Servir - Vol. 29/No 07 – June 14, 2023

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

A new stage awaits them!

|Yves Bélanger, Servir

On May 19, there was a lot of excitement at the Royal Military College Saint-Jean (RMC Saint-Jean) as 21 Naval Cadets and Officer Cadets obtained their bachelor's degrees in international studies and 50 others obtained their college degree. The next day, the traditional end-of-year parade was presented in front of parents and guests.

“Today marks an important milestone in their lives as they continue their journeys to serve their country and protect the freedoms we hold dear,” said RMC Saint-Jean Commandant, Colonel Gaétan Bédard, during the ceremony of the convocation of degrees.

This year, the guest of honour was Lieutenant-General Jennie Carignan, Chief Professional Conduct and Culture in the Canadian Armed Forces. LGen Carignan was Commanding Officer of RMC Saint-Jean from 2013 to 2015.

The next morning, all the Naval and Officer Cadets gathered in the parking lot of the De Léry pavilion to hold the end-of-year parade. This time the guest of honour was General Wayne Eyre, Chief of the Defence Staff.

During the event, 17 bachelors received their commission as Officers. The other four will receive it later in the year.

Congratulations to the recipients!

In addition to the academic excellence awards presented at the convocation, various prizes and awards were also presented to graduates during the parade:

• Best improvement (fitness test): Ncdt Aarnev Mandhre

• Vanessa Chamberland Trophy (male): OCdt Liam Bronsema

• Vanessa Chamberland Trophy (female): OCdt Naomi Larocque

• Alumni Club Honorary Trophy: OCdt Ben Simard

• Best leadership for a preparatory student: OCdt Elie Martel-Dagenais

• Best Leadership for a 1st year student: OCdt Jeffrey Michaud

• General Sir Richard Turner Trophy: OCdt Naomi Larocque

• Award in memory of Patrick Joseph Anthony Cadieux and the sword of the Honourable Justice Matheson: OCdt Gabriel Faille

• Profession of Arms Award: OCdt Sara Wauthier

• Best graduate in the four pillars of the RMC Saint-Jean program: OCdt Jeremy Labbe

• Class of 1978 Trophy: Tracy Squadron

The Canadian Armed Forces ALI BABA'S CAVE

|Yves

Bélanger, Servir

Yves Bélanger, Servir

Did you know that the largest logistics unit in the country is located at the Montreal Garrison? This is the 25 Canadian Forces Supply Depot (25 CFSD).

The 25 CFSD is a unit under the Canadian Joint Operations Command. Its exterior area is 2 million square feet and its interior area is 1.6 million square feet. The unit has thousands of distinct products for Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) units in Ontario, Quebec and the Maritimes.

This distribution centre has the largest total area in Canada at 3.6 million square feet. The second-largest Canadian warehouse is that of the Amazon company which was recently built in Ottawa. The warehouse has 2.6 million square feet.

From the simple bolt of an armoured vehicle to rations, including weapons, vehicles, tents and aircraft parts, the 25 CFSD is always able to supply the troops. “We also serve operations that take place abroad,” explains Lieutenant-Colonel Jeremy Lajeunesse, Commanding Officer of the unit. He specifies that his unit has an inventory valued at $4.6 billion.

25 CFSD also has a site in the city of Laval. “We have the equivalent of 475 shipping containers in equipment there. This warehouse brings together the equipment necessary for temporary or semi-permanent camps, required for an approximate period of 6 to 24 months, such as shelter systems, generators, equipment to define the security perimeter. There is also equipment for setting up fairly robust camps,” says Chief Warrant Officer Louis Thivierge, Sergeant Major of 25 CFSD.

The 25 Canadian Forces Supply Depot is located at the Montreal Garrison and has about ten warehouses.

Photo: Courtesy

200,000 distinct products

The ten warehouses of the 25 CFSD located on the Montreal Garrison site are filled with items necessary for the proper functioning of the CAF. “In all, we have 200,000 separate products stored in our hangars,” says Commander Lajeunesse. To help understand the breadth of inventory, he explains that a Costco store has 3,000 different products.

“The ten buildings of 25 CFSD were installed there in 1942. The purpose was to supply equipment to the troops of the CAF on European soil during the Second World War. The location was ideal since it was located close to the Port of Montreal and near an airport,” explains CWO Thivierge.

The most imposing of the buildings on the site is called the Consol. It is the main warehouse for operations at the logistics level. It has 20 reception doors. From this location, the material arriving at 25 CFSD is sorted and routed to the appropriate storage location. Each item is scanned and a sophisticated computer system determines where it will be stored.

The most impressive section of the Consol is the one called the 60 footer. This name corresponds to the height of this space. It consists of 17 lanes with a length of 545 feet. There are no less than 50,000 pallet spaces. The most advanced techniques have been used to maximize storage capacities. “Materials that must be kept on pallets are placed in this space, such as operational uniforms, protective suits against nuclear, biological and chemical attacks, gas masks, boots, helmets, communication equipment, sleeping bags and others,” says CWO Thivierge.

A short story of 25 CFSD

25 Canadian Forces Supply Depot (25 CFSD) is the oldest logistics unit still active in Canada. It was in 1940 that the Canadian government decided to set up such an institution to establish a common depot in the country to contain technical equipment to support the operations of Canada overseas and allies such as the United Kingdom. On January 28, 1942, the first items passed through the doors of this warehouse.

It took little time for 25 CFSD to become a unique hub in the country in support of the military world, both for Canada and its allies, especially during national crises and deployments.

The 25 CFSD asserted itself first during the Second World War and that of Korea and, subsequently, during international conflicts (the Gulf War), disasters (the 1998 Ice Storm) or major events (the 1976 Olympics). The institution has been and remains today a major player, among many other organizations, which allows the Department of National Defence to stand out in support of the government.

Its reputation today is guaranteed by reliable and committed team members, both civilian and military, who, despite their differences, have worked together in support of Canadian Defence operations.

The 60-foot section is made up of 17 lanes, each 545 feet long. There are 50,000 pallet spaces.

The 25 Canadian Forces Supply Depot in 1945.

Photo: courtesy

The packaging experts

The least that can be said is that the employees of the 25 Supply Depot of the Canadian Forces are true packaging experts. All items that end up in the warehouses are carefully stored.

Great vigilance is also exercised when items or equipment are transported to a base, wing or Garrison in Canada, or on foreign soil. “We could send an egg abroad and I assure you that it would arrive intact at its destination!”, assures Chief Warrant Officer Louis Thivierge.

Weekly shipments to Ukraine

For more than a year, Canada has regularly sent military equipment to the Ukrainian army, which is trying to repel the Russian invader. 25 Canadian Forces Supply Depot (25 CFSD) handles the vast majority of these shipments. “About 90% of everything that is transported to this Eastern European country leaves from here,” reports Lieutenant-Colonel Jeremy Lajeunesse, Commander of the unit.

