Servir - Vol. 29/No 04 – March 29, 2023

Photo:

Saint-Jean Garrison Office K-125, PO Box 100

Station bureau-chef

Richelain QC J0J 1R0

450-358-7099 #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 # 6570 steve.comeau@forces.gc.ca

• Capt Frédéric Thouin

514-252-2777 # 4530 frederic.thouin717@forces.gc.ca

• Claude Tourville

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

MANAGER : Guylaine Fortin

450-358-7099 # 7426 guylaine.fortin@forces.gc.ca

JOURNALIST : Yves Bélanger

450-358-7099 # 7330 yves.belanger@forces.gc.ca

ADVERTISING AND SUBSCRIPTION :

Bélinda Raîche, 450-358-7099 # 6346 belinda.raiche@forces.gc.ca

GRAPHIC DESIGNER : Mathilde Pouille

TRANSLATION : Google

Publication requests should be sent in Word format at servir@forces. gc.ca. The manager reserves the right to reject or modify any editorial or advertising content.

ISSN 0384-0417

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

The art of satiating the troops

|Yves Bélanger, Servir

On a daily basis, at the Saint-Jean Garrison, the Food Services serve 2,800 meals at the Cours gourmandes and the dining room located under the Patriotes Mess.

On average, 860 candidates from the Canadian Forces Leadership and Recruits School (CFLRS) are fed three times a day in the Cours gourmandes. At the dining room, around 90 people have breakfast and 210 have lunch. At supper time, the 60 foreign soldiers studying at the Canadian Forces Languages School - Saint-Jean Detachment move to the Cours gourmandes since dinning room is closed.

Master Warrant Officer Pascal Lavoie, Master Warrant Officer of operations for the Food Services of the 2nd Canadian Division Suport Group, adds that the staff serves 90 breakfasts, 100 lunches and 90 suppers every day in the kitchen of the Farnham training site. “Since the beginning of January, we have also prepared 3,314 Haybox, whether for lunch, dinner or supper.”

Currently, 95 people (74 civilian employees and 21 CAF members) work in the kitchens of the Food Services to meet demand. “To feed large numbers of people, we need a solid team that works seven days a week, even on public holidays or during the legal holidays,” said MWO Lavoie.

Like several companies and organizations, Food Services must compose with the shortage of personnel. “However, at the moment, we are in the process of having new staff (public service positions) to provide vacancies.”

He continues by explaining that in a few months, two new cooks, a kitchen aid and six new general aids will be added to the team. “In order to provide these positions, we use a private agency. Students are also hired. Their help is felt at all levels and is much appreciated by our staff. We already have the impression that they are part of our big family.”

New menus on April 10

On April 10, the Food Services will launch a brand new menu focused on equity, diversity and inclusion. “No matter your religion or beliefs, you will find a meal that suits you.”

Photo Bélinda Raîche

25 Canadian Forces Supply Depot

SENDS DONATIONS TO UKRAINE

|Yves Bélanger, Servir

For nearly a year, Canada, like many countries around the world, has regularly sent military equipment to the Ukrainian army, which is trying to repel the Russian invader. What many may not know is that the sending of these donations is largely done by the 25th Canadian Forces Supply Depot (25 CFSD), located at the Montreal Garrison.

Apart from ammunition and vehicles, the 25 CFSD is one of the units that has greatly contributed to the sending of military equipment to Ukraine. “Among other things, we sent spare parts for the M777 and Leopard vehicles, sleeping bags, winter clothing, helmets, rations and communication equipment,” said Anik Lefebvre, operations officer, at 25 CFSD.

A lot of equipment has been shipped by C17 and Hercules to Eastern Europe, Poland, by sea from the port of Montreal and by air from Trenton over the past few months. “So far, we have sent no less than 35 40-foot containers by ship and more than 125 plane pallets of materials and equipment.”

While preparing these shipments, the 25 CFSD team continues to respond to requests from various units of the Canadian Armed Forces. According to Ms. Lefebvre, things are still going very well. “Despite everything, we manage to process requests within an average of 48 hours.”

The Reserve collaborates

She mentions that last fall, various Reserve units helped out the 25 CFSD team during this active period. “We had a very good collaboration with the 4  Intelligence Company and the 34th Canadian Brigade Group who assigned personnel for four weeks to support this line of effort. For example, they helped us prepare winter clothing by removing the Canadian Army crests on the various garments.”

Ms. Lefebvre concludes by recalling that despite the extra work imposed by the situation, the members of the 25 CFSD team are happy to contribute in their own way to the war in Ukraine. “They are very proud because they realize the importance of what their work brings to Ukrainians. It gives them a real sense of satisfaction.”

Many vehicle parts, clothing and various materials have already been sent to the Ukrainian military.

