15th Field Artillery Regiment
The Royal Regiment of Canadian Artillery
2024
The Royal Regiment of Canadian Artillery
2024
as at 3 January 2024
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
Commanding Officer - Lieutenant-Colonel Andrew Grieve CD
Regimental Sergeant Major - Chief Warrant Officer Heath Porritt CD
Honorary Colonel - Honorary Colonel Don Foster
Second in Command - Major Alex Haussman CD
Commanding Officer - Lieutenant-Colonel Andrew Grieve CD
Regimental Sergeant Major - Chief Warrant Officer Heath Porritt CD
Honorary Colonel - Honorary Colonel Don Foster
Second in Command - Major Alex Haussman CD
Personnel Readiness Verification (PRV) day - 8 Sep 2024
The PRV is an annual event to ensure unit personnel are administratively ready for another training year. It also provides an opportunity for a parade to congratulate summer course students and to announce recent promotions and appointments. ion |
Remembrance Day 2024
Plans are for the salute to take place at Hallelujah Point in Stanley Park. Please forward any photos and I'll post here.
Plans are for the salute to take place at Hallelujah Point in Stanley Park. Please forward any photos and I'll post here.
Canada Day 2024
21 Gun salute at Hallelujah Point with the Regiment and the Museum 25 Pounder plus the 155mm at the Aldergrove Legion . Check out the other photos here.
21 Gun salute at Hallelujah Point with the Regiment and the Museum 25 Pounder plus the 155mm at the Aldergrove Legion . Check out the other photos here.
Soldiers' Christmas Dinner 2024
The Regiment held their annual Christmas event which included the Regimental photo, awards and promotions. The Commanding Officer exchanged shirts with the youngest Gunner and the Regimental Sergeant Major exchanged shirts with senior Bombardier Martinez. Congratulations to all! More photos here.
The Regiment held their annual Christmas event which included the Regimental photo, awards and promotions. The Commanding Officer exchanged shirts with the youngest Gunner and the Regimental Sergeant Major exchanged shirts with senior Bombardier Martinez. Congratulations to all! More photos here.
Brigade Commander's Visit
On May 1st, 2024, Colonel Scott Raesler, Commander of 39 Canadian Brigade Group and Chief Warrant Officer Anthony Harris, Brigade Sergeant Major, paid a visit. They shared insight with the members of the Regiment on future plans for the Brigade, and presented Warrant Officer Melissa Sumpton with a Commander's Commendation for her exceptional work during last year's Op LENTUS! Congratulations Warrant Sumpton!
On May 1st, 2024, Colonel Scott Raesler, Commander of 39 Canadian Brigade Group and Chief Warrant Officer Anthony Harris, Brigade Sergeant Major, paid a visit. They shared insight with the members of the Regiment on future plans for the Brigade, and presented Warrant Officer Melissa Sumpton with a Commander's Commendation for her exceptional work during last year's Op LENTUS! Congratulations Warrant Sumpton!
Open House 2024
The Regiment held a very successful open house with about 200+ individuals dropping by Bessborough Armoury to say hello and find out more about the Regiment. There was a C3 set up, recruiting table, small arms table band quartet (or was it a sextet?) and the indirect fire trainer. In addition the Regimental Museum was open and the older guns were on display manned by volunteers from the Vancouver Artillery Association.
Check out the other photos here.
The Regiment held a very successful open house with about 200+ individuals dropping by Bessborough Armoury to say hello and find out more about the Regiment. There was a C3 set up, recruiting table, small arms table band quartet (or was it a sextet?) and the indirect fire trainer. In addition the Regimental Museum was open and the older guns were on display manned by volunteers from the Vancouver Artillery Association.
Check out the other photos here.
15th Field Gunners Hockey Club
The team hits the ice for the first time together! Here’s to more 15Fd Hockey to come in the future! There's a couple more photos on this page.
The team hits the ice for the first time together! Here’s to more 15Fd Hockey to come in the future! There's a couple more photos on this page.
2024 BC Military Gala
Another fancy gala held at the Wall Centre. The Military Ball originated in 1946 as a victory celebration to mark the end of World War II and has continued, uninterrupted, since. It began as a brainchild of the officers of the Vancouver Garrison to relive the euphoria of the time and to celebrate the return to families and friends. Much had changed during the six year period that Canada had been to war and many returning military personnel had not seen their spouses and children during that time. Former member Nathaniel Senff was thanked for his many years of support to the Gala. Photos are rather sparse at the moment. Looking forward to receiving more photos in the near future.
