Publication requests should be sent in Word format at servir@forces.gc.ca. The manager reserves the right to reject or modify any editorial or advertising content.
ISSN 0384-0417
Servir is an authorized unofficial publication, published bimonthly with permission of the 2nd Canadian Division Support Group Commander. The opinions and points of views expressed are not necessarily those of DND, CAF and CFMWS/NPFs Personnel. The articles published in this newspaper are the property of Servir and cannot be published, used or reproduced without the authorization of the manager or author.
A recognized day since 1985
It was in 1985 that the General Assembly of the United Nations (UN) established International Volunteer Day to highlight the importance of the contribution of volunteers to the economic and social development of communities.
The resolution adopted to this effect calls on governments and organizations to take the necessary measures to raise awareness of the important contribution that volunteering makes, encourage individuals from all trades or professions to become volunteers and promote activities that will raise awareness the contribution that volunteers make through their actions.
Thanks!
Each year, on December 5, International Volunteer Day celebrates volunteerism around the world. The Military Family Resource Centre (MFRC) of the Montreal region is taking this opportunity to highlight the work accomplished by all the volunteers working within the community.
Special thanks to those who are involved with the MFRC. Your commitment is essential to our organization and contributes to the richness of our community.
To join our team of dynamic volunteers, do not hesitate to contact us.
Once again, congratulations for your continued involvement!
Marie Belle Meunier and Maude Laflamme, Community Integration Agents, MFRC - Montreal
Photo:
From left to right: Catherine Carrier, Stéphanie L. Sauvé, Jessica Stafford, and Maryse Valiquette, volunteers during an event they organized for Christmas.
Many tributes paid in the region
Every morning of November 11, citizens join members of the military community to pay tribute to the bravery of the thousands of CAF members, women and men, who gave their lives in the name of freedom. In several municipalities in the region, ceremonies took place and Servir presents you with an overview. These commemorations are opportunities to proudly highlight the contribution of the CAF members to world history and the dedication of those who continue to exercise this profession with all the risks it entails. Respect also to families who have always experienced worry and tirelessly support their loved ones.
At this time when world peace is more fragile than ever, let us salute the work of the CAF members who protect and defend it. So that at night, our children can continue to fall asleep peacefully...
The ceremonies
As tradition dictates, the Montreal Garrison held a ceremony to commemorate November 11. It took place in the presence of CAF members and members of the Defence Team.
Montreal Garrison
Photo: courtesy
Photo: courtesy
Photo: courtesy
The ceremonies
Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu
This year, only one ceremony took place in the municipality and brought together the troops of the Saint-Jean Garrison and the Royal Military College Saint-Jean (RMC Saint-Jean). It began with a parade which started at the Royal 22e Régiment Square, located on Frontenac street. The numerous CAF members, Veterans, future officers, dignitaries and citizens then gathered at the RMC Saint-Jean cenotaph.
Photo: MCpl Jeff Clément –Imagery Saint-Jean
Photo: MCpl Jeff Clément
Imagery
Photo:
MCpl Jeff Clément –Imagery Saint-Jean
The ceremonies
Place du Canada, Montreal
On November 11, various Regular Force and Reserve units, including the Black Watch (Royal Highland Regiment) of Canada, the Canadian Grenadier Guards, His Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Donnacona and the 2nd Canadian Division Headquarters, were present at Place du Canada to honour and commemorate the sacrifices of our heroes.
Pointe-Claire
The Prime Minister of Quebec, François Legault, was present with his wife, Isabelle Brais, Brigadier-General Dave Abboud, Commander of the 2 nd Canadian Division, and the Mayor of Montreal, Valérie Plante.
Photo:
MCpl Dominic Duchesne-Beaulieu
Photo:
S2
Charlène Lebeuf HMCS Donnacona
Photo: Facebook Black Watch
Once again this year, the Black Watch (Royal Highland Regiment) of Canada participated in the ceremony at Place du Canada.
Members of His Majesty’s Canadian Ship Donnacona paraded through the streets of downtown Montreal to reach Place du Canada.
On November 11, reservists from the Canadian Grenadier Guards commemorated those who have served and continue to serve our country in times of war, conflict and peace by standing guard at the National Field of Honour.
Gatineau
On November 11, the Commander of the Régiment de Hull, Lieutenant-Colonel Marc-André Blais, and some members of the unit were invited to the Gatineau Olympic ice rink to commemorate Remembrance Day.
Photo: Facebook Canadian Grenadier Guards
Photo: Facebook Régiment de Hull
The ceremonies Sherbrooke
On Saturday, November 11, Remembrance Day celebrations took place in the presence of many members of the Fusiliers de Sherbrooke and The Sherbrooke Hussars. Parade and ceremony were on the program.
Saint-Hyacinthe and Drummondville
Once again this year, on November 11, the 6e Bataillon, Royal 22e Régiment honored its regimental motto, Je me souviens [I remember], by participating in the ceremonies of these two municipalities.
Trois-Rivières
On November 11, the Remembrance Day Parade brought together members of the Royal Canadian Legion, His Majesty’s Canadian Ship Radisson, the 12e Régiment blindé du Canada, the Cadets and Veterans.
Photo: Facebook Fusiliers de Sherbrooke
Photo: HMCS Radisson
The ceremonies
Laval and Saint-Jérôme
To commemorate the end of the Great War and the signing of the armistice, members of the 4e Bataillon, Royal 22e Régiment paraded on November 11 in these two municipalities to remember those who preceded them.
Photo: Facebook
4e
Bataillon, Royal 22e Régiment
Photo: Facebook
Bataillon, Royal
Farnham
On November 11, the Canadian Forces Leadership and Recruit School took part in a ceremony at Memorial Square.
Photo: CFLRS
Saint-Jean Veterans at the 2023 Remembrance Dinner
| Yves LaBarre, Veteran
On November 2, members of the Association des vétérans du Royal 22e Régiment of Saint-Jean-sur Richelieu participated in a benefit meal at the Summerlea golf club in Vaudreuil to highlight the courage and commitment of the soldiers of yesterday and today.
