Archive for the 'k. Miscellaneous' Category

Grad Wishes from RMC Club of Canada

Posted by rmcclub on 12th May 2013

President`s Message to RMCC and RMC Saint-Jean Graduates

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Congratulations. You have successfully completed your respective stages of education and training, and it is now time to face a new set of challenges.

For those of you completing your education at RMC Saint-Jean, the challenge will be to continue your education in a markedly different environment, with its own culture, traditions, and physical setting. Integrating with your Second Year peers will present both opportunities and challenges, but I am sure the cohesiveness you have displayed while in Saint- Jean will be easily transferable to Kingston. Your demonstrated ability to work hard, play hard, and above all have fun doing it, will make you a valuable asset wherever you are assigned.

Pour les lauréats de Kingston, vous avez été préparés dans un milieu de choix au Canada. Les défis que vous avez rencontrés et surmontés, autant physiquement qu’intellectuellement, ont été nombreux et importants. Vos capacités ont grandi en conséquence et elles seront mises à l`épreuve plus tôt que plus tard. De se trouver parfois au bas de l’échelle n’est pas drôle, mais si vous montez cette échelle en vous servant de ce que vous avez appris au CMRC et si vous gardez votre sens de perspective et d`humour, le succès n’est pas garanti mais vos chances de réussite sont multipliées énormément.

Above all, if you have embraced three things as a result of your time at military college, the journey will have been well worth it, and they are:

Truth, Duty, Valour : Vérité, Devoir, Vaillance

9889 Bob Benn – President , RMC Club of Canada

_________________________

Well done to each member of the Class of ’13.

Exams are over, the character and achievements of the soon-to-be graduates are now a matter of record.

As we post this, Convocation and the Commissioning Parade are merely days away. Permit us to wish you individually much success and good fortune in the chosen career ahead of you. Expectations are that you all will enhance the good name of the Royal Military College of Canada wherever you go.

We are confident that you will always talk and behave at the level one would expect of a military college graduate.

As our good friend Herb Brav from South Camp in the Sinai constantly used to say: Safety, Team Work, and always set the example high!

TDV

Bill & Rolande Oliver

Editor e-Veritas

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Currie Hall Area Spruced Up

Posted by rmcclub on 5th May 2013

Decorative Paintings Leading to Currie Hall

Article by: 5256 Gwyn Griffith

Anyone who hasn’t visited the stairways and hallways leading to Currie Hall lately is in for a treat. When the Currie Building was initially designed following the Great War, decorative paint schemes were prepared for the areas leading to the Hall. Primarily due to a lack of funding, these were never partially implemented until recently.

The first phase involved painting the Canadian Coat of Arms on the back of the stairway immediately outside the entrance to the Hall, photo attached. The second phase involved painting the twenty shields that were cast into the walls and pillars during construction. The twenty shields include one for each of the ten provinces and three territories, the three military services and the four Canadian military colleges, the fourth one being the Royal Canadian Naval College. I have included photographs of the Canadian Coat of Arms and of three of the twenty shields that best display the incredible detail that the Conservator included in his paintings.

The third phase of the painting project included highlighting the architectural features around the inserts and doorways in the immediate are. I have included a photograph of the bust of 749 Gen Crerar, Commander of the Canadian Army during WWII, which best shows some of the highlighting. The Conservator who completed the paintings did a great deal of research on the history of Currie Hall and environs prior to submitting his proposal for approval.

Phase One was funded by the RMC Foundation. Phases Two and Three were funded by the Class of 61. We are grateful to both for their contributions and support.

For those interested continue here for history and background:

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New Brunswickers accomplished an incredible feat of foot to come to the aid of our friends in Upper Canada

Posted by rmcclub on 7th April 2013

Note from 19874 Brian Macdonald…

This Friday 12 April will be the 200th Anniversary of the arrival of NB’s 104th Regiment in Kingston, after an epic winter march of over 1100 km from Fredericton. A ceremony to commemorate this historic occasion will be held at 3 PM on the parade square at the Royal Military College of Canada where the replica 104th Regimental Colours will be returned to the Royal New Brunswick Regiment for safekeeping. A reception will follow in the officer cadets’ mess.

The route of NB’s 10th has been traced this winter by a number of organizations, including the re enactment weekends of the Saint John River Society, my personal 344 km march of the NB portion, events in Quebec City and Montreal led by the Volitgeurs de Quebec, the handover of colours by many Regiments along the route, and now this celebration led by the St. Lawrence War of 1812 Bicentennial Alliance. Also, Michael Berk will personally walk the final 220 km through Ontario.

Please join us at 3 PM on Friday 12 April on the parade square at RMCC for a brief commemoration of when so many New Brunswickers accomplished an incredible feat of foot to come to the aid of our friends in Upper Canada.

19874  Brian Macdonald

Marchers step back into history

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College Politics Professor Publishes “The Holy See and the Holodomor”

Posted by rmcclub on 17th March 2013

Dr. Lubomyr Luciuk, a professor in RMCC’s Department of Politics and Economics, recently published “The Holy See and the Holdomor: Documents from the Vatican Secret Archives on the Great Famine of 1932-1933 in Soviet Ukraine”. Here’s what reviewers had to say:

“…by December 1933 it was already too late for anyone, anywhere, to come to the aid of the many millions who perished during the Holodomor. A final document from the Vatican’s archives baldly reports on the relocation of Soviet Ukraine’s capital from Kharkov to Kiev, a move, it was reported, that Moscow could finally entertain because there was nothing left “to fear from the Ukrainian separatist movement after the starvation of the country.” Indeed there was not. The Ukrainian nation had bee more than decimated through an act of genocide, a crime against humanity the Church knew about but was powerless to prevent. All the Holy Father could do was offer up a prayer that the victims had partaken of the Bread of Life, their daily bread having been denied.”