Photo: courtesy

THE SCORE PROGRAM

will help you make better choices

|Yves Bélanger, Servir

Cpl Katia Danis-Lemay, Imagerie Saint-Jean

Started in 2015, the Score program aims to offer healthier snacks to users of the Saint-Jean Garrison. Officially launched by the Health Promotion team on March 28 at the Mega rotunda, it will provide you with valuable advice for adapting your snacks to your needs.

Marie-France Brunelle, Health Promotion Specialist, recalls that it was at the request of the Commandant of the Canadian Forces Leadership and Recruit School (CFLRS) that the Health Promotion team looked at the content of vending machines in 2013. “In 2015, Brigadier-General Dave Abboud wanted the School’s candidates to have access to a healthier food offer when it came time to have a snack.” She adds that this project was perfectly integrated with the BALANCE strategy, which promoted physical performance among members of the Canadian Armed Forces.

Ms. Brunelle explains that her ex-colleague, Valérie Gauthier, worked very hard on this project. A tool has also been created to select, according to specific criteria, the foods likely to be offered. “This tool allowed us to identify food products with less trans fat, saturated fat, salt and sugar.”

Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic has postponed the launch of the project. However, several snacks such as chips, chocolate bars and soft drinks have been replaced in vending machines to make way for energy bars, baked chips and snacks such as hummus, mixed nuts or mini tuna or chicken flakes preserves.

Providing help to make the right choices

During the launch, the Health Promotion team showed off the new look of Compass Group vending machines. In addition to being attractive, the machines have a small food guide. “People can now choose the snack or beverage that best suits their needs, depending on whether the food is consumed before or after a workout, if it’s for a craving or if they need something more substantial.”

Ms. Brunelle concludes by recalling that even if the products offered in vending machines are less harmful to health than those formerly offered, they will never replace a good meal. “A healthy and balanced diet is essential for maintaining good health.”

Innovative project

Present at the launch of the Score program, Colonel Serge Ménard, Commander of the 2nd Canadian Division Support Group, declared that his unit supports this program, an important ally of the recent Total Health and Wellness Strategy. “This type of project aims to improve the health of all Defence employees. Food is the central bridge of the CAF strategy which aims to improve our operational capacity.”

For his part, Lieutenant-Colonel Chung Wong, Commandant of the Canadian Forces Leadership and Recruit School recalled that he was a Major at CFLRS at the time the project originated. “I am happy to be here as a Commandant to launch the program. The latter is essential because often, our candidates have little time to eat and the vending machines will offer them a better source of food than before.”

A tasting of different products offered in the vending machines took place at the end of the event.

Colonel Serge Ménard, Commander of the 2nd Canadian Division Support Group, was present for the inauguration of the Score program.

In a few days, the vending machines will all be dressed in the image of the Score program.

THE 3 CSU supports CAF operations

|Yves Bélanger, Servir

Located at the Montreal Garrison, the 3 Canadian Support Unit (3 CSU) is responsible for generating specialized supply capacities to support the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) in operation theatres. Its workforce consists of 92 CAF members and 22 civilian employees.

The unit is under the command of the Canadian Forces Joint Operational Support Group, an essential component of the Canadian Joint Operations Command, which is responsible for all deployments.

Lieutenant (Navy) Monika Pintolee, System Control Officer and Public Affairs Representative at the 3 CSU, explains that the role of the unit is to provide support for large and small deployed missions.

“This third line support includes tasks such as consolidation, inspection, packaging and equipment shipping. The latter can be weapons, night vision goggles or maritime containers.”

These tasks can be carried out by the 3  CSU as part of the opening of new theatres, the support of the contingents already deployed, periodic rotations or mission closings. “For the opening of new theatres, we provide reception capacities to receive equipment such as building warehouses on site.”

The 3 CSU is also responsible for providing expertise in support of operations and exercises. “We offer technical training specific to each mission.”

During a mission, an inspection team of the 3 CSU will go on site to ensure the compliance of the equipment sent. “It can also provide expertise in the matter via technical assistance.”

When a mission ends, the 3 CSU deploys a mission withdrawal team to reduce the material imprint of the mission. “When closing an operation, a team also goes on site to check the equipment in the theatre. It also packs and re-expose articles in Canada.”

Who can work at 3 CSU?

Several types of trades are represented within the 3 CSU. “We have logistics officers, equipment management technicians, vehicle technicians, traffic technicians, human resources administrators, administrators of financial services and infantry members.”

Lt(N) Pintolee adds that the CAF members of the 3 CSU embody the values and the mentality of the unit motto: Agir. “As a high level of preparation, we expect all our members to be able and competent to deploy following a short notice.”

The most recent deployment of members of the 3rd Canadian Support Unit was to Operation IMPACT in Kuwait.

Photo : courtesy

20 years of service in the CAF

It’s back in 2003 that Lieutenant-Colonel Mohamad Ali Shamas enlisted in the Canadian Armed Forces.

