Servir - Vol. 28/No 21 – January 12, 2023

Photo

Photo: courtoisie

Next edition 25 / 01 / 2023 Dealine 16 / 01 / 2023

Saint-Jean Garrison office K-125, PO Box 100 Station bureau-chef Richelain QC J0J 1R0 T. 450-358-7099 ext.6346 servir@forces.gc.ca journalservir.com

PRINT : digital edition only

EDITOR : Col Serge Ménard 2 Cdn Div Support Group Commander

MILITARY ADVISORS :

• Capt Steve Comeau 450-358-7099 ext. 6570 steve.comeau@forces.gc.ca

• Capt Frédéric Thouin 514-252-2777 ext. 4530 frederic.thouin717@forces.gc.ca

• Claude Tourville 514 252-2777 # 4993 claude.tourville@forces.gc.ca

MANAGER : Guylaine Fortin 450-358-7099 ext. 7426 guylaine.fortin@forces.gc.ca

journalist : Yves Bélanger 450-358-7099 ext. 7330 yves.belanger@forces.gc.ca

graphic designer : Mathilde Pouille Advertising, subscription and classified : Bélinda Raîche, 450-358-7099 ext. 6346 • belinda.raiche@forces.gc.ca

Translation : Google ISSN 0384-0417

The articles published in this newspaper are the property of Servir and cannot be published, used or reproduced without the permission of the editor in chief or author.

Publication requests should be sent in Word format by email. The editorin-chief reserves the right to reject, modify or publish any editorial or advertising material.

Servir is an authorized unofficial publication, published bimonthly with permission of the 2nd Canadian Division Support Group Commander. The opinions and points of views expressed are not necessarily those of DND, CAF and CFMWS/NPFs Personnel.

January, 12, 2023

Ice storm: already 25 years

|Yves Bélanger, Servir

Twenty-five years ago, at the same time, part of Quebec, mainly Montérégie, was plunged into darkness due to a severe ice storm. About 3.5 million Quebecers lost power. Some have been affected for more than a month. Canadians were then able to witness the largest peacetime deployment of troops in the country's history. Warrant Officer Éric Perron shares some memories with Servir.

From January 4 to 10, 1998, nearly 100 mm of freezing rain fell, which is twice the annual precipitation for some regions. Following a request from the provincial government, nearly 11,000 CAF members are deployed in Quebec, Ontario and New Brunswick on the fourth day of the crisis. Operation RECUPERATION is thus born.

Among all the CAF members mobilized, we could count on 1,129 reservists from all the units of the 34th Canadian Brigade Group. Their mission was, among other things, to support Hydro-Québec by clearing roads and facilitating access to high-voltage lines. The military also came to support the community by providing logistical support to the accommodation centres and helping the police forces to ensure security during this troubled period.

Proud to have helped the local population

Warrant Officer Éric Perron, of the 34th Service Battalion, remembers this ice storm very well. “I had just arrived in the Montreal area.”

One of his main tasks was to free the electrical wires caught in the ice. “Several pylons had collapsed under the weight of the ice. It was thick and we had to break it to get the material. It was an arduous task that required a lot of time and effort.”

At some point, the CAF member had the idea of attaching the electrical wire to his team's vehicle. “I was taking a swing and pulling the wire. In this way, we managed to break several metres of ice at a time. This allowed us to go six times faster. The idea was taken up by the other teams who were busy with the same task as us.”

WO Perron has good memories of his participation in this operation. “It was nice to see how grateful people were for the work we were doing. It was one of the first times when people could see that the army was not just for defence.”

The ice storm in numbers

• 945 injured

• 35 deaths

• 600,000 people temporarily displaced

• 1.4 million Quebecers without electricity

• Several roads closed

The contribution of the Canadian Armed Forces

• 15 loaned generators

• 11,000 camp beds provided

• More than 200,000 homes visited in 336 affected municipalities

A vibrant Christmas concert

On December 13,

Military families gather for the holidays

Once again this year, the Military Family Resource Centre (MFRC) Christmas Brunch was a great success. The military community gathered in large numbers on Sunday, November 27 at l'Érablière le Sous-Bois in MontSaint-Grégoire to celebrate the holiday season. More than 300 families were present. All the children received a gift from none other than Santa Claus.