- From the co-editors’ Foreword

“The analysis offered by the editors in their introduction to the documentation is a marvelous piece of scholarship which provides perspective on the possibilities for exercising its moral authority open to the Holy See through diplomacy.”

- His Excellency, Archbishop Thomas Gulickson, Apostolic Nuncio to Ukraine, Deo Volente Ex Animo, 8 June 2012

“Perhaps the Ukrainian public is not yet fully familiar with a unique book, The Holy See and the Holodomor [which includes] documents from the Vatican Secret Archives relating to the Great Famine of 1932-33 in Ukraine…published for the first time. These are unique documents that have only recently been released [including] information about how the Apostolic Capital learned about these terrible events, how Pope Pius XI was moved to tears when he heard about the millions of victims…The book [was] published in English, so for many Ukrainian readers it is not accessible. But I hope that we translate it into Ukrainian and thus make another step in the study of the history of the Holodomor.”

- His Beatitude Sviatoslav Shevchuk, Metropolitan of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church, 27 November 2012, Religious Information Service of Ukraine

“….a fascinating… snapshot of the Vatican as it attempted to respond to Stalin’s murderous artificial famine of 1932−33, known as ‘Holodomor’ in Ukrainian, which claimed the lives of millions primarily in Ukraine, but also in the North Caucasus, the Lower Volga region, and elsewhere in the Soviet Union. The book should be of interest not only to scholars of the Vatican and of Ukraine, but also to all historians of twentieth- century Europe, particularly those looking for a broader context in which to frame the actions of Eugenio Pacelli / Pius XII during the Holocaust.”

- Professor Rory Finnin, University of Cambridge, Journal of European Studies, Volume 42 (4), December 2012

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Fort Saint-Jean Chapter Steps Up!

Posted by rmcclub on 10th March 2013

PETITION WITH REGARD TO PARTI QUEBECOIS BILL 14

ISSUE: Québec law, in this case Bill 101, requires French-speaking Canadians living in the province of Québec to (with a few exceptions) send their children to French-speaking schools. One of those exceptions deals with the children of French-speaking military families. A clause in Bill 101 exempts them, recognizing that:

-with frequent postings to regions outside Québec where there are no French-speaking schools, French-speaking military parents sometimes have no choice but to send their children to English-speaking schools, and,

-alternating back and forth between English- and French-speaking schools is potentially disruptive for the student and not in the student’s best interest.

The present Parti Québécois Government wishes to modernize Bill 101 through Bill 14. Among other changes to Bill 101, the Government intends to rescind the exemption afforded to children of French-speaking military families. Ironically it is the René Lévesque government during the 1970s that instituted this exemption.

Military personnel, as well as many in civilian life wishing the Forces well, have decided to use the process offered by the Québec National Assembly to petition the Government, to convince (or politically compel) the Government to back off. Here is the link to the petition:

https://www.assnat.qc.ca/en/exprimez-votre-opinion/petition/Petition-3565/index.html

The Fort Saint-Jean Chapter has taken the lead to e-mail its members (and through them their spouse, their family, their friends, their neighbours, etc) to join the petition. Members of the RMC Club in other Branches may wish to add their voices.

 

Pétition :

Projet de loi n°14 et exemption aux enfants de militaires francophones

ENJEU: La loi 101 du Québec stipule que les parents francophones vivant au Québec doivent (sauf exception) envoyer leurs enfants à l’école francophone. Une de ces exceptions porte sur les enfants de familles militaires francophones. En effet, un article de la loi exempt ces derniers, en reconnaissance du fait que:

-Avec de fréquentes mutations hors Québec en des lieux n’offrant pas d’école francophone, plusieurs parents militaires francophones n’ont parfois pas le choix d’inscrire leurs enfants à l’école anglophone, et

-Constamment basculer entre l’école francophone et l’école anglophone peut avoir un effet perturbateur sur l’élève, et n’est pas dans son meilleur intérêt.

Le gouvernement du parti Québécois entend moderniser la Loi 101 par le biais de la Loi 14. Entre autres changements, la Loi 14 abrogerait l’article qui exempte les enfants de familles militaires francophones. Ironiquement, c’est le gouvernement de René Lévesque qui avait instauré cette exemption dans les années 1970.

Des militaires, accompagnés de civils qui soutiennent leur cause, ont choisi de se prévaloir du processus offert par l’Assemblée Nationale de faire pétition auprès du Gouvernement, en vue de convaincre (ou de politiquement contraindre) le Gouvernement de reculer sur cet aspect. Voici le lien vers la pétition:

https://www.assnat.qc.ca/fr/exprimez-votre-opinion/petition/Petition-3565/index.html

Le Chapitre du Fort Saint-Jean a pris les devants en rejoignant ses membres (et par extension leur conjoint-e, leur famille, leurs voisins, leurs amis, etc.) par publipostage afin de leur offrir de signer la pétition. Les membres des autres chapitres du Club des CMR pourraient considérer y ajouter leur voix.

 

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Exercice Souvenir 2013

Posted by rmcclub on 3rd March 2013

LE VOYAGE ANNUEL DU CMRC AUX CHAMPS DE BATAILLE CANADIENS EN FRANCE ET BELGIQUE

Écrit par 25610 Élof (III) Jean-Philippe Bélanger

Photos de Capt Moise Morrissette, Adjutant du Collège

Encore une fois cette année, quelques membres du personnel de soutien de notre institution et une trentaine d’élèves-officiers de 3e et 4e année ont pu eux-mêmes fouler le sol jadis remué par les grandes batailles menées par les soldats canadiens en Europe lors des deux guerres mondiales. J’ai moi-même eu le grand plaisir de prendre part à l’exercice.

