the royal alberta united services institute news 2016 january...the royal alberta united services...
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The Royal Alberta United Services Institute
Mewata Armoury—801-11th Street SW Calgary AB T2P 2C4
Founded 1920 RAUSI NEWS Vol. 25-No 1 January -March 2016
Patron
HRH The Duke of York, KG, GCVO, ADC(P), CD
President:
LCol (Ret’d) JJ Martin, CD, PMP [email protected]—
Vice-President
HCol John E. Melbourne, CD [email protected]
Secretary-Treasurer
Sgt (Ret’d) John D. Bertram [email protected]
Past-President Mr. Brent Felix [email protected]
Membership Chairman
Maj (Ret’d) Bruce Henwood, MSM, CD
Honorary Secretary-Treasurer
Maj (Ret’d) Ken Sivertsen, CD [email protected]
Honorary Piper Michael O’Sullivan
Honorary Chaplain
Maj (Ret’d) Lloyd Northcott [email protected]
Honorary Solicitor
2nd Lt (Ret’d) Morris Smeltz, QC [email protected]
Newsletter Editor
Maj (Ret’d) Bruce Henwood, MSM, CD
Honorary Librarian/Archivist
Mr. Norman Leach, Esq.
Honorary Auditor KPMG
(Cont’d on page 2)
PRESIDENT’S REPORT
by LCol (Ret’d) JJ Martin, CD, PMP
Winter is upon us, and we have been extremely lucky to have a mild season up to now. The Happy Hour on 9 Octo-ber saw just over 50 members and guests attend. Our own Rod McLeod had a book signing at the event, and everyone in attend-ance appeared to have a good time – such a good time that we’ve planned another RAUSI Happy Hour for February. More on that elsewhere in the newsletter. In addition, your Board of Directors hosted a whisky tasting and Western line dancing event. HCol John Melbourne coordi-nated speakers’ luncheons on emer-gency response in the oil patch by RAUSI member Greg Stone in October and in November Anne Lindsay, the Curator at the Aerospace Museum, provided an overview of that facility and her work in telling the story of Canadian aviation.
Our mild weather contributed to an-other outstanding participation in Remembrance Day activities. HCol John Melbourne and myself were privileged to talk to the students of Crossing Park School about the im-portance of that date. With approxi-mately 1200 students the Principal and RAUSI member Maj (Ret’d) Mike Black had two separate ceremonies. I know I was impressed with the thoughtfulness, care and respect by all students and staff. RAUSI was repre-sented at many, if not all, ceremonies throughout the City of Calgary. Thanks to all members who under-stand that we can never forget.
Our Annual General Meeting is scheduled for 17 March 2016. Your participation is not only hoped for but needed. You will be electing a new Board of Directors and helping to identify where you want to have the Institute go to in the future. Dr. Bob Bergen tendered his resignation from the Board due to some lingering health issues, and I’d like to thank him for his years of service. Best of luck Bob in your future endeavours. Membership renewals are progressing for 2016. I challenge each of you to bring in a new member to help maintain the health of the organization. Do not forget that there is a Bounty paid for new Ordinary Members brought into the Institute. Bragging rights – I’ve managed to bring in two new members as of this date! We have a Casino scheduled for 19 and 20 June. More information will be forth-coming, but if you can spare the time for a shift please let Janyn know. Many hands will make short work of this event. Remember this is the primary source of funds that enables the Institute to carry out its charitable activities in support of veterans and youth. .
By the time this newsletter is produced we will have had our early bird lunch-eon, and hopefully I’ll have had the chance to offer my personal best wishes for the holiday season
The Commanding Officer of the Mess has informed that the Concessionaire Agree-ment has been staffed to 3 Canadian Di-vision Support Group for approval. This is another step towards a renewal of reg-ular lunch service. We will continue to keep you informed on this item. I am expecting to hear more information on the proposed Battlefield Tour scheduled for 2017 in the upcoming months. The planning committee has been established and will let us know about the ‘way ahead’. (Cont’d on page 2)
RAUSI NEWS Page 2
Directors
Mr. Eric Cameron [email protected]
Mr. Jack Fuchko [email protected]
Capt (Ret’d) Phillip Fisher, CD
[email protected] 403-998-1219
MWO (Ret’d) Al Hudak, CD
LCol (Ret’d) Bill Schultz, CD, MSM [email protected]
LCol (Ret’d) Rick Wright, CD [email protected]
Office Assistant
Mrs. Janyn D. Bertram, [email protected]
Commanding Officer of the Mess
LCol Dave Sweeney, CD
President of the Mess Committee Maj Ryan Palmer
Vice-President of the
Mess Committee Capt John Huh
Lastly, I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again - your willingness to think outside the box is needed to continue to grow the membership. I continue to ask all of the members to do what you can do to help move the Institute forward. Ideas and suggestions are welcome – please forward them to Janyn in the office.
Great spiritual leaders have often been Great Men in their time. Consider Moses, raised by the daughter of Pharaoh, and Sid-dhartha, a Prince in India, The Buddha. By contrast, Jesus seems not to have enjoyed riches or favour in his time. He once said, “The Son of Man has nowhere to lay his head but on a stone.” It seems, sometimes, he slept in the rough, like a home-less person. Christmas is a time we think of the hungry and the
homeless. We give generously, many of us, and we volunteer to serve meals. It is our hope, eventually, to eliminate poverty altogether. In the meantime, it seems that the rich get richer and the poor get poorer, unless by an act of the will, socie-ty reverses this process somewhat. Jesus made the poor a particular focus of his ministry. Pope Francis has declared the well-being of the poor to be his particular concern. There are many people of both social conscience and wealth in our society. Gates and Buffett spring to mind. They have the means and the desire to help. But charity has never been enough. The Church has never been enough. Only the body politic has the clout to reduce poverty to its minimum. And so, inevitably, we come to those dreaded taxes and transfer payments. But is there any better idea? Would Jesus approve?
PRESIDENT’S REPORT (cont’d from page 1)
PADRE’S CORNER by Maj (Ret’d) Lloyd Northcott, CD, B.A., M.A.
The Executive of The Royal Alberta United Services Institute are pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Michael O'Sullivan as the new RAUSI INSTITUTE PIPER. Michael replaces LCol Lynn Moffat, OMM, CD who has retired to British Columbia. We are happy to have Michael join us in this very important position. HCol (Ret’d) John E. Melbourne, CD Vice President
RAUSI Institute Piper
A quick update that the 2015 RAUSI Annual Journal production is progressing on a timely schedule, the messages that we request each year from Our Patron and the Governor General and Commander-in-Chief of Canada, etc. have been sent. The articles for the middle section of our Journal have been requested. If you have any pictures of interest for the Journal, please forward the same to the
office for insertion, please include captions. Thank you in advance to the President, Vice-President, LFTT Chairman, Padre for your anticipated contributions to the Journal.