Under the direction of Warrant Officer Marc Adolph, the 36 musicians performed the most beautiful holiday tunes with brio. The band is composed of 27 members of the 438 ETAH Band, four members of 438 ETAH, one member of the Regional Cadet Support Unit (East) and four civilian musicians.

R22eR Veterans celebrate Christmas

|Yves LaBarre

On December 2, 77 members of the Veterans Association of the Royal 22e Régiment (R22eR) Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu gathered at the Royal Military College Saint-Jean with their guests for their traditional Christmas dinner, the first since the end of the COVID-19 pandemic.

During his speech, Lieutenant-General (retired) Marc Caron, outgoing honorary colonel of the Regiment, insisted on the importance of the duty and the memory of the Regiment. He also made a retrospective of the highlights of his mandate.

Major-General (retired) Alain Forand, Pierre-Luc Berthiaume, General Manager of the R22eR Museum at the Citadelle, and Captain Martin Dauphinais, Deputy Manager of the Museum, were among the guests.

the 438 Tactical Helicopter Squadron Band was at the Saint-Jean Garrison auditorium to present a Christmas concert to benefit the Chaplains' Food Drive.

Photo: Mcpl Laura Landry - 438 THS

Ronald Gagnon and Jean-Guy Beaulieu. Photo: Christian Jacques.

Photo : MFRC

An exciting year awaits 438 THS

N.D.L.R. Holiday greetings are an opportunity for unit Commanders to thank their troop for the work accomplished during the year. The Commander of 438 Tactical Helicopter Squadron is taking advantage of the New Year to share his enthusiasm for the challenges that 2023 will bring.

Dear Wildcats,

I hope you had a great Holiday Season with your family and friends and that you are coming back strong after this festive period. Let's start this New Year together and share our energy and our efforts to accomplish the new challenges and projects that will arise. You have all been amazing over the past year and I am proud to be your Commander and to be a Wildcat. I observed a good sense of family, cooperation between squadrons and a high level of professionalism and commitment. No matter the challenges, you keep your spirits up and this shows in your workspace.

This spring we will be organizing and delivering an Advanced Tactical Aviation Course, which has not been held since 2017. A change of command will take place during the summer and the Griffon Limited Life Extension (GLLE) project will be implemented by the end of 2023. Each squadron has a role to play and it is the collaboration of all that allows us to shine within the 1st Wing. I would like to thank each squadron for their invaluable contribution and I look forward to seeing what we will accomplish this year, together.

Master Warrant Officer Boilard and I wish you a very happy New Year 2023!

GOING DOWN!

JOIN US TO BECOME PART OF HISTORY!

Lieutenant-Colonel Stéphane St-Onge and Master Warrant Officer Serge Boilard. Photo: 438 THS

WHAT IF YOU BECAME A DENTAL TECHNICIAN?

Are you a military member and thinking of changing occupations?

Are you a civilian and thinking of joining the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF)? The CAF is currently hiring qualified civilian Dental Assistants (with a Level II qualification) to become Dental Technicians, the military occupation equivalent to a civilian Dental Assistant. This occupation offers you many opportunities for professional development.

Within the CAF, Dental Technicians may support dental care delivery in dental detachments (clinical setting), field units (field ambulances or field hospitals), ships, headquarters teams or work within the Canadian Forces Health Services Training Centre in Borden (Ontario). Dental Technicians also have the opportunity to participate in international operations and humanitarian assistance deployments.

Dental Technicians’ tasks are varied and there are many training opportunities, especially when one is selected for deployment. In both Base/Wing and deployment settings, Dental Technicians can expect to work with dental generalists or specialists from different fields such as oral and maxillofacial surgery, prosthodontics, periodontics and advanced general dentistry. Dental Technicians may also be involved with financial administration, leadership roles, second language training, or join the high readiness Canadian

Forces Forensic Odontology Response Team.

This occupation has a direct impact on all CAF members. Dental Technicians support CAF member operational readiness and well-being through the provision of person-partnered care. As the dentistry field is constantly evolving, Dental Technicians belong to teams that focus on offering very high quality care, regardless of place of employment. Needless to say, Dental Technicians feel a great sense of belonging to their organization and mission!

Profile of candidates

Military Dental Technicians must hold a Level II Dental Assisting Diploma from an accredited educational institution, have successfully challenged the National Dental Assistant Examination Board (NDAEB) and possess a current provincial or territorial license.

If you are a military member looking to change occupations and are not a qualified dental assistant, you may be eligible for the Non-Commissioned Member Subsidized Training and Education Plan (NCMSTEP).

