise en question. Mais en dépit du goût du jour, un noyau d’artilleurs coriaces subsistait, maintenant en vie les concepts de victoire sur le champ de bataille et les compétences requises qui al-laient être nécessaires à nouveau un jour. Et bien ce jour est arrivé, et le théâtre des opérations, c’est l’Afghanistan – et les artilleurs font vraiment leur part. L’infanterie et les blindés ne vont nulle part en dehors de la portée de l’artillerie, dotée de stocks de munitions à proximité, et d’un plan pour l’application rapide de toutes les capacités et forces de l’artillerie.

Ce numéro annuel de L’Artilleur canadien raconte cette his-toire, comme celle des membres de la famille des artilleurs – des militaires qui sont de fiers professionnels, enthousiastes et dévoués. Il relate l’histoire de ceux qui sont au front, et de ceux qui permettent aux artilleurs du théâtre d’effectuer leurs grands accomplissements. Il reprend l’histoire de nos régiments, de

5Canadian Gunner

– those we cherish, those we have lost, and those who carry on the fight. And what a wonderful story it is.

In the coming year I will strive to make more Gunners join or re-join our associations, networks, re-unions and functions. The leadership of the Royal Regiment is fully engaged in transforming and energizing the “gov-ernance” of our Regimental family. There are numerous initiatives that will help tell our wonderful story, and I’d like all who are part of our extended family to connect, do what you can, and enjoy the comradeship and friend-ship of our/your Royal Regiment. We will need a sense of solidarity, cohesion and family as we move into the future – and by telling our story, the Annual Canadian Gunner reminds who we are, where we are and where we should be going.

Good Shooting to all!

Ubique!

Ernest BenoColonel Commandant

nos familles, de nos amis et soutiens – ceux que nous chéris-sons, ceux que nous avons perdus, et ceux qui poursuivent le combat. Et quelle merveilleuse histoire cela est.

Cette année, je tenterai d’encourager encore plus d’artilleurs à devenir ou redevenir membre de nos associations et réseaux, et à participer à nos réunions et fonctions. Le leadership du Ré-giment royal de l’Artillerie canadienne est pleinement engagé dans la transformation et la revitalisation de la « gouvernance » de notre famille régimentaire. De nombreuses initiatives nous aideront à relater notre merveilleuse histoire, et j’aimerais que tous ceux qui font partie de notre grande famille élargie communiquent avec nous et fassent ce qu’ils peuvent, profitant de la camaraderie et de l’amitié de notre régiment loyal. Nous aurons besoin des sens de la solidarité, de la cohésion et de la famille pour aller de l’avant – et en racontant notre histoire, le numéro annuel de L’Artilleur canadien nous rappelle qui nous sommes, où nous en sommes, et où nous devons aller.

Bon tir à tous!

Ubique!

Ernest BenoColonel commandant

Colonel Commandant serves as “Number 2” with “C” Battery, at Sperwan Ghar, Afghanistan, Saint Bar-bara’s day, 4 December 2009

Le colonel commandant a servi comme no 2 avec la Batterie C, à Sperwan Ghar, Afghanistan, le jour de la Sainte-Barbe, le 4 décembre 2009


Message from the Director of Artillery

Mot duDirecteur de L’Artillerie

Fellow Gunners,

In the 2008 edition of “The Canadian Gunner” I articulated my focus of activity for 2009 along three lines of operations- to strengthen the positional gains made during the last year; to bring about a lessons learned process from our operational experiences; and to visit as many Reserve units as possible. I am happy to report progress in all three areas.

Our transformational goals have been accepted and endorsed by the Army leadership. Our structural changes in the Regular Force Regiments will commence in 2010 with the stand-up of the Observation Batterys (Z, Y and V Btys). In 2011, we will stand up our Surveillance and Target Acquisition (STA) Batterys in those same Regts. The equipment sets for the latter batterys are moving into the procurement process now. We will be able to establish a western and eastern fleet of SUAV, with every troop having the sufficient training equipment to conduct meaningful C2 and simulation flying training. Once combat operations are completed in Afghanistan, we will re-set the HALO and LCMR equipment inventory and reallocate accordingly to Regular and Reserve units.

We still have a number of newer challenges to face in the interim period. Due to a combination of financial stresses felt on DND (and the rest of the government, for that matter), the Long Range Precision Rocket System procurement has been delayed for up to two years. However, the Multi Role Radar Project (required for both weapon locating and air defence applications) remains on track. The Army’s announcement to divest the ADATS system commencing

Chers artilleurs,

Dans l’édition 2008 de l’Artilleur canadien, j’ai présenté le point de mire de mes activités pour 2009 selon trois lignes d’opération – renforcer les gains positionnels effectués au cours de l’an dernier, appliquer un processus basé sur les leçons apprises de nos expériences opérationnelles, et visiter autant d’unités de Réserve que possible. Je suis heureux d’annoncer que des progrès ont été effectués dans ces trois volets.

Nos objectifs de transformation ont été acceptés et endossés par le leadership de l’Armée. Nos changements structurels au sein des régiments de la Force régulière commenceront en 2010, avec la mise sur pied des batteries d’observation (Z, Y et V). En 2011, nous mettrons sur pied nos batteries de surveillance et acquisition d’objectifs (SAO) dans ces mêmes régiments. Le processus d’approvisionnement du matériel pour ces batteries ne cesse de progresser. Nous serons en mesure d’établir des parcs de véhicules est et ouest de SUAV, chaque troupe ayant suffisamment de matériel d’instruction pour effectuer une instruction significative en matière de simulation de vol et avec le C2. Après la fin des opérations de combat en Afghanistan, nous réorganiserons l’inventaire du matériel HALO et RLRM et procéderont à sa redistribution au sein des unités de la Force régulière et de la Réserve.

Nous avons de nouveaux défis à relever en attendant. Avec le stress financier qui est venu frapper le MDN (tout comme le reste du gouvernement), l’acquisition du système de roquettes de précision à longue portée est reportée d’au moins deux ans. Toutefois, le projet de radar multi-rôle (nécessaire pour les applications de positionnement de pièces et de défense aérienne) est toujours en cours. L’annonce par l’armée de se départir du système ADATS à partir de 2011 nous pousse à rechercher rapidement une nouvelle solution afin de

7Canadian Gunner

in 2011 causes us to push hard in finding a new solution in order to minimize the gap in AD capability. For Gunners, it remains a massive undertaking to manage and monitor all of these projects and see them through to fielding.

During 2010 we will need to take the next move in validating our Reserve Force structures. This flows logically from the analysis undertaken to assign them operational tasks in support of the Reg F units. We must ensure that our Reserve units remain healthy, vibrant and relevant to the mission. In doing so, we must also ensure that we cater to those unique features of reserve units in order to maximize training and career development.

Within the training domain, I have directed further refinement to our most precious courses- the IG and AIG courses. Commencing in 2009, I directed an integrated AIG course to incorporate Field, STA, OP and AD disciplines to be taught to all. In 2010 we will conduct an integrated pilotIG course to combine both the FD and AD disciplines. In 2011, I eexpect to see further refinement on the latter with a strong module on STA. The expansion of the “streams” now beinng faced by Officers and NCOs alike are forcing us down this path. Generally speaking, we must have better knnowledge of all the streams if we are to be able to offer flexibility of career and employment opportunities. At the recent AMOR in Ottawa I also served notice that ecent AMOR in Ottawa I also served notice thatecent AMOR in Ottawa I also served notice that it was timme for the Gunners to compress into one trade- Artillerymman. Our future capabilities combined with a crush on our institutional framework and limited training budgets, demand tthat we re-think how we can train and man all these capabilities. I will mature this concept during 2010.

Stayingg on the theme of training, I was most impressed by my visit tto the Reserve Summer Training venue at Sault StMarie and Grayling, MI, ably supported by 49th Field RegtRCA this hispast summer. I was able to meet Gunner students and instrructors from all over Ontario and the Maritime provincess. I was also heartened by shorter visits to 5th Field Reggt, 11th Field Regt and 30th Field Regt. I am very pleased tto report that the Reserve Gunners remain highly motivatedd and eager to serve alongside in operations- a jobthat they are doing tremendously well. are doing tremendously wellare doing tremendously well.

Finally,, and after a long period of neglect, we should see a more vvibrant and capable RHQ RCA staff “taking post” in the summer of 2010. I have tried to push as much talent as possible into RHQ in order to meet the hefty load of important Regimental family issues still unattended.

By the time most of the Gunner community is able to read this messsage, I will likely have relinquished my appointment as Directtor and taken up new duties in the service of the CF. Thiss two year term has gone fast- too fast. I remain tremendoously grateful to The Colonel Commandant and Arty Council ffor their heightened engagement, trust and wise counsel. I am equally indebted to the support of the small team of ““Ninjas” who have helped move the yardsticks and kept me ssmart with sterling situational awareness. Special thanks to the Deputy Director, senior School staff, and the o the Deputy Director senior School staff and theo the Deputy Director, senior School staff, and the DLR and DAD/DAT teams.