Spare parts for M777-Leopard vehicles, sleeping bags, military clothing, helmets, rations and communications equipment are among the items flown into Ukraine. “On average, we ship once a week there,” says Chief Warrant Officer Louis Thivierge.

This equipment was shipped by C17 and Hercules to Eastern Europe, to Poland, first by sea from the port of Montreal. “So far, we have shipped 150 20-foot shipping containers and 150 aviation pallets,” says LCol Lajeunesse.

The latter goes on to say that the employees of 25 CFSD feel great pride in the idea of sending equipment and items to Ukraine. “For them, it's a way of doing their part to help these allies who are currently going through difficult times,” says the unit Commander.

A team of nearly 200 people

Currently, 170 employees work at 25 Canadian Forces Supply Depot (25 CFSD). “In addition to the 150 civilian employees, we have about twenty CAF members in our service,” says Lieutenant-Colonel Jeremy Lajeunesse, Commander of the unit. He mentions that the Deputy Commander, Major Stephane Roberge, and he are the only Officers serving in the unit.

The main trades found within 25 CFSD are those of storekeepers, supply workers and movement technicians in material management.

Currently, about twenty positions are vacant within the unit. “We are looking for staff to fill storekeeper positions who can work in the warehouse, in the handling of equipment and materials. We are also looking for them in the inventory, and in the shipment of materials and equipment,” says LCol Lajeunesse.

Many products are shipped to Ukraine on a regular basis.

Lieutenant-Colonel Jeremy Lajeunesse and Chief Warrant Officer Louis Thivierge, respectively Commanding Officer and Sergeant Major of 25 Canadian Forces Supply Depot.

APPLY TO 25 CFSD

Mr. Mario Cerminaro, Storekeeper, works in the Material Order Consolidation section of the 25 Supply Depot. He has more than 44 years of service.

THE 438 THS contributes to training the elite of tactical aviation in Canada

|Captain Frédérique Rousseau, 438 Tactical Helicopter Squadron

MCpl Laura Landry, Imagery - 438 THS

Imagine you are a CH-146 Griffon or CH-147F Chinook helicopter pilot. You have just received the mission to go save a pilot who crashed his plane behind enemy lines. How are you going to do this? Who and what do you need to complete the mission? You are responsible for the success of this mission and the lives of the people involved.

Here is an example of a scenario that the candidates of the Advanced Tactical Aviation Course (ATAC) had to prepare and execute. Nine candidates from 1 Wing Royal Canadian Air Force and two from the Canadian Army* worked long days for a month to build complex missions, as air assault, strike coordination and reconnaissance, non-combatant evacuation, personnel recovery and fire support missions, in collaboration with the 4 Wing and the 1 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group.

Organizing this course required a great deal of preparation and extensive field analysis. Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Cold Lake, in Alberta, was chosen because of its large training ground and the presence of F-188 Hornet fighter jets, which took part in a few scenarios.

The ATAC started well before the flight phase. First there was a virtual academic phase, from February 20 to March 2nd, followed by a two-week Ground School, at CFB Valcartier, where the candidates prepared scenarios on paper. The flight phase, which applies

everything learned during the ground school, took place from April 1 to April 28, 2023, at CFB Cold Lake.

The 438 THS played a leading role

We tend to focus only on candidate pilots, but behind them are almost 250 people who have collaborated in the success of ATAC. Among these were about 60 members of the 438 Tactical Helicopter Squadron (438 THS). For example, Major Geoffrey Martin, Commander of the Advanced Tactics Flight, acted as course director, seven members acted as instructors and 18 maintenance technicians provided daily maintenance of the aircraft.

The Commanding Officer of 438 Tactical Helicopter Squadron, Lieutenant Colonel Stephane St-Onge, and Major Geoffrey Martin, Commanding Officer of the Advanced Tactical Flight, would like to warmly thank all the individuals who have invested many hours, either in logistics, aircraft maintenance, administration, and coordination with the various participants (4 Wing, 1 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group and American partners).

Thanks to the hard work of this great team, newly qualified Griffon or Chinook pilots are now considered the crème de la crème of tactical aviation in the country. ATAC is the pinnacle, if not the Top-Gun, of tactical aviation training in Canada. They are now Air Mission Commanders, excellent planners and managers of complex missions.

Photo: Sgt Robert Simard, logistique

After more than six years without an ATAC execution, it was high time to train new Air Mission Commanders and 1 Wing can finally say: mission accomplished!

* They were from the 3e Bataillon, Royal 22e Régiment, the 2nd Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment, the 403 Helicopter Operational Training Squadron and the 408, 430 and 450 Tactical Helicopter Squadrons.

Major Geoffrey Martin, Commander of the tactical squadron, and Lieutenant Colonel Stéphane St-Onge, Commander of the 438 Tactical Helicopter Squadron, were present at ATAC.

BRINGING HOPE

to bereaved military families

|Yves Bélanger, Servir

In 2011, a tragedy occurred in the life of Melisa Lesquir. Her military spouse, a Search and Rescue Technician, died in service. To get through this ordeal, she had the support of a volunteer from the HOPE Program. Today, Ms. Lesquir is calm in the face of the death of her husband. It is now her turn to accompany military families who have lost a loved one.

The HOPE program offers resources and an essential service to alleviate the loneliness and silent suffering of bereaved people. Peer support, based on listening and compassion, has a significant impact on the process of mourning and social reintegration.

When death strikes

A teacher by profession, Melisa Lesquir maintains that losing a spouse, brother, sister or child is a difficult step. “We may know that it can happen at any time, when it comes to a CAF member, we are never really ready to face such an ordeal.”

For her, the telephone discussions with the HOPE Program volunteer were a blessing. “This woman had also lost her military spouse and I

felt she understood what I was going through. She had a vital role in my healing.”

Aware of the good that the HOPE Program brought her, Ms. Lesquir also wanted to support people bereaved by the loss of a military member of their family. “I called officials and asked to be put on the waiting list to take the five-day training.” It was in 2015 that her volunteer role officially began.

Giving back

Melisa Lesquir explains that becoming a caregiver to bereaved military families has allowed her and still allows her to normalize her experience. “I also like being able to give back to others what I have received myself.”

She feels happy to be able to help the people she supports rediscover the meaning of life. “It feels good to be able to help others and help them through the ordeal of grief,” she says, adding that support is only done by phone and that everything is done anonymously.

Note that there is no time limit for using the support services. “When people's needs exceed our mandate, we have a list of organizations and services that allows us to properly refer them.”

To use the service: 1-800-883-6094 or hope-espoir@forces.gc.ca

Mélisa Lesquir has been a volunteer with the HOPE Program since 2015.

THE CADET PROGRAM OF CANADA

can go a long way!

|Captain Éric

Messier

, Unit Public Affairs Representative, Regional Cadet Support Unit (Eastern)

Frédéric Paris has several strings to his bow. A Police Officer with the SPVM (the city of Montreal police service), he is currently deployed with the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, MONUSCO. Also Commanding Officer of 687 Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron in Laval, he has the cadet organization tattooed on his heart!

