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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.
In training at Farnham
| Yves Bélanger, Servir
From September 22 to 24, Officer Cadets and Naval Cadets from the Royal Military College Saint-Jean were at the Farnham training site to participate in the annual LEADERSHIP
The future Officers participated in different field activities such as the rappel tower, orientation with map and compass, obstacle course in addition to different leadership challenges. This has been a great combination for developing their skills and building their team spirit.
Holding a campaign exercise of this scale is no easy feat. The Officer Cadet Division team is putting a lot of effort into preparing for this weekend and allowing the candidates to experience an unforgettable moment. It takes approximately three months of work to carry out such an activity.
During the weekend, the Officer Cadets and the Naval Cadets had the chance to develop their leadership by participating in different activities.
Photos: RMC Saint-Jean
Who are the PSPs?
Personnel Support Programs, commonly referred to as “PSP”, is a division of the Canadian Forces Morale and Welfare Services (CFMWS). Their mandate is to improve the quality of life of CAF members and their loved ones.
In the Montreal region, the 109 members of the team have the physical and mental health of members of the military community at heart: they are there to offer you different programs and services in the areas of physical fitness, military sports, adapted physical conditioning and recreation. But did you know that it is also the PSPs who are responsible for sports facilities, messes, Health Promotion, Servir newspaper and the two sports and outdoor shops?
To help you discover their different facets, Servir will present these different departments to you over the coming months.
The PSPs facilities department team: Luc Boulanger, Team Leader, Jean-Philippe Daoust-Guernon, Coordinator, and Yves Connor, Groundskeeper. Mr. Denis Maure, Groundskeeper was absent at the time of the picture.
Photo: Yves Bélanger
Join the team Discover the different PSPs’ platforms
Those who work behind the scenes
| Yves Bélanger, Servir
At Saint-Jean and Montreal Garrisons, Personnel Support Programs (PSP) offer a wide range of services to members of the military community. If they can serve you so well, it's thanks to five of their employees who work behind the scenes, forming an essential department...
The facilities department team is made up of two Groundskeepers, Denis Maure and Yves Connor, and a Team Leader, Luc Boulanger. These men all work under the supervision of the Coordinator, Jean-Philippe Daoust-Guernon. “We have also just hired a third Groundskeeper who will take up his position shortly. »
Mr. Daoust-Guernon explains that his department's main mandate is to upkeep the training halls and gymnasiums at both garrisons. “We have to provide quality sports facilities for the training of the Canadian Forces Leadership and Recruit School’s candidates and CAF members. We also have to ensure that the equipment they contain is functional and safe.”
Mr. Daoust-Guernon points out that his team must also ensure that all premises used by other PSP departments are operational at all times.
Working in collaboration with RPOU Quebec
We know that at the Department of National Defence, infrastructure work is carried out by the Real Property Operation Unit (Quebec) (RPOU Quebec). In such a context, how far does the facilities team's mandate extend?
“First of all, we have to take care of equipment maintenance and repairs. For example, if a spinning bike or electronic scoreboard isn't working properly, we'll do the repairs ourselves or turn to an external firm.” Every month, Mr. Daoust-Guernon's team solves a host of problems, from levelling the fridge in a PSP employee lunchroom to helping the Health Promotion team move a piece of furniture.
Photo: Yves Bélanger
Photo: archives
Photo: archives
Whether outdoors or indoors, the work of the facilities team is essential to the smooth operation of the PSPs and the CAF members.
The members of the facilities team have to carry out a wide variety of tasks. A few years ago, Mr. Denis Maure, Groundskeeper, was in charge of maintaining the cross-country ski trail at the Saint-Jean Garrison.
Upcoming projects
Responsible for keeping PSP facilities in good condition, the facilities department works closely with RPOU Quebec. “For example, if we observe a suspicious noise in a gym's ventilation system, we contact them immediately so they can take the necessary actions to correct the problem. Same thing if a window is damaged in a mess hall or the sports store needs a new lighting system. RPOU Quebec is also responsible for the household maintenance of our premises, from the various PSP offices to the gyms and showers.”
When it comes to outdoor facility maintenance, it's the PSP team that is most often in action. “Whether it's making the white lines on the ball fields, making minor repairs to the ball hockey surface or replacing the net on a soccer goal, it's our team that takes care of it.” RPOU Quebec will step in when a floodlight needs replacing or the pool's water heater needs repairing.
“At both the Montreal and Saint-Jean Garrisons, we make sure that all outdoor facilities are ready for use, whether by CAF members, subscribers to our sports centres or the civilian organizations that rent them.”
Due to the wide variety of work to be carried out, the Coordinator explains that his employees must be extremely versatile. “Of course they have to know how to use a screwdriver! But most importantly, they must be resourceful and highly motivated by their work. These are the qualities that I find within our current team and which are essential.”
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When Mr. Daoust-Guernon is asked about his department's projects, he recalls that his team carries out inspections of sports facilities on a regular basis and then devotes itself to the facilities of other PSP departments. “We really stick to the needs expressed over the weeks. We are the catalysts for project leaders. By operating with a reduced team for some time, we unfortunately had to concentrate on priority files.”
The Coordinator points out that his team inspects sports facilities on a regular basis, and then turns its attention to the facilities of other PSP departments. "We really stick to the needs expressed over the weeks. We are the catalysts for project developers. Operating with a small team, we unfortunately have to concentrate on priority issues."
The employee who will soon join the team will be able to take over the files that had to be put aside in recent months. “We will become more efficient and proactive. Over the past year, our department has seen an increase in service requests, particularly due to the partnership between the community recreation department and the City of Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu. This agreement allows the municipality to use the facilities of the SaintJean Garrison sports centre, which is an excellent thing for everyone!”
The installations Coordinator also plans to offer more sustained service to the Montreal Garrison in the coming months. “Currently, my team is not able to do this, in particular because of the travel time required. We therefore focus on the most urgent needs. My goal is to send a Groundskeeper there one or two days a week in the near future.”
The 2nd Canadian Division contributes to social reintegration
| Yves Bélanger, Servir
Since the beginning of the summer, the Real Property Operation Unit (Quebec) – Montreal Section (RPOU – (Quebec) Det Montreal) has been using the services of CORCAN Construction to carry out certain work at Montreal Garrison. Around ten inmates participate in this social reintegration program.
CORCAN is a special operating agency within the Correctional Service of Canada. It provides prisoners with employment opportunities and training in employability skills. Inmates can benefit from this program while incarcerated in federal penitentiaries and for brief periods after their release. For years, the Canadian Armed Forces have used the services of this organization. Among other things, from 2017 to 2018, inmates of the Cowansville prison built new furniture for the dormitories of the Canadian Forces Leadership and Recruit School.