The event took place under the presidency of the Honorable J. Michel Doyon, 29th Lieutenant Governor of Quebec, and Major-General Frédéric Mariage.
Brigadier-General Gaston Côté, a recognized geopolitical analyst and commentator, spoke to the guests about developments in the current conflict in Ukraine.
The dinner took place in the great regimental tradition with background music and regimental marches, offered by the Musique des Fusiliers Mont-Royal. The funds collected were donated to the Quebec Veterans Foundation [our translation for].
I remember
From left to right: Captain (Ret’d) Gabriel Deschênes, Major-General (Ret’d) Alain Forand, Master Warrant Officer (Ret’d) Jean-Guy Bonneau, Captain (Ret’d) Frederick Lawrence, Warrant Officer (Ret’d) Yves LaBarre, Major (Ret’d) Roger Hétu, Lieutenant-Colonel (Ret’d) Norman Gervais, Lieutenant-Colonel (Ret’d) Ronald Gagnon and Soldier (Ret’d) Jacques Prud’Homme.
Photo: MGen (Ret’d) Alain Forand
Thank you for helping us achieve our goals!
| Robert Picard, R&D section responsible, Tech Svcs
Technical Services (Tech Svcs) are very proud to announce that, thanks to your support and collaboration, the Repair and Disposal (R&D) section of the Montreal Garrison has been recognized as one of the leaders in sustainability in 2022 as part of the battery collection and packaging program. Since our registration in the Call2Recycle program in 2012, the section has reached the milestone of more than 10 million kilograms of recycled batteries.
Throughout the last 10 years, the R&D section has collaborated with hosted and integrated units, including civilian and military employees, environmental officers and unit hazmat material officers, who participated in building the structure and process for recycling batteries on the Montreal Garrison.
Through the determination and commitment of partners like you, we continue to reduce solid waste and associated carbon emissions by diverting as many batteries from landfill as possible.
This milestone of 10 million kilograms of recycled batteries represents your unwavering commitment and support. While this announcement is important in terms of the progress we have made in recycling, our work is far from done.
As the use of battery-powered devices (such as electric tools and vehicles) continues to increase, Garrison Montreal’s R&D section will increasingly need responsible management of batteries at the end of their life.
Tech Svcs are grateful for your continued support as it will expand knowledge, adapt and respond to battery recycling needs throughout the coming decades. Together, we are ready to take the next important steps ahead of us!
Thank you for your continued partnership and, if you have any questions, do not hesitate to contact us at:
From left to right: Major Erica Wong, Patrice St-Louis, Robert Picard, Master Corporal Jean-Pierre Bessette and Master Warrant Officer Patrick Bernier.
Photo: Sgt Lyndia Villenenuve
A Historic moment for The Black Watch
(Royal Highland Regiment) of
Canada
| Second Lieutenant Felipe Posada, The Black Watch
September 10 th marked three significant milestones in the regiment’s history, celebrating not only a change of command ceremony but also the museum’s reopening and the launch of the comprehensive three-volume regimental history.
while the lightning, audiovisual support, and signage ensure an immersive experience.
Another crowning achievement was the culmination of extensive research and scholarly dedication resulting in the publication of the long-awaited regimental history. In three hardcover volumes (1,400 pages) spanning
After years of meticulous and extensive renovations, The Black Watch proudly reopened the doors to its esteemed regimental museum, originally inaugurated in 1949 by Field Marshall the Lord Wavell, unveiling a revitalized space, structurally sound, and curatorially enhanced to showcase the rich tapestry of the regiment’s history. Nestled within the heart of the Bleury Street Armoury, the regimental museum is a living monument to valour, sacrifice, and tradition. Its walls and displays are adorned with artefacts, uniforms, medals, diaries and poignant memorabilia that recount the stirring narrative of The Black Watch.
Visitors were greeted by the sight of refurbished displays, carefully arranged to chronicle the regiment’s roots, its Highland tradition, inception, pivotal roles in various conflicts, and evolution throughout the years. The new displays, designed with the help of a curator, recount the unit’s history in chronological order
The reopening of the museum and the publication of the comprehensive regimental history books stands as a testament to the unwavering dedication of all those involved, ensuring that the heritage of The Black Watch continues to inspire generations to come. Information on Museum: museum@blackwatchcanada.com
three centuries, the late Lieutenant Colonel Roman Jarymowycz recounts the story of the oldest Highland regiment in the country. He traced its history from the roots when soldiers, settlers, and militia volunteers rallied to defend the southern borders of their adopted country against invasion from the United States all the way to the unit’s involvement in Afghanistan and current operations. Drawing on diaries, letters, classified documents, and the extensive regimental archive, Jarymowycz weaved the strands of a complex story into an epic narrative of a resolute collective of officers and NCMs of The Black Watch from the 18th to the 21st century. The three hardcover volumes are available for purchase at the Regimental Museum Shop or the McGill-Queens University Press website and have a retail price of $199.00 plus tax.
Photo: courtesy of The Black Watch
Black Watch soldiers enjoy the revitalized museum installations.
Regimental History Books published by McGill-Queens University Press.
Photo: courtesy of The Black Watch
Outgoing Commanding Officer Lieutenant Colonel Francis Roy, Honorary Colonel Bruce Bolton and incoming Commanding Officer Lieutenant Colonel Robert Unger inaugurate the recently renovated museum.
Photo: courtesy of The Black Watch
Bernard Leclerc, a road safety expert
| Yves Bélanger, Servir
The 2nd Canadian Division Support Group (2 CDSG), is a formation made up of seven units and services providing services to the Saint-Jean and Montreal Garrisons, as well as to Base Valcartier. Because its staff are its most valuable resource, 2 CDSG presents to you today Mr. Bernard Leclerc, road safety trainer-investigator at the Resource Conservation Service.