Report from the Journal Editor by MWO (Ret’d) Allan J. Hudak, CD
RAUSI NEWS Page 3
Vice President’s Report
Fall 2015
It has been a quite active fall starting with the Canadian Armed Forces Snow-bird’s 45th Anniversary in October which is covered by another article in this Newsletter.
I hosted two RAUSI Luncheons, October 23rd where our speaker was Dr. Greg Stone, a RAUSI Member and Govern-mental Affairs for Cenovus, who gave a presentation on interface between the military and the company. He did highlight the plans in place in case of emergencies that may occur. The plan was very effective as the forest fires in the area of the company facilities were severely threatened this past summer. On November 19, we hosted Ms. Anne Lind-say Executive Director of the Calgary Aerospace Museum who gave an excellent presentation on the museum, future plans for expansion of the museum and the importance of maintaining artifacts. We intend to continue these monthly luncheons in the New Year with plans to have LCol Brad Wintrup Commanding Officer of 431 Air Demonstration Squadron, MGen Paul Bury, Director General of Reservists and Cadets, and BGen Wayne Eyre Commander 3 Canadian Division speak over the next several months. Remembrance Week was very active; I carried the RCAF Ensign at the Remembrance Service at McDougall United Church, on behalf of the Air Crew Association on November 8th. On November 10th, accompanied by Sgt (Ret’d) John Bertram, we attended “No Stone Left Alone” held at the Burnsland Cemetery by over 800 Students. There was a Guard of Honour by the Lord Strathcona’s Horse and the Master of Ceremonies was TV Newscaster Gord Gillies. That same afternoon, I had the privilege of speaking to a group of students at Crossing Bank School. We were invit-ed by the School Principal Major (Ret’d) Mike Black, For-mer Principal of Juno Beach Academy. That evening we attended the lighting of the Calgary Tower at a reception held by Valour Canada. We look forward to the New Year and it is hoped that we can establish a closer working relationship with the Calgary Garrison Officers’ Mess, so we can provide interesting mili-tary related events to our members. Season’s Greetings to everyone. HCol (Ret’d) John Melbourne, CD Vice President The Royal Alberta United Services Institute
The Secretary/Treasurer position was reorganized over the past several months with the appointment of Director Sgt (Ret’d) John Bertram as the serving Secretary/Treasurer. First order of business was to organize the financial records so they could be better understood and managed by the Board of Directors. As one could imagine, things are beginning to come together more with the learning curve with assistance from Janyn to learn the Sage 50 program. We are getting quite good at it and tracking the financials is much easier and I can now keep an up to date track of everything that transpires in the office from kit shop to getting a visa imprinter. We are on the move!
RAUSI Secretary/Treasurer Report by Sgt (Ret’d) John D. Bertram
In the last newsletter I tweaked your interest in the Moose Milk Challenge with the results of the 2015 compe-tition. I noted that we expect a new entrant, The Military Museums (TMM) for this year’s competition. In the tenth year of informal competition will we see the Calgary Gar-rison Officers’ Mess defend their victory of 2015. Will RAUSI, HMCS Tecumseh or TMM jump to the top of the list? Will new and interested individuals volunteer to be part of the judging committee, have a Moose Milk and vote for the best product of the New Year? Hopefully all of these questions will be answered on New Years Day – and who knows, we might even have some entries in the Clam Chowder Cup.
Moose Milk Challenge 2016 by LCol (Ret’d) JJ Martin, CD, PMP
The 2015 Bursary Applications have been reviewed and the winning applicants have been notified. The winner of the 2015 Queen Elizabeth II Golden Jubilee Bursary is SLt Grant Novak. The winner of the 2015 Wing Commander Don Freeman Memorial Bursary is Mr. Adam Wennerstrom.
RAUSI Bursay Update by LCol (Ret’d) Rick Wright, CD
Pension Indexing Rate for 2016
The Treasury Board has announced that the increase in indexing to be applied, on January 1, 2015, for the public service, the Canadian Armed Forces, the RCMP and feder-ally appointed judges’ pensions will be 1.3%. For refer-ences purposes, in 2015 the increase was 1.7%.
RAUSI NEWS Page 4
The training and administrative tempo within 41 Canadian Brigade Group (41 CBG) was high in 2015. From weekly parades to weekend unit exercises, from Exercise GOLDEN COYOTE in South Da-kota to Exercise GRIZZLY DEFENDER in Wainwright, and from community relations events such as the Calgary Tower rappel, the Breakfast on the Bridge, the Belgian Royal Visit and over 90 Remem-brance Week speaking engagements, soldiers from across 41 CBG stepped up and met the demands of the job. They have worked hard and achieved much over the last year while balancing family, civilian jobs, school and the challenges of everyday life. Our new Brigade Sergeant-Major, Chief Warrant Officer Brian Talty, and I are extremely proud of their dedication and professionalism.
With the coming of a new year, come new challenges. Looking forward into 2016, 41 CBG will kick-off with Exercise SHARP-ENED SILVERTIP in January and Exercise DOMESTIC RAM II in February. Both exercises will see our Territorial Battle Group (TBG) Headquarters, led by Lieutenant-Colonel Eric Gilson, the Commanding Officer of 41 Signal Regiment, deploy in order to support our provincial partners in response to a domestic emergency, such a wildfire or flooding. The TBG, along with other elements of 41 CBG, will be deploy to South Dakota in June to work with our United States Army Reserve / National Guard counterparts in Exercise GOLDEN COYOTE 2016. 41 CBG's commitment to the exercise has grown from pre-vious years and while still in the planning phase, is bound to be an exciting and challenging training opportunity. In August, our soldiers will work with our flanking brigades, 38 CBG and 39 CBG, on the Divisional Training Event. The holiday season behind us, with our soldiers having taken a well-deserved rest and recharge, we’re ready for another high tempo year are looking forward to these keystone training events, coupled with robust unit training. Fortune Favours the Bold
41 Canadian Brigade Group Update by Colonel John Conrad, CD Commander
The Royal Alberta United Services Institute Annual General Meeting is scheduled for 1900 hrs on Thursday March 17, 2016 at the Calgary Garrison Officers’ Mess. Elections will be held with respect to the following positions on the Board of Directors:
President, Vice-President, and Four Directors from the Ordinary Membership
In accordance with the Bylaws of the Institute, if any member wishes to nominate persons for election to the Board of Directors, nomination papers with the appropriate information must be in the hands of the Honorary Secretary Treasurer before February 16, 2016. As no specific nomination form has been approved by the Board of Directors a letter will therefore suffice, as long as the candidate is an Ordinary Member in good standing of the Institute, has consented to stand for elec-tion and the nomination letter is signed by two members who are Ordinary Members in good standing. If you are interested in nominating someone or running for any of the aforementioned positions please submit the name of the position to which you wish to nominate someone for or you want to run for, with the appropri-ate signatures along with an up to date bio and recent head and shoulders photo of the candidate to the RAUSI Office attention Janyn, the RAUSI Office Assistant at [email protected] no later than February 22, 2016.
