Medals Parade 21 April 2001

Canadian Peacekeeping Service Medal
In 1988, the prestigious Nobel Peace Prize was awarded to United Nations Peacekeepers in recognition of their collective efforts in the cause of peace for more than fifty years. This inspired the creation of the Canadian Peacekeeping Service Medal (CPSM), the purpose of which is to recognize all Canadians, including serving and former members of the Canadian Forces, members of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and other police services, and Canadian civilians who contributed to peace on specific missions. The medal has taken some time to reach the presentation stage, but as with the creation of any major honour or award, the approval of this award involved consultation with a large number of interested individuals and groups.
The medal’s obverse features the three Canadian Peacekeeper figures that top the Peacekeeping monument in Ottawa. One is an unarmed United Nations Military Observer, holding a pair of binoculars. A second soldier, a woman, shoulders a radio, while the third stands guard with a rifle. Above them flies a dove, the international symbol of peace. This side of the medal also bears the inscriptions PEACEKEEPING and SERVICE DE LA PAIX, together with two maple leafs. The medal's reverse shows the cypher of Her Majesty the Queen on a maple leaf surrounded by two sprigs of laurel and the word CANADA.
The medal's ribbon consists of four colours: green, red, white and United Nations blue. The green represents volunteerism; the red and white are the colours of Canada’s flag; while the white and blue represents the colour of the United Nations flag, under whose auspices the majority of peacekeeping missions have taken place since 1947. The red and white carry additional meaning. White is associated with purity, and peacekeeping is one of mankind’s highest ideals. Red is symbolic of the blood shed by Canada’s 113 peacekeepers that have fallen in service to their country while on peacekeeping and observer missions.
Almost 125,000 Canadians have served in peacekeeping missions over the past 53 years, a record unsurpassed by any nation. This tradition "in the service of peace" continues today.
Parade Format
Military Parades have a long and deep tradition that began many centuries ago. The following is meant as a very basic guide to today's parade.
Forming up the unit - The Regimental Sergeant Major is responsible for the Dress, Drill and Deportment of the unit. He is bringing the unit onto parade as the first step towards being inspected by the Reviewing Officer.
Chain of Command - Once formed up by the Non-Commissioned Officers, the unit is turned over to the Second In Command. He accepts the unit from the RSM and then orders the remaining Officers on parade. Once completed he turns the parade over to the Commanding Officer.
Arrival of the Reviewing Officer – Please stand when the Reviewing officer arrives - he has arrived to inspect the unit and receives a General Salute from the parade. He then takes the time to inspect each rank of the parade with the CO, RSM and others accompanying him.
The March Past - the unit now demonstrates its skill at executing the various drill moves that were required in olden days to fight the battle. It includes a salute to the Reviewing Officer and we would again ask you to rise during the March Past.
The Awards – Once the March Past is complete the unit returns to its original configuration and lines itself up. It is now time for members to be recognized for their service and hard work by their peers and supervisors. While some speeches are made these are kept to a minimum.
The Second March Past - After the awards the Second in Command marches the Regiment past again. This symbolizes that he has now been handed the responsibility for the Regiment as the present CO is departing. He has stood down as the Commanding Officer. We would again ask you to stand during the March Past.
The Advance - On completion of this march past the unit advances in review Order and provides a final salute to the Reviewing Officer who departs with the past CO. Again we would ask you to stand.
The Dismissal - the Second in Command then dismisses the Officers and turns the parade back over to the RSM.
MISSIONS
UNEF United Nations Emergency Force
October 1973 - July 1979
Established in October 1973 to supervise the cease-fire between Egyptian and Israeli forces and, following the conclusion of the agreements of I 8 January 1974 and 4 September 1975, to supervise the redeployment of Egyptian and Israeli forces and to control the buffer zones established under those agreements. The mandate for this Mission expired in July 1979 and the troops were withdrawn.
UNFICYP United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus
March 1964 - Present
UNFICYP was established through Security Council on the 4 March 1964, with the mandate to prevent a recurrence of fighting between the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities and to contribute to the maintenance and restoration of law and order and a return to normal conditions.
IJNFICYP became operational on 27 March 1964. Following the hostilities of 1974, the Security Council adopted a number of resolutions expanding the mandate of UNFICYP to include supervising a de facto ceasefire , which came into effect on 16 August 1974, and maintaining a buffer zone between the lines of the Cyprus National Guard and of the Turkish and Turkish Cypriot forces . In the absence of a political settlement of the Cyprus problem, UNFICYP continues its presence on the island.
UNPROFOR United Nations Protection Force
February 1992 - December 1995
UNPROFOR was established in February 1992 as an interim arrangement to create the conditions of peace and security required for the negotiation of an overall settlement of the Yugoslavian crisis. The role of the UN troops was to ensure that areas designated as "UN Protected Areas" (UNPA) became and remained demilitarized and that all persons residing in these areas were protected from fear of armed attack. The role of UN police monitors was to ensure that local police forces carried out their duties without discriminating against persons of any nationality or abusing any human rights. The force also assisted the humanitarian agencies of the UN in the return of all displaced persons who so desired.
There were several extensions of the original UNPROFOR covering the following purposes:
-reopening of the Sarajevo airport for humanitarian purposes;
-establishing a security zone encompassing Sarajevo and its airport;
-protection of convoys of released detainees in Bosnia and Herzegovina as requested by the International Committee of the Red Cross;
-monitoring arrangements for the complete withdrawal of the Yugoslavian Army from Croatia;
-the demilitarization of the Prevlaka peninsula and the removal of heavy weapons from neighbouring areas of Croatia and Montenegro;
-the demilitarization of the Prevlaka peninsula and the removal of heavy weapons from neighbouring areas of Croatia and Montenegro;
-monitoring compliance with the ban on military flights; and
-the establishment of the United Nations presence in the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia.
UNPROFOR also monitored the implementation of a cease-fire agreement requested by the Bosnian Government and Bosnian-Croat Forces in February 1994. In addition, UNPROFOR monitored cease-fire arrangements, negotiated between the Bosnian Government and Bosnian Serb forces, which became effective on 1 January 1995.
UNSCOM United Nations Special Commission (on the Destruction of Iraqi NBC Weapons and Facilities) Iraq
April 1991 – July 2000
On 3 April 1991, the United Nations Security Council established the terms and conditions for the formal cease-fire between Iraq and the coalition of Member States co-operating with Iraq. Section C of this resolution called for the elimination, under international supervision, of Iraq’s weapons of mass destruction and ballistic missiles with a range greater than 150 kilometers (km), together with related items and production facilities. It also called for measures to ensure that the acquisition and production of prohibited items were not resumed. The United Nations Special Commission (UNSCOM) was set up to implement the non-nuclear provisions of the resolution and to assist the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in the nuclear areas.