I am Bernard Leclerc, veteran of the Canadian Armed Forces. For more than 28 years, I worked in the Regular Force and the Reserve. I am proud to say that I have worked in the road safety section of the Resource Conservation Service for six years. During this time, I was able to learn valuable skills in the field of security and customer service.
I am particularly happy with the teamwork we did when designing the SharePoint site for our section. Everything is the result of collaborative work by staff from the Saint-Jean and Montreal Garrison as well as Valcartier Base. We have developed a training schedule, a collision record library, a DND 404 permit log, and a corrective action tracking Wiki page for collision records. This working method has made it possible to considerably reduce the sending of emails.
In my free time, I am passionate about walking, camping, contact with nature and meditation. I am confident that these skills have also been beneficial to my work and professional growth.
I am excited to continue working for the Resource Conservation Service and contributing to its success. I will be leaving my position with the aim of taking a well-deserved retirement next year. Until then, I am always looking for opportunities to learn new skills and help my unit and organization reach new heights.
I am proud to be part of this big family that is the 2 CDSG.
The Resource Conservation Service
Specialists from the Resource Conservation Service ensure compliance with the laws, directives, standards and regulations applicable to the Department of National Defence in the following areas: general security, environment, road safety, management of hazardous materials and security of radioactive materials. They fulfill their mandate in shared responsibility with other organizations of the 2nd Canadian Division and Joint Task Force (East) according to risk management and service standards. Through national programs, studies and relevant technical opinions, multidisciplinary inspections and specialized courses in the different fields of competence of the service, various specialists play the role of technical advisors, inspectors and trainers to commanders and staff of units and formations of the 2nd Canadian Division. The road safety team has five civilian employees and eight CAF members.
Bernard Leclerc, in the office of the Resource Conservation Service at the Saint-Jean Garrison.
Photo: courtesy
CAF Members
Your unit will be better equipped to support you in your transition or recovery
| Yves Bélanger, Servir
On November 22, the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) Transition Centre of the Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu region held a symposium for Adjutants and Human Resources Supervisors at the Saint-Jean Garrison. The goal of the activity: to equip them so that they are able to properly guide members of their unit who are considering changing careers, leaving military life or who need support following an injury or illness.
Sonia Sirois is the Services and Transition Manager at the Saint-Jean Transition Centre. She explains that this event was the first step in a series of activities that her organization wishes to organize in order to promote its services to military customers. “The SaintJean Transition Centre completed the implementation of the new transition capacity last summer. Now, our objective is to go into the units to make ourselves better known and,
above all, to inform the CAF members of what we can do for them when they wish to reorient their career within the CAF or simply leave the military life.”
Ms. Sirois notes that several CAF members associate her organization with helping wounded soldiers. “It’s our best-known service. However, our mission is also to ensure that the CAF members who changes career or leaves the CAF feels supported throughout their transition.”
Ms. Sirois, who will leave her job in the coming days for a well-deserved retirement, admits to having loved working at the Transition Centre. “Working here is great. We are here to make a difference and that is very rewarding. Our goal is to help CAF members. This is what makes us strong!” Karine Roy, currently Transition Advisor at the Transition Centre, will replace her.
Giving tools to Adjutants and Supervisors to better help you
The recent symposium provided an opportunity to meet around forty Adjutants and Human Resources supervisors. “They are the ones who will send the information down to the troops,” explains Ms. Sirois. “By being better informed about the services of the Transition Centre, they will be able to guide their members even more effectively. Everyone will win!”
Captain Daniel Goulet, Adjutant at the Canadian Forces Leadership and Recruit School, was among the participants. He greatly appreciated the information and tools offered. “This day gave me the opportunity to network with my team and deepen my knowledge. In this way, we will ensure that within the CFLRS, tasks are carried out according to the procedures established by the Transition Centre.”
Captain Nathalie Hamel, Human Resources Officer at the Regional Cadet Support Unit (East), described the Transition Centre team as dynamic and committed. “They introduced us to easy-to-access tools and practical guides that will help us greatly in supporting our members.”
For his part, Captain Jérémie B. Robitaille, Adjutant at the 2nd Canadian Ranger Patrol Group, said he appreciated the listening from the members of the Transition Centre team. “Being new in my position, I have dealt with them for several of our members. The symposium really gave me an overview of the structure and allowed me to better understand this organization.”
Photo:
Yves Bélanger
Sonia Sirois, Services and Transition Manager at the Saint-Jean Transition Centre, will retire in the coming days.
Photo: courtesy
Around fifty people participated in the Symposium of the CAF Transition Centre in the Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu region.
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 community recreation department team. Left to right, back row: Marc-Antoine Mercier, Outdoor Specialist, Claudia Di Florio, Administrative Assistant, Samuel Sénécal, Group Class Specialist. Front: Gabrielle Sexton, Recreation Coordinator, Pierre Desmarteaux, Manager, and Marie-Josée Bouchard, Recreation Coordinator.
Photo: Charles Thibodeau
Join the team Discover the different PSPs’ platforms
A wide range of services
to keep you in shape and in a good mood!
| Yves Bélanger, Servir
Over the past few years, the community recreation department at the Saint-Jean Garrison has taken a new direction. This has enabled its team to offer more sports, outdoor, artistic and recreation activities to both the military community and the general public.
Since 2020, the team has been headed by Pierre Desmarteaux, who has many years’ experience in the recreation industry. As soon as he took office, Mr. Desmarteaux announced that he wanted to breathe new life into the department. Thanks to a motivated team, he has succeeded with flying colours in just three years. “I’m fortunate to be surrounded by dynamic people who are committed to offering our customers first-rate activities and services. We have also hired two specialized instructors: one for outdoor activities and one for group courses. This allows us to serve our customers even better,” he says. “We offer recreation, artistic, sporting and outdoor activities. They’re aimed at the whole family, from children to retirees!”