“However, this is the first time that we have used CORCAN services for infrastructure repair work,” explains Behrang Ghaffari, Project Manager at RPOU – (Quebec) Det Montreal, in charge for this pilot project. He indicates that until now, participants in the social reintegration program have, among other things, carried out masonry, plastering, pruning and plumbing work. “They are currently working on repairing the Excalibur mess hall. We already have around ten projects pending for the rest of the fiscal year. » He says he calls on CORCAN Construction when work is necessary and the RPOU – (Quebec) Det Montreal team or the construction project team are not able to carry it out within a reasonable time. “This allows us to proceed much more quickly and at reasonable costs.”
Safety is not an issue
Mr. Ghaffari explains that, until now, everything is going perfectly. “This program is very well managed. There is an instructor for each group of four inmates and they have a converted trailer in which they can take their breaks. » He adds that CORCAN program participants cannot speak to the CAF members or civilian employees if they come across them.
Inmates who are chosen to participate in this program are those in federal prisons and who are housed in minimum security sectors. “It’s either that they are about to be released or they have demonstrated good behaviour.”
In terms of security, everything has been planned. “Participants never have access to the premises of the high security sectors of the Montreal Garrison. If work is required in these areas, only program instructors can do it, because they are federal employees and have obtained their security clearance.”
A project that will expand
Given the results obtained, the Project Manager hopes to continue working in collaboration with CORCAN Construction. “I think this program is an excellent initiative. It allows inmates to gain experience in the construction industry. It’s very rewarding for them.”
To this end, other bases and squadrons are showing interest in the project.
“Recently, I explained to my peers in Saint-Jean all the details of the social reintegration program and the results obtained.”
Behrang Ghaffari recalls that for the moment, the collaborative work with CORCAN Construction is being tested. “For now, it’s a pilot project. However, with the excellent results we are obtaining, I believe this partnership will become official soon.”
Work is currently being carried out by CORCAN Construction at the Excalibur mess of the Montreal Garrison.
Photo: courtesy
Lots of fun and a good lunch at the Festi-Fête PSP
| Yves Bélanger, Servir
On September 14 and 15, the first edition of the Festi-Fête PSP took place at the Montreal and Saint-Jean Garrisons and was a great success. Even the sun was there!
Étienne-David Fortin, Manager of Health Promotion, mentions that more than 300 members of the military community in the Montreal region participated in sports activities, quizzes and skill games offered by the different departments of the Personnel Support Programs and the Canadian Forces Morale and Welfare Services’ (CFMWS) organizations. “The activities ended with a good meal at dinner time.”
The objective was to present the PSP team, their CFMWS partners as well as the range of services offered. “I would like to thank all the CAF members and civilian employees who took the time to come to meet us and have fun.”
Étienne-David Fortin ends by saluting the partners who contributed to the holding of these two days: CANEX, SISIP Financial and Desjardins Caisse des Militaires.
Beach volleyball was among the activities offered at the Montreal Garrison.
Photo: Yves Bélanger
At the Saint-Jean Garrison, in addition to outdoor activities, participants had access to different indoor platforms and were able to complete a slackline test.
Photo: MCpl Jeff Clément – Imagery Saint-Jean
Giving to make a difference
| Yves Bélanger, Servir
The National Defence Workplace Charitable Campaign (NDWCC) has been underway in the Montreal region since September 7. Under the theme Every dollar makes a difference , the Saint-Jean and Montreal Garrisons will be campaigning to raise $220,000.
At the launch of the event at the Saint-Jean Garrison, three representatives of the campaign's beneficiary organizations (Centraide, MS Canada and Famille à cœur) reminded us of the importance of participating, and that even the smallest donation has a major impact on the help they provide to the community.
How much giving and who to give to?
You can contribute to the NDWCC by taking part in activities organized by units of the Saint-Jean and Montreal Garrisons. You can also make a personal donation. It can be a one-time payment or a fixed amount deducted automatically from 26 pay periods.
No matter how you make your donation, you can choose which organization will benefit from it. Here are your three choices:
• donate to PartenaireSanté, a group of 16 organizations such as the Heart and Stroke Foundation
• donate to Centraide of Greater Montreal (or any other Centraide in Canada), which redistributes the funds to community organizations such as Famille à coeur
• donate to the charity of your choice, provided it is Canadian and registered under the Income Tax Act.
The campaign runs until December 8.
Funding research to beat the disease
Pierre Couture, spokesperson for MS Canada, spoke of the importance of funding research to one day overcome certain diseases, such as multiple sclerosis. “Over the past 20 years, there has been so much progress in research that now people with multiple sclerosis can look forward to a slightly more normal life. Medications make it possible to slow down the development of the disease considerably. It's quite rare these days for a sufferer to find themselves quickly confined to a wheelchair. We hope that researchers will soon be able to develop a vaccine against this disease.”
He was keen to point out that the disease changes many lives. “And not just for the person affected, but for everyone around them. It changes habits, as well as affecting income.”
Mr. Couture concluded by pointing out that PartenaireSanté brings together 16 health organizations offering services across Canada. “Donors can choose the one of their choice. All causes are good.”
Pierre Couture, MS Canada spokesperson.
Photo: MCpl Jeff Clément – Imagery Saint-Jean
Poverty affects the middle class the most
David Pon, spokesman for Centraide, explained that the current economic situation is having a major impact on food banks. “The number of requests has literally exploded over the past year.”
The cost of housing in the Greater Montreal area is largely responsible for this situation. “The average cost of a 4 ½-room apartment in the Greater Montreal area is $1,048. For someone working for minimum wage, this means that once housing is paid for, only $91 is left for food, clothing or other expenses.”
Mr. Pon spoke of the new reality of poverty. “It's no longer just people without jobs who are appealing to charities. There are also more and more middle-class families who need help because of the rising cost of living.”
Helping families
Geneviève Boileau, spokesperson for Famille à cœur, explained that her organization has three components: the Maison de la famille, the Maison Oxygène Haut-Richelieu and the Centre de ressources périnatale. “We're here to support individual and family well-being to help families in the Haut-Richelieu region flourish.”
She maintains that the objectives of Famille à cœur include reducing social isolation, promoting mutual aid, and preventing parental burnout, family crises and acts of violence. “We also foster relationships between men and women and between parents and children. We aim to develop self-awareness and autonomy, as well as raising community awareness of the importance of family health. We also offer housing and support services for men experiencing marital difficulties.”
Ms. Boileau explained that the growing number of families experiencing financial difficulties is worrying. “Our recent statistics about our users show that 55.3% of the families who attend our organization are low-income or living in financial precariousness. That's why the money we receive in donations is essential to support these families.”
David Pon, Centraide spokesperson. Photo: MCpl Jeff Clément – Imagery Saint-Jean
Geneviève Boileau, spokesperson for Famille à cœur.
