15th Field Artillery Regiment
The Royal Regiment of Canadian Artillery
2019
The Royal Regiment of Canadian Artillery
2019
as at 25 June 2023
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
Christmas 2019
Back Row - Capt George Dempsey, 2Lt Massoud Farahbakhsh, Sgt Ryan Crawford, Sgt Adam Coleman, Bdr Zeshan Syed, Pte Thomas Antrim, Pte Heussner, MBdr Starr Switzer, Bdr Carlos Larios-Lacayo, Gnr Kyle San Juan, Gnr Chris Tse, Bdr Yoon Choi, Pte Amelich, Gnr Maxwell Massicotte, Bdr Andrew Clark, MBdr Evan Huang, MCpl Jason Han, Pte van Rhyn, Pte Fuchs, Sgt Kyle Hodgson, Sgt Yuriy Bolgak, OCdt Binda.
Fourth Row – 2Lt Leiland Lloyd, Sgt Jayson Wong, Bdr Yonghoon Shin, Bdr Safar Alikhanii, Pte Fu, Pte Blake, Pte Feng, Pte M Wong, MBdr Steven Huang, MBdr Benjamin Trivers, Bdr Anders Grasdal, Bdr Bojan Aleksic, Pte Iversen, Bdr Calvin Wong, Bdr Joseph Guan, Pte de Genova, Bdr Patrick Luong, Bdr Joshua Langan, Pte Scarlett, Sgt Yves-Andre Langlois, Sgt Michael Wong.
Third Row - Capt Isaak Skuce, Sgt Donato Calogero, Gnr Hugh Kendall, Bdr Guillaume Lahaye, Bdr Terrence McGee, Bdr Oswin Kramer, MBdr Mackenzie Wilkie, Gnr Lee Empey, Pte Philip Nelson, Bdr Robbie Cavanagh, Pte Brent Bennett, Gnr Cole Steele, Pte Bressan, Pte Pugh, Bdr Andy Law, Pte Norman, Gnr Bezanson, Gnr Rasmus Dolleris, Bdr Min Kwoun Kim.
Second Row - Lt Chris Purdon, 2Lt Jiyeon Lee, OCdt Francis, Bdr Nolan Cheung, Bdr Tracy Gu, MBdr Melissa Sumpton, Pte Priscilla Wong, MBdr Joseph Rozario, Gnr Jennifer Wong, Bdr Tiffany Drew, Bdr Jessica Deacon, MBdr Dan Taylor, Pte Sidhu, Bdr Gary Tse, Bdr Amiel Ma, Pte Roberts Bustinz, Bdr Xavier Tintinger, Bdr Jenn Charters, Pte Mischenko, Sgt Kazue Maruyama.
Front Row – Sgt Brenda Woods, Capt Andrew Peters, Capt James Koh, Maj Ian Watt, WO Conrad Skuce, Maj Andrew Grieve, HLCol Don Foster, RSM CWO Rob Garrett, CO LCol Pierre Lajoie, HCol Al DeGenova, Maj Nick Watts, MWO Angus Brady, WO Eric Wong, Capt Kevin Walker, Capt James Morrison, Capt Rob Wishnicki, Capt Conway Hui.
Back Row - Capt George Dempsey, 2Lt Massoud Farahbakhsh, Sgt Ryan Crawford, Sgt Adam Coleman, Bdr Zeshan Syed, Pte Thomas Antrim, Pte Heussner, MBdr Starr Switzer, Bdr Carlos Larios-Lacayo, Gnr Kyle San Juan, Gnr Chris Tse, Bdr Yoon Choi, Pte Amelich, Gnr Maxwell Massicotte, Bdr Andrew Clark, MBdr Evan Huang, MCpl Jason Han, Pte van Rhyn, Pte Fuchs, Sgt Kyle Hodgson, Sgt Yuriy Bolgak, OCdt Binda.
Fourth Row – 2Lt Leiland Lloyd, Sgt Jayson Wong, Bdr Yonghoon Shin, Bdr Safar Alikhanii, Pte Fu, Pte Blake, Pte Feng, Pte M Wong, MBdr Steven Huang, MBdr Benjamin Trivers, Bdr Anders Grasdal, Bdr Bojan Aleksic, Pte Iversen, Bdr Calvin Wong, Bdr Joseph Guan, Pte de Genova, Bdr Patrick Luong, Bdr Joshua Langan, Pte Scarlett, Sgt Yves-Andre Langlois, Sgt Michael Wong.
Third Row - Capt Isaak Skuce, Sgt Donato Calogero, Gnr Hugh Kendall, Bdr Guillaume Lahaye, Bdr Terrence McGee, Bdr Oswin Kramer, MBdr Mackenzie Wilkie, Gnr Lee Empey, Pte Philip Nelson, Bdr Robbie Cavanagh, Pte Brent Bennett, Gnr Cole Steele, Pte Bressan, Pte Pugh, Bdr Andy Law, Pte Norman, Gnr Bezanson, Gnr Rasmus Dolleris, Bdr Min Kwoun Kim.
Second Row - Lt Chris Purdon, 2Lt Jiyeon Lee, OCdt Francis, Bdr Nolan Cheung, Bdr Tracy Gu, MBdr Melissa Sumpton, Pte Priscilla Wong, MBdr Joseph Rozario, Gnr Jennifer Wong, Bdr Tiffany Drew, Bdr Jessica Deacon, MBdr Dan Taylor, Pte Sidhu, Bdr Gary Tse, Bdr Amiel Ma, Pte Roberts Bustinz, Bdr Xavier Tintinger, Bdr Jenn Charters, Pte Mischenko, Sgt Kazue Maruyama.
