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The Blue Beret©

A Canadian Armed Forces Veterans Newsletter

Volume 7, Number 34 ISSN: 1488 – 1799 October 2007

CANADIAN PEACEKEEPING VETERANS ASSOCIATION National Headquarters: PO Box 905, Kingston, Ontario, CANADA, K7L 4X8

A SYMBOL OF REMEMBRANCE The Poppy

On the eleventh hour, of the eleventh day, of the eleventh month of every year on Remembrance Day, memorial gatherings are held across Canada to honour those Canadians who died in war operations and on peacekeeping missions.

IN THIS ISSUE • Remembrance: The Poppy • From National Headquarters • News & Events: August 9th

National Peacekeepers Day • Parades & Ceremonial:

The Parade Marshall • Dress & Deportment: Wearing

Orders, Medals & Decorations • Honours & Awards: The United

Nations Service Medal (Korea) • Peacekeeping in Korea:

The forgotten Missions • Lest we forget: Canadian

Casualties in War & Peace • In Memoriam: Obituaries • Poem: Bury Me With Soldiers • Remembrance & Peacekeeping

The Canadian Ten Dollar Note • Definitions & Terminology:

Who may be called a Veteran? • The Buffer Zone:

Announcements • Appointments & Biographies:

Key Positions

The Poppy is the symbol of Remembrance. Every year, the Royal Canadian Legion holds the Poppy Campaign to raise funds for veterans in need and to perpetuate Remembrance for those who have given their lives for the nation and in the service of peace. The official start of the campaign is the last Friday in October. The Royal Canadian Legion suggests that the Poppy be worn on the left lapel of a garment or close to the heart. Although traditionally, the Poppy is worn during the Remembrance period and removed after the 11th of November, it may be worn on any other commemorative occasion such as Peacekeepers Day, pilgrimages to battlefield memorials in Canada and Europe, or for veteran’s funerals. The Poppy has become the most recognized remembrance symbol in Canada.

PUBLICATION ADVISORY The Blue Beret © is the official newsletter of the Canadian Peacekeeping Veterans Association (CPVA). We welcome articles of interest to veterans. An Editorial board reviews all articles. Opinions expressed in The Blue Beret © are not necessarily those of the CPVA.

The Blue Beret © is published quarterly in January, April, July and October. Articles should be provided two weeks prior to the month of publication and be submitted by electronic format. Please address queries, comments and articles to the Editor. All submissions are subject a review board.

The Editor

The Blue Beret ©

[email protected]

4478, Laval Avenue, Suite 6, Montreal, QC H2W 2J8

www.cpva.ca

Opinions expressed in The Blue Beret © are not necessarily those of the CPVA. The Editorial Board reserves the right to edit the content of all articles submitted for publication.

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CANADIAN PEACEKEEPING

VETERANS ASSOCIATION

FROM THE NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS Report by Ray Kokkonen, Vice President

INTRODUCTION As we await the coming of winter in its various forms across our great land, this October issue of the Blue Beret serves to remind us that we are the veterans who have had, or have, the honour and responsibility of armed service for our country. Let us reflect on the importance and the nature of that service to our nation – especially with the ongoing conflict in Afghanistan – as we peruse what has been happening within the CPVA in the last three months. I have highlighted some of the most notable recent activities and issues below. THE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING, 25 AUGUST 2007 It was an experiment which worked – the Annual General Meeting of the CPVA by conference call. For the first time in its history, CPVA conducted the AGM in a manner which allowed full representation by all members in a common democratic forum. The professionalism, cooperation and good will of all of the participants was very impressive and I want to thank everyone, particularly the Chapter Presidents, who took part and made the success possible. Minutes of the AGM will soon be available and highlights will be posted on the CPVA website. In essence, the major decisions were the change of the Mission Statement of CPVA and a number of modifications to the By-Laws concerning the organizational structure, governance procedures and membership categories of CPVA. The new Mission Statement is: "To be a strong and leading advocate for all veterans, to create and nurture a forum of comradeship for veterans and to govern the CPVA democratically and effectively on behalf of all its members." Although it would be very enjoyable and companionable to hold a physical AGM in a friendly location somewhere in Canada, it is unlikely in view of the travel costs and the consequent impact on valid democratic representation. So, we can expect the conference call format to be repeated for the foreseeable future. NEW MEMBERSHIP CHAIR The Executive has appointed a new person to fill the very important Membership Chair position – Ed Oursien of Miramichi, NB. Ed has already proven his value by taking the somewhat disoriented membership situation firmly in hand, making several sound decisions and necessary changes to improve the state of things. By distributing information to other organizations, and by exchanging website links, Ed has already attracted a number of new members, and prospective members, to CPVA. Ed's bio appears later in this Blue Beret. COMMUNICATIONS Communications and membership are very closely related. With Karl Morel at the helm of our communications machine, in constant collaboration with Ed Oursien, we have made significant strides in improving information passage to our members and to outside organizations. Karl's news flashes and his outstanding work with the Blue Beret are truly commendable. Keep a watch on our website as Karl and Rodd Kennedy, the Webmaster, continue to make refinements and improvements. As well, the Chapters have contributed in a major way to updating membership lists and other information in response to the coordinated efforts of Ed and Karl thus improving internal communications significantly. MEETINGS AND ADVOCACY REPRESENTATION Various meetings on veterans matters have been and continue to be attended by our President Tom Hoppe and Marlowe Fraser, Special Assignments Officer, with extremely valuable guidance by Larry Gollner, the previous Special Assignments Officer. These representative meetings enable the CPVA to have a voice in veterans affairs and issues and to raise our credibility and profile with other veterans organizations and the government. It is to be noted that Tom and Marlowe have been highly effective in their representative roles and have brought credit to CPVA by their excellent performance as they strive on our behalf for veterans' causes.