Team members have literally turned the corner, and for the past two years have been working along four lines: striving for excellence, innovating, opening up to the community and developing a sense of belonging. “These orientations are at the heart of our 2020-2025 strategic plan. We are completing the implementation phase, and consolidation will begin in the coming months.”
Tangible results
Barely two years after making the switch, Pierre Desmarteaux says the results are already being felt. “We’ve started renting out our facilities, and already demand for this service has tripled. I’m very pleased. We’ve literally given ourselves the means to achieve our aspirations.”
Various partnerships have benefited the community recreation department. “The agreement with the City of Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu’s recreation department has enabled us to attract citizens to our facilities who were unaware of our services.”
The partnership with Loisir et Sport Montérégie (LSM) has enabled them to obtain new sports and outdoor equipment, valued at $75,000, free of charge. “Our members can rent equipment from our sports and outdoors store or borrow equipment from LSM, if the activities are part of unit cohesion activities or are integrated into the recreation department’s program. This agreement has enabled us to increase our range of equipment by 50%, without spending a single dollar!”
The partnership with the Centre de plein air l’Estacade gives the community recreation department free access to the centre’s facilities, located on the banks of the Richelieu River in Saint-Paul-de-l’Île-aux-Noix. We can now offer even more services to our customers, such as cohesion days for military units.”
They win an award
The efforts of the Saint-Jean Garrison’s community recreation team have paid off. On November 14, at the gala of the Association des Camps du Québec congress, it received the 2023 Excellence in Innovation and Development award along with its partner, the Centre de plein air l’Estacade.
“We received the award for our agreement with l’Estacade, which allows military personnel, our subscribers and members of our recreation clubs to use l’Estacade’s facilities and equipment free of charge, in exchange for which we commit to lending them equipment from our sports and outdoor store if it’s available,” explains Pierre Desmarteaux, Community Recreation Manager.
In the day camp and summer camp network, this is a unique partnership in Quebec. “This innovative approach ensures that more people benefit from the services of both our organizations, while enabling us to meet our commitments to our respective clienteles.”
Mr. Desmarteaux is very proud of his team. “By doing things differently and being imaginative and creative, we have been able to innovate in developing our services.”
From left to right, Pierre Desmarteaux and his partners from the Centre plein air l’Estacade: Yannick Godin, General Manager, Laurie-Anne Sauriol, Outdoor Programs Director, Marc-André Campagne, Infrastructure and Material Resources Director, Ludovic Bernier-Hardy, Communications and Human Resources Director, and Frédéric Plasse, Youth Programs Director.
Photo: courtesy
A host of community services!
• Access to training rooms and gyms
• Group courses and outdoor activities
• Winter and summer RV parking service (Montreal Garrison and Farnham and Saint-Hubert sites)
• Recreation clubs (hunting, shooting and golf)
Plein soleil day camp (one regular camp and two specialized camps: sports and outdoor activities, and art and cultural activities)
Equipment rental at the sports and outdoors stores (Saint-Jean and Montreal Garrisons)
Rental of indoor facilities
• climbing wall
• 4 training rooms
• 5 gymnasiums (16 badminton/pickleball courts)
• 7 volleyball courts
• 4 basketball courts
• 2 indoor racetracks
Community recreation department can also facilitate the rental of the Saint-Jean Garrison auditorium and the three messes.
Rental of outdoor facilities
• 3 soccer fields
• 4 lighted tennis courts
• 1 lighted ball court
• 1 sand volleyball court
• 3 grass beach volleyball courts
• 1 lighted deck-hockey surface
Discover the recreation services
Saint-Jean Garrison Recreation Department
Plein soleil day camp
Winter 2024 program
Photo: courtesy
Photo: courtesy
Photo: courtesy
Photo: courtesy
Photo: courtesy
How to benefit from the recreation department services
The services and activities of the Saint-Jean Garrison community recreation department are open to everyone. Different plans are offered, with costs varying according to your status (CAF members, civilian Defence employee, Veteran or citizen).
• Classic PSP card
• Unlimited PSP card
• Plein air PSP card
• Group course pass (10 or 25 entries)
• Daily rates
She is the dean of community recreation department
| Yves Bélanger, Servir
Marie-Josée Bouchard began working in the community recreation department in 2011. “I was an Administrative Assistant. Two years ago, I became Recreation Coordinator and I really enjoy my job!”
Ms. Bouchard explains that, prior to joining the Personnel Support Programs (PSP), she worked in customer service for a family business in the Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu area. “I’ve always loved this aspect of the job. When I saw that a position was available in the community recreation department, I was quick to apply.”
Proud of the changes
Marie-Josée Bouchard’s main responsibilities include managing the three recreational clubs (shooting, hunting and golf) and the recreational vehicle parking lots. She is also responsible for a dozen recreation employees: two clerks, a receptionist and gym attendants. “My role is to make sure they all provide excellent service to our members.” More recently, she has been managing the croque-livres project, which is very close to her heart.
Ms. Bouchard explains that she has seen the community recreation department metamorphose at a furious pace over the past two years. “Our services have evolved a great deal. I’m thinking in particular of outdoor outings, which are more numerous and diversified than ever. We’ve also added new subscription formulas to our services that better meet our customers’ needs.”
Among the major changes, she notes the reopening of the climbing wall and its upgrading. “Our organization now offers certification courses and free climbing days. Our summer day camp offers three formulas: regular,
specialized in sports and outdoor activities, and specialized in artistic and cultural activities. Our various partnerships broaden our horizons and attract citizens to our facilities.”
Team strength
For Marie-Josée Bouchard, one of the community recreation department’s greatest strengths is its sense of teamwork. “We share the same vision of development. If our projects come to fruition, it’s also thanks to the support of PSP management and the Canadian Forces Morale and Welfare Services. As Franck Piccard so aptly put it, success belongs to everyone. It’s all about teamwork.”