Front Row – Sgt Brenda Woods, Capt Andrew Peters, Capt James Koh, Maj Ian Watt, WO Conrad Skuce, Maj Andrew Grieve, HLCol Don Foster, RSM CWO Rob Garrett, CO LCol Pierre Lajoie, HCol Al DeGenova, Maj Nick Watts, MWO Angus Brady, WO Eric Wong, Capt Kevin Walker, Capt James Morrison, Capt Rob Wishnicki, Capt Conway Hui.
Promotions and Appointments
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4 Sep 2019 Master Bombardier Yuriy Bolgak promoted Sergeant.
24 Sep 2019 Master Bombardier Kazue Maruyama promoted Sergeant. |
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11 Sep 2019 Gunner Sheikh Ifraz promoted Bombardier.
11 Sep 2019 Gunner Joshua Langan promoted Bombardier. 11 Sep 2019 Gunner Carlos Larios-Lacayo promoted Bombardier. |
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4 Sep 2019 Private Antonio Campos qualified Gunner.
4 Sep 2019 Private Robin Chan qualified Gunner. 4 Sep 2019 Private Rasmus Dolleris qualified Gunner. 4 Sep 2019 Private Lee Empey qualified Gunner. 4 Sep 2019 Private Jacob Findlay qualified Gunner. 4 Sep 2019 Private Justin Leung qualified Gunner. 4 Sep 2019 Private Maxwell Massicote qualified Gunner. 4 Sep 2019 Private Kyle San Juan qualified Gunner. 4 Sep 2019 Private Coleraine Steele qualified Gunner. 4 Sep 2019 Private Chris Tse qualified Gunner. 4 Sep 2019 Private Jennifer Wong qualified Gunner. |
Artilleryman Developmental Period 1 Course
Captain James Morrison was the course officer for the DP1 course at CFB Shilo over the summer. Check out the photos here.
Captain James Morrison was the course officer for the DP1 course at CFB Shilo over the summer. Check out the photos here.
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Presentations I
Captain Cheryl McHugh receives her commissioning scroll and Sergeant Kazue Maruyama receives her third stripe. |
Presentations II
Presentations were made after the Remembrance Day salute. Honorary Colonel Allan Degenova and Honorary Lieutenant-Colonel Don Foster received their Honorary Colonel Scrolls from the Commanding Officer. Second Lieutenant Leyland Lloyd, Second Lieutenant Ji Yeon Li and Second Lieutenant Jordan David Kivitis received their commissioning scrolls. Bombardier Rob Stone received his certificate of service after 33 years of service.
Presentations were made after the Remembrance Day salute. Honorary Colonel Allan Degenova and Honorary Lieutenant-Colonel Don Foster received their Honorary Colonel Scrolls from the Commanding Officer. Second Lieutenant Leyland Lloyd, Second Lieutenant Ji Yeon Li and Second Lieutenant Jordan David Kivitis received their commissioning scrolls. Bombardier Rob Stone received his certificate of service after 33 years of service.
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. The decoration is awarded to all ranks, who have a good record of conduct.
Master Warrant Officer Ken Surges, CD presented third clasp 13 June 2019.
Captain Rob Wishnicki, CD presented second clasp 1 July 2019.
Bombardier Rob Stone, CD presented second clasp 1 July 2019.
Bombardier Tracy Gu, CD presented on 24 September 2019.
Captain James Koh, CD presented on 14 December 2019.
Captain Conway Hui, CD and Bombardier Tiffany Drew, CD presented their first clasps on 14 December 2019.
See more...
The Canadian Forces' Decoration is awarded to officers and Non-Commissioned Members of the Canadian Forces who have completed twelve years of service. The decoration is awarded to all ranks, who have a good record of conduct.
Master Warrant Officer Ken Surges, CD presented third clasp 13 June 2019.
Captain Rob Wishnicki, CD presented second clasp 1 July 2019.
Bombardier Rob Stone, CD presented second clasp 1 July 2019.
Bombardier Tracy Gu, CD presented on 24 September 2019.
Captain James Koh, CD presented on 14 December 2019.
Captain Conway Hui, CD and Bombardier Tiffany Drew, CD presented their first clasps on 14 December 2019.
See more...
Remembrance Day 2019
This year's Remembrance Day was the 100th since the formation of the 15th Brigade CFA 0n 2 February 1920. It is doubtful if a salute had been fired on that day as the Brigade may not have received its complement of guns. Additionally, it appears that the firing of a Commemorative Salute on 11 November was started in 1968 to honour the 50th anniversary of the end of World War I. See more...
This year's Remembrance Day was the 100th since the formation of the 15th Brigade CFA 0n 2 February 1920. It is doubtful if a salute had been fired on that day as the Brigade may not have received its complement of guns. Additionally, it appears that the firing of a Commemorative Salute on 11 November was started in 1968 to honour the 50th anniversary of the end of World War I. See more...
Soldiers' Christmas Dinner
The Regiment brought another year to a close with a traditional Christmas Dinner. Presentations were made, Canadian Forces Decorations awarded and the regimental group photo was taken. See more here...