Like his fellow members of the Cadet Instructors Cadre (CIC), Captain Paris leads a civilian career. He is a Police Officer with the SPVM and a supervisor in the metro section. He manages a large number of Police Officers, administratively and operationally. He also assumes, as a secondary function, the position of regimental Sergeant Major for the protocol activities of the SPVM.

His civilian duties gave him the opportunity to deploy with the United Nations. He left Canada in June 2022 and will be back in the next few days. He is part of the police team specializing in gender-based sexual violence and child protection. His job is to provide mentoring and training to Congolese Police Officers.

Deployments abroad are often an opportunity to discover local cultures and social practices that are very different from those we know. Capt Paris explains to us, among other things, that although we share the same language with the population of the Democratic Republic of Congo, certain practices are very different. Thus, even if it is very polite to call a man “sir” and a woman “madam” in our country, in the Democratic Republic of Congo, we will rather say “dad” and “mom”.

Backtrack

Born in Montreal, Capt Paris joined the Royal Canadian Air Cadets shortly after his twelfth birthday. He completed his program having achieved the rank of Warrant Officer First Class and held the position of

Cadet Commanding Officer. Since 1995, he has had the opportunity to get involved with the three elements represented in the program, namely the Army Cadets, the Royal Canadian Air Cadets and the Royal Canadian Sea Cadets. Capt Paris embodies the core values that support the Canadian Cadet Program, namely, Citizenship, Leadership and Physical Fitness

He lives a sense of duty and service on a daily basis, both in his civilian work and in his duties as a CIC Officer. When asked what impact an Officer like him can have on the young people who take part in the program, he replies: “The role and involvement of CIC Officers are very important for the youth and the future of our Canadian society. We teach cadets important values such as duty, loyalty, integrity, courage, stewardship and excellence, just as is expected of members of the Canadian Armed Forces.” With Officers like Capt Paris, we know that Canadian youth is in good hands!

During his deployment, he was able to count on his spouse, Captain Stéfania Cimmino, also a CIC Officer. She is also the interim Commander of 687 Squadron. When Capt Paris is asked what makes 687 Squadron unique, he replies without hesitation: “It’s almost a family. The formidable team of Officers, in collaboration with the parents' committee, offers the cadets enriching, stimulating and safe activities. This year, we did forest survival, rocket launches, a meritorious gala, glider flight, a presence at the Remembrance Parade, a visit to Quebec City, precision air rifle shooting and many others. The staff cadets are fantastic in transmitting to the youngest the notions of discipline, mutual aid, respect, well-being and pride.”

DISCOVER

CADET PROGRAM

DISCOVER MONUSCO

Captain Frédéric Parisis servicing as a Police Officer specializing in gender-based sexual violence and child protection during his deployment. Photo: courtesy

Captain Frédéric Paris, in 2022, in his duties as regimental Sergeant Major of the SPVM.

Photo: courtesy

HE BECAME THE NATIONAL PADRE of Veterans UN-NATO Canada

|Yves Bélanger, Servir

Resident of Granby, Pastor Michel Martin was named National Padre of the Veterans UN-NATO Canada on May 20.

It was in 1994 that Protestant Pastor Michel Martin decided to enlist as a Chaplain in the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF). “I had been linked to the 6e Bataillon, Royal 22e Régiment for a while. I went there regularly on a voluntary basis, because they did not have a Protestant Padre. So I decided to make my role official.”

In 2002, he became the Chaplain of the 34 Canadian Brigade Group. “I worked there until 2010, when I retired from military life.”

A life-changing deployment

The Veteran says that a deployment of a few weeks, carried out in 2007, in Afghanistan, literally changed the course of his life and proved to be the most difficult period of his entire life. “This is the year when there have been the most injuries and deaths in this country. Every day I was grieving and constantly shocked by the horribly mutilated bodies I was asked to bless. With my civilian work as a Minister, I had often rubbed shoulders with sick people and death, but that had nothing to do with the atrocities I saw there.”

Being a Padre, the Veteran never carried a weapon on him. “I had never felt more vulnerable than during these weeks of deployment.”

Upon his return to Canada, Michel Martin was no longer the same. “I had nightmares every night. I dreamed of being shot at. I woke up completely soaked. I was not well and I had more and more very serious dark thoughts. I believe God escaped me at the last moment.”

A new start

A few months after his return to the country, Michel Martin met a brother in arms who, in a way, allowed him to make a new start. “He saw straight away in my eyes that it was not right for me. He then told me that he would

pick me up the next morning to take me to a support organization for CAF members and Veterans, as well as to a meeting of the Veterans UN-NATO group in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu.”

The people there immediately accepted the Veteran. “They understood what I was going through and the specifics of operational stress injuries. They had been there too. They really supported me with encouragement, words on Messenger, and attentive listening. Little by little, I started to recover and to become almost functional again,” he says with a touch of humour.

Veterans UN-NATO Canada

In 2010, he officially joined the Veterans UN-NATO group in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu. The latter is intended for active or retired CAF members who have taken part in one or more UN or NATO missions. “I became the group's Padre.” A few years later, learning that a similar group was going to be created in the city of Granby, he asked to be transferred there.

The Veteran explains that being a Padre for Veterans UN-NATO Canada is much the same as being a Padre in a CAF unit. “We are there to listen to the members when they need it. Very often, my contacts are referred to me by concerned brothers and sisters in arms, by simple listening or by observation.” The group also participates in various annual events such as Remembrance Day and Battle of the Atlantic ceremonies.

Much appreciated for his work, the Veteran was quickly named Provincial Padre of Veterans UN-NATO Canada.

National Padre

Today, Michel Martin is convinced that he lived through his trials to better help his brothers in arms. “The fact that I went through the same path as them is reassuring for the Veterans who confide in me.” Although he will retain lifelong scars from his time in Afghanistan, the Padre is now at peace with himself.

On May 20, during the annual gathering of Veterans UN-NATO Canada held at the Abbey of Saint-Benoît-du-Lac for the blessing of the motorcycles, Michel Martin received his National Padre insignia. “I have been asked to represent the Padres of all Veterans UN-NATO Canada groups in the country. I gladly accepted! I feel capable of occupying such a position. For me, it is an interesting challenge that will allow me to continue what I was already doing at national and local level. Having a voice at the national level and being able to bring it God’s wisdom and not mine is an opportunity for me.”

VETERANS UN-NATO CANADA

Michel Martin (left) receiving the insignia of National Padre of Veterans UN-NATO Canada from the hands of Sylvain Bérard, National President of the group.

YOUR FAMILY has just arrived in the region?

|Yves Bélanger, Servir

Transfers are part of military life. Fortunately, the Montreal Region Military Family Resource Centre (MFRC) is there to make sure all of these changes go as smoothly as possible for the families involved.

Marie-Belle Meunier, Volunteer Services Officer, and Maude Laflamme, Community Integration Officer at the Montreal Region MFRC, indicate that they communicate with families even before they are transferred to our region in order to break the ice. “We are still receiving the list of families who will be moving shortly to settle here. We show them the services that we can offer them when they arrive in order to reduce their level of stress,” says Ms. Laflamme.

