the 2010 primrose hackle

AIR SON AR DUTHCHAIS

PRIMROSE HACKLE

MMX

IN THIS ISSUE:

SHOUT OUTS

OP CADENCE

OP NANOOK

WILD BOARS

THE DEVILS BRIGADE

THE DUKE OF KENT

Regimental Battle Honours

YPRES 1915-17, Festubert 1915, MOUNT SORREL, SOMME 1916, ARRAS 1917-18,

HILL 70, AMIENS, HINDENBURG LINE, PURSUIT TO MONS, SICILY 1943,

ITALY 1943-45, NORTHWEST EUROPE 1944-45

(The Battle Honours in capital letters are emblazoned on the Regimental Colours)

Freedoms Awarded

The Colonel-in-Chief

Field Marshal, His Royal Highness Prince Edward, The Duke of Kent KG, GCMG, GCVO, CD, ADC(P)

Honorary Colonel

Colonel, The Honourable John H. McDermid, PC Honorary Lieutenant-Colonel

The Honourable Lieutenant-Colonel John Davis, CD

Commanding Officer

Lieutenant Colonel A. Phelps, CD

Perpetuating

The 37th, 74th, 76th, 126th, 164th and the 234th Battalions, Canadian Expeditionary Force 1914-18

Regimental Birthday

14 September 1866

Regimental Headquarters

Deputy Commanding Officer

Major D.E. Hickson, CD Adjutant

Captain S. Sherriff, CD Regimental Sergeant-Major

Chief Warrant Officer D. Murphy, CD Officer Commanding A Company

Captain B.A. Bean, CD Officer Commanding B Company

Captain R.P. Ryan, CD Officer Commanding C Company

Major T. Ruggle, CD Officer Commanding Administration Company

Captain D.P. Darling Mitchell, CD

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1969 & 1979 City of

Brampton

1981 Region of Dufferin

1984 Town of Oakville

1987 Town of

Halton Hills

2004 Communities of Dufferin County

2009 Town of Milton

Drum Major

Drum Major I.D. McGibbon, CD

Pipe Major

Pipe Major K. Cranley

Allied Regiment

The Royal Regiment of Fusiliers London, UK

Affiliated Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corps

557 Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corps, Brampton, Ontario 676 Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corps, Georgetown, Ontario 1188 Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corps, Oakville, Ontario 1849 Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corps, Orangeville, Ontario 2990 Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corps, Milton, Ontario

Regimental Disposition

Regimental Headquarters

2 Chapel Street Brampton, Ontario

L6W 2H1 (905) 451-5724

Fax (905) 454-1533

Administration Company


L6W 2H1 (905) 451-5425

Fax (905) 454-1533

The Lorne Scots

Regimental Association

c/o 2 Chapel Street Brampton, Ontario

L6W 2H1

C Company

The Colonel John Roaf Barber, ED, CD Armoury 91 Todd Road

Georgetown, Ontario L7G 4R8

(905) 702-2251 Fax (905) 877-8827

The Lorne Scots

Pipes & Drums Band

The Colonel John Roaf Barber, ED, CD Armoury 91 Todd Road

Georgetown, Ontario L7G 4R8

(905) 702-2272 Fax (905) 877-8827

A Company

90 Thomas Street Oakville, Ontario

L6J 3A6 (905) 844-0604 (905) 844-7399

B Company


L6W 2H1 (905) 451-2741

Fax (905) 454-1533

The Lorne Scots

Regimental Museum

48 John Street Brampton, Ontario

L6W 2H1 (905) 451-5724

Fax (905) 454-1533

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Colours of the Lorne Scots

The Colours of the Lorne Scots (PD&H) Regiment On the 14th September 1991, the 125th anniversary of the formation of the Unit, the Colonel-in-Chief, Field Marshall, His Royal Highness, The Duke of Kent, KG, GCMG, GCVO, CD, ADC(P) presented a new Stand of Colours to the Regiment.

The Queens Colour

The Regimental Colour

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Commanding Officer’s Message

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This edition of the Primrose Hackle comes at a time when the Regiment is strong and our troops are fully engaged within our communities. Last year at this time the Regiment found itself in a challenging position as we struggled to maintain our training tempo against the back-drop of unexpected budgetary reductions, the deployment of troops to Afghanistan and an un-certain future for many of our full time staff. I am proud to report that we were able to fight through these challenges and rise to the top of the Brigade in terms of readiness and administra-tion.

The last year has gone by extremely fast, however, it is marked with accomplishment.

The unit came together on a number of occasions in celebration and recognition with a view to keeping the Regimental family together in the absence of training.

The 2009 All Ranks Christmas dinner was held off site in Oakville and despite an early

stand down we saw a huge turn out. In fact many of the Sr NCO’s and Officers ate standing due to the lack of seats! The spirit of the Regiment and the season were as strong as ever and the template was set for the 2010 All Ranks Christmas Dinner.

The last year has seen soldiers of the Regiment deployed both internationally and do-

mestically. Through the hard work of the Companies and with the extraordinary support of the Battalion Orderly Room our troops departed the Regiment as prepared as they could possibly be in terms of administration and support.

On 28 March 2010 the Regimental family gathered at the Brampton Armoury to wish

our troops a safe and successful deployment to Afghanistan. We were joined by the Brigade Commander, Colonel Julian Chapman, representatives from the Royal Canadian Legion, many members of the public and political figures from the Municipal, Provincial and Federal levels. The support displayed for our troops was heartfelt and exemplified Canadian pride. Since that date we have had regular updates from our troops and I am happy to report that our last soldier will be home before Christmas… one day before Christmas that is!!

In June 2010 the Regiment

deployed a platoon sized organiza-tion in support of Operation Ca-dence. The G8 and G20 summits were the largest domestic security operation in Canadian history and the Regiment was at the forefront as part of Task Force Toronto. Our soldiers performed their duty with skill and professionalism in some-times trying situations. Once again our troops wore the Hackle proudly and set the standard.

In August 2010 soldiers of the Regiment deployed on Operation Nanook as part of a

composite unit formed from 32 CBG. Operation Nanook was a sovereignty mission to the far North with a view to reinforcing the Canadian military presence and fostering relationships with the local population. The unit was staged at Resolute Bay, Cornwallis Island, moved to Pond Inlet, North Baffin Island, and conducted presence patrols on Bylot Island. In addition, am-phibious operations were conducted with the support of the Canadian Navy and the Danish Navy. Reports from the field have confirmed that the Canadian North is much colder than Af-ghanistan in August and has the unique ability to generate bone chilling wind from all direc-tions simultaneously!

On 21 May 2010 we welcomed The Colonel-in-Chief, His Royal Highness, Field Mar-

shall, the Duke of Kent back to the Regimental lines for a brief but productive visit. His Royal Highness had made it clear that he wanted to see his Lorne Scots, past and present, by any means possible as far too much time had passed since his last visit. The evening went off with-out a hitch.

In August the Regiment mourned the unexpected passing of Pte Geoffery Mackrell, age

19. Pte Mackrell joined the Regiment as a Co-op student in January 2009 and was a member of “C” Company. On 26 August 2010 family and friends gathered in Milton to celebrate his life and bid farewell to a Lorne Scot as a Regiment. He will be missed and he will be remembered.

The Regiment once again showed its respect for those who served before us and those

who still serve during the 2010 Remembrance Day ceremonies. In addition to numerous speaking engagements the soldiers, bandsmen, veterans and cadets of the Regiment paraded in Brampton, Oakville, Georgetown, Acton, Orangeville, Milton, and Bronte to honour those who have sacrificed so much in the name of Canada. Lest We Forget.

In the spring the Adjutant, RSM and I had the pleasure of attending the Annual Inspec-

tions for the five Lorne Scots Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corps (557 Brampton, 676 George-town, 1849 Orangeville and 2990 Milton, 1188 Oakville). It was clear to me that our Cadet In-structor Cadre and Cadets are very much engaged and dedicated to their program. The Espirit-de-Corps displayed during these events paints a clear picture; the future of the Regiment and its name are secure.

In closing, our training and operational tempo will continue to be high during the next

year. With a our budget stabilized and our training strategy mapped out the conditions have been set for success. We will continue to accomplish our tasks to the highest standard while ensuring that our obligations to the Regimental family are at the forefront of our minds. By working as a team and fostering the concept of the Regimental family we will continue to excel and show the Brigade what it means to be a Lorne Scot!

Lcol Phelps, CD Commanding Officer


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IN MEMORIAM

Private Geoffrey Mackrell 16 February 1991 17 August 2010

Geoffrey Mackrell was born in Scarborough, Febru-ary 16th 1991. He spent most of his life in Campbellville, Ontario before moving to Acton in 2006. Geoffrey graduated from E.C. Drury High School. Geoffrey joined the Canadian Army on 29 January 2009 through the military Co-op programme. He went on to his DP1 Infantry course in Meaford that summer. Geoffrey was rifleman in C Company of the Lorne Scots. He was posted to Ceremonial Guard in Ot-tawa as Rank & File until his death. Geoffrey is survived by his parents, Mark and Cathy. The hearts of the Regiment go out to his family.

LORNE SCOTS ALWAYS DELIVER Ron Ruiters is an officer serving with NATO overseas in Brussels. Before enlisting many years ago, he lived for a short time in Brampton where his parents resided for the rest of their lives. Ron received the expected news that his father passed away and that funeral arrangements were set for his interment on July 2 with the viewing on July 1 - Canada Day. Ron arranged to fly on Canada Day and proceed directly from the airport to the funeral home. Ron’s father Joe had served with the Royal Dutch Marine Corps in Indonesia in the late forties and was a marine to the day his great heart ceased fighting. He was proud to be a Canadian and had raised two sons in the army and two in the RCMP. It would be appropriate that he go out in style. Ron decided that he would pay his final respects - very personally - in full dress uniform and sword. Problem is Air Canada does not like swords on their aircraft. Ron contacted the Lorne Scots Regiment who very promptly replied that they would deliver a sword and scabbard to the funeral home. The burial took place, Ron saluted his father in a small moving ceremony and all was well. While a small incident against the back drop of Afghanistan, this was important to Ron and it was important to the Lorne Scots. A very basic tenet that sustains professional warriors is to be able to count on a brother or sister in arms at all times. This relatively small ability to ask and expect support is inculcated automatically in the field and ultimately in war. Brampton should be proud of their regiment - the Lorne Scots - who embody as a group Bramptonian and Canadian decency and professionalism. LCol R.H.J Ruiters Republished with permission of Chief NATO Warning Secretariat The Brampton Guardian


Regimental Association President’s Message

As President of the Regimental Association I would like to extend greetings to all members of the Regiment. For the newest members of the Regimental Family the association has been in existence for almost 40 years. Many outstanding leaders who served in the Regiment have contin-ued their support by becoming members of the Association Executive. They have worked tirelessly over the years to support the vision of the As-sociation. Quite simply we are here to support the CO and the Regiment with whatever resources we have available. This has become critically important in the last five years with so many of our soldiers returning from operations in Afghanistan. We have in the past two years helped several soldiers through some difficult times and will continue to support any soldier who needs our help. The association continues to support the CO in providing funding for Regimental activities like birthday and Christmas dinners for the soldiers. We also are actively involved in supporting the Regimental Pipes and Drums in their many endeavours. As 2011 approaches we are planning two major events for the 145

th

anniversary of the regiment. We have a GALA Dinner planned for the 7th

of May. The Duke of Argyll will be the patron of this event. The 145th reun-

ion weekend is planned for the weekend of 10-12 June 2011. It will be a great opportunity to re-new old friendships and meet new ones. Remember all Lorne Scots serving or not are members of the Asso-ciation so please take an active part in the reunion weekend. As the holiday season begins I extent greetings from the association and give thanks for the safe return of all our soldiers now on operations in Afghanistan. Have a safe and happy Christmas and new year

Thank-You LCol WA Adcock (ret’d) OMM,CD

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Regimental Sergeant Major’s Message

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As I mentioned in last years Hackle the challenges in 2009 were dif-ferent and came thick and fast and I would like to thank all members of the Regiment in enabling us to continue to meet the high standards that have been set for the Lorne Scots. We continued the focus our ARCG tasking but adapted the training to concentrate on live firing and patrolling. This was well received by the members of the Regiment and we intend to continue this trend into the fu-ture. The current members of the Regiment that have deployed on TF1-10 continue to do us proud and bring along a reminder that the basic sol-dier skills and drills, TTPs and SOPs that we practice are of vital impor-tance. We wish them all well as they begin to return to Canada and we look forward to making full use of their new found skills and experience. By all accounts they acquitted themselves in an exemplary fashion. The Regiment has done very well in the past year with the devel-opment of MCpls, Sgts and WOs and I would encourage all members who identified as being ready to take their next career course, to plan their schedules, talk nicely to their significant others, persuade the boss and commit to attending their next course as soon as possible. 2011 looks to be another chal-lenging year as we enter into our 145

th Anniversary and again I look

forward to another year of hard work training and fun serving with all members of the Regiment.