Dès le retour du long congé des fêtes nous avons pris grand soin, à raison d’une rencontre par semaine, de bien se familiariser avec les lieux à visiter et les évènements dramatiques qui s’y sont produits. Le 16 février au soir, nous nous sommes ensuite tous envolés pour une semaine en France et en Belgique. Sur place, LCol (ret) Delaney, Maj (ret) Boire et Dr Hennessy ont su nous faire voir les éléments clefs des batailles d’Ypres, de la Somme, de la crête de Vimy, d’Amiens, de la Normandie et de la Crète de Verrières. Ils prirent chaque fois la peine de remettre les évènements dans leurs contextes et de bien nous faire saisir l’impact du terrain sur le déroulement des combats. Ils prirent également le temps de nous faire réfléchir sur les bonnes et mauvaises décisions de nos aïeuls, dans l’espoir que l’on puisse en tirer des leçons applicables à nos futures fonctions de meneurs dans les Forces Canadiennes. Nous avons eu la très grande chance d’avoir droit à un témoignage impromptu de deux habitants français ayant vécus le débarquement de Dieppe étant enfants. C’est cependant le Dr Laviolette qui allait réussir à marquer le groupe dans la plus grande mesure avec un exposé remarquable sur la contribution des pigeons voyageurs lors des deux grands conflits mondiaux…

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RMCC Prof. to Deliver 2014 Giroud Lecture in Berlin, Germany

Posted by rmcclub on 10th February 2013

Dr. Bathurst Selected to Deliver Prestigious Giroud Lecture on Geosynthetics

The International Geosynthetics Society  has announced its selection of Prof. Richard J. Bathurst, P.Eng., Ph.D., FEIC, FCAE, to deliver the 2014 Giroud Lecture—one of the Society’s highest distinctions. Since its first awarding in 1998, the Giroud Lecture has recognized exceptional achievement and influence in the field of geosynthetics and has been delivered every four years at the opening of the International Conferences on Geosynthetics, organized by the IGS.

Dr. Bathurst is only the fifth to be bestowed this honor and will present the lecture at the opening of the 10th International Conference on Geosynthetics (10 ICG), Berlin, Germany, 21–25 September 2014.

“Dr. Bathurst’s contributions to the advancement of geosynthetics have been superb, and in multiple segments of our discipline,” says Dr. Jorge Zornberg, President of the International Geosynthetics Society. “They include far-reaching technical contributions for fundamental understanding of geosynthetics, key practical contributions to the engineering community at large, and unmatched contributions to the IGS.”

Dr. Bathurst is Professor of Civil Engineering at the Royal Military College of Canada, where he has taught since 1980. He holds a cross-appointment with the Civil Engineering Department at Queen’s University and is an Adjunct Professor of Civil Engineering at the University of Waterloo and Edith Cowan University in Australia. Dr. Bathurst has authored or co-authored more than 300 papers in refereed journals, conference proceedings and research monographs. Current research activities are focused on the use of geosynthetics in civil engineering works and in particular the use of geosynthetics in earth retaining wall systems in seismic areas and limit states design.

The Giroud Lecture is named for Dr. J.P. Giroud, who coined the terms “geotextile” and “geomembrane” in 1977 and has authored roughly 400 publications. He has developed many of the design methods and originated many of the applications used in geosynthetic engineering, including many of those pertaining to landfills, liquid impoundments, and dams. Dr. Giroud holds the status of Honorary Member of the International Geosynthetics Society, has been named a “Hero” of the Geo- Institute of ASCE, has delivered major international geotechnical lectures such as the Mercer and Terzahgi Lectures, and has been recognized by the Order of the Legion d’Honneur in France. He remains very active in the field.

ABOUT THE INTERNATIONAL GEOSYNTHETICS SOCIETY The IGS is a learned society dedicated to the scientific and engineering development of geotextiles, geomembranes, related products and associated technologies. With 34 chapters, more than 2,800 individual members, and 143 corporate members, the Society’s work and members impact and influence all major sectors of civil engineering and construction. For more information on the International Geosynthetics Society and its educational and technical efforts, please contact the IGS Secretary, Elizabeth Peggs (Elizabeth@Geosynthetica.net)

Bio

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Professor Spotlight: Dr. David Wehlau

Posted by rmcclub on 14th October 2012

25366 Mike Shewfelt sat down this week with Dr. David Wehlau, Professor in RMCC’s Math & Computer Science Department. Dr. Wehlau is the winner of the 2012 Cowan Prize for Excellence in Research, and will be giving a lecture entitled “Quantum Cryptography: An Unbreakable Cipher” this Thursday, October 18, at 1900 hrs in Currie Hall.

e-Veritas: Why did you choose to teach at the College…?

Dr. David Wehlau: I was an Assistant Professor at the University of Toronto and looking for a permanent position. I visited RMCC and really liked the campus and liked Kingston. Since a good friend and collaborator of mine was a member of the Queen’s math department, RMCC seemed perfect.

e-Veritas: What have been the highlights of your time at the College, both the good and the bad…?

Dr. David Wehlau: Three highlights come to mind. First of all, I used to coach the RMCC badminton team and I always enjoyed that. It was great to interact with Cadets outside the classroom. Coaching the team to finishing 9th in the country in 1999 was exciting and a great deal of fun.

Winning the John Scott Cowan Prize for Research Excellence is a highlight of course.

Finally, I am also very proud of the fact that I won the Class of 1965 Teaching Excellence Award in 2002.

e-Veritas: What do you like about working with the Cadets…?

Dr. David Wehlau: One thing I particularly like about teaching Cadets is that everyone in the class knows everyone else. This makes Cadets much more willing than other students to speak out and ask questions.

In general, I find that the Cadets are very supportive of each other and that makes teaching easier too.

e-Veritas: How / Why you did you develop an interest in doing research in the field of Quantum Cryptology…?

Dr. David Wehlau: I fell into doing research in cryptography rather by accident. I got involved in it in 2000 when I was approached by a company from Calgary, Non-Elephant Encryption, which asked me to consult on improving their encryption system. Since then, graduate students see that I have written some papers on cryptography and approach me to supervise them. So I keep getting drawn back into studying it.