Another fancy gala held at the Wall Centre. The Military Ball originated in 1946 as a victory celebration to mark the end of World War II and has continued, uninterrupted, since. It began as a brainchild of the officers of the Vancouver Garrison to relive the euphoria of the time and to celebrate the return to families and friends. Much had changed during the six year period that Canada had been to war and many returning military personnel had not seen their spouses and children during that time. Former member Nathaniel Senff was thanked for his many years of support to the Gala. Photos are rather sparse at the moment. Looking forward to receiving more photos in the near future.
Concert For the Padre
The 15th Field Artillery Regiment Band performed at the Christ Church Cathedral on 17 February 2024.
The 15th Field Artillery Regiment Band performed at the Christ Church Cathedral on 17 February 2024.

Future Exercise Cougar Rage
Officers' Mess
Saint Barbara's Day Dinner - 2024
The Officers' Mess hosted another exceptional Saint Barbara's Day dinners. The band performed to its usual exceptionally high standard and the food was delicious. It was Steve's birthday and he not only received many birtday greetings, he also was presented with a regimental coin for his many years service to the Regiment. Honorary Colonel Don Foster received his appointment scroll and LCol Nick Watts received the casing from his last round. A silent auction was also held with more than $2,000.00 pledge to supporting the Regimental Society and the 15th Field Regiment Drone Club. Check out the other photos here.
The Officers' Mess hosted another exceptional Saint Barbara's Day dinners. The band performed to its usual exceptionally high standard and the food was delicious. It was Steve's birthday and he not only received many birtday greetings, he also was presented with a regimental coin for his many years service to the Regiment. Honorary Colonel Don Foster received his appointment scroll and LCol Nick Watts received the casing from his last round. A silent auction was also held with more than $2,000.00 pledge to supporting the Regimental Society and the 15th Field Regiment Drone Club. Check out the other photos here.
Wednesday Lunch - 13 March
Dr Andrea Lane:- RCN Strategic Policy - Hybrid Warfare and Information Operations
Professor Lane is a Defence Scientist with the Maritime Operational Research Team, providing operations research support to Maritime Forces Pacific in Esquimalt. She is part of a team of defence scientists who do deep dive research into defence topics of interest to commanders.
Dr Andrea Lane:- RCN Strategic Policy - Hybrid Warfare and Information Operations
Professor Lane is a Defence Scientist with the Maritime Operational Research Team, providing operations research support to Maritime Forces Pacific in Esquimalt. She is part of a team of defence scientists who do deep dive research into defence topics of interest to commanders.
Warrant Officers and Sergeants Mess

New Year's Levee and Breakfast
Many members, who attended last year, had taken the opportunity to travel in this second post COVID-19 year and were not in attendance hence the small turn out . To top it off, our chief coordinator, Sergeant Donato Calogero, tested positive to COVID-19 after a visit from some foreign friends and was unable to attend. He certainly look forward to a larger turnout in 2025!
Nice to see those that did turn out: Bdr (ret'd) Doug Butler, WO Conrad Skuce, Bdr Andy Law, Sgt Andrew Chan, Sgt Joseph Rozario and Capt (ret'd) Kevin Walker.
Many members, who attended last year, had taken the opportunity to travel in this second post COVID-19 year and were not in attendance hence the small turn out . To top it off, our chief coordinator, Sergeant Donato Calogero, tested positive to COVID-19 after a visit from some foreign friends and was unable to attend. He certainly look forward to a larger turnout in 2025!
Nice to see those that did turn out: Bdr (ret'd) Doug Butler, WO Conrad Skuce, Bdr Andy Law, Sgt Andrew Chan, Sgt Joseph Rozario and Capt (ret'd) Kevin Walker.

15th Field Artillery Regiment Museum and Archives
The Directorate of History and Heritage conucted an evaluation of the Regimental Museum. Thanks to John Redmond, Doug Loney and Andrew MacRae for participating.
The Directorate of History and Heritage conucted an evaluation of the Regimental Museum. Thanks to John Redmond, Doug Loney and Andrew MacRae for participating.
Vancouver Artillery Association
Royal Canadian Artillery Association Annual General Meeting - 18/19 October 2024
The President of the Vancouver Artillery Association, Leon Jensen, has turned over the presidency of the Royal Canadian Artillery Association to Colonel (ret) Stephane Boucher. Leon has accepted the role of Executive Director for the Association. The AGM featured the usual RCAA business plus workshops led by the Director Artillery which featured such topics as "Strategic Context – RCA Capabilities", "RCA Capabilities – Equipment and Structures" and "Structures and Reserve Force Integration". The workshops were open to all registered RCAA members and provided an opportunity for the Director to hear from all sides of the Regimental Family. Was your voice heard? Sign up or register with the RCAA and join the discussion.
