15th Field Artillery Regiment,
The Royal Regiment of Canadian Artillery
1996
The Royal Regiment of Canadian Artillery
1996
as at 24 April 2021
Sub-units
31st Field Battery, RCA
68th Field Battery, RCA
Band of the 15th Field Artillery Regiment, RCA
31st Field Battery, RCA
68th Field Battery, RCA
Band of the 15th Field Artillery Regiment, RCA
Key Appointments
Regimental Command Post Officer: Lieutenant Doug P Gayton
Unit Training Assistant: Warrant Officer Don Gatward
31 Battery
Battery Sergeant Major (BSM): Master Warrant Officer James Jacobson
Unit Training Assistant: Warrant Officer Don Gatward
31 Battery
Battery Sergeant Major (BSM): Master Warrant Officer James Jacobson
Promotions and Appointments
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Apr 1996 Major Jack W Mortlock CD promoted Lieutenant-Colonel and appointed Commanding Officer. |
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Master Warrant Officer JE Jacobson CD appointed Regimental Sergeant Major. |
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Master Bombardier Ian M Smith promoted Sergeant. |
Captain Kent A Wickens appointed Battery Commander, 31 Battery.
Members deployed on Operations
Jan 1996 A/Captain Leon Jensen CD transferred to NATO Implementation Force (IFOR) as Former Warring Factions Liaison Officers Operations Officer
Sep 1996 OP PALLADIUM - 2nd Battalion Princess Patricia Canadian light Infantry
Master Bombardier James Perkins
Master Bombardier Darrell Erickson
New Members
Captain Chris Byrne posted in from 1st Regiment Royal Canadian Horse Artillery
Sergeant Christian Delorme posted in as Chief Clerk
Master Bombardier Cheryl McHugh transferred in from The Governor General's Foot Guards
Feb 1996 Private (Recruit) Tymothy Spruston enrolled
Members deployed on Operations
Jan 1996 A/Captain Leon Jensen CD transferred to NATO Implementation Force (IFOR) as Former Warring Factions Liaison Officers Operations Officer
Sep 1996 OP PALLADIUM - 2nd Battalion Princess Patricia Canadian light Infantry
Master Bombardier James Perkins
Master Bombardier Darrell Erickson
New Members
Captain Chris Byrne posted in from 1st Regiment Royal Canadian Horse Artillery
Sergeant Christian Delorme posted in as Chief Clerk
Master Bombardier Cheryl McHugh transferred in from The Governor General's Foot Guards
Feb 1996 Private (Recruit) Tymothy Spruston enrolled
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NATO Medal for Former Yugoslavia (NATO-FY)
On 14 December 1995 North Atlantic Council launched the largest military operation ever undertaken by the Alliance, Operation Joint Endeavour. Based on UN Security Council Resolution 1031, NATO was given the mandate to implement the military aspects of the Peace Agreement. A NATO-led multinational force, called the Implementation Force (IFOR), started its mission on 20 December 1995. IFOR was given a one-year mandate. Major Leon Jensen awarded the NATO medal. See more... |
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Canadian Forces' Decoration (CD)
The Canadian Forces' Decoration is awarded to officers and Non-Commissioned Members of the Canadian Forces who have completed twelve years of service with a good record of conduct. The decoration is awarded to the regular forces, reserve forces, officers of the Cadet Instructors Cadre (CIC), Canadian Rangers and holders of honorary appointments in the CF. Master Bombardier Ian Smith receives his Canadian Forces Decoration from the Colonel Commandant. Captain Noel RR Dykes awarded his first bar to the Canadian Forces Decoration.See more... |
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The Gunner Douglas Corsor Jr. Memorial Trophy
This trophy was created by his close friends in the Regiment, Gunner Noel RR Dykes, Gunner Joseph C. Gauthier, Gunner R. Gerard, Gunner H. Harsch and Gunner V. Hughes after his untimely death in a vehicle accident in 1974. It is presented to the Gunner that most exemplifies the best characteristics of being a Gunner. This year’s award is presented to Gunner DF Taylor. |
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Most Efficient Recruit 15th Field Regiment RCA