Air Son Ar Duthchais

A Company Message


The 2009 / 2010 training year has been a memorable one for A Company. In September 2009, the company was proud to send MCpl Muir, Cpl Candido and Cpl Montague for build up training in Petaw-awa to serve with TF1-10 in Afghanistan. In August, Lt Proulx and MCpl Teoh went to OP Nanook in Canada’s far north. The OC, Capt Bean and CSM, WO Colter were privileged enough to travel with our band to England to attend the opening of the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers Museum in Bury. The museum was nice and also included some pictures of the Lorne Scots. In November, Remembrance Day was observed in both Bronte and Oakville with A Coy providing the Cenotaph Guard with MCpl Williams as the Guard Commander. Sgt Morris and MCpl Teoh participated in OP Connection by speaking at local schools about Remembrance Day. Sgt Bean was also a Guest speaker for the 2990 Milton Cadet Corp in February. December had the Unit Christmas Dinner held in Oakville at our local Bronte Legion. It was a massive turnout with the meal being prepared by Jonathon’s of Oakville. The Winter Indoc training and winter exercise was tasked to A Company. Capt Bean did a wonderful job of preparing the training and orders to have it cancelled due to budget. Along with the winter training, basic recruit courses were not run and A Company had two non trained soldiers attending Thursday night training until they could get on courses during the summer. Lt Proulx, Sgt Kiss, MCpl Williams, Cpl Chan and Pte Thompson went to watch the Oakville Blades de-feat the Georgetown Raiders in a close match on February 12

th in an Honour the Soldier game. WO

Colter dropped the opening puck and presented a stick autographed by the team. The Mess Executive did a great job running the A Coy Mess Dinner. Mike Vensil (ex Navy) was our honoured guest and speaker. He did a terrific job of telling stories of his ex-perience and relating them to the infantry. Many people went on courses this year. Capt Bean took his POCT, Sgt Bean, the Teach the Teacher course for the new rucksack assembly and use, Cpl Candido, his Tactical Casualty Care, Cpl Chan his DP2, Pte Demarco, her DP1 and IPSW, Pte Lack, his BMQ and BMQL, Pte Lee, his Drivers course, Pte Maloney, his BMQ, BMQL and DP1, Pte MacDonald, his Co-Op course and DP1, Cpl Muir, his PLQ Mod 6, Lt Proulx his Air Assault course and also was the course commander on several courses, Pte Raycraft, his BMQ, BMQL and DP1, Cpl Rinaldo, his IPSW, Pte Robinson, his BMQ, Cpl Stuart and in-structed on the SQ course, his PLQ Mod 6, Pte Thompson, his SQ, DP1 and IPSW, Pte White, his BMQ and BMQL and MCpl Williams instructed on an SQ course. A Company also had some promotions. Pte Boltsis and Pte Thompson were promoted to Cpl and Cpl Muir and Cpl Stuart were promoted to MCpl. Earlier this year, MCpl Denty returned from his stint at CSOR. At year end, WO Colter and Sgt Kiss were in attendance for the 1188 Oakville Cadet Corp graduation at Appleby College. WO Colter was amongst other members of the Lorne Scots at the Georgetown Highland games honouring military vet-erans and also at the Oakville Golf and Country Club Tin Hat Tournament with members of the 1188 in honour of the infantry. During the summer the armouries went under renovations and we are all in anticipation of its comple-tion. We are looking forward to what the 2010/2011 training year will bring A Company. WO Colter CD, CSM

B Company Message


This Christmas finds, yet again, soldiers of The Lorne Scots at war, defending the lives of those striving to build a future for themselves and their families in Afghani-stan. We are truly thankful for the sacrifices all Canadian soldiers have made in this noble endeavour. As the soldiers of B Company return to their own families over the next few weeks, I hope they carry pride in their hearts tempered with the knowledge that there is much work yet to done. The past year has seen the soldiers of B Company successfully completing both soldier skills and leadership courses. The Regiment continues to produce a strong corps of Jr and Snr NCOs who will continue to shoulder the responsibility of leading young, motivated soldiers in peace and war. B Company made significant contributions to two major domestic operations. With excellent administrative support from the Battalion OR staff, B Company filled the majority of the Regiment’s assigned tasks and did so with a quiet professional compe-tence. On behalf of all ranks of B Company I would like to wish you a safe and happy holiday season. Capt Robert P Ryan, BA, CD OC B Company Continued on Page 35

C Company Message(s)


We had a little gaff at the Company's mess dinner in 2010, and as Company Commander I ended up filling in the role of guest speaker and primary entertainment for members of the mess. As I had not had too much to drink by that point, I de-cided on the relatively serious subject of the Regimental Family, a topic that really hit home for me during the final day of my year long Army Operations Course. On that day, they gathered together the 70 odd students who were still sticking out the course and bundled us over to the lecture hall during the morning prior to grad parade, with the promise of a guest lecturer on soldier welfare. We all pretty much let out a collective groan. The groan was soon silenced, as a soldier dressed in cadpat was wheeled in to the lecture hall. The guest speaker turned out to be a soldier with first hand experience of the welfare system, and I was equally surprised to find out that I new him. The guest speaker was a PPCLI Major who during his deployment with the OMLT in June of 2008 was targeted by an IED sighted to take out the command and control element of the unit. He ended up losing both legs above the knee and suffer-ing a variety of other injuries. You can read about the operation he was involved in at the time at http://www.legionmagazine.com/en/index.php/2008/07/assignment-afghanistan-operation-ateesh-bazi/ . His story to this point, al-though interesting, compelling and ultimately tragic; was not actually the most tragic part. He began a very impassioned talk about his experiences both good and bad following the IED detonation, that chronicled his treatment at the site of the blast, and continued on through Germany until he got home to Edmonton. It is during his rehabilitation where the story really began to develop into a tragedy. The talk went on for over two hours, and left some in shocked awe, some pissed that someone could be treated so badly, a very few who didn't think he should be speaking against the system and using "swear words", and even a couple of guys who had worked with the OMLT, a little shaken from the memories. The key element that rang out for me though, was the fact that it was not the full time civilian social worker assigned to directly support him or Veteran's Affairs or even the CF system itself, that assisted him with the pitfalls of being a wounded warrior; in his eyes and experience they all saw him as a number, a job or a task to be performed; or even something that could be postponed for a vacation. When he stumbled against the bureaucracy, it wasn't them that helped, advocated or swore prodi-giously at mandarins; it was his Regimental Family that had his back. In 2010, the company had three soldiers deployed in Afghanistan, myself deployed to Kenya, soldiers working on domestic deployments in the Arctic and closer to home in Toronto, and even one who's life ended on the ceremonial guard. In addition to these soldiers that deployed and served this year, we also have a growing number from previous operations both abroad and domestically. I continue to be amazed at the number and variety of medals that my soldiers are wearing, and even more in awe of the manner in which they deal with the burdens that are a distinct part of wearing them. The awe however is often tinged with a degree of concern, because I know how unfeeling a bureaucracy can be; and we are a part-time one or two nights a week or-ganization, that just happens to have had a large number of soldiers head of to war and conflict zones. It is for this reason we need to ensure the Regimental Family works and is paying attention; because at the end of the day, the only one who will have your back is your family. As the operational tempo begins to ramp down (maybe), we need to ensure we don't lose sight of the fact that the last 5 years of high stakes play will continue on for a lifetime for some, and we need to ensure we don't become complacent. It doesn't matter if you are a private or a major, it's your job. That job can be anything from seeking help for a soldier too short of cash to pay a medical bill, advocating for fair treatment on behalf of a soldier, or simply listening when it's needed. I can report that you are doing your job well. To the three from this years rotation; Adams, Summerfield and Schavo, wel-come back. And to Schavo, hurry up and get behind the bar, your brothers and sisters are thirsty. Maj Ruggle CD Officer Commanding

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Pipes & Drums Band Message

The Pipes & Drums have spent 2010 fulfilling our ' footprint in the community ' on behalf of the Regiment and the Forces. One of our major obligations each year is The Canadian International Military Tattoo. This annual event at Copps Coliseum in Hamilton Ontario draws an audience of about 3000 people with two shows, Saturday evening and Sunday matinee. This is the 20th year that the P&D have been showcased and once again ours is the Senior Drum Major Pipe Bands for the show. Again this year the Tattoo included 3 other army reserve pipe bands, the 48th Highlanders, Black Watch of Montreal and the Argylls of Hamilton. It is a sight not often seen anymore, 4 army pipe bands, drum majors all in red doublets coming out of a castle façade in this country…for 2011 the dates are 25/26 June. Part of the tattoo involves putting on a mini version of the show on Canada Day at Dundurn Castle in Hamilton at sunset in a free setting for people to come out and celebrate our country. The crowd was very patriotic and the hour long show was well received. Later in July, the annual Kingston Military Tattoo took place at Fort Henry and we provided the substantial number of P&D to the show, for the first time in memory the show ended without being rained out! This is another show where Drum Major McGibbon is assigned as Producer/Sr Drum Ma-jor, Pipe Bands. Again this year 32CBG tasked 2 of our pipers to the CNE Recruiting Display where they pro-vided tunes for the changing of the guard and entertained the public…Cpls Chambers & Cunningham did an outstanding job on this. Further tasking went to 4 pipers and 1 drummer as they again became part of the P&D of the Ceremonial Guard in Ottawa, these soldiers all had to audition and be chosen from candidates across Canada which indicates the standard that the P&D play to at all times. The pipe band played Concert in Gage Park with the civilian Brampton Concert Band and left the crowd applauding and calling for more, another ' footprint' in the community. We will close out 2010 with the usual two Remembrance Day Parades in Brampton and then we start the new year with the annual Robbie Burns Dinner-Dance on Saturday 29 January 2011. As noted in the RSM`s article, he and DMaj were in Bury UK for the annual Gallipoli Com-memoration weekend and were highly visible participants in the dinners and parades, this is Drummys` 8th year as a guest of the Fusiliers Association. In recognition The Pipe Band outfitted a boy piper in Bury in surplus Regimentals and appointed him Duty Piper, Lorne Scots in absentia. The Fusiliers Association in turn had a pipe banner made up and ap-pointed wee Fred Bearne, aged 11 years, Piper to the Colonel, Lancashire. This is anecdotal in that it tightens the ties that bind the Regimental Alliance, some-thing the Pipes & Drums hold in highest esteem. Air Son Ar Duthchais DMaj McGibbon CD

TF 1-10 Departure Ceremony

Sunday the 28th of March saw a tremendous outpouring of concern and support for the soldiers of

the Lorne Scots who were in the process of deploying to Afghanistan with Task Force 1-10. Over 140 family members, friends, members of the Regiment and supporters of the regiment gathered at the Brampton Ar-moury to take part in a departure event hosted by the Regimental Association.