He chose to make a career as a logistics officer. “I had studied business administration. Liking to take up challenges in multiple facets, I told myself that a job as a logistics officer was all suitable for me.”

Over the years, LCol Shamas has participated in various operations abroad, notably in Afghanistan, Kuwait and Iraq.

A short history of the 3 CSU

|Master-Corporal Charles Lemieux and Corporal-Chief Enass al-Ashi, 3 CSU

The 3 Canadian Support Unit (CSU) was created during the Cold War, on December 1st, 1989, in Lahr, Germany. It was then under the command of the Canadian European Forces (CEF). At the time, the unit was known as the 3 Canadian Support Group (3 CSG) and was regrouping the 35 Dental Unit, the CEF Postal Unit and the 311th Advanced Mobile Support Unit.

In 1992, the closure and repatriation of the CEF suspended the mandate of the 3 CSG whose last mission dates back to the SCIMITAR Operation, in Qatar, which supported the operations of the CF-18 hunters during the Gulf War.

The participation of the 3 CSG in peacekeeping missions continued with several distinctions.

In 2006, the 3 CSG command was transferred to the Canada

Operational Support Command and its name was changed for the 3rd Canadian Support Unit. During the same year, 3 CSU received the Chief of the Defence Staff Commendation.

Since 2012, the 3 CSU has been under the command of the Canadian Forces Joint Operational Support Group (CFJOSG), an essential component of the Canadian Joint Operations Command (CJOC), responsible for all deployments. The mandate of the 3 CSU continues to the various international missions in progress such as REASSURANCE Operations in Europe, IMPACT in the Middle East and PRESENCE in West Africa. AGIR

Members of 3 USC are busy inspecting a large number of modular tents sections used on Operation LASER and Exercise Ready Posture.

Members of the 3 Canada Support Unit supporting operations in Kuwait.

Photo: courtesy

Photo: courtesy

Chief Warrant Officer François Brunet and Lieutenant-Colonel Mohamad Ali Shamas, respectively Sergeant Major and Commander of the 3 Canada Support Unit.

Photo : courtesy

A great success for the first edition!

The first Salon des vétérans, which took place on March 11 at the premises of the Royal Canadian Legion 79 Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, was a success. The event was an initiative of the Veterans Transition Network, the Quebec Veterans Foundation, the Montreal Area Military Family Resource Centre, the organizations Cheval pour Mieux Vivre and Forum de Respect, as well as UN-NATO Canada. It also brought together 17 other organizations whose expertise and programs largely meet the needs of military men and women, retired or active, and their families. The next edition of the event is scheduled for next fall.

SCAN Seminar: preparing for your release from the Canadian Forces

Active military members are invited in May to attend the SCAN Seminar. The event will answer their questions and help them prepare for their release. This conference will bring together all the stakeholders directly or indirectly related to the transition, whether it is chosen or not: the release section, pension, financial planning, insurance, legal issues, orientation, recognition of acquired competencies, the transition to the civilian labour market, etc. The SCAN will allow you to obtain a lot of information to consider for a possible release, but above all will give you the opportunity to meet all the experts in one place. SCAN will also have a component for CAF members being released for medical reasons, since many differences apply to their situation.

The SCAN will take place on May 2 and 3 at the Royal Military College Saint-Jean (Dextraze Pavilion). It will also be possible to participate in TEAMS.

To register: svcpersOSPStJean@forces.gc.ca or 450-358-7099 # 7308

Reimbursement grants for summer camps

This year, Support Our Troops marks the 10th anniversary of the National Summer Camp Program, which offers eligible serving military families the opportunity to receive grants to send their children to an accredited summer camp of their choice.

In 2023, camp grant applications can be made online starting March 20. Please note that Support Our Troops gives priority to first-time applicants.

Thanks to the generosity of Canadians donors, Support Our Troops sends nearly 400 children to camp each summer. By attending a camp, children have the opportunity to feel like they belong and feel more in control of their lives.

Happy 100th birthday,HMCS Donnacona !

To commemorate HMCS Donnacona's creation on March 14, 1923, members of the Ship’s company conducted a Colours ceremony at Montreal City Hall, hoisting the Centennial flag over the city. Numerous dignitaries were present, including members from City Council and Commodore Marta Mulkins, former Commander of Naval Reserve.

The HMCS Donnacona thus honour a century of service by citizen sailors in Montreal, from the original Montreal half-company of the Royal Canadian Navy Volunteer Reserve in 1923, to HMCS Cartier and HMCS Montreal at the outbreak of the Second World War, to the recommissioned HMCS Donnacona in 1943, which formally combined all English and French members into one unit.