The Regiment brought another year to a close with a traditional Christmas Dinner. Presentations were made, Canadian Forces Decorations awarded and the regimental group photo was taken. See more here...
Vancouver Santa Claus Parade
The Band of the 15th Field Artillery Regiment, RCA, once again participated in this annual Santa Claus Parade in downtown Vancouver. Chilly weather but warm spirits. Photo by Gary Tse and Sam Maruyama.
The Band of the 15th Field Artillery Regiment, RCA, once again participated in this annual Santa Claus Parade in downtown Vancouver. Chilly weather but warm spirits. Photo by Gary Tse and Sam Maruyama.
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Yakima Live Fire Exercise
The 39 Canadian Brigade Group Public Affairs Team, #YourArmyinBC Productions, put together an excellent video featuring the two BC artillery regiments on exercise in Yakima. Check out "Ride Along with Royal Canadian Artillery". Second Lieutenant Leiland Lloyd MWO Heath Porritt |
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Kids' Christmas Party
Santa showed up at the Warrant Officers' and Sergeants' Mess and there was a bouncy castle on the parade square. |
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Tribute to the Canadian Forces
The BC Lions provided a Salute to Veterans and Military Valour 2019 night during the BC Lions vs. Calgary Stampeders football game on 2 November 2019. The Band played the national anthem, and participated in the half-time show with massed bands. (photos by Bdrs Cole and Tse) See more...
The BC Lions provided a Salute to Veterans and Military Valour 2019 night during the BC Lions vs. Calgary Stampeders football game on 2 November 2019. The Band played the national anthem, and participated in the half-time show with massed bands. (photos by Bdrs Cole and Tse) See more...
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The Sky's No Limit - Girls Fly Too - 5/6 Oct 2019
The 15th Field Artillery Regiment RCA participated in Abbotsford's annual The Sky's No Limit - Girls Fly Too event designed to inspire female future leaders in the areas of Aviation, Aerospace, Marine & Defence. |
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Canada Day
The Vancouver Gunners were busy throughout the Lower Mainland on Canada Day. There was the salute at Stanley Park with the Band performance and the 25 Pounder detachment on display. There was the support of the military demonstration at Fort Langley, BSM George Chow cutting the cake with the Minister of National Defence and the Honorary Colonel organizing tickets for the baseball game at Nat Bailey stadium! Check out the photos here! |
Video by Private Daniel Pereira
39 CBG Public Affairs |
Ex UNIFIED RESPONSE (2019)
Six members of the Light Urban Search and Rescue team attended , a disaster-response exercise run by the US Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) at the Muscatatuck Urban Training Facility, in Indiana. The team were invited to attend as part of Vancouver Fire and Rescue Service’s Heavy Urban Search and Rescue Task Force One (TF1). The scenario involved responding to a major earthquake which had caused significant structural damage. The facility included unique and realistic sites like a partially collapsed parkade, an underground subway station—complete with four cars—and many partially collapsed buildings.
Six members of the Light Urban Search and Rescue team attended , a disaster-response exercise run by the US Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) at the Muscatatuck Urban Training Facility, in Indiana. The team were invited to attend as part of Vancouver Fire and Rescue Service’s Heavy Urban Search and Rescue Task Force One (TF1). The scenario involved responding to a major earthquake which had caused significant structural damage. The facility included unique and realistic sites like a partially collapsed parkade, an underground subway station—complete with four cars—and many partially collapsed buildings.
2472 Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corps Annual Ceremonial Review
The Army Cadet Corps held their annual parade at Bessborough Armoury on 8 June 2019. A former Commanding Officer of the 15th Field Artillery Regiment, Major-General (Retired) Stuart McDonald was the Reviewing Officer. Captain Rob Wishnicki attended as the Commanding Officer's representative. Sergeant (Retired) Glenn Patterson proudly looked on as his grandson, Cadet Warrant Officer Aiden Patterson, acted as parade RSM.
The Army Cadet Corps held their annual parade at Bessborough Armoury on 8 June 2019. A former Commanding Officer of the 15th Field Artillery Regiment, Major-General (Retired) Stuart McDonald was the Reviewing Officer. Captain Rob Wishnicki attended as the Commanding Officer's representative. Sergeant (Retired) Glenn Patterson proudly looked on as his grandson, Cadet Warrant Officer Aiden Patterson, acted as parade RSM.
75th Anniversary D-Day
Several members of the Regiment, serving and retired, attended the D-Day ceremonies in France on the 75th Anniversary. These included Major Nick Watts, Honourary Lieutenant-Colonel Don Foster, Warrant Officer Class II (retired) George Chow and Major (Retired) Ian Newby. See more...
Several members of the Regiment, serving and retired, attended the D-Day ceremonies in France on the 75th Anniversary. These included Major Nick Watts, Honourary Lieutenant-Colonel Don Foster, Warrant Officer Class II (retired) George Chow and Major (Retired) Ian Newby. See more...