The majority of my research is in two other fields of mathematics: Invariant Theory and Discrete Mathematics. Invariant Theory is a branch of algebra concerned with studying symmetry and quantities that are preserved under symmetries. Most of my work on Discrete Mathematics concerns graph theory and so-called finite geometries.

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Wall of Honour Membership to Grow by Four

Posted by rmcclub on 23rd September 2012

Painting by 5723 Tony Tucker, available for sale in the Club Gift Shop at Panet House

Wall of Honour membership to grow by four

Four Ex cadets will be officially enshrined on the RMCC Wall of Honour bringing the total to 15. The official ceremony will take place, Saturday, 29 Sep – 1330 to 1430 – right at the  Wall of Honour. Family &  friends of the college are encouraged to attend. Ample seating for spectators will be available.

The four new distinguished members are:

1921 RCMP Commissioner George Brinton McClellan Jr, LL D (Hon);

2357 Brigadier-General William Denis Whitaker CM, DSO and Bar, ED, CD, DSc Mil (Hon);

2510 Brigadier-General Edward Alfred Charles “Ned” Amy DSO, OBE, MC, CD; and

4377 Lieutenant-General Richard (Rick) Joseph Evraire CMM, CD, BEng (Civil), BSc, MPA, DSc Mil (Hon).

In 2009, the Wall of Honour became part of the fabric of Royal Military College of Canada.

It provides a public, visible way of recognizing and promoting those ex-cadets who have achieved great things outside of battle – outstanding contributions at the national or international level that deserve recognition on the grounds of their alma mater.

When the Class of 1963 was planning the Wall, they wanted to ensure it would be positioned in a high cadet traffic area, which it is — on Verité Drive that runs behind the Commandant’s House on the route to and from the Sports Centre.

Over these past three years the popularity of the Wall of Honour has increased significantly. Not only are cadets, staff, family & friends  stopping to read the plaques; walk-on visitors to the college and tourists driving on the peninsula are often spotted in droves during the summer months taking photos and enjoying a short stop.

Names and year of Ex cadets previously enshrined on the Wall of Honour:

2009

13 Major-General A.B. Perry, CMG ADC

(1860 – 1956)

943 Air Marshall William Avery “Billy” Bishop VC, CB, DSO, & Bar, MC, DFC, ED

(1894 – 1956)

1681 Honourable Walter L. Gordon, PC, CC, CBE, FCA, LLD

(1906 – 1987)

1800 Honourable Hartland de Montaville Molson, OC, OBE, OQ, DCL, FCA

(1907 – 2002)

3528 General Paul David Manson, OC, CMM, CD

(1934 -

Source

2010

1032 Lieutenant-General Eedson Louis Millard “Tommy” Burns CC, DSO, OBE, MC, CD

1897 –1985

2399 REAR-ADMIRAL WILLIAM MOSS “BILL” LANDYMORE OBE, CD, MID

1916 – 2008

4860 General Alfred John Gardyne Drummond de Chastelain OC, CMM, CD, CH

(1937 -

Source

2011

2364 Air Commodore Leonard Joseph Birchall CM, OBE, DFC, O.Ont, CD

1915-2004

85 William J. Stewart

1863 – 1925

2791 Honorary Lieutenant-Colonel Jean P.W. Ostiguy OC, CD, LLD (Hon.)

1922 – 2012

Source

Continue for detailed bios, 2012 inductees:

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Launch of the DND and CF Code of Values and Ethics / Lancement du Code de valeurs et d’éthique du MDN et des FC

Posted by rmcclub on 6th August 2012

It is important that DND and the CF work to maintain and build the trust of Canadians in the integrity and accountability of our organization. This goal requires a commitment from every CF member and DND employee to apply the highest ethical standards in all decisions and actions, whether at home or abroad. Accordingly, we as Deputy Minister and Chief of the Defence Staff are proud to announce the launch of the new DND and CF Code of Values and Ethics.

The DND and CF Code of Values and Ethics contains general and specific guidance in applying the highest ethical standards in all decisions and actions. In the Code you will find the values, principles and expected behaviours that must be practiced in carrying out your duties and responsibilities. By describing the expected ethical behaviours of the Defence Team, it will further strengthen the ethical environment of the Defence workplace.

Defence Administrative Order and Directive (DAOD) 7023-0, Defence Ethics formally constitutes the DND and CF Code of Values and Ethics as an order for all CF members and a directive for all DND employees. However, CF members and DND employees have different relevant legal and human resources requirement that are related to the establishment of the new Code. For example, the DND and CF Code of Values and Ethics is part of DND employees’ terms and conditions of employment. For CF members, compliance with the DND and CF Code of Values and Ethics is deemed necessary for good order and discipline and, thus, subject to the Code of Service Discipline.

Together, with a common set of values and expected behaviours, we will maintain and enhance the pride and trust that Canadians have placed in our joint workforce. Given the scope and importance of the changes in Defence values and ethics, DND and CF personnel are to learn more about the DND and CF Code of Values and Ethics and the Defence Ethics Programme (DEP) by visiting the DEP website.

Robert Fonberg   – Deputy Minister      General Walt Natynczyk  -  Chief of the Defence Staff

____________________

Il est important que le MDN et les FC s’emploient à maintenir et à renforcer la confiance de la population canadienne dans l’intégrité et la responsabilisation de notre organisation. Cet objectif exige que chaque employé du MDN et chaque membre des FC s’engage à appliquer les normes d’éthique les plus rigoureuses dans toutes les décisions et actions, tant au pays qu’à l’étranger. Par conséquent, nous, en tant que sous-ministre et chef d’état-major de la Défense, sommes fiers d’annoncer le lancement du nouveau Code de valeurs et d’éthique du MDN et des FC.

Le Code de valeurs et d’éthique du MDN et des FC renferme des directives générales et spécifiques régissant l’application des normes d’éthique les plus rigoureuses à toutes les décisions et toutes les actions. Dans ce code, vous trouverez les valeurs, les principes et les comportements attendus qui doivent être mis en pratique dans l’exercice de vos fonctions. La description des comportements éthiques attendus de l’Équipe de la Défense renforcera davantage le climat éthique du milieu de travail de la Défense.

