hhtp://www.army.gc.ca/4crpg

RangerRanger The

Fall 2010

Kitshop hhtp://www.joedrouin.com

FOURTH CANADIAN RANGER PATROL GROUP

Instruction * Training * Information

The Newsletter of the 4th Canadian Ranger Patrol Group

OUTDOOR SKILLS AND INDOOR CAMPING

LAC BROCHET

Manitoba Detachment

By Adult committee Member Suzanne Bender

As a newer member of the adult committee for the Lac

Brochet Junior Canadian Rangers, I enjoy all of the

opportunities that I have to join the JCR Patrol in their

weekly activities. I was especially looking forward to

another weekend of camping and fishing in early

September when Warrant

Officer Belisle came to

visit. Sadly, the rain,

cold temperatures and

strong winds made a boat

trip unsafe, but that

didn’t stop the Lac Bro-

chet JCR’s. We were

more than happy to move

the camping indoors!

On Saturday morning, 19

JCR’s and their Canadian

Ranger chaperones piled

into the school gym and

got to work. After a few

warm up activities, the group enjoyed a lunch of

rations. A unique economy quickly developed as the

contents of the rations packages were traded among the

JCR’s.

Once the group had their fill of boiled food, the physi-

cal labor began. It is rare to find a group of teenagers

who are willing to give up their weekends to take

inventory of Patrol equipment, but these youth did it

all, with smiles on their faces. Once everything was

accounted for, groups of youth began setting up the

tents. It was encouraging to see the older JCR’s show

their leadership skills as they worked with the newer

members to set up the shelters together.

In the afternoon, each JCR had the chance to practice

their shooting skills with the Daisy Air Rifles. The

youth showed great care when handling the rifles and

treated the exercise with seriousness and respect. One

participant even got five bulls-eyes with the drop-down

targets. I think he’s ready for the postal shoot!

One of the skills the group

worked on this weekend was

their cooking! We enjoyed

meals of spaghetti, pancakes,

and an evening snack of fresh

bannock. Ranger Adele

showed the youth how she

makes fried bannock, and it

was a big hit! Some got

creative with their bannock,

making different shapes and

their initials with their dough.

Although the group could not

learn the outdoor skills that

we had planned on, there were plenty of learning oppor-

tunities indoors too. They learned how to be flexible

when plans had to change at the last minute, how to plan

and prepare a nutritious meal, and the value of a little bit

of hard work. Most important in the skills that the youth

developed over the weekend are teamwork and leader-

ship. These skills will serve the JCR group, and the

wider community of Lac Brochet, in all of their

activities this year, and in the future. I look forward to

our next trip together. Hopefully the weather cooperates

next time!

Lac Brochet JCR patrol

2

4 CRPG JUNIOR RANGER’S

Manitoba Detachment

By WO Jeff Belisle

The Junior Ranger program was established in Mani-

toba in 2002, one year after the first Ranger patrols

were stood up. Currently there are six JCR and seven

Ranger patrols within Manitoba boundaries.

Churchill Manitoba is located at the estuary of the

Churchill River on the west side of Hudson’s Bay.

Churchill is Manitoba’s only sea port and is home to

one of the largest Polar bear and Beluga whale popula-

tions in the world. Travel to Churchill is by rail or air.

There are no roads linking the community to the south.

Europeans first arrived in the area in 1619 when Dan-

ish explorer Jens Munk and crew spent the winter

where Churchill now stands. Only 3 of 64 expedition

members survived the winter and journeyed back to

Denmark in the spring.

In the early 1700’s the Hudson Bay Company built the

first permanent settlement to capitalize on the North

American fur trade. In the 1740’s Fort Prince of Wales

was built and then later captured by the French in 1782

without a shot being fired. The Fort’s commander at

the time was Samuel Hearne. Fort Prince of Wales still

stands today and is a major tourist attraction. Fast for-

ward to the 1900’s, in 1929 a rail line was completed

from Winnipeg to Churchill to use Hudson Bay as a

northern sea-shipping route. In 1956 the Canadian-

American atmospheric research station opened the

Churchill rocket range. The last rocket was fired in

1984. Many of the military buildings are still in the

Churchill area.

Today Churchill is a main shipping port for prairie

grain. Hunting, trapping and fishing are still important

activities of the residents of Churchill. The main econ-

omy is Eco-tourism, Arctic research and the shipping

port. The Canadian Rangers have been in Churchill

since 1971 as part of 1CRPG. In 2002 the Patrol came

under command of 4CRPG. The Churchill Ranger Pa-

trol currently has 31 Rangers. The Ranger Patrol is

very active in supporting 38 Brigade on winter training

and the Hudson’s Bay Quest, which is a dog sled race

from Churchill and Arviat. The Churchill Junior Rang-

ers started in 2002 and currently has 18 JCR’s. The

JCR’s are very active with training on a weekly basis

and 3 - 4 weekend exercises every year.

Lac Brochet is located in Manitoba’s far north approxi-

mately 40 kilometres south of the 59th parallel and very

JCR’s practice putting up a wall tent

Lac Brochet shooting Daisy Air in gym

JNR RCR’s practice bannock making

3

close to the Saskatchewan border. This is one of the

few isolated communities in Manitoba still powered by

Manitoba hydro generators. The community is com-

prised of 600 members who are mostly Dene. Lac

Brochet can only be reached by air year around or 2 or

3 months during the winter by a bush road which origi-

nates 320 kilometres south near Lynn Lake Manitoba.

Many of the community residents still live off the land

hunting, fishing and trapping. Caribou is still the main

staple big game animal. The barren ground caribou

migrate from the tundra in the fall to their winter-

feeding areas to the south and are normally within a

skidoo ride of Lac Brochet.

The Ranger Patrol was stood up in 2001 and currently

has 39 members. The Junior Rangers started in 2002

and has 42 JCR’s. Both the Rangers and Junior Rang-

ers are very active with the Rangers giving strong sup-

port to the JCR program. The Junior Rangers train on a

weekly basis and participate in 4-5 weekend exercises

a year. The JCR’s from Lac Brochet sent a contingent

to Ottawa for the Junior Ranger 50th Celebrations.

They did an outstanding demonstration of Dene drum-

ming.

Lynn Lake is located in north western Manitoba ap-

proximately 1100 road kilometres from Winnipeg.

Lynn Lake came into existence in 1950 when one of

the world’s largest nickel deposits at the time was

discovered. Plans were set to move the houses and

buildings from Sheridan MB whose mines were almost

depleted through 165 miles of wilderness, swamp,

lakes and rock to a new mine site called Lynn Lake.

The buildings, equipment and supplies were loaded on

sleds or cat trains as they were called and pulled by

Linn tractors through the raw wilderness. The 75-hour

trip one-way could only be completed during the win-

ter freeze up. It took 3 years to move the town of

Sherridon to its new resting place of Lynn Lake. At its

peak in the 70’s Lynn Lake population was around

3500. Today the population is approximately 800.

Canadian rock musician Tom Cockrane was born in

Lynn Lake and lived there until he was 4. Lynn Johns-

ton, the creator of the comic strip “For Better or

Worse” also lived for a number of years in Lynn Lake.

The mines have all closed over the past years and Lynn

Lake is now known for its fantastic hunting, fishing,

and wilderness tourism instead of mining. Both the

Rangers and JCR’s have very active Patrols. The

Rangers started in 2001 and the Junior Rangers a year

later. Most recently some of Lynn Lake JCR’s

attended a Daisy Air rifle shoot in Goose Bay, Labra-

dor. The Ranger’s have 29 in their Patrol and the

Junior Rangers 22.

Snow Lake Manitoba is Manitoba’s most southerly

community approximately 700 kilometres north of

Winnipeg by road. This is another Manitoba commu-

nity whose origin came from mining. In 1925 gold

was found in the area and Snow Lake came to life in

1948 when Hudson Bay established itself in the area

and the first gold bar was produced by Nor-Acme gold.

Over the years there have been huge fluctuations in the

population of Snow Lake depending on which mines

were or were not operating. The population in 2006

was around 700. With the announcements of new ore

body’s and mines opening in 2010, Snow Lake is fast

becoming a booming mining town again.

The numerous fresh water lakes and pristine wilderness

makes Snow Lake a fishing and hunting hotspot. The

Ranger Patrol started in 2003 and currently has 18

members. The Junior Rangers started a year later and

currently has 15 youth. The JCR’s have participated in

many exercises both inside and outside of Manitoba.

In Oct 2010 some of the Junior Rangers and Rangers

participated in a survival exercise in Lynn Lake with

the Rangers and Junior Rangers there. Both Patrols are

very active within the community. The Snow Lake

Rangers recently were involved in a Search and Rescue

operation and located the lost person alive.

Shamattawa Manitoba is a Cree community with a

population of 1200. It is another northern community

that can only be reached by air or for a few months

during the winter, by road. Shamattawa is also one of

the few communities still powered by Manitoba Hydro

generators. When Hudson’s Bay York Factory opera-

tion was closed in 1950, Shamattawa was established

as a permanent settlement located on the banks of

God’s River. This isolated community still carries on

the age old traditions of moose and caribou hunting as

well as fishing.

THE LOUDER THEY CHANT, THE CLOSER

THE COMPANY

By Cpl Richard Whiteson ETS Conf Coord

These are the experiences of Corporal Richard White-

son at his first ETS in Cochrane, Alberta. As the first

flight arrives into Calgary airport, the tired faces of the

young travellers follow. All the Junior Canadian

Rangers pull their luggage behind them as if they

weighed many thousands of pounds (which were fairly

accurate for some of the young ladies). The expres-

sions on their faces told of the tired and hungry ordeal

4

BIO MS K.F. (KIM) CHAISSON

Supply Tech

4CRPG Jr. Detachment CQ

Kim Chaisson grew up in a small fishing community in

Nova Scotia called Digby. In 1990 as a reservist, Kim

joined the Canadian Forces Land Reserve Unit, 1st

Field Regiment located in CFB Halifax. She joined the

regular force in 1993 and began her career as a Naval

Electronic Sensor Operator. As a NES OP, she was

responsible for the operation of radar and radio detec-

tion devices, radar jamming systems and decoys, gun

and missile-firing equipment including the 57mm gun

and Vertical Launch Sea Sparrows. After eight years,

Kim changed trades to become a Canadian Forces

Supply Technician. She was posted to Base Logistics

Dockyard bldg 211, working in environmental clothing

and at 443 Squadron in Sidney, BC as Supply Clerk

supporting operations for the Sea King Helicopters.