The Commission's mandate was the following:
-to carry out immediate on-site inspections of Iraq's biological, chemical and missile capabilities; -to take possession for destruction, removal or rendering harmless of all chemical and biological weapons and all stocks of agents and all related sub-systems and components and all research, development, support and manufacturing facilities;
-to supervise the destruction by Iraq of all its ballistic missiles with a range greater than 150 km and related major parts, and repair and production facilities; and
-to monitor and verify, Iraq's compliance with its undertaking not to use, develop, construct or acquire any of the items specified above.
The Commission was also requested to assist the Director General of the IAEA, which, was requested to undertake activities similar to those of the Commission but specifically in the nuclear field. Further, the Commission was entrusted to designate for inspection any additional site necessary for ensuring the fulfillment of the mandates given to the Commission and the IAEA.
IFOR NATO Implementation Force
December 1996 - June 1996
IFOR deployed in Bosnia six days after the signing in Paris of the Dayton Peace Accord on 14 December 1995. The peace agreement was reached after three weeks of intense negotiations at the Wright Patterson air base in Dayton, Ohio, in which representatives of the Allies were actively engaged, and followed three-and-a-half years of war.
IFOR had a one-year mandate to oversee military aspects of the peace agreement. This involved:
-bringing about and maintaining an end to hostilities;
-separating the armed forces of Bosnia’s two newly created entities, the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina and Republika Srpska;
-transferring territory between the two entities according to the peace agreement; and
- removing the parties’ forces and heavy weapons into approved storage areas.
These goals were achieved by June 1996 and lead to the subsequent creation of the NATO Sustainment Force SFOR.
SFOR NATO Stabilization Force
June 1996 - Present
NATO leads a 20,000-strong peacekeeping mission, or Stabilization Force SFOR to Bosnia and Herzegovina (Bosnia) that maintains the security environment necessary to enable the country to rebuild after the devastation of years of conflict. As of August 2000, SFOR comprises troops from 16 NATO member countries as well as from 13 Partner countries, including a 1,200-strong Russian contingent.
Preserving a secure environment remains SFOR's core mission, but as conditions within Bosnia have improved, SFOR has been able to assist civilian implementation of the peace agreement. The latest meeting in May 2000 of the Peace Implementation Council - the body of countries and international organizations overseeing the Bosnian peace process - identified three strategic areas to take the peace process forward, namely deepening economic reform, accelerating refugee returns, and fostering functional and democratically accountable common institutions.
Today, SFOR figures actively in efforts to help refugees and displaced persons return to their homes and is working on ways of reforming the Bosnian military - currently divided into three ethnically based, rival armies (Bosnian Muslim. Croat and Serb) - in such a way as to avert any prospect of renewed conflict.
SFOR has a UN mandate not just to maintain peace in Bosnia, but also, where necessary, to enforce it. As SFOR succeeded IFOR at the end of 1996, the mission's aims became more ambitious. ln addition to deterring a resumption of hostilities and promoting a climate in which the peace process could continue to move forward, they included providing an increased level of selective support, within SFOR's means and capabilities, to civilian organizations.
Recipients
Petty Officer 2nd Class Dennis Pistun, CD
PO2 Pistun joined the Canadian Forces on 4 June 1968. A Resource Management Support Clerk, he has served with all three environmental elements of the CF. ln April 1979 he deployed to lsmailia, Egypt as part of the United Nations Emergency Force Contingency Headquarters. As the Contingency Superintendent Clerk he was on the second last aircraft to leave the deployment.
Warrant Officer Don Labossiere, CD
Warrant Officer Labossiere joined the Militia in 1977 as a Private. He subsequently enrolled in the Regular Force in 1980 and served with 2 RCHA during its deployment to Cyprus in 1985. He also deployed with the Canadian Airborne Regiment in Somalia in 1992. He transferred to the Reserve force in Feb 2001 and is currently employed as the BSM 31 Battery. Don currently resides in Aldergrove, BC and is employed as a Correctional Officer with Corrections Canada.
Captain Kent Wickens, CD
Captain Wickens joined the Regiment in October 1982 as a Private prior to receiving his commission. He was employed as the Battery Commander 31 Bty until his recent transfer with his civilian occupation. Capt Wickens deployed to Cyprus with 1RCHA in July 1992 where he was employed as a Troop Commander with the 'Rural' Battery. The unit conducted routine patrols, observed the demarcation area and reported on all unauthorized activities by either side. Kent currently resides in Hamilton, ON and is employed as a Flight Officer with Kelowna Flightcraft.
Captain Brent Purcell, CD
Captain Purcell joined the Regular Army in 1986. He served with 1 RCHA until he took his release in 1996 to pursue a civilian career. Capt Purcell deployed to Cyprus with 1RCHA in July 1992 where he was employed as a Troop Commander with the 'City’ Battery. He subsequently reenrolled as a Captain with 15 RCA September 2000. Brent currently resides in Tsawwassen and is employed as a Air Traffic Controller with Nav Canada at the Vancouver International Airport.
Warrant Officer Chris Comars, CD
Warrant Officer Comars joined the Regular Force in 1980. He has served with 1RCHA, 2RCHA and the Artillery School. WO Comars deployed to Cyprus with 1RCHA in August 1992 where he was employed as the Ops 'B' Warrant with 'Operations' Battery. Chris currently resides in Duncan, BC and is employed as the Regular Force Support Staff to the Regiment as the Unit Training Assistant.
Warrant Officer Robert Wishnicki, CD
Warrant Officer Wishnicki joined the Regiment in April 1987.He is currently employed as the TSM for'A’ Troop 31 Battery. WO Wishnicki deployed to Cyprus with 1RCHA where he was employed as a Section 2lC / Line NCO with the ‘Rural’ Battery. Rob currently resides in Vancouver, BC and is employed as a Corrections Officer with Corrections Canada
.
Sergeant Ken Chiu, CD
Sergeant Chiu joined the Regiment in April 1986. Sgt Chiu deployed to Cyprus with 1RCHA in July 1992 where he was in the Rural Battery. Ken currently resides in Vancouver, BC and is at the unit full time in the Regimental Quarter Master Stores.
Sergeant Dave Urquhart, CD
Sergeant Urquhart joined the Regiment in January 1989.He is currently employed as a Detachment Commander in 'B'Troop, Aldergrove. Sgt Urquhart deployed to Cyprus with 1RCHA in July 1992 where he was employed in the 'Rural' Battery. Dave currently resides in Harrison Hot Springs and is employed as a Correctional Officer with Corrections Canada.
Master Bombardier Rick Tennant, CD
Master Bombardier Tennant joined the Regiment in January 1988. He is currently employed as a Detachment 2IC in 'A'Troop, Vancouver. MBdr Tennant deployed to Cyprus with 1RCHA in July 1992 where he was employed in the 'Rural' Battery. Rick currently resides in Vancouver.
Master Bombardier Oliver Younq, CD
Master Bombardier Young joined the Regiment in April 1986.He is currently employed as an Artillery Recce Technician. MBdr Young deployed to Cyprus with 1RCHA in July 1992 where he was employed in the 'Rural' Battery. 'OJ' currently resides in Vancouver.
