Estelle Auger, Employment and Education Coordinator, MFRC
The Military Family Resource Centre (MFRC) offers a variety of French as a Second Language (FLS) and English as a Second Language (ESL) training programs for spouses, children and teens of military families. Registration will begin in January.
We are currently finishing the session of virtual English courses. These courses started in September and were offered
Noémi Trépanier, Childhood Services Coordinator, Youth, MFRC
We are very excited to announce that youth activities are resuming at the Military Family Resource Centre (MFRC).
FOR CHILDREN AGED SIX AND OLDER
The program offers a whole new range of activities related to the discovery of new technologies in collaboration with the organization Genielab. The main objective is, of course, to encourage youth to get out, to get together and to connect with other youth who are going through the same thing as them.
Five tech workshops will focus on various themes such as the basics of robotics with Morse code, electrical circuits and robot construction.
for various levels. Congratulations to all the students for their efforts and attendance! The groups will resume on January 23, after a welldeserved break. January 7 to 13 will be the time for new students to register for the Winter 2023 session. Other groups may also be established.
This fall, English group classes were held virtually with the teacher and French classes were oneonone only through the Rosetta Stone online training program. Virtual classes make it much easier to reach military family members who live far from our service points. It is also easier to reach a pool of people who are at a similar level. New groups may be started following the registration period—either inperson groups or virtual groups— depending on demand.
Second language courses for children and adolescents with homework help in FLS or ESL may also be started depending on demand. The session is usually 12 weeks for the adult courses and 8 weeks for the youth courses. It therefore runs from the end of January
Saint-Jean service point schedule:
• Sunday, January 29, 2023: 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
• Sunday, February 12, 2023: 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
• Sunday, February 26, 2023: 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
• Sunday, March 12, 2023: 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
• Sunday, March 26, 2023: 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Community living centre for youth (Loft) schedule:
• Sunday, February 5, 2023: 9:00 a.m. to noon
• Sunday, March 19, 2023: 9:00 a.m. to noon
These activities are offered for children aged six and older. Hurry! Space is limited.
Some great activities are also offered to the younger children as part of the drop in daycare program. They will be visited twice by the organization Profaqua to learn more about insects and animals.
to approximately the beginning of April, depending on the group schedule. A minimum of five participants is required to start a course.
We are looking to hire a new French teacher to join our team for the Winter 2023 session. Contact us if you
have an interest and experience for this position.
Information estelle.auger@forces.gc.ca 450-358-7099 ext. 6084 (Saint-Jean) 450-462-8777 ext. 6827 (Saint-Hubert)
Registraion
To participate in these activities, children aged five and under who are not eligible for kindergarten must register at the drop in daycare of the desired service point. Please note that space is limited! You can register your child for the entire period from 7:45 a.m. to noon. The themed activity will take place from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
Saint-Hubert service point schedule:
• Tuesday, February 7: 7:45 a.m. to noon
• Tuesday, March 7: 7:45 a.m. to noon
Saint-Jean service point schedule:
• Thursday, February 9: 7:45 a.m. to noon
• Thursday, March 9: 7:45 a.m. to noon
Registration Saint-Hubert: 450-468-8777 ext. 6810 Saint-Jean: 450-358-7099 ext. 7955
Information noemi.trepanier@forces.gc.ca 450-358-7099 ext. 7012
Vol. 28/No 20 December 7, 2022
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
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
• 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
Yves Bélanger, Servir
After almost three years of absence, the traditional Volunteer Recognition Evening, organized by the Saint-Jean Garrison Recreation Department in collaboration with the Montreal Region Military Family Resource Center (MFRC), was back on December 3 at the Patriotes Mess.
About forty people were present at this event, which took place under the theme of the 1920s. In addition to volunteers from the MFRC, were present those from the golf, shooting and hunting clubs of the Recreation Department.
A dozen gifts were drawn among the guests. This festive evening allowed volunteers to come together and talk to each other. “It was the first face-to-face event of its kind in a long time. People were really happy to be together,” said Gabrielle Sexton, recreation coordinator.
Note that this evening was organized thanks to the collaboration of CANEX, sponsor of the Volunteer Recognition Program. The Desjardins military fund and the BMO branch of the Saint-Jean Garrison also contributed to the evening.