She mentions that over the years, she has seen families for whom moving, changing regions has become a real routine. “However, for others it is a nightmare. They don't know where to start.”

In addition to the hassle of moving, military spouses must also experience the stress of finding a job in their new region. “Fortunately, the MFRC offers job search assistance,” recalls Ms. Laflamme.

Marie-Belle Meunier adds that for military families arriving from across Canada to settle in the Montreal area, the language barrier can be a major stress factor. “The fact that we call them and talk to them about French learning courses is very reassuring for them.”

Being both military wives, they explain that they know the challenges of a move. “For the spouses we call, this is a reassuring element. People are

happy to talk with someone who has experienced the same thing,” says Meunier.

Breaking the isolation

Once the families have moved to the Montreal area, the doors of the MFRC are wide open to them. “Often, I invite spouses to participate in volunteer mornings or other activities. It’s a great way to get out of the house, develop friendships and make contacts,” recall Ms. Meunier.

She goes on to say that she regularly visits the families who live in the residential housing unit sector of Saint-Hubert, commonly known as PMQs. “We go for a walk or we organize an activity. It’s good for these people to break their isolation.”

She ends by mentioning that for children, the MFRC is also a great way to bond with others and develop friendships.

DISCOVER THE MFRC'S COMMUNITY INTEGRATION SERVICES

Marie-Belle Meunier, Volunteer Services Officer.

Photo: courtesy

Maude Laflamme, Community Integration Officer.

Photo: courtesy

MORE CAF MEMBERS SEEK MENTAL HEALTH CARE

|Yves Bélanger, Servir

The increased awareness over the years about mental health as well as the three years of the COVID-19 pandemic have had a significant impact on the number of requests for services made to the Mental Health Departments of the 41 Canadian Forces Health Services Centre – Saint-Jean (41 CF H Svcs C Saint-Jean).

Management of anxiety, symptoms of depression, family crises and problems at work are among the most frequent problems for which CAF members wish to consult at the medical clinics of the Saint-Jean and Montreal Garrisons. “It’s quite a reflection of what is going on within the civilian population. Depression, anxiety and adaptation disorders occupy a large place in terms of service requests,” explains Myriam Bouthillette, Manager of the Mental Health Department at the Saint-Jean Garrison. She explains that the number of service requests in her department has increased significantly over the past two years. “The pandemic has affected people's morale a lot. People are less and less flexible in life in general. Their level of tolerance to a multitude of things has greatly decreased and it is the opposite for anxiety. CAF members are no exception to the rule”.

She mentions that they therefore want to meet psychosocial workers to find tools that will help them get through this bad period more easily. “This is good news, because it means our people are getting on their feet faster. They do not necessarily wait to be at the end of the tether before taking action.”

She adds that more and more men want help with mental health. “It demonstrates that the male clientele is beginning to understand that asking for help at this level is not a sign of weakness.”

The clinic has already found some solutions

The waiting list is a challenge, but Myriam Bouthillette already has solutions. “For example, the team and I realized that there are a good number of cases of anxiety management. So we thought of inviting these people in a group session. It will be as effective as if we received each of these people individually. In addition, it can be very beneficial for them to see that other people are struggling with similar issues. The exchange between these CAF members will be very beneficial.”

A group pilot project is also to come, in particular with candidates from the Canadian Forces Leadership and Recruit School. “They too often experience the same type of difficulties. By creating groups, it will be easier to bring them help quickly.”

The Manager, who is a Social Worker, points out that the faster people experiencing psychosocial difficulties are taken care of, the easier it is to help them find solutions. “The risks of situations deteriorating to the point of generating crises are much reduced.”

If you are a CAF members and need help:

Saint-Jean Garrison Medical Clinic 450-358-7099 # 7798

Montreal Garrison Medical Clinic 514-252-2777 # 4668

34 Canadian Brigade Group Help line 1-844-423-4769

Canadian Armed Forces Member Assistance Program 1-800-268-7708

Operational Stress Injury

Social Support Program 1-800-883-6094

Unity is strength

Myriam Bouthillette explains that for several months, the team from the Mental Health Department has been collaborating with those from Health Promotion and Chaplaincy. “This allows us to optimize the quality of the services that we all offer. Our approaches are complementary, so collaboration allows us to build on the strength of each team to provide quality and comprehensive care. This collaboration also allows CAF members to be referred to the right service more quickly.”

She adds that the various chains of command also work in conjunction with her team. “We have great help and openness from them. That's good, because the more we work as a team, the more CAF members benefit.”

Mental health staff for the Montreal region

Saint-Jean Garrison

The Mental Health Department has 13 employees. They are assigned to two programs:

• Psychosocial Services, which have seven Social Workers, one CAF member and six civilian employees.

• General Mental Health Services which include a Psychiatrist (civilian employee), three nurses (two civilian employees and one military employee) and two psychologists (civilian employee).

Montreal Garrison

The Mental Health Department has five employees:

• A psychiatrist (civilian employee), a Psychologist (civilian employee), a Mental Health Nurse (civilian employee) and two Social Workers (civilian employee).

Regions (Sherbrooke, Rouyn, Hull, etc.)

They are served by the Saint-Jean and Montreal Garrisons.

A Social Worker by training, Myriam Bouthillette is the Manager of the Mental Health Department at 41 Canadian Forces Health Services Centre - Saint-Jean.

Photo: Yves Bélanger

PAYING HOMAGE to

fallen soldiers from the Eastern Townships

DOES

YOUR POOL pass the test?

|Maxime Brouillard, Specialist, Health Promotion

Summer is at our doors! It's time to bring out our bathing suits and inflate our floating toys to enjoy one of our favourite family hobbies: swimming at home!

Over the past few years, you may have spent a few dollars creating a zen, chic, urban or tropical vibe around your pool. Although the addition of a palm tree, a terrace or a waterfall can enhance your swimming experience, have you made sure that your pool is safe? To guide you, submit to the 10 mistakes game of the Quebec Lifesaving Society. Some rules will seem obvious to you, but others might surprise you!

In addition to the game, the site is full of important information to help you enjoy your pool safely. Happy summer and happy swimming!

|Gilles Samson, member of Royal Canadian Legion Branch 10 and ANAVETS Unit 318

Each year, members of Unit 318 of The Army, Navy and Air Force Veterans in Canada (ANAVETS) pay their respects to a Veteran who is buried in one of the Lennoxville area cemeteries, as well as to all members who have died within the past year. This year, this Veteran was Henry Langevin, the father of Keith Langevin, a member of Unit 318, buried in Saint-Antoine Cemetery.

A work of memory

During the ceremony, Bertand Lapointe presented Peter Goodin, President of Unit 318, with a list showing the names of 180 Veterans buried in the Malvern and Saint-Antoine cemeteries. Mr. Lapointe also counted and photographed the tombstones or markers and entered all this information on the list. This will be completed over time.