Photo: courtesy
Marie-Josée Bouchard has worked in the community recreation department at the Saint-Jean Garrison for twelve years.
Find out about the different plans, and terms and conditions
Photo: courtesy
The Saint-Jean Garrison sports and outdoor store rents a lot of sports and outdoor equipment.
The MFRC wishes you HappyHolidays
The Holiday Season is the perfect opportunity to remember the successes of the year and look forward to future projects. For the Military Family Resource Centre (MFRC) – Montreal Region, these projects are numerous and diverse and are all dedicated to promoting the well-being of military families.
The members of the Board of Directors as well as the entire team wish you all the best for the year 2024. May this coming year bring you success, joy and happiness.
We look forward to seeing you again in our services in 2024!
Wishes that come from far away
In less than 20 days, most of us will be taking a break from our daily lives to celebrate the holiday season with our loved ones. However, this will not be the case for several CAF members currently deployed around the world. We salute their dedication and that of their loved ones who support them. Our thoughts are with you.
Wishes that come from far away
Photo:
Cpl Charles
Photo: Cpl Lynette
Dang
Photo: Cpl Lynette
Dang
Photo: courtesy
“Hi! I am currently deployed in Egypt on Operation CALUMET. I wish my family, my friends and all Montrealers a happy holiday season.”
Sergeant Francis Gagnon, Operation CALUMET (Sinai Peninsula, Egypt)
Photo: courtesy
“Happy New Year, health and best wishes from Poland!” A soldier from the 51 st Field Ambulance, Operation UNIFIER (Poland)
In October, members of Task Force Jerusalem participated in the assisted departure of evacuees from Tel Aviv, Israel aboard a Royal Canadian Air Force CC-150 Polaris aircraft.
In October, a member of the Canadian Armed Forces deployed to Latvia trains during Exercise BOLD FUSILIER in Tapa, Estonia.
Members of the Canadian Armed Forces mechanized infantry deployed as part of the NATO Enhanced Forward Presence Battle Group in Latvia train at Camp Ādaži last October.
Avr (T) Li Zhe Zhao Corps Svcs – 2 CDSG Promotion
WO Stéphane Michaud Corps Svcs – 2 CDSG 2 CDSG Commander’s Coin for his leadership that has inspired his subordinates. His judgment, experience
Sgt Nadine Casamayou Corps Svcs – 2 CDSG Promotion
Sgt Mark Wolfson CAF TC - Saint-Jean CAF TG Commanding team’s Coin for helping
Sgt Cedric Arsenault CAF TC - Saint-Jean CF Decoration (12 years of service)
Lt(N) Mario Richard 4 H Svc Gp
rd Clasp - CF Decoration (42 years of service)
In a nutshell
Enter the Servir Newspaper Readers’ Appreciation Contest!
Tell us what is your favourite article in the November or December edition and get a chance to win a fun package!
SERVIR NEWSPAPER Contest for our readers
Dear regular readers of Servir Newspaper, we’re delighted to invite you to our firstever Readers’ Appreciation Contest, an exciting opportunity to celebrate your passion for reading and your commitment to our publication.
How to enter?
Select your favourite article from our November or December edition: Browse the pages of Servir Newspaper and choose the article that captured your attention, broadened your perspective or piqued your interest.
Write your review: Express your thoughts clearly and constructively. We encourage you to share what particularly caught your attention, ideas that piqued your curiosity, or topics that deserve further exploration.
Submit your review: Send your review at servir@forces.gc.ca before Friday, January 12, 2024.
All submissions will be put into a prize draw of a fun package offered by Canadian Tire. The name of the winner will be announced in the January edition.
We will be able to inform you even better!
We look forward to reading your thoughtful reviews and seeing how Servir Newspaper has enriched your reading experience. Your views are vital to us, and this contest is a way of thanking you for your loyalty and commitment to the editorial quality we strive to maintain.
Participate, share your thoughts, and together, let’s make this Reader Appreciation Contest a memorable celebration of Servir Newspaper community.
Happy reading!
The Servir Newspaper team
Send your best wishes for the Holiday Season
Do you work at the Saint-Jean Garrison? Would you like to offer your best wishes to your colleagues? Do not hesitate to use the free mail service of the Community Recreation Department of Personnel Support Programs!
Greeting cards are available at the sports centre reception desk (M-200). Choose your favourite, write your wishes inside and drop it in the beautiful mailbox installed in the same location. Card delivery will take place every Friday until December 15.
Check out The Courier News!
Connecting the serving members and the local community, The Courier News has been the go-to for everything happening at 4 Wing Cold Lake since 1955. The Courier News covers operational stories, highlights of current 4 Wing staff, local news, sports, events, and more for the hardworking Canadian Forces personnel at Cold Lake.
The Courier News has operated as a digital media platform since 2021, allowing for articles, photos, video and other ways to connect to the reader. The Courier News is proud to be a part of 4 Wing Personnel Support Programs, a division of Canadian Forces Morale and Welfare Services.
Looking to have your story told at CFB Cold Lake? Email us at communications@couriernews.ca to get started.
The Wildcats in concert
The Band of the 438 Tactical Helicopter Squadron will perform a Christmas concert on Sunday, December 10, at 2:00 p.m. at the auditorium of Saint-Jean Garrison. A voluntary contribution will be welcome as an entry fee and the amount raised will be donated to the Chaplains’ Charity Fund.
Tickets are available at the chaplaincy office located in room G-123 of the Méga at Saint-Jean Garrison, from your unit chaplain or at the door on the day of the concert. First come, first served!
Information: 450 358-7099 # 7420
Get your high school diploma
If you are a member of the Regular or Reserve Forces of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) and do not currently have a high school diploma, the High school education initiative (HSEI) is for you! This is a great opportunity to earn it while continuing to serve in the CAF.