If you are a civilian accepted into a dental assistant program at a recognized Canadian college and screen successfully for enrolment in the CAF, you could be eligible for subsidized education under the NCMSTEP.

|Lieutenant (Navy) Sylvain Menant, Administrative Attractions Coordinator, Canadian Forces Health Services Headquarters

Photo: Saint-Jean Garrison Imagery - Archives

NCMSTEP students must also complete the Basic Military Qualification course and, depending on their school schedule, this may be done before or after their dental assisting program. During school, students would receive a full-time salary as well as medical/dental care and vacation benefits. In return, they would commit to working for the CAF for a period of time.

If you are already a Dental Assistant, by joining the CAF, you will enjoy the great benefits that come with a military career including receiving a recruitment allowance.

To apply

For more information, email CFHSAttractionCell-CelluledattractionSSFC@forces.gc.ca.

To obtain details related to the occupation:

Web site

More than 20 years of experience!

Warrant Officer

Valérie Morin is a Dental Technician at 1 Dental UnitDental Detachment Saint-Jean. She has never regretted her choice to practice her profession in the Forces!

WO Morin gained 19 years of experience in the Regular Force and four in the Reserve Force. She vividly remembers the day when, in January 1999, she received her vocational diploma in dental assisting. “A military dentist had been invited to promote the profession. She was hoping to recruit a Dental Assistant to join the Forces. I was convinced the minute I understood that becoming a soldier would completely change my daily routine!” she explains. She understood that the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) would allow her professional goals to be achieved through continuous training and learning and allow physical training while reaping the benefits of teamwork and potential deployment experiences. “There is also self-surpassing when you participate in humanitarian aid missions, and many other things besides!”

WO Morin mentions that all of these development opportunities are an integral part of her development and that the result is a fulfilled professional

career. Throughout her 24 years in the CAF, WO Morin has taken part in a humanitarian mission in the Antilles aboard an American ship and deployed to Iraq. She worked as an attendant in residential and long-term care centres during the COVID-19 pandemic and was a member of the CAF Forensic Odontology Response Team. Outside of work she has also been part of various Canadian Forces Bases’ sports teams.

WO Morin confirms she feels she made the best choice by enlisting and that all the goals/expectations that stood before her were met! As she rose through the ranks, she was able to grow as a leader and become a dental detachment coordinator where she also learned to develop her administrative skills. “I never thought I would be able to succeed at such a high level. I am very proud to be part of the CAF and to be able to say, mission accomplished!”

Warrant Officer Valérie Morin speaks with a young patient during her deployment on Operation CONTINUING PROMISE 2009, in Haiti.

Photo: courtesy

WEST POINT

The most prestigious military academy

|Yves Bélanger, Servir

Each country has institutions for the training of its non-commissioned members and officers. One of the best known is the West Point United States Military Academy. Servir newspaper wanted to learn a little more about this institution, the most important of its kind on the planet.

The West Point United States Military Academy was built in 1778 in New York State. “It was built at the time of the American Revolution,” explains Danic Parenteau, philosophy and political science teacher at CMR SaintJean. He has a real passion for the history of military schools around the world.

While in the 1960s, the American establishment welcomed just over 2,500 cadets. It now trains 4,000 officers annually. “It is today the most prestigious military academy.”

Reserved for the Army

Mr. Parenteau goes on to explain that the training offered at the West Point United States Military Academy is comparable to that at RMC Saint-Jean. “There are a lot of similarities if you think of the four pillars of training (studies, sports, military qualification and bilingualism) as well as the fact that university training is offered there. However, West Point only trains Army officers, while RMC Saint-Jean is a joint institution.”

He points out that in the United States, each element of the armed forces

has its own academy. “On the other hand, West Point has recently begun, in certain cases, to accept naval or air force officers into its ranks. “However, 99% of its students are preparing for a career in the army there.”

West Point's academy is not the only avenue for recruiting officers into the US Army. “But it enjoys a certain prestige and has over time trained several generals and war heroes.”

Several American personalities from the military and political world, such as Dwight D. Eisenhower (34th President of the United States), General Douglas MacArthur, General Georges S. Patton, and General Joseph Stilwell graduated from this academy.

After World War II, West Point was treated to a radical overhaul of its curriculum to accommodate significant developments in science and technology. The establishment has also adapted its training to understand other cultures around the world.