La Directive et ordonnance administrative de la Défense (DOAD) 7023‑0, Éthique de la Défense, constitue le Code de valeurs et d’éthique du MDN et des FC en une directive qui s’applique obligatoirement à tous les employés du MDN et une ordonnance pour tous les membres des FC. Toutefois, les membres des FC et les employés du MDN ont des dispositions légales et des directives en matière de ressources humaines qui diffèrent dans leur application à la lumière de ce nouveau Code. Par exemple, le Code de valeurs et d’éthique du MDN et des FC fait partie des conditions d’emploi des employés du MDN. Pour les membres des FC, la conformité au Code de valeurs et d’éthique du MDN et des FC est jugée nécessaire pour assurer l’ordre et la discipline et, par conséquent, est sujette au Code de discipline militaire.

Avec un ensemble commun de valeurs et de comportements attendus, nous préserverons et augmenterons la fierté et la confiance de la population canadienne à l’endroit de notre effectif conjoint. Compte tenu de l’ampleur et de l’importance des changements aux valeurs et à l’éthique de la Défense, les membres des FC et les employés du MDN doivent apprendre le Code de valeurs et d’éthique du MDN et des FC en consultant le site Web du Programme d’éthique de la Défense (PED) .

Robert Fonberg, sous‑ministre      Le Général Walt Natynczyk,   chef d’état‑major de la Défense

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E3161 Victoria Edwards & Jonathan Moore of Parks Canada’s Underwater Archaeology Service,

Posted by rmcclub on 2nd July 2012

The St Lawrence wreck site and surrounding area 1919 facing west along Kingston waterfront. The wreck is in the middle of the photo, to the east of the tower like limestone building with 3 small windows. This and adjacent buildings were part of the brewery and distillery owned by Robert Drummond and later George Morton. Courtesy Library & Archives Canada PA-030634.

 “I found photos in the RMC Archives showing cadets setting off gun cotton charges on floating rafts in Navy Bay, but I don’t know of wrecks being blown up there.”

E3161 Victoria Edwards interviewed Jonathan Moore of Parks Canada’s Underwater Archaeology Service, who is currently undertaking archaeological exploration and site inspection dives at sites in Navy Bay and Deadman Bay near the Royal Military College of Canada. He received a Bachelor’s degree in Classical Studies and Archaeology at Queen’s University in 1991. While at university he learned to dive and began his involvement in underwater archaeology. He went on to complete a Master’s degree in Maritime Studies at the University of St. Andrews. He has worked on over 50 underwater archaeology projects across Canada on a range of subjects and topics, from historic shipwrecks to submerged prehistoric landscapes and sites.

e-Veritas: You began researching the wrecks at Kingston prior to your full time employment as an underwater archaeologist for Underwater Archaeology Service, Parks Canada in 2001.

Jonathan Moore: Here’s how I got involved. I did my first dive in 1988 on what is now identified as HMS Princess Charlotte. At the time, it was frequently used for open water check out dives that take place at the end of SCUBA diving courses. I took my course during first year at Queen’s University over the winter of 1987-1988 so when the ice was out of the harbour, the check out dive took place for the class. Also, in 1987 I got involved with a local marine heritage preservation group called Preserve Our Wrecks (Kingston). At that time they were engaged in a survey of the 1812 wrecks directed by a diver and friend of mine named Eric Sharp. I joined the survey as a volunteer and did my first underwater archaeological dive on what is now identified as HMS Prince Regent in May 1988.

e-Veritas: After completing your Master’s Degree you continued your own studies of the wrecks for a book on 1812 shipwrecks.

Jonathan Moore: First, in 1994-1995 I organized a Photo Project to record local wrecks being covered by zebra mussels and included the 1812 wrecks in this photographic survey, and second, I began work on a chapter for a book on 1812 shipwrecks. This book, some 15 years in the works is: Dr. Kevin Crisman (Ed.), ‘Coffins of the Brave: The Nautical Archaeology of the Naval War of 1812 on the Lakes’, published by Texas A&M University Press, and available in 2013. My chapter is called “Frontier Frigates and a Three Decker: Wrecks of the Royal Navy’s Lake Ontario Squadron”.

e-Veritas: Your team got involved in active surveying and assistance with documenting sites in Navy Bay and Deadman Bay in 2002.

Jonathan Moore: Starting in about 2002 our team (Underwater Archaeology Service) got involved in active surveying and assistance with documenting sites in Navy Bay and Deadman Bay. This was related, in part, to the transfer of ownership of Fort Henry to Parks Canada from DND. I have been involved with and directed most of this work in Kingston. I have also helped three Master’s students with theses on sites in Deadman Bay and Navy Bay: Jonathan Lofthouse (launching slip in Navy Bay); Ben Ford (HMS Princess Charlotte); and Nadine Kopp (Navy Bay Wreck).

e-Veritas: Your ‘Archaeological and Historical Investigations of Three War of 1812 Wrecks at Kingston, Ontario: HMS St. Lawrence, HMS Kingston and HMS Burlington’, was dedicated to the memory of the late RMC Professor H16511 Dr. Richard Arthur Preston (1910-2006).

Jonathan Moore: When I was actively researching and surveying the wrecks in the mid- to late-1990s I spent a lot of time at the RMC Archives in the Massey Library, and received a lot of support from the staff. I went through the entire photo archive looking for late nineteenth or early twentieth century images of the wrecks (this took many days). Some of the most fascinating sources were the ex-Cadet photo albums. I also went through the Preston Papers, which is the archival collection of the late Professor Richard Preston, the first to systematically research the wrecks. This was fascinating. My paper “Another Look at the Fate of Kingston’s Warships” was timed to coincide with 50 years after the publication of Preston’s “The Fate of Kingston’s Warships”.

e-Veritas: Did anyone else from RMC provide assistance?