The 3rd Canadian Division Change of Command Ceremony
The 3rd Canadian Division Change of Command Ceremony (BGen Trevor Cadieu to BGen Steve Lacroix) was held in the Edmonton Garrison Officers’ Mess with the Commander of the Canadian Army, LGen Jean-Marc Lanthier, presiding. Immediately after the official signing of certificates, BGen Cadieu was promoted by General Lanthier to the rank of Major-General. At the conclusion of the ceremony, a reception was held for all guests in the mess
The 3rd Canadian Division Change of Command Ceremony (BGen Trevor Cadieu to BGen Steve Lacroix) was held in the Edmonton Garrison Officers’ Mess with the Commander of the Canadian Army, LGen Jean-Marc Lanthier, presiding. Immediately after the official signing of certificates, BGen Cadieu was promoted by General Lanthier to the rank of Major-General. At the conclusion of the ceremony, a reception was held for all guests in the mess
Honour Ranch
Honorary Colonel Allan DeGenova is also president of the Honour House Society which held the ceremonial opening of Honour Ranch on 5 October 2019. Honour House sends their thanks to all the men and women of the Canadian Armed Forces who gave up their Victoria Day long weekend to come and help at Honour Ranch in beautiful Ashcroft, BC!! "We very much appreciate the amazing support and the incredible amount of hard work that you all did. So much accomplished". See more ...
Honorary Colonel Allan DeGenova is also president of the Honour House Society which held the ceremonial opening of Honour Ranch on 5 October 2019. Honour House sends their thanks to all the men and women of the Canadian Armed Forces who gave up their Victoria Day long weekend to come and help at Honour Ranch in beautiful Ashcroft, BC!! "We very much appreciate the amazing support and the incredible amount of hard work that you all did. So much accomplished". See more ...
75th Anniversary of D-Day, June 6 1944
On 15 May Lieutenant-Colonel J. Pierre Lajoie CD, Commanding Officer, was presented with an engraved 25-pdr shell casing that had been recovered from the Falaise Gap, close to the former gun lines of the 12th Field Regiment, RCA. The occasion was the 75th anniversary of the D-Day landing in Normandy in which the 12th Fd participated, providing fire support for the advancing Canadian infantry. The sponsors of this presentation were those with family members in the 12th Field Regiment, RCA: Honorary Lieutenant-Colonel Don Foster, whose father Gunner Donald H. Foster was a signaller in the regiment, Sergeant [Retired] Ralph Webb, whose father Lieutenant-Colonel Roland Webb, DSO, was the 12th Field Regiment's CO, and Susan Moogk, a cousin of Captain Richard Le Sueur, MID, who was wounded while acting as a Forward Observation Officer in March 1945. The engraved shell casing will be on display, temporarily, in an exhibit case by the regimental museum's entrance.
On 15 May Lieutenant-Colonel J. Pierre Lajoie CD, Commanding Officer, was presented with an engraved 25-pdr shell casing that had been recovered from the Falaise Gap, close to the former gun lines of the 12th Field Regiment, RCA. The occasion was the 75th anniversary of the D-Day landing in Normandy in which the 12th Fd participated, providing fire support for the advancing Canadian infantry. The sponsors of this presentation were those with family members in the 12th Field Regiment, RCA: Honorary Lieutenant-Colonel Don Foster, whose father Gunner Donald H. Foster was a signaller in the regiment, Sergeant [Retired] Ralph Webb, whose father Lieutenant-Colonel Roland Webb, DSO, was the 12th Field Regiment's CO, and Susan Moogk, a cousin of Captain Richard Le Sueur, MID, who was wounded while acting as a Forward Observation Officer in March 1945. The engraved shell casing will be on display, temporarily, in an exhibit case by the regimental museum's entrance.
Blue Berets
15th Field Artillery Regiment RCA officially changed berets from Army Green to Army Blue on 15 May 2019. See more....
15th Field Artillery Regiment RCA officially changed berets from Army Green to Army Blue on 15 May 2019. See more....
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CFB Wainwright
Honoraries from 39 Canadian Brigade Group visited CFB Wainwright during Ex Maple Resolve. Honorary Colonel Al DeGenova and Honorary Lieutenant Colonel Don Foster viewed the Combat Team Attack on a built up area. |
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Ex Van Slam
Soldiers from 15th Field Artillery Regiment RCA and members of Vancouver's Urban Search and Rescue team at work on a simulated bridge collapse on Exercise Van Slam. The exercise focussed on Light Urban Search and Rescue training and brought together multiple agencies including the Canadian Armed Forces, Vancouver Urban Search and Rescue, Vancouver Police Department, and various local fire and rescue teams. See more ...
Soldiers from 15th Field Artillery Regiment RCA and members of Vancouver's Urban Search and Rescue team at work on a simulated bridge collapse on Exercise Van Slam. The exercise focussed on Light Urban Search and Rescue training and brought together multiple agencies including the Canadian Armed Forces, Vancouver Urban Search and Rescue, Vancouver Police Department, and various local fire and rescue teams. See more ...
BC Military Gala
Another very successful BC Army Gala on Saturday, 11 May at the Sheraton Wall Centre in Vancouver.
See more...
Another very successful BC Army Gala on Saturday, 11 May at the Sheraton Wall Centre in Vancouver.
See more...
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Regimental Sergeants Major Photos
The RSM's Photo Wall has begun their next phase which is the actual placement of the sponsored photos on the wall. |
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Annual Military Dinner - April 27
Honorary Lieutenant-Colonel Don Foster attended a great evening at the annual Vancouver Military Dinner held at The Vancouver Club with good friend and colleague Brigadier General Trevor Cadieu, Commander of 3 Canadian Division |
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Kwantlen Polytechnic University
The Regimental Band joined the talented KPU Wind Symphony to play the first set of their Spring concert at the KPU Music Department, Kwantlen Polytechnic University on 29 March 2019. See more...