Since then, the structure of the academy's programs has been significantly modified to allow cadets to specialize in several fields of study, ranging from pure sciences to humanities.

It was in 1976 that West Point opened its doors to women. Four years later, 62 female officers have graduated.

CMRs must become military academies again

According to Danic Parenteau, Associate Professor of philosophy and political science at the Royal Military College SaintJean (RMC Saint-Jean), and Michel Maisonneuve, former Academic Director of the establishment, the CMRs should find their true vocation, to be military academies. They published an article on the subject in the recent edition of the Canadian Defence Academy Institute's Vimy Papers.

The two men believe that it is time to undertake a real reform in the program offered in the two royal military colleges located in SaintJean-sur-Richelieu and Kingston. “We believe that this reform will only be possible through a thorough reflection on the real raison d'être of these institutions.” Mr. Parenteau adds that the main mission of RMCs is to train officers ready to serve in the Canadian Armed Forces.

Both authors argue that getting back to basics for Canadian military colleges means refocusing these institutions on their core mission. To do this, they propose adding a pillar to the four that already exist (academic, military, bilingualism and sport). “The military pillar could be split in two. It would deepen the qualities of leadership and military ethical behaviour.”

Read the article

Photo: RMC Saint-Jean

Photos: RMC Saint-Jean

Photos 1 and 2: The Protestant Cadet Chapel.

Photo 3: Michie Stadium of the West Point United States Military Academy Photos: RMC Saint-Jean

Almost 44 years with the Fusiliers de Sherbrooke

also had the opportunity to become Sergeant Major of the 35th Canadian Brigade Group.” In 2013, Capt Lefebvre was made a member of the Order of Military Merit.

Civilian career

An electrician by training, Capt Lefebvre has worked at the Domtar plant for 36 years. “Today I hold the position of Deputy Superintendent. I am also an industrial firefighter.”

Unfortunately, the Officer never had the chance to experience a deployment abroad. “I would have liked that, but my employer was not open to let me leave my post for several months to go and do my military work. However, I have no regrets. If life made it happen like that, it was probably for the best.”

For now, he wants to continue his civilian career. “I don't want to stop everything at once. So I hope to be able to work another 18 months or so to quietly get used to my new reality.”

Teamwork

Yves Bélanger, Servir

Recently, Captain Pierre Lefebvre chosed to retire from military life. The 60-year-old Officer had a busy career during his 43 years of service with the Reserve unit.

It was in 1979 that Capt Lefebvre decided to enlist. “My brother-in-law at the time was a member of the Fusiliers de Sherbrooke. He often told me about his adventures and that made me want to experiment military life.”

He says he never regretted his choice. “For me, the army was a great experience that brought me a lot by allowing me to take up several challenges.” Passionate about rifle shooting, he really found what he was looking for with the Fusiliers de Sherbrooke. “I was lucky to be a member of the shooting team.”

The Officer says he preferred a career in the Reserve rather than in the Regular Force. “It was more in line with what I was looking for and allowed me to easily combine my military life with my civilian life.”

For him, the Fusiliers de Sherbrooke represent a second family. “I'm so grateful to have been able to be around such professional people in this unit.” He adds that the army has been an excellent training for him, especially at the leadership level. “I have to say that corporate executives who hire reservists are dealing with top quality employees.”

Within the Fusiliers, Capt Lefebvre had the chance to rub shoulders with several mentors. “I dare not name them for fear of forgetting some. However, I can admit that I was lucky to work with this team.”

The Officer rose one by one through the ranks over the years within the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF). Among other things, he had the chance to become the Regimental Sergeant Major of the Fusiliers de Sherbrooke. “I

The CAF member mentions that if he had the chance to pursue two careers at the same time, it is largely, thanks to his wife Jeanne Martel, with whom he had four children. “Without her, I would never have been able to experience this and I am extremely grateful to her. I think we can really say that we are both a very good team”, he concludes.

Captain Pierre Lefebvre with his wife, Jeanne Martel.

Photo : courtesy

In 2012, during an event held at Base Valcartier, Fusiliers de Sherbrooke Regimental Sergeant Major Pierre Lefebvre (right), who was Chief Warrant Officer at the time, poses with the unit Commander, Lieutenant-Colonel Simon Hallé, and Sergeant Courcy.