The President of the Vancouver Artillery Association, Leon Jensen, has turned over the presidency of the Royal Canadian Artillery Association to Colonel (ret) Stephane Boucher. Leon has accepted the role of Executive Director for the Association. The AGM featured the usual RCAA business plus workshops led by the Director Artillery which featured such topics as "Strategic Context – RCA Capabilities", "RCA Capabilities – Equipment and Structures" and "Structures and Reserve Force Integration". The workshops were open to all registered RCAA members and provided an opportunity for the Director to hear from all sides of the Regimental Family. Was your voice heard? Sign up or register with the RCAA and join the discussion.
Prince Rupert Coastal Artillery Battery
During a recent trip up north, I stopped by the Prince Rupert Battery to check out the possibility of gaining access. Unfortunately, the site is fenced off and has been turned into a gravel pit. Google Maps indicates that the structures are still there but little infrastructure could be seen from the road. It appears that pre-planning is required prior to another trip to Prince Rupert.
During a recent trip up north, I stopped by the Prince Rupert Battery to check out the possibility of gaining access. Unfortunately, the site is fenced off and has been turned into a gravel pit. Google Maps indicates that the structures are still there but little infrastructure could be seen from the road. It appears that pre-planning is required prior to another trip to Prince Rupert.
Canoe River Tragedy
A 17-car train filled with 23 officers and 315 men of the 2nd Regiment, Royal Canadian Horse Artillery headed from the Prairies to the coast to embark for Korea on 21 November 1950. At mid-morning, they approached Canoe River and began a long, winding curve ascent. From the opposite direction, the 11-car Vancouver-Montreal passenger train entered the same loop on a descent.
The locomotives met head-on. The forward cars of the military train were thrown down an embankment and demolished . In just seconds, 17 of the Canadian Contingent to Korea, one as young as 17, most of them in their early 20s, were dead or dying and 60 more injured. Four soldiers' bodies were never recovered. The four CN Rail crew members were also killed and there were many injured gunners (33 non-walking and nine walking). There were no casualties to passengers on the East bound train.
The event is remembered through a memorial on CN property beside the railway tracks, the BC commemorative sign beside the highway and a cairn at the Valemount Royal Canadian Legion. The names of the 17 soldiers are recorded in the RCAA Lest We Forget project.
A 17-car train filled with 23 officers and 315 men of the 2nd Regiment, Royal Canadian Horse Artillery headed from the Prairies to the coast to embark for Korea on 21 November 1950. At mid-morning, they approached Canoe River and began a long, winding curve ascent. From the opposite direction, the 11-car Vancouver-Montreal passenger train entered the same loop on a descent.
The locomotives met head-on. The forward cars of the military train were thrown down an embankment and demolished . In just seconds, 17 of the Canadian Contingent to Korea, one as young as 17, most of them in their early 20s, were dead or dying and 60 more injured. Four soldiers' bodies were never recovered. The four CN Rail crew members were also killed and there were many injured gunners (33 non-walking and nine walking). There were no casualties to passengers on the East bound train.
The event is remembered through a memorial on CN property beside the railway tracks, the BC commemorative sign beside the highway and a cairn at the Valemount Royal Canadian Legion. The names of the 17 soldiers are recorded in the RCAA Lest We Forget project.
Deuce and a Half Project
Ian Newby has been kind enough to allow us the use of some of his property in Aldergrove to work on the trucks. After some work hacking away some blackberry bushes and levelling off the ground somewhat, we laid down some landscape fabric and 12 tons of crushed grave. Unfortunately, the gravel truck driver was not able to spread the load very far so we had to shovel it from the two large piles. Final product looks good! Thanks Ian!
Anyone interested in bending wrenches? Send me an email [email protected]
Ian Newby has been kind enough to allow us the use of some of his property in Aldergrove to work on the trucks. After some work hacking away some blackberry bushes and levelling off the ground somewhat, we laid down some landscape fabric and 12 tons of crushed grave. Unfortunately, the gravel truck driver was not able to spread the load very far so we had to shovel it from the two large piles. Final product looks good! Thanks Ian!
Anyone interested in bending wrenches? Send me an email [email protected]
Yorke island August 2024
The Vancouver Artillery Association planned to be on Yorke Island from Tuesday, 6 August until Friday, 30 August 2024. Unfortunately, there were no volunteers available so we have had to postpone until a future time.
There will lots of room available for anyone that wants to come along either for exploring Yorke Island's artillery heritage, assisting in the construction of a new outhouse, assisting in the Master Gunner's Residence project, fishing in the waters nearby or simply kicking back and relaxing. Check out the details here.