Master Bombardier Anthonv Gee, CD
Master Bombardier Gee joined the Regiment in June 1989. He is currently employed as the Transport NCO for the Regiment. MBdr Gee deployed to Cyprus with 1RCHA in July 1992 where he was employed in the 'Rural' Battery. Tony currently resides in Vancouver.
Bombardier Lisa Abbott
Bombardier Abbott joined the Regiment in June 1990. She is currently employed on a fulltime call out with the Seaforth Highlanders of Canada. Bdr Abbott is qualified as an Artillery Forward Observation Technician and deployed to Cyprus with 1RCHA in July 1992 where she was employed in the ‘Rural’ Battery. Lisa currently resides in Vancouver.
Bombardier Shane Hall
Bombardier Hall joined the Regiment in January 1990. He is currently employed as a Gun Number on a 105mm detachment and is also qualified as an Artillery Communicator. Bdr Hall deployed to Cyprus with 1RCHA as a member of the 'Rural Battery.' Shane is currently employed as a Computer Systems lnstaller.
Sqt Drew Bartlett CD
Sergeant Bartlett joined the Regiment in January 1984. He is qualified detachment Commander on the 105mm Howitzer and is an Artillery Technician. He deployed to the Former Yugoslavia during UNPROFOR with 2 PPCLI. Drew is currently employed at 39 CBG Headquarters in the G3 training department.
Master Bombardier John Meszaros CD
Master Bombardier Meszaros joined the Regiment in May 1986. He is currently employed as a 2lC on a 105mm detachment. MBdr Meszaros is also qualified on the Self Propelled M109. He deployed to the Former Yugoslavia during UNPROFOR with 3PPCLI as a Light Machine Gunner.
Sqt Rob Garrett
Sergeant Garrett joined the Regiment in January 1990. He is currently employed as a Detachment Commander on a 105mm Howitzer. He deployed to the Former Yugoslavia in 1992 during UNPROFOR with 2PPCLI as a Rifleman / section medic. Rob is currently employed as a Correctional Officer with Corrections Canada.
Lieutenant-Colonel Leon Jensen, CD
LCol Jensen joined the Regiment in October 1970. He is the current Commanding Officer of the Regiment. LCol Jensen deployed to Bosnia during UNPROFOR as part of “OP Speaker” in September 1995 and remained during the transition to IFOR in 1996. He has been offered a fulltime callout as part of Land Force Reserve Restructure and will be moving to Ottawa at the end of April.
Captain Jean Pierre Dorris, CD
Captain Dorris joined the Regular Force in January 1988 as an Artillery Air Defense Officer. He is currently employed as the Regular Force Support Staff Officer for the Regiment. Capt Dorris deployed on several trips to lraq as part of UNSCOM during the Spring of 1996. JP currently resides in Vancouver.
Master Bombardier James Perkins
Master Bombardier Perkins joined the Regiment in May 1993. He is currently employed as a Detachment 2IC with 'B'Troop, Aldergrove. MBdr Perkins deployed to Bosnia with 2PPCLI in September 1996 where he was employed as a section member. James currently resides in Abbotsford and is employed as a Carpenter.
Master Bombardier Darrell Erickson
Master Bombardier Erickson joined the Regiment in December 1992. He is currently employed as an Artillery Forward Observation Technician. MBdr Erickson deployed to Bosnia with 2PPCLI in September 1996 where he was employed as a section member. Darrell currently resides in Abbotsford and is employed with Corrections Canada.
Bombardier Tymothy Spruston
Bombardier Spruston joined the Regiment in February 1996. He is currently employed as an Artillery Communicator in 'A' Troop. Bdr Spruston deployed to Bosnia with 2PPCLI in February 2000 where he was employed as a driver. Tym currently resides in Vancouver and is employed as a Carpenter.
Bombardier William Martinez
Bombardier Martinez joined the Regiment in 1990. He is currently employed as a member of a 105mm howitzer detachment in ‘A’ Troop. Bdr Martinez deployed to Bosnia with 2PPCLI in February 2000 where he was employed with the Company Quartermaster Sergeant. William currently resides in Vancouver and is employed as a courier.
Lieutenant Don Lamb
Lieutenant Lamb originally joined the Regular Force as an Aircraft Maintainer. He subsequently took his release and joined the Regiment as an Officer in July 1989. Lt Lamb deployed to Bosnia with A Bty 1RCHA in March 2000 where he was employed as the Camp Admin Officer in Tomislavgrad, Bosnia. Don currently resides in Vancouver and is awaiting a transfer to the Regular Force as an Artillery Officer.
Bombardier Craig Burridge
Bombardier Burridge joined the Regiment in November 1995. Bdr Burridge deployed to Bosnia with A Bty 1RCHA in March 2000 where he was employed on the LG1 howitzer. Craig currently resides in Coquitlam, is employed as a Service Advisor at MCL Motor Cars and is awaiting approval on his application to join the Delta Police Force.
Bombardier Chris Schulz
Bombardier Schulz joined the Regiment in November 1992. Bdr Schulz deployed to Bosnia with A Bty 1RCHA in March 2000 where he was employed as a driver in BHQ. Chris currently resides in Abbotsford. He is upgrading his education in the computer programming area.
Gunner Kendall Shaw
Gunner Shaw joined the Regiment in January 1999. Gnr Shaw deployed to Bosnia with A Bty 1RCHA in March 2000 where he was employed as a detachment member on the LG1 howitzer. Kendall currently resides in Vancouver and is waiting for approval on his application to join the Regular Force.
Gunner Goran Kurtaqic
Gunner Kurtagich joined the Regiment in April 1999. Gnr Kurtagich deployed to Bosnia with A Bty 1RCHA where he was employed as a detachment member on the LG1 howitzer and worked with the Battery Quartermaster Sergeant. He currently resides in Vancouver and is waiting for approval on his application to join the Regular Force.
Lieutenant Elizabeth Skuce
Lieutenant Skuce joined the Regiment as a gunner in. She subsequently received her commission as an Officer in July 1989. Lt Skuce deployed to Bosnia with 2PPCLI in September 2000 where she was employed as the Camp Administrative Officer in Camp Maple Leaf, Bosnia. Liz is currently moving to Winnipeg and will be transferring to 26th Field Artillery Regiment.
Bombardier Lani Jakimchuk
Bombardier Jakimchuk joined the Regiment in April 1999. Bdr Jakimchuk deployed to Bosnia with B Bty 1RCHA in September 2000 where she was employed as an Artillery Technician. She resides in Surrey and is currently on leave after the recent conclusion of her tour.
Reviewing Officer
Major-General (Retired) Stuart T. McDonald CMM. CD
Major-General McDonald was born in North Battleford, Saskatchewan, on 02 June 1943. He joined the Royal Canadian Sea Cadets in Regina and subsequently enlisted in the Militia in Ottawa in 1959; serving for two years as a Signalman in 3 Signals Regiment.