Photo : courtesy

CANADIAN RANGERS

A leadership training week

|Yves Bélanger, Servir

From November 29 to December 9, nearly 50 Canadian Rangers from several of the 28 Ranger patrols of the 2nd Canadian Ranger Patrol Group (2 CRPG) were at the Farnham site and the Saint-Jean Garrison to participate in leadership training.

Major Martin Beaulieu, Training Company Commander of the 2 CRPG, explains that this training week is held every two years. “This time, the SaintJean-sur-Richelieu region was chosen to hold the event. Next year, however, we plan to deliver the leadership training in a decentralized manner in each of the three regions of Quebec (Nunavik, James Bay and Lower North Shore) where there are Ranger patrols.”

They were originally expected to have more than 80 participants present in the region. “Bad weather prevented several departures. So, 50 Canadian Rangers were finally able to participate in the training.”

The trainings offered focused on leadership development. “There were basic trainings as well as advanced trainings. The target audience was Ranger and Junior Ranger patrol leaders. Up-and-coming Rangers also took part in this dynamic and challenging professional development.”

Among the training offered were orientation with maps and compasses, another on planning and executing ground search and rescue operations, and team-based scenarios. “Participants were also able to learn how to plan and conduct a helicopter landing strip in an austere environment.”

Promoting healthy habits was also on the agenda. “The goal of this training is to instill in our Rangers good conduct to avoid physical and verbal abuse, know how to identify it and intervene appropriately. This training fulfills an important community resiliency role in addition to fostering a healthy and respectful climate on patrol.”

Another training, meanwhile, was geared toward organizing activities for Junior Rangers (ages 12 to 18). “One of the things we wanted to do was

Troop dinner

teach our Rangers how and where to go about seeking financial support to empower youth to develop traditional skills and Ranger knowledge throughout the year.”

2 CRPG took advantage of the event to host its traditional troop dinner. “The Brigadier General Stéphane Boivin chaired the event and was able to speak with the Rangers about their issues. Their unique role in isolated and remote communities was also highlighted. Our former unit Commander, Colonel Benoit Mainville, also came to speak to the Rangers during a training day to inform them of strategic initiatives on the Rangers' future role and capabilities. Colonel Mainville is now the Director of the Canadian Rangers and works within the Canadian Army Headquarters.”

Professional development

Maj Beaulieu continued by reminding that 2022 marked the 75th anniversary of the Canadian Rangers and that it was important to highlight the professional development of the unit's members. “Our Rangers have been contributing to emergency preparedness and sovereignty protection in remote and isolated areas of the country since their training.”

The Canadian Rangers are part-time reservists in the Canadian Armed Forces. “With their knowledge of the local environment and their ability to move easily through the most challenging areas of the country, they provide a military presence and are ready to be mobilized when needed and authorized.”

With activities in a variety of areas, including ground search and rescue and participation in or support of domestic operations, the Canadian Rangers are always on the front lines providing critical support to Canadians when and where needed.

Photo : 2

Let’s give the floor to the Rangers!

Six Canadian Rangers who participated in the leadership training offered in the Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu region agreed to talk about their experience during this week of activities.

Sergeant Daniel Qinuajak Akulivik

Patrol Member for 49 years

«His training allowed me to brush up on my Leadership skills in a complex and safe environment while I shared my experiences with the new generation of 2 CRPG leaders. It was a rewarding opportunity and I’m proud to belong to a continuous learning organization.»

Master Corporal Adelard Bellefleur Unamen Shipu Patrol Member for 7 years

“I find it interesting to come and look for tools that will help us do our daily work better. Among other things, I loved the parade exercises which allowed us to know how to position ourselves well. I also liked everything about the subject of security.”

Master Corporal Damian Buffit (Left) Saint-Augustin Patrol Member for 20 years

“Like my father and my grandfather, I wanted to become a Canadian Ranger. Before, I was also a Junior Canadian Ranger. I found this week of training very rewarding. There is always something to learn. This training gave me information and knowledge to perform my patrol operations even better. It was also nice to meet Rangers from other communities and reconnect with long-time colleagues and friends.”

Sergeant

Serge Chevarie Magdalen Islands Patrol Member for 14 years

“Helping the community has always been part of my life. I am a practical nurse and a volunteer firefighter in my community. I found it interesting to have the technical updates concerning search and rescue. It was also nice to meet up with Rangers from other communities. Despite the language and cultural barrier, we are part of the same family that shares the same goals.”