Photo: MCpl Jeff Clément – Imagery Saint-Jean
Win a Nespresso coffee machine!
The Saint-Jean Garrison’s PSP team invites you to participate in the draw which will take place on December 1, 2023. Tickets will be on sale at the reception desk of the sports centre (M-200) of the Saint-Jean Garrison until to November 29. One ticket for $5, three for $10
Why I donate to the NDWCC
“Three years ago, my daughter was born prematurely. She had to be hospitalized for more than a month at the Sainte-Justine university hospital center. Since we were not from Montreal, the hospital team offered us accommodation at the Cachou organization, for $15 per day. We benefited from this assistance thanks to donations made to the CHU Sainte-Justine Foundation. So I understood the importance of participating in the National Defence Workplace Charity Campaign. It’s a way for me to give back.”
Sergeant Daniel Jean NDWCC Major donor 25 Canadian Forces Supply Depot
GARNISON SAINT-JEAN – 1 DÉCEMBRE 2023
d’acheter
More than $400 raised
SAINT-JEAN GARRISON – DECEMBER 1, 2023
participate, go to the Sports Centre reception desk (M-200) to buy your ticket.
The Grab and Go benefit activity held on September 7 at the Saint-Jean Garrison rotunda raised $414. The activity was held on the same day as the launch of the 2023 campaign.
Photo: MCpl Jeff Clément – Imagery Saint-Jean
The pleasure of teaching her profession
| Yves Bélanger, Servir
During a deployment of a few days in Mongolia, Captain Frédérique Rousseau, Public Affairs Officer at the 438 Tactical Helicopter Squadron in Saint-Hubert, had the opportunity to explain her job to around twenty Asian military members. She explains to having loved her experience which, among other things, allowed her to discover an inspiring nation.
It was not the first teaching experience for Capt Rousseau. “A few years ago, as a civilian, I had the chance to go to Costa Rica to teach for six months.” She also gave some military training over the years. It was these experiences that encouraged her to join the Defence Public Affairs Learning Centre (DPALC) network. “I love my job and I like to share my knowledge. I told myself that DPALC was the ideal place to put my experience to use.”
It was in 2013 that the Officer discovered the world of public affairs. “When I enlisted, I was a Reservist in the Régiment de Hull, an armored unit. One day, I had the opportunity to discover what the tasks of a Public Affairs Officer entailed. I quickly understood that this is what I wanted to do in life.”
Presenting the Canadian know-how
It was during the month of August that Capt Rousseau left for Mongolia to carry out her first deployment for the DPALC. “We were four CAF members who went there.”
The group of students was made up of 12 Mongolian soldiers, and 14 soldiers from Bangladesh, Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam. “The group was really nice. Students were very motivated to learn and understand the public affairs environment.”
Before their arrival in Mongolia, the four trainers agreed on what they wanted to present to their students. “The issues are sometimes very different from one country to another. So we decided to talk about how public affairs works within the Canadian Armed Forces.”
The Officer was able to note that public relations departments within foreign armies are not all at the same level of development. “This is why we chose to approach the broad outlines of our work. We were not there to tell them what to do, but to explain to them how we proceed in this area.”
In addition to theoretical presentations, the four CAF members also organized various practical exercises. “Among other things, we carried out role plays to simulate media interviews. The participants really liked it.”
Discover
Mongolian culture
Capt Rousseau mentions that she and her colleagues had the chance to visit Mongolia, more precisely the capital, Ulaanbaatar. “The Mongolians have been really nice to us. They are proud of their history and traditions. They were obviously happy to talk to us about it.” Among the places she visited was the Genghis Khan’s equestrian statue. “It was truly fascinating to learn more about this man who was one of the greatest leaders in history.”
Now back home, Capt Rousseau is already looking forward to reliving an experience like this as a representative of the DPALC. “These are enriching experiences that allow us to create bonds. It's really awesome.”
The group of teachers and students during the visit to the equestrian statue of Genghis Khan, in Mongolia.
Photo: courtesy Captain Frédérique Rousseau, Public Affairs Officer at the 438 Tactical Helicopter Squadron, posing in front of the steppes.
Photo: courtesy
Get vaccinated at the beginning of the season
| 41 CF Health Services Centre
Fall means the arrival of the flu season. This year, during the influenza vaccination campaign, the COVID-19 vaccine (booster dose) will also be available for those interested.
The flu is a contagious respiratory disease that can cause serious complications which can sometimes lead to hospitalization of those affected. Vaccination is the most effective way to protect yourself and your family.
The effectiveness of the vaccine against influenza is acquired two weeks after the administration: it is therefore important
Your protection against the COVID-19 virus needs to be renewed if you haven’t had the illness and/or received a COVID vaccine in the last six months. A booster dose is intended to adequately maintain the primary vaccine series. If you’ve never received a vaccine against the COVID virus, you are eligible to receive your first dose during the following dates mentioned below.
Saint-Jean Garrison
CAF members who wish to be vaccinated can go to the medical clinic on October 24 and 27, without an appointment.
If you cannot be present during these days, make an appointment with the Immunization section at 450-358-7099 # 7704.
Montreal Garrison
CAF members must make an appointment at 514-252-2777 # 4916 if they wish to be vaccinated.
Taking actions to get closer
and get to know each other better
| Yves Bélanger, Servir
From September 27 to 30, various activities were organized on Canadian military sites as part of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. In our region, several activities took place.
The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is celebrated on September 30 each year. First created as a day of commemoration in 2013, it was elevated to the status of a legal holiday in 2021.
At the Saint-Jean and Montreal Garrisons, as well as at the Royal Military College of Saint-Jean, Survivors' flag raisings were carried out. Other activities such as smudging, tobacco ceremony and singing songs were offered. These activities were intended to be excellent opportunities to discover the history, culture and daily life of Aboriginal people. On September 30, the main buildings of the Montreal and Saint-Jean Garrisons were illuminated orange.
Some of the participants in the activities organized at the Saint-Jean Garrison.
Luce Bélanger, an elder of Métis Algonquin origin, was invited by the Royal Military College of Saint-Jean.
Photo: MCpl Jeff Clément – Imagery Saint-Jean
Photo: RMC Saint-Jean
As on the majority of Canadian military sites, the Survivors' flag was raised on the morning of September 27 at the Saint-Jean Garrison. It floated until the end of the day on September 30.
Several members of the staff of the Royal Military College Saint-Jean participated in the smoke purification ceremony held for the occasion.
At the Montreal Garrison, Sergeant Laurence Séguin, Recruitment Assistant for the Carcajou and Indigenous programs, was among those invited to speak at the raising of the Survivors' flag.
A tobacco ceremony was performed before the raising of the Survivors' flag at the Montreal Garrison.