Fifteen of the nineteen soldiers scheduled to de-ploy were able to attend the event. They were welcomed by LCol Adcock, President of the Regimental Association, who then handed over to Col McDermid, the Honorary Colonel to introduce the official guests in attendance. The Federal Government was represented by the Hon Lisa Raitt, MP for Halton and Minister of Labour, the Hon Michael Chong, MP for Wellington-Halton Hills, Mr. Terence Young, MP for Oakville, Mr. Mike Wallace, MP for Burlington, Mr. Andrew Kania, MP for Brampton West and Dr Ruby Dhalla, MP for Brampton-Springdale. Mr. Kevin Flynn, MLA for Oakville and Mr. Ted Chudleigh, MLA for Halton, represented the Provincial Government and the local level was represented by Mayor Rob Burton of Oakville and Mayor Marolyn Morri-

son of Caledon while Councilor Clark Somerville represented Mayor Bonnette of Halton Hills and Councilor John Sanderson represented Mayor Fennel of Brampton. Minister Raitt, Mr. Flynn and Mayor Morrison all spoke of the support of their respective levels of government for our deploying soldiers. Col Julian Chap-man, the Commander of 32 Canadian Brigade Group, who also attended, spoke of the effort required to de-ploy our soldiers, both by the Regiment and by the families and of the support being extended by the Bri-gade. Mr. Ray Clark, the President of LCol G.B. Cousens Br 120 Royal Canadian Legion in Georgetown, supported by his Sgt at Arms, presented each of the attending soldiers with a Tim Horton’s Gift Card along with the best wishes of all members of Branch 120. MCpl Kwaku Wiafe, on behalf of the deploying soldiers, made a presentation to Sgt Bev Dalziel, the Regimental Chief Clerk. It had been remarked to our troops while clearing in to the Task Force that theirs were the only records that were complete and correct and that their Chief Clerk was to be complimented. MCpl Wiafe used the occasion to thank Sgt Dalziel for her hard work. The afternoon concluded with an opportunity for the family and friends to mingle with the soldiers and the guests. This was enhanced when our soldiers, deployed on exercise in Meaford, returned to the Ar-moury and took part in the Departure event. Several of these were Afghanistan veterans whose stories were of great interest to the families and guests. The afternoon was a magnificent show of the support and respect that is in the Regimental Commu-nity for the Regiment and our soldiers. The attendance of so many members of all three levels of Govern-ment spoke volumes and was a tremendous step in reestablishing important ties Capt Sherriff Adjutant

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Dignitaries shake hands and say farewell to the soldiers of TF 1-10 VIP’s sit in attendance Photos by WO Nault


On Nov. 24, 2005, while patrolling near the village of Lagman in eastern Afghanistan, the light armoured vehicle Pte. Paul Schavo was traveling in flipped over. Schavo and four others were seriously injured, and his best friend, Pte. Braun Scott Woodfield, was killed. For a brief moment, his brother’s accident had Robin Schavo of Acton reconsidering whether or not he, too, would serve in the war-torn country. But that was only for a moment. “I gave it a second thought, but it didn’t change my mind,” says 26-year-old Robin Schavo in a camouflage uniform covered in dust. He is 37 miles north-east of Barstow, California, but he might as well be in Kandahar. Cpl. Schavo, a member of the Lorne Scots regi-ment of Peel, Dufferin and Halton, is among 3,800 Canadian soldiers currently training at the National Training Centre in Fort Irwin, Ca. In what has been dubbed Maple Guardian, the seven-week exercise is essentially a full-scale dress rehearsal for the battle group slated to deploy to Kandahar this April. For the first time in decades, an entire military task force is training on foreign soil. Under the warm Mojave Desert sun, Schavo explains the moti-vation behind serving in the forces. “It was a drunken bar bet,” he says with a laugh. “One of my buddies bet me $50 that I wouldn’t join the military. I got $50 and I’m still in the military.” Schavo hasn’t regretted that fateful night once. “I love every minute of it. There’s good training, good people and no matter where we go, we get re-spect.” His fellow Lorne Scot, Georgetown’s Sean Summerfield, put a little more thought into his decision to join the reserves. “I remember I used to watch footage of the war in Bosnia when I was younger. There was a lot of genocide going on and everything seemed so black and white,” recalled the 21-year-old Master Cpl., now prepar-ing to embark on an eight-month tour overseas. Afghanistan was the main reason Summerfield signed up for the reserves. “I joined in ’06, when Canada started going into the southern provinces, and I decided it was something I wanted to do. “It’s an important mission, not just for Canada, but also for the Western world. What happens here will affect the political landscape not just for the Middle East, but for the entire Asian subcontinent.” Schavo and Summerfield will serve on a force protection unit, defending the 32nd Service platoon. “We protect (convoys) from ambushes and Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs),” said Summerfield. For two weeks, Maple Guard-ian is in full swing. When Schavo and Summerfield leave FOB (Forward Operating Base) King, which is home to about 2,000 Canadian soldiers, and make the short trip to one of the several mock Afghan and Iraqi villages re-created in Fort Irwin’s vast desert grounds, the line between real-ity and make-believe becomes blurred. “They’re in Afghani-stan...for the next two weeks they will live, eat, breathe and work as if they’re in Afghani-stan,” explained General John Collin, the man in charge of ensuring the troops are ready to go overseas.

Local soldiers training in Mojave for Afghan mission

Article appeared in the Halton Independent and is reprinted with permission of Christina Commisso Christina Commisso was an embedded Journalist in California with Canadian Soldiers on EX Maple Guardian

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Collin noted Fort Irwin, which covers more than 2,500 square-kilometres and is far removed from the California coast and Hollywood glam, boasts a fantastic replication of the climate and geography of Afghanistan, especially when compared to the sub-zero temperatures in Wainwright, Alberta, where Canadian soldiers typically train before deployment. “You get a bit of a chill on the back of your neck when you land here, it looks like south-ern Afghanistan,” said Collin. In the emptiness of the Mojave lie little pockets of Afghan civilization. Villages consist of hundreds of buildings that include mosques, working restaurants and hotels, occupied by paid “actors”— often ex-patriots now living in the U.S.— playing parts of local residents, store owners and town elders. “The National Training Centre is an outstanding training facility, they’ve put a lot into it,” said Collin. “The villages are reflective of Afghanistan. It’s everything we could wish for and then some.” Of the 3,800 Canadians training in Fort Irwin, 2,800 are prepar-ing for deployment, and for 70 per cent of these soldiers it will be their first tour. For this task force, which Collin described as “relatively young”, understanding Afghanistan’s cultural sensitivities and language is just as impor-tant as “good basic solider skills.” “It’s no longer just about combat skills,” said Collin, noting the actors in the mock villages speak Pashto or Farsi and soldiers must use their basic understanding of the languages, along with the help of an interpreter, to communicate. “They’re strongly encouraged to play that culture here,” Collin added. A 20-minute drive from FOB King rests the village of Ertebat Shar, a life-size recreation that mirrors the areas Canadian forces will patrol once they deploy. There, a paid actor says his role in the exercise is to help the soldiers become accustomed to the language, signage and traditions of the Afghan people. The task force has seven weeks to prepare prior to deployment and two weeks to live the soldier’s life during the simulation. But many Canadians at FOB King have dreamed of a mission like this for years— and next to training at Kandahar Airfield, the Mojave is the next best thing. “Training has changed so much in the desert. It’s more realistic without pine trees and snow around,” said Schavo, adding he’s preparing himself for the cultural shock and desert climate of Afghanistan. “I’m a Canadian boy. I’m used to maybe 30C in the summer and -20C in the winter. There, it’s going to be around 50 to 60C.” And the weather isn’t all Schavo is going to miss. “Sitting on a patio on a hot summer day drinking beer, I’ll miss that.” When asked how the Maple Guardian simulation compares to his day job at Acton’s Ashgrove Welding Ltd. he says, “Days here can be a little more stressful and a lot longer,” as a nearby army helicopter lands close by, stirring up a storm of dust and sand. “You just don’t see this at a desk job. It’s (Afghanistan) going to be really hard for me to adjust, going to somewhere that’s been war-torn for so many years, from where I can walk down a street without a rifle in my hand and feel safe.” Following in the footsteps of his brother, Schavo says he’s looking forward to something different in his life. “I just want to put my little footprint in history.” Summerfield hopes to make a little more than a footprint in Afghan soil. “Even considering the movement against the war, I think all Canadians should support the troops and support democracy,” Summerfield says. “This mission is very important. We have young girls going to school, we’re creating security and eventually they’ll have a normal economy.” Pointing to the wars fought by his grand-parents and great-grandparents “We can’t fail where other generations have succeeded.” Christina Commisso Burlington Post

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DID YOU KNOW ?DID YOU KNOW ?DID YOU KNOW ?DID YOU KNOW ?

The name Afghanistan means the Land of the Afghans. Afghan was

an alternative name for Pashtuns, who make up approximately 42%

(12 million) of the Afghanistan population. But that only referred to

the people south of Kabul. The entire area and all the territories

which now form the country, was then called The Kingdom of Kabul.