Master Corporal Michel Thibeault Havre-Saint-Pierre Patrol Member for 21 years

“This week of training was really great. It will help me pass on my experience to other Rangers in my community. My favourite activity was the roles and responsibilities guide.”

Master Corporal Minnie Ittoshat (Left) Kuujjuarapik Patrol Member for 11 years

“This training week was very helpful and refreshing. This will help me be even more comfortable and equipped to offer my courses to Rangers and Junior Rangers in my community. It was really nice to see the Rangers from other communities again. It's been a long time since we've had the chance to see each other.”

WOMEN'S AMERICAN FOOTBALL

|Yves Bélanger, Servir

If you think American football is a sport strictly for men, think again.

Sergeant Brigitte O’Driscoll, Chief of Air Gunners at 438 Tactical Helicopter Squadron, is passionate about this sport and plays for the Montreal Blitz women’s team.

The CAF member indicates that football has always been her favorite sport. “My dad was a fan and every Sunday I would listen to the games with him.” What she appreciates the most in this sport is the discipline and the strategy with which the players have to deal.

About 15 years ago, she started playing football with peewee level teams. “It was in 2013 that I joined the Montreal Blitz.” She holds the position of defensive end.

For many years, only the Montreal team existed in the Central Canadian Women's Soccer League. “All of our games were against American teams where women's football has been popular for a long time.”

Sgt O’Driscoll adds that the sport has been starting to take hold in Canada for some time. “Among other things, we have teams that are starting to form in Quebec, Gatineau and Toronto. It's starting to get bigger and that's good.”

She goes on to mention that football is more and more popular with women around the world. “We have just come back from the world championships which took place in Finland. It was amazing to see the evolution of the different teams that participated. In the past, gold was always won by the USA or Canada, but this year it was Team Great Britain who finished first.”

Sergeant Brigitte O’Driscoll is a defensive end with the Montreal Blitz

Photo: courtesy

For her, this is a very positive aspect for the future of the sport. “Having teams that are gaining in maturity and experience is much more interesting. There is more challenge and I love that.”

Everyone finds their place

For Sgt O’Driscoll, what is pleasant about American football is that many women can find the right match for their needs. “There are so many different positions you can occupy within a team. There really is room for all kinds of women.”

She also encourages her colleagues to try American football. “The only important prerequisite is to be in good physical shape. For the rest, everything is learned on the field."

The Montreal Blitz

The Montreal Blitz is the only elite level women's contact football team in Montreal. The creation of the team dates back to 2001. In 2015, a new administrative structure was put in place and the management of the team was transferred to the non-profit organization Football Féminin Blitz de Montréal. The team played until 2016 in the Independent Women's Football League (IWFL), which has around thirty teams. Since 2008, the Blitz has won four IWFL championships in addition to distinguishing themselves nationally by winning the 2012 Canadian championship. On the international scene, several players have helped Team Canada win three silver medals at the International Federation of American Football World Championships.

Using art as therapy

Have you ever felt that art contributed to your well-being? Whether through music, sculpting, drawing, painting or even crafts, letting your creative juices flow—without any pressure or expectation of results—does a lot of good.

Art “speaks” to us, it brings out feelings, emotions, thoughts. Artists use it to transmit an idea, an emotion. “Ordinary” people can also use art to illustrate or express an idea or an emotion other than by words, which are sometimes difficult to choose or to say. So why not try using art to help you get through a difficult situation?

I’m trying art therapy!

Thanks to a grant from the Quebec Veterans Foundation, the Military Family Resource Centre (MFRC) is organizing several workshops with certified art therapists during the year. Come try it out in March!

You don't need to be an artist; art therapy has nothing to do with your artistic skills. You don't have to be particularly creative either. Art therapy is about expressing yourself through an image, a photo, colours, shapes, lines, etc.

Psst! There’s a lot more to art therapy than “just” painting and drawing! There’s also collage, crafts, clay, etc. Art therapy is also a creative process that speaks. The result isn’t always what matters most. Come try it! You’ve got nothing to lose!

Schedule, etc.

Who is it for? Military members and veterans who will be transitioning, who are transitioning or who have already transitioned out of the military

The topic: Changes involved in transitioning to civilian life.

Where and when is it?