RAUSI Annual General Meeting Notice
RAUSI NEWS Page 5
All members are encouraged to join with their fellows for the annual New Years Day Levee on the 1st of January 2016. The following has been taken from Wikipedia. It was in Canada that the leve e became associated with New Year's Day. The fur traders had the tradition of paying their respects to the master of the fort (their government representative) on New Year's Day. This custom was adopted by the governor general and lieutenant governors for their leve es. The first recorded leve e in Canada was held on January 1, 1646, in the Chateau St. Louis by Charles Huault de Montmagny, Governor of New France from 1636 to 1648. In addition to wishing a happy new year to the citizens the governor informed guests of significant events in France as well as the state of affairs within the colony. In turn, the settlers were expected to renew their pledges of allegiance to the Crown. The leve e tradition was continued by British colonial governors in Canada and subsequently by both the governor general and lieutenant governors. It continues to the present day. The leve e was historically a male preserve but during World War II leve es were attended by female officers of the Canadian Armed Forces. Since then leve es have been open to both women and men. Over the years the leve e has become almost solely a Canadian observance. Today, leve es are the receptions (usually, but not necessarily, on New Year's Day) held by the governor general, the lieuten-ant governors of the provinces, the military and others, to mark the start of another year and to provide an opportunity for the public to pay their respects. Today the leve e has evolved from the earlier, more boisterous party into a more sedate and informal one. It is an occasion to call upon representatives of the monarch, military and municipal governments and to exchange New Year's greetings and best wishes for the New Year, to renew old acquaintances and to meet new friends. It is also an opportunity to reflect upon the events of the past year and to welcome the opportunities of the New Year. As has the leve e itself, refreshments served at leve es have undergone changes (both in importance and variety) over the years. In colonial times, when the formalities of the leve e had been completed, guests were treated to wine and cheeses from the homeland. Wines did not travel well during the long ocean voyage to Canada. To make the cloudy and somewhat sour wine more palatable it was heated with alcohol and spices. The concoction came to be known as ''le sang du caribou'' ("reindeer blood"). Under British colonial rule the wine in ''le sang du caribou'' was replaced with whisky (which travelled better). This was then mixed with goat's milk and flavoured with nutmeg and cinnamon to produce an Anglicized version called "moose milk". Today's versions of moose milk, in addition to whisky (or rum) and spices may use a combination of eggnog and ice cream, as well as other alcoholic supplements. The exact recipes used by specific groups may be jealously guarded secrets. In Calgary, the following are the timings for the Leve e: Calgary Garrison Officers’ Mess, Mewata Armoury – 1000 hrs
HMCS Tecumseh, Wardroom – 1100 hrs The Military Museums – 1300 hrs
It is hoped that as many of the membership as possible will support this important link between the military and the civilian community.
New Years Day Levée – 2016
Humour Husband to wife – “Today is a fine day”. Next day he says: “Today is a fine day”. Every morning for a week, he says the same thing – “Today is a fine day”. Finally after a week, the wife asks her husband – since last week, you’ve been saying, “Today is a fine day”. I am fed up. What’s the matter? Husband: Last week when we had an argument, you said, “I going to leave you one fine day.” I was just trying to remind you."
RAUSI NEWS Page 6
DATES IN HISTORY
4 January 1951 – North Korean forces capture Seoul the South Korean Capital 7 January 1941 – 25 RCAF Squadrons will be formed in the UK 7 January 1948 – First flight in Canada of the RCAF Vampire III 8 January 1916 – Allies complete the withdrawal from Gallipoli 11 January 1815 – Sir John A. MacDonald is born in Glasgow, Scotland 12 January 1944 – Allies launch first attack on the German Gustav Line and Monte Casino positions 14 January 1539 – Spain annexes Cuba 17 January 1929 – Popeye makes first appearance, in comic strip "Thimble Theatre" 20 January 2004 – Nearly 2,000 troops from CFB Valcartier head to Afghanistan 30 January 1944 – LGen Simonds is appointed Commander, 2nd Canadian Corps 2 February 1535 – The Argentine city of Buenos Aires is founded 6 February 1836 – HMS Beagle/Charles Darwin reach Tasmania 10 February 1983 – Testing of unarmed air-launched cruise missile testing over Canada agreement signed 12 February 1747 – British forces capitulate after a combine French/Indian force attack at Grand Pre, Nova Scotia 16 February 1815 – Treaty of Ghent signed, ending the War of 1812 20 February 1947 – Lord Mountbatten is appointed as last Viceroy of India 22 February 1951 – First 2nd Bn PPCLI casualties suffered in Korea 23 February 1909 – J.A.D. McCurdy flies the Silver Dart over
Baddeck Bay, NS in the first airplane flight in Canada 24 February 1998 – Elton John knighted 29 February 1972 – South Korea withdraws 11,000 of its 48,000 troops from Vietnam 1 March 2007 – 171 Swiss soldiers inadvertently “invade” Liechtenstein 4 March 2006 – Capt Trevor Greene is attacked from behind
with an axe suffering a very serious head wound, his recov-ery continues
6 March 2002 – 130 combat troops from 2nd Bn PPCLI are sent to Afghanistan
9 March 2006 - Liquid water is discovered on Enceladus, the sixth largest moon of Saturn
12 March 1958 – British Empire Day is renamed "Commonwealth Day" 19 March 1964 – Sergeant Major Walter Leja awarded the George Medal for heroic conduct while dismantling FLQ
bombs in Montreal 21 March 1918 – The entire German Army attacks the British
front between St. Quentin and Arras kicking off the 1918 Spring Offensive
22 March 1945 – The formation of the Canadian Army Pacific Force is authorized 28 March 1961 – The RCAF receive the first CF-104 Starfighters 29 March 1918 – Lord Strathcona’s Horse cavalry charge at Moreuil Wood
From time to time RAUSI is recognized for its contributions
to the local community.
RAUSI RECOGNITION
Last Post Fund Report by Sgt (Ret’d) John D. Bertram I am the Vice President of the Last Post Fund for Alberta and Janyn is the Fund’s Secretary. Recently we traveled to Edmonton for the 1st AGM of the newly formed Alberta Branch that has been resuscitated out of the old ashes of the old Veterans Affairs Canada one that every-one regrets the closure manner. We have rep-resentatives from across the province, so nowhere is left alone.
What we do? If a serving soldier dies we will bury him/her and erect a military headstone free of charge. If a veteran dies and the family cannot afford a funeral we will bury him/her and supply headstone. (A means test however applies) If anyone can find an unmarked grave that is older than 5 years we will supply a new headstone at no charge.