Did you know that you may need fewer credits or units than you thought to graduate from high school? If you have completed your tenth grade, your Basic Military Qualification (BQM) or your Basic Military Officer Qualification (BM[O]Q) and have gained personal and professional experiences, you may receive credits or units for the obtaining a high school diploma. Contact your local district, service centre or school board for more information.
For more information, consult the HSEI or your local CAF Transition Centre for step-by-step instructions on the policies and regulations governing the application and reimbursement processes for educational upgrading purposes. They will be able to tell you about the CAF self-development program, which supports the self-development of CAF members throughout their careers, as well as the high school programs offered in your province.
Montreal Garrison Transition Centre: 514 252-2777 # 6391
In November, large-scale exercises took place at the Montreal Garrison and at the Royal Military College Saint-Jean (RMC Saint-Jean). Exercise BASTION VERROUILLÉ aims to ensure that members of the Defence Team are ready.
At the Montreal Garrison
Captain Frédéric Thouin, Public Affairs Officer at the 2nd Canadian Division Support Group (2 CDSG), explains that in the current global context where the threat level can escalate quickly, it is important to have keen vigilance and increased readiness regarding security posture. “This is why, annually, the 2 CDSG conducts the BASTION VERROUILLÉ exercise in order to check the level of preparation of the personnel.”
On November 2, members of the Defence Team
faced a simulation with an actor representing a critical situation. “This event made it possible to see the effectiveness of the system in place and to analyze its shortcomings with a view to improving the procedures to follow during a critical incident.”
At RMC Saint-Jean
The Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu Police Department, the Corporation du Fort St-Jean (CFSJ) and members of the 5 Military Police Regiment were present at RMC Saint-Jean on November 14 to work collaboratively in the framework of a similar exercise. The scenario: an active shooter and an attacker armed with a bladed weapon burst into RMC Saint-Jean.
The simulation was very realistic, with the presence of made-up extras on the scene, some playing injured people. It took place in completely safe conditions and the
If a critical incident occurs
Here are some important points to remember:
• Maintain silence and calm;
• Quickly close access to the building to optimize time to hide.
Things you should not do:
• Scream and panic;
• Try to be the hero of the situation.
neighbourhood was notified. “This exercise was very educational, because it allowed us to pool and deploy a whole range of resources and reactions that we have available in the event of an emergency,” explains Yvan Heppell, Operational Support Director at the CFSJ .
In addition to creating an exceptional partnership between different police, civilian and military organizations, the objective of such exercises is to allow police forces to test their intervention procedures and techniques. They also make it possible to practice site emergency plans and ensure the safety of buildings.
Photo: RMC Saint-Jean
The exercise took place at Montreal Garrison on November 2.
Photo: Claude Tourville
It was on November 14 that the staff Royal Military College Saint-Jean participated in the exercise.
Giving to make a difference
Kill three birds with one stone!
For two days, the NDWCC Personnel Support Programs (PSP) committee held a children’s thrift store at the Saint-Jean Garrison. In October, the committee collected donations from users of the Garrison and then sold them on November 1 and 2. “We raised $485,” says Roxanne Laniel, campaign Manager for the PSPs. “In the current economic context, we are very proud to have offered a useful, economical and eco-responsible activity. We will be back next year, that’s for sure!”
A lucky winner!
More than $1,250 thanks to his sugar pies
Servir
Sergeant François Pomerleau, from the Canadian Forces Leadership and Recruit School, baked some 135 pies between September 26 and the time Servir went online. “My story with this pastry started in Kingston five years ago. I noticed that in the region, these pies were not sold in grocery stores. As we had started fundraising for a trip organized by the Kingston Military Communications and Electronics Museum to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the liberation of Europe, I decided to make some and sell them. I had great success!”
With his experience, he put his apron back on last year, this time to benefit the NDWCC and he decided to do it again this year. “I buy the ingredients, prepare them and cook them at home. My spouse helps me by taking care of the finances. I am very happy to do my part to achieve my unit’s objective and to know that my pies make everyone happy and that they will be on several tables at Christmas!”
Photo: courtesy
Sergeant François Pomerleau with Padre Evelien Martin-Brulleman, a frequent customer!
From left to right: Roxanne Laniel and Carole Doré, from PSP. Ms. Chantale Ménard came to lend them a helping hand voluntarily.
Photo: MCpl Jeff Clement –Imagery
Saint-Jean
Josaphat Nicolas-Marshal won the draw for the Nespresso coffee machine organized by the Personnel Support Programs team at the Saint-Jean Garrison. The draw took place on December 1st Some $335 was raised from ticket sales. This amount will be donated to the NDWCC.
Military Families A program makes your arrival easier in the region
| Yves Bélanger, Servir
Last month, the Canadian Forces Leadership and Recruit School (CFLRS) Association launched the IGLU program. The latter aims to offer tools and services to military families to facilitate their integration in the region.
Véronique Tougas, president of Cambli, chairs the association. “I had no connection to the military community before. It was PierrePaul Pharand, Honorary Colonel of the CFLRS, who approached me. He wanted to give a new mission, a new lease of life to this organization. I accepted knowing that I would have the chance to help concretely.”
The businesswoman understood the importance of putting things in place so that newly arrived military families feel welcomed and develop a sense of belonging to the community. “A large number of CAF members transferred to our region are English-speaking. Their relatives find themselves destitute when they arrive in our very French-speaking environment. Unfortunately, many of them choose to isolate themselves at home.”
By talking with members of the association, Ms. Tougas realized that it would undoubtedly be possible to kill two birds with one stone. “For several years, all companies in the region have been facing a staff shortage. There are more than 2,000 vacancies. If we can successfully integrate military families, maybe we can find good jobs for them too.”
For Ms. Tougas, this support offered to new military families will not encroach on the work carried out by the Military Family Resource Centre (MFRC) in the Montreal region. “On the contrary, I recently met their General Director, Francine Habel, to ensure that we offer services that her team is not able to provide. We will therefore be complementary!”