She then continued her duties in the supply trade as a

GS STS – 04 Storesperson at CFB Esquimalt Supply

Depot. Eight years in this trade has provided Kim an

excellent understanding of the Canadian Forces supply

chain.

Over the course of her Military service, Kim served on

the West Coast at CFB Esquimalt on several Regular

Naval Force Units including HMCS ANNAPOLIS,

HMCS OTTAWA, and HMCS REGINA. While

serving as a NES OP, one of Kim’s more memorable

deployments included the Persian Gulf following the

first Gulf War. During that deployment, HMCS

OTTAWA was part of the Abraham Lincoln Battle

Group which was helping to enforce UN Sanctions

imposed on Iraq following their invasion of Kuwait in

August, 1990. As a Rations Clerk on the HMCS

REGINA, Kim also took part in RIMPAC. The Rim of

the Pacific Exercise is the world's largest international

maritime exercise hosted and administered by the

United States Navy. She also sailed on the REGINA

during Westploy, a Canadian naval deployment

designed to build strong bilateral and multilateral ties

between the Canadian Navy, the United States, and the

navies of Asia-Pacific countries.

Kim retired from the regular force in 2007 and

currently holds a rank of Master Seaman with the

4CRPG/Junior Rangers. She is serving a 3 year

contract with the Junior Rangers as a Storesperson.

Kim is a member of the CFB Esquimalt Base Triathlon

Club and enjoys competing in local races. Kim is most

proud of completing a Half Ironman in 2007 which

was preceded by seven months of hard training.

Learning to swim during that time proved to be one of

the most challenging and rewarding times in her life.

Kim’s partner of eight years has been very supportive

of her career. Her and Paul plan to be married in Sep-

tember of this year.

of the travel from their Patrol. At first introduction they

are very teenage like, quiet, shy and out of their comfort

zone, usually a “hello” or “how long is the bus ride” is

the most you can get out of the JCR’s while in the airport

and in transit to quarters.

Once all JCR’s meet each other from all the Patrols

across 4 CRPG, you can see them becoming more com-

fortable with the surroundings and the staff, you can tell

by the noise level…the louder it gets, the closer the com-

pany becomes.

On day three, in the distance you can start hearing tribal

chants coming from somewhere in the mountains, possi-

bly striking fear on un-expecting listeners. Those chants

were coming from our young JCR as they metamorpho-

sis. I, for one could tell of the camaraderie building

when you start to realise as you are crossing a river with

a mountain bike on your shoulder. All those young eyes

are all in unison hoping and waiting for any adult to fall,

which of course would bring great joy and jocularity.

Day four, the staff are very subdued by now. The JCR’s

are not. The command that is most common by this point

is “JCR’s keep it down!”, and “laughter is for the weak!”

The relationships are starting to be moulded; everyone is

pulling in the same direction. Older kids are helping the

younger, less experienced ones. Platoon Commanders

have all the JCR’s names down by memory, and a real

bond has grown between them. Platoon Commanders

have also found their voices, as most JCR’s would attest.

From now on every bus ride is loud with singing. The

cadence is heard through the mountain range. The

awards night was roaring success; every individual was

greeted with a rousing applause. Then the chanting be-

gan again, one side of the room against the other side,

some would say it was surround sound. I say the louder

the chant, the closer the company.

5

Welcome back to

another instalment

of "The Ranger".

Time certainly

flies when things

are busy, but as I

look out my win-

dow, fall has cer-

tainly arrived on

Vancouver Island;

the trees that bear

leaves are sporting

a myriad of col-

ours and the rain, which this part of the country is so

famous for, has arrived in spades. Sadly, the warmer

days of summer are just a memory and my golf clubs

are locked snugly up in my garage, as I pine for one

more round.

That being said, a lot has happened that I am excited to

tell you about since our last issue. The JCR’s ran a

very successful enhanced training camp in Cochrane,

Alberta targeting the senior JCR’s in August and we

had another successful year participating at the Cana-

dian Forces Small Arms Competition (CFSAC) in

Ottawa in early September. This year's shoot was

focussed more on operational shooting scenarios and,

from everything I heard, was greatly enjoyed by all the

Canadian Rangers (CR’s) who had a chance to attend.

4 CRPG is going to take the lessons we learned this

year and create a better work-up camp for our shooters

next year, in order that they can go to Ottawa better

prepared and can perform at their best. Please remem-

ber that my focus as the Commanding Officer is to try

to increase everyone's ability with their .303; thus, I

have instructed my staff to ensure that at least half of

the team for next year and the years to come should be

new shooters, or "tyros". I would like to give as many

people as possible a chance to go to Ottawa and

compete against the Canadian Rangers from other

CRPG’s, so I encourage every patrol to take the oppor-

tunity to go to the range as much as possible and

practice. Please don't wait until your CRI is in town,

but practice often, and you too might get a chance to

go.

At the end of September we ran another very success-

ful DP1 and DP2 (Basic and Leadership) training ses-

sion at Camp Albert Head in Victoria. Just shy of 60

Canadian Rangers attended and everyone went away

with new knowledge and new friendships, both of

which can increase your patrol's ability to train in and

around your own communities. In the future, I will be

inviting a few Canadian Rangers from each of the

other CRPG’s across Canada to attend these types of

training events on top of our regular numbers, as I

believe that it is important to share knowledge and ex-

periences with our counterparts from the rest of Canada

and that these relationships will aid us in the future as

we begin to train more across provincial borders.

During the last week of September, 4 CRPG hosted the

National Working Group (NWG) where staff from the

five different CRPG’s came together to discuss a myr-

iad of issues facing all of the CRPG’s and work on a

National level policy that will make our organization

function to the best of its ability. You will be happy to

know that the "new" Ranger rifle project is still on

schedule and they are looking at the first replacement

rifles to be issued as early as 2014. They are also

working on a updated version of the High Visibility

Vest and Canadian Ranger toque and are well on the

way of putting the Ranger "Red" uniform, (Red Gore

Tex Jacket) into production. We are hoping to see the

first of these within a year. There also have been a

number of new items added to the individual CR scale,

which will see each CR receive items, like thermal

underwear and cold weather gloves in the future to

name just two.

Presently, there is a complete review of the Scales of

Issue for the Canadian Rangers, which is a review of

the clothing and equipment that Canadian Rangers are

issued, as well as what each of the Patrols and CRPG’s

hold for equipment. I see this as a positive step as we

move forward to ensuring that the Canadian Rangers,

JCR’s and CRPG Headquarters have the right equip-

ment to carry out their assigned tasks in the future,

while still maintaining the motto that Canadian Rang-

ers are a "lightly, equipped and self-sufficient" force

within their patrol locations.

As most of you are aware, I have made the recruitment

of new CR’s and JCR’s a priority in each of the provin-

cial detachment locations this year. I want to acknowl-

edge the outstanding job each of the detachments have

done thus far, as our total numbers for Canadian Rang-

ers has grown to approximately 870 (up from about

700) and our JCR’s are currently sitting around 600

across the 4 western provinces. We have been author-

ized to continue to expand up too 1000 Canadian

Rangers over the next two years and will continue to

look at ways of doing that which make sense. Our

main effort will be to continue to offer each of your

patrols interesting and exciting training opportunities

that will, not only increase your ability to carry out all

of your assigned tasks, but also will be so interesting

that all your friends will want to join as well.

CO’s CORNER

By LT Byers

6

BASIC WILDERNESS SURVIVAL TURNS INTO

BASICALLY SURVIVING WINTER

Manitoba Detachment

By WO Rob Hillman

April 19, 2010 was a beautiful spring day in Snow

Lake, Manitoba. The early spring thaw had come and

gone, the ground had dried, and all indications were for

a beautiful summer ahead.

The Canadian Rangers in Snow Lake were preparing to

conduct a Basic Wilderness Survival Training session

for the good folks of 38 Brigades, Royal Winnipeg Ri-

fles and Cameron Highlanders.

Oddly enough,

the exercise

had been

named “Snow

Survivor”, a

combination of

the Patrol due

to conduct the

training, and

the training

session itself.

It was named

the summer

previous, and

at that time, little did anyone realize the significance of

the name!!

We had set out for the training area selected a few days

before the soldiers of 38 Brigade were due to arrive, to

ensure all was in place and ready to go. The trip out

was very nice until we hit the 20 KM gravel road that

leads into the training area. There we were overpow-

ered by the dust kicked up by 10 ATV’s, our pickup

truck and trailer. At long last we made it to the 4 Mile

Portage area of Reed Lake. It was here we would set up

our camp and prepare the training stands.

Once the stands were designated and located, the Cana-

dian Rangers were busy getting everything set up just

right. Of course there’s the unwritten code that every-

one has to have a better stand than the next guy, so a

friendly competition ensued.

We chose the option of having other Rangers from

various Patrols attend to assist in the training, so we

had brought Canadian Rangers in from Lynn Lake,

who had done the last BWST session, and a few Cana-

dian Rangers from Gillam, who will do a training ses-

sion in 2011. There definitely is a method to the mad-

ness!!

We mixed the Canadian Rangers from outside the com-

munity with other Canadian Rangers, ensuring they

would feel at home. Rangers Brady Pallson from the

Gillam Patrol was mixed with Phil Rodgers of Lynn

Lake to form the team conducting the shelters stand.

Doug Holmes, Patrol Commander for Lynn Lake was

combined with Kevin Iles of Snow Lake to demon-

strate signals, while Trevor Beardy of Gillam was com-

bined with Colleen Hornyak of Snow Lake, to exhibit

the fire starting display. Rangers Gord Cann and

Randy Huff both of Snow Lake rounded out the teams

with their food

and water

show. The

stage was now

set for the arri-

val of our

“guests”!

Friday morn-

ing came much

too quickly, as

I rolled out of

my sleeping

bag at 0430. I

had to make

my way into

town to herald the arrival of the troops, and ensure

their lift was there to bring them out. As I walked out

of the tent, I saw what I believed to be ashes from the

prior evening’s tale telling session amongst the Rang-

ers, but a second glance made me realize that it was not

ashes. It was snowing again by goodness. A slow lazy

snow, but snow nonetheless. That should enhance the

BWST Candidates and Ranger Staff

I would also like to make you aware that the "National

Canadian Ranger Kitshop" is up and running and you

can purchase directly from the Kitshop through their web

page at www.joedrouin.com. While there is not a huge

amount of inventory at present, I have already made sug-

gestions for them to add more field equipment like; kit

bags, backpacks, knives, boots, canteens, thermos etc...