GUIDE

A dedicated volunteer, Mr. Lapointe visits all the cemeteries in the Eastern Townships and informs the members of the Eastern Townships Genealogy Society who do research and write the biographies of Veterans in the Eastern Townships. The resulting publications are deposited with Library and Archives Canada and the Banque et archives nationales du Québec.

RÉGION MONTRÉAL MONTREAL REGION

Since 2017, the military community can be proud to be able to count on the collaboration of the Eastern Townships Genealogy Society, Branch 10 and Unit 318 to pay tribute to the Eastern Townships Veterans.

The ceremony in tribute to Veteran Henry Langevin. From left to right: Linda Caron, National Vice-President of ANAVETS, Peter Goodin, President of Unit 318, Guy Marchessault, President of Branch 10, Bertrand Lapointe, Archivist at the Eastern Townships Genealogy Society, Brady Smith, 1st Vice-President of Unit 318, and Rachel Lacombe, Communications Director of the Eastern Townships Genealogy Society.

Photo: Gilles Samson

CFLRS musical band in the spotlight

This summer, the Canadian Forces Leadership and Recruit School (CFLRS) musical band will present various concerts. If you want to attend one of them, here is the schedule:

• July 1 - 6:55 p.m.: Canada Day, Gerry-Boulet Park, Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu

• July 13 - 6:30 p.m.: Honoré-Mercier Park, Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu (Iberville)

• July 19 - time to be confirmed: Verdun auditorium, Verdun

• July 20 - 6:30 p.m.: Gabriel-Marchand Park, Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu

• July 22 - 2:30 p.m.: Fort Lennox, Île-aux-Noix

• July 27 - 6:30 p.m.: Fort Chambly, Chambly

• August 6 - 1:30 p.m.: Trois-Rivières Grand Prix

• August 9 - time to be confirmed: UN Parade, Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu

• August 10 - 6:30 p.m.: Legion Games, Sherbrooke

• August 24 - 7 p.m.: Été Show, Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu

• August 27 - time to be confirmed: Boom de l’été (Summer Boom), Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu

For information: Christine.geoffrion@forces.gc.ca

Gagnez du temps !

Un service unique par notre personnel expert qui vous :

• Conseille à chacune des étapes de votre carrière et même après

• Sert là où vous servez et selon votre horaire

• Donne un service clé en main sans tracas

• Simplifie la vie lors de vos relocalisations

• Comprend et maîtrise votre réalité financière

• Offre des rabais et avantages exclusifs

Joignez la force de nos 7000 membres : ça ne trompe pas !

Save time and ensure your peace of mind

Our expert staff:

• Supports you at every stage of your career and even after

• Serves where you serve and on your schedule

• Provides a turnkey worry-free service

• Eases your relocation

• Deeply understands your financial reality

Offers exclusive discounts and benefits

Join the force of our 7000+ members, they can't be wrong!

facebook.com/caissedesmilitaires

Disponibles sur Messenger 418 677-2641

On n’est pas loin : Centre de services Desjardins Région de Montréal

Garnison Saint-Jean (Richelain) Succ. Bureau chef, C.P. 100

Nous sommes aussi à Ottawa, Bagotville et Shannon desjardins.com/caissedesmilitaires

Une heure avec nous, c’est garantir sa paix d’esprit

Photo : CFLRS

Electronic sports tournaments for young people

To mark the centennial of the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF), the Canadian Forces Morale and Welfare Services is partnering with Battlefy, the leading esports platform, to launch RCAF Games Mission.

Until July, community tournaments (FIFA23, NHL23, League of Legends, VALORANT and Marvel Snap) will take place on weekends. They are open to players of all skill levels and will offer prizes.

ARC Games Mission was designed especially for young people. It offers them an inclusive, open and safe space. Its objective is to enable them to acquire technological skills, to develop social ties and to encourage them to pursue higher education in science, technology, computer science and mathematics.

The Personal and BMO also joined the event. Each month, BMO will be streaming content on its “BMO NXT LVL” Twitch channel featuring the

winners of the previous month's tournaments, showcasing their talent and performance.

Visit the HMCS Donnacona Virtual Museum

As part of the 100th anniversary of the Royal Canadian Navy Naval Reserve, His Majesty's Canadian Ship Donnacona is offering a virtual museum showcasing its collection of artifacts, items and images. It tells the story of HMCS Donnacona from the creation of the Naval Reserve to this Centennial year. This portrait of the past 100 years of naval service was designed and produced under the direction of Sailor 1st Class (Ret'd) Karin-Ann Goral, Acting Sub-Lieutenant Richard Eiser and Isabelle Goral.

Thank you for your initiative!

Finding that the main entrance of the Saint-Jean Detachment - Canadian Forces Language School at Saint-Jean Garrison lacked summer colours, teachers Michael Hind and Alexis Audet invited about fifteen colleagues to decorate the concrete bins located on either side of the entrance. Recently, everyone gathered at lunchtime to plant beautiful flowers, an initiative that makes everyone who walks in this area happy.

Photo : courtesy

Photo : courtesy

A special evening for the candidates of the CFLRS

During the evening of June 2, 70 candidates from the Canadian Forces Leadership and Recruit School (CFLRS) took part in the Silent Disco organized by the Saint-Jean Garrison Recreation team. The event took place in Mess O’Mega as part of June, Recreation Month. Equipped with wireless headphones, the participants had a lot of fun dancing and performing “dance fights”.

On the agenda

Military Life 101 Workshop

Wednesday, June 21

6:45 p.m. to 8:45 p.m.

Location: to be determined

Next of kin and immediate family of a CAF member Free

The Montreal Region Military Family Resource Centre offers this workshop to better understand the military lifestyle as well as the services offered to military families. The workshop will be offered in French. Register before June 19.

Information: Saint-Hubert: 450-462-8777 # 6810

Summer activities for young people

From June 27 - according to the established schedule

Youth Community Integration Centre (Loft), Saint-Hubert

For children of CAF members (5 to 12 years old) Free

This summer, the Youth Community Integration Centre of the Montreal Region Military Family Resource Centre will be open for half-days (morning and/or afternoon), to stimulate and offer interesting activities to children. Registration is done weekly, from the Wednesday preceding the week of activities. Lunch time is not covered by the organization.

Information:

Saint-Hubert: 450-462-8777 # 6810

Saint-Jean Garrison: 450-358-7099 # 7955

Saturday, August 5, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

MFRC (Saint-Jean Garrison)

For military spouses, children and next of kin of military personnel Free

The Military Family Resource Centre (MFRC) is offering this activity to allow participants to share their deployment tips and experience and paint on wood. Registration before Thursday, August 3.

Workshop on self-esteem in children

August 31

Location: to be determined

For parents of military families

Free

The Military Family Resource Centre offers this workshop to support parents in implementing strategies that promote positive self-esteem in children. The workshop will be led by psychoeducator Stéphanie Deslauriers and will focus on children aged 0 to 10 years old.