Soldier heads Back to War

As the sun sets tonight and most of us wind down for the day with a little R&R, a local resident will be getting ready to board a plane for Afghanistan. His task? To help re-build a country left devastated by years of rule under the Taliban. It’s a heavy job for anyone, let alone a young man who won’t reach his 22nd birthday until next week. But Matt Muir is obviously no ordinary person, and an hour spent chatting earlier this week in his family home off Bronte Street is more than enough evidence of that. While some of his peers are floundering, torn between various educational pursuits and “finding themselves,” it seems Muir couldn’t be surer if he tried that he’s where he’s supposed to be. Yesterday marked the last of an 18-day leave before retuning to Afghanistan to finish the remaining six months of an eight-month tour. “Every day that I’m there I feel confident that I’m making a difference and that I’m doing my part for the country,” said the E.C. Drury graduate, his parents looking on with pride. As a master corporal with the ‘A’ Company Lorne Scots Regiment — a pri-mary reserve infantry regiment — out of Oakville, Muir is a part-time mem-ber of the Canadian Forces. He volunteered for this tour, making it all the more admirable to family and friends. It’s the culmination of four years of military training, which he said has served him well. “I spent a lot of time training with the Canadian Forces and it prepared me,” he said. “I stepped into this knowing full well what I was getting into.” Muir didn’t want to disclose exactly what he does on a day-to-day basis in southern Afghanistan. What he did say is his unit is working with the Afghan people to help give them a higher quality of life and assist with developing a more stable government. “In general we’re very supported by the Afghans and they’re happy we’re working with them,” he said. At night, he sleeps in a tent. When asked about being back in his own bed, if only for a while, his smile stretches from ear to ear. “It’s nice,” he said. As an infantry member, Muir has one of the more dangerous jobs, said his father, Brian, who explains he’s a foot soldier. But Matt doesn’t dwell on the danger, saying he’s confident his training will keep him safe. His mother, Kathy, has no less confi-dence in his abilities. But still, she worries. Wanting to keep aware of what’s going on, Kathy watches the news and knows the alarming frequency that Canadian soldiers’ deaths are reported. She’s part of a support group for family members of those in the Forces. Matt decided to join the military after several years in air cadets. But he has always demonstrated qualities conducive to the job. “Matthew has an incredible heart for people of all ages,” Kathy said. “He was always helping in any way, anywhere he could.” The past couple of weeks have been busy ones, with Matt’s family — he has two sisters, aged 19 and 24 — and his long-time girlfriend, Sarah Fredricks, trying to pack in as many memories as possible. Brian took Matt on a father/son fishing trip, while Fredricks threw him a birthday bash — he turns 22 next Thursday — at Ned Devine’s. She also surprised him by setting up a Facebook site to keep his friends informed; it already has about 400 members. Fredricks said her five-year relationship with Matt has been far from typical because it has always revolved around Matt’s plans with the Canadian Forces. “I think we grew up fast together,” she said. Although saying goodbye is never easy, Fredricks said she knows Matt is where he’s supposed to be. And that’s enough for her. “He’s meant to do this.”

Article appeared in the Milton Canadian Champion and is reprinted with permission of Stephanie Hounsell

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Canada’s Mission in Afghanistan Fast Facts

7 October 2001, Prime Minister Jean Chrétien announced Canada would contribute Military forces to the International Mission in Afghanistan under OP Apollo, it was originally planned to last until Oct 2003. 18 April 2002, the first Canadians were killed in Afghanistan at Tarnak Farm. August 2003, Canadian Forces in Afghanistan moved to the capital of Afghanistan, Kabul, as part of the new mission, OP Athena as part of the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF). 13 February 2005, Canada doubles its forces from 600 to 1200. Spring 2005, Canada annouced it would re-enter the violitle Kandahar Province. 25 May 2007, Former Lorne Scot Matt McCully is killed by an IED. Cpl McCully was assigned to 2CMBG HQ & Sigs. 2011, Canada expected to pull out of combat operations in Afghanistan.

Since the mission began, 38 Lorne Scots have deployed to Afghani-stan. 152 Canadian Forces members have given their lives for the mission .

*as of 6 Dec 2010

Afghanistan has taken more casualties than any operation Canada has partici-pated in since the Korean War 1950-1953. 41 nations are contributing to ISAF in Afghanistan. 2,162 Soldiers from all contributing nation under ISAF have been killed.

Greetings from the Land of Dust & Sand

MCpl Abel Gomes Photo Courtesy of MCpl Turner

Boom goes the Dynamite “M72 Ready!” “M72 FIRE!!” Photos by Combat Camera

MCpl Turner & MCpl Wiafe on Canada Day Photos Courtesy of MCpl Turner

Next Page: MCpl Turner Commanding Cpl Rhudi “The Stash” Haase The Galley of Lorne flys Photos courtesy of MCpl Turner

MCpl Summerfield with the Red Ensign Photo by Combat Camera

Airborne Hairsporran Photo by MCpl Banks

Tactical Operations Staff Course It sometimes pays to be nice to the Operations NCO, because within a minute of seeing that message in my email inbox, he had already posted my affirmative reply up to Brigade. Now, I have to admit I didn't actually look past the first line of the email before sending my reply. All I could see was that I had volunteered for a trip away from a typi-cally cold Canadian spring, to someplace in Africa, where I assumed it would be hot. It wasn't until about a half hour later that I started thinking to myself, "Shit, now I have to convince my civilian boss that it was his idea to let me have the time off." There was a lot to do and only a limited amount of time to prepare. There was environmental kit to source. Kit to unpack and clean that had been sitting in a barrack box since coming back from Afghanistan (in my defense, I hadn't needed it while on a year long staff course). Break the news to my boss and arrange time off from my civilian job as a fire brigade Division Chief; all the while making him think it's a good idea. Break the news to the girlfriend; and also try and make her think it was both her idea, and a very good one at that, and yes I'll do it for you baby. Find someone to watch the house, the dog, the garden, and probably the girlfriend after the news was broken. I really was a bit preoccupied. And although I had the question of, "what exactly is a TOSC 15", it sat unanswered in the back of my mind until about a week before I started my pre-deployment training. To my surprise, Canada supports the training of African Union soldiers heading for Darfur and the African Union-United Nations Mission in Darfur (UNAMID). Who knew? Certainly not me. Perhaps it just follows along the lines of some of our national character traits; quietly and politely standing in the back-ground; hoping this is the best way to attract women, I mean international acclaim. Better yet maybe it's a military secret. As it happens, it turns out it is probably the former, as I found the information during my musings using Google and it was not on Wikileaks (certainly not a secret then)

Still a little tired from my own yearlong staff course in Kingston, I stifled a few yawns during my read and was able to grasp that a TOSC was probably going to be a Tactical Operations Staff Course, and that I was probably a perfect candidate being a freshly minted SO2. With still a few holes in my situational awareness, I at least had that staff officer's confidence; that I could still come up with a story to brief the boss, even if it was a little light on fact. Just appear confi-dent. Taking that new SO2 confidence, off I went on a CIMIC Operators course for a few weeks leading up to my deploy-ment without a care. It worked; as all was revealed with the joining instructions. I was to be the Administration Officer and an In-structor working out of the former International Mine Action Training Centre (IMATC) near Nairobi's airport in Em-bakasi, now known as the Humanitarian Peace Support School (HPSS). HPSS is a component of the International Peace Support Training Centre, operating in Karen, and supported by the UK’s British Peace Support Team (BPST-EA). I have been a little tongue in cheek until now, because I always find the boring bits more interesting with a bit of sarcasm, but DMTC does offer a great series of programs at a relatively very low cost in military terms. With a little more exposure to the organization, I was amazed to find that the budget was so low, $17 million, and the number of students so high, 1200 annually (repeated from above, in case you tuned out like I usually do when someone is spouting "facts"). The other thing that surprised me was that most of the instructional staff are like me, low cost territorial's, who have both some experience and some flexibility in getting time off. So in my case, I was off to the second of 3 iterations of this course running in 2010. The first was in Accra, Ghana at the Kofi Annan Centre, the second at HPSS and the third was planned for late fall in Botswana. Each of the courses, including lead up and post course administration, were completed during a two month cycle. So in early May, with a solid briefing under my belt, I found myself in Nairobi preparing to receive AU students from 12 nations across Africa. So, what were they going to do when they got there (if they get there, remember I'm now an SO2)? Well, this three week course is designed to increase the capacity of UNAMID, by providing students with a common framework and practical mission level training, based around an exercise scenario in the fictional African country of CARANA. The course was developed to assist AU soldiers working to forestall the crisis in Sudan’s war-ravaged Darfur region. Essen-tially, providing them with common staff planning and command post operations skills that are grounded in real-world scenarios, with a view to improving the effectiveness of peace support operations in the Sudan or in other potential mis-

PAGE 21

sions across Africa. The training is also geared to enable officers to understand all the phases of a peace support operation and to plan for both operational and logistical support. And for those of you who, like me, have been focusing on other semi-arid parts of the world; the UNAMID mis-sion began operations in Darfur in January 2008 to support the implementation of the Darfur Peace Agreement and to protect its personnel and civilians. So the training provided to these AU peacekeepers through the course is part of a com-prehensive response to the crisis in the Darfur Region, which also includes monetary and equipment supports from Can-ada. The other aspect of the course, and one that differs from other recent military activities across the globe, is that it was designed with an exit strategy as part of it’s framework. On each iteration of the course, former students are recruited to act as instructors. The AU instructors initially work under the tutelage of a Canadian instructor with the intent that the course would gradually be handed over to the control of an organization such as IPSTC or HPSS. The hand over is still a work in progress, but there are a growing number of instructors to draw on, and each course sees the AU instructors tak-ing a greater role. Coming from 12 different countries and all branches of the army; from catering officer to parachute infantry, the students were typical of any military course that I have been involved in, some were very switched on, some not so much, and then a large group in the middle. In this group, we had over 2/3 who had served on at least one AU or UN mission in Africa or Europe and about half where expecting to deploy on a peace support mission in the next year. The course itself was ideally situated geographically. Nairobi is a key location for NGO’s working in Africa. This made our task of sourcing experienced guest lecturers very easy to do. The fact that Kenyatta Airport is a major East African hub made the logistics that much easier. Easier is a relative term, and I imagine any of you who have worked in Africa have encountered the Hakuna Matatta philosophy of many of the businesses. So when it came time to locate all the equipment we had shipped, the response of “No worries, man. It will be here tomorrow”, often had me very worried. The highlight of the course for me was the final exercise (Blue Bonnet), where students establish and run their brigade level command post over a 72 hour period. Having just suffered the wrath of staff college exercise inserts, it was entertaining to be able to sit back and watch other students do the mental gymnastics when problem solving. They actu-ally did quite well in establishing a team based work environment. I am looking forward to continuing with this program and will be travelling to Accra, Ghana in February to participate as an instructor with TOSC 17. At the end of TOSC 15, over 380 African military officers had at-tended the training and acquired the basic skills necessary to effectively par-ticipate in peace keeping operations in mid to high intensity conflict environ-ments in Africa. Maj T Ruggle

PAGE 22

Majors Kiprutu (Kenya), Kinyua (Kenya) and Ruggle relaxing at Ngong House outside Nairobi. Hippos in Lake Nyvasha Photos Courtesy of Maj Ruggle

Rarely would the average Canadian citizen get the chance to experience and explore the vast, harsh and largely untouched arctic of Canada's northern regions. Even more rare is the opportu-nity to interact and work with local Inuit communities while serv-ing a purpose. That purpose being "Canada’s premier annual Northern sovereignty operation to conduct presence patrols and surveillance operations and to enhance the CF’s ability to operate in the space, air, land and sea domains of our Arctic". And also to demonstrate the CF’s cooperation with other government depart-ments and agencies in building our collective capacity to respond to emergencies in the North. What this meant for The Lorne Scots was operational action and training in the arctic to enhance our responsiveness and abilities to serve as part of the ARCG (arctic response company group). Our primary job was to serve JTFN (Joint Task Force North) Command as a Land element carrying out tasks such as presence patrols and community improvement projects, as well as surveillance and observation tasks. This duty had us move though and learn about the local township and its surrounding area. It also pushed us out to Baffin Island where we stayed a total of 3 days surveying, living and practicing our survival skills on Arctic ter-rain. Our secondary duty was to learn and train to survive and operate in arctic conditions during the summer period. This en-compassed a wealth of knowledge passed down for generations that helped Inuit people survive even the most harshest of condi-tions in the north and taught directly to us from Inuit elders and rangers from the local population and surrounding communities. Some of the lessons taught included how to make fox holes to trap foxes as a source of food, how to read and use inukshuk's, how to build and use improvised backpacks and fishing lures and finally how to make a bannok, an Inuit bread that is easy to make and has lasted through the ages feeding and keeping warm the people of Canada's sovereign north for years. In short Operation Nanook and its military component Ex NATSIQ were both raving successes which allowed for growth in military duty and conduct as well as personal gain. It was more than just another training opportunity, it was an experience, like no other and I feel lucky to have been apart of such a large and mean-ingful milestone in Canadian and Lorne Scots history. Cpl Devon Warner B Coy