They would also like to hear your suggestions on what

you would like to see them carrying. It is your kitshop

and you should endeavour to ensure that it carries the

types of things you see yourself and your fellow CR’s

buying and using.

Until next time: "Don't never take a chance you don't

have to. – Standing Orders, Rogers Rangers – Major

Robert Rogers 1759

7

experience for the troops I thought, and made my way

over to roust the Patrol Commander who would ac-

company me into town. It snowed all the way into

Snow Lake, and when the bus pulled in 15 minutes

early, there was already a good 2 inches on the ground.

The troops were all young, and very enthusiastic.

“Might as well make it a winter survival” they joked,

as they were loaded into the vehicle taking them to

their destination.

As we headed out to Reed Lake, I mentioned that it

would stop snowing soon, it wouldn’t snow all day…it

was too warm. Well, maybe not too warm for the

snow to accumulate…and that it did. As the troops

went through the various stands that they would come

to depend on for their comfort and survival, the snow

continued to pile up.

The shelters stand personnel made the soldiers aware

of the amount of wood they would consume while

keeping warm in their shelters. It’s something you

have to keep at all day in order to get through the

night. Any time you’re out foraging, you have to take

a good armload of wood back to the shelter.

The signals stand had to clear the snow from their

ground signals in order to make the display visible for

the soldiers. An open fire ban prohibited starting any

fires not in an approved fire pit (read Natural Re-

sources approved metal fire grate), so an actual demon-

stration was not to be had, however, the Rangers did

get their point across.

The fire starting presentation had their work cut out for

them, yet they triumphed over the wet snow. Small “fire

pits” were dug in the sand, and the Rangers showed each

group how to effectively use their magnesium fire start-

ers, coupled with birch bark and witches hair.

Food and water had originally considered taking the

troops down to the low ground, and under large shade

trees to find any small amount’s of snow. However, the

current snowfall alleviated that concern. They turned

their attentions to the small game that was around for

them to eat. Rangers Cann and Huff showed them how to

spear the fish that could be found in the lakes and creeks

as well as how to clean and prepare them. They also had

a few squirrels and even a couple of ruffed grouse to use

in their demonstration. I know that all of the soldiers

were excited at the prospect of catching their own game

while out surviving on the land.

Soon enough the practical demonstrations were over, it

was time to put their newly acquired skills to the test.

None too soon either, the snow was wet, and the troops

were getting cold. They were all paired up, and of course

it was not with the fellow standing beside them. Being

with their friends would make it too easy. In no time they

were all whisked away to their homes away from home,

and all set about to get their shelters set up, and firewood

gathered. The still falling snow kept the skies a dark

gray, which helped the illusion of nightfall coming soon,

so haste was the word of the moment.

The snow continued right until dark, and then it faded

into the darkness. Our flashlights made us aware that it

was indeed still snowing, and on subsequent trips to the

now erected shelters, our headlights indicated that there

was no slowing the snowfall!

Morning brought a slow light, and it had snowed lightly

all night. The final tally of snowfall over the last 24 hours

Ranger Cann with the catch of the day

Lt Gamble warming up

8

would amount to 10”, and as is the tendency during the

spring, it was mostly a wet snow. During the days that

followed the troops had to collect more wood to dry

out their boots and gloves and clothes, but no one froze

off any body parts. Lt Gamble, from the Royal Winni-

peg Rifles, made it his personal mission to catch a

squirrel, or at least a grouse while he was on this

course; however it was not to be.

While it was not a 30 below Manitoba winter survival,

it was a wet snow, very uncomfortable Manitoba win-

ter survival, and the troops did so in style. From lavish

lean-to shelters to the common fallen tree shelter, the

troops made the best of their situations, and to a man

there was not a complaint about the conditions.

Before too long, the Canadian Rangers were going in

to extract the troops, and brought them all back to trade

stories with their friends. There were many, from the

moose that walked through someone’s camp,

(unmolested I might add) to the wolves that stalked

other survivalists. Amazingly, those wolves must have

had wings, as they never left a track!!

All in all, it was a very good experience. The soldiers

of 38 Brigade would have another important training

session to tuck into their resumes, and the Canadian

Rangers were more than happy to share their expertise.

Bravo Zulu to the troops from both the Camerons and

the Rifles for their positive attitudes all through a very

wet and cold experience. I would be remiss if I didn’t

thank the Canadian Rangers, who proudly took the

time from their work schedule, many using their holi-

days, to ensure the very best training was offered to the

soldiers of 38 Brigade.

On completion of our set up, the OFC were happy to

show us where we were to set up for the display. On

our arrival to the location the decision was made by

the Patrol Commander from Gillian, Darren Walker,

to adventure down the Mantario Trail to find a suit-

able location for the display. After an hour of walk-

ing we decided to move closer to the parking lot.

Thank God because we may well still be out there.

Upon our return to base camp we were informed that

the plan had changed from Plan A to Plan B, and by

the final meeting at 20:00 hrs the plan changed to the

enhance plan B, which was of course due to bad

weather.

There were 10 teams participating in GSAR training

from various communities throughout Manitoba. Our

representation for the Canadian Rangers were from

Snow Lake, Ron Scott, and Colleen Hornyak, and

from Lynn Lake Doug Holmes. Added to them were

two RCMP officers. The events took off on Saturday

morning at 09:00 hrs 11 Sept 10, with a variety of

stands; Low angle rope recovery, Helicopter indoctri-

nation/training, First Aid, GPS with Maps and Com-

pass, and the Ranger stand.

EX. G.S.A.R, WHITE SHELL

Manitoba Detachment

By WO R.J.C Corbin, CRI

As training continued for the Manitoba Detachment, I

was dispatched to the WhiteShell Provincial Park area

of Eastern Manitoba with a crew from Gilliam, Lynn

Lake, and Snow Lake for the annual GSAR training;

little did I know this was the last time that the Office of

the Fire Commissioner was going to run this type of

activity, in this format. This was an extremely promis-

ing adventure, with minor hiccups along the way, as

we got to the training area and we established our base

camp.

Ranger Darren Walker briefing one of the GSAR

Hey look, the smoke signals really work

9

With all teams coming through our display the crew

from Gilliam were put to the test with Survival Psychol-

ogy hosted by Darren Walker, Fire building by Ranger

Tony Loewen, Shelters by Ranger Chris Giles, Smoke

Signals by Ranger Trevor Beardy, and finally Food and

Water by Ranger Chad Hayes. As this was my first ex-

perience with the Gilliam crew I must mention that the

heckling was outstanding, no one was safe, including

myself. This was also true for the teams coming to the

stand, it made everyone feel at ease and therefore all in-

structions conducted by the team were extremely suc-

cessful.

One thing is for sure the Gillian crew definitely came

prepared, the SME were in the right place for explana-

tion and demonstration of their particular stand. It was

such a success that the OFC representative had to visit

the venue to experience what all the teams were talking

about, all participants were extremely impressed with the

Canadian Rangers display, a job well done by the

Gilliam crew.

As I was told by our participating individuals they found

the training extremely rewarding, with of course the

chopper rides being the best thing that day.

As for the future I was informed by the OFC, they are

looking at doing a travelling road exercise for next year.

With this type of format the communities will be able to

put more boots on the ground for GSAR, and I believe

that the first one will be in Snow Lake in the spring of

2011.

Yes it’s hard to believe it took Ranger Hayes most of

the day to create

BIO Cpl SA YANG

00298, RMS Clerk

Manitoba Detachment

Life’s a gamble. We

change, strive, evolve

and base our choices

around risk and

chance. When I joined

the Canadian Forces in

the fall of 2006, it was

a chance I was willing

to take. I really had not known what to expect,

though my intuition told me it would be difficult; or

rather, challenging. Not knowing was exciting and

only solidified my resolve to push myself further.

My parents used to frequent air-travel and I was

born on August 24, 1987 in sunny San Jose, Califor-

nia; though my childhood was spent balancing study

and play in the tropical city of Manila. Coming

from a family of tradition, my Chinese father had

always set the bar high. A standard of excellence,

as he would put it. My mother, who had survived

the blistering heat of the Philippines, was quite the

opposite. One could say that I grew up with the best

of both worlds; rules and discipline on one hand,

amusement and an outright carefree outlook of life

in the other.

My sisters have always been academically talented.

I, being the middle child of the three, drifted to-

wards the arts with a runaway imagination for writ-

ing. With four years of military experience I can

say that I truly love my job and although it is the

administrative aspect of the Reserve, it is filled with

all the excitement of paperwork and organizational

nightmares.

As with every trade in the Canadian Forces, my

trade is as time consuming as it is draining; both

physically and mentally. Though more so with the

latter. From the Signallers of Toronto to the Cana-

dian Rangers here in Winnipeg I can promise enjoy-

ment for all three years of my contract; and though

it has only been six months, I have the benefit of

working with the Rangers. Life’s a gamble, and

gambling requires some form of risk, life would be

incredibly dull otherwise.

10

BIO CPL A HALPERT

00298, RMS Clerk

Manitoba Detachment

I was born in Bucharest,

Romania in August of

1985. Shortly after I was

born, my family moved

to Israel where I grew up.

In 1995, my family

packed up and moved to

our new home in Canada.

Unaware of the cold con-

ditions and the fact that

snow loses its appeal

when you see it for more

then one week at a time

on a family vacation, my

family settled in Winni-

peg Manitoba where we still reside today.

After visiting a booth at my school, I decided to take a

leap and try a job that was both new and exciting. I en-

rolled in the Army Reserves with 735 Communication

Regiment as a Resource Management Support Clerk on

20 May 2003 while still in high school. I completed ba-

sic training that summer and since no one else had joined

the Army that summer, I returned to school for my final

year in the fall as the only student who had shot rifles,

thrown grenades, and gotten tear gassed that summer (at

least I hope I was the only one).

I continued my career in the Canadian Forces while at-

tending full time courses at the University of Manitoba

for a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. My primary focus

was that of a full time student but I continued to parade

with the unit, completing taskings at the Communication

Reserve School in Shilo as well as my Qualification

Level 3 and 5 courses in Borden in the summer months.