Jonathan Moore: Over the years many volunteers have helped with fieldwork. Since 2002 our team has worked with DND in the documentation and management of underwater sites in the two bays. We communicate regularly with the Base Environment Officer Mr. Andrew Wollin. We also work with the CFB Kingston Dolphin SCUBA Club which has volunteered with us on joint projects, such as the survey of “Guenter’s Wreck”. I know that Nadine Kopp also worked closely with volunteers that included Dolphin Club members. Over the years I have communicated very regularly with 8057 Ross McKenzie. He’s pointed me in the direction of some sources, including the file on the Underwater Exploration Craft, and has been very helpful.

e-Veritas: Any favourite wrecks in Navy Bay or Deadman Bay?

Jonathan Moore: I don’t really have a favourite. One thing I always point out to divers and other interested parties however is that the sites in Navy Bay and Deadman Bay are a fascinating assemblage of sites that encapsulate the early naval history of Kingston. There are wharves, launching slips, warships (big and small), scattered wreck timbers, boats and isolated artifacts. We can consider this a “cultural landscape” albeit submerged.

e-Veritas: I understand that early RMC cadets damaged the wrecks.

Jonathan Moore: My friend Rick Neilson, diver and historian, has gone through almost all of Kingston’s early newspapers to transcribe marine events and news. He has found several references to cadets having used the wrecks in Deadman Bay for demolition practice. I found photos in the RMC Archives showing cadets setting off gun cotton charges on floating rafts in Navy Bay, but I don’t know of wrecks being blown up there. I have photos of this. I also went through old copies of the RMC Review at Massey Library, and Ross also pointed me towards some articles.

e-Veritas: Any advice for RMC cadets and staff who are interested in diving?

Jonathan Moore: It is my understanding that divers need permission to access Navy Bay and Deadman Bay but I am uncertain of the actual requirements. You might want to check with the base. Divers should not disturb or remove anything in the bays, and as is now standard practice, exercise “low impact” diving. Care should be taken of boat traffic of course. Anyone new who is interested could contact the Dolphin SCUBA Club and/or Preserve Our Wrecks. Jonathan.Moore@pc.gc.ca

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Attack of Fort Oswego on Lake Ontario North America, May 6th 1814 drawn by Captn Steele published April 8th 1817 engraved by R Havell & Son. At far right the frigate Prince Regent (later renamed Kingston). The frigate Princess Charlotte (later renamed Burlington) is second from right. Courtesy Library & Archives Canada 2837413

Attack of Fort Oswego on Lake Ontario North America, May 6th 1814 drawn by James Hewett R.M. Published May 1, 1815 Engraved by R. Havell & Son. The Prince Regent (later renamed Kingson) is at the far left foreground. The Princess Charlotte (later renamed Burlington) is in the middle foregrond. Both ships are at anchor. Courtesy Library & Archives Canada 2837445.

Note from Ross McKenzie: The print of the Attack on Oswego, based on a drawing by Lt. James Hewett, Royal Marines, is of particular interest because James Hewett was the father of Col. E.O. Hewett -  first Commandant of RMC!

James Hewett was an officer in the R. Marine Battalion stationed at Pt. Frederick in the later part of the War.

 

 

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Victoria Edwards in Conversation: Mrs Kyung Ja Cho

Posted by rmcclub on 30th April 2012

E3161 Victoria Edwards interviewed Mrs Kyung Ja Cho, a foreign researcher hosted by the Royal Military College of Canada.

e-Veritas: Outline your academic and career background.

Mrs. Kyung Ja Cho: I attended Korea University in Seoul, where I studied the Korean language and Korean literature. After passing the Senior Entrance Examination for Administrative Service, I had the opportunity to choose the Ministry of National Defence to work in. In the Ministry, I have experienced all aspects of organizational management, human resources management, and budget settlement. I also have experience with international arms control and policy management.

With such organizational skills, I was called to serve as a founding member of the National Human Rights Commission of Korea in 2002. I contributed to the establishment of human rights policy in Korea, and also served as an investigator of human rights abuse by the government, and discrimination in the private sector.

Before coming to Canada, I served as the Director of the Military Pension Management Division. The Division is working on a revision of the ‘Military Pension Act’, which we hope will lower the budget and at the same time contribute to attracting competitive candidates to the military. I was also responsible for the investment and management of the Military Pension Fund to the size of approximately $420 million.

I have been hosted by RMC for two years, conducting research on Canadian military pensions and the Canadian Pension Plan in order to compare them to my country’s pensions and draw improved policies. The current Canadian pension plans are more suited to a developed nation, and I am looking for ideas suitable for my country, which is still developing. My personal goals are to become a link between military experts in Canada and Korea, contribute to the military diplomacy between the two countries, and improve my English skills.

e-Veritas: Please comment on your Canadian experience.

Mrs. Kyung Ja Cho: I was accompanied to Kingston by my husband, who worked for the ROK government, and our two children. Our son (13) and daughter (11) both attend St. Thomas More Catholic School, where they are both picking up English skills like sponges. We live in an apartment, and are enjoying our life in Canada. We have found that the weather in Kingston can be milder than in Seoul. Last summer, we visited the Canadian Rockies, Victoria on Vancouver Island, Montreal, and Toronto. The highlight, for the children, was seeing brown bears, caribous, deer, and moose. My favourite part was touring the Royal Ontario Museum, because I am interested in history. My husband enjoyed touring the Royal Military College museum. And also, I thank Dr. E.J. Errington, Dean of Arts, who gave me many Canadian history books when she retired.

e-Veritas: I understand that following the enactment of the Framework Act on Military Personnel Welfare in March 2008, the Military Personnel Basic Plan was formulated in April 2009. The MND in ROK is striving to establish a higher quality of military welfare system for service members in order to improve morale. (Source http://www.mnd.go.kr/mndEng_2009/DefensePolicy/Policy12/Policy12_5/index.jsp)