Major-General McDonald attended Victoria College in British Columbia and completed two years of artillery training as an Officer Cadet in the Canadian Officers Training Corps. In 1964 he was commissioned and served as a Lieutenant in 5 (BC) Field Battery, RCA, while completing his university studies.
In 1967 he began his teaching career in North Vancouver and transferred to 15th Field Artillery Regiment, RCA. During the 1976 Olympics he was attached to the Canadian Airborne Regiment in Montreal. In 1978 he was promoted Lieutenant-Colonel, and commanded 15th Field Artillery Regiment until 1981.
Major-General McDonald completed the United States Marine Corps Reserve Command and Staff Course in Quantico, Virginia (1978) and is also a graduate of Canada's National Defence College (1989-1990).
He was promoted Brigadier-General in 1990 and appointed Commander of Pacific Militia Area. From 1991 to 1994 he served in the Land Force Headquarters in Montreal, as Chief of Staff - Reserves and as the Reserve Advisor to the Commander of the Army. He retired from the Army Reserve in 1994.
Three years later, in 1997, he again became a Reservist when he was promoted to the rank of Major-General and appointed Chief of Reserves and Cadets at National Defence Headquarters in Ottawa. He served in that position until his second retirement in September, 2000. In 1999 he was invested as a Commander within the Order of Military Merit.
He has been a member of the Executive of the Royal Canadian Artillery Association for several years and served as President of the Association in 1987-1988. He is a Director of the Friends of the Canadian War Museum and a Trustee of the 15th Field Artillery Regiment Museum.
Major-General McDonald is married to the former Sally Clark of Victoria, British Columbia.
UNITS
15th Field Artillery Regiment
The Regiment is a part of the Reserve Component of Land Force Command. It falls under the commands of 39 Canadian Brigade Group at Jericho and Land Force Western Command in Edmonton.
The Regiment currently consists of a Headquarters element located at Bessborough Armoury with 'A' Troop, 31 Battery and 'B'Troop located at the Naval Station Aldergrove.
The Regiment is equipped with 105mm C3 howitzers and is currently awaiting the latest radio equipment to be installed in its fleet of vehicles.
The Band of the 15th Field Artillery Regiment
The Band continues to be one of the finest military bands in Canada. Due to realignments in the Reserve Band structure it is no longer an integral part of the Regiment. It is now considered the 39 CBG Band but continues its proud heritage of wearing the artillery uniform. The band is still located at Bessborough Armoury and has a very busy schedule of playing at events throughout thePacific North West.
111 Pegasus Royal Canadian Air Cadets
The Pegasus Air Cadets continue to support the youth of the local area with their program designed for youths ages 12 - 19. It provides informative instruction geared towards flying. It's a great place to make friends and gain a strong sense of self- confidence.
2472 Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corps
The Army Cadets are sponsored by 15th Field Regiment and provides another opportunity for youths aged 12 - 19. It is geared towards survival training, citizenship training and provides opportunities for range shooting and outdoor activities. An excellent place to increase youthful self-confidence through challenging experiences.
Recruiting
The 15th Field Artillery Regiment is looking for new members. Within the last 6 weeks we have had about 60 interested individuals attend our information sessions held on Thursday evenings.
Many of these have now started the application process and are hoping to begin their QL2 Recruit course this summer. There are still many vacancies available for R021 Artillery men! Any of the members of the unit can provide you with helpful information on what it takes to join the Regiment and what the training is all about.
Basically if you are (or know of someone who is)
16 or older;
Completed Grade 10;
Physically fit;
Able to pass the Canadian Forces Aptitude Test;
Medically fit; and
Looking for some part-time attention.
Then, we may have a spot for you. Talk to one of our recruiters or phone (604) 666-4371 for more information.
LIEUTENANT-COLONEL LEON JENSEN, CD
LCol Leon Jensen was born in Copenhagen, Denmark. He immigrated to Canada with his family in 1958 and was raised in the East Vancouver and South Delta areas of the Lower Mainland. He enrolled in the 15th Field Artillery Regiment in October 1970 at the Canadian Forces Station Ladner where the Boundary Bay Airport is currently located. LCol Jensen was promoted to Chief Warrant Officer and appointed Regimental Sergeant Major 16 years later. During that time he participated in flyover training with 1 RCHA in Germany during the REFORGER series of exercises in the early 70's, transferred to 20th Field Artillery Regiment in Edmonton from 1982 to 1983 and completed the Non Commissioned Leadership courses.
LCol Jensen was commissioned as a Captain in September 1988 and was transferred to the 11th Canadian Training Brigade at Jericho as the G1 for a year before returning to the Regiment as the Training Officer. He was appointed Battery Commander of 31 Bty in September 1992 until he was attached as a Watchkeeper/Liaison Officer at the British Headquarters Sector South West in Bosnia Hercegovina during the summer of 1995. On the arrival of the NATO lmplementation Force he was transferred to the Divisional Headquarters under command of Maj-General Michael Jackson. After his operational tour LCol Jensen was appointed G1 at BC Militia District Headquarters for a year and then returned to the Regiment as the Battery Commander of the Headquarters and Services Battery. LCol Jensen assumed command of the 15th Field Artillery Regiment in October 1998. During his service LCol Jensen has been awarded the Canadian Forces Decoration with clasp, the UNPROFOR medal, the NATO IFOR medal, the Canadian Peacekeeping Service Medal and received the FMC Achievement Award. He has accepted full time employment with the Land Force Command Headquarters in Ottawa as the Director Land Force Management 5 and will be involved in the Land Force Reserve Restructure Project.
MAJOR DEAN DRYSDALE, CD
Major Dean Drysdale was born in Victoria, BC and grew up in Langley, B.C. He enrolled in the 15th Field Regiment, RCA as an Officer Cadet in April 1981. He served in Les Fusiliers de Sherbrooke, Le Regiment de Hull, 30th Field Regiment, RCA and 20th Field Regiment, RCA. He was promoted Captain in 1985. Major Drysdale completed the Militia Command and Staff Course in 1989. He instructed on the Combat Team Commander’s course on two occasions and in 1991 was granted the qualification. He also accompanied the Egyptian Army during the liberation of Kuwait as an observer in 1991. Major Drysdale was appointed Battery Commander of 68 Battery in 1991 and was promoted to Major one year later. He established the battery in the Aldergrove area and built it from scratch to a strength of 70 soldiers over a period of 5 years. ln 1996 68 Battery was amalgamated with 31 Battery and he assumed command of 31 Battery. Major Drysdale has served as the Second in Command of the 15th Field Regiment since 1998. Major Drysdale has been awarded the Canadian Forces Decoration and the Canada 125 Medal. Major Drysdale completed a BA at Bishop's University, an MBA at INSEAD, and a PHD at City University - London. He is currently employed as a Professor of Business Management at Kwantlen University College and he runs his own consulting firm in the area of corporate finance. He also serves as a municipal councillor in the Township of Langley.