Acrylic painting workshop

REGISTRATION

REGISTRATION

Photo: courtesy

Photo: courtesy

Sergeant Nilsson honours his ancestors and nature through

VIKING SPIRITUALITY

|Yves Bélanger, Servir

Sergeant Nikolaus Nilsson, an instructor at the Canadian Forces Leadership and Recruit School (CFLRS) is a follower of Norse paganism, commonly referred to as ancient Norse spirituality. The military member mentions that Nordic paganism is one of the names given to his religion. Others use the names Asatru, Vanatru, Rokkatru, Odinism and Heathenry. “Each practice is slightly different from each other, but shares the same base. This religion is decentralized and very open to each person or group that adheres to it. No priest, dogma or place of worship is linked to this religion.

Nordic paganism covers all the religious beliefs and practices of the Scandinavian peoples. They appeared around the 700s and disappeared around the year 1050, when the Viking civilization became Christianized. Sgt Nilsson explains that it was brothers in arms who introduced him to this form of spirituality. "It's hard for me to pinpoint the year I actually joined because it was a gradual process for me."

To keep in touch with his ancestors

The member says that being of Scandinavian origin, this spirituality allows him to connect with his ancestors in a way that Christian religions did not allow him. “Most of the rites that I practice have a link with the worship

of ancestors and nature by giving, for example, small offerings. Writings express that some dead persons would have remained on Earth as elves or ghosts of the earth. The two are therefore very closely linked.” He adds that the most common form of ancestor veneration is to keep them in the collective consciousness by passing on their stories and lessons. “We will thank them, usually at the celebration called Alfablot which takes place at the end of autumn.”

Sgt Nilsson explains that it is generally understood that while humans occupy the Earth, they do not own it. “We must ask permission and make an offering to the spirits of the Earth before using it. You have to get the blessing of the gods. For example, before planting a garden, a small offering and a prayer are made to ask for their blessing.”

There are several divinities, alive or not

He adds that the followers of Nordic paganism are polytheists. “We believe in Norse deities in various forms.” Sgt Nilsson adds that this religion is meant to be animist. “For us, all living and some non-living things have a spirit or a soul. We also believe in an afterlife that is very different from the Christian life.”

For pagans, the self is made up of many parts and some of them survive after death or reincarnate. “Most of the dead person would go to Hel,

Nordic paganism covers all the religious beliefs and practices of the Scandinavian peoples.

Photo: courtesy

another realm where we are reunited with our people and continue to live as we would in life.” For the pagans who died in battle and chosen by Odin and the Valkyries, there is Valhalla. “Folkvang, on the other hand, is a place for those who fell in battle, but were not chosen by Odin.”

Sgt Nilsson explains that there is no aspect of reward and punishment in the afterlife. “It is generally thought to affect our Hamingja. It is the part of us that reincarnates. It orients our life and that of our descendants, positively or negatively.” Nine noble virtues are also central to Norse paganism. “There is courage, truth, honour, fidelity, discipline, hospitality, devotion, perseverance, vigour and self-confidence.”

What are the rituals like?

Rites such as baptism, marriage or funeral exist in the Viking religion, but do not take the same form as in Christianity. “The ceremony closest to a baptism is when the father takes a sitting position on his knees to signify that he accepts a child as his own. We also have our own wedding and funeral celebrations.” In Norse paganism, weddings are held on Fridays, in honour of Frigga, the goddess of marriage and fertility. “It lasts three days or more. The bride is attended by married relatives and the groom performs a sword ceremony with the married men. Then the bride and groom come together and place the rings on the hilt of the sword. They address the gods before holding a great feast.” For funerals, the dead are cremated or buried. There is then a party in their honour. Sgt Nilsson says every funeral will be very different depending on the person. “Burial next to family is very important to some, scattering of ashes is important to others. In my case, I will be cremated and my ashes will be buried under a special tree.

Pagans can, on certain occasions, cast runes (tools of prediction) or practice seidr, magic to cast spells or predict the future. Sgt Nilsson attended some rituals with small groups. However, he prefers to be alone to practice his religion. “Members of my family have expressed interest in my beliefs, but I do not impose anything on them. For now, I am the only true follower of Norse paganism in the family.”

Many old traditions, such as animal sacrifice, can no longer be practiced today.

Spirituality favourable to diversity

Sgt Nilsson says he feels his religion is well accepted within the Canadian Armed Forces and those close to him. “Generally, I don't feel any prejudice within my work team.” He adds that the pagan community is inclusive and open to all people. “Most members have signed the Declaration of Deeds (Declaration 127) which renounces discrimination within the community.”

Regarding the tattoo, Sgt Nilsson indicates that there is nothing mentioned about it in the writings. “There is no evidence that tattooing was commonly practised by our Viking ancestors. Many practitioners, myself included, however, get tattoos of images or symbols that have significant meaning to themselves or their loved ones.”

*Relating to a polytheistic religion (as opposed to Christianity, Islam, Judaism).

To better understand Norse paganism

There are various interesting sources for people interested in religion:

Norse Mythology for Smart People

Toute l'Islande

The Troth

Youtube : Ocean Keltoi

Youtube : Wolf The Red

Youtube : Norse Magic and Beliefs

Sergeant Nikolaus Nilsson is an instructor at the Canadian Forces Leadership and Recruit School.

Photo: courtesy Viking ornament, Broa style Illustration: Jonas Lau Markussen

CONGRATULATIONS!

In addition to his duties as Deputy Senior Manager of PSP, Mr. Despars assumed the duties of internal project manager for the construction of the new sports centre at the Saint-Jean Garrison. He has demonstrated a strong spirit of innovation, initiative and teamwork.

He also set up a structured training program for employees and the foundations of an internal recognition program. In November 2022, he travelled to Cologne as the Decompression Stay Leader for Operation IMPACT.

The same month, he received the commemorative coin of the Director General – Defence Security from the hands of Brigadier General Denis Boucher for the exemplary governance structure he has put in place regarding security risks, more specifically planning programs, operations and unit activities

As a member of the fitness, sports and recreation team, Ms. Côté has demonstrated exceptional performance. She was instrumental in keeping the troops motivated

Task Force Latvia Commander’s

Fortin

Recognition

Alexandre Lévesque-Allaire

PSP

Victor Caron-Clément

reward

MCpl Marie-Ève Pelletier Leaving with dignity after 14 years of service

MCpl Zi Wang Chen Corps Svcs – 2 CDSG Promotion

Lt Walid El-Zalat Corps Svcs – 2 CDSG Promotion

Capt Tristan Dessureault Corps Svcs – 2 CDSG Promotion

Capt Gary-James Johnston Corps Svcs – 2 CDSG Promotion

Cpl Elena Abramov Corps Svcs – 2 CDSG Promotion

Cpl Adou Akré Corps Svcs – 2 CDSG Promotion

Cpl Karine Bernatchez Corps Svcs – 2 CDSG CF Decoration

Cpl Ning Han Corps Svcs – 2 CDSG Promotion

Cpl Hugue-Ernst Marceus Corps Svcs – 2 CDSG Promotion

Cpl Mélanie Richard Corps Svcs – 2 CDSG Promotion

Your promotion,decoration or mention have not been published? They will be in a later edition. Send us yours at servir@forces.gc.ca

Congratulations! 22 |June 14 2023

A FIRST PLACE IN CHEERLEADING

for Sailor 3rd class Justin Trevail

|Yves Bélanger, Servir

Cheerleading is not only a sporting discipline put forward during football matches. It is also a competitive sport. Sailor 3rd class Justin Trevail, who works in human resources logistics at the Canadian Forces Leadership and Recruit School (CFLRS), and his team won first place in the International Open Large coed – Level category 5 at the World Cheerleading Competition held in Orlando from April 20 to 26.