The Vancouver Artillery Association planned to be on Yorke Island from Tuesday, 6 August until Friday, 30 August 2024. Unfortunately, there were no volunteers available so we have had to postpone until a future time.
There will lots of room available for anyone that wants to come along either for exploring Yorke Island's artillery heritage, assisting in the construction of a new outhouse, assisting in the Master Gunner's Residence project, fishing in the waters nearby or simply kicking back and relaxing. Check out the details here.
Yorke Island
The 85Vics conducted their annual Yorke Island spring cleanup. Their volunteer work is really appreciated and does wonders in keeping Yorke Island going. The flag has a bit of a story this time around. Seems the President Vancouver Gunners forgot to lower the flag the last time he was on the island in August 2023. It's stood up to the winter weather quite nicely. Check out the other photos here.
The 85Vics conducted their annual Yorke Island spring cleanup. Their volunteer work is really appreciated and does wonders in keeping Yorke Island going. The flag has a bit of a story this time around. Seems the President Vancouver Gunners forgot to lower the flag the last time he was on the island in August 2023. It's stood up to the winter weather quite nicely. Check out the other photos here.
Abbotsford Air Show 2024
Another excellent show in Abbotsford coordinated by Western Command. There's the 155mm Howitzer from our Museum and quite a few Gunners with the TLAV. We'll have to try and get more artillery out next year. Check out the photos here.
Another excellent show in Abbotsford coordinated by Western Command. There's the 155mm Howitzer from our Museum and quite a few Gunners with the TLAV. We'll have to try and get more artillery out next year. Check out the photos here.
68 Bty 30'ish Year Campout Reunion
May 24 at 4 PM – May 26 at 12 PM - Harrison West - Camp Cove Campground
Anne Nikodem (former Bombardier Anne Edwards) and Terry Stratton (former Bombardier Terry Stratton) organized another 68 Battery camping reunion. There's a few photos posted but still waiting for more!
May 24 at 4 PM – May 26 at 12 PM - Harrison West - Camp Cove Campground
Anne Nikodem (former Bombardier Anne Edwards) and Terry Stratton (former Bombardier Terry Stratton) organized another 68 Battery camping reunion. There's a few photos posted but still waiting for more!
Rogers Pass Monument Guns
Came across some very disturbing photos showing the state of the guns, our colours, at Roger's Pass. The Royal Canadian Artillery Association has drafted letters to Parks Canada in the hopes that they can address the situation. Additional photos can be found here. |
Former Members
Former Honorary Colonel Al DeGenova
Congratulations to Honour House on the receipt of their new Land Rover Defender 130! I'm sure it will be put to good use on the Ranch! Some of those soldiers look familiar.
Congratulations to Honour House on the receipt of their new Land Rover Defender 130! I'm sure it will be put to good use on the Ranch! Some of those soldiers look familiar.

Warrant Officer Class II George Chow was remembered by Veterans Affairs with a commemorative banner hung at Vimy Ridge.

39 CBG posted an article on one of our former members - Chief Warrant Officer Clyde Roberts
February is Black History Month. It’s a time for us to celebrate and honour the many contributions that Black Canadians have made throughout our history to help make Canada the culturally diverse, compassionate, and prosperous nation that it is today. For the CAF, it’s an opportunity to learn more about the important achievements that our members have made, both within our armed forces and throughout the public service.
Chief Warrant Officer Clyde Roberts enrolled in the Canadian Armed Forces in Montreal, Quebec in 1988. Following his initial basic and artillery training, CWO Roberts became an active member of 2nd Field Regiment, Royal Canadian Artillery (2 RCA). From 1988 to 2007, he served the guns of 7 Fd Bty, 2 RCA and participated on battery and regimental exercises with his unit and 5ème Régiment d'artillerie légère du Canada (5 RALC). In addition, he held many instructor positions with 34 Canadian Brigade Group Battle School and support positions with Western Area Training Centre – CFB Shilo, and W Bty in the Artillery School in CFB Gagetown.
Chief Warrant Officer Roberts has academic credentials from Canadian and American universities.
He holds a Bachelor of Arts from Concordia University, Certificate Degree in Business from McGill University, a Master’s in Business Administration from Royal Roads University, studied accounting in University of British Columbia and holds a second graduate degree, a Master’s in Science from New York University. Chief Warrant Officer Roberts gained operational experience on a United Nations operation and within Canada. In 1996, he deployed at the rank of Sergeant with Batterie R, 5RALC on United Nations Mission in Haiti (UNSMIH). He also deployed on an OP LENTUS operation during the Quebec ice storm in 1988 and most recently on OP LASER. In 2007 Chief Warrant Officer Roberts transferred to 15 Field Artillery Regiment, Royal Canadian Artillery.