This award is presented to the most efficient recruit from the start of the training period in September of the previous year. This year’s winner of the trophy is Private (Recruit) Tim M Sterkenberg. |
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Members Qualifications
QL6A Part 2 Detachment Commanders Course
Master Bombardier Mathew Gillies
Master Bombardier Ian M Smith
Forward Observation Officer (FOO) Technicians Course
Bombardier Lisa Abbott
Bombardier Darrell Erickson
Reserve Entry Scheme Officers (RESO)
Second Lieutenant Isaac Skuce
Second Lieutenant Don Lamb
Officer Cadet Rob Tyler
QL6A Part 2 Detachment Commanders Course
Master Bombardier Mathew Gillies
Master Bombardier Ian M Smith
Forward Observation Officer (FOO) Technicians Course
Bombardier Lisa Abbott
Bombardier Darrell Erickson
Reserve Entry Scheme Officers (RESO)
Second Lieutenant Isaac Skuce
Second Lieutenant Don Lamb
Officer Cadet Rob Tyler
Crab Park - Vancouver
Salute Troop Commander - Lieutenant Doug Gayton
Salute Troop TSM - Warrant Officer John McClelland
#1 Gun Detachment Commander - Sergeant Drew Bartlett
#2 Gun Detachment Commander - Master Bombardier Ian Smith
#3 Gun Detachment Commander -
See more...
Salute Troop Commander - Lieutenant Doug Gayton
Salute Troop TSM - Warrant Officer John McClelland
#1 Gun Detachment Commander - Sergeant Drew Bartlett
#2 Gun Detachment Commander - Master Bombardier Ian Smith
#3 Gun Detachment Commander -
See more...
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Major Leon Jensen started his service with IFOR on return from Christmas leave. The HQ 4th Armoured Brigade had moved to a forward position and the HQ 3rd Armoured Division took over in Gornji Vakuf as the Multi-National Division (South-West).
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Presentation to outgoing Commanding Officer
Lieutenant-Colonel John Brownlee-Baker is presented gifts from the Regiment on his departure.
Lieutenant-Colonel John Brownlee-Baker is presented gifts from the Regiment on his departure.
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Reserve Restructure Implementation Working Group
The Commanding Officer takes part in ongoing discussion regarding the future of the Army Reserve. |
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Summer 1996
Private Corry Cruikshank on Summer 96 tasking with FETS (Field Engineer Training School). A wonderful way to spend summer in Chilliwack. |
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Exercises Conducted
Ex Western Challenge 96 Fort Lewis WA
Ex Western Challenge 96 Fort Lewis WA
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Ex Cougar Salvo
The Ram provided some photographs of the artillery portion of the exercise. |
Shilo Live Fire Exercise
The guns deploy out on the flat prairies. Not too sure who is in the photographs but we do have the Honorary Lieutenant Colonel Vic Stevenson posing with Captain Glen Hamilton-Brown and Bombardier Quinn Gillard. I'm also not too sure about the photo with the ILTIS. Captain Hamilton-Brown seems to be supervising some sort of operation. Possibly a case of barbed wire wrapped around the axle? See more...
The guns deploy out on the flat prairies. Not too sure who is in the photographs but we do have the Honorary Lieutenant Colonel Vic Stevenson posing with Captain Glen Hamilton-Brown and Bombardier Quinn Gillard. I'm also not too sure about the photo with the ILTIS. Captain Hamilton-Brown seems to be supervising some sort of operation. Possibly a case of barbed wire wrapped around the axle? See more...
Spring Range Exercise Chilliwack
It appears to have been a great exercise in Chilliwack. There was the C7 range portion, grenades, rappelling and gas chamber. See more...
It appears to have been a great exercise in Chilliwack. There was the C7 range portion, grenades, rappelling and gas chamber. See more...
Winter Range Exercise Chilliwack
Slightly different weather conditions than the Spring exercise! It's still great weather for the C7 range and to hold a promotion parade. See more...