Audrey Gallant, S.W., Family Liaison Officer, MFRC
Myriam Dutour, S.W., Veteran Family Program Coordinator, MFRC
Are you or your spouse leaving the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF), or have you done so recently? Do you want to prepare for this transition individually or as a couple? Do you have mixed feelings? Are you not sure who you are anymore or how you define yourself? Here’s an activity that might help!
The Military Family Resource Centre (MFRC) is offering you a weekend getaway where you can take some time to reflect, alone or as a couple, on the changes you will encounter when you leave the CAF. This getaway will take place at the Auberge West Brome from January 27 to 29, 2022.
Accommodation and meal expenses are covered by the MFRC. Any other personal expenses are to be covered by you, such as transportation, alcohol, onsite activities other than those included with your stay, and childcare.
During this getaway, you will have the opportunity to participate in workshops that address the various psychosocial aspects of the transition, and you will participate in activities where you will meet other people who are experiencing a situation similar to yours.
The workshops were developed to guide you through a process involving reflections and actions in a logical se-
quence. The workshop consists of three 2.5-hour meetings. The participants will receive a notebook. This notebook, or “log book,” will be used for reflection either alone, as a family, or as a couple.
Some of the topics include the following:
• Effects and loss associated with injury, illness, and the transition;
• Supporting someone who has experienced loss;
• Adaptation process (who are you?) using the Bridges model;
• Spheres of life, needs, and values;
• Family and couples questions;
• Social networks;
• Hope/opportunities; and
• Tools, tricks, and resources.
How to register
Register through the MFRC Portal before December 19, 2022. If you have any food allergies, please let us know when you register.
Information
Myriam.Dutour@forces.gc.ca or 450-358-7099 ext. 2910 (Saint-Jean)
Audrey.Gallant@forces.gc.ca or 450-358-7099 ext. 5190 (Saint-Jean)
The team of the Corporation du Fort Saint-Jean joins me
Steve Hétu, CD, MED, ASC Président-directeur général
During my numerous visits to garrisons and training sites over the past few months, I have been very pleased to note that despite two years of pandemic, the return to normal operations does not seem to have dampened your enthusiasm, your commitment and your desire to do things well. Knowing that the rhythm imposed by the training cycle and the challenges related to reconstitution put a lot of pressure on our daily activities, I am very proud and above all grateful for all the efforts put in place so that the 2nd Canadian Division can achieve, and even exceed, the objectives we set ourselves at the start of the year. Our contribution to the successes of the Army is recognized, appreciated and reflected throughout the Canadian Armed Forces.
As you know, the geopolitical situation is difficult, and this period of international tension is expected to continue for some time. The international order which was established by our predecessors, and which gave us years of relative peace, is now being challenged. As a result, the demands for the intervention of military forces around the world will be increased. For this, land and personnel resources as well as equipment will be particularly solicited. We must therefore organize and equip ourselves. Canada and its allied partners are counting on us, and we are the institution that must be ready to act.
The pace of training will pick up quickly in January and the next year will be full of challenges with the tasks and exercises related to the Road to High Readiness. We must take advantage of these opportunities to re-examine our ways of doing things, shake up the status quo, review our training system and increasingly integrate new technologies. Initiatives in this direction are currently being developed within the division and are generating a lot of interest.
One challenge remains, that of recruitment and retention. All those who wish to wear the uniform deserve our attention and our support. This is why
we must exercise positive leadership and respect the dignity of everyone. Our conduct both on and off the job is important: Let's be the best soldiers and citizens we can be.
Chief Warrant Officer Forest joins me in expressing our sincere appreciation for your constant dedication. Your professionalism and your determination place the 2nd Canadian Division among the best formations in the country. It is without a doubt that you are our most precious resource and our greatest pride. Together, let us continue to watch over each other and show kindness both in Garrison and in operation.
I encourage you to make the most of the holiday season to recharge your batteries, unwind and rest. Spend quality time with your loved ones and thank them for allowing you to fulfill your commitment to your unit and your country. Your families and friends are essential, and their contribution deserves to be recognized.
May this holiday season be synonymous with joy and comfort, and may 2023 be filled with optimism and the fulfillment of your highest aspirations in all spheres of your life.
Brigadier-General Stéphane Boivin
Chief Warrant Officer Michael Forest Honor and Perseverance
Chief Warrant Officer Normand and I want to take this opportunity to wish the entire military and civilian community a serene, restful and happy holiday season.
As the command team of Montreal and Saint-Jean Garrisons, we would like to express our gratitude to all of you for the excellent work and dedication you have shown throughout the past year.