Photo: MCpl Jeff Clément – Imagery Saint-Jean
Photo: RMC Saint-Jean
Photo: MCpl Dominic Duchesne-Beaulieu – HQ 2 Cdn Div
Photo: MCpl Dominic Duchesne-Beaulieu – HQ 2 Cdn Div
Congratulations!
Handover of power
At the 2nd Canadian Ranger Patrol Group
On August 31, Chief Warrant Officer Mathieu Giard, outgoing Sergeant Major of the 2nd Canadian Ranger Patrol Group, handed over the cadence stick to Chief Warrant Officer Sébastien Fortier, designated Sergeant Major. The ceremony took place in the presence of guests and dignitaries. CWO Fortier arrives from Kingston where he worked with the 1st Engineer Support Unit. CWO Giard has been appointed Sergeant Major of the 34 Canadian Brigade Group.
From left to right: the Commander of the 2 nd Canadian Ranger Patrol Group, Lieutenant-Colonel Nicolas Hilaréguy, Chief Warrant Officer Sébastien Fortier and Chief Warrant Officer Mathieu Giard.
Photo:
Sgt Véronique Daigle
In a nutshell
Pumpkin carving competition
The Canadian Forces Morale and Welfare Services (CFMWS) is hosting a pumpkin carving competition. Whether you're an aspiring artist or renowned sculptor, this is your chance to shine. From October 15 to 30, create, sculpt and participate for a chance to win big!
One lucky winner will receive a $1,000 Canadian Tire gift card, perfect for stocking up on fall essentials and more! The announcement of the winners will take place on October 31.
How to participate?
1. Sculpt your masterpiece
2. Take a photo of your carved pumpkin from the best angle
3. Send it to the SBMFC
4. Follow our social media for competition updates and winner announcement
Deadline: October 30, 2023
Registration
The Gray Cup visits HMCS Donnacona
His Majesty's Canadian Ship (HMCS) Donnacona organized a Gray Cup commemorative event on September 29 in Montreal. The winners of the 32 nd Gray Cup brought the trophy back to Montreal as part of the centennial celebrations of the Naval Reserve of the Royal Canadian Navy.
HMCS Donnacona, one of its units, is also celebrating its century of existence this year. It won this trophy in 1944. “The story of HMCS Donnacona's 1944 Gray Cup victory demonstrates the Canadian spirit of resilience and community during the dark days of the Second World War. My crew and I are proud to be able to highlight this feat, 79 years later, with members of the community on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the Naval Reserve of the Royal Canadian Navy,” said Commander Louis-Phillippe Trudel, Commanding Officer of HMCS Donnacona.
Around the iconic trophy, veterans, active military personnel, football fans and members of the community gathered to mark this important milestone in sporting and maritime history. Participants were able to take photos with the cup to remember this event.
Chief Petty Officer 2 nd Class Isabelle Proulx and Commander Louis-Phillippe Trudel, respectively Chief Training Petty Officer and Commanding Officer of His Majesty's Canadian Ship Donnacona, alongside the Gray Cup.
Photo: HMCS Donnacona
The art of organizing a perfect day of cohesion
| Sergeant Korina Verreault, CFLRS
On Friday, September 1, the Canadian Forces Leadership and Recruit School (CFLRS) A Division held a day of activities for its members. Thanks to the Community Recreation Department of the Personnel Support Programs, we were able to enjoy a morning in the facilities of L’Estacade outdoor centre and a host of activities: paddle boarding, canoeing, kayaking, archery, spikeball and volleyball.
The staff of the Saint-Jean Garrison sports store greatly contributed to the success of our morning by supporting its preparation and providing well-maintained equipment. The involvement of Marc-Antoine Mercier, Outdoor Specialist Instructor, far exceeded our expectations. His desire to help us discover everything that the Community Recreation Department and the sports store have to offer allowed us to make the most of our visit to L'Estacade.
Finally, in the afternoon, we went to lunch at Marina St-Tropez and took advantage of its swimming pool. We all really enjoyed this well-deserved day of rest!
We would like to thank:
• Samuel Sénécal, Fitness Instructor at Community Recreation Department, who joined us and supervised the water activities.
• Jessica Blouin, Johanne Archambault, Andréa Archambault and Pierre Brasseur, from the sports store, for their dedication.
• L’Estacade outdoor centre and Marina St-Tropez for their service and courtesy.
Get help from Community Recreation Department for your activities!
Marc-Antoine Mercier can help you organize your activity and lead it, if necessary. You can call him at 450-358-7099 #2455.
To find out about Comox
Since 1960, the Totem Times has informed members of 19 Wing, making it the oldest newspaper in the Comox Valley. With a print run of 1,800 copies, it is published every second Tuesday and distributed to the wing and many locations in the region. We invite you to take a look!
The Comox Air Force Museum (CAFM) and Heritage Air Park commemorates the role and history of 19 Wing (CFB/RCAF/RAF), documenting significant achievements in West Coast Military Aviation History. Founded in 1982 as part of the Air Force Indoctrination School, CAFM was accredited as a stand-alone Canadian Forces Museum and officially opened its doors to the public on 12 September 1987.
In the foreground, Sergeant Noël Wendel is preparing to demonstrate his paddleboarding skills to members of Division A. Behind, Warrant Officer Alaa Mansour, a few moments before a swim which was not planned on the schedule! Despite
sport.
HMCS Donnacona marches in Montreal
On Saturday, September 23, the crew of His Majesty's Canadian Ship (HMCS) Donnacona marched through the streets of Montreal as part of a Freedom of the City parade. Approximately 150 Royal Canadian Navy reservists took part in this event organized as part of the Naval Reserve Centennial celebrations. The parade left from Place d’Armes to go to the City of Montreal town hall where a ceremony took place.
The HMCS Donnacona has actively served since 1923. The freedom of the city is a longstanding tradition during which a city grants a military unit to march through its streets with drums beating, colours flying and bayonets fixed to the cannons.
Take advantage of this day to do sports!
| Servir
Canadian Armed Forces Sports Day will return this year on October 19 at the Montreal and Saint-Jean Garrisons.
For the occasion, the Personnel Support Programs (PSP) offer various sporting activities, both for CAF members and civilian employees (public service and non-public funds). This is the 11th edition of this day which aims to highlight the many physical, mental and social benefits of sports.