Slightly different weather conditions than the Spring exercise! It's still great weather for the C7 range and to hold a promotion parade. See more...
Supervisor of Music Visit Report March 1996
…upon a special request by the Director of Music of the 15th Field Artillery Band, the Supervisor of Music evaluated the Band’s performance…
The 15th Field Artillery was well prepared for the visit … The Band demonstrated a high level of performance. All musical groups were well rehearsed … the Band has found itself fulfilling the role of a Regular Force Band in the western region and outside the Canadian boundaries ….In order to provide the proper musical support … a pool of 60 musicians is not a requirement but rather a necessity to meet all demands.
…recommend leasing another facility, theatre, school, or moving the band to a better place…
…music performed was well executed … performed at a very high standard … a fine performance … congratulations to all … very impressed by the performance … an excellent job … performed at a professional level …
….Some of the best musicians in Vancouver have joined the 15th Field Band for the challenge and the quality of music the group has maintained over the years…playing proficiency is very good…capable of great achievement…
…upon a special request by the Director of Music of the 15th Field Artillery Band, the Supervisor of Music evaluated the Band’s performance…
The 15th Field Artillery was well prepared for the visit … The Band demonstrated a high level of performance. All musical groups were well rehearsed … the Band has found itself fulfilling the role of a Regular Force Band in the western region and outside the Canadian boundaries ….In order to provide the proper musical support … a pool of 60 musicians is not a requirement but rather a necessity to meet all demands.
…recommend leasing another facility, theatre, school, or moving the band to a better place…
…music performed was well executed … performed at a very high standard … a fine performance … congratulations to all … very impressed by the performance … an excellent job … performed at a professional level …
….Some of the best musicians in Vancouver have joined the 15th Field Band for the challenge and the quality of music the group has maintained over the years…playing proficiency is very good…capable of great achievement…
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Apparently the CF Supervisor of Music was quite concerned about the quality or lack of DEU uniforms and followed up with a letter to the Comd BC District several months later.
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Standard Combat Skills Training – Hawaii
…great pleasure I pass on my compliments … an infectious attitude for working hard and having great fun…great ambassadors of Canada…stellar group… CO 25th Inf Div Band |
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The Freedom of the City of Peachland for The British Columbia Dragoons
…. A tremendous contribution to the event and were one of the highlights of the day. They greatly impressed the people of Peachland, and the past and present military members on parade, with both their music skills and excellent dress and deportment…CO BCD |
Celtic New Year Festival – Reno, Nevada
…. Cannot thank you and your group enough. You turned what would have been a disaster into one of the finest shows we have seen in the Northern Nevada area. Is amazed and still wonder how you put it all together so well …. We look with great respect and awe at the ability of the 15th Field Regiment R.C.A. ….Event Organizer
…a real pleasure to perform alongside your band … gave all of us a great appreciation of the professional quality of your music and how multi-talented your organization is… very rewarding to work with a group that is as professional about its music as we are about ours…SFU Pipe Band Manager
…. Cannot thank you and your group enough. You turned what would have been a disaster into one of the finest shows we have seen in the Northern Nevada area. Is amazed and still wonder how you put it all together so well …. We look with great respect and awe at the ability of the 15th Field Regiment R.C.A. ….Event Organizer
…a real pleasure to perform alongside your band … gave all of us a great appreciation of the professional quality of your music and how multi-talented your organization is… very rewarding to work with a group that is as professional about its music as we are about ours…SFU Pipe Band Manager
Pan Pacific Hazards ’96 Conference and Trade Show
…There is no doubt that without your help and the great music of 15 Field Regimental Band that the conference would not have enjoyed the success that it did. I shall always remember the Lieutenant-Governor asking me how I managed to arrange to have such a wonderful band available for the Chairmen’s Dinner…the conference is indebted to you for your help and support ....Executive Director