The Inuksuk Marking the 1960 landing of the Inuit People on Cornwallis Island The Platoon Camp, surrounded by an Electric Bear Fence on Bylot Island The Platoon poses after a climb from Kate Austin Lake HMDS Knud Rasmussen HMCS Glace Bay Photos Courtesy of MCpl Banks

Op Nanook 2010

From 9 June to 30 June 2010 the Lorne Scots participated in the G20 summit. We, along with the remainder of 32 CBG be-gan our pre-training in Meaford where admin as well as much of the training was held. As we moved closer to Cadence we went to Borden for a final exercise before moving to Toronto for the Sum-mit. While in Meaford we were able to reaffirm many skills that some troops may have not touched on in some time. Things like firing our rifles, media awareness training, conflict resolution, and finally getting gassed (CF gas) were some of the points we touched on. We were also able to get caught up on how to use the NODLER as well as NVG's which were some tools many of us haven't had the opportunity to use in the past. Once we arrived in Toronto it became all too clear as to the importance of our role at the G20 Summit. We were tasked as outer perimeter security of Pearson Airport where we effectively secured a park that skirted the outer most fence of the airport. En-counters with the public were few and far between which was not surprising seeing as the police had a outer more perimeter around us; insuring the local populous stayed far away from any military personnel. Despite our readiness the military was not called in to help on the streets of Toronto, and the Police were able to handle the unruly crowds effectively and professionally without our help. This experience was however very enlightening for many of us. Working alongside police officers who are not only very knowledgeable but also friendly and willing to share their experi-ence was a true treat. The insight and professionalism they brought when working with us was very interesting and I for one look forward to future joint operations with them. All said and done Op Cadence was a success for the CF. The training was absorbed well, troops were kitted, and the num-bers needed for this operation was met. I look forward to the next Sovereignty Operation and I hope it goes as well as this last one did. Cpl ST Cronk B Coy Cpl Suagh with Constable Suagh at the G20 Photos from DND/CF

OP Cadence (G20 Summit) Task Force Toronto

Air Assault!


When I received a call from Capt Ryan asking if I had anyone to go on the course with me, I jumped on the occasion. I quickly got a hold of Cpl Cronk to explain to him the changing situation. After a few short days of running around, getting proper equipment and passports, we were on a plane to New York City. We landed at La Guardia International Airport, got a hold of our gear, and started our journey across NYC. We eventually made it to Grand Central Station and loaded a train to West Point/Camp Smith. We met up with our liaison - MSgt Secor - and settled into our room for the night. The next morning Air Assault kicked off. We loaded into MSgt Secor’s Jeep Patriot, stopped at Dunkin Donuts for breakfast which consisted of a litre of Coffee and a donut that would make a 300lb man sick. As we ate our breakfast we drove up to West Point. For those of you who have never seen West Point before, it is a sight that must be seen (add it to your bucket lists). It is a beautiful campus built into the side of a mountain, with large 200-300 year old buildings, all made/carved out of stone. We arrived at the main parade square, which was encapsulated with dormitories and classrooms, not to mention the 250+ rucksacks which littered the square. Cpl Cronk and I were extremely surprised to see a course this big. As we went through the gauntlet to sign off all of our paperwork, the clouds closed over and the rain began. It was a very fitting start to our course. A few hours later, we loaded the buses and took off to Camp Smith (a National Guard base a few miles outside of West Point). Once we arrived there, instead of settling down and getting into our shacks pre-paring for subsequent tasks as we would in any course we had been on before, we were quickly welcomed to the course. The Americans love to do something called “smoke” their soldiers. We were launched into a two hour series of kit inspections, burpees, pushups, squats, and holding our rucksacks above our heads. It was definitely a culture shock, not to mention the average humid 35oC degree temperatures. The next morning was called ZERO DAY. This stage consisted of a run and an obstacle course. Cpl Cronk and I finished the run in fairly good time, finishing in the top quarter. We than moved onto the obstacle course, there were twelve obstacles that we had to conquer, and the obstacles were not the issue. When moving from ob-stacle to obstacle, you were either lunging, or jumping the entire way. While we waited for obstacles they kept us in stress positions. Either doing burpees, push ups or jump-ing jacks, I remember one obstacle could only take one

person at a time, so the line up was at least eighty people long, and the wait was over an hour. Quite a long time to do continuous stress positions. When ZERO DAY was finished, Cpl Cronk and I returned home feeling very good about ourselves considering we lost about 15 candidates. The next day we kicked into Phase One – Pathfinder Operations. For all in class portions from here on out, they bussed us to West Point. Phase One was an extremely interesting portion of the course; we learned all about American rotary wing aircraft and their capabilities, and just how easy it is for them to rain death from above in support of ground forces.

PAGE 25


...Continued Other things we learned were hand signals from the ground to air, and how to sight a LZ & LP. The staff always felt the need to ensure that we were not slacking off, so they would again “smoke” us at every chance they had. They also introduced us to the “overhead arm clap”. Picture doing jumping jacks, but only your arms are moving. We did about 600 a day, usually about 200 at a time. There was also a six mile road march involved in this phase, we only had 1.5 hours to complete it, and a kit check was done after-wards. Failure to complete either resulted in your re-moval from training and around 10 candidates did not make it past this. In total after phase one we had only lost about 25 candidates. Phase Two kicked off with a bang, we learned how to sling load equipment from helicopters. Going into this phase, I was a bit worried, in Canada, sling load masters are required to do all sorts of math involving angles etc, and the Americans taught us to keep it simple. They had already done the math, and found out all of the angles and just engrained that into our brains, there was very little think-ing outside of the box, however finding defaults in the loads for the test proved difficult for some (including me). A deficiency could range from a side mirror not collapsed, to ¼ inch webbing being used instead of 550 cord. I missed one small deficiency on 1 of 4 loads and had to wait all day to retest along with 200 other candidates. Only 12 people on the entire course passed this phase, and Cpl Cronk was one of them. After all the testing was complete in this stage we had the opportunity for CH-147 Chinook and UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters to fly overhead and for us to actually hook sling loads up to them. In this phase a majority of the training failures were removed from training here, we lost about 30 after this phase. Phase Three was the most rewarding, we were on the rappel tower for three days straight, the Americans did not like the way Cpl Cronk and I rappelled as it was too “dangerous”. The way we teach rappelling in Canada makes us reach the bottom faster, the Americans do it at much slower rate. I felt at home during this phase as we were told that we were very confident on the tower, where other people couldn’t even make it to the top. This was a simple portion of the course, and it ended with us jumping out of UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters from about 80 feet in the air. The final test was a 12 mile (roughly 20km) road march in less than 3 hours; it also included a kit check at the end. This part of the course is fun to think back on, the path was lined with soldiers who had been removed from training, so they could watch us finish, it was also mostly uphill, and when we weren’t going up hill we were running. Cpl Cronk and I finished in 2:45, and completed our kit check – Air Assault was now finished and we were successful. The same can not be said for the West Point Ca-det next to me who was missing a PT shirt, he was removed from training because of it, on the last day after he had finished the 12 mile march. Finally we went onto grad parade, had our “blood wings” pinned into our chest, and we were on our way back home. Air Assault was over, and a few short days later we were on our way to the Arctic for Operation Nanook 2010. Air Assault! Lt Proulx

PAGE 26


His Royal Highness, Prince Edward, The Duke of Kent & Colonel in Chief of the Lorne Scots paid the Regiment a Royal Visit in May. HRH came to Canada to visit with the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards who were training at BATUS (British Army Training Unit Suffield) in southern Alberta. HRH last visited the Lorne Scots in 2001, when he presented new colours to the Regiment at the Trooping of the Colour in Brampton. HRH and his staff were greeted by the Quarter Guard led by Sgt Roper on the steps of the Brampton Armoury. After a quick inspection, HRH came into the Brampton Armouries to meet the Officers and Soldiers of the Regiment during RPG and AK47 familiarization trained led by Sgt Boreczek. Sgt Kelly led B Company through the sizing and issuing of the new CADPAT Rucksacks. The new ruck, which is sized for the individual and formed using “Stays”, is just another step in the Clothe the Soldier program. OP Cadence Individual Battle Task Standards (IBTS) training was also on the days timetable.

Later, CWO Murphy welcomed The Duke of Kent into the Sgts & WO’s Mess where HRH met with the Senior NCOs of the Regiment. A warm day in May was countered by the camara-derie of the Sr NCOs Mess. HRH was invited into the Officers Mess for the remainder of the eve-ning where the Officers of the Regiment wel-comed HRH, with the aid of the Regimental Sen-ate. Officers who were not part of the Regiment on His last visit were finally able to meet the Duke of Kent.

Sadly, HRH could only stay for a short visit and was escorted to Pearson Airport the next morning. Turn out on the Friday of the May long weekend was higher than expected and the Regi-ment was able to show its dedication. We look forward to the next visit from His Royal Highness, The Duke of Kent. MCpl Banks

The Duke of Kent Visits The Lorne Scots

Sgt Roper forms up his Quarter Guard for the Arrival of HRH Sgt Monteith speaks to the Duke of Kent about the Foreign Weapons on display Photos by WO Nault PAGE 27


Lorne Scots participate in Gallipoli Parade

On the 25 April 1915, the 1st Battalion The Lancashire Fusiliers struggling through barbed wire and into a hail of deadly Turkish machine gun fire landed at Cape Helles the southernmost tip of the Gallipoli Peninsula in European Turkey. Against all odds and by sheer determination and raw courage, the Battalion gained a precarious foot hold on the peninsula and gained 6 Victoria Crosses in the process, the famous “6 VCs before breakfast”.

This year despite the Eruption of the Eyjafjallajökull Volcano in Iceland Drum Major Ian McGibbon and myself had the pleasure of attending Gallipoli Weekend in Bury. We were greeted at the Airport by the The Rev’d Hugh Bearn, Vicar of Tottington (Manchester), who is also Chaplain to the Queen. Hugh is regimental headquarters padre and is also the Father of Freddie who played with the Pipes and Drums during the opening of the Museum. Following tea and a tour of the Parish it was on to Castle Armoury where we where hosted for the weekend by Ches Hodgson. That first night also included a very long night out in Manchester with WO2 Tony Power (Ret’d) who some of you will remember visited the Regiment for the Winter Exercise in Meaford. We attended the Gallipoli commemoration dinner on Saturday evening at Radcliffe Civic Hall. There are greetings from everyone to all members of the association from many friends including Joe Eastwood, John O' Grady, Eric Davidson, Jim Martlew and of course Colonel Brian Gorski, Colonel of the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers (Lancashire).