I graduated with a Bachelor of Arts with Honours in the

spring of 2010 and began looking for full-time jobs.

That is when I learned of a full time contract with 4 Ca-

nadian Rangers Patrol Group. I applied for the position

and have been working with the Manitoba detachment

since the start of August.

I am grateful for the opportunity I’ve been given and de-

spite not having been here long, the working environ-

ment and atmosphere promises for a bright future. In my

spare time I enjoy spending time with my family which

includes a three year old niece that I can barely keep up

with despite my Army training. I also enjoy just about

anything related to computers, movies, videogames and

Cpl Halpert –

A trained quiller

poker (only when I’m winning). I am excited to con-

tinue my career in the Forces with the Canadian Rang-

ers and hopefully build on my experience with the vast

knowledge available from the Rangers we support.

BIO CPL MF COUTTS

00168, Supply Tech

Manitoba Detachment

Born on 14 July 1987, I was

raised in Winnipeg along with

two older sisters and a dog. I

grew up in south St. Vital and

spent my childhood attending

Samuel Burland elementary

school and Glenlawn Colle-

giate. At age 6 I began play-

ing hockey and still play in

recreational leagues today.

When I am not on the ice my-

self I am watching the Toronto

Maple Leafs play on TV.

In 2005, after I graduated from high school, I decided to

join the army. I had always had an interest in the mili-

tary but also wanted to go to University. By joining the

reserves I was able to do both. My unit was flexible and

understood that school was a priority while it also pro-

vided me with the means to pay tuition. In 2009 I

graduated from the University of Manitoba with a BA in

film studies, while I minored in history.

My first experience with the Canadian Rangers was on

Exercise Northern Bison in Churchill, February 2010.

At the time I worked with 38 Brigade. My positive ex-

perience in Churchill largely influenced me to apply for

my current position. I started working for the Canadian

Rangers in April of 2010 as a full-time storesman at the

4 CRPG Manitoba Detachment Headquarters. My stint

with the Rangers so far has brought me on a visit to

Lynn Lake and I look forward to seeing more of the pa-

trols in the future.

11

EX SKOOKUMCHUCK

FROM MY PERSPECTIVE

BC Detachment

By WO Hryhoryshen

Well, it’s done…almost, now just the paper work to

complete and time to get ready for the next one. It all

started about five months ago when the DCO (Capt

Meades) had (mercifully) taken over the reins of BC

Det.

So, one day the staff is sitting around our big table in

our weekly coord meeting and the DCO is talking

about ideas he has about some “BIG” exercises. Any-

way as he was pontificating and looking at a map of

the province he went on to say…I want these 9 Patrols

to be exercised in “this” area [the entire west side of

BC] and I said to myself…”don’t make eye contact

with him… look away” as this was going to be a diffi-

cult one to do in the short period of time that he allot-

ted. As soon as that thought had drifted through my

sub-consciousness I unmistakably heard my name be-

ing mentioned to organize and run the show, then a

collective sigh of relief from the other Instructors as

they felt they had just dodged a bullet.

With assistance from many and WO Patterson stepping

up to the plate to help me, especially when I went to

CFB Kingston for a few weeks on course (Thanks

Chris), Ex Skookumchuck came to be.

First question always asked “what’s with the name ?”

It comes from the Chinook jargon that was once com-

monplace on the Western seaboard of North America

and was used as a trade language. I have come across

many of these words and phrases in my time working

and living on the coast and thought it would be inter-

esting, Skookum means something that is big, cool or

neat and chuck means water, so it means big water.

I had lots of ideas that due to time could not material-

ize so it came to be this. Bring Rangers from Stewart,

Port Clements, Sandspit, Massett, Bella Coola, Port

Simpson, Kitkatla, Smithers and Kitimat into one loca-

tion and run a GSAR exercise encompassing as many

other skills as possible. I had those that were going to

participate arrive at the Terrace Rod & Gun club. Pt

Clements, Sandspit along with Bella Coola arrived by

a chartered fixed wing aircraft that I had developed

into the plan with the help of our Op’s cell

(operations); it is approximately a 3 hr flight. All other

Patrols drove in on the Friday.

While this was happening I had four Signallers

(Communication Specialists) under the guidance of

WO Peeters with two vehicles pulling trailers (a one

way drive of over 1000 km’s) bringing a Quick Reac-

tion Terminal (QRT). They set up and manned a Com-

mand Post (CP) with RGR’s helping out where ever

they could for the duration of the exercise.

The events for this multi phase exercise unfolded like

this; on Friday those participating Patrols arrived at the

Terrace R&G club. As this was happening, Ptl Comd

Frank Read (Vanderhoof Patrol) with his 35’ twin die-

sel boat was sailing from Prince Rupert along with Ptl

Comd Jarl Sundve (Mackenzie), who incidentally is a

highly qualified ocean going Captain, were making

their way to a Marina in Kitimat for the next phases in

the operation.

That evening detailed Orders were issued by myself to

Ptl Comd Echo Shrum and Ptl 2i/c James Kester who

had been selected to lead the two separate GSAR tasks.

As well, all the other Rangers were present to see how

an Orders Group (O gp) was conducted and they got to

understand the complexity of the planning that all the

staff have to do in order to conduct multifaceted train-

ing like this.

With Orders given and questions asked the Rangers

divided up into their new teams. It was time for the

commanders to launch fully into their Battle Procedure

(BP) with other Ranger staff there to help mentor and

issue the required equipment that would take them in

two vastly different environments. After that all there

was for me to do was watch it unfold.

At approx 0300 hrs Saturday morning the team that

was to go in by boat left the CP for the 60 km trip to

the boat where they loaded up and departed for Gil

Island. There they would find three victims waiting to

be rescued. From the marina it would be approx a 6

hour sail down the Douglas channel.

The rest of the Rangers were up and packed early that

morning as I had turned the skeet range into a landing

zone (LZ) for the four helicopters that would support

us for the moves to Gil Island and Mt Kologet. The

helicopters were in place by 0730 hrs and the next 1.5

hrs was spent doing a safety briefing by the head pilot

and then individual trg by RGR’s doing various other

skill sets. By 0930 hrs three of the four machines lifted

off for the 200 km flight to the Bivouac site on Mt Ko-

loget. Soon after they left the fourth helicopter de-

parted with the three victims to Gil Island with MCpl

Routlege from the BC Det in charge of that part of the

task.

12

Within a few hours the second load of Rangers landed

on Mt Kologet and then preceded to navigate their way

to the crash site and begin their task. Deployed with

this large group were MWO Fozzard, WO Patterson

and a dismounted Signaller who set up High Frequency

(HF) communications back to the CP at the Range.

The team that went out by boat, led by Ptl Comd

Shrum, arrived at Gil Island [Gil Island was the Island

that the BC Ferry struck and sunk a few years back]

They completed the landing and began their portion of

the GSAR only to find they had to deal with a casualty

that was unable to walk. This was complicated by the

extreme terrain that had to traverse. While this was

going on the Auxiliary Coast Guard Unit (#63) from

Kitimat arrived to participate on the exercise and did

the shore extractions of the casualties and searches

back to the boat. Unit 63 added a great sense of real-

ism to that part of the exercise and helped out greatly in

the success of the training.

What happened during the Gil Island and Mt Kologet

parts of the exercise have been written about by RGR’s

that were on those teams and you can read about there

adventures in the next few articles.

After the RGR’s had left the CP and camp it quickly

became a quite spot and boredom set in with RGR’s

and the CP… or so they started to think. I did have a

helicopter come back and those GD and Signallers that

had to watch everyone but them doing trg, got to do it

themselves. Out for a quick flight and my signallers

got to train and do a hover exit. Later on they were

qualified on the .303 rifle and got to shoot a number of

practices. The GD by this time got to take a very much

needed break and catch up on sleep as they had been

busy doing there duties and standing shifts in the CP.

By noon time Sunday I had most of the deployed

RGR’s back in camp. There were LOT’s of smiles and

tired people about, just as I had promised. I conducted

an extensive debrief with all of them that was filmed

by the local news channel, we heard from all those in

charge of various tasks and the pilots. By 1600 hrs all

those RGR’s that had flown into Terrace were on the

plane headed home. Terrace Rod & Gun Club was

tidied up, all stores accounted for and by supper RGR’s

were on the way home.

Some of the points that were brought up during the

debrief.

• Rangers felt they did not get enough info in

regards to the Exercise. A detailed Warning

Order (Wng O) had been set out with enough

EXERCISE SKOOKUMCHUCK

BC Detachment

By Tim Rice

The lead up to this Exercise was different that any other I

have participated in. Previous Exercises had been laid

out in great detail, where as this one, very little info was

presented in Warning orders. There were some clues but

left much to the imagination. I found it added an element

of realism to the Exercise. Trying to keep the backpack

under 50 pounds not knowing if I was going to a moun-

tain top, out in the bush or on the Ocean.

Upon arriving at Terrace’s Rod and Gun Club it was not

long before we were called in for Orders. This step was

also done differently. Instead of just leadership, we were

all called in to have a chance at experiencing full Orders

in great detail. It was soon apparent to me that I was

headed down the channel with Section one made up of

Rangers from Bella Coola, Terrace and Kitimat Patrols,

Commanded by Stewart Patrol Commander Echo Shrum.

It was going to be a long transit down to our destination

of Gill Island, so reveille was 02:00hrs in the morning.

We were up and on our way by 03:00 hours to MK Ma-

rina in Kitimat to Rendezvous with Vanderhoof Patrol

Commander Frank Read and McKenzie Patrol Com-

mander Yarl.

We took no time at all to load our gear since we had been

given the orders of only one bag max 50 pounds. So

details to be prepared for probable missions

and equipment. The lesson learned: come pre-

pared - the details were in the Wng O.

• Communication issues with HF and SAT

phones. Lesson learned: before you leave base

camp know your msn and timings so you can

still act and carry out your tasks. Make sure

you are familiar with the equipment you are

using … bring the cheat cards & codes with

you.

• Not everything is going to be scripted, be pre-

pared to use your initiative, act accordantly,

make a decision and be bold.

I would like to thank all those that participated in the

trg from the Rangers that went out, the GD who make

so much happen behind to scenes, the Signallers and

BC Det staff.