…the highlight of the Pan Pacific …. Was the performance given by you and your band …. Complete professionalism …. a great credit to your unit and the military in this area … CF Coord PPH ‘96
….express my appreciation to the 15 RCA Band for their support at the Pan Pacific …. reception held onboard HMCS Huron …. their ability to adjust to a new environment and perform at such a high standard …. Commended for their ability to adapt to naval ceremonial protocol…. CO HMCS Huron
…There is no doubt that without your help and the great music of 15 Field Regimental Band that the conference would not have enjoyed the success that it did. I shall always remember the Lieutenant-Governor asking me how I managed to arrange to have such a wonderful band available for the Chairmen’s Dinner…the conference is indebted to you for your help and support ....Executive Director
…the highlight of the Pan Pacific …. Was the performance given by you and your band …. Complete professionalism …. a great credit to your unit and the military in this area … CF Coord PPH ‘96
….express my appreciation to the 15 RCA Band for their support at the Pan Pacific …. reception held onboard HMCS Huron …. their ability to adjust to a new environment and perform at such a high standard …. Commended for their ability to adapt to naval ceremonial protocol…. CO HMCS Huron
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Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit Eleven Commissioning Retirement Ceremony
…dynamic enthusiasm and flawless play … CO Unit Eleven |
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LDO/CWO Class 97010 Commissioning/Retirement Ceremony
…express my deepest gratitude … members of the Royal Canadian Army Artillery Band displayed an extremely sharp appearance and exceptional music skills … highlight of the ceremony … ENS USN here to edit. |
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Change of Command Ceremony, Naval Air Reserve Whidbey Island
… outstanding musicianship … highlight of the ceremony … such high “Esprit de Corps.” You should take great pride in the wonderful organization you so admirably lead…CO |
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Change of Command Patrol Squadron Sixty-nine
…group of superb musicians… A true class act!...I have never seen nor heard their match… |
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Rotary Club of Ladner Installation Dinner
…absolutely magnificent…skill, energy, enthusiasm and competence of the 15th Field Regiment Band… |
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Former Members now in other Reserve units
April 1996 Major Leon Jensen, CD employed as G1 39 Canadian Brigade Group. Major Leon Jensen, CD student on Militia Command and Staff Course. |
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Members Extra-Regimentally Employed
Sergeant Rob G Wishnicki, Class C employment with 1st Regiment Royal Canadian Horse Artillery |
15 Aug 1996 Sergeant Keith Laing, CD transfers to 12 Service Battalion.
Lieutenant-Colonel Dave Anderson, Commanding Officer 20th Field Artillery Regiment, Edmonton, AB.
Former Members now in Regular Force
Captain Noel RR Dykes, CD Land Force Western Area Headquarters, Edmonton AB G1 Operations 2 (Responsible for all Board of Enquiries, Summary Investigations)
Captain John P Pulchny Land Force Atlantic Area Headquarters, Halifax, NS.
Captain Dennis Rintjema posted to Royal Canadian Artillery School, Gagetown, NB.23 Jul 1995
Master Warrant Officer Colin Norris completed Master Gunner Course No. 27. Posted to Regular Support Staff Prairie at 78th Field Battery, 20th Field Artillery Regiment, RCA in Red Deer, AB.
Warrant Officer Paul A Stewart Royal Canadian Artillery School, Gagetown, NB.
Sergeant George M Dempsey Fox Bty, 2nd Regiment Royal Canadian Horse Artillery, Petawawa, ON.
Sergeant Chantale Grondin posted to National Defence Headquarters, Ottawa, ON.
Lieutenant-Colonel Dave Anderson, Commanding Officer 20th Field Artillery Regiment, Edmonton, AB.
Former Members now in Regular Force
Captain Noel RR Dykes, CD Land Force Western Area Headquarters, Edmonton AB G1 Operations 2 (Responsible for all Board of Enquiries, Summary Investigations)
Captain John P Pulchny Land Force Atlantic Area Headquarters, Halifax, NS.
Captain Dennis Rintjema posted to Royal Canadian Artillery School, Gagetown, NB.23 Jul 1995
Master Warrant Officer Colin Norris completed Master Gunner Course No. 27. Posted to Regular Support Staff Prairie at 78th Field Battery, 20th Field Artillery Regiment, RCA in Red Deer, AB.