• Sherbrooke: March 17, 2023, 10 am to 12 pm

• Montreal (east): March 17, 2023, 1 pm to 3 pm

•

Saint-Hubert: March 24, 2023, 1:30 pm to 3:30 pm

• Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu: March 24, 2023, 10 am to 12 pm

Exact locations to be determined. Register on the MFRC portal. Deadline for the Montreal and Sherbrooke workshops: March 13. Deadline for Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu and Saint-Hubert: March 20.

Sergeant Brigitte O'Driscoll, Chief of Air Gunners at 438 Tactical Helicopter Squadron. Photo: courtesy

To learn more about the Montreal Blitz Web site (French only) Facebook

|Audrey Gallant, Social Worker and Family Liaison Officer, MFRC

The PSP offer you…

The Personnel Support Programs team in the Montreal region offers a wide range of services to members of the military

Saint-Jean Garrison – Welcome to our open house!

On January 13 and 14, there will be an open house where you can discover the facilities and the various activities offered to members of the military community and citizens of the Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu region. Visitors who wish to exercise will be able to do so (volleyball, soccer, basketball, pickleball, athletics track, weight room). An instructor will also be on hand to allow you to try the climbing wall (registration is required in order to reserve a time slot). Various kiosks and exclusive offers will be offered.

Schedule: Friday, January 13, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, January 14, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Information and registration for climbing: 450-358-7099 # 7262

Saint-Jean Garrison – Discover the activities that await you this winter

Since September 2022, the Recreation Department of the Saint-Jean Garrison has enhanced its services and offers a wide range of leisure, sports and outdoor activities to both citizens and members of the military community. The activities are aimed at the whole family, from children to retirees, and all are welcome. In a very safe environment with large free parking lots, the entire population can benefit from the facilities and services.

Rock climbing, essentrics 50+, yoga, Latin dance, bootcamp, cardio dance, spinning, free volleyball, free basketball, free soccer, free ball hockey are some of the activities offered. Consult the online program for all the details.

To download the program

Special Offer for Defence Civilian Employees

Until January 20, federal public servants (DND) and employees of the Canadian Forces Moral Welfare Services (CFMWS) can take advantage of the following offers:

• If you are a member of the PSP Plan: free registration for the group lessons of your choice, at no additional cost (your PSP card must be valid throughout the session).

• For people who are not members of the PSP Plan: it is possible to register for group lessons by paying the rate reserved for PSP members for each of the desired lessons. Example: a DND employee who wishes to take the Zumba class will have to pay $70 (PSP member price) for the entire session instead of $150.

To know the rental costs

community. Enjoy!

Montreal Garrison – Consult the winter program

If you have not yet had time to consult the Montreal Garrison's winter recreation program, we invite you to do so as soon as possible. There is a wide range of indoor and outdoor activities, each more interesting than the next. The activities are offered to both members of the military community and citizens.

Hours of free practice for ice hockey

Hockey-loving CAF members can benefit from ice hockey time slots in arenas located on the South Shore and in Montreal.

• Sainte-Julie Arena, 201 Blvd. Armand-Frappier, Sainte-Julie: Tuesdays from 3:10 p.m. to 4:25 p.m.

• Arena Saint-Donat, 6750 de Marseille Street, Montreal: Fridays from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m.

To download the program

To take advantage of these hours, it is essential to reserve your time slot via Sharepoint (accessible only from the Defence Wide Area Network).

Registration

A conference on sleep and performance

This winter, three conference dinners will be presented on Teams by the Health Promotion team in the Montreal region. They will take place from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.

The first event is called Le sommeil et la performance and will be presented in French on January 18. It is intended for CAF members and civilian employees of Defence (public servants and Non-Public Funds).

Registration: promosantemtl@forces.qc.ca

Introduction to the CAF Trainer Program

From February 8 to 13, at Saint-Jean Garrison, an introductory workshop to the Canadian Armed Forces trainer program, Le bandage thérapeutique (the therapeutic bandage), will be offered in French to CAF members (Regular Force and class A, B, C reservists). Interested persons must register before January 27, as the number of places is limited.

Registration: vanessa.mcalpine@forces.gc.ca

Découvrez les différentes plateformes numériques des PSP – Région Montréal

A snowmobile adventure towards reconciliation

|Yves Bélanger, Servir

Corporal Patrick Brunette is a snowmobile and ATV enthusiast. When a friend, Christian Flamand, an aboriginal snowmobile forest survival specialist, told him about his intention to organize a 4,500 km winter expedition touring the ancestral territories located on Quebec land, he immediately jumped on the occasion. He will be one of the 57 snowmobilers of the first edition of the First Nations Expedition.