At the Saint-Jean Garrison
Climbing
9 a.m. to 12 p.m. - Palaestra Block less than 9 feet, free route and guided route, controlled fall
Free Pickleball
9 a.m. to 12 p.m. - Fieldhouse B Possibility of borrowing the necessary equipment at the sports store (M-174)
At the Montreal Garrison
Quidditch, PSP version
8 a.m. to 11 a.m. - gymnasium
3 x 50 min
Slow pitch
8 a.m. to 11 a.m. - slow pitch field
Ultimate Frisbee
8 a.m. to 11 a.m.Ultimate Frisbee field 3 x 50 min
Triathlon Cross Training
10 a.m. to 12 p.m. - Fieldhouse C Limited places, 20 teams of 3 people. Duration: 45min
Tests: rehearsals must be shared between team members. Starting point 100 burpees, 3 km rower, 2 km SkiErg, 1 km run
#6104
Functional training competition
11 a.m. to 12 p.m. - gymnasium
Yoga
11 a.m. to 12 p.m. – gymnasium
The Commander of the HMCS Donnacona knocks on the door of Montreal Town Hall to request the right to march with his troop in the street of the city.
Martine Musau Muele, President of the Montreal Municipal Council and former Reservist, reviews the troops with Commander Louis-Phillippe Trudel, Commander of HMCS Donnacona.
Photo: HMCS Donnacona
Photo: HMCS Donnacona
In what type of boat, your couple is sailing in?
| Yves Bélanger, Servir
The Canadian Forces Morale and Welfare Services (CFMWS) Healthy Relationships Campaign will take place from October 16 to 27. Active and retired CAF members, as well as their families, are invited to a conference dinner on couples' relationships on Thursday, October 26, at the O'Mega mess, at the Saint-Jean Garrison.
“The conference entitled Ton couple est dans quel bateau ? aims to take a look at what life as a couple is like, in a humorous way,” explains Annie Leclerc, Prevention, Support and Intervention Coordinator, at the Military Family Resource Centre (MFRC) in the Montreal region, and Co-Chair of the Family Violence Advisory Team.
The conference will address 13 relevant themes accompanied by simple and concrete solutions. “Each of the themes addressed is represented by an aspect linked to a boat, hence the title of the conference”.
Although the activity will take place in French, the conference will be simultaneously translated into English. “The activity will conclude with karaoke during which people will be invited to sing songs referring to life as a couple.”
Ms. Leclerc recalls that in addition to the MFRC, three other services work within the Family Violence Advisory Team: the 5 Military Police Regiment, the Chaplaincy, the Personnel Support Programs (Health Promotion) as well as the 41 Canadian Forces Health Services Centre.
She recalls that the main objective of the Healthy Relationships Campaign is to encourage CAF members to strengthen their human relationships. “This conference will allow us to introspect on relationships. This allows people to communicate better.”
The activity is free, but CAF members must register before October 20. “On site, we will offer free childcare for children aged 4 to 11.”
Two video conferences
Annie Leclerc continues by indicating that the Montreal region MFRC offers two other conferences on healthy relationships on its website. “These are video conferences from Danie Beaulieu, psychologist. The first is entitled Améliorer vos relations parents-enfants (Improving your parent-child relationships) and the title of the second is Mise au point sur mesure pour couples (Tailored development for couples). The conferences are in French, but subtitled in English.
Ms. Leclerc ends by inviting people wishing to deepen their knowledge on relationships to consult the cfmws.ca website. “There are, among other things, different advice sheets giving lots of relationship tips such as the intimate relationships continuum diagram and another on adolescent parent relationships.”
Register for conferences
Relationship Tip Sheets
Stéphane Lecault and Valérie Sentenne will host the conference dinner Ton couple est dans quel bateau ?.
Photo: courtesy
Do you differentiate between spirituality and religion?
| Yves Bélanger, Servir
Many people wrongly associate spirituality and religion. These two concepts are not necessarily opposites, but they do differ on some aspects. To better understand, Servir newspaper met Padre (Capt) Éric Généreux who works at the Saint-Jean Garrison, notably with the Canadian Forces Leadership and Recruit School.
A biologist by training, Padre Généreux was ordained a Catholic priest in 2000. “During my childhood, I had the chance to work on a farm. It has always been clear to me that sciences such as biology and agriculture have a direct connection to spirituality. Watching the bees in my orchard while the flowers were pollinating brought me back to the greatness of God.” Becoming a Community Pastor was the best way for him to deepen his spiritual life.
He chose to don the uniform of the Canadian Armed Forces as a reservist in 2015. He wanted to provide spiritual support to the CAF members who often make great sacrifices to defend Canadian values. “However, in 2020, I became a member of the Regular Force.”
Living your spirituality is easier than you think
For Padre Généreux, spirituality is a fundamental element for the human being who seeks to unify his life experience in self-realization and surpassing himself. It allows individuals to question the meaning of their existence.
Religion does this too, by promoting a common and collective vision while following an ideology. “Religion is one way to develop one’s spirituality, but it is not the only way. For some, it can be a straitjacket in different aspects, because it forces them to follow rules established for many years.”
Although he does not wish for anything in the world to leave religious life to live his spirituality as a layman, Padre Généreux does not hesitate to question certain rules advocated by his Church. “I think it should bring us back to the sources, to the messages of the gospels. Besides, I prefer to say that my spirituality is Christian, rather than Catholic. For me, the main thing is to follow the values of Jesus and transmit them in my daily life.”
He mentions that spiritual development can be done in different ways. It can be done following any religious dogma or belief. “Prayer and meditation are beautiful ways to take a step back and return to true human values.” The important thing is to remain faithful to these values. “It is not only by going to mass that we develop our spirituality. Helping your neighbour, listening to yourself and others, putting our values into practice is the best way to live our spirituality.”
Humility above all!
When Padre Généreux wishes a return to the gospels, he thinks of the values of welcome, forgiveness and unconditional love. “We are here to serve people, which above all implies humility.” He says he does not always observe this humility in certain representatives of his Church.
He is very inspired by one of the texts of the Saint John’s Gospel which recounts the moment when Jesus took the time to wash the feet of his apostles, a few hours before being arrested, judged and crucified. “There is no more humble gesture than stooping down to wash someone’s feet.”
He was very proud when Pope Francis, from the beginning of his mandate (2013), made a big change in the ritual of washing the feet which takes place on Maundy Thursday. “Traditionally, people were handpicked to qualify for this honour. This pope decided to show greater humility by washing, for example, the feet of prisoners or people with AIDS,” he concludes.
No religion is better than others
For the Chaplain, the Catholic religion is not the only way to develop spirituality. “When we compare religions, we realize that they all have a similar basis and values.”
He says that one of the best moments of his career was the day when a Muslim soldier came to ask him to pray with him. “There were no religious boundaries between us: we each prayed in our own way. The important thing is that we were together, oriented towards the same goal.”
Photo: Yves Bélanger
Several lunchtimes a week, Padre (Capt) Éric Généreux likes to help the Saint-Jean Garrison’s food services the by serving soup.
Kingston Chaplain advocates
for 2SLGBTQIA+ community by changing national military policies
| Emma-Jean Pakenham
Chaplain (Captain) Beatrice Gale is a transgender female dedicated to affecting policy change for the Canadian Armed Forces from within. She is a very impactful advocate for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. She has made tremendous breakthroughs for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community through her work with the Defence Team Pride Advisory Organization (DTPAO).