The holiday season gives us the opportunity to take a break from our daily tasks and worries, to spend time with family and friends. Taking care of others is also taking care of yourself. We wish each of you that this New Year fulfills your dearest wishes with solidarity, generosity, and inner peace.
It is with all our heart that we wish you and your loved ones a very happy holiday season and a happy New Year 2023!
Colonel Serge Menard, Commander Chief Warrant Officer Eric Normand, Sergeant Major
The Canadian Forces Morale and Welfare Services (CFMWS) invites you to take advantage of Happy Days to help members of your community, recharge your batteries and even win a $1,000 prize!
While shopping, donate to support someone in your community. Until December 15, CANEX will match your donation (made in-store and on CANEX. ca) to equally support two official Canadian Armed Forces charities: Support Our Troops and Soldier On. Every dollar donated will have twice the impact for a CAF member, Veteran or family in need.
Personnel Support Programs (PSP) will also be collecting donations through their online registration portal. One hundred percent of the proceeds will be donated to Support Our Troops to cover the costs of support workers who facilitate the inclusion of children in summer camps. Each year, it costs about $7,500 per worker to support up to 15 children from military families. In 2022, 203 families requested the help of a support
worker so that their child could attend camp.
“We recognize that families with children with special needs face many challenges, but CAF families face unique and special challenges due to the military lifestyle,” said Bruce Plowman, Vice President Manager of Personnel Support Programs. “It is extremely important to work together to mitigate these barriers and promote resources, potential funding sources and opportunities for community engagement and activities.”
A $5 donation will entitle you to download an exclusive digital artwork, painted by artist Kristen Lucyshyn. Kristen comes from a military family and has lived across Canada and various parts of the United States. She has worked for CFMWS since 1998 and has been deployed. She is currently posted to Canadian Forces Base Shilo. Once the file is downloaded, you can print it to frame it, make cards, decorate mugs or follow us on social media where we make festive decorations that you can make yourself.
On December 16, at 8:30 p.m. (EST), you can catch a virtual concert by Signal Hill performing holiday songs. Join your voices with theirs to perform catchy songs!
Finally, PSP Recreation presents the Jolly Days Decorations Contest whether classic, contemporary or wacky… Whatever your style, show us your creativity by sharing your photos or videos. You could win a $1,000 gift certificate from Canadian Tire.
On behalf of the Royal Military College Saint-Jean, Chief Warrant Officer Plante and I would like to extend our best wishes for health, happiness and prosperity to the personnel of the College, the Corporation du Fort SaintJean, the Canadian Forces Leadership and Recruit School, the 2nd Canadian Division, as well as all of our key partners and collaborators and the community of Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu.
We hope that you will take full advantage of this holiday season to spoil yourselves a little, to gather with family and friends. We would like to take this opportunity to thank all the members of the RMC Saint-Jean and the Chief Warrant Officer Robert-Osside Profession of Arms Institute team for their unconditional dedication, their team spirit and their professionalism in accomplishing our mission.
Our thoughts this holiday season are especially with our deployed colleagues and their families. We wish them well and thank them for their sacrifice which undoubtedly brings peace and friendship to these remote areas.
Sincerely,
Colonel Gaétan Bédard,Commandant Chief Warrant Officer Rick Plante, Chief Warrant Officer Truth, Duty, Valour
Members of the Board of Directors, management and staff of the Military Family Resource Centre of the Montreal Region wish you all the best for the year 2023!
Let us take advantage of this festive period to rejoice in all our successful actions and to look forward to our next professional, personal and family challenges with joy!
May all the projects implemented by the MFRC - Montreal Region find an echo in the heart of every military family! We are here for you!
May this magical holiday season be one of peace, love and joy!
If you or someone close to you is feeling worried or distressed over the next few weeks, reach out for help. Many resources are there to listen and support you:
• Chaplaincy: 450 358-7099, ext. 7420. Outside normal hours, call 514-2392953 (Saint-Jean) and 514-346-5859
(Montréal) for the chaplain on duty
• Family Information line (for CAF members and veterans): 1-800-866-4546
• 34 Canadian Brigade Group Helpline (for reservists only):1-844-HAF-GROW
• Provincial Suicide Prevention Line 24/7: 1-866-APPELLE (1-866-2773553)
• Canadian Armed Forces Member Assistance Program: 1-800-268-7708
• Canadian Forces Morale and Welfare Services Employee
Helpline:1-800-361-5676
• Public Service Employee Assistance Program: 1-800-268-7708
The end of the year is a time for getting together with friends and family. And this year, now that the restrictions have fallen, we will have the opportunity to see each other again in person in large gatherings. There will certainly be people who will still worry about circulating viruses and potential infections, but despite these concerns and while respecting everyone's values, we will finally experience a holiday season that we have all been waiting for for two years.