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APPOINTMENT TO VETERANS REVIEW AND APPEAL BOARD Harold Leduc, a former President of CPVA, was re-appointed to the highly important Veterans Review and Appeal Board by the Minister of Veterans Affairs. The Board is an independent body which reports directly to Parliament through the Minister and deals mainly with various pension appeals by veterans and CF and RCMP personnel. We are proud and grateful for Harold's long-term and crucial service to veterans. CPVA NAME CHANGE STATUS We have not received any reply from the CDS or Minister of National Defence about the proposed name change for our organization. The name change is intended to make our organization more attractive for all veterans, not just Peacekeepers. A second hastener letter has been sent by our President and we await the results. As a reminder, in any case, Chapters have the right to retain the use of CPVA in their names. VETERANS UNITED? Many discussions are taking place about the possibility of different kinds of amalgamations of existing veterans groups, or the forming of umbrella organizations. The motivation, in most cases, is commendable with the objective of increasing the strength of the veterans' voice in dealing with the government and thus likely achieving better rights and more benefits for veterans. For the second time in the recent past, there is an initiative for the Canadian Association of Veterans in United Nations Peacekeeping (CAVUNP), the Gulf War Veterans Association of Canada (GWVA) and CPVA to come together in some form of union. This latest proposal comes from the President of CAVUNP and certainly merits full and serious consideration. In general agreement with the CAVUNP recommendation, the most logical approach to amalgamation for CPVA would appear to be specifically with those organizations whose members are mostly veterans of peace support operations and missions and which tend to be most homogeneous by relatively similar experiences, and particularly by having been, almost universally, professional sailors, soldiers or air force members – and police or other peace officers. Another proposal to explore possibilities of cooperation or union has been made by the Royal Canadian Legion with a meeting to be held in Ottawa on 16 November 2007, to be chaired by the well-known Lieutenant-General (Ret'd) Charles Belzile. Larry Gray and I will be attending to represent CPVA and naturally we will not be authorized to enter into any kind of commitment but will bring back the information to the Board and the entire membership of CPVA. A counter argument to joining together that is voiced by some is the reduction of the number of organizations which would have a voice and a place at the table in dealing with the government, and which could be seen as a diminishment of influence by veterans. In view of the importance of this very fundamental question, I ask that all CPVA members give serious thought and examination to the idea of some kind of union, under an umbrella structure or other form. Please share your views and opinions by sending them to any Executive member or Karl Morel, the Communications Officer, so that further dissemination can be done for discussions amongst the membership. Of course. a proposal for any form of union or joining an umbrella organization by CPVA would have to be presented to the whole membership of CPVA to decide by vote. CONCLUSION Based on the foregoing, it is clear that we are a dynamic organization which is progressing and developing rapidly and can look to the future with confident anticipation of many good things to come. As well, we can certainly expect even more positive news and interesting information in the next issue of the Blue Beret in January. On behalf of our President and the National Executive, I thank you very much for your contribution to CPVA and wish you success with your Remembrance Day activities, and a safe, healthy and very enjoyable holiday season during Christmas and New Year.

Respectfully, Ray Kokkonen Vice President

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BRITISH COLUMBIA REGION – SURREY V CHAPTER

Russ Hiebert Member of Parliament

South Surrey-White Rock-Cloverdale

Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of National Defence

News Release

For immediate Release August 9, 2007

Russ Hiebert is joined by Brigadier General Darrell Dean CD (retired)

at the Crescent Beach Legion Cenotaph

MP Russ Hiebert Honours Sacrifice of Canadian Peacekeepers

Surrey, BC: Conservative MP Russ Hiebert (South Surrey) spoke at a local commemorative ceremony honouring Canadian peacekeepers that have served and are serving internationally.