The event was originally scheduled to take place in February 2022. However, the COVID-19 pandemic forced snowmobilers to postpone their trip for a year. Cpl Brunette is therefore very impatient to begin this adventure.

He explains that this project has evolved a lot since its inception. “We were supposed to be a few snowmobilers who were going to visit the First Nations peoples with the goal of fostering reconciliation. However, Christian had the idea of communicating with the different communities we were planning to visit. They found the idea so interesting that some decided to travel with us.”

Thus, ten Aboriginals, Canadian Rangers, were added to the group of snowmobilers. Two members of the 2nd Canadian Ranger Patrol Group, Warrant Officer Sylvain Morel and Sergeant Pierre Lachance, will also participate. “There will also be seven women, from each of the communities, who will carry the sacred fire from place to place.” Cpl Brunette reminds those seven nations are involved in this project: Attikamek, Cree, Innu, Inuit, Mohawk, Naskapi and Quebec.

Yan Lafrenière, Minister responsible for Relations with First Nations and Inuit, and Lieutenant-General Jocelyn Paul, Commander of the Canadian Army, will be present during the departure that will take place in the Attikamek community of Manawan. “They will be there to cheer us on and meet the participants.”

Not an easy trip

To manage to visit 16 Aboriginal communities in 17 days, snowmobilers will have to travel off the trail no less than 250 km daily. “There is even a day when we will have to cover 350 km in very cold temperatures.” The journey will end at Uashat mak Mani-Utenam, near Sept-Îles. During the ex-

pedition, snowmobilers will have to sleep almost all the time in the tent. “These are tents suitable for extreme expeditions.” Throughout their adventure, snowmobilers will have the chance to savour seven traditional Aboriginal meals. “I can't wait to try these dishes. It will be comforting after several hours of driving in the forest.”

Support

Cpl Brunette explains that participants must pay several thousand dollars to be ready to start on February 16. “To transport our equipment, everyone must, among other things, acquire a trailer suitable for extreme expeditions. This is without counting the money that we will have to spend on gasoline.”

Fortunately, the event organizers convinced several sponsors to provide financial support. “Several people I know also donate money or prepaid gas or credit cards to me.” Those interested in supporting the soldier in his adventure can do so until the day of departure of the expedition.

The importance of reconciliation

The reservist explains that for him, it is important to reconcile with the Aboriginal peoples who have suffered a lot since the arrival of the white man in America. “We need only to think of the tragic story of Joyce Echaquan, the story of murdered Aboriginal women, or the abused Aboriginal youth in residential schools. It comes to me completely. I feel like doing my part to get closer to these people.”

Cpl Brunette mentions that he was among the soldiers present during the Oka crisis in 1990. “I was also deployed to Bosnia a few years later where I witnessed the horrors of war. These are disturbing events. I believe that today, we must put all our energies into reconciling and helping each other.”

Please note that the TVA Sports team will follow the snowmobilers during their journey in order to prepare a documentary that will then be broadcast during the year.

Follow the expedition !

To reach the Corporal

Corporal Patrick Brunette is looking forward to the 4,500 km expedition to the ancestral lands of the Aboriginal people. Photo: courtesy

Canadian Forces Regional Volleyball Championship

The Patriots are back in action!

|Captain Patrick Clément, Regional Cadet Support Unit – East

The Canadian Forces Regional Volleyball Championship was held December 5-9 in Ottawa. The Patriotes of the Montreal region were represented by a men's team and feminine players from the region had been drafted by Valcartier’s team.

The men’s team had to deal with the fact that its members never had the chance to practice all together. In the preliminary rounds, the team members got to know each other and, game by game, improved their skills to rank third in the preliminaries. This is what allowed them to reach the semi-finals to face The Ottawa Nationals.

During the game, the Patriotes fought with great determination, but ultimately lost in four very tight sets. The Valcartier Lions then defeated the Ottawa team to win top honours.

Thank you to the coach, Warrant Officer Pierre Audet, and to all the players who got involved in one way or another during and after the tournament. Once again, congratulations to the men's volleyball team for their great performance during the 2022 regionals!

The Montreal region did not have a women's team this year. However, two local players, Captain Annie Boyer and Warrant Officer Valérie Morin were recruited by the Valcartier Lionnes. The team was defeated in the final by The Ottawa Nationals.

Photo: courtesy