Photo: Facebook HMSC Donnacona

Join the celebrations for Ramadan

As part of Ramadan, the Saint-Jean Garrison Chaplaincy invited Montreal Imam Rafik Sakate to preside over the hour of Muslim prayer on Friday, March 31 and April 7, 14 and 21, from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. The ceremonies will take place in room D-105. Note that if there are more than 15 people present, the prayer will take place in the chapel.

Make great deals with EncanFNP

EncanFNP.ca is a website that presents surplus inventory of non-public property belonging to the 2nd Canadian Division, in view of a possible auction. Furniture, electronic devices, sports accessories are among the items that are regularly put up for sale.

These sales take place through a silent auction. Thus, the offer made by potential buyers is secret. On the appointed day, the bidding is open and the item for sale goes to the highest bidder. In the event of a tie, buyers are contacted to be offered a chance to raise their bid.

Enjoy Canadian Film Day

As part of Canadian Film Day on April 19, the Saint-Jean Garrison Personnel Support Programs are pleased to invite CAF members, civilian Defence employees, volunteers and members of the PSP Plan to a day filled with film screenings.

The event will be held in the theaters of the O'Mega Mess. For the occasion, salty snacks and beverages will be offered free of charge at the 4:30 p.m. and 6:45 p.m. performances. Bar service will also be available from 4 p.m. for those who wish to purchase beverages and snacks.

Here is the screening schedule:

Room 1 (19 places) Room 2 (37 places) On the mess' screens

12 p.m. Et si jamais

The F Word Louis Cyr: l’homme le plus fort du monde

4:30 p.m. L’Arracheuse de temps Bon cop, bad cop (English version) Bon cop, bad cop (French version)

6:45 p.m Louis Cyr : l’homme le plus fort du monde You are here: a come from away story Red Snow (English version)

On the agenda

Blood collect

May2 – 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Saint-Jean Garrison – Mega Building

Open to everyone

Help Héma-Québec reaches its goal of 60 donations during this collect. Each year, this organization delivers more than 800,000 biological products of human origin to hospitals in Québec.

Information: 1-800-343-7264

Tea tasting

The members of the Saint-Jean Garrison messes

have their Mega!

On March 16, after the annual general meeting of the Mess Patriote, members had the pleasure of discovering a product specially created for them. It is Ta Méga, a microbrewery beer that will be exclusively distributed in the three messes of the Saint-Jean Garrison.

“Personnel Support Programs collaborated with the Patriote mess committee to complete this project,” explains Mario Pronovost, mess manager.

A few years ago, Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu proclaimed itself a Garrison Town because of the military presence that has endured since the construction of its first fort in 1666. “By featuring the Jean-Victor Allard building, which is the emblem of the garrison, Ta Méga beer reminds our members that they belong to this long military tradition. They can be proud to contribute to our local military history!” concludes Mr. Pronovost.

On the agenda

April 22, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. 18 years and over, spouse and children of military personnel and next of kin of the military member Free

The Absence Support Group of the Montreal Area Military Family Resource Center is hosting a tea tasting workshop. This activity is an opportunity for people to connect and share their tips and experiences in deploying a military member, while enjoying a variety of delicious teas. Registration: before April 21

Information and registration

Monday, April 10 – hour to be determined

Location to be determined

For children of military families (5 years and under)

Give reading as a gift to your child. By registering for the program, a book will be sent monthly to your home, depending on the language chosen (English or French). The program ends in June 2023.

Mario Pronovost, Mess Manager, Major Kevin Bellefontaine, Lieutenant Étienne Cameron, Captain Daniel Boislard, Captain Melissa Fortin, Captain Jean-François Blondeau-Forget, Captain Annie Boyer and Major Shona Couturier were present when the product was presented to the members.

ALWAYS THERE for

the Estrie soldiers and their families!

|Yves Bélanger, Servir

For already two years, Catherine Sévigny has been the service promotion officer in Estrie for the Military Family Resource Centre (MFRC). Her role? Offer a variety of services to active and retired CAF members, as well as members of their families.

Ms. Sévigny explains that the Estrie soldiers and their families have access to almost all the same services as those living in the Montreal region. “In fact, there are

just daycare services that we cannot offer since we have no premises in the region.”

However, the Estrie CAF members who have activities in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu or Montreal have access to already existing daycare. “We also redirect our people to resources available in Estrie.”

For their part, psychosocial services are accessible at all times for the CAF members and their families. “They can address our contractual

Take advantage of the activities available to you!

The Military Family Resource Centre offers activities in Estrie for the CAF members (Regular Force and Reserve), veterans and family members.

On March 18, several of them went to the Au bec sucré sugar shack in Valcourt. “They took advantage of a traditional sugar shack, in a magical setting!”Exceptionally, the activity took place in the evening to reach young reservists as much as families. “The children were able to slide outside under lights, in a simply exquisite atmosphere,” explains Ms. Sévigny.

counsellor in Estrie. It is also possible to meet our counsellors from the Montreal Region in videoconference. It works in the same way as telemedicine.” Estrie veterans and their families have access to art therapy. “This activity is very popular, especially with women.”