As the policy lead for the DTPAO, she has changed military policies and broken down barriers for the transgender community to help move the military towards complete inclusivity. She advises the chain of command, including the Chief of Defence Staff on discriminatory policies that need to be revised so they are more inclusive. She also ensures that new policies introduced to the military are not discriminatory to the pride community.
In 2023, Chaplain Gale changed the national policy that restricted the coverage of facial hair removal for transfeminine people. The removal of facial hair for transfeminine people is now authorized and funded, allowing them to fully express themselves freely. What may seem like a small change is a tremendous win for the transgender community and makes all the difference. This allows serving members to feel more included and accepted in the military. They are no longer dictated on whether they are allowed or are not allowed to remove their facial hair. Changing these policies can save lives and improve the mental well-being of many.
Not only did she change this policy, but she is currently working on removing another policy that does not allow transitioning transgender people to join the military without a waiver. This means that if you are actively using hormone therapy as a form of transition, you require a waiver to be signed. This is a barrier for the transgender community, and the 2SLGBTQIA+ community as a whole. Advocating for this change in policy will allow the military to be more accessible for people who are in active transition. If implemented, this change will be an amazing win for the whole 2SLGBTQIA+ community.
Advocating for marginalized groups at the national level is extremely important if we want to become a society that is accepting and loving of all. The work Beatrice Gale has done will allow transgender people to have more rights and opportunities in the future. She is fighting for the rights of all so that the generation after us will not need to fight to be treated as equal humans. Chaplain Gale’s main goal through her advocacy is simple: equal opportunity and support within the military. She wants to promote inclusivity for all and wants everyone to feel loved because we are all human at the end of the day.
She trains allies of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community
She is actively educating people to be more accepting of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community with her work as a positive space coordinator in the Kingston area. Here, she trains positive space ambassadors, who are visible allies for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community within their unit. Many military members and family members of someone in the military turn to positive space ambassadors for support and advice. Numerous people ask positive space ambassadors questions pertaining to the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, as they are positive, non-judgmental and friendly people you can turn to for help. Chaplain Gale helps train these positive space ambassadors to make changes within our community.
Captain Gale's actions help Canadians be kind to each other.
Photo: courtesy
Congratulations on your article, Emma-Jean!
Emma-Jean Pakenham is one of the four winners of the Canadian Forces Newspapers’ Youth Reporter Competition, launched by the Canadian Forces Morale and Welfare Services last February.
Originally from Kingston, Emma-Jean is 16 years old. She won the $1,000 scholarship attached to the Heroes in my community category of the competition.
Through training positive space ambassadors, Chaplain Gale is creating vocal allies for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community and increasing the amount of support they have within the military. She is also providing many with education that will allow them to change their discriminatory and fearful mindset to a loving and accepting mindset. Gale believes that the key to acceptance is education when she says, “We fear what we do not know. It's very important for us to educate people that being a part of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community is not a choice, this is how we are made. When we educate others, they become more accepting and inclusive.” This mindset has allowed her to help make our society as a whole more inclusive.
A Canadian hero
Her work as a Chaplain has also provided much support to many people. She has provided a safe and non-judgmental space for anyone to come to her with their problems and has truly made a difference in many people's lives through this. As a Chaplain, she has also been an officiate of many same-sex marriages. She has done so much to change the lives of others.
Through her advocacy, we can see that Captain Beatrice Gale is a Canadian hero. She is instrumental in changing the way the 2SLGBTIA+ community is treated within the military. Although her main focus through her work is to advocate for the rights of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, she truly is advocating for everyone to love one another. Every policy she changes, every person she educates, and every barrier she breaks further leads us to a country that is free of exclusion and hate. Without Beatrice Gale, Canada would not be the country it is today.
Get involved to change things in our region
CAF members and civilian employees of the Defence are welcome to join the Diversity + Team to improve diversity and inclusion in the workplace. People from the 2SLGBTQI+ community, Indigenous peoples, women, visible minorities, people with disabilities and people of various religions and spiritualities are the groups represented by the committee.
Information and subscription to the newsletter:
Emma-Jean Pakenham.
Pour lire les articles des autres gagnants
Celebrating Fall Magic in the Military Community
| CFMWS
As the fall unfolds with its kaleidoscope of colours and crisp air, the military community across the nation gears up to celebrate the magic of autumn. This year, the theme "Embrace the Enchantment" takes centre stage, bringing a sense of wonder and excitement to a myriad of events organized by Base and Wing departments.
The "Embrace the Enchantment" theme captures the essence of fall, where nature transforms, and the ordinary becomes extraordinary. It invites military families, service members, and the wider community to come together and immerse themselves in the charm of the season.
Mr. Ben Ouellette, Vice President of PSP Operations, shared his thoughts on this year's theme, saying, "We are thrilled to present the 'Embrace the Enchantment' theme, as it perfectly embodies the spirit of togetherness and celebration in our military community. These fall events are not only about entertainment but also about fostering a sense of camaraderie and creating cherished memories for our brave personnel and their families."
The fall events hold several benefits for the military community:
• Building Strong Bonds: Fall events create opportunities for service members and their families to bond with each other and fellow community members. It fosters a sense of belonging and support within the military community.
• Enhancing Resilience: Engaging in fun and adventurous activities can help reduce stress and enhance resilience among military personnel, providing a positive impact on their overall well-being.
• Supporting Local Businesses: Many events feature arts and crafts fairs, providing a platform for local artisans to showcase their talents. By supporting these events, the military community contributes to the growth of local economies.
• Promoting Family Time: Fall events offer the perfect setting for families to spend quality time together, creating lasting memories that strengthen family bonds.
To make the most of this enchanting season, readers are encouraged to explore cfmws.ca. The calendars showcase a diverse array of events taking place in different Base and Wing locations across the country. Whether it's a night of storytelling under the stars or a grand fall ball, these events promise to bring joy and wonder to all who attend.
Agenda
Zootherapy workshop
Thursday, October 19, 6 p.m.
Saint-Hubert Youth Community Integration Centre
For children of a deployed CAF member (9 to 17 years old) Free
The Military Family Resource Centre invites you to attend this workshop which also allows you to learn how to live better with the absence of a loved one.
Registration deadline: October 18
Information and registration
Pyjama breakfast
Sunday, November 5, 9 a.m.
MFRC Saint-Jean
For loved ones of a deployed CAF member Free
Halloween evening
Saturday, October 28, 4 p.m.
Saint-Hubert
For military and veterans families Free
The Military Family Resource Centre invites you to dress up and dance in a spooky atmosphere. Virtual haunted house tours with VR headsets, Halloween art projects, surprises and costume contests.