VIGILANS

13

quick in fact we had to wait 30 minutes for it to lighten

up enough for safe travel down the channel. With the

trip to Gill Island estimated at around 6 hours we had

plenty of time to go over Orders and map in great de-

tail. Also time to enjoy views of a myriad of Ocean

life swimming by, from porpoises to whales. The

Scenery of the Douglas Channel is a real eye opener.

Cliffs, waterfalls, Estuaries and pristine forests that

were hard too look away from. The weather was great,

calm seas and no wind meant for a very comfortable

trip.

After arriving at Gill Island at 11:30hrs we embarked

aboard a small motorized Fiberglas boat. We were

tasked to perform a type two search for 3 individuals

that had parachuted from a stricken air craft. Ptrl Cmdr

Shrum had prepared the order of March, Terrace Sec

Cmdr Bentham as main Navigator with map, Compass

and GPS; backup navigation was Terrace Ranger

Turner with compass and GPS who was to keep track

of distance travelled into bush. Myself, Kitimat

Ranger Rice, given task of communications with Boat

and HQ, Rangers Keating and Ivanakis to flag outside

Boundary as we moved along grid line and remaining

Bella Coola Rangers Hansun and Loosemoore to form

in on the search line.

After studying the map in great detail on the way down

we were confident the terrain would not have much

elevation change. What you cannot determine on the

map and what becomes apparent very quickly is the

condition of the land we would be searching. The bush

was extremely thick so searchers five feet away at

times would be difficult to see. What has to be main-

tained is view of all terrain between searchers so that

no ground is left uncovered in search. I have practiced

this form of Search with Rangers before as most

Ranger’s have and with thick bush, it never gets easier.

Trying to maintain an even line moving through bush

is almost impossible. Ptrl Cmdr Shrum had to work

very hard keeping everyone together moving along the

grid line that was determined to be area of lost airmen.

After spending an hour searching, we were notified the

Kitimat Coast guard was now attending the search area

and was to begin a shore line search. After another

hour of extremely difficult searching, fighting terrain

every step of the way, we were notified that the Coast

Guard had found the three airmen. The three Airmen

were played by Mcpl Routlege and two Rangers that

had been Helicoptered in ahead of us.

We quickly formed up and moved back to the beach

and rendezvoused with the Coast Guard and the three

individuals playing the part of Lost Airman. Talking to

these individuals it was clear they had a tough go with

Terrain also, having to move through the same bush we

did but with their full pack on. Now that was a chal-

lenge I was glad to have dodged.

We wrapped up the search Ex by moving Kitimat

Ranger Derek, who was playing the role of uncon-

scious victim, onto a stretcher. The Coast guard then

moved Derek onto their Fast response vessel and deliv-

ered him to our vessel. The Coast Guard boat is proba-

bly the fasted moving boat in the North. Twin 200hp

outboards had their vessel moving at an impressive

pace. I am confident their response time is minutes

not hours in our area.

After the Ex we could only make it back as far as

Loretta Island about 2 hours out of Kitimat, where we

again moved ashore and set up a bivouac around a trap-

pers cabin. It was a great opportunity to get to know

the Newest RI MCpl Routledge, he had many stories of

his experience with the Forces. We look forward to

getting a chance to work with him again. The follow-

ing day was another very early start, reveille at 5am so

that we are loaded and moving at first light. We ar-

rived back to a warm welcome from the Ranger’s on

GD who transported us back to HQ at Terrace Rod and

Gun club. We got back in time to see the arrival of

Rangers who were tasked to the top of Mount Koleget.

Always impressive to see 3 helicopters coming in for-

mation.

We were brought in for a very detailed debrief. Again

always something learned at these debriefs, the good,

the bad and everything in between. I look at Skookum-

chuk as a excellent multi Patrol Ex that went off ex-

tremely well. There is so much work involved in these

Exercise’s that we never see but get to enjoy the bene-

fits of. It’s hats off and a great thank you to Warrant

Officer Dan Hryhoryshen, all other RI’s and Rangers

involved as GD in Operation Skookumchuk.

14

newly acquired team of Rangers.

After the orders were delivered we met with our exer-

cise leaders James Kester and Jason Vines for a quick

brief and review of the orders we had just listened to.

My first impression of the leadership abilities of these

two Rangers was good – fully aware of what our mis-

sion was and where it was, they both wanted to take

account of any kit short comings – very smart because

in that mountainous terrain a kit short coming could

easily turn that GSAR mission into a real casualty

evacuation. Very quickly Kester and Vines had gained

trust among this anxious but very willing bunch of

Rangers.

Our section files off into the tree line to our respective

shelters for the night as Kestor and Vines scramble to

re-write orders and correct any kit shortcomings… my

last thought as I drift off – I hope they get some sleep

tonight.

The morning flies by as we take down our shelters,

scarf down IMP’s and meet for orders. The orders are

cut short as the helicopters begin to arrive and the need

for the safety briefing takes priority.

My thoughts on the orders being cut short as we were

allowed to sit in on the reading of the orders the previ-

ous night, I felt we were ‘good to go’ in terms of info

we needed to safely get the mission completed. How-

ever the learning part of this was in gaining an aware-

ness that the learning curve for Rangers was steepest

when it came to writing and delivering a set of formal

orders in a military format. A necessary thing to learn

but at the end of the day the Commanding Rangers had

the confidence and local knowledge to push forward

using their staff and resources to get the mission com-

pleted despite not finishing the reading of the orders.

The safety brief was just that - brief. The next thing I

know we are in the helicopter and the Rangers below

are tiny red specs… the point of no return.

My gaze goes from straight down to straight ahead and

WOW! What amazing scenery, more than once did I

catch myself being a tourist/artist snapping photos and

firing questions like “What’s the name of that moun-

tain, can you see bears from up here, look at the color

of that river”… blah blah blah, over the radio to the

pilot. When I pulled myself together I balanced the

hour long flight time with sightseeing and entering the

Grid references we were given as waypoints on my

GPS.

As the first helicopter chock to arrive at the drop off

EXERCISE SKOOKUMCHUCK

BC Detachment

By Maryanne Wettlaufer

Exercise Skookumchuck – or for those of you who felt

like I did leaving home with less than 50lbs of kit for 3

days of mountain or coast unknown… call it exercise

‘Edge of Your Seat’!

When I received the warning orders for this exercise and

passed it on to my Patrol, I was a bit disappointed in the

response. Yes, I had the ‘normal’ work and family com-

mitment reasons cited for not being able to sign up – but

I also had Rangers turn it down because they felt they did

not have enough information to make a ‘comfortable’

decision to go.

The other side of that is maybe I just have a crazy blind-

ing thirst for adventure… a sense that there really is

nothing I wouldn’t want to try at least once. Good or

bad, I have gained the confidence that with each adven-

ture I add to my base of skills and knowledge and I will

take that into the next and the next.

Friday morning finally arrives; I have packed and re-

packed trying to get the most useful/versatile/weight ratio

I can carry in my kit. I follow the pilot out to the charter

plane as all the locals stare curiously at the fully clad

Ranger humping her kit out to the awaiting air limo ser-

vice.

The flight takes us down the coast over Bella Bella and

eventually into Bella Coola. PC Peter Grundman, a pilot

himself, points out the interesting approach due to the

low cloud cover which was later confirmed by the pilot.

For me, an artist, I thought we were getting a scenic tour

of the coastal area and I already felt like the trip had been

awesome, so really, we could return home… silly me.

All kidding aside, the Ranger in me was getting even

more excited about the exercise and the unknown adven-

ture of the next 36 hours. We arrived at the Terrace Rod

and Gun Club, the local Patrol members are busy getting

HQ set up for the exercise. The air is filled with tension

and anticipation that is coming from the Rangers and the

RI’s. We get our tents set up and filter back to the build-

ing anxiously wanting to get things started.

As the orders are delivered pens and pencils scratch fe-

verishly to jot down as much important detail as possible.

I watch the color drain from young James Kestor’s face

as he acknowledges his appointment as section com-

mander for the B36 Bomb site GSAR mission high atop

Mount Kologet. I catch his gaze as he glances around

the room; my sense was he is taking visual account of his

15

point we rallied with our kit and pulled out our maps

and GPS units to get oriented. We wanted to get a

sense of the task ahead as it related to the geography

we had just landed in. As we compared ‘notes’ Ptl

Commander Peter Grundman from Sandspit graciously

offered some key tips about GPS operation to Section

Commander Kester. It was a pleasure to watch as the

light went on for Kester during this exchange of skills

from a very experienced leader to a receptive younger

leader.

As we waited for the next helicopter chock to arrive I

teamed up with Kester to check out the grid reference

given in the orders for the proposed Biv. Site. Within

minutes Kester made a very confident informed deci-

sion to change the location of the Biv. Site based on

that short little recce. A great example of the dynamic

nature of this exercise, the orders were a guideline and

not etched in stone, or we would have been camped on

a very exposed rocky area.

The GSAR went very well with Kestor and Vines com-

municating clearly the intent of the mission and how it

was to be executed. Starting with a very formal Type 2

search we swept our way up the bowl toward the wreck

site. As we approached the crash site we were allowed

to branch off and do a bit of individual ‘treasure hunt-

ing’ using only camera and GPS waypoints to docu-

ment our findings.

While in the field within all stages of the exercise we

were reminded of personal safety regarding local wild-

life (lots of grizzly scat) and local terrain. We con-

formed to the buddy system and luckily had no serious

incidents. The largest of the local wildlife we experi-

enced was a curious porcupine.

After the GSAR was complete and we all had a chance

to sift through some wreckage we headed back down

to base camp where we rested and had a round of

IMP’s. Moral was great as everyone had a chance to

share bits about their findings in the wreckage.

As dusk approached about six Rangers including my-

self under the leadership of Kester headed out to do a

short recce of the area that was to be our alternate pick

up if we were to be weathered in overnight. The eve-

ning sunshine was spectacular as its warm long rays

cut through the cool evening casting light on the sur-

rounding mountains and valleys below. Once again I

drifted off into artist bliss surrounded by stunning

scenery and a dessert buffet of wild blueberries. Only

to be brought back to Ranger reality by the scene un-

folding just to my left. Ranger Kester had the maps out

along with his GPS and he was with great enthusiasm

sharing with Ranger Jason Gunderson the lesson that

Ptl Commander Peter Grundman had shared earlier

that day. They were acquiring a solid visual reference

of our proposed evacuation route if we happened to get

weathered in overnight. My thoughts on this – well

done Ranger who knows the wrath of Mother Nature…

plan ahead and this is exactly what he was doing.