I wishh continued success to all Gunners serving on operationns at home or abroad. 2010 will be one of the busiest yyears for Gunners as they support all manner of operationns including ATHENA, PODIUM, HESTIA and CADENCCE.

Good Luck and Good Shooting to All,Luck and Good Shooting to All,g

UBIQUUE !

minimiser le vide en matière de capacité AA. Pour les artilleurs, cela reste une entreprise massive que de gérer et de contrôler tous ces projets et de voir à leurs applications sur le terrain.

Au cours de 2010, nous devrons entreprendre la prochaine étape de validation des structures de nos forces de Réserve. Cela découle logiquement de l’analyse entreprise afin de les assigner à des tâchesopérationnelles en soutien aux unités de la force régulière. Nous devonsnous assurer que nos unités de Réserve restent en santé, vibrantes et pertinentes à la mission. Ce faisant, nous devons également nousassurer que nous répondons aux caractéristiques uniques des unités de la Réserve afin de maximiser l’instruction et le perfectionnement professionnel.

Dans le domaine de l’instruction, j’ai ordonné que l’on améliore nos cours les plus précieux - les cours IA et IAA. Dès 2009, j’ai dirigé un cours IAA intégré afin d’y incorporer les disciplines Artillerie de campagne,SAO, OP et AA à enseigner à tous. En 2010, nous effectuerons uncours pilote IA intégré afin de combiner les disciplines Artillerie de

e un cours campagne et AA. En 2011, je m’attends à ce qu’on obtiennsion des « AA plus raffiné, avec un module SAO bien établi. L’expan

e les sous-tendances » confronte maintenant autant les officiers queérale, nous officiers, et nous force à emprunter cette voie. De façon généons être en devons mieux connaître toutes les tendances si nous voulod’emploi etmesure d’offrir plus de souplesse en matière de possibilités dremarquer de carrière. Au récent EAGPM à Ottawa, j’ai également fait

qu’il était temps que tous les artilleurs soient réunis dans un groupe qu’il était temps que tous les artilleurs soient réunis dansqu il était temps que tous les artilleurs soient réunis dans ées avec la professionnel à leur nom. Nos capacités à venir, combiné’instruction réduction de notre cadre institutionnel et nos budgets d

s enseigner limités, exigent que nous repensions comment nous allonspt au cours et doter ces capacités. Je vais me pencher sur ce concep

de 2010. pressionné Toujours sur le thème de l’instruction, j’ai été très impRéserve à par ma visite lors de la saison estivale d’instruction de la utenue par Sault St Marie et à Grayling, au Michigan, savamment souccasion de le 49e Régiment d’artillerie de campagne, ARC. J’ai eu l’oc

ovenant de rencontrer des stagiaires et instructeurs de l’Artillerie pront apprécié partout en Ontario et des provinces Maritimes. J’ai égalemene plaisir de mes visites aux 5 RAC, 11 RAC et 30 RAC. J’ai l’extrêmet motivés et rapporter que les artilleurs de la Réserve restent hautement opérations toujours avides de servir aux côtés de la Force régulière en

– un travail qu’ils accomplissent extrêmement bien– un travail qu ils accomplissent extrêmement bien. evrions voir Enfin, après une longue période de négligence, nous defonction au du personnel plus vibrant et capable de l’ARC entrer en fnt possiblePCR dès l’été 2010. J’ai tenté de faire entrer le plus de talequestions au PCR afin d’abattre l’énorme tâche de répondre aux

s. importantes de la famille régimentaire toujours non résoluesge, j’aurai Lorsque la collectivité des artilleurs lira ce messagur m’atteler vraisemblablement déjà quitté mon poste de directeur pouon de deuxà de nouvelles tâches au service des FC. Cette affectatioonnaissant ans a passé vraiment trop vite. Je suis extrêmement reco

eur profondau colonel commandant et au Conseil de l’artillerie pour le Je tiens engagement, leur confiance et leurs sages conseils.soutien qui également à souligner combien je suis reconnaissant du sm’ont aidé m’a été apporté par les petites équipes de « ninjas » qui la situationà apprécier les faits et en m’offrant une connaissance de l

incomparable. Je remercie tout spécialement le directeur adjoint, le incomparable Je remercie tout spécialement le directeurincomparable. Je remercie tout spécialement le directeur personnel de l’École et les équipes DBRT et DDAT/DIAT.

la réussite Je souhaite à tous les artilleurs de continuer de connaître sera l’une en opérations, au pays comme à l’étranger. L’année 2010u’ils seront des plus occupées qui soient pour les artilleurs, alors quopérations appelés à soutenir plusieurs opérations, notamment les

Athena, Podium, Hestia et Cadence. Bonne chance et bon tir à tous,

UBIQUE !


1st RegimentRoyal Canadian Horse Artillery

BREECH

What a year for the First Regiment! 2009 struck with a boom, flew at muzzle velocity and disappeared like a round from the gun position. It feels as if 2009 lasted no longer than a simple fire plan: that is, until we reflect on our countless achievements. Given Op PALACI, Op ATHENA (TF 5-08, TF 5-09, & TF 3-09), Op PODIUM, and Op PALACI again, we’re starting to wonder if First Regiment means “task them first.” It really was a year to be proud of.

FIRE ORDERS (COMMAND)

The first signal that 2009 would be different was the Feb Change of Command (CoC). The CO, LCol Tim Bishop, 2IC, Maj David Jones and RCPO, Capt Andrew Charchuk were among 1 RCHA’s twelve soldiers deployed with TF5-09 Headquarters Joint Task Force Afghanistan (HQ JTF Afg) with BGen Jon Vance on 22 Feb. This precipitated the early CoC: the CO Designate, LCol Tim Young, already deployed (TF 5-08), came to Shilo to take command of The First Regiment on 4 Feb. Back to Afghanistan, LCol Young left 1 RCHA in the very capable hands of acting CO, Maj Todd Scharlach, who, in turn handed command of HQ & Svcs Bty to Capt Bob Mead. It would be months before Maj Glen ‘Hambro’ Hamilton-Brown would join 1 RCHA, to take command of HQ & Svcs Bty on 10 July. On 8 July, Maj Hamilton-Brown also became 2IC. Gun Bty Comd remained unchanged throughout 2009: A Bty – Maj Tyler Kennedy; B Bty – Maj Julien Richard; and C Bty – Maj Shawn Fortin. New to 1 RCHA command team in 2009 were: Tech Adjt, Capt Peter Piotrowski; ETQMS, MWO Gino Babin; Signals Officer, Capt Scot Johnston; and Signals Warrant, Sgt Harold “Butch” Keating. Nonetheless, nothing was simple this year.

FIRE MISSIONS (OPERATIONS)

The First Regiment deployed 286 soldiers on three Ops. In fact, six Op contingents throughout 2009 were: Op PALACI 08/09 (AVCON), Op ATHENA TF 5-08 (HQ TF Afg), Op ATHENA TF 5-09 (HQ TF Afg), Op ATHENA TF 3-09 (TF Afg Roto 8), Op PODIUM (Security: Vancouver Olympics 2010), and Op PALACI 09/10. While not all of these were at once, Op ATHENA Roto 8 stood up on Ground Hog Day (2 Feb), was still deployed on 31 December, and comprised 204 of these 286 soldiers. Given pre-deployment preparations, as

well as rear party support for all of these rotations, 1 RCHA activity was easily comparable to a Divisional Level Joint-Offensive Fire Plan.

Op PALACI is Avalanche Control (AVCON) in Roger’s Pass, BC and 26 Fd Regt and 15 Fd Regt supported this Op with significant manpower on Roto 2 in Jan and Feb. As always, two gun dets under command of a TC and a TSM punched hundreds of projectiles into those snow packs surrounding Roger’s Pass, under guidance of Parks Canada, to keep the Trans-Canada Highway clear. Causing avalanches in the Canadian Rockies by howitzer: now that’s a cool mission! Roto 1 of the following winter season in Nov and Dec saw B and HQ & Svcs Bty’s deploy all thirteen soldiers under Lt Meyers and WO Waterfield. In 2010 Roto 2 under Capt Brown and WO Henry & Roto 3 under Lt Pryor and WO Ballard will be manned primarily by 26 Fd Regt soldiers.