Why not take advantage of this period of leave to reconnect with the members of the family whom we have had very little contact with and return to our traditional activities? Would you dare to initiate new traditions? Invite someone to attend a traditional music show or a Christmas concert near you, visit the Christmas markets, go skating, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing or fat biking, rent a chalet and invite friends or family… Outdoor outings in the snowy settings of our favourite region, clean air and wide open spaces will always remain timeless and rewarding classics. Hard to ask for better.
We often look for the ideal gift and we spend a lot of money looking for the rare pearl that will suit each person. Unless you've been taking notes on everyone, you know throughout the year to properly identify their needs, and even despite these efforts, it's possible they've already gotten the coveted item.
Today, can we offer time? Be generous with yourselves, offer a helping hand for work or cleaning. How about cooking for a friend or relative? Cook at his (her) home and take the time to talk to this person. Offer to accompany someone in your community (neighbour, friend, family) to a medical appointment or to their favourite activity. Time is one of the few resources we control
and we often underestimate its value to others. Match your skills and interests with the needs of the people around you. And there you go! You have the magic formula for the perfect gift.
What would be the gift that would make you happy? Have you expressed it to the people around you? Is it a gift that you dare not give yourself for reasons of money or priority?
At the risk of repeating myself, I think you would like to have some time for yourself! Time to relax, decompress and change your daily routine. A day at the spa, why not?
Dare to do things that would make you happy, things that inspire you or that you have always wanted to do. Why not sign up for a recreational activity in your neighbourhood? A gift that will give you that feeling of pleasure longer than the holidays. A subscription to a series of shows, yoga, dance or language course, signing up for a sport for next season...
Time for yourself, do you have this opportunity? Yes, of course! It is up to you to invest this time for yourself. Whatever your choice, do it for you. You should be the most important person to you. Give yourself the importance you deserve.
We wish you a very happy holiday season!
Pascal Vincent Manager, Health Promotion
In this time of celebration, Servir newspaper team would like to warmly thank its loyal readers who, edition after edition, follow regional military news.
A very special thank you to our collaborators and our advertisers without whom it would be impossible for us to continue our mission.
Take the time to have fun with your loved ones and rest. We will be back on January 12, 2023.
Annie Leclerc, Prevention, Support and Intervention Coordinator, MFRC
Although the holidays are often a time of happiness, holiday festivities can sometimes increase our anxiety level. Here is a short guide to help you better appreciate this time of year.
Gatherings with family and friends can mean conflict, absence of loved ones, endless gift buying, long preparations, lack of sleep, irregular meal times, and changes in routine and lifestyle habits.
TIPS FOR DEALING WITH HOLIDAY ANXIETY
• Buy gifts in advance or online, stick to your budget, opt for adult gift exchanges;
• Delegate. Give tasks to family members (decorating, helping wrap gifts, cleaning the house, etc.);
• Give up old expectations: drop the famous punch or the homemade Yule log. You don’t have to cook everything. Your guests can bring a side dish, for example;
• Talk to people you trust. Express your feelings;
• Set aside time for yourself. Do something you enjoy every day (walking, having coffee, drawing, DIY tasks, reading, dancing, working with mechanics, sewing, etc.);
• Get enough sleep;
• Do 20 minutes of physical activity a day (stretching, walking, yoga, playing a sport, dancing, etc.);
• Make a todo list and prioritize;
• Watch what you eat and how much you drink or use drugs;
• The holiday season leads us to eating fatty, sweet and abundant foods at irregular hours. Avoid abuse over a long period of time.
RECOGNIZE THE SIGNS OF ANXIETY
• Fatigue;
• Sleep disturbances;
• Headaches;
• Dizziness, lightheadedness or feeling of impending loss of consciousness;
• Nausea;
• Diarrhea or abdominal discomfort;
• Heart palpitations or increased heart rate;
• Choking sensation or feeling of suffocation;
• Excessive sweating;
• Hot flashes or chills;
• High blood pressure;
• Muscle twitching or tremors that may be generalized to the whole body;
• Chest pain and tightness;
• Feeling of unreality and loss of control;
• Numbness or tingling;
• Difficulty concentrating;
THE MFRC IS THERE FOR YOU
Need help with strategies to reduce anxiety? Don’t hesitate to contact the Military Family Resource Centre’s psychosocial line at 450-358-7099 ext. 2917 or at SvcPersCRFMSoutienPsyStJean@forces.gc.ca
• Feelings of worry.