Warrant Officer Paul A Stewart Royal Canadian Artillery School, Gagetown, NB.
Sergeant George M Dempsey Fox Bty, 2nd Regiment Royal Canadian Horse Artillery, Petawawa, ON.
Sergeant Chantale Grondin posted to National Defence Headquarters, Ottawa, ON.
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Dave Christensen, Weapons Squad Leader, 1 Platoon, C Company, 2/75 Rangers |
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Former members now retired
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A former Battery Sergeant Major of the Regiment, Master Warrant Officer George Chow, received his World War 2 certificate of Service from 16 Light Anti-Aircraft Battery, 3 Canadian Light Anti-Aircraft Regiment, Royal Canadian Artillery on 17 April 1996.
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Officers’ Mess
Pewter Whiskey Quaich
This traditional Scottish Whiskey supping cup was presented to the mess by Lieutenant-Colonel John S. Brownlee-Baker CD upon his relinquishing command in April 1996. It is engraved “WE’RE NAE AWA TO BIDE AWA. TO MY OFFICERS. B2, APRIL 1996
This traditional Scottish Whiskey supping cup was presented to the mess by Lieutenant-Colonel John S. Brownlee-Baker CD upon his relinquishing command in April 1996. It is engraved “WE’RE NAE AWA TO BIDE AWA. TO MY OFFICERS. B2, APRIL 1996
Captain Kent A Wickens married on 2 March 1996
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INFORMATION NEEDED!
There appears to be alcohol involved. And a memento being placed on the Officers’ Mess beam. So we have the where. We just need the Who, What, When |
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Warrant Officers' and Sergeants' Mess
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The Brigadier DuMoulin Trophy
This trophy is awarded to the most efficient member of the Sergeants’ Mess as determined by the displayed rating system. It is awarded at the Warrant Officers' and Sergeants’ Mess Annual Mess Dinner for their activities in the previous year. The winner for his service in 1995 is Sergeant Drew W. Bartlett. |
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Regimental Museum
The Regimental Museum and Archives continues to collect and preserve the history of the Royal Canadian Artillery in the mainland of British Columbia. The following pictures provide a view of the museum as it was in 1996. See more...
Canada Remembers
The Band of the 15th Field Artillery Regiment and the Regimental Museum participated in the highly successful public event held at the Seaforth Armoury on 9 November 1996. See more...
The Band of the 15th Field Artillery Regiment and the Regimental Museum participated in the highly successful public event held at the Seaforth Armoury on 9 November 1996. See more...
Yorke island
Regimental officers and friends of the Regiment visited the remnants of the coastal artillery fort on Yorke Island.
See more...
Regimental officers and friends of the Regiment visited the remnants of the coastal artillery fort on Yorke Island.
See more...
Obituaries
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Gunner John Ellis Adams
Served as a Gunner with the 58th Battery, 15th (Vancouver) Coast Brigade RCA from 28 August 1940. He was struck off strength to play professional hockey on 31 October 1940. After playing one season with the Montreal Canadiens, who had acquired his rights from Vancouver of the Pacific Coast Hockey League, he rejoined the military in the summer of 1941. After the war he married Valerie Rowan in 1946. He was also traded by the Canadiens to Buffalo but never made it back to the NHL. He finished his hockey career with New Westminster retiring from hockey in 1949. Deceased 21 August 1996 in Surrey, BC. |
Lists - The following pages contain additional information relating to the 15th Field Artillery Regiment, RCA
Honours and Awards
Trophies
Commanding Officers and Regimental Sergeants Major
Honoraries
Battery Commanders and Battery Sergeants Major
Band Appointments
Nominal Roll
Guns of the Regiment
Memorial Page
Honours and Awards
Trophies
Commanding Officers and Regimental Sergeants Major
Honoraries
Battery Commanders and Battery Sergeants Major
Band Appointments
Nominal Roll
Guns of the Regiment
Memorial Page