Op ATHENA occupied most of First Regiment’s focus through the first eight months of 2009. While TF5-08 (Op ATHENA HQ TF Afg) was an LFCA & 2 CMBG led Roto, 1 RCHA lays claim because LCol Young became CO on 4 Feb and remained deployed as part of HQ Task Force Kandahar (TF Afg). This was no small detail, because command of The First Regiment began a tumultuous time: the departing CO, 2IC, and RCPO were deploying on the next Roto of Op ATHENA HQ TF Afg (TF 5-09). This left an acting CO without a 2IC, and a captain in command of HQ & Svcs Bty for a critical training and pre-deployment period for FG of almost 300 soldiers, including operational replacements, for both Op ATHENA and Op PODIUM. LCol Young arrived in April to take the reins

9Canadian Gunner

when 1 CMBG was deployed in CFB Suffield on FTX DESERT RAM, the TF 3-09 Road to High Readiness FTX. Of particular note for this FTX, was that the LFWA Primary Reserve FTX WESTERN DEFENDER occurred concurrently. Given great inter-operability inherent to Artillery, we were able to field a regular-reserve multi-battery regimental organization and conducted the first regimental fire missions in years. FTX DESERT RAM saw C Bty Gp, built from all elements of 1 RCHA as the TF 3-09 Composite Arty Bty within the 1 PPCLI BG, shooting Rocket Assisted Projectiles (RAP) and “almost” firing an Excalibur round! Advanced Fast Air and Target Acquisition activity rounded out some outstanding artillery training for 1 RCHA overall and for the C Bty Group and all other elements of TF 3-09 specifically. FTX DESERT RAM also saw A Bty, as the heart of 1 RCHA’s contribution to the TF 3-09 Operational Mentor & Liaison Team (OMLT), under the over-arching organization of 3 PPCLI, develop the cohesion and professionalism required to become Artillery Subject Matter Experts for the Afghan National Security Forces (ANSF). Continuation training for TF 3-09 continued in Wainwright with FTX MAPLE GUARDIAN and in Shilo with FTX BRAVE RAM and included Counter IED, Battle Inoculation/I n d o c t r i n a t i o n , Ambush Ranges, and more Gunnery and Individual Skills until TF 3-09 deployed in October for an extended seven month tour.

Op PODIUM was the CF support to security of the 2010 Olympic Games held in Vancouver but preparations including multiple exercises started in earnest by mid 2009. Being all that remained in The First Regiment after TF 3-09 was committed; the remainder of B Bty, HQ & Svcs Bty, and RHQ committed 50 soldiers to two main elements: Lt Richardson and WO Reinders commanded 37 soldiers as the Defence and Security (D&S) Platoon to HQ 1 CMBG, the Land Comd Component (LCC)

HQ; and the CO commanded 10 officers and warrant officers as the Liaison Group. This Group comprised three liaison teams to numerous HQ/Centres: The Air Comd Component & Maritime

Comd Component (ACC/MCC) Team, Emergency Ops Centres Team (EOC), and the Integrated Security Unit (ISU) Team.

RECCE & D E P L O Y M E N T (TRAINING & FUN)

As if six contingents for three Ops weren’t enough, there remained two key investments for future: support to Indiv Trg internal and external (tasks) to the Regiment. Possessing one of the best CF FAC

capabilities meant that 1 RCHA supported all Army FAC activities both across Canada and in the USA. Summer saw B and HQ Bty support WATC Det Shilo and RCAS DP1.1 with a Firing Troop. Fall saw the commencement of an unprecedented list of PCFs to start the road to readiness for TF1-11. But we would be remiss if we didn’t mention that St Barbara’s: the Kingston Cup Tournament was still played even though the unit strength on that day was only 89 all ranks with Op PODIUM pers deployed on FTX KAPYONG

SASQUATCH. F u r t h e r , the officers defended the trophy in Sr NCOs vs Offrs Hockey Game: of course, that isn’t something to brag about as the trophy ‘Skate Boot’ goes to the losers!

MUZZLE

It really was some year. The final word goes to 20 Oct: our 138th birthday. We held a little ceremony that

was indicative of the year: the CO and RSM were away due to Op PODIUM, again; so, we few and proud that remained within the lines of 1 RCHA cut a cake with a sword and shared a few quiet moments together reflecting on the great history and tradition of our regiment, The First Regiment.

UBIQUE !


2nd RegimentRoyal Canadian Horse Artillery

2 RCHA underwent a significant change of personnel and leadership over the course of the 2009 Annual Posting Season (APS). Lieutenant Colonel Liam McGarry took over command of the Regiment from Lieutenant Colonel Craig Dalton on June 9th, with Chief Warrant Officer Dan Moyer assuming Regimental Sergeant Major duties from Chief Warrant Officer Chris Rusk. Major Stewart Gallagher handed over the command of Headquarters Battery to Major Chris Sines in July.

F BatteryMeanwhile, F Battery was into

its fourth month of deployment to Afghanistan at the beginning of the 2009 calendar year. Major Stuart Taylor and Master Warrant Officer Roland Smith made up the command team with 171 personnel of all ranks serving in three 155mm M777 Howitzer gun troops, five FOO/FAC parties, a Surveillance & Target Acquisition (STA) Battery, a Fire Support Control Center (FSCC), the Battery Quartermaster & Stores (BQMS), and the Battery Headquarters (BHQ).

The gun troops continued to provide quick and accurate fire support to the 3 RCR Battle Group on countless operations. Captain Chris Sykora was in command of E Troop out of Forward Operating Base (FOB) Wilson with Captain Grant Seale as his Troop Leader. Captain Stuart Evans and Lieutenant Lee Bellemore had F Troop in Patrol Base (PB) Sperwan Ghar while G Troop was deployed in FOB Ramrod in support of the American Task Force 2-2 with Captain Adam James in command and Captain Mike Lavery as the Troop Leader.

The FOO/FAC parties were arguably the most powerful instruments available to the combat team commanders throughout the duration of the tour. M Company Combat Team had G31, under Captain Cory Gillis, providing joint fire support. Captain Justin Brunelle and G32 were attached to N Company in FOB Wilson while Captain Caleb Walker had G33 in support of the tanks in FOB Ma’sum Ghar. G34, Captain Frank Gould, was attached to D squadron and operated on the far eastern flank of the Area of Operations (AO) out of FOB Frontenac. Captain Vanderveen and G35 had the distinct experience of providing fire support to the OMLT and ANA after having established an FSCC of their

own in FOB Wilson. Captain Alan Vamos, along with Master Warrant

Officer Paul Alexander, commanded the STA troop which was spread out across the entire AO, feeding information back to the TOC on a regular basis. The LCMR, HALO, and TUAV detachments were responsible for detecting countless enemy engagements and locations throughout the 7-8 month tour.

F Battery’s tour in Afghanistan did not come and go without its battle damage. Sergeant Cory Peckford and Bombardier Adam Boutiller were wounded by an IED attack earlier on in the tour while Captain Justin Brunelle was severely wounded by another IED attack while on a dismounted patrol near the tour’s end. G39’s party also hit an IED during the first few months of the tour but suffered no serious injuries.

F Battery returned to Canada after decompression in Cyprus over the March – May time frame. Many of its members were posted out to various regiments, schools, and other positions. The remainder of F Battery stood down on 22 June 2009 and stood up as E Battery. Major Sonny Hatton and Master Warrant Officer Roland Smith made up the command team with 129 personnel of all ranks. Former F Battery FOO, Captain Caleb Walker became the BK while

2 RCHA Jr NCMs march towards the mess for the 2009 Men’s Christmas Dinner

11Canadian Gunner

the Captains Evans, Sykora, and James went to Gagetown on their FOO course.

E BatteryE Battery’s first task was to provide support to the Royal

Canadian Artillery School’s DP1.1 Arty Officer course which was running out of CFB Petawawa. The Battery committed its available personnel to all of the field exercises. E Battery gunners fielded two complete Gun Troops less the key positions which were being staffed by the course candidates.

Once the DP1.1 course was finished, E Battery shifted its focus to supporting D Battery as they prepared to deploy on Task Force 1-10. E Battery’s veteran members became crucial assets in providing training, guidance, and support to the deploying Battery. Simultaneously, E Battery began to shake out its leadership as new officers were posted in to take command of the Troops and new Senior NCOs moved into key positions to replace those who had been posted. E Battery began PCF courses in the fall of 2009 to qualify its young bombardiers as Artillery Technicians and PLQ mods 1-5. Between taskings, supporting D Battery and various courses, E Battery remained very thin on the ground up until Christmas. The remaining soldiers prepared for their eventual trip down south to support Task Force 1-10’s training in California for Exercise MAPLE GUARDIAN.

E Battery was tasked in October to support a Key Stakeholders visit called Exercise COLLABORATIVE SPIRIT. The Battery organized and ran the weapons familiarization stand, the M777 static display, and the night time firepower demonstration for the Chief of Land Staff and other VIPs. The event was a success and can only be attributed to the hard work of E Battery gunners.

Major Sines, Captains John O’Brien and Jason Vallis, Master Corporal Ron Cox, Lieutenant Alistar Galabrath (E Battery) and WO John Stewart (BQ D Battery) participated in Exercise READY GRIFFON from 8 – 11 September at CFB Trenton. The 3 day exercise provided a detailed overview of DART Operations and gave participants a chance to network. 2 RCHA is responsible for providing the DART Company HQ element and overseeing the manning of the remainder of the DART Company from units based at CFB Petawawa.

D BatteryMajor Steve Haire and Master Warrant Officer Bob Beaudry

had plenty of challenges before them in leading D Battery along the road to High Readiness and their eventual deployment overseas next year. The Battery was tasked as the Immediate Response Unit (IRU) throughout the winter months and into the early summer. If a natural disaster or similar event would have occurred during that time frame, D Battery would have provided the first response by CF personnel. D Battery stood up as part of Task Force 1-10 on 22 September.