Information: info.crfm@forces.gc.ca

450 358-7099 #7955 (SaintJean) #2349 (Sherbrooke)

450-462-8777 #6810 (SaintHubert

The presence of Adèle Photography also made a lot of happy people since she immortalized all these beautiful moments. “A mother explained to us that she rarely appears in the photos of her family, because it is her who takes them. She was therefore delighted to be able to bring back memories of her whole family together.”

Ms. Sévigny recalls that these activities allow people to have a good time with family, consolidate links and exchange with other members of the military community. “Imagine how much these photos will be precious for families when the military parent is going on a mission or training. This is where they will make sense!”

Notice to the interested parties, this spring, the MFRC plans a picnic and flower-picking on a farm in Saint-Elie.

In mid-March, the MFRC invited the Estrie CAF members and their family to a traditional sugar shack.

Photo: MFRC

NEXT MFRC ACTIVITIES

Catherine Sévigny

Organize your meals in order to eat well

Breakfast

• The night before, cut vegetables and fruits to make an omelette and a smoothie in the morning

• Cook quick recipes, like breakfast muffins in a cup or smoothies.

• Prepare lunches in advance, such as breakfast cookies or burritos, and put them in the fridge or freezer.

Supper

• Make sure to do a good planning of your meals for the week.

|Marilyn Duchesne, Specialist, Health Promotion

Do you feel like you are always on the run at mealtimes? Are you discouraged by having to cook dinner on the way home from work with the hungry and impatient children? Would you like to start the day on the right foot with a nutritious breakfast? Here are some tips to be more efficient in preparing your meals for the week! Above all, do not forget to enjoy eating good home-cooked meals. This is the key to motivate yourself to prepare your meals!

• Favor the variation of certain recipes to save time when cooking food and avoid food waste. For example, cook a whole chicken on Sunday, use the meat to make fajitas on Monday, and freeze the rest for a chicken stir-fry later in the week. Do the same with the vegetables. For example, make popcorn cauliflower as an accompaniment to a meal, eat them raw as a snack, and make a puree for another meal of the week.

• Take time on the weekend to get ahead of the meal prep for the week. With some appliances, it is possible to prepare several recipes at the same time, without increased supervision. The slow cooker can be your ally.

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SMOOTHIE BOWL RECIPE

AN ADVENTURE

marked by emotions and beautiful encounters

|Yves Bélanger, Servir

From February 16 to March 4, 56 snowmobilers covered 4,500 km on ancestral territories located in Quebec as part of the very first Expédition Premières Nations (First Nations Expedition). Everyone came back delighted with the experience.

The group set off from the Attikamek community of Manawan to visit 16 other Aboriginal communities. The adventure ended in Uashat mak Mani-Utenam, near Sept-Îles.

Rangers share their expertise

Chief Warrant Officer Mathieu Giard, group Sergeant Major at the 2nd Canadian Ranger Patrol Group (2 CRPG), says a dozen Rangers took part in the expedition, which had 56 participants. “Of this number, there were nine Aboriginal Rangers, seven men and two women.”

For the unit, this was a great way to validate organizational capabilities.

The experience of a lifetime

Corporal Patrick Brunette, of the 34th Service Battalion, returned delighted. “It's the experience of a lifetime! It is difficult to describe the grand way in which we were welcomed in each of the communities. Some waited a long time in the bitter cold to be sure of being there when we arrived.”

Today, his head is full of wonderful stories to tell. “We were treated to delicious feasts, not to mention the touching testimonials that were given to us. It was sometimes very moving. I have created many links with these people and I intend to see them again. I also had a lot of invitations to go fishing eventually.”

“Among other things, our Rangers were able to test their navigation and driving techniques in a still unknown territory.”

The presence of the Rangers was very useful in providing first aid in the event of injury or discomfort to snowmobilers. “We had an Air Medic team following the convoy. However, while waiting for their arrival on the scene, it was our members who were able to treat the snowmobilers.”

The Rangers were also in great demand to carry out repairs on snowmobiles that broke down. “Several times our members have been told by participants that if they hadn't been there, they wouldn't have been able to continue the ride.”

CWO Giard explains that when the convoy arrived in the communities, several Aboriginal people were outside to welcome them and celebrate. “This adventure allowed the various Aboriginal nations to exchange with each other and develop ties. We had some very good times. It was very spiritual.”

Photo: Facebook Rangers

Seventeen Aboriginal communities were visited during this adventure.

Photo: Facebook Patrick Brunette

Corporal Patrick Brunette with Clara Napash in Chisasibi in Baie-James.