He filled positions as Command Post Technician Warrant Officer, Troop Sergeant Major and 31 Bty, Battery Sergeant Major and Battery Sergeant Major of Headquarters and Services Battery. In 2008 to 2011, he completed a position with Canadian Forces Recruiting Centre (CFRC) in Vancouver. During this period, he was the Senior Recruiter and in charge of employment equity for British Columbia.
In 2011, he transferred to 39 Canadian Brigade Group Headquarters. He served in several positions throughout his time at the headquarters including G3 Tasks, G3 Individual Training, G4 Ops 2, and Headquarters Sergeant Major. In 2016, Chief Warrant Officer Roberts continued his civilian career has a human resource professional. Currently, he works as a Senior Human Resource Business Partner supporting business operations in Canada and teams in the Philippines, Ireland, and the United Kingdom for a US technology company.
In 2019, Chief Warrant Officer Roberts transferred to 5 Field (BC), Royal Canadian Artillery (RCA) in the position of Headquarters and Services Battery Sergeant Major. In 2020, he was promoted to his current rank, and from 2020 until 2023 he was appointed the Regimental Sergeant Major. Currently, he is serving as a Regional Chief Warrant Officer in Director of Employer Support Programs.
“Serving as the RSM for 5th (BC) Field Artillery Regiment, RCA was a profound honour,” says Chief Warrant Officer Roberts.
“It was an honour every day to work with both officers and Non-Commissioned Members (NCMs). Our accomplishments stemmed from the past efforts of those who served before us and steers the unit's future. It demanded unwavering dedication, integrity, and a profound sense of duty to Canada, the unit, and its soldiers.
February is Black History Month. It’s a time for us to celebrate and honour the many contributions that Black Canadians have made throughout our history to help make Canada the culturally diverse, compassionate, and prosperous nation that it is today. For the CAF, it’s an opportunity to learn more about the important achievements that our members have made, both within our armed forces and throughout the public service.
Chief Warrant Officer Clyde Roberts enrolled in the Canadian Armed Forces in Montreal, Quebec in 1988. Following his initial basic and artillery training, CWO Roberts became an active member of 2nd Field Regiment, Royal Canadian Artillery (2 RCA). From 1988 to 2007, he served the guns of 7 Fd Bty, 2 RCA and participated on battery and regimental exercises with his unit and 5ème Régiment d'artillerie légère du Canada (5 RALC). In addition, he held many instructor positions with 34 Canadian Brigade Group Battle School and support positions with Western Area Training Centre – CFB Shilo, and W Bty in the Artillery School in CFB Gagetown.
Chief Warrant Officer Roberts has academic credentials from Canadian and American universities.
He holds a Bachelor of Arts from Concordia University, Certificate Degree in Business from McGill University, a Master’s in Business Administration from Royal Roads University, studied accounting in University of British Columbia and holds a second graduate degree, a Master’s in Science from New York University. Chief Warrant Officer Roberts gained operational experience on a United Nations operation and within Canada. In 1996, he deployed at the rank of Sergeant with Batterie R, 5RALC on United Nations Mission in Haiti (UNSMIH). He also deployed on an OP LENTUS operation during the Quebec ice storm in 1988 and most recently on OP LASER. In 2007 Chief Warrant Officer Roberts transferred to 15 Field Artillery Regiment, Royal Canadian Artillery.
He filled positions as Command Post Technician Warrant Officer, Troop Sergeant Major and 31 Bty, Battery Sergeant Major and Battery Sergeant Major of Headquarters and Services Battery. In 2008 to 2011, he completed a position with Canadian Forces Recruiting Centre (CFRC) in Vancouver. During this period, he was the Senior Recruiter and in charge of employment equity for British Columbia.
In 2011, he transferred to 39 Canadian Brigade Group Headquarters. He served in several positions throughout his time at the headquarters including G3 Tasks, G3 Individual Training, G4 Ops 2, and Headquarters Sergeant Major. In 2016, Chief Warrant Officer Roberts continued his civilian career has a human resource professional. Currently, he works as a Senior Human Resource Business Partner supporting business operations in Canada and teams in the Philippines, Ireland, and the United Kingdom for a US technology company.
In 2019, Chief Warrant Officer Roberts transferred to 5 Field (BC), Royal Canadian Artillery (RCA) in the position of Headquarters and Services Battery Sergeant Major. In 2020, he was promoted to his current rank, and from 2020 until 2023 he was appointed the Regimental Sergeant Major. Currently, he is serving as a Regional Chief Warrant Officer in Director of Employer Support Programs.