The following months were largely devoted to making sure the right individuals received the right qualifications for D Battery to stand up with Task Force 1-10. Within the Regimental school, D Battery ran a Det 2 I/C course, Recce Tech course and an Arty Comms course, as well as qualifying soldiers to operate the LG-1 and 81mm mortar. RWS Operator courses for the Brigade were also conducted by the Battery.

D Battery also took part in Exercise ROYAL FIGHTER as part of their pre-deployment training, and as the year drew to a close continued to prepare for Exercise MAPLE GUARDIAN, which is to be held at Fort Irwin, California in 2010.

November 11th saw the Regiment parading in Renfrew and Portage du Fort and a few select members even had the opportunity to visit with Prince Charles and his wife Camilla during the Royal visit to CFB Petawawa. The Regiment commemorated the Canoe River disaster of 21 November 1951 with a memorial parade in the Regimental lines and rounded the year out with the traditional St. Barbara’s Day celebrations and Sports Day.

On 4 December the Regiment mustered to hear the history of St. Barbara and begin a day of sports and celebration. The day’s results were split evenly between D and HQ Batteries, with D Battery winning the Tug of War and the Floor hockey competitions, and HQ Battery winning the Dodge ball and ice hockey competitions. Later in the day the Gunners and Bombardiers won against the Masters in round-robin ice hockey. However, it was Warrant Officer Brian Quigley who ‘stole the show’ with his on-ice antics and solid playing skills during the final Officer’s and Senior NCOs hockey game. The game remained tied at the end of regulation play, necessitating a sudden death shoot-out. On his final attempt it was Warrant Quigley again who scored what proved to be the winning goal, ending both an exciting game, and an eventful day.

Bdr Boutilier receives the Sacrificial Medal from Comd 2 CMBG Col Eyre.


5e Régimentd’artillerie légère du Canada

PASSATION DE COMMANDEMENT 5e RALC 7 MAI 2009

Jeudi le 7 mai 2009, le régiment a paradé afin de souligner la passation de commandement du régiment. Le lieutenant-colonel J.S.S.D. Fortin, CD qui a commandé le régiment lors des deux dernières années, a remis le commandement du 5e RALC au lieutenant-colonel L.H.P.S. Boucher, CD. La parade fut formée pour 1400 heures. Elle était sous la présidence du Col D. Ménard, CD, Colonel Commandant 5e GBMC. Nos invités d’honneur, étaient le BGen Beno, OMM, CD, Colonel Commandant de l’Artillerie Royale Canadienne, ainsi que le Col D.D. Marshall, CD, Directeur de la branche de l’Artillerie. La revue terminée et les allocutions complétées, le régiment a procédé au défilé monté, paradant ainsi nos couleurs qui sont nos obusiers. Une fois le défilé terminé, le régiment ainsi que les invités se sont déplacés vers le régiment, pour un cocktail, qui fut servi afin de se rencontrer et bavarder dans une ambiance détendue. Le lieutenant-colonel Fortin nous quitte pour rejoindre la FO 6/09 en tant que Chef d’état-major du Quartier Général de la Force Opérationnelle Inter-armée Afghanistan. Il a laissé sa marque au 5e RALC et il demeurera toujours dans nos cœurs. Le lieutenant-colonel Stéphane Boucher devra faire face à de nombreux défis comme les montées en puissance des Forces Opérationnelles 6-09 et 3-10, la création de la batterie d’observation au sein du régiment ainsi que le support au cours de carrière nationaux qui seront tenue au 5e RALC en partenariat avec l’École de l’Artillerie Royale Canadienne.

Une journée de sport au 5 RALC – Course Whalen

Le 25 août, les membres du 5e Régiment d’artillerie légère du Canada (5 RALC) ont participé à la 27e course Whalen. La course de cinq kilomètres a donné le coup d’envoi à la populaire journée sportive du régiment, qui comprend également des tournois de softball et de hockey-balle. Le lieutenant-colonel Stéphane Boucher, commandant du 5 RALC, a commencé la journée en racontant l’histoire de la course aux membres de son unité, en soulignant les accomplissements impressionnants du sergent Éric Whalen «Celui qui a donné son nom à la course Whalen». Soulignons également que le sgt Whalen était présent pour la course et a marché le 5 km, bien fait pour une homme de 76 ans. Cette année, la course a été remportée par le lieutenant Alexandre Lessard avec un temps impressionnant de 18:40. Il a été suivi de l’adjudant André Ouellet avec 19:41 (premier dans le classement des 40 ans et plus) et en troisième place, du caporal-chef Jean-François Thibeault avec un temps de 20:01. Le reste de la journée a été consacré à diverses activités telles que des matches de softball et de hockey-balle. Malgré la diversité des connaissances sportives et des intérêts de chacun, l’effort et la détermination de tous les membres du 5 RALC étaient au rendez-vous. Au softball, le tournoi a été remporté par la batterie Q tandis qu‘une équipe composée des membres de la batterie X a gagné

le tournoi de hockey-balle. Félicitations à tous les participants qui se sont souvenus du bon exemple du sgt Whalen et qui s’efforcent d’améliorer continuellement leur condition physique.

FO 1-09 Bie R : Un nombre record d’obus tirés par l’artillerie canadienne – Batterie R - Afghanistan

Pour bien rendre justice à cette rotation en Afghanistan, nous reprenons le texte d’un article publié dans l’Adsum (journal de la Garnson Valcartier) et rédigé par : lieutenant Marie-Ève Labonté, Par les bombardiers Guimont et Talbot, l’artilleur Gagnon et le lieutenant Yoann Leclerc-Desjardins.

« Notre troupe d’artillerie va très bien. Elle est formée d’une quarantaine de personnes, membres du 5e Régiment d’artillerie légère du Canada de Valcartier, mais qui font partie en Afghanistan de la batterie R du Groupement tactique du 2e Bataillon, Royal 22e Régiment (GT 2 R22eR). Depuis notre arrivée le 1er avril, nous appuyons activement les opérations du GT 2 R22eR. La chaleur ces temps-ci est vraiment étouffante. On a enregistré un maximum de 44,3 degrés Celsius. Pas besoin de vous dire qu’il faut adapter notre horaire à cette température! Mais ce n’est pas cette chaleur intense qui nous arrêtera, nous sommes toujours prêts à épauler ceux qui en ont besoin. Il arrive souvent qu’en pleine nuit nous ayons des missions de tir, ce qui réveille en sursaut la majorité de la base de patrouille sur laquelle on vit. Notre travail est très plaisant et valorisant, sachant que chaque obus qu’on tire vient en aide aux membres de la coalition qui sont sur le terrain. Notre travail est très apprécié des fantassins lorsqu’ils sont sous feu ennemi. Jusqu’à maintenant, notre appui a permis de sauver plusieurs vies canadiennes. La batterie R a à son actif un des plus grands nombres d’obus tirés en théâtre, ce qui démontre que notre tir précis et rapide a gagné la confiance du groupement tactique. L’artillerie porte fièrement ses couleurs.

Comme dirait le bombardier-chef Côté avec son bel accent

FO 1-09 M777 in Strong Point Pegassus US Bie R

13Canadian Gunner

du Lac : «Y fa chaud en $%?&!», la troupe B a eu droit à une température bouillonnante en juin. Quant aux opérations, celles-ci ont assurément suivi la même cadence que la météo. C’est presqu’à chaque jour que nous recevons des demandes de mission de tir résultant de contacts divers autour de notre base d’opérations avancée (BOA), plus précisément tôt le matin ou un peu avant l’heure du souper, heures où il fait relativement le moins chaud et encore clair. Preuve que même les insurgés n’apprécient guère la chaleur. Ainsi peut-on dire que la BOA entière a souvent eu droit à un beau réveille-matin grâce aux «boum!» constant de nos canons, réveil qui ressemble selon certains à la fin du monde. Heureusement, celle-ci tombe sur d’autres personnes… Étant donné qu’il se trouve à plusieurs kilomètres des troupes amies pour lesquelles il tire, l’artilleur ne verra jamais les effets du projectile de 100 livres, à moins d’être attaché à une équipe d’officiers observateurs avancés (OOA). L’équipe d’OOA est composée uniquement d’artilleurs qui suivent l’infanterie de près dans tous ses déplacements et dont la spécialité est le tir indirect mais aussi l’appui-feu aérien. C’est notamment grâce à leur expertise et à leur sang-froid que les obus d’artillerie tombent au bon endroit, au bon moment.

Alors que le soleil dépasse les montagnes à l’est, une chaude brise d’été souffle du désert avoisinant. Ce matin,

l’air est silencieux et calme, jusqu’à ce que le téléphone sonne trois fois. À ce bruit, des hommes et des femmes surgissent de leur lit et se ruent vers leur poste. Des ordres sont criés et les «dragons» de cinq tonnes (des obusiers M777 de 155 mm) sont rapidement préparés pour appuyer des troupes en situation de combat à 20 kilomètres à l’est.