Do some volunteer work! In addition to overcoming the isolation and meeting likeminded people, volunteering brings a sense of wellbeing. Find a charitable activity related to your interests:
About anxiety disorders
Stress et Anxiété durant les fêtes: 29 trucs simples pour mieux les gérer (French only)
Yves Bélanger, Servir
The Canadian Corps of Commissionaires was founded in 1925. The centennial baton, commemorating the 100th anniversary of this organization, which is now called Commissionaires, was at Saint-Jean Garrison on November 24.
François Quesnel, chief coordinator of Commissionaires - Quebec, indicates that the centennial baton will cross the country to reach British Columbia in 2025. “It has so far toured the Maritime provinces. Recently, it is in Quebec and will tour the bases and garrisons.”
The travel of the baton is planned over a period of 500 days. “It will cover more than 5,000 kilometres.” In each of the places visited, the Commissionaires are invited to have their photo taken with the symbol of the 100th anniversary of their organization.
With this activity, Commissionaires want to connect its many employees and the communities in which they live and serve. This organization is Canada's largest private sector employer of
veterans and the only national not-forprofit security company. “Our Commissionaires provide a presence in many communities across the country. Our employees do their best to support
them by providing excellent security and protection services.”
With the holiday season upon us, we turn our thoughts with gratitude toward those who are serving our country.
Peace, joy, and friendship.
Yves Bélanger, Servir
A member of the 55th Field Ambulance, Corporal Yubert Andres Becerra Mendez, has two careers at the same time. In addition to his nursing position with his reserve unit, he has a full-time civilian job as a sports and fitness instructor at Saint-Jean Garrison.
It was in 2011 that Cpl Becera Mendez decided to join the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF). “I started my career in the 35th Signal Regiment.” It was his interest for adventure and the need to meet challenges that mainly led him to join
the CAF. “Within the Reserve, there are always new exercises. It's far from routine as a job. I love that!”
In 2015, however, he decided to leave 35 Sig Reg to join the 55th Field Ambulance. “I had just studied nursing and I wanted a job that corresponded more to my field of expertise.”
Cpl Becerra Mendez, 30, holds a bachelor's degree in sports intervention. “These studies combine kinesiology, sports instruction and sports intervention.”
Last summer, he left Quebec City to settle in the Montreal area. “I came here because I was hired by the Personnel Support Programs (PSP) as a sports and fitness instructor at the Saint-Jean Garrison.
The CAF member world therefore now occupies most of his time. “I really enjoy working with candidates from the
Canadian Forces Leadership and Recruit School. When I introduce myself to a new platoon, I do not hesitate to mention that I am also a CAF member.”
He admits that it is sometimes difficult to remain in his role of instructor when he intervenes with CFLRS candidates. “I'm very careful about that, especially when I'm disciplining them.”
He maintains that he understands what these future soldiers and Officers are going through, having been there himself. “They have a lot of challenges ahead, but my main goal is to prove to them that they can do it.”
He has a good sense of belonging to the PSP and aspires to build his career with them. “I would like to eventually hold a coordinator position.”
His main challenge is to master the English language. “It’s a third language for me after Spanish and French. It's not always easy, but working mainly with English pelotons, I will improve quickly.”
At the military level, Cpl Becerra Mendez also aspires to have a long career. He hopes to be able to obtain the rank of master corporal in a near future. “My change of job type within the CAF has slowed my rise a bit, but I intend to climb the ranks one by one. I have already done my leadership course and should be promoted soon. My primary goal is to always give as much as I can to my unit,” he says proudly.
The CAF member puts a lot of effort in order to succeed brilliantly in his two careers. His reserve unit being in the Quebec region, he goes there one weekend a month. “It also allows me to see my relatives who live there. There are weeks where I feel it's physically demanding to do both jobs, but I love what I do and I intend to continue.”
Several activities were organized by the units to raise funds for the National Defence Workplace Charitable Campaign (NDWCC). Thank you to all those who organized them and to the participants!