Meeting targeted needs
The Board of Directors of the CFLRS Association is made up of CAF members and influential business people from Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu. Together, they have been working for 18 months to build a structuring project. “We took the time we needed to do things well. We wanted to understand the situation and offer effective support as soon as members received their transfer message to Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu.”
In order to offer tools and services that correspond to the real needs of military families, the association met with 80 people corresponding to the target clientele. “We subsequently sent a survey to 250 other members of the military community. We obtained some very interesting answers.”
In particular, it emerged from the exercise that several military families transferred to the region prefer to settle near Montreal. “It’s easier for them to get by in English. We have to find ways to keep them here.” The other difficulties mentioned mainly concern employment, daycare and health services. There are also all the issues concerning social life.
The CFLRS Association has several ideas which will be presented later. “I suggested suggesting to local employers that they offer French classes, a few hours a week, to help newcomers
integrate better. I do this within my company with five Ukrainian refugees. They arrived here without knowing a word of French and that produces excellent results.”
Ms. Tougas also talks about the possibility of businesses able to offer services in English displaying it. “They could put up a sign near their entrance to welcome English speakers. It’s small gestures like this that can make a difference.”
The official launch of the IGLU program took place in November, notably in the presence of the Commander of the 2nd Canadian Division, Brigadier-General Dave Abboud, and the Commandant of the CFLRS, Lieutenant-Colonel Chung Wong. “They are very proud of the work we are doing,” concludes Ms. Tougas.
Why, IGLU?
This name comes from the Innu language and means “house”. The Canadian Forces Leadership and Recruit School Association chose it for its program because its mission is to create bridges between different communities and the military community.
Photo:
Eva Breye
From left to right: Colonel Jonathan Michaud, Commander of the Military Personnel Generation Training Group, Véronique Tougas, President of Cambli, Andrée Bouchard, Mayor of Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Brigadier-General Dave Abboud, Commander of the 2 nd Canadian Division, Pierre-Paul Pharand, Honorary Colonel of the Canadian Forces Leadership and Recruit School, Lieutenant-Colonel Chung Wong, Commandant of the Canadian Forces Leadership and Recruit School, and Lieutenant-Colonel Éric Ouellet, Deputy Commandant of the Royal Military College Saint-Jean.
Teenagers from military families
Youth Connect Application
A virtual meeting place for young people in the military community
| Yves Bélanger, Servir
Since last spring, teenagers from military families in the Montreal region have had access to a virtual youth centre. Only young people from military families have access and all activities are supervised by the Military Family Resource Centre (MFRC).
Noémi Trépanier, Childhood Coordinator at the Montreal region MFRC, explains that Youth Connect is aimed at young people aged 9 to 17. “Once online, users can chat with each other or participate in different activities suggested by the facilitators.”
Youth Connect connects young people from 14 MFRCs across the country.
“It’s good because a young person who made friends while living in Petawawa can stay in touch with them even if their family has just been transferred elsewhere. Youth Connect makes it easy to find friends who live in other regions.”
The idea for the program was born during the COVID-19 pandemic. “A youth centre was created and it offered its members the opportunity to meet on the web. The idea was good and the MFRCs decided to take it up to offer our young people a platform that suits them and meets their needs.”
Ms. Trépanier adds that it is increasingly difficult to get teenagers aged 12 to 17 out of their homes. “This virtual youth centre is a way for us to reach this clientele and make them aware of our services. It’s also a great way to adequately introduce young people to the use of social networks.”
In addition to chatting with their friends, young people who access Youth Connect can also have fun playing various arcade games. “We will also be able to offer them online conferences with specialists on subjects that concern them closely. We also thought about setting up a place in the virtual centre where teens can find information on job searching and learn how to prepare a resume.”
Ms. Trépanier explains that this project is still in development. “We hope to be able to offer stable activities starting in January.”
To have access to the Youth Connect, teenagers must register on the MFRC of the Montreal region website. “Once their membership is accepted, they will be able to choose an avatar to start navigating the virtual youth centre,” says Ms. Trépanier, specifying that everything that takes place in this program is supervised by a MFRC employee.
The Military Family Resource Centre invites you to its virtual youth centre!
Noémi Trépanier, Childhood Coordinator at the Montreal region MFRC.
Photo: courtesy
With the avatar of their choice, the teenager accesses different rooms of the virtual youth centre.
Photo: courtesy
The virtual youth centre is secure. Only children of military families have access.
Photo: courtesy
To register to Youth Connect
Agenda
Christmas concert
Friday, December 8, 7 p.m.
Saint-Jean Garrison Auditorium For CAF members, civilian Defence employees and members of their families Free
The Community Recreation Department invites you to the Christmas Jazz concert offered by Choeur à la Carte. To attend, you must obtain tickets at the reception desk of the Saint-Jean Garrison sports centre. During intermission, bar service will be offered by the Alouette and Patriote messes (cash only).
Information: 450 358-7099 # 7262
Christmas dinner
Friday, December 15, 6 p.m.
Youth Community Integration Centre (Loft), Saint-Hubert For children from military families (9 to 17 years old) | Free
The Military Family Resource Centre invites you to share a meal and develop connections with young people who experience the same reality as you.
Registration deadline: December 13, 2023
Mise au point sur mesure pour le couple
Sunday, December 31, 2 p.m.
Virtual conference (in French)
For couples (one member must be a CAF member or a Veteran) Free
The Military Family Resource Centre invites you to a conference by psychology doctor and author Danie Beaulieu. With humor and passion she will address different subjects linked to the romantic and sexual dimensions of the couple.
Zootherapy workshop
Thursday, January 25, 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: January 24
Information and registration
Youth retreat
Friday January 26 to Sunday January 28
Estacade outdoor centre
For children from military families (12 to 17 years old) Free
The Military Family Resource Centre invites you to spend a weekend full of activities: thematic workshops, conferences, outdoor activities and more!