Pendant l’été 2009, les artilleurs de notre troupe (une partie de la batterie R du Groupement tactique du 2e Bataillon, Royal 22e Régiment [GT 2 R22eR]) utilisaient leurs dragons presque chaque jour. Comme des opérations étaient en cours dans les districts de Panjwayi et de Zhari de la province de Kandahar, nous étions souvent réveillés par la sonnerie des téléphones de campagne transmettant une mission de tir après l’autre en appui à des forces de la coalition et à des civils qui étaient la cible des insurgés. Nous sommes arrivés à notre base de patrouille au début d’avril et nous avons pu profiter d’un premier mois tranquille. Les activités des insurgés ont grandement augmenté à la mi-mai cependant, ce qui a entraîné une accélération du rythme opérationnel qui s’est maintenue tout l’été. Les troupes d’artillerie étaient donc très occupées et il arrivait souvent qu’elles doivent faire feu à moins de 100 mètres des troupes canadiennes en combat et sauver la vie de membres de la coalition. Plusieurs membres de la troupe ont accompagné la compagnie C du GT 2 R22eR dans des patrouilles de sécurité aux alentours de la base de patrouille. Les patrouilles à pied ne sont pas la spécialité de la troupe, mais les participants ont pu vivre des expériences inoubliables et découvrir une nouvelle façon d’appuyer l’infanterie. Bien entendu, nous ne faisions pas feu constamment, alors nous avions du temps pour d’autres activités. En plus de se garder en bonne forme physique et de réaliser des projets de construction qui ont amélioré la position, les membres de la troupe ont mené un programme d’instruction portant sur les compétences militaires de base, comme le maniement d’armes, le tir à la cible et les missions de tir fictif. Nous jouions également au hockey et aux fers à cheval pour obtenir le privilège de cuisiner pour le barbecue hebdomadaire de la troupe. Les élections afghanes à la fin de l’été ont provoqué une autre bataille : la troupe a dû faire feu à l’aide de ses mortiers de 81 mm pour défendre la base de patrouille contre les tirs directs et indirects des insurgés. Pendant cette période, plus de missions de tir ont été menées pour défendre les positions canadiennes et afghanes que pour

appuyer les troupes participant à des opérations d’envergure du groupement tactique. Maintenant que la fin de la période de service approche à grands pas, le moral est bon et les militaires sont heureux du travail qu’ils ont accompli : la base de patrouille a été grandement améliorée et des milliers de munitions ont été tirées à l’appui des opérations. Pour un artilleur, il n’y a rien de plus satisfaisant que de rencontrer des amis qui reviennent de patrouilles sains et saufs, particulièrement quand, il y a quelques heures à peine, ces mêmes amis demandaient, la voix remplie d’émotions, une mission de tir dangereusement rapprochée. Les dragons continueront de cracher leur feu au besoin, et notre troupe se prépare à être remplacée par une nouvelle. Il nous tarde de revoir nos familles et nous les remercions pour leur soutien tout au long de cette période. Il n’y a rien de plus satisfaisant que de rencontrer des amis qui reviennent de patrouilles sains et saufs, particulièrement quand, il y a quelques heures à peine, ces mêmes amis demandaient, la voix remplie d’émotions, une mission de tir dangereusement rapprochée.»

Bdr Brunette : un survivant

Le 1er juin, à la Citadelle de Québec, le bombardier Michel Brunette a reçu la mention élogieuse du Chef d’état-major de l’Armée de terre (CÉMAT) afin de souligner son courage, sa détermination ainsi que son sens inné du devoir. Depuis plusieurs années, le bombardier «Rocky» Brunette se bat contre la terrible maladie qu’est le cancer et malgré cette adversité, il s’est fait un devoir de venir travailler quotidiennement au régiment. Le 1er juin marquait également son départ à la retraite, lui qui, depuis 24 ans, a démontré un dévouement exemplaire et une loyauté indéfectible envers ses collègues de travail ainsi que les Forces canadiennes. Nous lui en sommes très reconnaissants. Rocky, tu as quitté ton milieu de travail, mais pas nos pensées. Bonne chance et bonne retraite!

Sur la photo, le bombardier Brunette est entouré du brigadier-général Guy Laroche, commandant du SQFT/FOI(E), à gauche,

et du lieutenant-général Andrew Leslie, CÉMAT.

Déploiement du CCFA Régimentaire pour appuyer la FO 6-09

En novembre 5e RALC a déployé le CCFA Régimentaire de 30 personnes pour appuyer le QG de la FO 6-09. Sous le commandement du lieutenant-colonel Marc Fortier, ce CCFA assure la coordination de toutes les ressources de tir disponible en Afghanistan. Le CCFA contrôle le tir de nos obusiers, ainsi que ceux des Américains dans notre zone d’opérations, les ressources d’Appui aérien ainsi que les hélicoptères d’attaques.

Préparation de la FO 3-10

Malgré que le regroupement de la FO 3-10 n’aura pas lieu avant le 6 avril 2010, les éléments de la batterie X appuyé par les ressources d’acquisition d’objectifs et de surveillance de la batterie Q, ont débuté leurs entraînement à l’automne 2009. Sous le commandement du major Vincent Giroux et épaulé par son Sergent-Major de Batterie, l’adjudant-maître Angel, la batterie se prépare pour la FO 3-10 reconnaissant que la FO 3-10 est la dernière désignée pour les opérations de combat en Afghanistan.

À la fin du mois de novembre 2010, la famille régimentaire du 5e RALC a subi une perte avec le décès du bombardier-chef J.A.S. Legendre. Il était un membre apprécié du régiment et hautement estimé par les membres de sa batterie.


4th Air Defence Regiment�e Royal Regiment of Canadian Artillery

Introduction

2009 has been another exceptionally busy year for the Regt. We force generated one Airspace Coordination Centre (ASCC), and two Small Unmanned Aerial Vehicle tps (SUAV) for Task Force Afghanistan. We also successfully fielded the 401 Series ADATS, TCPs, ASCC, Bison vehicles and associated medium capacity radios. We participated in numerous exercises throughout the year, to include providing support to the Royal Canadian Artillery School, conducting pre-deployment training and participating in various Op CONNECTION activities.

128 AD Bty

128 AD Bty deployed troops to Afghanistan with the TUAV and SUAV; while on the home-front providing support and staff to four concurrent RCAS courses. The DP 2 AD Troop Commanders, ADATS DP 1, ADATS Det 2I/C and AD BC’s courses culminating with a final field exercise.

In June, 128 AD Bty also said farewell to Major Jeffrey Schamehorn, their Battery Commander and welcomed Major Erik Andresen, bringing fresh leadership to this long-established sub unit.

July saw us train and deploy a team to the annual Nijmegen march in Holland as well as ADATS to support the Nova Scotia International Air Show. Additionally, 128 Air Defence Battery provided support to the RCAS during the conduct of the ADATS Det 2I/C and DP1 ADATS Gunner courses, both graduating on 23 Oct 09. The recently graduated students then had the opportunity to put their newly acquired skills to the test during the live fire of the ADATS during Ex POTENT KNIGHT 2009 from 2-26 November 2009 in Suffield, Alberta. The exercise resulted in the successful firing of 49 missiles.

Avec l’arrivée du temps des fêtes, les membres de la bie se sont joints aux autres membres du régiment aux activités traditionnelles, soit une journée de sports dans le cadre de la Ste-Barbara. Le tout s’est soldé par la victoire au hockey et au Ballon-balai par les soldats et caporaux contre les officiers et sous-officiers supérieurs. Pour terminer les membres de la bie ont débuté leurs congés bien mérités auprès de leurs familles mettant ainsi fin à une autre année n remplie pour la 128e BAAA.

119 AD Battery

119 AD Bty had several operational lines going simultaneously that included currency training, expeditionary operations for JTF(A) ASCCs, domestic operations such as Op PODIUM, and support to Regimental, LFAA and national level training as well.

Winter started off with a bang as the 5 CMBG ASCC deployed to Fort Bliss, Texas for Ex REFLEX AGUERRIE and two full ASCC crews participated in the Op PODIUM work up exercise SILVER. The Bty then provided ASCC Bison crews to both 36 and 37 CBG for exercises SOUTHBOUND TROOPER and MARITIME RAIDER in Fort Pickett, Virginia. Spring saw 1CMBG ASCC personnel provide airspace coordination expertise on Ex DESERT RAM.

This was followed by more TF 6-09 training on Ex MAPLE GUARDIAN CMTC, along side two ASCC crews deployed to Cold Lake for EX MAPLE FLAG. The summer had 119 AD Bty supporting the AD BC’s course and TF 6-09 training continued with Ex UNIFIED WARRIOR. National level training had ASCC SME’s tasked out as advisors to the students on the AOC exercise, FINAL DRIVE.