If our services are required or if you just need information, then please call the following phone #1-800-465-7113.
RAUSI NEWS Page 7
The Calgary Garrison Officers’ Mess (CGOM) is look-ing forward to working with The Royal Alberta Unit-ed Services Institute (RAUSI) to co-host a number of events in 2016. Based on a General Mess Meeting that took place on Wednesday, 9 December 2015, the
CGOM membership approved to co-host a minimum of three events on a trial basis. These three events will be the New Year's Levee, a Mothers' Day event, and a Stampede Event. As well, in addition, the CGOM will co-host two Speakers’ Luncheons with RAUSI in the New Year
The new CGOM mess committee includes the following: President of the Mess Committee (PMC) Maj Ryan Palmer, Vice-PMC Capt John Huh, Secretary 2Lt Kelly, Housing Representative Capt Evan Wile, Entertainment 2Lt Sherlock-Hubbard, and Treasurer Capt Mike Antsey. To provide an update regarding the Concessionaire Agreement to hire a caterer for the CGOM kitchen, the draft agreement was staffed to 3 CDSG for review and approval in November. We expect to hear back in the very near future if we have the green light to send out a job posting to find some qualified candidates to fill the position. All members of RAUSI are cordially invited to attend the New Year's Day Levee taking place at CGOM at the Mewata Armoury on Friday, 1 January 2016 to usher in the New Year. Please note that start time is 1000 hrs. From the CGOM Mess Committee and membership, we wish every-one happy holidays. We look forward to working together with RAUSI in the New Year.
MINISTER OF VETERANS AFFARS AND ASSO-CIATE MINISTER OF NATIONAL DEFENCE
MANDATE LETTER *****************************************
Shortly after the last federal election, the Prime Minister of Canada, Justin Trudeau, issued a Mandate Letter to the Honourable Kent Hehr essentially in the military vernacular “ORDERS”. The Mandate letter is exceptional in its open-ness and promises. An excerpt below from the Mandate letter from the Prime Minister to the Honourable Kent Hehr outlines some of these expectations. “Veterans and their families have earned our respect and gratitude. Veterans should not have to fight their own government for the sup-port and compensation they have earned. As Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Min-ister of National Defence, your overarching goal will be to ensure that our government lives up to our sacred obligation to veterans and their families. I expect you to ensure that veterans receive the respect, support, care, and economic opportunities they deserve.” It is highly recommended to read the entire Mandate Letter, it can be found at: http://pm.gc.ca/eng/minister-veterans-affairs-and-associate-minister-national-defence-mandate-letter
Calgary Garrison Officers’ Mess Update by LCol D. Sweeney, CD, CGOM Commanding Officer
Kent Hehr represented the residents of downtown Calgary in the Legislative Assembly of Alberta for more than seven years. Born and raised in Calgary, Kent’s life drastically changed when, just shy of his twenty-second birthday, while riding in a friend’s car, he was hit by a drive-by shooter leaving him paralyzed. The life-altering injury did not quash his ambitions—while still re-learning to use his fingers, Kent studied at the Univer-sity of Calgary, earning his Bachelor of Canadian Studies, followed by his Bachelor of Law in 2001. Kent has practiced law at the prestigious national firm, Fraser Milner Casgrain, and became an active community leader, working with the United Way and heading the Alberta branch of the Canadian Paraplegic Association. In 2008, Kent was named one of the “20 Most Compelling Calgarians to Watch” by the Calgary Herald. Later that year, he won the race to repre-sent Calgary-Buffalo in the Legislative Assembly of Alberta, a seat he successfully defended in 2012. As shadow minister of justice, finance, education and other portfolios, Kent held the government to account while taking an active role in creating legislation for the future of Calgary and Alberta.
Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence The Honourable Kent Hehr
Minister of Veterans Affairs to Speak in Calgary The Honourable Kent Hehr, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence will be speaking to the Canadi-an Club over lunch on 15 January. The fee is $50.00 it can be paid via the Canadian Club web page after 15 December. The web site is found at: http://canadianclubcalgary.ca
RAUSI NEWS Page 8
There was a substantial turn out to the RAUSI Happy Hour on 9 October, with over 50 people attending. There was a good representation of our membership at this event, with new CIC, returning members, current and past serving members of the Canadian Armed Forces. Maj (Ret’d) Bruce Henwood organized the Happy Hour and acted as the Master of Ceremo-nies.
It was the Institute’s first opportunity to welcome a cohort of Cadet Instructor Cadre Officers to RAUSI and the Mess. The President of RAUSI also provided a few welcome words to everyone
The Mess was a happening place! The CIC Officers gather under the direction of SLt(N) Linda Wellwood (centre)
Unique to this Happy Hour, there were a number of door prizes given away. A complimentary ticket to the November Speaker’s Luncheon was won by Mr. Doug Jessen, a complimentary ticket to the Whisky Tasting Event was won by Capt (Ret’d) Roy Jardine, Maj (Ret’d) Linda Wright won the book The Vigil, and a gift bag full of RAUSI swag was won by 2Lt (Ret’d) George Milne.
Janyn, the ever busy and well organized Office Administrator coordinated the booking of the mess and the arrange-ments for the delicious finger food, which was provided by A Splendid Affair. It was very well received, in fact there was very little food left at the end.
The Institute was fortunate to have one of its members Rod McLeod present. Rod is the author of The Vigil and he conducted a book signing during Happy Hour and gave a short presentation on the reason for the book. LCol (Ret’d) Rick Wright provided an update on the 2017 RAUSI Battlefield Tour and more members indicated an interest in this tour.
It was great to see the mess busy and vibrant with everyone mingling and having a good time. As I was the Duty Officer, I was relegated to the front door, but I was able to speak with the members as they left and everyone had positive things to say. Remember, your spouse is invited to all of these events, so don’t leave your better half behind. Based upon the success of this Happy Hour, RAUSI will be doing it again in 2016.
RAUSI Happy Hour by Capt A. Peterson, CD
Rod McLeod busy signing
copies of The Vigil
Capt Arlen Peterson the ever vigilant Duty Officer
RAUSI NEWS Page 9
On Saturday 25 June 2016 I will join 49 others in a hike to the summit of Buller Pass. Concurrent-ly, 25 people will climb to the summit of Mount Buller, led by Laurie Skreslet, in 1982 the first Canadian to summit Mount Everest.