The Regimental Band joined the talented KPU Wind Symphony to play the first set of their Spring concert at the KPU Music Department, Kwantlen Polytechnic University on 29 March 2019. See more...
Sergeant Ken Keene CD
Sergeant Ken Keene heads off on the next phase of his adventure in the Canadian Armed Forces as he remusters to Air Traffic Controller with the Royal Canadian Air Force. Of course - Once a Gunner, always a Gunner.
We're sure that Sergeant Keene has agreed to keep us posted on his ongoing adventure as he dons the light blue uniform. See more...
Sergeant Ken Keene heads off on the next phase of his adventure in the Canadian Armed Forces as he remusters to Air Traffic Controller with the Royal Canadian Air Force. Of course - Once a Gunner, always a Gunner.
We're sure that Sergeant Keene has agreed to keep us posted on his ongoing adventure as he dons the light blue uniform. See more...
Lunch with The Honourable Romeo Dallaire
One of the more famous Canadian Gunners dropp ed by the Officers' Mess for lunch and a tour of the Museum. He also had a chance to sit down and hear the great story about the Honour Ranch as well as trying out one of their signature toques. See more...
One of the more famous Canadian Gunners dropp ed by the Officers' Mess for lunch and a tour of the Museum. He also had a chance to sit down and hear the great story about the Honour Ranch as well as trying out one of their signature toques. See more...
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Honorary Colonel of the Army visit
Honorary Colonel Alan DeGenova attended a brunch at the Hotel Georgia in Vancouver for visiting Honorary Colonel of the Canadian Army, Paul Hindo. Great discussions with Honoraries of Lower Mainland Units and CFLC representatives National Chair Scott Shepherd, BC Chair Derral Moriyama, RLO Colonel Scott Raesler and BC Chair of Canada Company George Salamis. |
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Regimental 100th Birthday
The invitations are starting to roll out for our 100th Birthday to be held next year! |
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Royal Westminster Regiment Annual Dinner
Honorary Lieutenant-Colonel Don Foster attends the dinner with a mob of Honoraries. Pictured here with the Commanding Officer Royal Westminster Regiment, Lieutenant-Colonel Chuck MacKinnon, special guest Major-General (ret'd) Dave Fraser and the 39 CBG Commander Colonel Paul Ursich. |
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Ottawa Visitor
Former Sergeant Graig Halpin (now Major AJAG for Intel and Info Ops) was in town for a visit. Captain Rob Wishnicki, Bombardier (Ret'd) David Jeff's and Warrant Officer (Ret'd) Jason Street met up with him at Brown's Social House. I'm sure there were great stories and great lies passed aroundf the table. We need to flash visits from former members up on Facebook. You never know who might show up! |
Orion 1-1 Launch
Great beer, great food, great music and a great cause! What more could a person want? More of the story to follow. See more photos here...
Great beer, great food, great music and a great cause! What more could a person want? More of the story to follow. See more photos here...
Basic Military Qualification Course 0852
Captain George Dempsey was the Course Officer for the BMQ course held at Bessborough Armoury. The photographer, Bombardier Albert Law is working at 39 Brigade HQ.
Captain George Dempsey was the Course Officer for the BMQ course held at Bessborough Armoury. The photographer, Bombardier Albert Law is working at 39 Brigade HQ.
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Honour House
"A very big thank you to the command team members from 39 Canadian Brigade Group who stepped up to take the #HonourToque challenge this weekend!! Honour House Society President, Hon. Col. Allan DeGenova presented Honour Toques to Military personnel during the official opening of the new armoury for 44 Engineer Squadron in Cranbrook, BC. Amazing support from our men and women in uniform!!" Honour House Facebook page |
New Year's Day Levee
The excellent breakfast at Frankie's set a new record for attendance. This was followed by the Warrant Officers' and Sergeants' Mess hosting the Officers for this annual event. Honorary Lieutenant-Colonel Don Foster joined a party of Honoraries and toured the other Messes in the Lower Mainland.
The excellent breakfast at Frankie's set a new record for attendance. This was followed by the Warrant Officers' and Sergeants' Mess hosting the Officers for this annual event. Honorary Lieutenant-Colonel Don Foster joined a party of Honoraries and toured the other Messes in the Lower Mainland.
Eleven West
The residential tower recently constructed beside Bessborough Armoury is featured in the linked on-line article from the Vancouver Sun. Eleven West If we coud raise $3 million we could be a complete floor as a Regimental B&B. Eleven West - Nadeau
The residential tower recently constructed beside Bessborough Armoury is featured in the linked on-line article from the Vancouver Sun. Eleven West If we coud raise $3 million we could be a complete floor as a Regimental B&B. Eleven West - Nadeau
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Former members
Former Lieutenant Rob Tyler has done well in his Air Force career. The latest announcement has him taking over command of 450 Tactical Helicopter Squadron in 2020. |
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In The Navy
Lieutenant(N) Haupi Tombing joined 15th Field Artillery Regiment, RCA as our padre in March of 2013. He was with us until component transferring to the Navy in January 2015. Check out what he's been up to in the attached Hope in the Shadows magazine. 
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Officers' Mess
Saint Barbara's Special Guest Night
The Officers' Mess hosted a Special Guest Night in honour of our patron saint.
The Officers' Mess hosted a Special Guest Night in honour of our patron saint.