Fall ramped up the activity levels as the Bty supplemented 2 RCR’s ASCC on the Combat Team Commander’s course and sent a crew to another FINAL DRIVE exercise. The Bty conducted its own internal training Ex BEGINNER BISON. This exercise culminated in a very successful Joint TDL exercise in Halifax with Cape Scott, the Navy’s data link centre. Op PODIUM training stepped up a level with participation in exercises SPARTAN RINGS and GOLD out on the West Coast. The Bty then switched gears and supported 128 AD Bty on exercise POTENT KNIGHT and provided a crew on the preparatory CPX, Ex INVISIBLE MESSAGE. The year wrapped up with a third tasking to support the AOC’s Ex FINAL DRIVE.

HQ & Svcs Bty

Headquarters and Services Battery provided Combat Service

ADATS firing EX POTENT KNIGHT

15Canadian Gunner

Support to sustain the Regiment throughout the past year. Collectively, the Battery provided 24/7 support to Ex HOMEWARD BOUND, Ex WALKING ARCHER, Ex SUPREME SOLDIER and Ex POTENT KNIGHT. Headquarters and Services Battery was successful in running the implementation of the ADATS upgrade from 400 to the 401 series, and delivered it from the Original Equipment Manufacturer to the cumulative Individual Training exercises in October, and the live-fire exercise in November. Support was provided to Ex DESERT RAM, Ex MAPLE FLAG, Ex MAPLE GUARDIAN, Ex BEGINNER BISON and the SUAV flight camps including Ex SOARING EAGLE. Augmentation to Task Force Afghanistan continued with the provision of Land Communication Information Systems (LCIS), Electrical-Optronic, and Vehicle technicians.

As part of the EME day celebration, which took place on 15 May, Base Gagetown had a number of events which incl. EME Buggy show and shine and time trial races. The Regt won the show and shine in its first year of entering a buggy.

Early in the year, vehicle technician support was provided to DGLEPM at 3 ASG for checklist verification of an amalgamated SEV. Throughout the summer, technicians provided assistance to DGLEPM at Rhienmetall Canada, reviewing all of the ADATS technical publications. Late in the summer, technicians assisted with the Prime Minister’s announcement of the MSVS SEV replacement project in Chatham NB, and LCIS support was provided to the Artillery Symposium in Guelph ON.

RHQ

2009 saw changes to the command structure of the Regiment. On July 9, 2009 The 4th Air Defence Regiment welcomed Lieutenant-Colonel Yvan Audet as its new commanding officer replacing Lieutenant-Colonel Daniel Bouchard who held the post for the previous three years. Present at the signing ceremony was; BGen (ret) Beno, Col Comdt, BGen Neasmith, Comd LFAA, Col Marshall, DArty, and former CO’s Col Lavoie and Col Duhamel. Also present were representatives from the city of Moncton, Riverview and Dieppe.

The Annual Family Day was a full-scale event that had the CFB Gagetown Base Gym transformed into a play area for children with Bouncy Castles. Outside was a Kiddie Commando obstacle course, dunk tank and BBQ. The highlight of the day was the opportunity for kids and adults to shoot a paint ball gun at a brave

soul who was dressed up in protective gear, which raised money for the United Way.

LFAA Nijmegen Team began training on 1 April 2009 and by May 2009 additional marchers from 3 ASG, 4 ESR and 31 Svc Bn completed the team. Prior to deployment to the Netherlands, the team completed a minimum of 500 km, including two 40 km marches on consecutives days.

Several members of the Regiment were rewarded for their hard work and dedication in 2009. Her Excellency the Right Honourable Governor General Michaëlle Jean presented our ETQMS MWO Mooney her M.M.M.; WO Kevin Radey, MBdr Davidson and Bdr Bellows each received the Joint Task Force Commander’s Commendation from BGen Jonathan Vance. The Colonel Commandant’s Commendation and coin were presented to Capt Nick Morris, Capt Hobson and 2Lt Boissonneault.

4 AD Regt participated in several Op CONNECTION activities throughout 2009 in order to foster a positive image of the Regiment. The regiment sent a hockey team to participate in the Atlantic Small Base tournament in Halifax with our team winning the event. 4 AD Regt sent six members to the Army Run held on September 20th in Ottawa and two members entered the Iron Man competition hosted at CFB Petawawa on September 23rd. Included in the Op CONNECTION tasks was “Support the Troops Night” hosted by the Moncton Wildcats LMJHQ hockey team on 09 February, the Remembrance Day parade in the Moncton coliseum on 11 Nov and finally, the Christmas Daddies Telethon where members of the Regt raised money in support underprivileged children in the Maritimes. Upon the presentation of the final cheque, the team had raised a total of $8380.

Conclusion

4th Air Defence Regiment continued to provide an exceptionally high standard of readiness whether it is with the ASCC, ADATS, and SUAV, increasingly provided the necessary support in theatre and in training and has proven more than capable in protecting Canada’s sovereign interests both at home and abroad.

2010 looks very promising for the unit, already members have deployed to the relief mission in Haiti as well as to the security mission in Vancouver for the Olympics. As always the Regt is up for the challenge and endeavours to achieve the highest standards possible.

Ubique!

SUAV Tp in Afghanistan

July 9th Change of Command Signing Ceremony


Royal Canadian Artillery School�e Royal Regiment of Canadian Artillery

It has been another a very busy and extremely rewarding year for the RCAS which saw the graduation of 1197 students, 318 Officers and 879 NCMs. The RCAS also supported the operational needs of the CF wherever and whenever called upon. While working collectively as a Unit to achieve our mission, and supported by the field force where required, the RCAS remains the Centre of Excellence for the Royal Regiment and the Canadian Forces on all things Artillery.

H e a d q u a r t e r s Battery

2009 has proven to be another hectic but rewarding year for Headquarters Battery. HQ Bty’s primary mandate, to provide a d m i n i s t r a t i v e support to all members and students of the RCAS, continued with the full effort of all members of the Bty. In the midst of the all of the support provided to the school, there was a key personnel change during the posting season, with MWO Veronneau handing the BSM’s pace stick over to MWO Fred Frigault.

2009 saw the start of the first Common Assistant Instructor in Gunnery Course, the incorporation of the ADATS 400 Series into training, and updating and standardization of the AD, FAC, Gun Line, OP, and STA courses. The Standards Cell also led CTC in the production of meaningful and constructive End Course Reviews (ECRs) which are instrumental in the validation and assessment of the courses conducted at the RCAS.

Information, Technology and simulation section continued to produce some fantastic electronic training tools enabling more efficient passage of information. These tools constitute the initial step in the implementation of new Distributed Learning opportunities for some courses currently conducted in residency at the RCAS.

Artillery Day was celebrated by members of the RCAS with recognition of achievements and a Birthday cake. In May, HQ Bty celebrated the retirement of Rosemarie Boone, a civilian

assistant within the Bty. Rosemarie retired after 34 years of dedicated and loyal service to the Guns.

67 Depot Battery

Again, the calendar for 67 Depot Bty was inundated with a full compliment of courses to run for 2009, combining this with some significant changes within the structure of the Bty made this year more challenging than the previous. The Bty saw the change in Battery Commanders (BCs) with Major Dave McKeever handing over to Major Wade McHattie, as well as the Battery Sergeant Majors (BSMs), with MWO Mike Lavallee handing the pace stick to MWO Robert Bartlett.

67 Bty is responsible for the introduction of

the candidates to the trade and also more advanced courses within the Artillery. The Bty is comprised of a core strength of 32 personnel, including the BC, BSM, BK and 29 instructors from the Field and AD disciplines, and were stretched thin in 2009 as we were short 4 IGs and 12 AIGs.

Despite the shortages in staff, 67 Bty ran a multitude of crses for NCMs and Officer, Field and Air Defence alike, contributing to the continuous growth of the Royal Regiment. The Fd Tp was able to complete a total of 11 courses ranging from DP 1 NCM, TSM, BSM, DP 1.1 and 1.2 Officer and graduating a total of 156 NCMs and 114 Offrs with some help from exporting one DP1.1 to 1 RCHA and one to 2 RCHA. With the shift of all AD training now falling to the responsibility of 67 Bty, it also saw 11 courses ranging from ADATS Gunner, Det 2 I/C, DP 3 Det Comd, AD TSM, AD TC and AD BC and graduated 180 NCMs and 14 Offrs.

The new Common AIG course was embarked upon, where all 4 streams; Observation Post (OP), Surveillance and Target Acquisition (STA), AD and Fd conduct common modules of the course before breaking off into their specific sub-occupations for further technical and tactical training and

Sgt Phillips is supervising the Adv Optic course: Paris 2009

17Canadian Gunner

development. The Fd IG Course with seven Canadian and one UK student commenced in the summer under the leadership of Maj Dave Grebstad and Capt Howie Nelson.

W BTYW-Bty’s high tempo for 2009

was no different then any other year at the school. To sum it up in a few words, “the year came In like a lion and went out like a lion”.

The year started off with a trip to Fort Sill Oklahoma in February, where W-Bty participated in a small Unit exchange. This was a two week long event that provided ten deserving personnel the opportunity to work and train along side our US allies.

During the month of March, sixteen Bty personnel had the privilege of participating in a forty one kilometre Bataan Death March in the heat and sand of EL Paso Texas, a great experience for those who participated.