On November 23, at the Saint-Jean Garrison, a dozen participants accepted the invitation of Marie-France Brunelle, Health Promotion Specialist, who offered a step class in the style of the 1980s and 1990s. An amount of $92 was raised.
On November 21, from 10 to 11 a.m., a team from the Canadian Forces Leadership and Recruit School served soups for a $2 contribution. The four soup choices, each more delicious than the other, raised $212.
Sergeant Driss Madane, 3 CSU
When it comes to getting involved in our society and putting in the effort for good causes, members of the 3rd Canadian Support Unit (3 CSU) stand out and answer the call. Once again this year, they participated in the National Defence Workplace Charitable Campaign (NDWCC) and exceeded their goal by raising over $6,911.
Made up of Chief Warrant Officer Frank Brunet, Warrant Officer Martin Bergeron and Sergeant Karina Harvey, the Centraide Committee took the lead in starting this charity campaign on Friday, September 23 and organized several interesting events.
$1,000 CHALLENGE TO DYE THE SERGEANT MAJOR'S HAIR
On September 29, the committee gave a daunting challenge to the Sergeant Major: to have his hair dyed if the unit collected donations exceeding $1,000. He accepted without hesitation, but
unfortunately for him and fortunately for Centraide, the staff was also convinced to pay to have his hair dyed pink! The unit managed to raise the generous sum of $1,106 in less than 48 hours.
CHIEF WARRANT OFFICER'S LUNCH
On October 27, unit members were asked to donate $2 or two nonperishable items for the chaplain's charity basket. In exchange for their generous donations, members received local pastries. The event was a success and a warm atmosphere reigned within the unit.
On November 8, the Centraide Committee organized a hot dog dinner. For $2 per hot dog, members were able to share a convivial dinner. All funds were donated to the NDWCC, for the benefit of several charities.
FRIDAYS DRESSED IN CIVILIAN CLOTHES
On Fridays, unit members can temporarily put aside their uniform and wear civilian clothes in exchange for a donation to Centraide. This very popular initiative allowed members of the unit to be comfortable and raise more than $3,000!
Once again this year, a team from the Canadian Forces Leadership and Recruit School offered to take family photos for Christmas in exchange for a $15 donation. The activity, which took place on November 19 and 20, raised the sum of $555.
Mélanie Choquette, in charge of the NDWCC for the Saint-Jean Garrison, with her two children, Heïdi Nicol, 8 years old, and Zack Nicol, 6 years old.
Some members of the unit, including Master Corporal Danny Désiré, Corporal Samuel Corbeil, Corporal Christopher Lapointe-Isabelle and Corporal Francis Rivet, founded The FanSTASHtic 4 team as part of Movember. This charitable event, held in November, offers men to grow moustaches for 30 days to raise
During the week of November 21 to 25, the Food Services team put on sale containers of soup for $9 each. Cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, squash and carrot soup and seafood chowder were offered. The activity raised the sum of $596.
awareness and funds to fight men's diseases such as prostate and testicular cancer, as well as mental health disorders. The FanSTASHtic 4 collected over $600. Congratulations!
Bravo Zulu to all the staff involved and we thank all those who made donations for this good cause!
Yves Bélanger, Servir
It's not just monetary donations that can be made to support our community. Donating hours to a charity can also be very helpful. This year, in addition to participating in various fundraising activities for the National Defence Workplace Charitable Campaign, nine employees of the Saint-Jean Garrison Personnel Support Programs decided to give a few hours of their time to Moisson Rive-Sud
Six of them, Roxanne Laniel, Administrative Assistant, Michelle CoutureMontpetit, Deputy Manager, Alexandra Maher, Marketing Coordinator, Sébastien Despars, Deputy Manager, Jean-Philippe Daoust Guernon, Facilities Coordinator, and Mario Pronovost, Mess Manager, visited the organization's premises in Boucherville.
Roxanne Laniel says that for her, it was a way of giving back. “A few hours can
make a huge difference for many families.” With Michelle CoutureMontpetit and Alexandra Maher, among other things, she filled bags of carrots that will soon be distributed in food baskets. “I loved the experience. I would love to do it again. I think it's a good example to set for our children.”
Alexandra Maher adds that she also found it very rewarding to participate in this volunteer activity. “This is a cause close to my heart. I found it relevant to give a bit of my time.”