MOVING to find balance

hand, she has less affinity with swimming. “Honestly, I tried several times with great hope, but without success.” She says she is persevering and enduring. “My greatest weakness is rather discipline, especially in the dark and cold winter months.”

She maintains that it is when she has a very clear and defined goal like an upcoming competition that she is most successful in following a plan to achieve her goals. “I'm also lucky to have a good coach who meets my needs through my training plan and who supports me when motivation is less present.”

For Lt(N) Leblanc, the practice of sport is essential in her life. “It allows me to regain my balance when I feel the stress rising. It also helps me reflect on my action plans both professionally and personally.”

Lt(N) Leblanc continues by mentioning that the practice of sport is excellent for her mental health. “It really allows me to put things into perspective, clear my head and see more clearly in my decision-making.”

Training effect

Lt(N) Leblanc says being regularly active has positively influenced her children, now ages 7 and 11. “They have developed an interest in sports. My daughter does triathlon, among other things, and my son, BMX. They are both very active. They also enjoy participating in family activities that are related to physical activity.”

She adds that setting a good example for those close to her is a real motivation. “I am proud to see that they will develop healthy lifestyle habits. In addition, they are always there to encourage me when I want to take on new challenges and they do not hesitate to join me in taking them on.”

|Yves Bélanger, Servir

Everyday life brings its share of challenges, whether at work or at home. For Lieutenant (Navy) Martine Leblanc, of the Regional Cadet Support Unit (East), the best way to ensure a good balance is to exercise and make good food choices on a regular basis.

It was with the birth of her first child, 11 years ago, that she really adopted a healthy and active lifestyle. “I practice sports as often as possible. I have my favourites according to the seasons like alpine ski touring in the winter and paddle boarding in the summer. However, I organize myself and adapt to continue cycling and running throughout the year.

She would have liked to participate in duathlons or triathlons. On the other

Eat well

As for her diet, Lt(N) Leblanc admits to paying some attention to it by making good choices. “I don't follow any particular diet. Instead, I try to opt for varied meals, made up of healthy foods that the whole family likes.”

She says she tries to be as balanced as possible in her meal choices, without going overboard. “I personally find that being too strict can become unhealthy,” she concludes.

In winter, Lieutenant (Navy) Martine Leblanc loves to go alpine ski touring.

Photo: courtesy

BETWEEN RUGBY AND POWERLIFTING

|Yves Bélanger, Servir

Who said women weren't strong and didn't like contact sports? Private Emmanuelle Tassy-Bunyan, a human resources clerk with the 34 Service Battalion, is one of those proving this wrong. For the past few years, the reservist has had rugby and powerlifting at the top of the list of her favorite sports.

It was the practice of rugby that brought Pte Tassy-Bunyan to powerlifting. “I started rugby in 2016. One day, I was tackled badly during a match. It hurt my ego deeply!”

She therefore decided to become stronger so as not to relive this bad experience. “Initially, I was doing bodybuilding to become a better rugby player. Then I fell in love with this discipline! I decided to practice a strength sport with proper training and, in 2019, I discovered powerlifting.”

From the first year, she began to face other strong women in competitions. Today, she participates in national competitions and is ranked 4th among women under 84 kg by the Quebec Powerlifting Federation.

To achieve this, the reservist devotes at least eight hours a week to training. “I practice two hours, four times a week.” She explains that it is sometimes difficult to train at a high level while pursuing a full-time civilian profession in addition to being a part-time reservist. “The days can be very long.”

Pte Tassy-Bunyan mentions that it takes a lot of patience to become a good powerlifter. “It takes time to gain strength. When you see a very strong person, it's important to remember that it took them years and years to get

there. It's important to leave your ego at the door and do the training right to get results, otherwise it can lead to injuries.”

A 500-pound deadlift

She says that her greatest achievement is to hold the title of the heaviest deadlift ever performed by a woman in the tested history of powerlifting in Quebec, regardless of age and weight. “I am the first and only Quebecer to have performed a 500 lb deadlift. Thanks to that, I hold the provincial record in this category.”

Her biggest challenge is her work on the bench. “I still have work to do on that side.” She goes on to explain that it is also difficult to lose weight before a competition to be classified in the right category. “If this weight loss is not done properly, it can lead to a significant decrease in strength.”

Rugby

Pte Tassy-Bunyan started playing rugby at McGill University. Today, she performs with the Town of Mount-Royal Rugby (TMR Rugby) women's team. “I would like to see women's rugby develop within the Canadian Armed Forces. For sure, I would join the Montreal area team.”

She says she likes the fact that this sport is physically tough. “Rugby is nonstop cardio. If practiced correctly, it can really get you in shape. For my part, I literally fell in love with this sport.”

Photo: courtesy

Private Emmanuelle Tassy-Bunyan plays for Town of Mount-Royal Rugby women’s team.