Sunday began with the parade forming up in Castle Armoury at which time I had the pleasure of pre-senting the Fusilier Association Lancashire with a miniature of our Regimental Colours, I have been assured that it will find a place of honour in the Fusilier Museum. We then marched to Bury Parish Church which is the garrison church of the Lancashire Fusiliers and for those interested in Regimental history a visit to the church is recommended as well as enjoying the dedicated Fusilier Museum, located a few hundred yards away on Broad Street. Following the church service the parade formed on The

Rock and the procession then made its way towards Silver Street,

watched by many members of the public. At the front of the pro-

cession were the Fusilier Band and Corps of Drums Lancashire, as

RSM I even got the Drum Major a mace (fixed with scotch tape

from The Robert Peel) and we proudly marched in the procession

with the Drum Major leading the parade. BURY town centre came

to a standstill to pay tribute to the heroes of Gallipoli who earned

the Lancashire Fusiliers their greatest honours. It was probably

one of the times that I was most proud that we wear the primrose

hackle, the link between our two Regiments. In all around 250 peo-

ple took part in the annual parade and service which marked the

95th anniversary of Gallipoli. It was then off the museum for a tour

and a few pints. I must say that the museum is a great place to

visit and as the second floor gets completed there will be a larger

Lorne Scots display. We had an excellent trip made all the more

enjoyable by our hosts.

CWO Murphy

RSM

Royal Regiment of Fusiliers Colours The RSM Presents the RRF a mini Lorne Scots Colours Photos courtesy of CWO Murphy

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Monday Nights @ The Powerade Centre Kennedy Rd South of Steeles in Brampton

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www.TRUENORTHHOCKEY.com


Wild Boars Hockey

What does it mean to be Canadian? To be Canadian, one must share Canadian values, things such as: freedom, democracy, free speech, draught beer, multiculturalism and last but certainly not least… hockey. Certain members of this Regiment have formed a team of players and have been rep-resenting the unit in true TFLS fashion… As the Wild Boars hit the ice in the 2009/10 season, they were cheered on by family, friends and members of the Regiment. Returning as Division champions from the previ-ous year, the pressure was on to perform and they did not dis-appoint, finishing 3rd in the league after over 30 games of play. The play of the team was so remarkable that for the 2010/11 season the Wild Boars were bumped up to the B di-vision, a visit shortly lived after a 1-4 streak. At the Scheuster / Snidden memorial tournament in 2009/10 the Wild Boars were victorious with only 8 players on the bench facing a full roster 48th Highlanders. We drew to a tied match with the Queens Own Rifles (much to our frus-tration) and took part in a heart breaking match in the third game against the Toronto Police Service (who incidentally won the tournament). We would not be deterred and made our way east of the Lorne Scots AOR… In Brockvegas… correction, Brockville, the Wild Boars put forth a solid effort but were unable to break into the quarter finals, despite two games won. Despite a disappoint-ing turn of events on the ice, our team members did the unit proud by attending the Brockville Rifles tournament dinner, where a Wild Boar was chosen as the tournament MVP. Our team, however, is not made up of one or two tal-ented players, but a full roster with each member bringing something unique to the line-up. Let me introduce you to our players: (see right) So if you find yourself on a Monday evening with nothing to do, come watch a Wild Boars game, our schedule can be found on the web at www.truenorthhockey.com

MCpl Bryan Cronk #3

Cpl Matt Bobinski pauses during a pre-game warm up;

Below, Wild Boars score a goal in early 2010

2010 - 2011 Team Roster

#1 Cpl Fedor “Chernobyl” Kutschy

#2 Sgt Andrew “H” Harris

#3 MCpl Bryan “Byron” Cronk

#7 HCpl Jeff “Ref, are you serious?” Harris

#9 Sgt Erin “V-Neck” Kelly

#11 Cpl Shayne “Toby Flenderson” Brioux

#12 Cpl Kyle “Dangles” Pulis

#13 Sgt Tony “Taped Knuckles” Crawford

#17 Lt Matt “No Nick-Name” Proulx

#20 Sgt Mike “I had a Kase once” Kase

#4 Cpl Tommy “Tom Bomb” Cronk

#8 Lt Russell “Otto” Cook

#15 MCpl Ted “Teddy” Teoh

#16 Cpl Matt “Boobie” Bobinski

#29 CWO Derek “Heavy D” Murphy

#69 Lt Jack “Handsome Jack” Hardill

Goalie

Right Wing

Centre

Centre

Right Wing

Left Wing

Right Wing

Left Wing

Left Wing

Right Wing

Defenseman

Defenseman

Defenseman

Defenseman

Defenseman

Defenseman

#5 Pte JP Cote Right Wing

PAGE 29


The Devil’s Brigade & The Bronze Star

Skiing, Parachutes, Mountaineering, Knife Fighting, Unarmed Combat. These are just a few of the skills learned in the 1st Special Service Force.

First formed July 9th, 1942 to strike high value targets behind enemy lines in Normandy, this unit was comprised of Canadian and American Soldiers. They trained in Montana and Vermont, before being shipped to the European Theatre in August of ‘43. Their successful attack on Monte La Defensa inspired the movie “The Devils Brigade”, despite suffering 77% casualties. In 1944, the Devils Brigade moved to Anzio Beachhead, south of Rome, replacing the US Rangers who had suffered heavy casu-alties. 1st Lt. Edward “Ted” Conover of the Lorne Scots had left his post as platoon commander in the 2nd Corps Defence Coy in the UK to serve in Anzio as 1 Platoon Commander, 6 Coy, 2nd Regiment, 1st SSF, after a months training in Avellino, Italy. Lt Conover had volunteered for Active Service after originally joining the Regiment as a bandsman. His brother, Jim, was serving in 5 Brigade Defence Platoon in Europe. Jim Conover had also volunteered for active service, but was killed in Europe. 1st and 3rd Regiment of the 1st SSF held the line along the Mussolini Canal, while 2nd Regiment sent fighting patrols into en-emy territory, day and night, often using boot polish to blacken their faces. A diary of a dead German read “The black devils (Die schwarzen Teufel) are all around us every time we come into the line.”, which is how they got their name, the Black Dev-ils, or the Devils Brigade. The enemy had doubled their minefields, and on May 1st 1944 6 Coy was ordered to attack Cerrete Alto. Lt. Conover lead his platoon into a firing position, unfortunately it was in the middle of a minefield. Not just any mine-field, but a minefield with new, mostly wooden mines, undetectable to minesweepers. The platoon scout, an American named Bill Berg stepped on a mine. Lt Conover ordered his platoon to get down, but went after his wounded man himself. Lt Conover had now stepped on yet another mine. Sgt Ray Plough, another American, came in and picked up Lt. Conover, but stepped on a mine himself launching himself and Lt Conover into the air. His platoon suffered 18 casualties to that mine field. Lt Conover had lost only the back of his heel, but was still sent home, aboard the hospital ship Lady Nelson. Many doctors argued with him about amputating his foot, or his leg, but Lt Conover wouldn't have it. He was demobilized in 1944. Luckily, a few Russian doctors, who just happened to be touring the Toronto Hospital where Lt Conover was staying, were able to save his foot as they had a lot of experience with mine wounds. During his stay at the Hospital, he enrolled in the University of Guelph. The 1st Special Service Force went on to fight in Southern France and were ultimately disbanded in December of 1944. The Devils Brigade was the first of its kind and is held as the origin of most modern Special Forces Units in Canada and the USA, including JTF2 and CSOR. The war was over for Lt Conover, but he wasn’t finished with the military yet. He continued to progress through the ranks. He was LCol Kemp’s Deputy Commanding Officer. In 1961 he was promoted to Lieutenant Colo-nel and appointed Commanding Officer of the Lorne Scots, a post his father held with the Peel Regiment in 1922. Under his command, the Lorne Scots won the Gzowski Trophy for Best Reserve Regiment in Canada. Col Conover retired after stepping down from CO in 1965. He was appointed Honorary Lieutenant Colonel, then Honorary Colonel. He currently sits on the board for the Regimental Trust Fund. In 1945, all American members of the 1st Special Service Force received the Bronze Star for their service in Italy. No Canadian member received this award, until August of 2006, 61 years later. On June 20th 2009 at the Lorne Scots Change of Command Parade in Milton, the Honorary Colonel, HCol John McDermid PC, presented Col Conover his Bronze Star. The Bronze Star and the rest of Col Conover’s medals & badges are on display at the Lorne Scots Regimental Museum in Brampton. MCpl Banks

Top Left: 1st SSF Patch

Top Right: The Bronze

Star

Left: 1st Lt. Conover on

the right at Anzio, April

1944

Right: The Honorary

Colonel presents Col

Conover the Bronze Star,

2009

PAGE 30

When a Lorne Scot moves on from the unit, they are not forgotten, but we do often lose touch. Here’s a few former Lornes who wanted to keep in touch while they continue their service elsewhere.

Name:

WO Bert Hiscock, Ret’d Military Member Since:

1975 Dates Served with Lorne Scots:

1986-1991, 1997 - 2007

Current Trade:

INF Current Unit (Force):

RCR Dates Served with Current Unit:

August 8,1975-October 29,2009

Message to the Lorne Scots:

Thank you for keeping me on your list, I always enjoy hearing from the unit and it’s members. I have many friends in the unit and stay in contact with them.

Name:

PO2 Rex Heslop Military Member Since:

14 November 1994 Dates Served with Lorne Scots:

14 November1994 – 9 October 2002

Current Trade:

Naval Electronic Sensor Operator

Current Unit (Force):

HMCS Vancouver Dates Served with Current Unit:

3 August 2007 - Present


I am currently writing this while steaming northbound after a port visit in Guayaquil, Ecuador. Thanks to the powers of email I am able to send my well wishes to all you who are still snappin’ necks and cashing cheques in the Lorne Scots. Hope all is well back there.


PAGE 31


Name:

PO1 Joseph Abando Military Member Since:

21 April 1978 Dates Served with Lorne Scots:

21 April 1978 – 26 August 1983

Current Trade:

Naval Electronics Technician Current Unit (Force):

MARLANT CFNES Dates Served with Current Unit:

Various units / ships to present date


Always looking to connect with ex and current members of the Lorne Scots. It a great organization and if I was still in the area, I would be first in line to get back in. Go B COY! Even prior to Apr 78 when I was a member of the Lorne Scots Cadet Corp in Brampton, 557 RCACC and I even spent a few years with the Lorne Scots Pipes and Drum Band. I hope to make connections with you all and best wishes to everyone.

Name:

Lt Santiago Duque Military Member Since:

June 2004 Dates Served with Lorne Scots:

June 2004-June 2005

Current Trade:

EME Officer Current Unit (Force):

5eme Bn des Services Dates Served with Current Unit:

December 2010- Present


What’s up gentlemen, I’m doing my best to keep in contact with everyone even though I’m out in Valcartier. I want to thank again the boys that were present for my RMC graduation parade in May 2009. Bryan Cronk, Phil Reider, Kwaku Wiafe, Vic Romita, Matt Proulx, Joe Chu and Lisa Demarco. I also would like to point out that Phil Reider was the first one out of the entire graduation ball (close to 1000 people) to get so hammered and pass out by 9pm. Also, if you look really hard you can see Kwaku in the picture, it’s a really dark picture but you can see his giant smile. Winslow Taylor: still waiting on the completion of your 2008 new years resolution. And Lonnie Naughton… no you still cannot meet my mom. Love you brothers Air Son Air Duthchais Santi

PAGE 31

Name:

Patryk Wegrzyn Military Member Since:


2000-2007

Current Trade:

Traffic Tech Current Unit (Force):

2 Air Mov SQN (AIR) Dates Served with Current Unit:

2007-Present


Hey everyone, Just want to say hi to everyone in the unit and that the Lorne Scots are still by far the best unit I have had the pleasure to serve with. B Company!! B Company!! Pat


CONTINUED…..