“Serving as the RSM for 5th (BC) Field Artillery Regiment, RCA was a profound honour,” says Chief Warrant Officer Roberts.
“It was an honour every day to work with both officers and Non-Commissioned Members (NCMs). Our accomplishments stemmed from the past efforts of those who served before us and steers the unit's future. It demanded unwavering dedication, integrity, and a profound sense of duty to Canada, the unit, and its soldiers.
Regimental Museum
The Cottingham family recently made a decision that the 15th Field Artillery Regiment Museum and Archives would be an appropriate location for their father's artillery artefacts. The sword is now on displayed in the Officers' sword rack, the medals have been placed in our medal collection and the commissioning scroll has been filed away in the archives. Check out the complete story here.
The Cottingham family recently made a decision that the 15th Field Artillery Regiment Museum and Archives would be an appropriate location for their father's artillery artefacts. The sword is now on displayed in the Officers' sword rack, the medals have been placed in our medal collection and the commissioning scroll has been filed away in the archives. Check out the complete story here.
Obituaries

Captain Doctor Francis Duncan Forbes
Born - 03/25/1932; Died- 08/19/2024
Dr. Francis Duncan Forbes, known to family and friends as Blackie or Grandpa Kiwi, passed away peacefully on August 19, at the age of 92 in Delta, with his daughter Susan by his side.
Born on March 25, 1932 in New Westminster, he is predeceased by his parents Duncan and Ellen (nee Peterson) Forbes. He is survived by his wife Thea, son Duncan (Cynthia, Paul and Thais), and daughters Karen (Andy and Dallas), Britta (Tyree) and Susan (Scott, Jade, Jesse and his sidekick Remy). Dr. Forbes lived most of his childhood years in logging camps in various places on Vancouver Island. The last of those being at Woss, north of Campbell River, where he would return to work during summer breaks from University. He also spent a lot of his youth with his maternal grandmother Emma ( a full blood member of the Salish People of the Pacific Northwest), who encouraged him to obtain his medical degree.
Graduating in 1950 from Duke of Connaught (New Westminster), he went on to receive a Medical Degree from the University of British Columbia in 1957. His career started as a resident with the Government of Newfoundland in St. Johns in 1958. He then became the Medical Officer with the Government of Canada in Europe from 1959 -1967, where he was stationed with the family in Holland, Germany, Denmark, Italy and Portugal. Moving back to Canada, he became the Zone Director with Northern Health and Welfare Canada in Vancouver from 1967-1981. In 1975 he received his Doctor of Public Health degree from the University of Toronto and then retired upon working as the Health Service Officer with the R.C.M.P. of Vancouver from 1981-1995. He also served continuously for the Canadian Forces (Primary Reserve) 15th field Artillery Regiment from 1977-1987.
Dr. Forbes loved to volunteer and one most notable stint was in 2000. At 68, he took part in the St. Roch II Voyage of Rediscovery to retrace the 1942 voyage across the Northwest Passage. A 22,000 nautical mile trip around North America, he served as Medical Officer, on board the CCGS Simon Fraser (the Canadian ice breaker). He was also a past member of the Gizeh Shriners and the Masons.
He lived a long and fulfilling life, enjoying gardening, travel, scuba diving, coin collecting and philately. Dr. Forbes will be deeply missed by family, friends, and all who knew him.
Born - 03/25/1932; Died- 08/19/2024
Dr. Francis Duncan Forbes, known to family and friends as Blackie or Grandpa Kiwi, passed away peacefully on August 19, at the age of 92 in Delta, with his daughter Susan by his side.
Born on March 25, 1932 in New Westminster, he is predeceased by his parents Duncan and Ellen (nee Peterson) Forbes. He is survived by his wife Thea, son Duncan (Cynthia, Paul and Thais), and daughters Karen (Andy and Dallas), Britta (Tyree) and Susan (Scott, Jade, Jesse and his sidekick Remy). Dr. Forbes lived most of his childhood years in logging camps in various places on Vancouver Island. The last of those being at Woss, north of Campbell River, where he would return to work during summer breaks from University. He also spent a lot of his youth with his maternal grandmother Emma ( a full blood member of the Salish People of the Pacific Northwest), who encouraged him to obtain his medical degree.
Graduating in 1950 from Duke of Connaught (New Westminster), he went on to receive a Medical Degree from the University of British Columbia in 1957. His career started as a resident with the Government of Newfoundland in St. Johns in 1958. He then became the Medical Officer with the Government of Canada in Europe from 1959 -1967, where he was stationed with the family in Holland, Germany, Denmark, Italy and Portugal. Moving back to Canada, he became the Zone Director with Northern Health and Welfare Canada in Vancouver from 1967-1981. In 1975 he received his Doctor of Public Health degree from the University of Toronto and then retired upon working as the Health Service Officer with the R.C.M.P. of Vancouver from 1981-1995. He also served continuously for the Canadian Forces (Primary Reserve) 15th field Artillery Regiment from 1977-1987.