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Commanding Officers' Christmas Tea
A substantial crowd was in attendance for the 85th Annual Tea. |
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Officers' Mess Caterers
Shan Lum and Benson Lum were thanked for their continued service to the members of the Officers' Mess. |
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Royal United Services Institute (RUSI)
The Royal United Services Institute held their annual dinner in the Officers' Mess on 28 September 2019. |
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Warrant Officers' and Sergeants' Mess
Mixed Dining In
The Mess held a Mixed Dining in with members bringing their significant others for a great evening at the Mess! The event was held on 27 April 2019 with many compliments provided to the PMC of the Dinner and the Committee. You know it's a success when members say, "We should do this more often!" See more...
The Mess held a Mixed Dining in with members bringing their significant others for a great evening at the Mess! The event was held on 27 April 2019 with many compliments provided to the PMC of the Dinner and the Committee. You know it's a success when members say, "We should do this more often!" See more...
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Annual Dinner
The Warrant Officers and Sergeants held their Annual Dinner on 26 Oct 2019. This provided an opportunity to dine out Sergeant Bruce Rae, CD. Those in attendance included: Sergeant Kyle Hodgson, Sergeant Yuriy Bolgak, Sergeant Michael Wong, Sergeant Eric Wong, Sergeant Kazue Maruyama, Warrant Officer Dwayne Nelson, Regimental Sergeant Major Chief Warrant OfficerRobert Garrett, Master Warrant Officer Heath Porritt, Master Warrant OfficerAngus Brady, Sergeant Bruce Rae (ret'd), Warrant Officer Adam Wierenga, Sergeant Yves-André Langlois, Warrant Officer Conrad Skuce, Sergeant Stephen Hilbich, Sergeant Clark Mikkola, Sergeant Brenda Woods and Sergeant Donato Calogero |
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Vancouver Artillery Association
Retirement - Life after the Regiment
Here's what some of our former memebrs are doing to occupy their time after they've turned in their kit! Ian Smith, Darren Kostinuk and Bill Kidd are working with Ian Newby at the Museum of Armed Forces with IanNewby. Check out the story in the Aldergrove Star.
Here's what some of our former memebrs are doing to occupy their time after they've turned in their kit! Ian Smith, Darren Kostinuk and Bill Kidd are working with Ian Newby at the Museum of Armed Forces with IanNewby. Check out the story in the Aldergrove Star.
Celebration of Life - Lieutenant-Colonel Dean Drysdale CD
The Vancouver Artillery Association supported the Celebration of Life for one of our former Commanding Officers by deploying the 25 Pounder and to the Langley Events Centre. All went well until the return to Bessborough Armoury when the front drive became disconnected. No injuries occurred and the equipment was safely towed home.
The Vancouver Artillery Association supported the Celebration of Life for one of our former Commanding Officers by deploying the 25 Pounder and to the Langley Events Centre. All went well until the return to Bessborough Armoury when the front drive became disconnected. No injuries occurred and the equipment was safely towed home.
Abbotsford Air Show
The Vancouver Artillery Association was at the Air Show alongside Ian Newby's collection. Thanks to Honorary Lieutenant-Colonel Don Foster, Bernard Rowe, Doug Loney, Art Gee and Andrew McRae for taking the time to display the 25 Pounder and FAT. See more photos here...
The Vancouver Artillery Association was at the Air Show alongside Ian Newby's collection. Thanks to Honorary Lieutenant-Colonel Don Foster, Bernard Rowe, Doug Loney, Art Gee and Andrew McRae for taking the time to display the 25 Pounder and FAT. See more photos here...
Abbotsford Agrifair
Doug Loney and Andrew MacRae manned the 25 pounder display at the Abbotsford Agrifair.
Doug Loney and Andrew MacRae manned the 25 pounder display at the Abbotsford Agrifair.
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Aldergrove Fair
The FAT and 25 Pounder were on display at the Aldergrove Fair thanks to the efforts of Bob Mugford, Doug Loney and Andrew MacRae. |
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Politics
Our association president, Leon Jensen, is taking another run at Parliament. You can drop him a line at [email protected] if you've got any suggestions on how the country should be managed. Or drop by his open house and offer him a hand to win the riding. It doesn't appear that we've ever had a member of the Regiment elected to Parliament. |
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BCR Association
Former Commanding Officer Jim Barrett is elected Vice President of the British Columbia Regimental Association. |
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Artillery Day 2019
The Vancouver Artillery Association deployed to the Westcoast Motorcycle Ride to Live on Sunday 26 May 2019 in support of the 15th Field Artillery Regiment RCA community relations campaign.
The 10th annual Ride to Live, supporting the fight against prostate cancer, started off at Trev Deeley’s Harley Davidson location on Boundary Road at 0930 hrs. Set up was to be in plavce by 0700 which meant a departure from Bessborough Armoury at 0600.
The original intent was for the 15th Field Arttillery Regiment to fire a blank round as a starting gun as they had done for many of the previous years. Unfortunately, the organizers ran afoul of of city hall bureaucracy and insurance requirements resulting in lack of approval prior to the event. As an alternate, the Regiment set up a 105mm C3 howitzer for display and the Vancouver Artillery Association joined them with the Museum’s Field Aryillery Tractor and 25 pounder. Harry Moon from Western Command joined the display with his 1942 Lynx Scout Car.
After the starting ceremony the 105 returned to the Armoury and the Association moved to Mountain View Cemetery and we searched the veterans’ sections for Gunner gravesites.