Name:

Ryan Potts Military Member Since:

7 January 1999 Dates Served with Lorne Scots:

1999-2003

Current Trade:

Combat Tracker (Civilian) Current Unit (Force):

Combat Tracking Operations School

Dates Served with Current Unit:

2010-Present


My time with the unit were years well spent, and the skills that I learned have served me well. Work-ing for men such as Lorimer, Biber, and Kase taught me a lot, and since then, few leaders have com-pared in significance. I cleared out in order to pursue university, and following that I became a helicop-ter operator, but I missed patrolling and have since moved into private work. I was brought down to the Mexican border in conjunction with US agencies dealing in cartels, and my time on the ground earned me a position with a tracking school in Arizona. My services will be utilized globally with teams deal-ing with insurgents, trafficking, and poaching. Some advice, do everything that is available to you, and let no one tell you that your ambitions are unrealistic.

PAGE 33


Name:

Jay Foster Military Member Since:

June 1991 Dates Served with Lorne Scots:

June 1991 – August 1994

Current Trade:

Cbt Engr Current Unit (Force):

LFCA TC Meaford Dates Served with Current Unit:

2001 to present


Name:

Dan Schmidt Military Member Since:

October 1984 Dates Served with Lorne Scots:

October 1984- January 1993

Current Trade:

Infantry Current Unit (Force):

2 PPCLI Dates Served with Current Unit:

January 1994- present


Camaraderie across the CF pales in comparison to that which I've been lucky enough to be part of in the Lorne Scots. Thanks to a strong unit for instilling dedication, hard work, and vigor into my core. What do the 2 "I's" in Team stand for? Initiative and Innovation! Remember your roots Dan Schmidt Both pictures taken on EX here in Shilo. Just came out of the field on a HMG crse, and took the one of me in the HLVW. Should've taken one with the 'fiddy', but my brain was cold…

Name:

Iain Clark Military Member Since:

22 Feb. 1999 Dates Served with Lorne Scots:

Feb.1999-Sept.2003, May 2007-Jan.2008

Current Trade:

AVN Tech Current Unit (Force):

429 Sqn. Dates Served with Current Unit:

10 June 2010


Greetings to the Lorne Scots from a former member. I hope the unit is still as professional and moti-vated as I remember it! I’m sure it has only improved since those days. May the unit’s soldiers who are currently serving overseas remain safe, and may they return home to their family and friends with lots of advice and experience to pass on to the newer members. 429 is continuing to work hard in sup-port of the Canadian troops around the world and I’m sure many Lorne Scots (headed to, or from over-seas duty) will find themselves aboard our CC-177’s in the near future if they have not already. Hope-fully you enjoy the spacious accommodations! Thanks to the unit for instilling in me a professional approach to all CF related roles when I was trained by them. This is something that I have retained ever since.

PAGE 34


CONTINUED….. Name:

David White Military Member Since:

November 1994 Dates Served with Lorne Scots:

November 1994 – July 2002

Current Trade:

Naval Communicator Current Unit (Force):

CFB Esquimalt/ Base Information Services

Dates Served with Current Unit:

December 2006 to Present


Hey guys Life is going good in beautiful Victoria British Columbia. Navy life is different than army life the main thing I notice is the lack of a feeling like you are part of a family like you do in the Regiment. Some of my best experiences and happiest memories happened in the Lorne Scots. Take care guys and I will see you soon. Whitey

Name:

Taylor, RA Military Member Since:


12 January 1997 – 1 November 2000

Current Trade:

Infantry Current Unit (Force):

3 RCR Reg. F Dates Served with Current Unit:

2 November 2000 - Present


I would like to say Hi to my former Regiment and fire team partners. I unfortunately have not been back to visit recently however I have had the privilege of seeing some of you on operations overseas and on courses in Petawawa. I would also like to wish you all a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year and a safe return to all the members currently serving on deployment. “Pro Patria” Sgt Taylor, R.A. Recce Pl 3RCR

PAGE 35


Name:

Maj Greg Betts Military Member Since:

Dec ember 1986 Dates Served with Lorne Scots: 557 Lorne Scots Brampton Cadets 1976-82 PRES - December 1986 to Present

Current Trade:

Infantry Officer

Current Unit (Force):

LFCA TC Meaford Dates Served with Current Unit:

September 2002 - Present (including OP Palladium roto 13)


I am currently employed as the LFCA Area Chief Standards Officer. I spent this past summer in Sault Ste Marie as the Detachment Commander for the Training Centre overseeing the Artillery courses be-ing conducted in Sault Ste Marie and Grayling Michigan. I look forward to seeing members of the Regiment as they come to Meaford for training. I will be out and about visiting training courses throughout Ontario in the next year. Have a great year everyone!

PAGE 36

Name:

Jodee Trott Military Member Since:

November 12/1997 Dates Served with Lorne Scots:

November 12/1997 to March 15 2002

Current Trade:

Avionics tech Current Unit (Force):

4 Wing Cold Lake 1 AMS Dates Served with Current Unit:

November / 2003 to present time


Hello everybody its been a long time for most that I have spoken to, but hope everyone is doing well and have fulfilled there career ambitions and settled down with a spouse and those of you who haven’t hope your keeping the name going for the Horny Lornes. Going reg force was the best thing I ever did, making good money and have all the toys, own my own house and rental property, engaged to a beautiful woman with a gorgeous ( that ones for Las AKA Gorgeous) daughter. Life is going fairly well after the loss of my second daughter Rayna who was almost 3 yrs old. One day when we make it back to Ontario it would be nice to see some old faces again but until then keep well and play safe. Jodee Trott


CONTINUED…..

Submissions for the 2011 “Shout Outs” are being accepted now!

Name:

Hanna Dosa Military Member Since:

May 1997 Dates Served with Lorne Scots:

May 1997 – January 2007

Current Trade:

Sup Tech Current Unit (Force):

ASU Chilliwack Dates Served with Current Unit:

January 2007 - present


I hope you all are doing well and I miss seeing your smiling faces. I am currently posted to ASU Chilli-wack in BC since Aug/10 and spent the last 3 and half years in Halifax, NS onboard ship HMCS Mont-real. I have a little boy Mason who is 15 months old who is starting to talk and has a ton of energy. I am on Facebook if any of you would like to keep in touch. I wish you all happiness and good health. Hanna Dosa

PAGE 37

Name:

Ryan Lock Military Member Since:


January 2001— October 2003

Current Trade:

Military Police Current Unit (Force):

ASU Toronto MP Det Dates Served with Current Unit:

October 2003—Present


Left the Regiment Oct 2003 and transferred to the reserve Military Police. Deployed to Afghanistan Aug 06 to March 07 with 2 MP PL, attached to Charles Company RCR Battle Group. Transferred to the Reg Force MP 2007, Posted to CFB Halifax, Posted to ASU Toronto July 2009. Just wanted to say hi to all the members of the Regiment both past and present. I've seen some familiar faces that I was either on course with or on tour with throughout the years but for the most part not to many people are still in from when I joined! The parties at B Coy were always a good time and I've never experienced that anywhere else during my military travels.


*Shout outs appear in the order they were received.

Name:

George Steve Loza Military Member Since:

January 1999 Dates Served with Lorne Scots:

January 1999- May 2001

Current Trade:

Combat Engineer Current Unit (Force):

2 CER / CFSME Dates Served with Current Unit:

2CER December 2001- July 2010/ CFSME July 2010 to present.


All the best to all Lorne Scots, it was an honour to wear the Regiments colors during my service with the unit. Still a Lorne scot at heart and always remembering the lads and the good times, The Lorne Scots definitely positively influenced my career today in the regular forces as a Combat Engineer in the sense of duty, dedication, camaraderie, which I learned at the ranks of the Lorne Scots. Kabul Roto 0 Kabul Roto 3 Kandahar TF 3-06 Sappers Clear the Way…

Name:

Tim Hussey Military Member Since:


January 1976-March 1982

Current Trade:

Vehicle Technician Current Unit (Force):

LSS Maint Kingston Dates Served with Current Unit:

August 2010


Sorry about the late return. I was laid up with 5 broken ribs from a motorcycle accident in October and I have just got back to work.

PAGE 38


From the Desk of Capt Ryan : History of the 76th Bn

The following is an excerpt taken from the Historical record of the 76th Overseas Battalion of the Canadian Expeditionary Force, 1915-1916. REGIMENTAL MOTTO: The motto of the Battalion is "STAND FAST." TRAINING IN WINTER QUARTERS: Battalion was given a day s halt at Hamilton, and on Wednesday, Nov. 10th, entrained for Winter Quarters at Barrie, etc. Halts on the journey were made at Georgetown where a lavish supply of provisions was brought by the ladies of the town for the men and at Cookstown, which had done so well in recruiting. The band played selections at both places, much to the delight of the townsfolk. On reaching Allandale Junction, the left half Battalion, which was to winter in Barrie, detrained, and the Colonel was greeted officially by the Mayor and Corporation of Barrie (J. H. Craig, Esq., Mayor); the Par-liamentary Representative of the Riding of South Simcoe (W. A. Boys, Esq., K.C.), and the Representatives of the various local public bodies. Without loss of time the troops formed column of route and preceded by the official representatives, Boy Scouts, Cadet Corps, etc., marched to the Armouries in Queen s Park, making a circuit of the principal streets of the town. On arriving at the Park addresses of welcome were delivered by the Mayor of Barrie, and Mr. Boys, M.P., after which the men were entertained by the ladies of the town at dinner in their Mess Rooms. Reassem-bling on the East of the Armouries after dinner the Colonel, in a very few but most telling sentences, called on the men to respond to the trust and confidence reposed in them, and to prove themselves worthy of the regard and esteem of the townsfolk. Quickly settling down into their new Quarters the work of training was carried steadily on, the weather, up till Xmas, keeping sufficiently open to enable tactical exercises to be worked out and practical schemes of attack and defence to be studied, and, even after a more rigorous season of snow, frost and intense cold set in, the desire to attain proficiency and to satisfy the rigorous requirements of the O.C., so enthused the rank and file, that, through the many weeks of varying climatic conditions; snow, thaw, slush, frost, ice (skating rink quality), flurries and heavy fall, there was nothing but a ready response to the commands of Company Officers and their N.C.O. s when the men were called out to follow the Colonel in Route Marches, or to engage in the various field exercises of an intensely practical character which the O.C. devised, whether at Shell Trap Farm, or Lake Shore Road, away to Midhurst or hiking along the Penetang Road. Learning by our mistakes, the half Battalion in Barrie and the Companies in Orillia and Collingwood steadily progressed, and it was with a confidence in their ability to stand any test, that the visit of the G.O.C. 2nd Division Brig.-Gen. W. A. Logic, on Feb. 4th, 1916, to inspect the Battalion was looked forward to with the hope that it would seal the 76th with the much wished for word of approval, "Fit and ready for Overseas." That the outlying Companies and the Headquarters Parade earned this encomium, can hardly be doubted, al-though owing to the state of the parade ground at Barrie little drill could be performed, yet at Collingwood and Orillia intense satisfaction was given to the G.O.C. by the Companies and he expressed himself as satisfied with the past work and present condition of the Battalion. The War Office in England having asked the Government of Canada for an immediate despatch of 14 Battalions to the Old Land, the 76th are polishing up and awaiting the expected call. "Venial quam celerrime."