In 1988, the prestigious Nobel Peace Prize was awarded to United Nations Peacekeepers in recognition of their collective efforts in the cause of peace for more than fifty years. This inspired the creation of the Canadian Peacekeeping Service Medal (CPSM), the purpose of which is to recognize all Canadians, including serving and former members of the Canadian Forces, members of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and other police services, and Canadian civilians who contributed to peace on specific missions. The medal has taken some time to reach the presentation stage, but as with the creation of any major honour or award, the approval of this award involved consultation with a large number of interested individuals and groups.
The medal’s obverse features the three Canadian Peacekeeper figures that top the Peacekeeping monument in Ottawa. One is an unarmed United Nations Military Observer, holding a pair of binoculars. A second soldier, a woman, shoulders a radio, while the third stands guard with a rifle. Above them flies a dove, the international symbol of peace. This side of the medal also bears the inscriptions PEACEKEEPING and SERVICE DE LA PAIX, together with two maple leafs. The medal's reverse shows the cypher of Her Majesty the Queen on a maple leaf surrounded by two sprigs of laurel and the word CANADA.
The medal's ribbon consists of four colours: green, red, white and United Nations blue. The green represents volunteerism; the red and white are the colours of Canada’s flag; while the white and blue represents the colour of the United Nations flag, under whose auspices the majority of peacekeeping missions have taken place since 1947. The red and white carry additional meaning. White is associated with purity, and peacekeeping is one of mankind’s highest ideals. Red is symbolic of the blood shed by Canada’s 113 peacekeepers that have fallen in service to their country while on peacekeeping and observer missions.
Almost 125,000 Canadians have served in peacekeeping missions over the past 53 years, a record unsurpassed by any nation. This tradition "in the service of peace" continues today.
Parade Format
Military Parades have a long and deep tradition that began many centuries ago. The following is meant as a very basic guide to today's parade.
Forming up the unit - The Regimental Sergeant Major is responsible for the Dress, Drill and Deportment of the unit. He is bringing the unit onto parade as the first step towards being inspected by the Reviewing Officer.
Chain of Command - Once formed up by the Non-Commissioned Officers, the unit is turned over to the Second In Command. He accepts the unit from the RSM and then orders the remaining Officers on parade. Once completed he turns the parade over to the Commanding Officer.
Arrival of the Reviewing Officer – Please stand when the Reviewing officer arrives - he has arrived to inspect the unit and receives a General Salute from the parade. He then takes the time to inspect each rank of the parade with the CO, RSM and others accompanying him.
The March Past - the unit now demonstrates its skill at executing the various drill moves that were required in olden days to fight the battle. It includes a salute to the Reviewing Officer and we would again ask you to rise during the March Past.
The Awards – Once the March Past is complete the unit returns to its original configuration and lines itself up. It is now time for members to be recognized for their service and hard work by their peers and supervisors. While some speeches are made these are kept to a minimum.
The Second March Past - After the awards the Second in Command marches the Regiment past again. This symbolizes that he has now been handed the responsibility for the Regiment as the present CO is departing. He has stood down as the Commanding Officer. We would again ask you to stand during the March Past.
The Advance - On completion of this march past the unit advances in review Order and provides a final salute to the Reviewing Officer who departs with the past CO. Again we would ask you to stand.
The Dismissal - the Second in Command then dismisses the Officers and turns the parade back over to the RSM.
MISSIONS
UNEF United Nations Emergency Force
October 1973 - July 1979
Established in October 1973 to supervise the cease-fire between Egyptian and Israeli forces and, following the conclusion of the agreements of I 8 January 1974 and 4 September 1975, to supervise the redeployment of Egyptian and Israeli forces and to control the buffer zones established under those agreements. The mandate for this Mission expired in July 1979 and the troops were withdrawn.
UNFICYP United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus
March 1964 - Present
UNFICYP was established through Security Council on the 4 March 1964, with the mandate to prevent a recurrence of fighting between the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities and to contribute to the maintenance and restoration of law and order and a return to normal conditions.
IJNFICYP became operational on 27 March 1964. Following the hostilities of 1974, the Security Council adopted a number of resolutions expanding the mandate of UNFICYP to include supervising a de facto ceasefire , which came into effect on 16 August 1974, and maintaining a buffer zone between the lines of the Cyprus National Guard and of the Turkish and Turkish Cypriot forces . In the absence of a political settlement of the Cyprus problem, UNFICYP continues its presence on the island.
UNPROFOR United Nations Protection Force
February 1992 - December 1995
UNPROFOR was established in February 1992 as an interim arrangement to create the conditions of peace and security required for the negotiation of an overall settlement of the Yugoslavian crisis. The role of the UN troops was to ensure that areas designated as "UN Protected Areas" (UNPA) became and remained demilitarized and that all persons residing in these areas were protected from fear of armed attack. The role of UN police monitors was to ensure that local police forces carried out their duties without discriminating against persons of any nationality or abusing any human rights. The force also assisted the humanitarian agencies of the UN in the return of all displaced persons who so desired.
There were several extensions of the original UNPROFOR covering the following purposes:
-reopening of the Sarajevo airport for humanitarian purposes;
-establishing a security zone encompassing Sarajevo and its airport;
-protection of convoys of released detainees in Bosnia and Herzegovina as requested by the International Committee of the Red Cross;
-monitoring arrangements for the complete withdrawal of the Yugoslavian Army from Croatia;
-the demilitarization of the Prevlaka peninsula and the removal of heavy weapons from neighbouring areas of Croatia and Montenegro;
-the demilitarization of the Prevlaka peninsula and the removal of heavy weapons from neighbouring areas of Croatia and Montenegro;
-monitoring compliance with the ban on military flights; and
-the establishment of the United Nations presence in the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia.
UNPROFOR also monitored the implementation of a cease-fire agreement requested by the Bosnian Government and Bosnian-Croat Forces in February 1994. In addition, UNPROFOR monitored cease-fire arrangements, negotiated between the Bosnian Government and Bosnian Serb forces, which became effective on 1 January 1995.
UNSCOM United Nations Special Commission (on the Destruction of Iraqi NBC Weapons and Facilities) Iraq
April 1991 – July 2000
On 3 April 1991, the United Nations Security Council established the terms and conditions for the formal cease-fire between Iraq and the coalition of Member States co-operating with Iraq. Section C of this resolution called for the elimination, under international supervision, of Iraq’s weapons of mass destruction and ballistic missiles with a range greater than 150 kilometers (km), together with related items and production facilities. It also called for measures to ensure that the acquisition and production of prohibited items were not resumed. The United Nations Special Commission (UNSCOM) was set up to implement the non-nuclear provisions of the resolution and to assist the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in the nuclear areas.