The Vancouver Artillery Association deployed to the Westcoast Motorcycle Ride to Live on Sunday 26 May 2019 in support of the 15th Field Artillery Regiment RCA community relations campaign.
The 10th annual Ride to Live, supporting the fight against prostate cancer, started off at Trev Deeley’s Harley Davidson location on Boundary Road at 0930 hrs. Set up was to be in plavce by 0700 which meant a departure from Bessborough Armoury at 0600.
The original intent was for the 15th Field Arttillery Regiment to fire a blank round as a starting gun as they had done for many of the previous years. Unfortunately, the organizers ran afoul of of city hall bureaucracy and insurance requirements resulting in lack of approval prior to the event. As an alternate, the Regiment set up a 105mm C3 howitzer for display and the Vancouver Artillery Association joined them with the Museum’s Field Aryillery Tractor and 25 pounder. Harry Moon from Western Command joined the display with his 1942 Lynx Scout Car.
After the starting ceremony the 105 returned to the Armoury and the Association moved to Mountain View Cemetery and we searched the veterans’ sections for Gunner gravesites.
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Lieutenant (Retired) George Lenis CD
A couple of photos of a former member, George Lenis, retired from the Guns but still flying the skies with Air Canada. |
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BC Heritage Award
The Vancouver Artillery Association and our detachment the 85VICS have been honoured with a BC Heritage Award for their work with Yorke Island. The award is presented under the Heritage Planning and Management category with an Honour for the Yorke Island Conservancy Heritage Conservation Plan and a Recognition for the BC Parks Cultural Heritage Handbook. Well done!
The Vancouver Artillery Association and our detachment the 85VICS have been honoured with a BC Heritage Award for their work with Yorke Island. The award is presented under the Heritage Planning and Management category with an Honour for the Yorke Island Conservancy Heritage Conservation Plan and a Recognition for the BC Parks Cultural Heritage Handbook. Well done!
D-Day Commemorations
On Friday, Veterans Affairs Canada launched a campaign to mark the 75th Anniversary of D-Day and the Battle of Normandy by sending a pair of combat boots on a cross-country journey. The ceremony was held in the main hall of Pacific Central Station in Vancouver, British Columbia. Honorary Lieutenant-Colonel Don Foster and Battery Sergeant Major George Chow were there. See more...
On Friday, Veterans Affairs Canada launched a campaign to mark the 75th Anniversary of D-Day and the Battle of Normandy by sending a pair of combat boots on a cross-country journey. The ceremony was held in the main hall of Pacific Central Station in Vancouver, British Columbia. Honorary Lieutenant-Colonel Don Foster and Battery Sergeant Major George Chow were there. See more...
18 Pounder Restoration
Frustrating night on March 20 as Bdr (ret'd) Vanderzalm worked on the elevation mechanism. There seems to be a lock that has frozen the elevation in a fixed place. Either that or the internal gears have rusted shut over all the years sitting out in the open in Wainwright. Pieces are being removed in a manner ensuring that no damage is caused to the fittings.
Frustrating night on March 20 as Bdr (ret'd) Vanderzalm worked on the elevation mechanism. There seems to be a lock that has frozen the elevation in a fixed place. Either that or the internal gears have rusted shut over all the years sitting out in the open in Wainwright. Pieces are being removed in a manner ensuring that no damage is caused to the fittings.
Yorke Island
BC Parks organized a very succesful Yorke Island public outreach event at Sayward BC from 1-2 February 2019. The event included partcipation from the Colonel Commandant of The Royal Regiment of Canadian Artillery, Brigadier-General James Selbie, the President of the Vancouver Artillery Association, Leon Jensen, and a large contingent of the 85 VICS. The Colonel Commandant recognized the efforts of Ross Keller, Hayley Datoo and Jim Spowart with the presentation of a Colonel Commandant's coin to each. See more...
BC Parks organized a very succesful Yorke Island public outreach event at Sayward BC from 1-2 February 2019. The event included partcipation from the Colonel Commandant of The Royal Regiment of Canadian Artillery, Brigadier-General James Selbie, the President of the Vancouver Artillery Association, Leon Jensen, and a large contingent of the 85 VICS. The Colonel Commandant recognized the efforts of Ross Keller, Hayley Datoo and Jim Spowart with the presentation of a Colonel Commandant's coin to each. See more...
British Columbia Magazine - Forgotten Yorke Island, History From The Second World War
Story by Michaela Ludwig, photos by Kevin Krogstad
A short story on Yorke Island, it's history and a link to our Vancouver Gunner's website. shared 245 times on Facebook as of 11 Jan 2020. Check out the story here.
Story by Michaela Ludwig, photos by Kevin Krogstad
A short story on Yorke Island, it's history and a link to our Vancouver Gunner's website. shared 245 times on Facebook as of 11 Jan 2020. Check out the story here.