PAGE 39


From the Desk of Pte Lack : The Primrose Hackle

It is an honour to be a Lorne Scot because my late father marched with the Lorne Scots many years ago. Thus, the Lorne Scots holds a personal significance embedded through my late father’s memory. However, others consider the Primrose Hackle as their most significant source of honour. The Primrose Hackle is given to individuals of their graduation day, for many remember the honour felt on their graduation day and their Primrose Hackle elicits those feel-ings of honour. The Lorne Scots is rich with honour. To grasp an understanding of honour, the definitions of honour consist of the following: privilege, esteem and a showing of respect. These are individual factors that reinforce espirit de corps or morale. Due to the Primrose Hackle’s significance source of honour or morale, I have researched the Primrose. My re-search findings have provided me with some inspirational insight into the Primrose; therefore, I wish readers to be inspired by these findings too. Many know that the merger between the Lancaster Fusiliers and the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers resulted in the Lorne Scots Hackle: the Primrose. This was an honourable moment for the Lorne Scots, for our sister regiment gave us the Hackle for safe keeping. In essence, the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers trusts the Lorne’s Scot’s ability to protect the Primrose. However, many may not know that Hackles are commonly worn by Fusilier Regiments with Scottish de-cent. Moreover, many botanists associate the Primrose with the famous eighteenth-century Scottish Botanists, Robert Brown. His military service influenced his interest in botany. Brown had dropped out of Medical school because he discovered his passion of botany, and one year later he enlisted in the Fife Shire Fencibles. His post in Ireland provided him with much leisure, which he focused on botany. It was this Scottish native’s military service that contributed to the present discipline of botany. Consequently, his military service provided us with some insight into the Primrose. Hence, the Primrose comes in different variations; however, the Scottish Primrose is yellow. Thus, a floweriest or flower enthusiast’s knowledge of the Primroses col-ours can be attributed a Scottish native’s (Robert Brown) contribution to botany just as Can-ada’s Lorne Scots can attribute the significance of their Primrose Hackle to a Scottish bota-nist’s military service. A historian associates the Primrose with the Second Anglo-Afghan War, for the great British General Primrose triggers historian’s memory recall of his famous letter of the Second Angle-Afghan War. In this letter sent to fellow General Roberts, General Primrose described the recent change or worsened conditions of Kandahar’s seize. By the time the fellow General Roberts had received this letter, he already led ten-thousand men approximately halfway from Kabul to Kandahar. Despite the changed conditions, General Roberts and his men continued to march through the Afghan summer’s temperature of one-hundred degrees, an approximate 480 kilometres, over thirty kilometres a day, the course of sixteen days. Eventually, they ar-rived and the final battle of the Second Anglo-Afghan war occurred with their arrival. The Prim-rose may elicit a different significance to a Lorne Scot than to a historian or botanist. For in-stance, the Primrose may elicit emotional feelings of comrade in a Lorne Scot. Thus, a Lorne Scot not only views the Primrose as a symbolic Hackle or a historic relevance of Second An-glo-Afghan, but also a Lorne Scot views the Primrose as reflection of the British Military’s ca-pabilities past down to the present Lorne Scots of the Canadian Forces. Today, the Lorne Scots demonstrate their capabilities in today’s Afghan conflict and return home to wear their prized Primrose.

Pte Brendan R. Lack, A Coy

PAGE 40


This was the most important decision up to date in my life, and the lives of a few friends. Joining the

army is not necessarily the right thing for everyone. It takes a lot of hard work, motivation, determination, and dis-

cipline to be a soldier. When I filled out my paperwork and handed it in a lot of time passed before I had heard

anything, and I was starting to think I hadn't made the cut. However, I got that call saying my initial testing and

interviews would begin soon. Not too long after my testing finished I received another call telling me I was to be

sworn in the next week, and I had better shave my head.

BMQ came in a flash. In no time at all I was in the Georgetown armoury being introduced to the other

candidates and our staff members. Our group was lucky enough to be part of the high school co-op program, and

we quickly learned this was going to be nothing like school anymore. Of course there were some theory lessons on

the military, about things such as laws, or how-to's, but most of the course consisted of hands on work and fitness.

Not only did we have to learn how to wear the uniform, but we had to earn the right to wear it as well. Everything

in the army had to be earned, from your uniform, to your rank, to the respect of others. We got our first taste of CS

Gas in the Meaford gas hut while on BMQ. Everyone was excited but nervous for this new experience. All we

knew was that if we screwed up what we were taught it was going to burn. It was the first time a lot of us had held

real weapons like the C7A1. We were all really excited about the concept of finally firing it. Our group quickly got

used to the weight of the C7, using the best method possible - hold it straight out in front of you. Drill was another

concept we had to quickly grasp. Learning to march in step to a proper cadence looks a lot easier on T.V. then it is

in real life. Not only marching, but rifle drill as well. If we even hoped to go on with our training we had to pass

our drill test.

Because of the co-op program, BMQ and BMQ Land had been combined, which strongly benefitted our

group. BMQ land was another new adventure for us troops. We got to use the C6 and C9 machine guns, as well as

grenades. We learned a bit more about the specifics of being in the army, especially life out in the field, where we

dug trenches and performed fire fights and section attacks against enemy forces. We did a lot of shooting, and a lot

of cleaning afterwards. We had an opportunity to run through the obstacle course in Meaford. All in all, these two

courses opened our eyes to the ways of the army, and were a few of the most crucial months in our young careers.

Next we were on to our DP1 Infantry course. This lasted all of July and into August. The infantry course

is what gets us really prepared to be deployed in an infantry role, and as riflemen in a section. It consisted of con-

stant physical training as well as drill, sleep deprivation, field work, and extensive weapons handling on the pla-

toon level. We lost quite a few guys from our BMQ/BMQ land group, but we made quite a number of new friends.

We spent 2 weeks in the field, not getting a lot of rest at all. We became a pretty close platoon, and even closer on

the section level. We relied on our friends to keep pushing just that extra bit harder. It seems like the 5 or so weeks

just slipped away, and like that we were graduating our DP1, receiving our unit head dress, and shaking hands with

some of the most important people within our units.

As stated earlier, the army is not always right for

everyone. However, the benefits and opportunities that I

am now faced with are almost endless, and can't be found

anywhere else. Not only have I gained some friends who

are now more like brothers, but I am gaining a whole sec-

ond family from the Lorne Scots.

Pte Miller

B Coy

PAGE 41

In The Army Now

The Regiment is pleased to announce the following Promotions and Awards The Regiment is pleased to announce the following Promotions and Awards The Regiment is pleased to announce the following Promotions and Awards The Regiment is pleased to announce the following Promotions and Awards

Promotions and Awards

Congratulations to all the members of the Regiment AboveCongratulations to all the members of the Regiment AboveCongratulations to all the members of the Regiment AboveCongratulations to all the members of the Regiment Above

Maj Ruggle Promoted 31 Mar 2010

MCpl Suagh Promoted 11 Sep 2010

MCpl Crispin Promoted 11 Sep 2010

MCpl Yataco, J Promoted 11 Sep 2010

Sgt Rieder Promoted 9 Sep 2010

Sgt Katona-Smith Promoted 9 Sep 2010

Sgt O`Brien Received the CD1 1 May 2010

Capt Bean Received the CD2 9 June 2010

Sgt Monteith Received the CD 9 Feb 2010

WO Colbeck Received the CD 16 Feb 2010

Sgt Garceau Received the CD 16 Mar 2010

Cpl Hornell Received the GCM 30 Apr 2010

Brampton Santa Claus Parade T’was the 20th of November, and for once, the streets were clear in Downtown Brampton. Nothing got through, except the steady stream of ZUM Transit Busses. Citizens set up their chairs and wrapped up in blankets as the sun set on Main Street. But, from around the corner, the flashing lights from Peel Police’s Classic Cruiser lit up the street, and 2010 Brampton Santa Claus Parade had begun. The Brampton Board of Trade organized the 25th Annual Brampton Santa Claus Parade hoping to make this the largest yet. The parade began in 1986 after a 10 year hiatus, and in 1995 was changed to a night time parade to increase attendance. In 2007, the Santa Claus Parade attendance was 155,000 specta-tors, making it the largest event in the Region of Peel. This year, the Lorne Scots were proud to be a part of the Parade. A small contribution from the unit to say the least, but an enthusiastic one nonetheless. Lt. Hardill, led B Company proudly through the parade route. Down Main Street, past City Hall, the same place the Company had stood just 9 days earlier for Remembrance Day. And the reception? Just as before, the citizens of Brampton showed their pride and thanks to the Regiment. Cheers and applause from grateful Canadians filled the silent night. B Coy showed their respect in true form, “MERRY CHRISTMAS” was heard over and over from the ranks, WO Roper would actually make a good Santa impersonator. The Lorne Scots have always been a proud part of the community, and this was just another way to repay the city for all we have received. Phase II: NORAD will pre-pare for Christmas this year by keeping track of Santa’s trip on radar screens. He can be tracked by young ones at home at www.NORADSANTA.org MCpl Banks


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Atts & Dets : Canadian Ranger ‘Abs’ ATV Training Sling Loading a Griffon Extraction by Twin Otter Bridge of the HMCS Glace Bay Photos by MCpl Chris Banks


Cpl Chris Varga stands guard on the Brampton Ceno-taph Photo by Cpl Quinn Duncan

The Kelly’s : Sgt Sean Kelly, Drummer Rachel Kelly, Drummer Alanah Kelly, & Sgt Erin Kelly Photo Courtesy of Sherry-Lynn Kelly

A Coy represents the Unit in Oakville on Remem-brance Day Photo by WO Colter

MWO McKelvey with the Georgetown Rotary Club Photo Courtesy of Barry Timleck, Rotary Club

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BOOM: Sgt Erin Kelly preparing a Shaped Charge on the Basic Demo Course (the aftermath on the right) Photos Courtesy of Sgt Craig Hood, QOR

He Shoots…… Cpl Kyle Pulis attempts a goal for the Wild Boars Photo Courtesy of Drummer Alanah Kelly

MCpl Cronk takes the puck into enemy ice

MCpl Muir & CWO Murphy at the Puck Drop for the Brampton Battalion Photos by MCpl Banks

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HRH The Duke of Kent inspects B Company during his Visit in May 2010 CWO Murphy welcomes HRH The Duke of Kent to the Sgts & WO’s Mess HRH with Sgt Erin Kelly LCol Phelps, HRH & HCol McDermid WO Colbeck speaks with HRH Photos by WO Nault

Faces & Places

Faces & Places


LCol Phelps presents Sgt Greg Montieth the CD MCpl Sean Summerfield and MCpl Kwaku Wiafe at the TF 1-10 Departure Ceremony The Lorne Scots deploying with TF 1-10 pose for a photo outside the Brampton Armouries Photos by WO Nault

B Coy Marches in Brampton’s Santa Claus Parade Photo by MCpl Banks

Drum Major McGibbon marches the RRF Band in Bury Photo Courtesy of CWO Murphy

Visit the Lorne Scots Online :

Regimental Association

www.LORNESCOTS.ca

Lorne Scots Pipes & Drums

www.LORNESCOTSPIPESANDDRUMS.org

Lorne Scots Muesum

www.LORNESMUSEUM.ca

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Notes

Special Thanks

Special Thanks to Our Contributing Reporters Christina Commisso, The Independent

Stephanie Hounsell, The Milton Champion Chris Vernon, The Brampton Guardian


the 2010 primrose hackle

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