Photo: courtesy

Private Emmanuelle Tassy-Bunyan during her participation in the Canadian Powerlifting Championships held in Vancouver in February.

A GAME THAT PUTS INTO PRACTICE

military tactics

|Yves Bélanger, Servir

An Airsoft Club has just been founded by and for officer cadets and naval cadets from the Royal Military College Saint-Jean (RMC Saint-Jean). It already has 22 members who have a lot of fun getting together to perform realistic simulations of military combat.

Officer Cadet Benjamin Simard is the President of the Airsoft Club. As soon as he arrived at RMC Saint-Jean last year, he proposed the creation of such a recreation club. “I had been doing it for a while and there were already students who practiced this activity outside the institution. So we started to meet and put in place the structures of an official club.”

OCdt Simard, who is in his second year of studies at RMC Saint-Jean, has high hopes for the Airsoft Club next year. “As soon as school starts in August, the club will be established. I'm sure we'll be able to get even more followers.”

For him, Airsoft is an excellent activity for future officers who can put into practice the combat strategies and concepts acquired as part of their military training.

Compressed air guns dedicated to Airsoft are loaded with 6 millimetres plastic microbeads. “For safety, each player must wear goggles and have the lower face covered.”

He explains that compared to paintball, Airsoft offers much more realistic weapons. “Paintball is more like an arcade game. Games are played quickly. It's a bit the same with the laser tag,” he says.

Weekly meetings

Airsoft Club members meet on a weekly basis. “At this time of year, meetings are held indoors. We take advantage of these moments to develop a team bond and share our learning.” In groups of two to four people, participants practice, among other things, how to enter an enemy building and how to act once inside. “Others learn to keep guard well.”

The club plans to make four to five annual outings to gaming sites in the Montreal area.

Realistic weapon replicas

Players possess various weapons, which are replicas of weapons used by different military forces throughout time and the world. “One of our members uses a weapon and a protection kit inspired by those used during the Vietnam War. I have a more modern kit. My weapon is a replica of the C-7 automatic rifle that we use in the army.”

It costs between $4,000 and $5,000 to get protective gear and weapons. “If you don't want to buy the equipment, you can rent it when you go training in places dedicated to Airsoft.”

Among the members of the club, some have more than one weapon. “It is therefore possible for members to borrow one for practices,” says OCdt Simard.

Please note that only officer cadets and naval cadets can join the club.

Airsoft is an activity in which participants can practice combat strategies.

Photo: OCdt Eleonore De-ChandeloupRMC Saint-Jean

THE COLLEGE GAMES

are born

|Yves Bélanger, Servir RMC

Each year, the graduating cohort of Royal Military College Saint-Jean (RMC Saint-Jean) must organize a weekend sports competition. Their mission is to design an event that will get attendees moving while promoting campus life. This year, it took place on March 18 and 19 and was officially named the College Games.

Samuel Grenier, physical education coordinator teacher at RMC Saint-Jean, says this unique experience allows fourth-year students to work on a common project to practice and improve the leadership skills acquired during their studies. “By the same time, it contributes to an active and stimulating student life for the entire college community.”

The Personnel Support Programs teacher-coordinators responsible for the group provided the tools and guidelines necessary for the development, planning and execution of the event. “The physical education classes allowed them to have structured meetings, during which they assigned the roles to each one. They also tracked the weekly tasks according to the schedule, while experimenting with the potential activities of the competition.

The official name

Officer Cadet Laurier Valcourt, who worked on the project, explains that throughout the winter semester, the graduates had the task of creating

and planning the event as a whole. “This year, we created the concept of College Games. The idea was greatly appreciated and our superiors decided to use it for years to come,” he says proudly.

He goes on to mention that the event will take place under the theme of fun games. “These are games that are often played in elementary school or in the playground.”

OCdt Valcourt maintains that by taking up the concept of the College Games, the students wish to create a major competition representing the establishment. “We want to encourage all students to move and have fun by participating in activities that are more focused on team spirit.”

The 2023 edition

On March 18 and 19, 16 teams of 15 players competed in this first edition. It should be noted that a few CAF members from RMC Saint-Jean joined the teams. “Each team had a separate name and logo. Several sets were used for the occasion. The games took place in the gymnasium, in the swimming pool and on the squash courts, among other places.”

On Saturday, all participants were invited to a festive evening. “The finals took place on Sunday. It was the Raw Dog team that won the first edition of the College Games.”

The PSP offers you…

The PSP offers you…

The Personnel Support Programs team in the Montreal region offers a wide range of services to members of the military community and citizens. Enjoy!

Supervised climbing

If you want an introduction to climbing or improve your climbing techniques, the Recreation Department of the Saint-Jean Garrison offers a course adapted to your needs as of April 13.