June 2016 marks the 100th Anniversary of the death of Lt.-Col. Herbert Buller who died on 2 June 1916 while leading the PPCLI in action at the Battle of Mount Sorrel in Flanders. The hike and the climb are aimed at: 1. Heightening awareness of the devastating effects of mental health issues on many veterans and their families; and 2. Raising funds that will provide vigorous outdoor, equine, canine and other therapies for those affected by depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Please support this worthwhile cause by: 1. Registering to climb or hike at http://www.calgaryhealthtrust.ca/events/event-list/2016/2016-buller-mountain-
summit/ or 2. Supporting me or another participant with a donation of $25, $50, $100 or more by going to: https://secure.calgaryhealthtrust.ca/events-and-lotteries/community-events/fundraising-pages/buller-mountain?tab=1 and enter-ing Ashton and clicking the search button, or simply by clicking on the search button and selecting a participant to support. Donations made by 31 December 2015 may be used to increase your charitable tax credit on your 2015 income tax return (charitable tax receipts are issued immediately). Details on the event and timings are available on the registration landing page. those wishing to receive an invitation to at-tend the Unveiling and Dedication of the Buller Memorial Interpretive Signage following the climb and hike should send me an email at the address below. We have invited the Honourable Kent Hehr, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minis-ter of National Defence to officiate at 4 p.m. All climbers, hikers, invited guests and volunteers are welcome to stay for the barbecue in the Buller Mountain Day Use Area following the ceremony and to join us for an evening of relaxation later at the Calgary Police Association's Cuff "N' Billie Club in Northeast Calgary. Finally, you can also like the project and follow developments on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/bullermountain/ Sincerely, Barry Ashton [email protected]
PPCLI Foundation – Reaching the Summit for Mental Health and Wellness A Message from MGen (Ret’d) Barry Ashton
We have received over 50 notifications of intent to attend/participate in the RAUSI 2017 Battlefield Tour. Requests for
Quotes have been sent to various Travel Agencies, and we are awaiting replies. We hope to be able to make a decision early
in 2016 and get confirmation, in the form of a down payment, from those who indicated their interest in such a battlefield
tour shortly thereafter. If anyone is interested in joining the tour, it is not too late, please contact Janyn in the Office to have
your name added to the list
RAUSI 2017 BATTLEFIELD TOUR by LCol (Ret’d) Rick Wright, CD
Humour
A bookseller conducting a market survey asked a woman, “Which book has helped you most in your life?” The woman replied, “My husband’s cheque book!!”
RAUSI NEWS Page 10
The 2016 Membership campaign is well underway. Despite the ongoing closure of the Calgary Garrison Officers ’ Mess there is a light at the end of the tunnel! The mess should reopen for regular lunch service in 2016 as many of the bureaucratic hur-dles have now been overcome. Despite this issue, 9 new Ordinary Members have recently joined the Institute, a testament to the value of membership. Membership renewal invoices were sent out in November; if you have not received your notice please contact Janyn in the office. Membership dues are to be paid by the end of January 2016, all members are encouraged to renew to avoid unneces-sary reminders. For 41 CBG members, renewals are automatic, if you have a change of contact information please forward changes to the office. Membership renewals are strong, well over 36% at time of writing this report. This year, members have an option to renew their membership for up to 3 years (till 2018). If members are interested in this option they should contact Janyn. The new Ordinary Member Bounty is still being offered. Bring in a new Ordinary Member and receive a $20 credit that can be applied towards future membership dues or even upcoming events. Additionally, the early bird renewal draw will take place on 18 December 2015 for Ordinary Members, winners will be announced in the April 2016 newsletter. 2016 is going to be a great year, with Speaker’s Luncheons and Happy Hours already booked and several events co-hosted with the Calgary Garrison Officers’ Mess coming up, see the Upcoming Events notice for more information. Renew your membership and be part of one of the oldest organizations in Calgary!
Your 2015 Membership Committee
(L-R) Maj Robert Craddock, Mr. Eric Cameron, Mrs. Janyn Bertram – RAUSI Office Administrator, Maj (Ret’d) Bruce Henwood – Membership Chair-
man, Lt(N) (Ret’d) Johanne Aylett, HCol (Ret’d) John Melbourne – RAUSI Vice President, and LCol (Ret’d) Bill Schultz – LFTT Race Director. Missing LCol (Ret’d) JJ Martin – President RAUSI and Capt Arlen Peterson
Membership Committee Update by Maj (Ret’d) Bruce Henwood, MSM, CD
RAUSI NEWS Page 11
Harjit Singh Sajjan has served Canada and his community as both a soldier and a police officer. He continues his service to Canada as the Mem-ber of Parliament for Vancouver South and as Minister of National Defence.
Harjit is a retired Lieutenant-Colonel in the Cana-dian Armed Forces and a combat veteran. He was deployed to Bos-nia-Herzegovina and served three separate deployments to Kanda-har, Afghanistan. Harjit has received numerous recognitions for his service, including the Meritorious Service Medal for reducing the Taliban’s influence in Kandahar Province. He is also a recipient of the Order of Military Merit, one of the military’s highest recogni-tions. Harjit also served as an Aide-de-Camp to the Lieutenant Gov-ernor of British Columbia.
Harjit was a police officer with the Vancouver Police Department for 11 years. He completed his last assignment as a Detective-Constable with the Gang Crime Unit specializing in organized crime. He proudly tackled gang violence and drug crimes in Vancouver. Harjit is also a human security specialist, and has lectured to a wide audience in both Canada and the United States.
The Honourable Harjit Singh Saggan, MP Interesting Websites
RCN new Auxiliary Oiler Replenishment Ship (AOR) - Asterix http://www.janes.com/article/55006/canada-turns-to-asterix-for-stop-gap-at-sea-support
Ministry of Defence of the Russian Federation http://eng.mil.ru/en/index.htm
The Textron TAPV (Tactical Armoured Patrol Vehi-cle) is an armoured car currently in development for the Canadian Army https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Textron_Tactical_Armoured_Patrol_Vehicle
431 Air Demonstration Squadron – The Snowbirds http://www.rcaf-arc.forces.gc.ca/en/snowbirds/index.page
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police http://www.rcmp.gc.ca/en
Veterans Affairs Canada Medals and Decorations Frequently Asked Questions http://www.veterans.gc.ca/eng/help/faq/medals-decorations
British Army Training Unit Suffield (BATUS) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/
RAUSI NEWS Page 12
Wainwright, Alberta — Hosted by the Canadian Manoeuvre Training Centre (CMTC) from November 13 to 24, CPC 2015 provided an opportunity for Regular and Reserve Force soldiers from across Canada to competitively practice patrolling in an infantry reconnaissance patrol format. For the first time in the history of this event, Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States of America fielded teams.
Whether taking part in Jungle warfare training in Malaysia, or patrolling in a Canadian prairie winter as part of the 3rd annual Canadian Patrol Concentration, members of the Royal Australian Regiment’s (RAR’s) 3rd Battalion demonstrate that they are versatile, agile and ready to fight.
“We spent four weeks running the team through a tough training program in order to get our soldiers ready for this com-petition,” said Lieutenant Andrew Barlow of the 3rd Battalion, RAR. “We focused on honing basic infantry skills, spent a lot of time marching with heavy loads and did some specialized training with experts in mountainous terrain and cold-weather.”