For their part, Mathieu Boudreau, Health Promotion Specialist, Gabrielle Sexton, Recreation Coordinator, and Jacques Béland, Senior Manager, gave their time to pick apples. These were then given to Moisson Rive-Sud
Mathieu Boudreau claims to have found it very pleasant to devote time to a good cause in the company of work colleagues. “We had a very nice sunny day. In addition, we had with us a little volunteer of two years, Tahlia, the daughter of Gabrielle Sexton. She sang us beautiful songs to motivate us!”
Yves Bélanger, Servir
From November 18 to 20, more than 450 reservists from the 35th Canadian Brigade Group (35 CBG) were present in Thetford Mines to take part in a combat exercise in an urban environment. This activity took place as part of 3rd Primary Targeted Audience, the largest annual exercise for 35 CBG Reservists. With its old disused buildings, the Thetford Mines mine was the perfect place to hold this exercise.
Corporal Jean-François Vallée, of the Fusiliers de Sherbrooke, was present. He explains that he loved his experience and that the weather conditions (snow and cold) as well as the uneven terrain were the most difficult obstacles to face during this weekend. “But, in general, everything went well. We are always happy to participate in this type of exercise which helps us to stay alert.”
Along with a few of his colleagues, Cpl Vallée was in charge of a .50calibre machine gun. “It’s a very heavy equipment. Each member of the team carried one of the parts of this weapon. When we determined a place to set up, we had to quickly assemble the machine gun to be ready to surprise the enemy team.”
Yves Bélanger, Servir
Exercise Bastion verrouillé took place on November 21 in the afternoon at the Saint-Jean Garrison. The latter went without major problems.
“All garrison personnel managed to self-isolate by following the rules. We found no errors,” said Captain Steve Comeau, Public Affairs Officer at the 2nd Canadian Division Support Group. This annual exercise aims to prepare personnel and improve procedures in the face of the threat of a critical incident, particularly in the case of an active aggressor.
Yves Bélanger, Servir
Isabelle Côté, manager at SISIP Financial at Saint-Jean Garrison, is currently on her first deployment as an employee of the Canadian Forces Morale and Welfare Services. She will finish her mandate on Operation REASSURANCE ROTO 2022 shortly and will be back with her loved ones in mid-December. It was in June that Ms. Côté left Canada to go to Latvia at Camp Adazi, located 45 minutes from Riga. “I wanted to take a little break from my career and experience at least once the experience of a deployment with the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF).”
She works there as a travel and recreation coordinator. “I handle travel for CAF members and Personnel Support Programs (PSP) employees. I also take care of making claims for CAF members for their period of leave. I book plane tickets and then make a presentation to members to give them the instructions related to their vacations. When they come back, I have to proceed with the final claim.”
She explains that this work is completely different from the one she does at SISIP Financial. “Here, I do fairly routine clerical work, but it requires a fast pace of execution. Our work schedule is Monday to Saturday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., as well as every other Sunday. There are also certain excursions that we have to take part in.”
She maintains that her experience is a bit more demanding than she had anticipated. “I knew that deployments of this type were very difficult. Among other things, we are always in a group and we sleep in a tent where there is very few privacy. Sleep is sometimes limited due to the fact that some of our colleagues snore, cough or talk while sleeping.” The hours of sunshine, longer than in Quebec, added to the various changes. “When I arrived, the day set
around midnight and rose around 3 a.m. It was quite destabilizing!”
Although she is happy to experience a deployment, Ms. Côté does not intend to experience another. “I experienced what I wanted and it’s interesting. However, it is also very physically demanding. You have to be fit and healthy to deploy.”
She explains that she gained several benefits from her experience. “It allows us to discover our strengths and weaknesses. For example, living in a tent with three other people practices patience and letting go. Civilian employees often do not have experience of living in a community and they think that their room is like home. Sometimes you have to make adjustments.”
It also develops resilience and resourcefulness. “Among other things, I expected that my main challenge would be to work almost all the time in English. However, it was the fact that my work was 90% of the time in front of my computer that I found the most difficult. It took some adapting.”
She enjoyed meeting people from across Canada and from several countries. “Among other things, the Latvians are nice to us. It's nice, because there are several who speak English. So it's easy to talk to them.”
During her time in Eastern Europe, Ms. Côté had the chance to discover the beauties of the capital region. “I visited Old Riga and Jurmala Beach. I also had the opportunity to visit various castles including one in Rundale, Cesis and Sigulda, where there were also superb caves.”