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National War Memorial
I always try and make a point of paying my respects at the National War Memorial in Ottawa when I'm there. The term "Lest We Forget" seems somewhat more relevant when you stand in front of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. |
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Imperial War Museum
Master Warrant Officer (Ret'd) Jim Jacobson visited the Imperial War Museum in London and forward some photos of the Nery Gun. It's temporarily on exhibit while the Woolwich Artillery Museum continues their search for a new home. |
Obituaries
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Gunner Richard K. Caloren
80 years old. Born in Kimberly, British Columbia. Died in Kamloops, British Columbia. Survived by: wife, Joan Caloren of 58 years; son, Sean Caloren (Laurie); daughter, Kathleen Rae-Arthur (Steve); grandchildren Chelsea and Ryan Rae-Arthur; sister; Colleen Phillips (Jack); sister, Sheralyne Albert; and many nieces and nephews. Predeceased by: father, Kenneth Caloren; and mother, Vivian Warren (Arthur Warren). Richard joined the Canadian Armed Forces in 1955 where he worked as an MSE Equipment Operator while serving in the military. Richard moved to Holberg, BC in 1973 from Borden, Ontario. He had several postings in Canada with the CAF. Tours overseas including a 6 month posting in Egypt in 1977. After leaving the Forces in 1978 Richard worked for Western Forest Products until he retired in 1993 to Tofino, BC. Richard moved to Qualicom, BC in 2007. A Memorial will be held at Army, Navy & Air Force Vets, 177 Tranquille Rd, Kamloops, BC on February 23, 2019 at 10 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Kamloops BC SPCA. Condolences may be sent to the family at DrakeCremation.com Gunner Caloren was taken on strength in 15th Field Regiment, RCA on 15 October 1953 and released to join the Regular Force on 17 March 1955. |
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Lance Bombardier John “Jack” Douglas Cave
Jack was born in Vancouver to Frank and Mabel Cave and grew up ay Kitsilano Beach. He met Cora in Stanley Park at Lost Lagoon and married her in 1951. He said the grass still smolders where they met! Jack was a member of the Royal Canadian Artillery Reserves and played trumpet and saxophone in their band. He worked for Pilkington Glass as a journeyman glazer until he joined the Regina Fire Department in 1957. He was so proud of his nephew Mark for becoming a firefighter in Vancouver. Jack was also a Shriner with the WaWa Temple and played in the drum corps. Family was very important to him, and so was being a good upstanding community man. He proudly donated many pints of blood to the Red Cross. Jack was extremely outgoing, making friends everywhere he went. In the last few years he would always greet his care workers and fellow residents with a friendly, “Hello Toots.” See more... |
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Lieutenant-Colonel Dean Drysdale CD
Dec. 30, 1963 - Aug. 11, 2019 Lieutenant-Colonel (Ret'd) Dean Drysdale CD RCA, MBA, Ph.D., CGA-CPA Dean passed away at his home, surrounded by loving family and close friends. He died as he lived, courageously. Dean was a soldier, a professor, an elected official, an aspiring parliamentarian, and a successful venture capitalist. Dean served proudly in the Canadian Army Reserves, being commissioned as an artillery officer at the remarkable age of 17. He rose to the rank of Lieutenant-Colonel and commanding officer of his Vancouver regiment - the 15th Field Regiment, Royal Canadian Artillery. See more... |
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Kathleen Victoria Holt
The wife of Sergeant (Retired) Brian Holt passed away today, 23 December 2019, after courageously battling stage 4 ovarian cancer for the last 2 and a half years. "She fought hard the whole way through, and now she is at peace. My life has changed drastically from this day forward as I no longer have my right hand to guide me through life" Our hearts go out to Brian in this time of loss. |
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Thelma Marjorie Gayton, wife of the late LCol Douglas Gayton CD RCA
Not long past noon, at 1330 hrs, on Day 64 in VGH - where it all started in 1924, Mum found relief: to the end her feet were twitching as though on the dance floor with Dad. She missed her target of 13 January - 15 years absent Dad. See more... |
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Lieutenant-Colonel William Sydney Jackson CD
June 12, 1917 - January 22, 2019 Bill passed away peacefully on January 22, 2019 at Hollyburn House in West Vancouver. Predeceased in 2013 by Joan, his beloved wife of 72 years. Born in Calgary June 12, 1917, he lived in Summerland before moving to Vancouver. He is survived by daughters Pat and Lynn (Ken), grandchildren Jessica, Jeff, Brian and Kevin, great-granddaughter Hannah and many nieces and nephews. Bill was a 6 year World War II Veteran having served in Northwest Europe with the 1st Canadian Artillery Rocket Battery. In 1946 he rejoined in the Reserves as Adjutant, 15th Field Artillery Regiment retiring in 1959 as Lieutenant Colonel. See more... |
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Bombardier Graeme Mutton CD
Graeme passed away 28 October 2019 in Chilliwack General Hospital. He was taken on strength as a Gunner in 15th Field Artillery Regiment RCA on 11 February 1971 with previous service. Qualified Artilleryman Trade Qualification 1 on 22 May 1977, he was subsequently promoted Bombardier on 1 July 1977. Graeme served on an operational tour with the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force in the Golan Heights from March 1978 to November 1978. He was released on 12 February 1981. |
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Warrant Officer Joe P. Shortt CD
On November 18, 2019, Joseph (Joe) Patrick Shortt passed away unexpectedly. He was 52 years old. Born on May 15, 1967, Joe spent much of his adult life as a member of the Canadian Armed Forces in The Royal Regiment of Canadian Artillery, a proud Gunner. He served overseas with NATO in Bosnia and the United Nations Forces in Cyprus, as well as the 3rd Regiment Royal Canadian Horse Artillery, 2nd Regiment Royal Canadian Horse Artillery, 11th Field Artillery Regiment RCA, 15th Field Artillery Regiment RCA, and 4th Canadian Division Training Centre Meaford. See more ... |