“The Canadian Patrol Concentration is a realistic training scenario and a testament to the Canadian Army’s resilience and fortitude,” said Lieutenant-General Marquis Hainse, Commander Canadian Army. “International participation underscores the value of this type of training and demonstrates the strong ties between our allies and the Canadian Army. I am con-vinced that participants found the concentration both challenging and rewarding.”
Thirty-one patrols, consisting of eight members each, were required to travel on foot more than 35 kilometres in inclem-ent weather and varied terrain to gather information on an active enemy, played by Canadian Army soldiers. As the pa-trols made their way through their mission, how the scenario unfolded depended on how each team conducted itself and how its members responded to challenges placed before them.
“Not long before we came to Wainwright, we were training in 35 degree heat,” said Lieutenant Barlow. “Some of the team had just finished up three months of jungle warfare training in Malaysia, so training for a Canadian winter was a bit chal-lenging.”
Five of this year’s Australian team members have been identified for leadership positions when they return home. They will share their experiences with their peers to ultimately help improve patrolling within the RAR.
Located in Wainwright, Alberta, CMTC facilitates the design and execution of immersive collective training opportunities for the Canadian Army and the Canadian Armed Forces. This training provides a realistic and challenging full-spectrum, contemporary operating environment, which enables learning and confirmation for designated high readiness forces.
By Captain Graham Kallos, Canadian Manoeuvre Training Centre Public Affairs
Canadian Patrol Concentration 2015 includes international teams for first time
Australian Soldiers confirm their zero before going "live" during the Canadian Patrol Concentration (CPC) in Wain-wright, Alberta, November 16, 2015. Image by: Corporal Jay Ekin Wainwright Garrison Imaging
Australian Soldiers conduct a "dry run" of a withdrawal under contact prior to conducting live fire drills during the Canadian Patrol Concentration (CPC) in Wainwright, Alberta, November 16, 2015. Image by: Corporal Jay Ekin Wainwright Garrison Imaging
Humour Someone asked an old man: “Even after 70 years, you still call your wife – Darling, Honey, Luv. What’s the secret? Old man: I forgot her name and I’m scared to ask her.
RAUSI NEWS Page 13
LOOPS FOR THE TROOPS (LFTT) was founded by Michael Hornburg in memory of his son Corporal Nathan Hornburg, Lord Strathcona's Horse (Royal Canadians) and King's Own Calgary Regiment, who was killed in action on 24 September 2007, while serving with the Canadian Armed Forces in Kandahar, Afghanistan. Nathan was born on Father’s Day.
Since the first run in June 2008, LFTT has grown to honour the sacrifices of all the men and women who have served, and continue to serve, at home and abroad, in the name of freedom. This includes past and present members of the Canadian Armed Forces, as well as First Responders from Calgary Police Service (CPS), RCMP, Firefighters, EMS and Peace Officers across the nation.
Loops for the Troops (LFTT) 2016 is sponsored by the R.A.U.S.I. Foundation and will be held on Fathers ’ Day 19 June 2016 at 09:00 at parking lots E and F in North Glenmore Park. LFTT 2016 will be a 10K run/walk, a 5K run/walk and a 2km walk either individually or as a team (minimum 4 members). Opening ceremonies will begin at 9 a.m., followed by the singing of our national anthem and the recitation of the “Loops for the Troops Runners Prayer” by the Royal Alberta United Services Institute Chaplain (Major (Ret’d) Lloyd Northcott). Various dignities will be in attendance from the National, Provincial and Municipal levels. There will also be a static military display provided by the Lord Strathcona ’s Horse (Royal Canadians) and 41 CBG as well as Calgary Police Service, Calgary Fire Department, other First Responders and charitable associations who support the fallen, injured, veterans and their families. You can register to participate in the event or exer-cise the options to make a donation to the event or to sponsor a participant. For more information on the event we invite you to visit our web site at www.rausi.ca, www.events.runningroom.com or at www.loopsforthetroops.ca.
The R.A.U.S.I. Foundation is operated by a Board of Directors which raises funds through activities such as the ‘Loops for the Troops Run’, bequests, donations in lieu of flowers, and gifts from organizations. Each year we plan to raise $60,000.00 to support our various requests, and to develop an Endowment Fund to ensure the long term viability of our aims.
Funds raised will be disbursed by The R.A.U.S.I Foundation, a registered charity, to the local community and may include the following:
The Military Family Resource Centre,
The Royal Canadian Legion Poppy Fund and Veterans’ Food Bank,
The Peacekeeper Park Wall of Honour,
The Calgary Police Service Benevolent Fund,
Friends of the Colonel Belcher Veterans Hospital Society,
The Military Museums to support education programs for students,
Army, Navy and Air Force Cadet Organizations,
Post-Secondary Scholarship Bursaries for Cadets,
Glenrose Rehabilitation Hospital to support the rehabilitation of wounded soldiers,
The Juno Beach Academy, and University of Calgary Strategic Studies Department.
For more information on the event we invite you to visit our web site at www.rausi.ca, www.events.runningroom.com or at www.loopsforthetroops.ca
We are looking for individuals who are interested in volunteering to be the Race Director, Deputy Race Director or Volunteer Coordinator for LFTT 2017. The plan is for the individuals who currently hold these positions would involve and mentor the new volunteers through the LFTT 2016 planning process and conduct of the race. Any individual who is interest-ed in one of these positions Please contact LCol (Ret’d) Bill Schultz at 403-454-5534, [email protected] or the RAUSI Office Assistant Janyn Bertram at 403-265-6628, [email protected]
Please mark 19 June 2016 on your calendars so you can attend the next Loops for the Troops walk/run in support of past and present members of the Canadian Armed Forces, as well as First Responders from Calgary Police Service (CPS), RCMP, Firefighters, EMS and Peace Officers across the nation. Remember you do not have to run but you may wish to make a dona-tion or sponsor a runner in support of this very significant charitable event.
LCol (Ret’d) Bill Schultz, CD, MSM RAUSI LFTT Race Director.
LOOPS FOR THE TROOPS 2016
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RAUSI Hosts A Whisky Tasting Evening By Doug Jessen
On October 17, RAUSI hosted a highly successful Whisky Tasting Evening at the Calgary Garrison Officers’ Mess. David Michiels, Scotch Manager and resident Scotch expert was on hand from Willow Park Wines and Spirits to lead a very in-formative and entertaining journey through the world of Scotch whisky.
David Michiels, Scotch Manager from
Willow Park Wines and Spirits
The Whiskies
Of the five whiskies sampled, the oldest was an Aberlour, aged at 18 years. The other four included a Balvenie single cask (12 years) first fill – single barrel, Glenlivet (15 years) French Oak reserve, Glenmorangie (12 years) Nectar d’Or (hand se-
Attendees with knowledge of Scotch whisky were pleased and further educated with the information provided by David. Who knew there are summer whiskies and winter whiskies? Among the many pieces of advice he indicated to the group that although Scotch lovers often have a favourite whisky, “you owe it to yourself to always try new ones”.