To occupy her free time, Isabelle Côté devoted several hours to physical training. “Vanessa McAlpine, from the PSP at the Saint-Jean Garrison, was deployed with me for a few months. She prepared a personalized routine for me. I also walk regularly. In the evening, I participate in activities organized on site such as Paint night, Bingo, Trivia night, karaoke, as well as the presentation of films.
What she finds most difficult is being away from her loved ones. “I am lucky that my family supports me in this project. I am happy, because so far there have been no unfortunate events at home since my departure. I would have found it difficult to experience this from a distance.”
She can't wait to find her family a few days before the holidays. “A deployment
is also difficult for the family. For them, we are at the gates of Russia and with the current political situation, they are experiencing some stress.” Luckily, she was able to communicate with them regularly through social media. “We were able to talk and I reassured them.”
THE PERSONNEL SUPPORT PROGRAMS TEAM IN THE MONTREAL REGION OFFERS A WIDE RANGE OF SERVICES TO MEMBERS OF THE MILITARY COMMUNITY. ENJOY!
Good news! Since December 3, the Longue-Pointe sports centre at the Montreal Garrison has been open on Saturdays, from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
To get the full schedule
SAINT-JEAN
The Saint-Jean Garrison Recreation Department recently joined the Invent’air program. Born from an initiative of Loisir et Sport Montérégie, Invent’air is an outdoor equipment rental service aimed at facilitating access to the outdoors for citizens of the Montérégie. This initiative will improve and diversify the recreation and sports equipment available at the sports and outdoor store. Both CAF members and citizens will benefit from it!
To discover the winter outdoor availableequipment
Do you know hok skiing? Designed for winter hiking, this sport is a hybrid between ski touring and snowshoeing. It combines the movements similar to that of the snowshoe in ascent and the possibility of sliding such as with cross-country skis. Also called ski-snowshoeing, this activity combines the advantages of these two sports. The hok ski allows a fast and fun excursion on the loose snow of the forest. The sports and outdoor shops of the Saint-Jean and Montreal Garrisons rent them. What a great way to test this activity at low cost!
To obtain hok ski rental rates
To be well informed of the schedules of the facilities of the Personnel Support Programs during the holiday season, click on the following link: (Available on December 10)
Holidays schedule
Started in October, the season of the Monteal Region Interunit Hockey League is going well. All games are played on the ice of Royal Military College Saint-Jean, Mondays and Thursdays, from 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Here are the results of recent games played:
Date Team 1 Team 2
October 6 CFLRS (6) Trappeurs (9)
October 13 22 (4) Outsiders (2)
October 17 Trappeurs (3) 22 (7)
October 20 Outsiders (3) CFLRS(7)
October 24 Outsiders (3) Trappeurs (7)
October 27 CFLRS (8) 22 (5)
November 3 22 (8) Outsiders (3)
November 10 CFLRS (3) Outsiders (6)
For full results
DISCOVER THE DIFFERENT DIGITAL PLATFORMS OF THE PSP – MONTREAL REGION!
Yves Bélanger, Servir
Although he has only been practicing cross-country since last year, Officer Cadet Maximilien Filion of Royal Military College Saint-Jean (RMC SaintJean) recently defended the colours of Quebec at the Canadian Cross-Country Championships held November 26 in Ottawa.
OCdt Filion indicates that he had experienced some cross-country running during his young age. However, it was upon his arrival at RMC Saint-Jean that he decided to throw himself fully into this sport. “I'm a guy who likes to take on challenges. So I joined the RMC triathlon club and cross-country is one of the racing styles we do.”
On October 29, OCdt Filion and a few members of the triathlon team represented RMC Saint-Jean at the Provincial
Cross-Country Championship held in Rawdon. Among the juniors (18-20 years old), he finished in 6th position among all the participants in the province. “It has been very good for me. I was very proud of my result.”
It was following this performance that the Quebec team recruited the future officer. “I found that very flattering and rewarding.”
During this Canadian championship, 90 runners from across the country were registered. “I finished 18th among them. For me, this is a more than satisfactory result.”
All the results obtained by the runners of the Quebec team allowed it to finish in 2nd place. “Team Ontario won the gold.”
OCdt Filion is a true sports enthusiast. “For me, it's a great way to relax, take my mind off things and clear my mind.”
He trains 12 hours a week. “I run between 30 and 60 km per week. I also dedicate at least two hours to strength training. I also do two to three hours of cycling a week, in addition to swimming.”
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