A team of experts will accompany the participants and the equipment will be provided on site. The courses will take place in the palestra of the sports centre. Note that children aged 5 to 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Costs are $60 for PSP Plan members and $90 for non-members.

There are two sessions of 10 one-hour lessons:

• Tuesday, from 11:45 a.m. to 12:45 p.m.

• Thursday from 11:45 a.m. to 12:45 p.m.

There is one session of 5 two-hour lessons:

• Wednesday, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., every two weeks

Registration before April 3, 2023

The new program is online

The Saint-Jean Garrison sports centre spring recreation program is now online. Do not hesitate to consult it to discover the many activities offered. There are a host of new features !

Come discover our facilities and services!

The Saint-Jean Garrison sports centre opens its doors to present you its facilities as well as the many, group lessons and services offered. Take the time to come and have a look at our climbing wall and our sports and outdoor store!

Schedule:

• Day reserved exclusively for CAF members, civilian employees of the Defence and members of the PSP Plan: Friday, March 31, from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m.

• For all: April 1 and 2, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Information : 450-358-7099 # 6171

Take advantage of reduced rates for the Plein Soleil day camp

At the Saint-Jean Garrison, the Plein Soleil day camp is back this summer and this time, it offers three camps: one generalist, one dedicated to sports and outdoors, and one focused on arts and cultural activities. The camp offers an enriching and entertaining recreational experience for children, in a safe and bilingual environment. The day camp offers its participants a daily educational and recreational program, without lodging. Outings are also on the program.

It will run from June 26 to August 18 and childcare will be available (for a fee).

Take advantage of the reduced rates that will be offered during the open house weekend at the sports centre:

• Day reserved exclusively for CAF members, civilian Defence employees and PSP Plan members: Friday, March 31, 3-9 p.m.

• For all: April 1 and 2, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Information : 450-358-7099 6171

Day camp counselors wanted

At Saint-Jean Garrison, the Plein Soleil day camp will offer three-day camps this summer for children aged 5 to 12 and the organizers are currently looking for dynamic young counselors. Do you want a stimulating, rewarding job where you can put your skills and creativity to work? The Plein Soleil day camp is ideal for you!

Discover

OFFRE

EXCLUSIVE / EXCLUSIVE OFFER

MARCH 31

FROM 3 P.M. TO 9 P.M.

APRIL 1 AND 2, 2023

FROM 10 A.M. TO 4 P.M.

GARNISON SAINT-JEAN / SAINT-JEAN GARRISON

MEMBRES PSP

UN CAMP GÉNÉRALISTE

5 À 12 ANS

Première semaine de camp GRATUITE + chandail gratuit

Les autres semaines, payez 115$ / semaine au lieu de 150 $

DEUX CAMPS SPÉCIALISÉS

8 À 12 ANS

SPORTS ET PLEIN AIR ARTS ET ACTIVITÉS CULTURELLES

Première semaine de camp à 35 $ au lieu de 150 $ + chandail gratuit

Les autres semaines, payez 150 $ / semaine au lieu de 200 $

NON-MEMBRES PSP (UNIQUEMENT MILITAIRES ET EMPLOYÉS MDN)

UN CAMP GÉNÉRALISTE

5 À 12 ANS

Payez 125 $ / semaine au lieu de 150 $ + frais chandail

DEUX CAMPS SPÉCIALISÉS

8 À 12 ANS

SPORTS ET PLEIN AIR ARTS ET ACTIVITÉS CULTURELLES

Payez 175 $ / semaine au lieu de 200 $ + frais chandail

DÉTAILS IMPORTANTS

Offre disponible seulement sur place à la réception du centre des sports lors de ces trois journées.

Places limitées Frais des sorties obligatoires et du service de garde en sus. Déductible d’impôts

PSP MEMBERS 25, chemin du Grand-Bernier Sud, Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, QC, J0J 1R0 (450-358-7099 #7262)

ONE REGULAR CAMP

5 TO 12 YEARS OLD

First week of camp FREE + free t-shir t

Other weeks pay $ 115 / week instead of $ 150

T WO SPECIALIZED CAMPS

8 TO 12 YEARS OLD

OUTDOOR SPORTS ARTS - CULTURAL ACTIVITIES

First week of camp at $ 35 instead of $ 150 + free t-shirt

Other weeks, pay $ 150 / week instead of $ 200

NON PSP MEMBERS (FOR MILITARY AND DND EMPLOYEES ONLY)

ONE REGULAR CAMP

5 TO 12 YEARS OLD

Pay $ 125 / week instead of $ 150 + t-shirt fee

T WO SPECIALIZED CAMPS

8 TO 12 YEARS OLD

OUTDOOR SPORTS ARTS - CULTURAL ACTIVITIES

Pay $ 175 / week instead of $ 200 + t-shirt fee

IMPORTANT DETAILS

Offer available only on site at sports centre reception during these three days. Limited