Even the spouses enjoyed their whiskies, Judy Henwood (L) and Claudia von der Bussche (R)
Doug Jessen the Whisky Auctioneer
Each whisky was accompanied by a food pairing put together by Janyn Bertram who also arranged for salad and meat pies after the formal tasting. Thanks to Janyn for her assistance and all those who made this evening a most enjoyable tasting success. At the end of the evening, the remaining whiskies were auctioned off to the highest bidder, some deals were to be had! The most frequently asked question at the end of the evening was “when is the next whisky tasting?” Rest assured there will be a follow on to this event, perhaps expanding to beer and wine tasting. As usual, if you wish to organize an event such as this, Janyn has a template to follow on how to and there are members willing to lend a hand.
RAUSI NEWS Page 15
SNOWBIRDS 45th ANNIVERSARY
Over the weekend of October 8 to 11, 2015 the Canadian Armed Forces Snowbirds celebrated 45 years of Excellence since it’s formation. 431 Iroquois Squadron was originally formed as a Bomber Squadron on November 4, 1942, since then it has taken on many roles. On April 1, 1978 431 Squadron became the Snowbirds, one of the finest, if not the finest Aerobatic Teams in North America. For 45 years the Team has been flying the CT114 Canadair Tudor.
The Anniversary weekend started off on October 8th with a meet and greet and gave the opportunity for those in attendance to renew old acquaintances. Those in attendance ranged from members from the original team up until today’s team. On the Friday afternoon, the Snowbirds performed their final show of the year in front of a very enthusiastic and critical audience. The team out did themselves and performed an excellent show.
Following the performance, a parade was held where there was a hand over with Major Patrick ”Paco” Gobeil turning the team over after three years as leader to Major Yannick ”Crank” Gregoire. This hand over was followed by the change of Honorary Colonels for 431 Squadron where Michael Potter was succeeded by Les Gould. It should be noted that Les is a strong supporter of the Snowbirds and has not missed an opening show in 35 years. A flying suit hanger party followed the ceremonies, which gave former team members a chance to prove they still fitted into their flying suits, some did but some did not!
On Saturday evening the formal Red and White Ball was held. The Guest speaker was George Miller who was the Orig-inal Team leader 45 years ago when the team was first formed. George spoke about the difficulties in getting approval to form the team and the ways they worked to get the Snowbirds approved. During the dinner there were two new members inducted as Members of the Honorary Snowbird Society, the first being Fern Villeneuve a member of the Canadian Aviation Hall of Fame and former Leader of the Famed RCAF Golden Hawks of the 1950s and 60s. I was the second inductee for 2015, which I am needless to a say, very Honoured. It was an excellent Anniversary and I look forward to the 50th. On October 10 at the Red and White Dinner in Moose Jaw celebrating the 45th Anniversary of the Canadian Forces Snow-birds Honorary Colonel John Melbourne RAUSI Vice President was appointed as an Honorary Snowbird. (L-R) CWO Alan Blackeley, 431 Squadron CW0; LCol Brad Wintrop, 431 Squadron CO; LCol (Ret’d) Dan Dempsey, former Snowbird Team Leader; HCol (Ret’d) John Melbourne; Maj Yannick Gregoire, incoming Snowbird Team Leader, and Maj Patrick Gobeil, out-going Snowbird Team Leader.
Sic Iter ad Astra Honorary Colonel (Emeritus) John Melbourne, CD
Vice President The Royal Alberta United Services Institute
(L-R) Snowbird 11 Capt Regan “Sticky” Wickett, Snowbird 5 Capt Matthew “Hitman” Hart, Honorary Snowbird HCol John “Blue” Melbourne, Snowbird 1 Team Lead, Maj Yan-nick “Crank” Gregoire, Commanding Officer 431 Air Demonstration Squadron LCol Damon “Squid” Wintrup, and Snowbird 8 Capt Shamus “Carney” Allen
RAUSI NEWS Page 16
VALOUR CANADA PREMIERE “FORGOTTEN FALLEN” DOCUMENTARY by Thomas Leppard, B.A., M.A. President VALOUR CANADA
What common do Pte Thomas Riley, Major Talbot Papineau, Matron Margaret Fraser and LCpl John Shiwak share? If you guessed that they were among the 66,000 lost dur-ing the First World War, you have the answer half correct. The other half is that they represent the 19665 Canadians who fell in that long ago war have no known grave;
nearly one in three. Staggering! Valour Canada, thanks to a significant grant from the Department of Canadian Heritage and private contributions, brought to the screen the untold story of Canada’s forgotten fallen. The documentary was premiered in Ottawa November 3rd at the Canadian War Museum and November 5th at Calgary’s Glenbow Museum. Shaw TV broadcast it in 40 markets from Ontario to BC on November 8th and 11th. Response has been very positive and can be viewed at www.valourcanada.ca. The documentary tells the story of the four Canadians mentioned above. Thomas Riley was born in Calgary to a wealthy Ranching family who homesteaded on the north bank of the Bow River in the 1890s. Thomas enlisted at 18 and joined the 1st Canadian Mounted Rifles. He was killed at Passchendaele October 26th 1918. Post war, the Riley’s erected an ornamental cross over his grave but when his remains were moved to a Commonwealth cemetery in 1922, it was discovered the body in the grave was not Thomas. Five years after his death, the Riley family lived with the new horror that their oldest son’s final resting place was unknown. The Riley’s grief is still palatable today. Thomas is remembered on the Menin Gate, Ypres Bel-gium along with 6900 Canadians lost in the Ypres salient with no grave. Talbot Papineau, was Oxford educated, fluently bilingual, handsome and popular among the elite of Montreal society, espe-cially les femmes. He enlisted in the PPCLI when the war broke out and was commissioned a Lieutenant. Decorated for brav-ery, he was seriously wounded, promoted to Captain and given a desk job. During this time his political star was rising in the Liberal party and whispered he could be the next Laurier. He engaged in a very public debate in the newspapers with his cousin, Henry Bourassa, editor of the anti-conscription newspaper “Le Devoir” advocating a pro-Canadian stance. Papineau decided to rejoin the Patricias on the eve of Passchendaele and was given command of a company. He was a popular and ca-pable combat officer. The Patricias attacked Bellevue Spur on the morning of October 30. They took their objective but suf-fered 365 casualties including Papineau who was cut in two by an artillery shell. His legs were identified owing to the fact he wore his putties in reverse. After the war, no trace of his remains were found. Major Talbot Papineau is also remembered on the Menin Gate. He is the first Patricia name listed of the hundreds from that storied regiment who have no known grave . Over 40 Canadian nursing sisters were lost in the Great War, 14 during one tragic night. Margaret