In April W-Bty had chosen ten members to travel to Korea as part of a United Nations Honour Guard. The discipline and way of life of the Korean military was extremely impressive to all of those who were present.

June came along quickly, as things always seem to happen at W-Bty, ten members participated in adventure training in New Foundland. Hiking, camping, mountain climbing and kayaking in the Gros Morne National Park kept the members of W-Bty busy during this short trip away from a busy field training season at the school.

In July W-Bty was visited by nine soldiers from Fort Sill Oklahoma as part of the reciprocal SUE. This included a trip to Quebec City and participation in our family day event. All the soldiers from south of the boarder were truly impressed in how they were received and welcomed within the Bty and by how W-Bty conducts business on a day to day basis.

In conclusion W-Bty conducted the normal leave format for August, and hitting the ground hard right up until December 6th with the completion of another busy training year. Of course W Bty could not maintain the tempo of the busy training cycle without the help of reserve units from across Canada; to all those soldiers, a huge Thank You. Training and high tempo supporting such courses such as the Gun Line TSM, Observation Post Detachment Commander, DP 1 NCM and DP1.1, and 1.2 Arty Officer, FOO, IG, and AIG Crses was the norm for W Bty life. The troops earned a well deserved rest during the Christmas break only to return in 2010 to a heavy PCF cycle and of course more field tasking down the road.

45 BTY2009 was an extremely busy, yet productive and rewarding

year for 45 Battery. Over the duration of the year, the Forward Air Controllers (FAC), Fire Support and Surveillance and Target Acquisition (STA) cadre conducted 15 courses in addition to supporting numerous external courses and exercises. Additionally, 45 Battery changed Battery Sergeants Major

when MWO C Wagar was posted to Ottawa and replaced by MWO EP Smith.

In all, 45 Battery saw the graduation of 31 new FACs, 7 FAC supervisors, 14 Forward Observation Officers (FOO), 19 Observation Post Detachment Commanders (OPDC) and many HALO/LCMR operators, STA Technicians and UAV operators. Further highlights from 2009 include the FAC cell’s participation in EXERCICE PATRIOT SEVEN at Ft. Picket, Virginia, USA; the STA cell’s Scan Eagle training in Bingen, Washington, USA; and the Fire Support cell’s conduct of the largest FOO course (16 students) and OPDC course (15 students) in memory.

Maintenance Training Battery - 2009

Throughout 2009, Maintenance Training Battery (Maint Trg Bty) of the RCAS maintained its key role of providing outstanding technical training to Electrical Mechanical Engineer (EME) and Land Communication and Information System (LCIS) soldiers, enabling them to continue to provide outstanding support to all Gunners, as well as other disciplines and trades, during operations both in Canada and overseas.

During this busy year Maint Trg Bty trained more than 90 EME/LCIS soldiers to perform maintenance on ADATS, Muzzle Velocity Indicators (MVI), Advance Optics, and Artillery Meteorological Systems (AMS). In addition, Maint Trg Bty also trained more than 50 EME soldiers to maintain and repair the Remote Weapons Stations (RWS) used on the TLAV and the Nyala, including in-situ training provided for the deploying Task Forces in both Edmonton and Valcartier. 2009 also saw the implementation of three new maintenance courses for the Air Defence Systems Integrator (ADSI), the LAVIII Nanuk RWS and the Lightweight Counter Mortar Radar (LCMR).

Supporting not only EME training, Maint Trg Bty personnel also instructed the DP1 Arty Offr crse, the BC Crse and the AD AIG crse, ensuring that all students gained a thorough understanding of how EME can best support the Artillery on operation and in garrison.

The Cmdt, LCol LaFortune and the RSM, CWO Giroux, present Ms Rosemarie Boone with her Honorary Gunner Plaque upon her retirement after 34 plus years of service to the RCAS and the Guns.


�e Royal Canadian ArtilleryBand

The Royal Canadian Artillery Band had a full schedule in 2009 per-forming throughout western Canada for various military and civilian parades, numerous mess dinners, school concerts and public per-formances. 2009 also included two international tours to the United States and the Netherlands.

In March, the band travelled to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, for Canadian-American Days, a festival honouring the friendship between Canada and the United States. Each spring, Can-Am Days attracts approximately 100,000 Canadians.

The RCA Band performed for the reopening of Calgary’s newly expanded and renovated Military Museum in June. On this occasion, The RCA Band had the honour of performing for Her Royal Highness Sophie, Countess of Wessex. The RCA Band returned to Calgary in July to lead a 100-man guard from the Lord Strathcona’s Horse (Royal Canadians) in the Calgary Stampede Parade. Over 350,000 on-route spectators attended the parade. The RCA Band was augmented by members of the Loyal Edmonton Regiment Band and the King’s Own Calgary Regiment Band. This tour also included two performances at Spruce Meadows for their North American Tournament.

Later in July, The RCA Band accompanied a contingent of 220 Ca-nadian Forces personnel to the Netherlands for Op Nijmegen. The Nijmegen Marches (or Vierdaagse) is the largest marching event in the world. The RCA Band’s Commanding Officer, Capt Dave Shaw, marched with the Canadian contingent, while the remainder of the band, led by MWO Brian Coughlan, performed for marchers at various points along the route.

After completing his first 90 km of the march, Capt Shaw joined The RCA Band for a high energy Big Band performance in Grave. An enthusiastic Dutch audience appreciated the CO’s desire to lead the band rather than rest his weary feet. Many accompanying festivities and concerts took place during the week of the Marches. The RCA Band, along with bands from the United Kingdom, Netherlands, Ger-many, Denmark, Sweden, and Switzerland, performed many concerts in and around Nijmegen for over 1 million spectators present for the Marches. The RCA Band led the entire Canadian contingent in the “Via Gladiola” March, the final 5 km of the March into Nijmegen. Thousands of spectators lined the streets of the town, enthusiastically cheering on the Canadians as they marched past displaying their hard-earned Nijmegen medals. Capt Shaw said he felt privileged to participate in Op Nijmegen 2009 as an independent marcher. The opportunity to march with Canadians was a tremendous experience. Marching up to the Heumensoord start point to the skirl of our contingent pipers, and leaving the camp to the sounds of The RCA Band, stirred in me a patriotic response I had not felt in some time. To be on the other side of the music was both interesting and pleasing. The appreciation of the Dutch people for the wartime liberation of their homeland by Canadian service personnel remains strongly expressed to this day in Holland. Having represented my nation many times in Europe, this heartfelt

gratitude was familiar to me, but nowhere in my experience was this sentiment stronger than in Nijmegen during The 4 Day Marches. The RCA Band is proud to have taken part in Op Nijmegen and to have supported the Canadian Contingent of 2009.”

At the end of August, members of The RCA Band travelled to Mount

Robson, British Columbia to participate in a four-day Adventure Train-ing excursion to Berg Lake. The group led by Sgt Len Winsor and Capt Bob Ridgeway, a friend of the band and former SAR Tech, spent their first night at Kinney Lake about 14 km from the trail head, then continued on to Berg Lake the next morning. On the third day some members embarked on a breathtaking 16 km hike through the Snow-bird Pass, while others chose smaller excursions. In total the group hiked approximately 70 km with an elevation gain of 1500 m. In Octo-ber, The RCA Band travelled to Winnipeg for the 2009 Manitoba Mili-tary Tattoo.

At the end of November, The RCA Band helped raise over $6000 for Make-A-Wish Northern Alberta at its fourth annual Christmas Con-cert at the Winspear Centre in Edmonton. This concert was the most well-attended to date with almost 1200 people in the audience to enjoy a diverse program that featured the Richard Eaton Singers, an array of special guests and Master of Ceremonies, CBC radio host Peter Brown. While Christmas was at the heart of this year’s concert, the RCA Band wanted to pay special tribute to our troops who are serv-ing or have served in Afghanistan. This tribute included a stirring per-formance by Winnipeg Military Policeman MCpl Elton Adams. MCpl Adams sang his original composition “What a Soldier Left Behind,” with the RCA Band backing him up in a special arrangement by the RCA Band’s own Sgt Martin Walters.

In further tribute to our troops, The RCA Band performed an emo-tional “Act of Remembrance” to honour our fallen in Afghanistan. This consisted of a video montage of photographs of the Canadian soldiers who have given their lives for our country. These images were shown in tandem with a fitting musical sequence that included John Williams’ “Hymn to the Fallen”, the Scottish lament “Hector the Hero” for pipes and band, and the traditional Last Post.

The afternoon was capped off by a special arrangement of the Christ-mas favourite, “Sleigh Ride”, featuring four of the audience’s most im-portant VIPs (Very Important Percussionists): BGen Mike Jorgensen, Commander LFWA, CWO Gord Morrison, LFWA Sergeant Major, Col Charles Lamarre, Commander 1 ASG and CWO Paddy Earles, 1 ASG Sergeant Major. The four VIPs were in fine form, pounding on a bass drum, gong, cymbals and a specially designed 7-foot-tall slap stick.