Registration deadline: October 18
Halloween activity
Sunday, October 29, 1 p.m.
Saint-Hubert Youth Community Integration Centre
For young people from military families (5 to 12 years old) Free
The Military Family Resource Centre invites young people to an afternoon of Halloween-themed activities.
Registration deadline: October 29
Information and registration
Information and registration
The Military Family Resource Centre invites you to make Christmas cards for your loved ones who will be away during the holidays.
Registration deadline: October 31
Information and registration
An avid pickleball fan
| Yves Bélanger, Servir
Contrary to what many people think, pickleball is not a new sport as it was created in 1965 in the United States. However, it is only in recent years that this discipline has really gained popularity. Marie-France Brunelle, Health Promotion specialist at the Saint-Jean Garrison, has been a true pickleball fan for five years. She happily tells us what she likes about this sport.
Pickleball is a mixture of several sports, including tennis (movements), badminton (court dimensions), table tennis (rigid surface racket) and racquetball (racket size). It is generally played in doubles, both indoors and outdoors. As with the majority of racket sports, the aim of the game is to send the ball into the opponent's playing area without the latter being able to return it.
The pickleball net is set at a height of 34 inches at the centre and 36 inches at the outer lines, two inches lower than tennis. It’s a game that encourages discussion and is very similar to tennis.
The ball is plastic, with holes, a bit like the one used for Cosom hockey. This game is accessible to both children and adults of any age.
A contagious game
Ms. Brunelle says that it was two friends, a couple, who initiated her and her husband. “We immediately became addicted to the game and joined our municipal league. At the moment, I play three times a week.”
Play pickleball at the Montreal Garrison 514-252-2777 # 2752
Play pickleball at the Saint-Jean Garrison
Quebec Pickleball Federation
Over the past few years, there has been a lot of promotion for pickleball. “When I started, there were 60 members in my town practicing this sport. Five years later, we are 360 players. It’s the fastest growing sport in North America.” Tournaments are therefore organized regularly across the province. “It’s really nice to go and defend our colours against teams from the region.”
She maintains that the regulations of this sporting discipline are very easy to assimilate. “You don’t need to have played a racket sport before to try pickleball. When you start practicing, you quickly develop good expertise.”
In addition, players must use strategy to win the game. “It’s a lot more than hitting a ball. Many people talk about pickleball as the chess game of racket sports.”
Among the advantages of pickleball, note the equipment which is inexpensive. “In addition, practicing this sport has little impact on our joints, unlike tennis. This sport also helps to develop our coordination, our reflexes and our cardio,” she concludes.
Where to play pickleball?
The majority of Quebec municipalities now have courts intended for pickleball. It is therefore easy to join a local league.
It is possible to play pickleball as part of the free gymnasium activities offered by the Saint-Jean Garrison’s Community Recreation Service. The Montreal Garrison sports centre also has two pickleball courts. This is a great way to try this discipline.
Marie-France Brunelle, Health Promotion specialist, has been playing pickleball for five years now. Photo: courtesy
The cold season is upon us and who says winter, says winter driving. Two crucial aspects must be planned in order to safely get through this season: maintenance and preparation. By ensuring the good mechanical condition of your vehicle and preparing yourself adequately, you will be well equipped to face the critical moments that can arise behind the wheel.
Vehicle maintenance is an element that is often overlooked. However, by respecting the maintenance schedule planned by the manufacturer and replacing tired mechanical components on time, you will avoid accumulating expensive bills.
First, a good seasonal interior and exterior cleaning will make your means of transport much more pleasant to use on a daily basis. Secondly, a good fall maintenance will generally include an engine oil change, cleaning the brakes, changing the engine and cabin air filters, as well as topping up the various fluids.
As for winter tires, they are mandatory from December 1 for all vehicles registered in Quebec. As soon as the temperature drops below 7 degrees Celsius, summer tires lose a lot of grip and this will considerably increase your braking distances. So, don’t wait until the first storm to think about them! This is also a good time to replace worn suspension components and perform an alignment. Your handling will be greatly improved.
Protect your treasure!
Also consider anti-rust treatment which will increase the lifespan of your vehicle and help you preserve its resale value.
To ensure you get adequate service, be wary of places with low prices or promising work done in record time. In order to properly carry out the work, the technician must first wash and dry the vehicle. It will also be necessary to dismantle certain interior panels in order to access critical places. These steps take time and will most certainly not be done in a low-cost location.
Choose a workshop that does not drill the vehicle. In fact, the majority of vehicles are already equipped with access holes allowing the product to be easily applied and drainage holes will only be required in specific locations and for certain vehicles only. Your trusted mechanic will be able to guide you through these steps.
Keep them in your vehicle
Here are 10 items that could be useful to you during the winter. You will find them in any major department store near you.
• A snow broom: those with a foam head have become the industry standard for preventing bodywork scratches
• Additional windshield washer fluid
• Grip plates and a folding shovel: compact, you will appreciate them during a storm
• A first aid kit: obligatory in several European countries, it should be in every vehicle, regardless of the season!
• Booster cables or a booster starter
• Warning triangles or distress flares
• A pair of gloves, a hat and a blanket: they will allow you to have a much better time if you have to stay in your vehicle for a long period of time
Always be ready to go!
Many people frequently encounter flat battery problems during the cold season. As recent cars are often equipped with a multitude of electrical accessories such as a remote start, heated benches and steering wheel, these cause a significant load on the battery. Combine this with short distances (15 minutes or 15 kilometres and less) and your battery will not have time to recharge adequately.
One solution is easily possible: install a smart charger. These inexpensive devices install easily, consume very little power and will preserve your battery. They can also be used for a vehicle that is stored or used infrequently.
To conclude, it is important to remember that the cold season requires you to adapt your driving. Leaving earlier and planning your trips are among the best ways to prevent an accident. Enjoy your ride!
Photo: Cpl Gauthier-Savard
PSPs: always there for 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!
Be like Corporal Logan!
On September 30, the community recreation department of Saint-Jean Garrison offered a hike on mount Saint-Grégoire. The sun was shining and walkers took advantage of this moment to admire the landscape and enjoy the change of colours.
Consult the fall program to find out all the activities offered.
Become a FitSpirit Ambassador
Would you like to make a difference and reverse the trend of physical inactivity among young girls? The role of FitSpirit Ambassador is ideal for you!
The FitSpirit program offers extracurricular activities to girls aged 12 to 17. The ambassadors are active women from all walks of life. They are invited to lead physical activity sessions in an attractive and innovative way in order to get adolescent girls to be more active. FitSpirit Ambassadors visit the program’s partner schools to lead physical activity or sports sessions. Training is offered to them online before visiting a first school.
As a partner of Sport et Loisir Montérégie, Community Recreation Department at the Saint-Jean Garrison supports the FitSpirit program. We therefore invite you to submit your application.