Dr. Forbes loved to volunteer and one most notable stint was in 2000. At 68, he took part in the St. Roch II Voyage of Rediscovery to retrace the 1942 voyage across the Northwest Passage. A 22,000 nautical mile trip around North America, he served as Medical Officer, on board the CCGS Simon Fraser (the Canadian ice breaker). He was also a past member of the Gizeh Shriners and the Masons.
He lived a long and fulfilling life, enjoying gardening, travel, scuba diving, coin collecting and philately. Dr. Forbes will be deeply missed by family, friends, and all who knew him.

Warrant Officer Donald (Don) Bruce Gatward CD
August 11, 1958 – October 31, 2024
It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Don Gatward on 31 October, 2024, who died comfortably in his home after a long battle with cancer. Survived by wife Eun Young, brothers Bill and Dave, sister Susanne, and daughters Bianca and Aletha. He was loved by his family and friends.
Don was born on 11 August 1958 in Brantford, Ontario. During and after high school Don served in the reserve Army then transferred to the Regular Canadian Army in 1979. He served mostly in the Airborne and deployed on tours in the Middle East. After retiring as Warrant Officer from the Army in 1999, Don worked in many occupations including armoured car, logistics coordination in Fort McMurray, long haul truck driving, and security contracting in Afghanistan. Don and Eun Young enjoyed winter vacations in Bucerias and summer fishing trips to Ucuelet. Don was happiest hosting big family dinners with homemade preserves and wine.
We are thankful for the good friends and family that supported Don during his life especially towards the end. Especially Betty and Dennis Endersby, Pallative Care team from Ladysmith and the BC Cancer Foundation. Cremation has taken place. There will be a celebration of life at a
later date. Warrant Gatward served as the Regular Force Support staff from 1992 until 1996.
August 11, 1958 – October 31, 2024
It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Don Gatward on 31 October, 2024, who died comfortably in his home after a long battle with cancer. Survived by wife Eun Young, brothers Bill and Dave, sister Susanne, and daughters Bianca and Aletha. He was loved by his family and friends.
Don was born on 11 August 1958 in Brantford, Ontario. During and after high school Don served in the reserve Army then transferred to the Regular Canadian Army in 1979. He served mostly in the Airborne and deployed on tours in the Middle East. After retiring as Warrant Officer from the Army in 1999, Don worked in many occupations including armoured car, logistics coordination in Fort McMurray, long haul truck driving, and security contracting in Afghanistan. Don and Eun Young enjoyed winter vacations in Bucerias and summer fishing trips to Ucuelet. Don was happiest hosting big family dinners with homemade preserves and wine.
We are thankful for the good friends and family that supported Don during his life especially towards the end. Especially Betty and Dennis Endersby, Pallative Care team from Ladysmith and the BC Cancer Foundation. Cremation has taken place. There will be a celebration of life at a
later date. Warrant Gatward served as the Regular Force Support staff from 1992 until 1996.

Major Leonard John Surges CD PEng
2 August 1956, Vancouver, BC - 1 September 2024, Ottawa, ON
Leonard was the fourth child of Albert (Bud) and Evelyn (Sally Faulkner) Surges in a Vancouver, BC family of six children. A leader, he preceded his twin Lawrence by five minutes. They sang The Beatles’ “She Loves You,” at age 6, joined a church choir at 7, and Leonard later sang at St Francis of Assisi (Mississauga) then St Matthew’s Anglican Church (Ottawa) until he had a stroke in July.
Leonard was an excellent student and enrolled in Major Works, a gifted program for Grade 7. He attended a World Jamboree in Idaho in 1969 and eventually became a Queen’s Scout. At 10, he took up French horn, and discovered his muse. He played in a youth orchestra and in militia bands until he transferred to the Infantry Branch in 1980. In 1971, he and Lawrence toured Europe for six weeks with their high school band – a trip their mother Sally helped organize.
Like his eldest brother Keith, Leonard studied metallurgical engineering at the University of British Columbia; with brothers Lawrence and Ken and their band teacher, he played in the Band of the 15th Field Artillery Regiment, RCA(M) from 1976 to 1979 then in the Band of the 2nd Battalion, Royal New Brunswick Regiment (NS) until 1980.