Fraser was one of them. The daughter of the Lt Governor of Nova Scotia she had served at the front from 1915. In early 1918 she joined the staff of the hospital ship Llandovery Castle as the Matron(commander) of 14 nursing sisters. By that point in the war, the Canadian Army operated 5 hospital ships repatriating the wounded. The Castle carried 600 patients and a crew of 234 including 100 medical personnel, all Canadian. On June 27, the Castle was returning to England when it was deliberately torpedoed by U-86 off the coast of Ireland. The ship sank quickly but between 3 to 5 lifeboats was launched and according to an eyewitness all the nursing sisters were in one of the boats. Sadly their boat was dragged into the sinking ship’s whirlpool, with tragic results. None of their bodies were ever found. The tragedy became macabre when the U-boat surfaced and attacked the re-maining lifeboats with machines guns, cannon. One boat escaped with 24 survivors, only two were medical personnel. The U-boat Captain was charged with war crimes but evaded capture and ironically served with the U-boat command in the Sec-ond World War. The nursing sisters are commemorated in Halifax’s Point Pleasant Park. Just a few weeks before Margaret was lost, her younger brother had been killed in action. The war had been a tragic affair for the Fraser family. John Shiwak was an Inuk sniper from Ricolet Bay Labrador. He joined the Newfoundland Regiment shortly after it was wiped at July 1st 1916 at Beaumont Hamel. Popular with the regiment, one officer boasted he was the best sniper in the British Ar-my. He had many notches on his rifle that gave credence to the boast. On November 20th 1917, the Newfoundlanders were in the second wave during the opening stages of the Battle of Cambrai. They were ordered to mop-up the town of Masnieres and advanced. An random artillery shell landed on the regiment killing ten outright, including John Shiwak. His officer wrote that John’s loss was felt deeply by the regiment and that he was sorely missed. Shiwak is commemorated on the Cari-bou monument at Beaumont Hamel along with over 800 Newfoundlanders with no known grave. He was 28. The First World War is Canada’s bloodiest conflict. It is hard for us to imagine the impact such heavy loss had on the young nation; just fifty years old, with a small population of barely 8 million. Canadians built monuments to assuage their grief no-tably the Vimy Monument (1936)and the National cenotaph in Ottawa(1939). One hundred years later, we need to insure that future generations honour and commemorate the sacrifice of so many brave Canadians and find a special place in their hearts and minds to honour the thousands, like Riley, Papineau, Fraser and Shiwak, who were lost without a trace.
RAUSI NEWS Page 17
The year 2015 is coming to an end. It was a busy year packed with events, including the launch of the Air Force Museum of Alberta’s acclaimed Ken and Roma Lett Cold War Exhibit, and a very well attend-ed Remembrance Day Ceremony. We are starting 2016 strong with a special lineup of lecture presen-tations and film screenings. In 2016, TMM is partnering with the Yorkton Film Festival for a special series of documentary film presentations. The screenings will run concurrently with the lecture series and cover the First and
Second World Wars. Topics will include The Battle of Vimy Ridge, Battle of Ortona, Bomber Command, and secret agent training camps to name a few. Please check our website in the coming weeks for a full lecture lineup and screening times, or email [email protected] to sign up for our mailing list. 17 DAYS OF HADES: Battle of Ypres, WWI Thursday, 28 January Doors 6 PM Presentation 7 PM WWI 1915: Germany introduces chlorine gas to break the trench warfare deadlock. This documentary tells the story of Can-ada's 1st volunteers, immortalized by the poem "Flanders Fields" (John McCrae). (Runtime 60 Minutes) FRONT LINES Thursday, 11 February Doors 6 PM Presentation 7 PM This documentary incorporates historical accounts of battles from World War One and Two with modern-day footage of Commonwealth War cemeteries in Northwest Europe while also profiling some of the heroic soldiers buried at each loca-tion. (Runtime 33 minutes) This screening will be preceded by a short animated film “The Trenches.” We would also like to remind you that our current Founders’ Gallery Exhibition closes 17 January, 2016. During the Second World War, Canadian painter and official war artist A.Y. Jackson initiated an innovative project between the National Gallery and the Department of National Defence, allowing artists to support soldiers with art. After the war, these prints became extremely popular within Canada. They were purchased for banks, schools, libraries, post-offices, and many other public buildings in large centres and small villages from coast to coast. Barracks to Banks shows the massive support Canada's best-known artists offered to their troops and the vital role that support played in the for-mation of Canadian national identity.
HUMOUR
A prospective husband in a bookstore:
“Do you have a book called, ‘Husband—the Master of the House’? Sales Girl: “Sir, Fiction and Comics are on the 1st floor”.
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Wife: I wish I were a newspaper so I’d be in your hands all day. Husband: I too wish that you wee a newspaper so I could have a new one every day.
THE MILITARY MUSEUMS UPDATE, by Stephen Magusiak, TMM
RAUSI NEWS Page 18
Ryan Palmer
Vice-President Mess Committee
Capt John Huh
In Memoriam
Capt (Ret’d) Gordon G. COUSINS, CD
Calgary Highlander Cadet Instructor Cadre
On 1st December 2015, in Calgary, AB, age 67
Originally from Mississauga, ON
Wednesday to Friday – Daily Lunches and Bar service suspended for now, Lunch at 264 Legion on Fridays in the interim
From now till 17 January – Barracks to Banks: Canadian Silkscreens for War and Peace Exhibition at the TMM 1 January – New Years Day Levee – 1000 hrs 15 January – Minister of Veterans Affairs to speak at the Canadian Club 1200 hrs 22 January – Speaker’s Luncheon Snowbirds Squadron Commander LCol D. Wintrup 28 January – 17 Days of Hades: Battle of Ypres WWI Presentation at the TMM 31 January – 2016 Membership payment due 5 February – Happy Hour 1630 hrs – 20:00hrs 11 February -Mess Open to all members 19:30-23:30 (Scottish Country Dancing in the Dining-Room) 11 February – Front Lines Presentation at the TMM 18 February -Mess Open to all members 19:30-23:30 (Scottish Country Dancing in the Dining-Room) 19 February – Speaker’s Luncheon MGen P. Bury Director General Reserves and Cadets 25 February - Mess Open to all members 19:30-23:30 (Scottish Country Dancing in the Dining-Room) 27 February – Grand Highland Ball at the Hyatt Regency Hotel 17 March – RAUSI AGM 1900 hrs 8 May – Mother Day’s Brunch 19 June – Loops for the Troops North Glenmore Park 19-20 June – RAUSI Casino 25 June – PPCLI Foundation Buller Mountain Summit 8 July – Stampede Brunch after the Parade
UPCOMING EVENTS