Lucky for us the sky stayed clear with only a few

wispy clouds through the night and into the morning.

The moon had been so bright it lit up the entire valley

and the Night Picket barely needed flashlights. The

morning arrived crisp and cold and the thumping

blades of the approaching helicopters signaled the near

end of an exceptional exercise.

The helicopter ride back to HQ in Terrace was a

chance to savor the highlights of the Exercise… my

mind drifted as we flew into glacier bowls, past snow

capped mountain tops, over lava flows, it was hard to

imagine that this only started 36 hours ago – well for

us Rangers anyway… I do have a sense that for the RI

in charge of this Exercise it may have started a few

months earlier.

One of the most refreshing components of this exercise

was how the RI’s seemed to make a conscious effort to

let the Commanding Rangers drive the mission them-

selves. The instruction from the RI’s came as con-

structive ‘after the fact’ commentary, which helped us

all ponder what we did effectively and how we might

do better next time.

I hope that in returning to my patrol after this exercise

I will be able to convey through photos and dialogue

some of the lessons from this exercise. The biggest

one – don’t back away from a challenge because you

don’t know all the details. Get yourself ‘to the edge’

and get ready to push off. Be ready to accept challenge

because the very reason we train as Rangers is to help

us find a comfort level as we face unknown circum-

stance in real life.

BIO WO GORDON A CUTTING, CD, GCS Ranger Instructor

BC Detachment

I was born on 22 Oct 1972 and primarily raised in

Nanaimo, BC. I believe I grew up in a large family,

having one brother, one half sister, one half brother,

one stepsister, and one stepbrother. Moving around the

Nanaimo area I lived in rural, urban and inner-city

16

environments. I at-

tended public schools

including Woodbank

Elementary, North

Cedar Elementary,

Pemberton Secon-

dary, Barsby Secon-

dary, Five Acers

Secondary and

Nanaimo District

Secondary. My post

secondary education

consisted of classes

from Vancouver Island University and a fixed wing

pilot licence from Juan Air Commercial Aviation

School. My wife Debra and I have been together for

20 plus years now and we currently live in the Victoria

area.

I joined the reserves and specifically the infantry be-

cause I enjoyed being in cadets and the exposure that I

had from reserve members at the time was positive for

me. In my home town there were only two options and

I felt that if I wanted to do something different the in-

fantry would provide me with that opportunity.

I have been a member of The Canadian Scottish Regi-

ment(C Scot R) since joining their cadet corps in 1987

and have been tasked to work in many different units/

organizations over the years, these include; LDSH

(RC) as a Platoon 2IC on OP Podium, 39 CBG Brigade

Training Cadre as an instructor for all Vancouver Is-

land run courses as well as Op Peregrine, 3 PPCLI C

Coy (2RCR BG) TFA as a section commander, (ITAC

VI)Individual Training Assistance Coordinator for

Vancouver Island units, 1 PPCLI as a section com-

mander for Op Grizzly, CFRC as regional recruiter,

Western Area Training Centre as instructional staff,

CFOCS Chilliwack, MTD Nanaimo as support staff

and many more. I have been tasked to conduct collec-

tive training with the Canadian Naval Reserves, Engi-

neers, Armoured Squadron, Artillery battery, Commu-

nication Squadron, US Coast Guard, Air National

Guard and US Marine (FAST) Fleet Anti-Terrorism

and Security Team. I have taught on almost every

course that I am qualified. Some of which include:

Basic Trade Training (BTT) infantry, LFC Driver

wheeled course, Armoured Vehicle General Purpose

(AVGP) Driver course, Machine Gun Course, Infantry

Section Commander Course (ISCC), Basic Winter

Warfare course, Small Arms Trainer (SAT) Operator,

Basic Small arms Course (BSAC), Advanced Small

Arms Instructors Course (ASAIC), Post Traumatic In-

BIO MCPL ROUTLEDGE K.J

2IC Storesman

BC Detachment

My name is, Kirk

Jerrold Routledge.

I was born in Ed-

monton Alberta, 15

December 1969. I

was raised in a fam-

ily of four, consisting

of my parents, my

brother and my self,

I’m the oldest. My

younger Brother is

currently 35 years

old. I was raised in Sherwood Park an urban area, on the

out skirts, of Edmonton. Then I moved to a rural area of

the Okanagan out-side of Kelowna British Columbia.

The education that I received was public schooling. I

spent my first three years at Sherwood Park Elementary

School. The remainder of my school was completed in

Kelowna BC at Dorothy Walker Elementary; Okanagan

Mission Secondary; and my final year was at Northern

Institution Technology in Alberta, completing my sheet

metal course.

I received honours and trophies in hockey, rugby and

soccer. I have honours and trophies from 1979 to pre-

sent I’m still receiving honours trophies from various

aspects of my life.

In my civilian career I used to work for Caron Ashley in

Kelowna BC where I worked as a shipper and receiver

for an approximately six years. I am a sheet metal

worker by trade which I worked at for eleven years. My

job description included drawing the layouts and the

cident Peer Debriefing course, National Recruiting

course, SHARP, CHAP, Senior Leaders Course (SLC),

Infantry Platoon 2IC course, Light Urban Search and

Rescue course and Basic Mountain Operation’s.

My present military and civilian activities include snow-

boarding, scuba diving, mountain biking and unending

home renovations. The latter takes up most of my time

leaving little else as of late.

As for present and future aspirations, I wish to learn from

the Rangers about their communities and the challenges

that they face and in the future assist Ranger Patrols in

becoming the biggest and the best they can be, while

having fun doing it.

17

building projects with the use of a mig welder. My

main personal activities are being an assistant soccer

coach for my son’s soccer team.

The reason why I joined the Primary Reserves and

Regular Force was to get some guidance and discipline

in my life. The main circumstance leading to me join-

ing the Canadian Forces is that I am following the foot

steps of my family military history. It’s a family his-

tory that goes back to the Boer War. The first regiment

I served with was the British Columbian Dragoons. In

the Regiment I was tasked with armoured Troop Bsqn.

I was the Troop commander driver and took care of

communications; I was also recruiting NCO for the

Regiment.

The next Regiment I served with was 3 P.P.C.L.I., my

position was a rifleman in B Company and the OC

driver in an Itils and Grizzly AVGP. I was transferred

to recce platoon. The task to complete was to get in-

formation for battalion HQ, set up the beach heads and

the landing zone for helicopters. During this time I

also took advance winter warfare up north with the Ca-

nadian Rangers. Following my time with 3 P.P.C.I. I

transferred to the British Columbian Dragoons again.

From there I transferred to the Southern Alberta Light

Horse Regiment, Bsqn, where I became the Troop

leader driver. Then I transferred to 41 BG Battle

School in Edmonton. The driver training I have is;

MLVW, G-Wagon, Milcot, Coyote AVGP and Panel

Van. I have also completed my PLQ mods.

My personal activities are fly fishing, tying fly’s,

camping, golf, hockey, hunting, and cooking. I have a

13 year old son and am divorced. My future for the

military is going as far as it will take me. For life, take

it one day at a time and see what challenge will be in

front of.

MISSING BOATERS LOCATED ON NORTHERN

ISLAND - WOLLASTON

AB/SK Detachment

By CBC News

There was a happy end-

ing to a search for three

missing boaters in north-

ern Saskatchewan on

Friday.

On Tuesday, a 60-year-

old man took his two

grandsons, 12 and 13, out

on Wollaston Lake to

GRANDE CACHE DEATH RACE

AB/SK Detachment

By Rgr Selena

The 10th Anniversary of the Canadian Death Race has

come and gone and I had the pleasure of being a first

time participant. My friends and I decided to take on

the challenge of soloing and have spent the past year

and a half training. For those of you who don’t know,

the Death Race is 125 km in and around the area of

Grande Cache encompassing three mountains (Flood,

Grande and Hamel) and elevation changes totaling

17,000 feet. You have 24 hours to complete this task

with cut-off times which must be met for each of the

five legs.

Given the issues with running into wild life out on the

trails, it is very important to have people to train with

in taking on this type of lengthy training. On one par-

ticular outing last winter, my training partner and I

were snowshoeing out toward the A La Peche cabin

when a symphony of wolves began. It was both eerie

and beautiful, but I certainly wouldn’t have wanted to

be out there alone.

check fish nets north of George Island, near the mouth of

the Cochrane River.

The three were expected back Wednesday evening and

when they didn't return, a search was organized.

Members of the Wollaston Lake Canadian Rangers, a

military reserve unit, located the three missing boaters on

an island in the northern section of lake, just after noon

CST. The trio's predicament was caused by the break-

down of a boat motor.

Family members told CBC News Friday that Toby

Joseyounen, 60, was fishing with his 12-year-old grand-

son and the boy's 13-year-old cousin. Following the mo-

tor problem, they made their way to an island where they

were able to camp until they were rescued.

The 13-year-old's mother, Annie Joseyounen, said that

she was concerned, but confident Toby's experience

would keep them safe. "He's a person that's out on the

lake a lot and stuff," Joseyounen said. "But then this

morning when I woke up that's when I started thinking: I

hope I didn't lose my son forever."

She said the three of them had shelter, blankets and fish-

ing rods, so they were able to keep warm, dry and fed

until help arrived. Joseyounen said she has spoken to

Toby who told her they were all safe and sound.

18

CANADIAN DEATH RACE

AB/SK Detachment

By WO Mike Gilliard

First one may ask what the Canadian Death Race is and

why would someone want to take part in a race with such

a name.

This race takes place in and around the mountains of

Grande Cache , Alberta. The participants run, walk,

crawl and slide down the Mountainous terrain covering a

total of 125 Km (80Miles). This year two Rangers,

Selena Slavic and Tasha Opperman, from Grande Cache,

took part as soloists in the race.

Flood Mountain, Grande and Hamel are the three moun-

tains that are traversed, with a total elevation change of

Training during the

week was about an

hour or two a day

and a combination of

both cardio and

weight training. The

weekends were gen-

erally the time for

long distance train-

ing and we were out

anywhere from 4 to 7

hours on those days.

Unfortunately, I

ended up timing out

at the end of leg 3

this year as I missed the cut-off time by a few minutes.

On the positive, I look forward to taking on this chal-

lenge again as it is a fantastic experience and the camara-

derie out on the trails makes the grueling training regi-

men very worth while.