Leonard began working at Brunswick Mining & Smelting in Bathurst NB in 1979 and earned a PEng designation. He worked on exchange with the Department of Energy, Mines and Resources from 1990 to 1992, then returned to Bathurst for four years.
After service as a Musician, he was an Infantryman, then an Infantry officer in the Royal New Brunswick Regiment and Cameron Highlanders of Ottawa. Leonard met Kathryn (Kathi) Racine, who was also a reserve officer, in 1986; they married in 1988, and Leonard became a devoted, loving husband and father to Alexander, Nicholas, and Jacqueline. He worked at Noranda (Falconbridge) headquarters in Toronto from 1996 before joining the federal Public Service in 2005 at an Executive level. He’ll be greatly missed by colleagues wherever he went or served and by his St Matthew’s Anglican Church family and choir.
Predeceased by parents Albert (Bud) and Evelyn (Sally), Leonard is survived by his wife of 36 years, Kathi, and children Alex, Nick, and Jacquie (Ross Arial), siblings Keith (Louisa Fok), Phyllis, Sally Jean, Lawrence (Hilary Mackey), and Ken (Randall Chong), and many nieces, nephews, and in-laws.
A memorial visitation will be held at the Westboro Chapel of Tubman Funeral Homes, 403 Richmond Road (at Roosevelt), ON, on Wednesday, September 4th from 2-4 & 7-9 p.m.
His life well-lived will then be celebrated at St Matthew’s Anglican Church on Saturday, November 16, 2024, and his ashes will be interred in a private ceremony at the National Military Cemetery at Beechwood.
Leonard supported many charities. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating in his memory to one of:
Heart&Stroke
OrKidStra
Plan Canada International
Youth Services Bureau of Ottawa Charitable Foundation
2 August 1956, Vancouver, BC - 1 September 2024, Ottawa, ON
Leonard was the fourth child of Albert (Bud) and Evelyn (Sally Faulkner) Surges in a Vancouver, BC family of six children. A leader, he preceded his twin Lawrence by five minutes. They sang The Beatles’ “She Loves You,” at age 6, joined a church choir at 7, and Leonard later sang at St Francis of Assisi (Mississauga) then St Matthew’s Anglican Church (Ottawa) until he had a stroke in July.
Leonard was an excellent student and enrolled in Major Works, a gifted program for Grade 7. He attended a World Jamboree in Idaho in 1969 and eventually became a Queen’s Scout. At 10, he took up French horn, and discovered his muse. He played in a youth orchestra and in militia bands until he transferred to the Infantry Branch in 1980. In 1971, he and Lawrence toured Europe for six weeks with their high school band – a trip their mother Sally helped organize.
Like his eldest brother Keith, Leonard studied metallurgical engineering at the University of British Columbia; with brothers Lawrence and Ken and their band teacher, he played in the Band of the 15th Field Artillery Regiment, RCA(M) from 1976 to 1979 then in the Band of the 2nd Battalion, Royal New Brunswick Regiment (NS) until 1980.
Leonard began working at Brunswick Mining & Smelting in Bathurst NB in 1979 and earned a PEng designation. He worked on exchange with the Department of Energy, Mines and Resources from 1990 to 1992, then returned to Bathurst for four years.
After service as a Musician, he was an Infantryman, then an Infantry officer in the Royal New Brunswick Regiment and Cameron Highlanders of Ottawa. Leonard met Kathryn (Kathi) Racine, who was also a reserve officer, in 1986; they married in 1988, and Leonard became a devoted, loving husband and father to Alexander, Nicholas, and Jacqueline. He worked at Noranda (Falconbridge) headquarters in Toronto from 1996 before joining the federal Public Service in 2005 at an Executive level. He’ll be greatly missed by colleagues wherever he went or served and by his St Matthew’s Anglican Church family and choir.
Predeceased by parents Albert (Bud) and Evelyn (Sally), Leonard is survived by his wife of 36 years, Kathi, and children Alex, Nick, and Jacquie (Ross Arial), siblings Keith (Louisa Fok), Phyllis, Sally Jean, Lawrence (Hilary Mackey), and Ken (Randall Chong), and many nieces, nephews, and in-laws.
A memorial visitation will be held at the Westboro Chapel of Tubman Funeral Homes, 403 Richmond Road (at Roosevelt), ON, on Wednesday, September 4th from 2-4 & 7-9 p.m.
His life well-lived will then be celebrated at St Matthew’s Anglican Church on Saturday, November 16, 2024, and his ashes will be interred in a private ceremony at the National Military Cemetery at Beechwood.
Leonard supported many charities. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating in his memory to one of:
Heart&Stroke
OrKidStra
Plan Canada International
Youth Services Bureau of Ottawa Charitable Foundation