The Commission's mandate was the following:
-to carry out immediate on-site inspections of Iraq's biological, chemical and missile capabilities; -to take possession for destruction, removal or rendering harmless of all chemical and biological weapons and all stocks of agents and all related sub-systems and components and all research, development, support and manufacturing facilities;
-to supervise the destruction by Iraq of all its ballistic missiles with a range greater than 150 km and related major parts, and repair and production facilities; and
-to monitor and verify, Iraq's compliance with its undertaking not to use, develop, construct or acquire any of the items specified above.
The Commission was also requested to assist the Director General of the IAEA, which, was requested to undertake activities similar to those of the Commission but specifically in the nuclear field. Further, the Commission was entrusted to designate for inspection any additional site necessary for ensuring the fulfillment of the mandates given to the Commission and the IAEA.
IFOR NATO Implementation Force
December 1996 - June 1996
IFOR deployed in Bosnia six days after the signing in Paris of the Dayton Peace Accord on 14 December 1995. The peace agreement was reached after three weeks of intense negotiations at the Wright Patterson air base in Dayton, Ohio, in which representatives of the Allies were actively engaged, and followed three-and-a-half years of war.
IFOR had a one-year mandate to oversee military aspects of the peace agreement. This involved:
-bringing about and maintaining an end to hostilities;
-separating the armed forces of Bosnia’s two newly created entities, the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina and Republika Srpska;
-transferring territory between the two entities according to the peace agreement; and
- removing the parties’ forces and heavy weapons into approved storage areas.
These goals were achieved by June 1996 and lead to the subsequent creation of the NATO Sustainment Force SFOR.
SFOR NATO Stabilization Force
June 1996 - Present
NATO leads a 20,000-strong peacekeeping mission, or Stabilization Force SFOR to Bosnia and Herzegovina (Bosnia) that maintains the security environment necessary to enable the country to rebuild after the devastation of years of conflict. As of August 2000, SFOR comprises troops from 16 NATO member countries as well as from 13 Partner countries, including a 1,200-strong Russian contingent.
Preserving a secure environment remains SFOR's core mission, but as conditions within Bosnia have improved, SFOR has been able to assist civilian implementation of the peace agreement. The latest meeting in May 2000 of the Peace Implementation Council - the body of countries and international organizations overseeing the Bosnian peace process - identified three strategic areas to take the peace process forward, namely deepening economic reform, accelerating refugee returns, and fostering functional and democratically accountable common institutions.
Today, SFOR figures actively in efforts to help refugees and displaced persons return to their homes and is working on ways of reforming the Bosnian military - currently divided into three ethnically based, rival armies (Bosnian Muslim. Croat and Serb) - in such a way as to avert any prospect of renewed conflict.
SFOR has a UN mandate not just to maintain peace in Bosnia, but also, where necessary, to enforce it. As SFOR succeeded IFOR at the end of 1996, the mission's aims became more ambitious. ln addition to deterring a resumption of hostilities and promoting a climate in which the peace process could continue to move forward, they included providing an increased level of selective support, within SFOR's means and capabilities, to civilian organizations.
Recipients
Petty Officer 2nd Class Dennis Pistun, CD
PO2 Pistun joined the Canadian Forces on 4 June 1968. A Resource Management Support Clerk, he has served with all three environmental elements of the CF. ln April 1979 he deployed to lsmailia, Egypt as part of the United Nations Emergency Force Contingency Headquarters. As the Contingency Superintendent Clerk he was on the second last aircraft to leave the deployment.
Warrant Officer Don Labossiere, CD
Warrant Officer Labossiere joined the Militia in 1977 as a Private. He subsequently enrolled in the Regular Force in 1980 and served with 2 RCHA during its deployment to Cyprus in 1985. He also deployed with the Canadian Airborne Regiment in Somalia in 1992. He transferred to the Reserve force in Feb 2001 and is currently employed as the BSM 31 Battery. Don currently resides in Aldergrove, BC and is employed as a Correctional Officer with Corrections Canada.
Captain Kent Wickens, CD
Captain Wickens joined the Regiment in October 1982 as a Private prior to receiving his commission. He was employed as the Battery Commander 31 Bty until his recent transfer with his civilian occupation. Capt Wickens deployed to Cyprus with 1RCHA in July 1992 where he was employed as a Troop Commander with the 'Rural' Battery. The unit conducted routine patrols, observed the demarcation area and reported on all unauthorized activities by either side. Kent currently resides in Hamilton, ON and is employed as a Flight Officer with Kelowna Flightcraft.
Captain Brent Purcell, CD
Captain Purcell joined the Regular Army in 1986. He served with 1 RCHA until he took his release in 1996 to pursue a civilian career. Capt Purcell deployed to Cyprus with 1RCHA in July 1992 where he was employed as a Troop Commander with the 'City’ Battery. He subsequently reenrolled as a Captain with 15 RCA September 2000. Brent currently resides in Tsawwassen and is employed as a Air Traffic Controller with Nav Canada at the Vancouver International Airport.
Warrant Officer Chris Comars, CD
Warrant Officer Comars joined the Regular Force in 1980. He has served with 1RCHA, 2RCHA and the Artillery School. WO Comars deployed to Cyprus with 1RCHA in August 1992 where he was employed as the Ops 'B' Warrant with 'Operations' Battery. Chris currently resides in Duncan, BC and is employed as the Regular Force Support Staff to the Regiment as the Unit Training Assistant.
Warrant Officer Robert Wishnicki, CD
Warrant Officer Wishnicki joined the Regiment in April 1987.He is currently employed as the TSM for'A’ Troop 31 Battery. WO Wishnicki deployed to Cyprus with 1RCHA where he was employed as a Section 2lC / Line NCO with the ‘Rural’ Battery. Rob currently resides in Vancouver, BC and is employed as a Corrections Officer with Corrections Canada
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Sergeant Ken Chiu, CD
Sergeant Chiu joined the Regiment in April 1986. Sgt Chiu deployed to Cyprus with 1RCHA in July 1992 where he was in the Rural Battery. Ken currently resides in Vancouver, BC and is at the unit full time in the Regimental Quarter Master Stores.
Sergeant Dave Urquhart, CD
Sergeant Urquhart joined the Regiment in January 1989.He is currently employed as a Detachment Commander in 'B'Troop, Aldergrove. Sgt Urquhart deployed to Cyprus with 1RCHA in July 1992 where he was employed in the 'Rural' Battery. Dave currently resides in Harrison Hot Springs and is employed as a Correctional Officer with Corrections Canada.
Master Bombardier Rick Tennant, CD
Master Bombardier Tennant joined the Regiment in January 1988. He is currently employed as a Detachment 2IC in 'A'Troop, Vancouver. MBdr Tennant deployed to Cyprus with 1RCHA in July 1992 where he was employed in the 'Rural' Battery. Rick currently resides in Vancouver.
Master Bombardier Oliver Younq, CD
Master Bombardier Young joined the Regiment in April 1986.He is currently employed as an Artillery Recce Technician. MBdr Young deployed to Cyprus with 1RCHA in July 1992 where he was employed in the 'Rural' Battery. 'OJ' currently resides in Vancouver.