S3 Trevail started cheerleading in 2010 while in high school. “It was the girl I was dating at the time who insisted a bit to go with her to practices. I quickly fell in love with this sport which is a real physical challenge.”

Although he was a bit old (16) to learn the basics of cheerleading, he soon learned how to lift, flip and throw the girls on his team.

In 2014, when he arrived in Montreal, he became a member of the Notorious team of the Montreal gym Flyers Allstarz. S3 Trevail mentions that his team has an excellent reputation in international competition. “We have been winning gold in the International Open Large coed – Level 5 category for four years in a row.”

A demanding sport

Cheerleading is one of the most demanding sporting disciplines. At the competitive level, it is even more so. “A competition choreography lasts two and a half minutes. It is much more elaborate and physically intense. As soon as the music starts, we move nonstop. We dance, we lift the girls, we make them turn, in addition to throwing them at good distances.”

S3 Trevail is also a member of the cheerleading team of the Alouettes football club of the Canadian Football League. “My spouse also performs on this team.”

These implications require him to be very available. “With Nororious, we have between six and nine hours of weekly practice. As for the Alouettes, we have a three-hour training session every week. When I have free time, I take the opportunity to go to the gym and do bodybuilding exercises.”

He says he likes his job for the Alouettes. “It’s very different from the choreographies for the competition. It's more of a show. The movements are simpler and the objective is to create a festive atmosphere for the public.”

Becoming a coach

Thirty-year-old S3 Trevail knows that his career as a cheerleader is soon coming to an end. However, he does not intend to put this sport aside. “I recently started coaching teams and I love it. I intend to continue when I retire from the competitive level.”

With regard to his military career, S3 Trevail is currently studying to obtain a bachelor's degree in business administration from Concordia University. “I want to apply for the university training program for non-commissioned members to study full time.” Once he graduates, he plans to get his commission as an Officer.

Sailor 3rd class Justin Trevail, of the Canadian Forces Leadership and Recruit School, and his team won first place in the International Open Large Coed – Level 5 category at the 2023 World Cheerleading Competition.

Photo: courtesy

Sailor 3rd class Justin Trevail has been cheerleading for only 13 years.

Photo: courtesy

THEY ROSE TO THE CHALLENGE

|Yves Bélanger, Servir

On May 25, 72 CAF members were present at the Montreal Garrison to participate in the PSP Triathlon. They worked hard to get the best possible results.

Many of the participants were from the 3 Canadian Support Unit and the 25 Canadian Forces Supply Depot. They took the opportunity to do their team physical training. “We also had a few participants from the 2nd Canadian Division Support Group Technical Services, the 202 Workshop Depot and the Headquarters of the 2nd Canadian Division,” says Benoit Laurin-Jolicoeur, Fitness Coordinator, sport and leisure at the Montreal Garrison.

He explains that the activity went wonderfully and that the weather was perfect for such an event. “We are very pleased with the turnout.”

During the activity, each participant had to complete 1.5 km on a stationary bike, followed by 2 km on the rower before completing a 1.2 km run.

The fastest participants

Men

1st place Lieutenant-Colonel Mohamad Shamas, 3 Canadian Support Unit

2nd place Corporal Justin Beauvais, 202 Workshop Depot

3rd place (tie) Master Warrant Officer Olivier Trépanier, 3 Canadian Support Unit

Corporal Niko Pagé, 3 Canadian Support Unit

Women

1st place Corporal Meggy Bélair, 3 Canadian Support Unit

2nd place Warrant Officer Marie-Claude Pellerin, 25 Supply Depot

3rd place Corporal Jessica Joanisse, 3 Canadian Support Unit

1|The participants gave everything to complete the

race as quickly as possible.

2 km rowing

Photo: Yves Bélanger

2|Lieutenant-Colonel Mohamad Shamas, Commanding Officer of 3 Canadian Support Unit, finished first among the men.

Photo: Cpl Maxime Tremblay, 3 CSU

3|Corporal Meggy Bélair, from 3 Canadian Support Unit, finished first in the women's category.

Photo: Cpl Maxime Tremblay, 3 CSU

4|Aviator Dmitri Therrien, 3 Canadian Support Unit, during his round of rowing.

Photo: Cpl Maxime Tremblay, 3 CSU

5|Master Corporal Stéphane Côté, 2nd Canadian Division Support GroupTechnical Services, cycling the 1.5 km distance.

Photo: Yves Bélanger

THE COMMANDANT'S RUN is back!

On May 23, the tradition of the Commandant's Run was back in full force at the Canadian Forces Leadership and Recruit School (CFLRS) after a nearly three-year downturn due to the pandemic.

This 3.7 km race takes place one to four times between May and October each year. Its objective is to build the esprit de corps in the candidates, to promote well-being and physical health. It brings together all the candidates present at the time of the race as well as the military personnel. This means that the race brings together more than 450 people for the same reason: health.

Physical health

Lieutenant Colonel Chung Wong continues this activity, the second since taking office in June 2022. “Physical fitness is now one of the four pillars of basic training. The exercise has always been important, it is even more so today,” specifies the Commandant.

In addition, this major event is not intended only for candidates. Indeed, instructors and military personnel participate in the race, which demonstrates to candidates the importance of maintaining good health regardless of rank or trade. Note that this event is supervised by a Personnel Support Programs fitness team to prevent possible injuries.

Esprit de corps

Esprit de corps is the bond that is created between the candidates and the Canadian Armed Forces, but also between the candidates themselves. During training, candidates must support, encourage and help each other, and this mutual support is essential for success. The Commandant's Run is therefore an excellent opportunity to solidify this bond, as it is conducive to reciprocal encouragement.

More Commandant’s Runs will follow throughout the year. Dates are yet to be set.

Four hundred fifty people, staff members and candidates, participated in the first Commandant’s Run of the Year.

|CFLRS CFLRS

All participants gathered at 5:30 a.m. for the warm-up exercises.

MORE PHOTOS

FIVE RUNNERS REPRESENT US at the CF National Running Championship

|Yves Bélanger, Servir

Five military athletes from the Montreal Region were present at the Canadian Forces National Running Championship which took place in Ottawa on May 27 and 28. Three of them shared their impressions with Servir.