2009 marked a significant change in leadership for The RCA Band,

with Band Sergeant Major Master Warrant Officer Pierre Cayer re-placed by Master Warrant Officer Brian Coughlan. This unit looks for-ward to supporting the Canadian Forces and representing The Army of the West throughout Canada and abroad.

19Canadian Gunner

2nd Field Artillery Regiment�e Royal Regiment of Canadian Artillery

Le 2nd Field Regiment a connu une année d’entraînement ex-trêmement mouvementée en 2009-2010 du aux multiples exercices et opérations dont l’unité a participé.

En premier lieu, dix membres du Régiment sont maintenant de re-tour de mission d’Afghanistan avec la Roto 7 de cet automne. Parmi eux, le lieutenant Kairns, qui a travaillé comme commandant de troupe de reconnaissance et d’acquisition d’objectifs et officier dans le Centre de coordination et contrôle du feu d’appui. Il décrit sa mission comme une expérience inoubliable qui lui a permit d’apprendre énormément. Deux adjudants de l’unité ont aussi été déployés en Afghanistan. L’adjudant Fortin a occupé la position d’adjudant technicien de poste de commandement de batterie. Il s’est particulièrement démarqué dans l’implantation du système Microlite qui a permit de renforcer les capacités opérationnelles de sa batterie. Aussi, l’adjudant Molough-ney a agit en tant que sergent-major de compagnie de l’équipe d’observation de mentorat et de liaison. L’adjudant Moloughney s’est imposé en tant que meneur et instructeur de haut niveau pour l’Armée Nationale Afghane. Nous avons eu aussi le bombardier-chef Laporte qui a occupé la position de sergent de re-connaissance. Il a tellement apprécié son expérience qu’il a transféré avec la Force régulière comme officier au 5e Régiment d’artillerie de campagne à Valcartier. Notre Bombardier Winter y a travaillé comme tech-nicien au poste de commande. D’autres ont agi comme servants de pièce sur les M777, en l’occurrence les bombardiers Gagné-Michaud, Gagnon et Depas. Le Caporal Kaddah, qui en était à sa deuxième affecta-tion en Afghanistan, a travaillé aux finances de l’ESN pour l’achat de matériel. Finale-ment, le Bombardier Didone a agi comme technicien de chargement pour les charges d’hélicoptères avec l’ESN. Présentement, un membre de l’unité, le Capitaine Larocque est déployé au sein du QG de la FIAS en tant qu’officier d’état major. De plus, nous avons une demi-douzaine de membres qui sont volontaires pour la prochaine rotation.

Il y a eu beaucoup de changements cette dernière année quant aux postes seniors au sein de l’unité. Le Major Lefebvre, a été nommé au poste de commandant-adjoint de l’unité. Les Major Gratton et Capi-taine Ramacieri ont prit le commandement de la 7e batterie et 50e batterie respectivement.

Une promotion très attendue a été remise à l’adjudant St-Hilaire le 10 novembre 2009. Ancien adjudant réserviste, il s’est ré enrôlé au 2nd Field Regiment en 2005 au rang de bombardier. Après plusieurs procédures administratives, il fut promu sergent en 2007 puis adju-dant en novembre dernier. L’adjudant St-Hilaire occupe le poste de sergent-major de la troupe B.

Le commandant du 2nd Field Regiment a remit plusieurs mentions du commandant cette année. Au printemps 2009, le Bdrc Afonso a reçu une mention du commandant pour son excellent travail comme interprète lors de la 10e Conférence sur les armées d’Amérique. Une mention a aussi été remise à l’adjudant Gagnon, notre adjudant des opérations, pour son dévouement envers l’unité. Lors du dîner la troupe le 19 décembre 2009, le commandant a tenu à souligner les ef-forts de l’adjudant-chef retraité Gilles Aubé, ancien SMR de l’unité pour ses efforts quant à la préservation de notre histoire et notre patrimoine au moyen de la 3e Batterie d’artillerie moyenne et son implication avec le corps de cadets 2719. Les adjudants Fortin et Moloughney ont reçu des mentions du commandant pour leur rendement hors-pair lors de la Roto 7 en Afghanistan.

Le 2nd Field Regiment a conduit 2 exercices de tir réel cette an-née et plusieurs exercices à sec. Le Régiment a aussi participé aux

exercices du Groupe Bataillon Territorial (GBT) en préparation à l’Op PODIUM pour les Olympiques de 2010 à Vancouver. Le Régiment a effectué un tir du Salut historique lors du la parade du jour du souvenir en tirant pour la première fois sur le campus de l’Université McGill. Ce fut tout un spectacle tant pour les civils que pour les militaires qui ne tarissaient pas d’éloges pour nos artilleurs. De plus, depuis le 6 novembre 2009, notre Régiment conduit un cours de Qualification Militaire de Base (QMB). Au total, 16 membres ont été mobilisés afin de combler différents postes au sein du cours dont 3 officiers, 7 sous-officiers supérieurs et 6 membres du rang.

Une année d’entraînement trépidante s’achève donc bientôt alors que l’année prochaine s’annonce tout aussi mouvementée.


3rd Field Artillery Regiment�e Royal Regiment of Canadian Artillery

3rd Field Regiment, RCA (The Loyal Company)3rd Field Regiment continued to focus it’s training in the COE.

The Battery Commander of the Field Battery drew upon the 37 Bde COP and built numerous live fire exercises centered on a battery in DS to notional TF in Afghanistan. These exercises cre-ated a sense of realism and relevancy for the participants and as a result soldiers have taken an increased interest in and a desire to learn and practice force protection in an asymmetrical environment.

Maritime Raider 2009Maritime Raider 09 saw the Regiment returning to the Fort

Pickett VA during the NB March Break. Maritime Raider is the main 37 CBG collective training event that involves operations at the Combat Team level within a Battle Group context. 3rd Field Regiment manned three guns in an Afghanistan-type scenario with 45 personnel from our Saint John and Woodstock Btys and a detachment of 9 soldiers from 1st Field Regiment. The FOOs were attached to dismounted infantry platoons and the gun troop supported infantry operations with live artillery fire integrated into the platoon live fire ranges. Entire villages with actors were designed to give the feeling of being overseas and added to the impact of the training.

Task Force115 Bty saw the safe return of one of last year’s Task Force

members in the summer, and three more returning safely at the end of their tours in October. We have one soldier currently de-ployed on his second tour after starting his training in March and a second soldier now in training to leave in 2010 for his second tour.

Changes of CommandIn September Major Chantal Bérubé assumed command of

115 Bty Saint John relieving Major J.C. Besner who retired this year. In addition, HCol Irving assumed the appointment of Hon-ourary Colonel on November 27th, 2009.

PromotionsCapt Bérubé was promoted to the rank of Maj on Sept 10,

2009 when she assumed command of her first Battery as BC. Sgt Mason was promoted to WO on Oct 22, 2009. WO MacKay and WO Gillingham were both promoted to MWO during the Men’s Appreciation Dinner on Dec 12, 2009.

Awards and DecorationsDuring the Men’s Appreciation Dinner on Dec 12, 2009, hon-

ours and awards were presented to the following: CD Sgt Os-borne, Sgt McLaughlin D., and Bdr Wilson; CD1 WO Mason, and CD2 to Capt Watters. For their exemplary work within the unit this year, Bdr Henry was presented the unit’s Soldier of the

Year award, and the for MBdr Tompkins was awarded the RSM’s Award of Excellence.

Training in 2010With the start of the new calendar year, our focus is in prepar-

ing our soldiers for Winter Warfare and their participation in EX STALWART GOOSE. A section of 14 soldiers from 3 Fd Regt will join other 37 Bde units in this joint exercise with the 5th Ca-nadian Ranger Group in Churchill Falls, Labrador, 27 Feb – 10 Mar 10. This exercise and its lead up will help build the neces-sary skills and abilities for use in Canada’s ever important Artic region during Sovereignty Exercises (SOVEXs) and Sovereignty Operations (SOVOPs) and support the Brigade in confirmation of this capability.

Firing the 105mm C3 Howitzer in Fort Pickett, VA, surrounded by snow the gunners swore followed them from Canada

21Canadian Gunner

5th (British Columbia)Field Artillery Regiment

�e Royal Regiment of Canadian Artillery

It has been a busy year for the gunners of the 5th (BC) Field Regiment. In addition to an ambitious train-ing plan, the regiment has lent its members out to help out in other CF endeavours. Op-eration Podium, the CF contribution to the 2010 Olympics, has been the biggest recip-ient of support from the regiment. 14 soldiers of all ranks have vol-unteered to participate in one of the largest domestic operations in Canadian history. This year, 4 members of the Regiment contin-ued the 5th tradition of providing support for overseas operations by volunteering for Task Force Afghani-stan roto 03/09. The Regiment also has a number of people providing long term contributions to the CF by instructing and mentoring new NCM and Officers in their Basic Military train-ing at NOTC Venture, as well as providing instructors for vari-ous career courses as they arise.

Training for the regiment spanned the array from in-dividual soldier skills, to troop and battery leve

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