Master Bombardier Anthonv Gee, CD
Master Bombardier Gee joined the Regiment in June 1989. He is currently employed as the Transport NCO for the Regiment. MBdr Gee deployed to Cyprus with 1RCHA in July 1992 where he was employed in the 'Rural' Battery. Tony currently resides in Vancouver.
Bombardier Lisa Abbott
Bombardier Abbott joined the Regiment in June 1990. She is currently employed on a fulltime call out with the Seaforth Highlanders of Canada. Bdr Abbott is qualified as an Artillery Forward Observation Technician and deployed to Cyprus with 1RCHA in July 1992 where she was employed in the ‘Rural’ Battery. Lisa currently resides in Vancouver.
Bombardier Shane Hall
Bombardier Hall joined the Regiment in January 1990. He is currently employed as a Gun Number on a 105mm detachment and is also qualified as an Artillery Communicator. Bdr Hall deployed to Cyprus with 1RCHA as a member of the 'Rural Battery.' Shane is currently employed as a Computer Systems lnstaller.
Sqt Drew Bartlett CD
Sergeant Bartlett joined the Regiment in January 1984. He is qualified detachment Commander on the 105mm Howitzer and is an Artillery Technician. He deployed to the Former Yugoslavia during UNPROFOR with 2 PPCLI. Drew is currently employed at 39 CBG Headquarters in the G3 training department.
Master Bombardier John Meszaros CD
Master Bombardier Meszaros joined the Regiment in May 1986. He is currently employed as a 2lC on a 105mm detachment. MBdr Meszaros is also qualified on the Self Propelled M109. He deployed to the Former Yugoslavia during UNPROFOR with 3PPCLI as a Light Machine Gunner.
Sqt Rob Garrett
Sergeant Garrett joined the Regiment in January 1990. He is currently employed as a Detachment Commander on a 105mm Howitzer. He deployed to the Former Yugoslavia in 1992 during UNPROFOR with 2PPCLI as a Rifleman / section medic. Rob is currently employed as a Correctional Officer with Corrections Canada.
Lieutenant-Colonel Leon Jensen, CD
LCol Jensen joined the Regiment in October 1970. He is the current Commanding Officer of the Regiment. LCol Jensen deployed to Bosnia during UNPROFOR as part of “OP Speaker” in September 1995 and remained during the transition to IFOR in 1996. He has been offered a fulltime callout as part of Land Force Reserve Restructure and will be moving to Ottawa at the end of April.
Captain Jean Pierre Dorris, CD
Captain Dorris joined the Regular Force in January 1988 as an Artillery Air Defense Officer. He is currently employed as the Regular Force Support Staff Officer for the Regiment. Capt Dorris deployed on several trips to lraq as part of UNSCOM during the Spring of 1996. JP currently resides in Vancouver.
Master Bombardier James Perkins
Master Bombardier Perkins joined the Regiment in May 1993. He is currently employed as a Detachment 2IC with 'B'Troop, Aldergrove. MBdr Perkins deployed to Bosnia with 2PPCLI in September 1996 where he was employed as a section member. James currently resides in Abbotsford and is employed as a Carpenter.
Master Bombardier Darrell Erickson
Master Bombardier Erickson joined the Regiment in December 1992. He is currently employed as an Artillery Forward Observation Technician. MBdr Erickson deployed to Bosnia with 2PPCLI in September 1996 where he was employed as a section member. Darrell currently resides in Abbotsford and is employed with Corrections Canada.
Bombardier Tymothy Spruston
Bombardier Spruston joined the Regiment in February 1996. He is currently employed as an Artillery Communicator in 'A' Troop. Bdr Spruston deployed to Bosnia with 2PPCLI in February 2000 where he was employed as a driver. Tym currently resides in Vancouver and is employed as a Carpenter.
Bombardier William Martinez
Bombardier Martinez joined the Regiment in 1990. He is currently employed as a member of a 105mm howitzer detachment in ‘A’ Troop. Bdr Martinez deployed to Bosnia with 2PPCLI in February 2000 where he was employed with the Company Quartermaster Sergeant. William currently resides in Vancouver and is employed as a courier.
Lieutenant Don Lamb
Lieutenant Lamb originally joined the Regular Force as an Aircraft Maintainer. He subsequently took his release and joined the Regiment as an Officer in July 1989. Lt Lamb deployed to Bosnia with A Bty 1RCHA in March 2000 where he was employed as the Camp Admin Officer in Tomislavgrad, Bosnia. Don currently resides in Vancouver and is awaiting a transfer to the Regular Force as an Artillery Officer.
Bombardier Craig Burridge
Bombardier Burridge joined the Regiment in November 1995. Bdr Burridge deployed to Bosnia with A Bty 1RCHA in March 2000 where he was employed on the LG1 howitzer. Craig currently resides in Coquitlam, is employed as a Service Advisor at MCL Motor Cars and is awaiting approval on his application to join the Delta Police Force.
Bombardier Chris Schulz
Bombardier Schulz joined the Regiment in November 1992. Bdr Schulz deployed to Bosnia with A Bty 1RCHA in March 2000 where he was employed as a driver in BHQ. Chris currently resides in Abbotsford. He is upgrading his education in the computer programming area.
Gunner Kendall Shaw
Gunner Shaw joined the Regiment in January 1999. Gnr Shaw deployed to Bosnia with A Bty 1RCHA in March 2000 where he was employed as a detachment member on the LG1 howitzer. Kendall currently resides in Vancouver and is waiting for approval on his application to join the Regular Force.
Gunner Goran Kurtaqic
Gunner Kurtagich joined the Regiment in April 1999. Gnr Kurtagich deployed to Bosnia with A Bty 1RCHA where he was employed as a detachment member on the LG1 howitzer and worked with the Battery Quartermaster Sergeant. He currently resides in Vancouver and is waiting for approval on his application to join the Regular Force.
Lieutenant Elizabeth Skuce
Lieutenant Skuce joined the Regiment as a gunner in. She subsequently received her commission as an Officer in July 1989. Lt Skuce deployed to Bosnia with 2PPCLI in September 2000 where she was employed as the Camp Administrative Officer in Camp Maple Leaf, Bosnia. Liz is currently moving to Winnipeg and will be transferring to 26th Field Artillery Regiment.
Bombardier Lani Jakimchuk
Bombardier Jakimchuk joined the Regiment in April 1999. Bdr Jakimchuk deployed to Bosnia with B Bty 1RCHA in September 2000 where she was employed as an Artillery Technician. She resides in Surrey and is currently on leave after the recent conclusion of her tour.
Reviewing Officer
Major-General (Retired) Stuart T. McDonald CMM. CD
Major-General McDonald was born in North Battleford, Saskatchewan, on 02 June 1943. He joined the Royal Canadian Sea Cadets in Regina and subsequently enlisted in the Militia in Ottawa in 1959; serving for two years as a Signalman in 3 Signals Regiment.