Flood Mountain

17,000 ft. The race is broken into 5 legs or one can run

solo. There were over 1400 entries, of these 400 were

soloists.

Leg one starts in Grande Cache, this 19 KM relatively

flat leg takes the average runner about 2 hrs to com-

plete. Although this leg is not very difficult there is

some degree of elevation change.

Leg Two, starts the uphill

climb. This leg approx 27

Km long, begins to chal-

lenge all runners. All ex-

cept for about 6 km of this

leg is uphill. The top, Flood

Mountain, has a nice view

of the lakes just below

Grande Cache. It is only

half the distance, now it is

time to go back down. Fol-

lowing a Mountain Goat

path, the runners walk, slip and slide their way through

and area called, “SLUGFEST.” Once through, it is

back uphill to the top of Grande and down the power

line back into town. Leg two is considered to be the

most technical leg, as it is the steepest, and most of it is

trail. Runners start to fall out on this leg, with sprains,

dislocations or just plain worn out.

Leg Three, about 17km, is again relatively flat, as it

follows mostly along the River. As a soloists this leg

is used as a sort of rest and gather strength for Leg

Four. More runners fall out on this leg, due to timing

out. Simply put, if you have not crossed the Leg Three

finish line by 1900 hrs, you time out. Unfortunately,

due to injuries and time, this is where Selena and Tasha

ended their quest, to be the first Official Canadian

Rangers to finish the Death race.

Now starts Leg Four. This 45Km leg is the toughest,

as most of it is uphill. The top of Mount Hamel, sits at

7000 Ft. The average runner takes about 8 hrs to com-

plete this leg. As darkness sets in, and you are alone

with the night and your fatigue, noises in the bushes

begin to have an adverse effect on your mind.

Leg Five, is a 23Km trek through beautiful Willmore

park. This leg offers the runner a quick rest as they get

a boat ride across the River. Once across, only 19

more Km’s to go to finish and claim bragging rights to

having completed the Death Race.

Of course any cross Country race such as this requires

a lot of volunteers. Manning aid stations, checkpoints

NOT YOUR AVERAGE CLERK

JTFW/LFWA Public Affairs

Edmonton, Alta.

BY Capt Christine Salt

Living on a diet of chicken, asparagus, broccoli and

rice for eight weeks. Working out three hours a day

and avoiding the temptations that can be found in all

social settings. Those sacrifices has led to a third place

finish for a CF member at the annual Alberta body-

building competition on June 26.

Sgt Jessica Roberts, a clerk with 4 Canadian Ranger

Patrol Group based at CFB Edmonton Detachment, has

been involved in competitive bodybuilding for about

five years now. “I don’t know why I got into it,” she

said, “I think it’s because I was single and was looking

for something to do.” She participated in the Alberta

Bodybuilding Association Provincial Championships

which were originated by bodybuilding enthusiasts

Donna and Brian Logue.

Sgt Roberts’ petite frame belies little of her muscular

physique when she’s wearing her CADPAT uniform or

a track suit. At 5’2”, she’s not very intimidating.

However, when she’s at the gym, wearing a sport top

and loose yoga pants, her defined abdominal muscles

and chiseled back turns heads. It helps that she has

only four percent body fat.

There are always a few people voicing their desire to

look like her, but she makes sure to set them straight.

“To get ready for a competition,” she explained, “I’ve

had to avoid dairy and wheat products and the only

water I drink is distilled. It’s not the healthiest

way to live.”

She may be fit for the sport, but she readily admits that

if she had to do a ruck-sack march tomorrow, she

would find it very difficult. It was these factors that

required her to seek permission from her chain of com-

Sgt Jessica Roberts

completes one of

her last workouts

four days prior to

competing in the

Alberta Bodybuild-

ing Association

Donna & Brian

Logue Provincial

Championships.

Photo by Capt

Christine Salt,

LFWA Public Af-

19

and of course casualty recovery. As part of this year’s

training plan for the AB/SK Det, approval was given for

Rangers to act as support to the Military and provide trail

watch.

For those of us on the ATV’s, we enjoyed some of the

most beautiful and challenging areas that ATV enthusi-

asts could hope for. Spending 24 hrs on the quads, cov-

ering 138 miles of trails, is what being a Ranger Instruc-

tor is all about.

We are already planning for next’s years race and chal-

lenging more Rangers to take part, either as soloists, as a

team of five or if we get enough interest, maybe both.

Rgr Chevier manning check point

mand before she started training for the 2010 body-

building championships.

Getting ready for a bodybuilding competition requires

an obscene amount of dedication. There’s food to be

measured, workouts to be planned and having to avoid

temptations present at birthdays, holidays, military so-

cials, mug-outs and backyard barbecues.

When Sgt Roberts first decided to try the sport she quit

before the competition. “When I asked myself, ‘Did I

quit because it was too hard?’ the answer was yes.” So

the next year, with a new determination, she got some-

one to help her with her diet, determined not to give

up.

Months later, covered in Pro-Tan and wearing a two-

piece bathing suit that is designed specifically for

bodybuilding competitions, Sgt Roberts took to the

stage in both the morning and evening shows. The

evening portion included a one-minute individual free-

style pose to music and a pose-down of the top five

finishers to vie for top spot. Not one to be a wall-

flower, Roberts quickly ran to the front of the stage to

take up the most noticeable position in front of the

judges - much to the crowd’s delight.

After the end of the competition, Sgt Roberts although

pleased with her performance, was unhappy with the

overall result. “I wouldn’t change a thing,” she replied

when asked if she would do anything differently. The

reaction from the crowd when her third-place finish

was called made it obvious that she was favored to

win. Her final words on the subject? She’ll be back

ready to come back next year. “I have to now.”

20

MOUNTAIN VIEW

AB/SK Detachment

by Ranger Preston

August 19 dawned with the light of a blood red moon

due to the 292 wildfires burning out of control through-

out British Columbia. The smoky haze in the air did

nothing to dampen the spirits or enthusiasm of the 18

Canadian Rangers gathered at Fireman’s Pit, a popular

recreation area in Grande Cache, Alberta. Members of

the Peace River and High Level Patrols came together

with the Grande Cache Patrol to learn, share and have

fun. It was to be 5 days of Alpine Familiarization

Training dubbed “Exercise Mountain Rope”.

Training sessions each evening helped prepare the par-

ticipants for the following days exercise. There were

reviews of various knots and anchors as well as dem-

onstrations of the many lines and methods of transport

that the Rangers would utilize during the week.

Day 1 was spent rappelling a short (15 metre) cliff face

where the instructors first demonstrated their skill and

compassion with copious amounts of patience and

Just dropping in

Sgt Jessica Roberts (second from right) and competitors

complete the compulsory poses as called by the judges. Sgt

Roberts was competing in the Lightweight category which

is capped at 114.5 lbs.

21

encouragement. The goal was to build confidence for

the many Rangers who went over the edge with trepi-

dation and to prepare them for the higher rappels

ahead.

The second day was not for the feint of heart as the

Rangers rappelled down a 45 metre vertical cliff face

from the peak of Sulphur gates. The splendour and

majesty of the Rockies was enjoyed by all especially in

the afternoon as the two instructors transported every-

one 45 metres across a high line over the Sulphur

River.

Despite the heavy rains on Sunday it was the favourite

day of many. A high line was strung across the top of

Twin Falls with a subsequent rappel down the side.

Much laughter could be heard as everyone huddled

together amongst the trees enjoying the daily lunch of

military rations and trying to outlast the weather. Alas,

the downpour continued so the group returned to base

camp to prepare for the final day of training.

A convoy of quads carried the Rangers, Instructors and

ample gear to the final training location on Monday.

There was many a sore back after a mock rescue

showed just how much effort was required to raise an

injured climber. More than one Ranger commented on

their growing respect for the search and rescue aspect

of our duties.

It was with melancholy and fatigue that the Rangers

convened on their temporary parade square to hear the

final words from the Sergeant. A Special Service

Medal was presented to Ranger Linnea Grenier before

everyone was dismissed to await the last of many

bountiful and delicious suppers.

The week was a phenomenal success with many new

skills learned and long time friendships forged. Whether

scrambling up a steep embankment for one more rappel

or relaxing with cocoa at the fireside, many memories

will be cherished by all who took part. See you next

year!

Rgr Jill Chubac -

just enjoying the

sights

Still going at 76...or

so...Rgr Hugh

Harrop

Rgr Darcy being a

dude

22

The next two days were spent in preparation for and

conducting the GSAR Ex. The scenario for the Search

was that a small plane with two pers had gone missing.

As we all know, part of the Rangers tasks could be to

guide the military into a remote area. Since Rangers

are to be familiar with the land around their commu-

nity, the Valleyview Patrol was given the task to pre-

pare and guide the soldiers along four different routes,

so route recce’s could be done. The Search area cov-

ered appox 250 sq km, so haste was needed to narrow

down the likely crash site

In keeping with our vision, the AB/SK Rangers exer-

cise with different scenario’s so that they are able to

plan for such a task. Four of the Patrol’s Leadership

Rangers were given a brief set of orders and left to plan

everything that a team of 8 pers would need to deploy

for 48 hrs. With a few minor hic-cups all was set, and

everyone headed out to the field camp area.

Sharing knowledge and expertise goes hand and hand

when working with other CF Units. With that in mind,

Cpl Murray of the LdSH, gave a class on how to build

a helipad. Of course with living in the Wilderness, the

Rangers had the opportunity to do some Basic Wilder-

ness Survival with the Soldiers.

Once everyone arrived, a new set of Orders given, the

Search for the plane and it’s passengers began. By

noon the Search area was narrowed down and the

Rangers moved in to provide casualty care, build a heli

-pad and search for the flight recorder.

Once all was secure and the casualties ready to be

loaded, the Ex ended. Everyone packed up and headed

back to Valleyview, where Ranger Don Gourlay was

fixing a fine feast. We are always amazed, that a man

with his years of experience is still able to outwork

Rgr’s get OP’s briefing

SPECIALTY TRAINING - VALLEYVIEW

AB/SK Detachment

By WO Mike Gilliard

This year the Valleyview Ranger Patrol played host to

the AB/SK Det Specialty training. Like last year the

skills offered were ATV Safety, Chainsaw Safety, Ob-

servation Post refresher, Bear Awareness, Shotgun

training, heli-pad construction and of course a GSAR

Ex.