Mrs. Kyung Ja Cho: You are right. Actually, a happy soldier makes a strong army. I think it is very important to develop a policy that will prevent competitive military personnel from leaving the service, as well as methods to determine the appropriate level of military pension payment.

e-Veritas: In addition to Pension support, I understand that other elements of the military welfare system ensure decent living conditions for ex-servicemen. The other elements of the military welfare system in ROK include salary, housing, medical, career, enlisted support, family community support, education, programs for children youth, fitness, creation, leisure and cultural activity support. 221.5 billion KRW or .7% of the Defence budget is allocated to the service members welfare. (Source http://www.mnd.go.kr/mndEng_2009/DefensePolicy/Policy12/Policy12_5/index.jsp)

Mrs. Kyung Ja Cho: Absolutely correct. You’ve researched a lot. The budget of the MND for the year 2012 is about $29 billion. But it is difficult to accommodate ex-servicemen well with that budget, because we need to invest in programs for the improvement and maintenance of defence forces. I think we should improve the level of continuous care for ex-servicemen. So the MND has been making efforts to increase capabilities despite reduced numbers (681 military officers were dismissed in 2005, and 655 in 2009), and to convert to a practical, advanced defence management system.

e-veritas: I understand that Korea was a beneficiary of UN assistance during the Korean War. Since the dispatch of an engineering battalion to Somalia in 1993, Korea has participated in global peacekeeping operations with 1,420 troops dispatched to 17 regions in 14 countries, as of January 2011. (Source: http://www.mnd.go.kr/mndEng_2009/DefensePolicy/Policy12/Policy12_2/index.jsp)

Mrs. Kyung Ja Cho: Koreans are thankful for the UN assistance in overcoming the national crises of the Korean War. Korea is returning the favour to the international community by participating in PKO activities. I am very proud of the fact that today, Korea is no longer an ‘aided’ country, but rather an ‘aiding’ country.

e-Veritas: I have read that in Korea, military service is a constitutional duty; the Law on Conscription applies to all males, offering some 30,000 soldiers each year.

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Did you know that there were “Other” Military School Plans Before 1876?

Posted by rmcclub on 22nd April 2012

Did you know? Long before the Royal Military College was established in 1876, there were proposals for military colleges in Canada.

By: E3161 Victoria Edwards

Long before the Royal Military College was established in 1876, there were proposals for military colleges in Canada.

Although the Assembly of Lower Canada decided to establish a military college in 1815, agreement upon its organization was blocked by religious and racial conflicts.

Captain A.G. Douglas, a former adjutant at the British military college at Great Marlow, recommended the establishment in 1816 of a military college open to Catholic and Protestant boys at Three Rivers in a disused government house with himself as superintendent. His college was intended as a boarding school to educate the sons of officers, amongst others, in Latin, English, French, history, geography, drawing and mathematics.

In 1826, retired British navy and army officers who had settled in March township, near Ottawa, proposed a military college for boys on naval and military lines on the Great Lakes.

During the American Civil War, military schools staffed by British Regulars were established for adult male students to undergo a 3 month long military course in Toronto and Quebec in 1864, and at Montreal, Kingston, London and Hamilton in 1865. Although the military colleges in London and Hamilton had disbanded in 1865, the schools at Quebec, Montreal, Kingston and Toronto were retained at Confederation, in 1867. In 1868, schools of calvalry and artillery were formed in Toronto and a school of artillery was formed in Montreal.

At a pre-Confederation military school in Halifax, Nova Scotia, adult male students drilled and attended lectures on drill commands, military records, courts martial, the Articles of War, discipline and punishments, promotion of non commissioned officers, military accounts and pay and messing. After Confederation, military schools were opened in Halifax and Saint John.

In 1870-1, Canadian militia staff replaced the British regulars who were recalled from overseas station. From December to May, six schools conducted officer training for calvalry, infantry and artillery. The British Garrisons operated the schools at Halifax, Saint John and Quebec. Canadian militia staff and former British army drill sergeants operated the schools at Montreal, Kingston and Toronto.

The first full time units of the Canadian militia, A and B Batteries at Kingston and Quebec, organized gunnery schools on a year round basis in which artillery courses lasted from 3-12 months with the possibility of extension. Colonel P Robertson-Ross, adjutant general of the militia (1870-3) recomended the schools be organized as tactical brigades of three arms and that infantry and calvalry schools should also be put on a permanent basis . The Canadian government did not accept his advice.

Source: Richard Preston ‘Canada’s RMC: A History of the Royal Military College of Canada’ published by the RMC Club by U of Toronto Press.

Researched by E3161 Victoria Edwards

Ross McKenzie replies…

Unfortunately I don’t have any photos relating to the pre-RMC militia schools. I believe those later militia training organizations were known as “Schools” vice “Colleges”. I have occasionally received inquires asking for information about ancestors who supposedly went to RMC, but, in fact were graduates of the Militia School that operated here in Kingston.

These schools get a passing mention in Stanley’s “Canada’s Soldiers” and have been covered in other works on the Canadian militia -but, oft-hand, I can’t remember what these other sources are.

Ross McKenzie – RMC Museum Curator

 

More Did you know from Victoria Edwards…

Links between the Canadian Mapping and Charting Establishment and RMC

Frederick Borden, the minister of militia and defence, authorized the formation in 1903 of a small engineer-run mapping unit, whose job it was to help government agencies map all of Canada. The mapping unit employed graduate engineers from the Royal Military College (RMC), the only place in Canada where topographic mapping was being taught. The Mapping and Charting Establishment (MCE), a small, skilled engineering organization is as old as the army itself and predates the Canadian navy and air force. It has been located in Ottawa since 1903, where most of the work has been done, except for when units have been sent to war, dispatched on survey parties, or sent to support overseas operations. More about the storied tradition of military mappers in Canada can be found in: One Hundred Years of Canadian Military Mapping 1903-2003: An Illustrated History http://www.peo.on.ca/DIMENSIONS/julyaug2010/Feature%20Military%20Mappers.pdf

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Pleins Feux sur les Professeurs: Daniel Lagacé-Roy

Posted by rmcclub on 9th April 2012

“il affirme aussi fièrement ses origines acadiennes…”

Écrivez par 25813 Elof (III) Fanie Simard

Daniel Lagacé-Roy est Docteur en psychologie et enseignant pour le département de Psychologie militaire et de Leadership au CMRC. Ancien militaire, conférencier et charpentier à ses heures, il affirme aussi fièrement ses origines acadiennes.