Major-General McDonald attended Victoria College in British Columbia and completed two years of artillery training as an Officer Cadet in the Canadian Officers Training Corps. In 1964 he was commissioned and served as a Lieutenant in 5 (BC) Field Battery, RCA, while completing his university studies.
In 1967 he began his teaching career in North Vancouver and transferred to 15th Field Artillery Regiment, RCA. During the 1976 Olympics he was attached to the Canadian Airborne Regiment in Montreal. In 1978 he was promoted Lieutenant-Colonel, and commanded 15th Field Artillery Regiment until 1981.
Major-General McDonald completed the United States Marine Corps Reserve Command and Staff Course in Quantico, Virginia (1978) and is also a graduate of Canada's National Defence College (1989-1990).
He was promoted Brigadier-General in 1990 and appointed Commander of Pacific Militia Area. From 1991 to 1994 he served in the Land Force Headquarters in Montreal, as Chief of Staff - Reserves and as the Reserve Advisor to the Commander of the Army. He retired from the Army Reserve in 1994.
Three years later, in 1997, he again became a Reservist when he was promoted to the rank of Major-General and appointed Chief of Reserves and Cadets at National Defence Headquarters in Ottawa. He served in that position until his second retirement in September, 2000. In 1999 he was invested as a Commander within the Order of Military Merit.
He has been a member of the Executive of the Royal Canadian Artillery Association for several years and served as President of the Association in 1987-1988. He is a Director of the Friends of the Canadian War Museum and a Trustee of the 15th Field Artillery Regiment Museum.
Major-General McDonald is married to the former Sally Clark of Victoria, British Columbia.
UNITS
15th Field Artillery Regiment
The Regiment is a part of the Reserve Component of Land Force Command. It falls under the commands of 39 Canadian Brigade Group at Jericho and Land Force Western Command in Edmonton.
The Regiment currently consists of a Headquarters element located at Bessborough Armoury with 'A' Troop, 31 Battery and 'B'Troop located at the Naval Station Aldergrove.
The Regiment is equipped with 105mm C3 howitzers and is currently awaiting the latest radio equipment to be installed in its fleet of vehicles.
The Band of the 15th Field Artillery Regiment
The Band continues to be one of the finest military bands in Canada. Due to realignments in the Reserve Band structure it is no longer an integral part of the Regiment. It is now considered the 39 CBG Band but continues its proud heritage of wearing the artillery uniform. The band is still located at Bessborough Armoury and has a very busy schedule of playing at events throughout thePacific North West.
111 Pegasus Royal Canadian Air Cadets
The Pegasus Air Cadets continue to support the youth of the local area with their program designed for youths ages 12 - 19. It provides informative instruction geared towards flying. It's a great place to make friends and gain a strong sense of self- confidence.
2472 Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corps
The Army Cadets are sponsored by 15th Field Regiment and provides another opportunity for youths aged 12 - 19. It is geared towards survival training, citizenship training and provides opportunities for range shooting and outdoor activities. An excellent place to increase youthful self-confidence through challenging experiences.
Recruiting
The 15th Field Artillery Regiment is looking for new members. Within the last 6 weeks we have had about 60 interested individuals attend our information sessions held on Thursday evenings.
Many of these have now started the application process and are hoping to begin their QL2 Recruit course this summer. There are still many vacancies available for R021 Artillery men! Any of the members of the unit can provide you with helpful information on what it takes to join the Regiment and what the training is all about.
Basically if you are (or know of someone who is)
16 or older;
Completed Grade 10;
Physically fit;
Able to pass the Canadian Forces Aptitude Test;
Medically fit; and
Looking for some part-time attention.
Then, we may have a spot for you. Talk to one of our recruiters or phone (604) 666-4371 for more information.
LIEUTENANT-COLONEL LEON JENSEN, CD
LCol Leon Jensen was born in Copenhagen, Denmark. He immigrated to Canada with his family in 1958 and was raised in the East Vancouver and South Delta areas of the Lower Mainland. He enrolled in the 15th Field Artillery Regiment in October 1970 at the Canadian Forces Station Ladner where the Boundary Bay Airport is currently located. LCol Jensen was promoted to Chief Warrant Officer and appointed Regimental Sergeant Major 16 years later. During that time he participated in flyover training with 1 RCHA in Germany during the REFORGER series of exercises in the early 70's, transferred to 20th Field Artillery Regiment in Edmonton from 1982 to 1983 and completed the Non Commissioned Leadership courses.
LCol Jensen was commissioned as a Captain in September 1988 and was transferred to the 11th Canadian Training Brigade at Jericho as the G1 for a year before returning to the Regiment as the Training Officer. He was appointed Battery Commander of 31 Bty in September 1992 until he was attached as a Watchkeeper/Liaison Officer at the British Headquarters Sector South West in Bosnia Hercegovina during the summer of 1995. On the arrival of the NATO lmplementation Force he was transferred to the Divisional Headquarters under command of Maj-General Michael Jackson. After his operational tour LCol Jensen was appointed G1 at BC Militia District Headquarters for a year and then returned to the Regiment as the Battery Commander of the Headquarters and Services Battery. LCol Jensen assumed command of the 15th Field Artillery Regiment in October 1998. During his service LCol Jensen has been awarded the Canadian Forces Decoration with clasp, the UNPROFOR medal, the NATO IFOR medal, the Canadian Peacekeeping Service Medal and received the FMC Achievement Award. He has accepted full time employment with the Land Force Command Headquarters in Ottawa as the Director Land Force Management 5 and will be involved in the Land Force Reserve Restructure Project.
MAJOR DEAN DRYSDALE, CD
Major Dean Drysdale was born in Victoria, BC and grew up in Langley, B.C. He enrolled in the 15th Field Regiment, RCA as an Officer Cadet in April 1981. He served in Les Fusiliers de Sherbrooke, Le Regiment de Hull, 30th Field Regiment, RCA and 20th Field Regiment, RCA. He was promoted Captain in 1985. Major Drysdale completed the Militia Command and Staff Course in 1989. He instructed on the Combat Team Commander’s course on two occasions and in 1991 was granted the qualification. He also accompanied the Egyptian Army during the liberation of Kuwait as an observer in 1991. Major Drysdale was appointed Battery Commander of 68 Battery in 1991 and was promoted to Major one year later. He established the battery in the Aldergrove area and built it from scratch to a strength of 70 soldiers over a period of 5 years. ln 1996 68 Battery was amalgamated with 31 Battery and he assumed command of 31 Battery. Major Drysdale has served as the Second in Command of the 15th Field Regiment since 1998. Major Drysdale has been awarded the Canadian Forces Decoration and the Canada 125 Medal. Major Drysdale completed a BA at Bishop's University, an MBA at INSEAD, and a PHD at City University - London. He is currently employed as a Professor of Business Management at Kwantlen University College and he runs his own consulting firm in the area of corporate finance. He also serves as a municipal councillor in the Township of Langley.