As expected, Valleyview Patrol did a fine job in pre-

paring and hosting a total of 37 pers for this week’s

training. Rangers Greg Laureta and Rob Siverson from

the BC Det, Rangers Glen Osmond and David Wood

from the MB Det, 10 Soldiers from the Lord Strath-

cona’s Horse (Royal Canadians’ and another 21 Rang-

ers from this Det, along with staff would all enjoy the

fruits of their labor.

Rangers Ed McCarthy and Bill Evans were the instruc-

tors for the ATV safety. It was important to get as

much familiarization with the ATV’s as possible, so all

Rangers and Soldiers alike would be ready for the final

Ex. Of course only one day was not enough quading

for everyone, so another day was added, along with the

OP training.

The third day saw all pers involved go through the An-

nual Ranger Shoot. The bolt action, open sight, single

shot, really old .303 Lee Enfield rifle, proved to be a

whole new experience for some of the Soldiers. The

hi-light of the range day was of course, the shotgun

training. This included a little walk through “Jungle

Lane” engaging Bear targets and then a go at the sport

trap shooting.

23

many people. Many thanks and much appreciation go

out to Don for all he does for this Det and the Valleyview

Patrol.

Working with other CF Units, definitely has its rewards.

Already the Det is planning for added Survival training,

with the LDSH (RC). Our goal is to become so busy that

we have to say no to other Units when they come looking

to broaden their horizons and work with the Canadian

Rangers.

A LONG TIME COMING

CATCHING UP

By WO JD McNicol

It has been about a year since the last report from the

Patrols in Northern Alberta and Saskatchewan of 4

CRPG, so I’m finally back in the office to catch up on

some chores and this would be one of them.

First thing I will report is that there is a new Patrol in our

midst. In September of 2009 the Grande Cache JCR Pa-

trol was opened. With that being said on behalf of the

Commanding Officer and all of us here at 4 CRPG we

want to welcome you with us and we look forward to

working with you in the future.

Up to this point Grande Cache has been very busy. Not

only have they been busy doing their own thing with the

Programme on the whole but they have also participated

in a few key events. With just a few short months behind

them they joined up with a few other JCR’s and took the

Survival School course that is generally offered only to

Rangers, Reserve Force and Regular Force soldiers. This

course teaches the students how to survive in the bush

with limited supplies and resources. So for two nights

and three days in teams of two they had to build impro-

vised shelters, start and maintain a fire, snare small game

for food, keep water on and take care of each other dur-

ing this particular exercise. Did I mention that this was

run in February, at the height of the winter season? I

should pass on here that that they didn’t have much luck

in area of snaring food however at the start of the exer-

cise they did receive one IMP and a squirrel that was

snared prior to the exercise. Not everyone cooked up the

squirrel. However, if the event was one more day I have

no doubt that they would have been eaten. Let me tell

you that there were a few hungry JCR’s and Rangers at

the end of that exercise.

Grande Cache also hosted a joint exercise where JCR’s

came in from both the Pouce Coupe and Fort Vermilion

Patrols. All three Patrols helped in the maintenance of

an old camp just south of Grande Cache. They had to

repair an obstacle course, rebuild a firewall, build a fire

pit/BBQ and set up camp routine. They also participated

in both the Basic and Advanced ETS’s held in Cochrane

Alberta during the summer. All participants including a

very tired Adult Committee Member Jenny Bowers who

became fully immersed in the JCR Programme got home

safe and sound but a little on the tired side.

Junior Rangers Colton Norbert and Jeffrey

Musseau looking hungry and tired in the cold

JCR’s Tasha MacKinley (Running) and

Justine Campbell (Kissing Rubber)

Making their way through the obstacle course

24

They were also selected to participate in the parade at

Capital Days in Edmonton during the summer. They had

to assist with the construction of the Ranger/Junior

Ranger entry float. After a few hours of sorting out

what was going where on the float they got to work and

built it. I heard tell that one of the JCR’s wanted to take

home a Leopard Tank.

Different perspectives on the taste of

rations

Left to right – Patrol Leader MCPL

Derrick MacKinley

Junior Rangers cooking their Breakfast in a

Under the watchful eyes of Sgt Wiggins

The float didn’t take long to put together and arrived

just in time to wait for the parade to start. Fun was

had by all who attended and I want to pass on a job

well done by Sgt Wiggins to all who helped out.

Fort Vermilion has also been very busy these days.

Not only participating in both the Basic and Advanced

but they have helped out in building their own cabin in

the bush. Patrol Leader MCpl Andy Flooren has do-

nated the wood and expertise to build a cabin for the

JCR Patrol so that they have somewhere they can go

anytime of the year. Be it Quad trips in the warm

months or trips in the winter on snow machines.

Fort Vermilion also participated in the winter Survival

School held in Grande Cache during the cold month of

February.

Members of the Grande Cache JCR Patrol

posing on the float prior to the parade

JCR Patrol Leader MCpl Andy Flooren

posing in front of the donated JCR Cabin

(I said it needs more work, he said it was finished)

25

They have also done a dry run for a future exercise

where the JCR’s attending will have to complete vari-

ous tasks as a team in order to complete the challenge.

This future exercise will incorporate canoeing, hiking,

bannock making, fire starting, a mini Daisy Air Rifle

shoot, building of an improvised stretcher and a little bit of navigation with map and compass. Over the pe-

riod of a weekend the JCR’s completed all tasks put to

them and had a great time with it. This looks to be a

promising event that can lead to more in the future.

Junior Ranger Clint Cardinal with a hungry

look sitting warm with Junior Ranger Mark Simpson

(right)

Junior Ranger Nick Straeb (Left) having a chat with

Junior Ranger Jayden MacNeil. During a game of

Murder

When it

was all

complete

both the

JCR’s and

Adult com-

mittee were

tired but at

the same

time

excited to

throw the

challenge to

JCR Patrols that come up to Fort Vermilion on ex-

change.

Fort Chipewyan has had a busy couple of months

which included participation in the Survival School in

February 2010. Patrol Leader Henry Marcel brought 4

JCR’s with him to attend the training. JCR’s Matthew

Marcel, David (Junior) Powder, Randel (Lucas) Waq-

uan and Preston Castor had learned a lot from the in-

struction but mentioned that they lost some weight due

to a lack of food.

JCR’s setting off on the first leg of the Amazing Race

JCR’s making Bannock under the

Survival School participants (left – right)

JCR’s Matthew Marcel Lucas Waquan and

Patrol Leader MCpl Henry Marcel all looking a little

hungry during the 2 days without food

26

The Patrol also spent a weekend out at Shelter Point to

learn how to set some traps, learn some hand games do

some drumming and even spend an afternoon in the wa-

ter for a swim. In the future they plan on going out on a

moose hunt in September followed by a trip on snow ma-

chines in February to meet up with Fond Du Lac JCR’s

at Camsell Portage which is located about 4 hours north

east of Fort Chipewyan. It should be an exciting trip and

something to look forward to.

Fond Du Lac has been working away at things as well,

they spent a weekend in the winter to learn how to set

nets under the ice. After which they did a rely race that

started with putting on snowshoes and making a mad

dash to the rifle range to shoot a 22 cal rifle at a few tar-

gets out on the ice. After the race everyone settled down

Junior Rangers Rene and Peter Marcel

learning the fine art of snaring under the tutelage

of Ranger George (Sloan) Whiteknife

Junior Ranger Catherine Power-Castor

showing off her skills at making snares

to a great winter picnic with caribou ribs, baked pota-

toes and fresh fish. Over that same weekend they took

a day trip out to Richards Lake to visit an old cabin

that has been there since the 1800’s and spent some

time cruising the area for a fantastic trip and then back

to town to warm up.

During the summer some of the JCR’s attended the

Basic ETS that was held in Cochrane Alberta. I heard

they had a great time during that event as well. Plans

for the future include meeting Fort Chipewyan via

snow machine in the winter in Camsell Portage and

Patrol Leaders Albert and Rita Adam teaching

JCR’s how to set nets under the ice in winter

Winter Picnic. Caribou Ribs, fresh fish and baked

potatoes

27

GOLD FEVER!

AB/SK Detachment

by Rgr Jim Savory

One of the unique attributes of the Town of Grande

Cache is the “Passport To The Peaks Program”. Started

by local doctor Keith Darcel, it celebrates hiking in the

beautiful Rocky Mountains where the town rests on a pla-

teau at 4200 feet. There are 21 peaks that can be viewed

from town and they are all rated either Bronze, Silver, or

Gold; on each mountain top there is a mailbox with a

passport seal that hikers use to prove that they made it to

the peak. The bronze are the mountains close to town and

can be done in a day, the silver are higher and more chal-

lenging. The Gold are a challenge to get to, as well as to

summit. Less then a couple of dozen people have com-

pleted the program that has been running for many years.

The local Canadian Ranger patrol (4th CRPG) is challeng-

ing itself by having members attempt to complete the pro-

gram in the next two years.

Patrol commander Rick Drummond, 2IC Don Dyer, and

Rangers Mark MacFadden, Dominic LaCroix, Denis

Grenier, and Jim Savory spent August 7th -14th backpack-

ing and climbing three of the Gold Peaks. The log books

on the peaks reminded the rangers of the rarity of the

task; no one had made it to the peaks for over two years.

The challenge lay in the weight of the packs, the lack of

trails and need to bushwhack, as well as the great gains in

elevation. After a days hike in to establish a base camp,

three Golds were achieved in three days. The Rangers

then backpacked the camp to another location to strive for

a fourth peak. Alas, mountain weather that contained hail,

rain, thunder and lightning, deterred us from getting a

fourth peak. Savoring the memories of the beautiful al-

pine vistas and teamwork involved, the local rangers are

already planning for future expeditions to complete the

“Passport To The Peaks Program.”

they may even try doing a trip up north find some cari-

bou.

Overall the Patrols are making great headway and

keeping very busy which is what the programme is all

about and at this time I want to say thank you to all

those who assist and participate in making this pro-

gramme happen be they the Adult Committees, the

Rangers and the Junior Ranger. If it wasn’t for you it

wouldn’t be as successful as it is. Keep up the great

work and remember to have fun.

That’s all I have right now so take care and I look for-

ward to seeing all of you soon.

Remember - keep your stick on the ice.

Patrol Leader Cpl Albert Adam (left) and Junior

Ranger Allan Mercredi checking out the old cabins

on Richards Lake south of Fond Du Lac

28