Monsieur Lagacé-Roy est originaire du Nouveau-Brunswick et provient d’une famille nombreuse. Il a entrepris et complété ses études, d’abord à l’Université Laval, puis à Ottawa. Il ressort, de son parcours universitaire, titulaire d’un Baccalauréat et d’une Maîtrise. Son champ d’étude cerne la discipline de la psychologie.

Il est entré dans les Forces canadiennes en 1987, en tant qu’aumônier. Il sert pendant neuf ans dans la force régulière, après quoi il entre dans la réserve. Un peu plus tard, toutefois, il redirige sa carrière vers le professorat. Il enseigne donc, pour une durée de six ans, dans une école secondaire, à Toronto. Il retourne ensuite lui-même sur les bancs d’école, pour effectuer son Doctorat, à Montréal.

Suite à son séjour au Québec, il se dirige vers la province du Manitoba, où il se remet à l’enseignement, cette fois-ci à l’université. En 2003, il amorce son premier emploi à Kingston où il travaille pour l’Académie canadienne de la Défense, à l’Institut de Leadership des Forces canadiennes. Il se remet également au professorat, mais à temps partiel tout d’abord.

C’est en 2007 qu’on lui demande d’entrer comme professeur à temps plein au département de Psychologie militaire et de Leadership du CMRC. Il en fait partie depuis ce jour, tout en continuant sa collaboration avec le collège de la défense nationale à Toronto.

Parmi ses publications, on retrouve les tomes I et II de L’éthique dans les Forces canadiennes : des choix difficiles, ainsi que divers articles sur l’identité culturelle. Monsieur Lagacé-Roy participe de plus à diverses lectures et conférences portant sur des thèmes tels que l’éthique, entre autres.

En tant que professeur, monsieur Lagacé-Roy favorise une ambiance de classe facilitant l’apprentissage interactif. À la matière qui est présentée, s’ajoutent des discussions dynamiques entre les étudiants et l’enseignant. Ces discussions sont stimulées par monsieur Lagacé-Roy et elles visent à permettre aux étudiants de creuser davantage le sujet qui est abordé.

Il faut dire que la flexibilité fait partie des qualités notables de cet enseignant, qui est ouvert aux propositions ainsi qu’aux opinions des étudiants. Animé, humoristique et dynamique, monsieur Lagacé-Roy s’assure de captiver son audience lorsqu’il enseigne. Il entreprend même quelques fois ces discussions en provoquant des réactions chez ses étudiants.

Grâce à un foisonnement d’expériences de travail, monsieur Lagacé-Roy aide les étudiants à mieux interpréter et comprendre la matière présentée. Il s’assure d’aborder les problématiques discutées de façon à clarifier le contenu des leçons. Les groupes approchent ainsi les différentes notions sous un angle non seulement intéressant et pertinent, mais également d’une façon qui encourage leur propre réflexion critique sur le sujet.

Monsieur Lagacé-Roy est disponible pour ses étudiants, passionné par ce qu’il enseigne et par les polémiques qui sont quelques fois soulevées, et curieux de nature. De son enseignement, les étudiants ressentent cet enthousiasme et cette curiosité intellectuelle : ils en bénéficient.

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Victoria Edwards: Did You Know?

Posted by rmcclub on 9th April 2012

Did you know…

An in depth look at military Coats of Arms found around the RMC Campus.

 

E3161 Victoria Edwards (RMC 2003) was curious about a carving on the overpass between Fort Haldimand dormitory and Yeo Hall at the Royal Military College of Canada. Neither she nor 7637 Dr. Chester Brown M.D., were able to identify the subject of the carving other than it looked like a Military Badge or a Coat of Arms.

DavidS, a member of the British and Commonwealth Military Badge Forum provided an overlay (yellow) on the photo. To DavidS, the carving looked like ‘a sword held by a fist (probably mailed) over the centre shield which most likely has the Union Jack inset. Upper left and upper right look like two fusiliers badges, and the upper left could be 7th Regiment of Foot (Royal Fusiliers). Lower left has a scaling ladder, but the rest of the detail eludes me. Lower right is probably a musket.’

After seeing DavidS’ overlay, Victoria Edwards was able to identify the limestone carving as the RMC arms. After providing a photo of the limestone carving of the RMC arms on the memorial arch as a template, DavidS provided a revised overlay (white).

The Grant of Arms to the Royal Military College of Canada was a favour by H.M. King George V to the College. The college obtained a royal warrant to validate its coat of arms which had been used without authority since the time of the first Commandant, Colonel Hewett. A copy of the Royal Warrant assigned for the College by Royal Warrant in July 31, 1920 was extracted from the Records of the College of Arms, London.

At the top of the carving are three grenades inflamed, traditional symbols for fusiliers. The Union Badge is placed upon a small shield-shaped charge in the centre of a shield. To the right are two crossed swords. To the right is a crown and a scaling ladder.

The carving is not ensigned by the Royal Crown proper, encircled by two maple branches. The carving does not include the arm in armour em-bowed, gauntleted, holding a sprig of three maple leaves. It is not inscribed Royal Military College of Canada and finally, it does not include a scroll bearing the motto Truth Duty Valour.

 

Researched: E3161 Victoria Edwards

 

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