Officer Cadet Maximilien Fillion

This student from the Royal Military College Saint-Jean (RMC Saint-Jean) finished first in the 5 km for men under 19. Asked about his performance, the young athlete mentions that the intense heat was an inconvenience for all the runners during the day. “It was much more difficult physically. Fortunately, I was well trained.”

Although he hoped to obtain an excellent result, OCdt Fillion did not expect to finish in first place among the runners of his age group. “It was a nice surprise. Moreover, all my brothers and sisters from RMC Saint-Jean obtained a good ranking in their category.”

OCdt Fillion spends part of the summer in physical training at RMC  Saint-Jean. “My next big challenge will be to get a good result at the CF National Triathlon Championship which will take place in Gatineau from July 7 to 9.”

Lieutenant Camille Ferdais

This member of the 1st Canadian Field Hospital is also very satisfied with her performance for the 42.2 km race. “Despite the heat during the race, I managed to get my best time ever. It was not easy since I perceived my effort to be more intense due to this intense heat.”

Her results in the CF National Running Championship, which took place as part of the Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend, allowed her to qualify for the 2024 Boston Marathon. “I will therefore be able to send my application to participate in this event.”

Lieutenant(Navy) Simon Bullock

A crew member of His Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Donnacona, Lt(N) Bullock was again present at the CF National Running Championship this year. In the 5 km, he finished in fourth place in his category (men 30-35) which had 52 runners.

“It went very well for me. I was very happy to have run the 5 km instead of a longer distance given the heat. It was 28 °C during the race, which was a challenge.” Among the 5,983 runners, he finished 27th

He says his biggest challenge was balancing his ambitions of speed with the reality imposed by the heat. “You really had to know when to push or when to step back. The best moments were running with Lieutenant(Navy) Michael Bergeron of HMCS Queen Charlotte and hearing the cheers and reactions from the crowd. It was fun. It was a memorable moment.”

The results

Here are the results of the CAF members from the Montreal region who participated in the 2023 Canadian Forces National Running Championship.

• Lieutenant Camille Ferdais

1st Canadian Field Hospital Category: 42.2 km F30-34

Time: 3:28:18

Position: 67th place

• Lieutenant(Navy) Simon Bullock

His Majesty's Canadian Ship

Donnacona Category: 5 km M30-35

Time: 00:17:34

Position: 4th place

• Officer Cadet Maximilien Fillion

Royal Military College Saint-Jean Category: 5 km M19-

Time: 00:16:05

Position: 1st place

• Officer Cadet Liam Bronsema

Royal Military College Saint-Jean Category: 5 km M20-24

Time: 00:17:08

Position: 3rd place

• Officer Cadet Alex Labrie

Royal Military College Saint-Jean Category: 5 km M19-

Time: 00:17:49

Position: 6th place

Lieutenant Camille Ferdais Lieutenant(Navy) Simon Bullock

Officer Cadet Maximilien Fillion

Photos courtesy

From runner to sport trainer

|Yves Bélanger, Servir

In February, Master Corporal Kev Brisebois decided to follow the training to become a trainer. For this athlete who has taken part in several Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) running sporting events, it was a great way to give back.

“As a former athlete, I like to be present in sports environments and I want to give back my time, just like those who did it for me when I participated in competitions”, he says. He adds that becoming a sports trainer is also a way to make contacts within the CAF while broadening his expertise in sports.

Since his training, the CAF member has had the opportunity to work as a sports trainer at events such as the Canadian Forces Regional Hockey Championship and the National Mixed Volleyball Championship. “I enjoyed my experience very much. By working with physiotherapists and kinesiologists, it gives me versatility in my sports knowledge in rehabilitation. I also get great satisfaction from being able to help athletes perform despite minor pain or injury. It is a pleasure to have been able to help them during this adventure.”

Nutrition and performance workshop

MCpl Brisebois loves being present at sporting events and working with athletes. “They are all pleasant to be around and that makes our work very pleasant.”

He ends by explaining that the most difficult part of this job is to detect injuries. “With my level of experience, it is not easy to determine where the pain of the injured person is coming from and the real nature of the injury.” However, he knows that over time, it will become more and more natural for him.

The Health Promotion invites you to learn about effective eating strategies to perform during physical and sporting activities.

Where: Saint-Jean Garrison, local M-204 (face to face)

When:

• June 21 (presentation in English), 9 a.m. - noon

• June 22 (presentation in French), 9 a.m. - noon

Open to CAF members, their families, and civilian employees of the Defence Team (Public Servants and Non-Public Funds). Deadline to register: June 16, 2023.

Master Corporal Kev Brisebois, Saint-Jean and Montreal head cashier at the 2nd Canadian Division Support Group, completed his sports trainer training in February 2023.

Photo: courtesy

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!

Summer activities for all

This Summer, the Saint-Jean Garrison Recreation Department is offering various outdoor activities, each more enjoyable than the next. Consult the Summer program for more information.

Introduction to water activities

Saturday, July 8, 10 a.m.

Centre de plein air L’Estacade, Saint-Paul-de-l’Île-aux-Noix,

For everyone. PSP member: $20 Non-member: $30

Canoe camping

Saturday, July 8, 5 p.m.

Centre de plein air L’Estacade, Saint-Paul-de-l’Île-aux-Noix

For people aged 16 and over. PSP member: $40 Non-member: $60

Initiation to water activities and canoe camping

July 8 and 9 (duration: 23 hours)

Centre de plein air L’Estacade, Saint-Paul-de-l’Île-aux-Noix

For people aged 16 and over. PSP member: $50 Non-member: $75

Introduction to bike camping on Granby's bike paths

July 29, 3:30 p.m.

Parc de la Tannerie, Granby

For people aged 16 and over. PSP member: $50 Non-member: $65

Bike camping on the Route Verte from Saint-Jean to Granby

July 29, 11 a.m.

Departure from Saint-Jean Garrison

For people aged 16 and over. PSP member: $50 Non-member: $65

Wilderness camping

August 11, 6 p.m.

Centre de plein air L’Estacade, Saint-Paul-de-l’Île-aux-Noix

For people aged 16 and over. PSP member: $25

Non-member: $35

Cidery visit and hiking

August 26, 1:30 p.m.

Cidrerie Michel Jodoin, Rougemont

For everyone. PSP member: $8 Non-member: $12

The Summer Recreation Program is out

The Summer program for the Saint-Jean Garrison Sports Centre is online. Consult it to find out about the various outdoor activities offered by the Recreation Department and their group lessons (climbing, spinning, bootcamp, introduction to slacklining, water aerobics and water zumba). Lessons and specialized activities will begin the week of July 3. Registration is open until June 26.

Outdoor pool opening

From June 23 to September 11, the outdoor pool at the Saint-Jean Garrison will be open to everyone for swimming.

• Monday to Friday: 3:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.

• Saturday and Sunday: 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Free for CAF members and PSP Plan subscribers. Charges for other users are as follows:

• 18 and over: $8

• 14 to 17 years old: $7

• 6 to 13 years old: $6

• 5 and under: free