Registration deadline: January 19
and registration
Photo : Yves Bélanger
PSP Team : 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!
Rent your equipment to play in the snow
Do you want to practice an outdoor sport during the holiday season? The sports and outdoor stores of the Montreal and Saint-Jean garrisons have a large number of snowboards and alpine and touring skis. Sleds, fat bikes and snowshoes for adults and children are also rented there at good prices. What better way to try a new sporting activity and enjoy the joys of winter! Information and
Watch for the new recreation program
They learn about archery
On the afternoon of November 5, the community recreation department offered an introductory archery activity at the Centre de plein air l’Estacade, in Saint-Paul-de-l’Île-aux-Noix. The participants greatly appreciated the advice offered by Marc-Antoine Mercier, Outdoor Specialist.
Don’t miss the new winter program of the Saint-Jean Garrison sports centre. It will be posted online the week of December 18.
Among the new features:
- Grappling classes (specialized ground wrestling) will take place twice a week, at lunchtime.
- Bodybuilding classes will be offered on Mondays and Fridays at noon.
- Climbing courses have been added to meet demand.
- Board game enthusiasts will be able to participate in the Tuesday Games activity which will take place one Tuesday evening per month at the Alouette mess.
Consult the program (available in the week of December 18)
New protective mattresses
The community recreation department has acquired new mattresses designed specifically to protect climbers on the climbing wall at the Saint-Jean Garrison sports centre. In the photo, we see André Savard, owner of Couture Industrielle Mobile, Marc-Antoine Mercier, Outdoor Specialist, and Rachel Lavoie, Mr. Savard’s spouse.
I
am proud to serve you!
«
“It was my friend, Linda Pomminville, who called me one day to find out if I would like to work at the Saint-Jean Garrison. I accepted because I have always found it easy to communicate with the military community. It’s a universe that I have always loved. I was in the Sea Cadets for five years.
In my job, I take care of, among other things, responding to the store’s customers and maintaining the equipment. I touch everything; I like tasks to be nonrepetitive! Currently, I am also working a lot on migrating our inventory to Univerus (Book King) software.
In my spare time, one of my favourite hobbies is collecting old furniture and transforming it. I love to tinker. I also like taking care of my grandchildren, Félix (6 years old), Zachary (2 years old), Hayden (8 years old) and Liam (4 years old). I am a very busy grandmother!”
Johanne Archambault
Clerk at the Sports and outdoor store
Joined the PSPs in June 2000
Hiking and stargazing
On November 18, outdoor enthusiasts took advantage of a day of activities offered by the community recreation department. It all started with a hike in Venise-en-Québec on a trail surrounded by marshes and superb biodiversity. In the evening, Outdoor Specialist Marc-Antoine Mercier invited participants to watch the sunset over Lake Champlain and observing the stars. Everyone really enjoyed this day outside.
Captain Valérie Leone
Female Athlete of the Year
| Yves Bélanger, Servir
Captain Valérie Leone, Administration Officer at the 34 Canadian Brigade Group (34 CBG) won the Female Athlete of the Year award at the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) Sports Awards Ceremony, which took place in Ottawa on October 18.
For the CAF member, winning such an award represents a major personal and professional accomplishment. “Being named female athlete of the year within the CAF is, in my opinion, the ultimate recognition of the multiple efforts put into this sport and I am very happy about it.”
Capt Leone has been practicing powerlifting for six years. She has so far had the opportunity to participate in seven competitions such as the Canadian Powerlifting League, the Canadian Conflict II, and the Revolution Powerlifting Syndicate. “In 2022, I finished second in Canada among all participants, regardless of their age or gender,” she says proudly. She adds that throughout 2023, she managed to maintain her rank.
The athlete loves her sport so much that she is now co-owner of a training centre dedicated to it. “We even plan to open a second one in the coming months.”
Her next competition
The athlete indicates that her next sporting challenges will take place in 2024 where she moves to the Pro elite level. “I have been invited to Ghost Clash III which will take place in April 2024 in Miami, Florida. This will be my first international competition.”
In addition to standing out during this competition, Capt Leone will also be among the participants in the 9th edition of ShellShock in October 2024, in Alberta. “This is the biggest powerlifting competition in Canada.” She plans to take advantage of the coming months to stay in shape and perfect her techniques.
Her projects
Passionate about powerlifting, Capt Leone hopes to promote this discipline as much as possible and, above all, to show that it is a sport accessible to all. “Among other things, I want to demonstrate to young women that they can be strong by defying all societal expectations.”
Over the next year, she also hopes to help the Personnel Support Programs (PSP) team at the Saint-Jean Garrison to promote powerlifting, but also to set up a specific training program for the CAF members. “It’s obvious that I would like powerlifting to one day be among the disciplines for which the CAF has representative teams.”
Captain Valérie Leone.
She has specialized in powerlifting for seven years.
Photo: Joel Kingston
An excellent performance in New York
Maxime Brouillard, Health Promotion Specialist for the Personnel Support Programs, obtained excellent results during his participation in the 52nd New York Marathon which took place on November 5.
He completed the 42 kilometres in 2h52:51. He thus obtained the 681st place among the 51,295 marathon runners, 119th place out of 4,258 runners in his age group, and the 19th place among the 1,081 Canadian participants.
With the holiday season upon us, we turn our thoughts with gratitude toward those who are serving our country.
Peace, joy, and friendship.
Photo: courtesy
A world record in skydiving
With her civilian parachute team, Major Mélissa Fortin, Commander of Bravo Division at the Canadian Forces Leadership and Recruit School, achieved a Total break sequential world record for a jump performed with 108 paratroopers.
The event took place in Arizona on October 26. It took 15 jumps from a height of 18,000 feet before they reached their goal of breaking the world record. In skydiving, records are established based on the creativity of the figures (previously presented to the judge) done by a team comprising a specific number of skydivers.