For information and/or submit your application: Claudia.Deflorio@forces.gc.ca
Corporal Tasheena Logan, from the Technical Services of the 2nd Canadian Division Support Group, with her son and Marc-Antoine Mercier, Outdoor Specialist from the community recreation of the Saint-Jean Garrison, during the hike.
Fall 2023 programming
Photo: courtesy
I am proud to serve you!
«Most CAF members face a lot of challenges and changes during their career and my team must continually review its strategies and ways of doing things to provide them with appropriate training. It brings a lot of diversity to my job and I love it!
On a daily basis, I develop physical preparation documents, particularly for Special Forces and Reserve units. I participate in the creation of sporting events and activities. I create personalized or group training programs for CAF members after identifying their needs. Finally, I supervise FORCES evaluations.
In my spare time, I remain an active guy: I hike and camp. I also play soccer and guitar.
«
Army Run: Get your refund
CAF members and their relatives who have completed the Canada Army Run or who will do it virtually between now and November 7 are eligible for a reimbursement by the Non-Public Property Committee - Montreal region. The amount will be determined based on the number of people who have made a request, no later than November 30, 2023.
The following people are eligible:
• Full-time CAF members (Regular Force and Reserve)
• Class A CAF members (must hold a PSP membership card)
• An immediate family member of an eligible CAF member (this person must hold a PSP membership card and present a proof of residence)
Eligibility criteria:
• Present a proof of payment for registration fees
• Present a proper receipt (bank statement and credit card not accepted)
• Present an official proof of participation (results) Requests must be sent once the race is completed. Any request received before this date will be refused. Refunds will be made by check within 30 business days or by bank deposit.
For information and to obtain the reimbursement request form: infoloisirst-jean@forces.gc.ca
Jonathan Gauthier-Larochelle Fitness and Sports Instructor – Montreal Garrison Joined PSP in June 2022
Photo: Facebook - Army Run
It’s time to read!
The Personnel Support Programs Community Recreation team officially launched its Croquelivres program in the military community on September 26. Thanks to the collaboration of the City of Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, which donated nearly 250 books, around ten croque-livres appeared at the Saint-Jean and Montreal Garrisons.
“The objective of the project is to offer CAF members, civilian Defence employees (Public service and Non-Public Funds) as well as their families, free access to books,” said Pierre Desmarteaux, Community Recreation Manager at the Saint-Jean Garrison. This is not about loans, but about sharing or exchanging books for adults and children. “Using the croque-livres is simple and free: you take a book and/or give one, without any constraints!”
Mr. Desmarteaux finally invited people who have books to donate to leave them at the reception of the Garrisons' sports centres. “They will be added to our inventory.”
Information: 450-358-7099 #6105
On September 15 and 16, more than 125 people participated in activities organized as part of the grand reopening of the climbing wall at Saint-Jean Garrison sports centre. In addition to enjoying the entertainment, visitors were able to try slacklining and take part in a climbing competition. They also enjoyed a barbecue meal.
If you are interested in climbing, the Saint-Jean Garrison community recreation department offers free or supervised sessions. Group training with accreditation also takes place.
Information: marc-antoine.mercier2@forces.gc.ca
Where are they installed?
At the Montreal Garrison
At the entrance to the sports centre
At the Saint-Jean Garrison
• Military Family Resource Centre (at the entrance)
• Medical clinic (at the entrance)
• Sports centre reception
• Fieldhouse (at the entrance)
• Mega Rotunda
• Alouette/Patriote Mess (at the entrance)
• H-101 Technical services (at the entrance)
• Mega Blue Sector - Canadian Forces Leadership and Recruit School
• Mega Blue Sector - Canadian Forces Language School Detachment
Master Warrant Officer Gaétan St-Laurent, Sergeant Major of the Montreal Garrison, Lieutenant-Colonel François Laroche, Commander of the Operations Services of the 2nd Canadian Division Support Group, Marie-Josée Bouchard, Recreation Coordinator, Sébastien Despars, Senior Manager of Personnel Support Programs of the Montreal region, Colonel Serge Ménard, Commander of the 2nd Canadian Division Support Group (2 CDSG), Pierre Desmarteaux, Community Recreation Manager, Chief Warrant Officer Sonia Lizotte, Sergeant Major of the 2 CDSG, as well as Major Maxime Decelles-Trudel and Master Warrant Officer Pascal Simoneau, respectively Commander and Sergeant Major of the 41 Canadian Forces Health Services Centre.
Photo: Yves Bélanger
Sports in a nutshell
RMC Saint-Jean holds the Terry Fox Run
On September 14, Officer Cadets and Naval Cadets from the Royal Military College Saint-Jean took part in the Terry Fox Run. They traveled more than five kilometres, carrying the torch of hope, just as the Canadian activist did decades ago during his legendary cross-country journey. It was a day full of solidarity and inspiration where everyone came together to support cancer research. Some $740 was raised during this activity. These funds will be donated to the Terry Fox Foundation.
Les Remparts stand out
On September 16, Les Remparts completed their first cross-country competition on the Réseau du sport étudiant du Québec universitaire (Quebec university student sports network) circuit. It was the great return of the Royal Military College Saint-Jean which had not participated since the mid-1990s.
Les Remparts men's team obtained excellent results with an 8th position out of 11 institutions, ahead of the teams from the universities of Ottawa, Carleton and Chicoutimi.
Photo: MRC Saint-Jean
Photo: RMC Saint-Jean
2023 CAF Sports Awards Ceremony
Three local athletes stand out
Three CAF members from the Montreal region, Captain Valérie Leone, Warrant Officer Céline Picotin and Chief Warrant Officer Guy Thivierge, are nominated for the 35 th Canadian Armed Forces Sports Awards Ceremony.
The candidacies of the different athletes were proposed by their chain of command. The ceremony will take place on October 18 at the Canadian War Museum in Ottawa.
Captain Valérie Leone (powerlifting)
From the 34 Canadian Brigade Group Headquarters, she is nominated in the CAF Female Athlete of the Year category.
Warrant Officer Céline Picotin (hockey)
From the Canadian Forces Transition Centre, she is nominated in the CAF Sports Honour Roll category.
Chief Warrant Officer Guy Thivierge (hockey)
From the 2 Canadian Division Headquarters and Joint Task Force (East), he is nominated in the CAF Sports Honour Roll category.
If you don't have a gym, it will go to you!
The Personnel Support Programs team recently acquired a gym on wheels, called the BeaverFit. It makes it possible to serve the different Reserve units which do not have a room dedicated to physical training.
This summer, this 5,000 pound (2,267 kg) mobile gymnasium was parked a few weeks at the Farnham training site to support the training of Reservists from the 34 Canadian Brigade Group.
Photo: courtesy
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