The Blue Beret - A Canadian Armed Forces Veterans Newsletter

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BRITISH COLUMBIA REGION – SURREY V CHAPTER

“Through two world wars and other international conflicts, Canadians have fought and died to defend our civilization,” Mr. Hiebert said. “And, over the last several decades, Canadians have joined with peacekeepers from many other countries to stand between opposing forces in trouble spots in the hope of bringing lasting peace and stability.”

Mr. Hiebert said that over the decades Canadian peacekeepers have monitored numerous cease-fires in the Middle East, Cyprus, India and Pakistan, Nigeria, Mozambique, Guatemala, and other countries around the world. They have monitored elections to ensure that they are fair and democratic. And they have delivered aid to countries such as Sri Lanka and Nicaragua, which were crippled by natural disasters.

“Our peacekeepers have brought guidance and oversight to nations seeking stability through democratic governance – and they are continuing to do this as we speak, often in very difficult circumstances. And in every case, on every mission, the presence of Canadian peacekeepers has demonstrated to the rest of the world those values that Canada cherishes,” Mr. Hiebert said.

Mr. Hiebert spoke of the many sacrifices Canadian soldiers have made in the cause of peace. He said, “There is the sacrifice of distance and separation from their homes, families and loved ones. The sacrifice of discomfort and a standard of living that is often significantly lower than what we are accustomed to in Canada. And, the sacrifices of injury, and even of death, to protect, provide, and stand up for those values that form the core of Canadian society: peace, freedom, justice, and the rule of law.”

“It is right, therefore, that we honour our peacekeepers – and not only honour them, through occasions and days such as this, but thank them as well, for we owe them a tremendous debt of gratitude,” concluded Mr. Hiebert.


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BRITISH COLUMBIA REGION – BRITISH COLUMBIA CHAPTER

PEACEKEEPERS REMEMBERED

Victoria, BC: Frank A. Chevrier, CD, proudly holds the Canadian Flag at the 15th Annual Peacekeepers Memorial Day Service at the British Columbia Legislature building on August 9th. Canadian Forces personnel from CFB Esquimalt formed up with veteran’s groups in a parade honouring Canadians who have died on peacekeeping missions abroad.

The event marks the deaths of nine Canadians on August 9th, 1974, when a Syrian missile downed their aircraft over the Lebanon, near the Golan Heights – still the most tragic loss of Canadian lives in a single day on a military operation since the Korean War. Thanks to the efforts of the CPVA and CAVUNP, the Canadian House of Commons is expected to vote into law National Peacekeepers Day this fall.

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ALBERTA REGION – WEST CENTRAL ALBERTA CHAPTER PEACEKEEPERS DAY

Calgary, AB: On a beautiful sunny day in Calgary, on the 12th of August 2007, Canada remembered its Peacekeeping soldiers, sailors and air force members, past and present. Peacekeeper’s Day in Calgary is held once a year on the Sunday closest to 9th August, when in 1974, a Buffalo aircraft carrying nine Canadian Peacekeepers was shot down by Syrian forces. In 65 years of service on international peace support operations, the incident on the 9th of August 1974 was the worst loss of Canadian servicemen during any one mission.

Lieutenant-Colonel Rick Wright, CD (retired) honours the “Buffalo 9” who were killed

by a Syrian missile on 9 August 1974 at their memorial in Buffalo Park.

Over 500 people attended the ceremony to honour Canada’s peacekeeping veterans, as well as several families of those fallen in Afghanistan whose names are now inscribed on the Wall of Honour in Peacekeeper’s Park in Calgary, Alberta. The remembrance ceremony was led by Master of Ceremonies, LCol. Rick Wright, CD (Retired), who introduced the special guests, including the Honourable Greg Thompson, Canada’s Minister of Veteran’s Affairs. Other special guests included MP’s Myron Thompson, Lee Richardson and Art Hanger, as well as Deputy Minister of Veteran’s Affairs, Ms. Suzanne Tining.


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QUÉBEC REGION – HEMMINGFORD

THE ROYAL CANADIAN LEGION, QUÉBEC BRANCH 244 RENDERS HOMMAGE TO CANADIAN PEACEKEEPERS

Hemmingford, QC: The United Nations Flag was raised for the very first time in the US border community of Hemmingford on August 12th in honour of Canadian Peacekeepers. The ceremony was conducted by Lieutenant-Colonel Karl-Heinz Krammel, CD, himself a retired peacekeeping veteran.

March on the Colours!

Raising the Flag

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QUÉBEC REGION – HEMMINGFORD

The short commemorative ceremony was attended by members of The Royal Canadian Legion, CAVUNP’s MGen Alain R. Forand (Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu) Chapter President Maurice Boucher, CD, and CPVA Regional Chair / CAVUNP Quebec Provincial Director Karl O. Morel, CD. The United Nations flag was raised by CIC Captain Denise Pellerin. Several peacekeepers were in attendance. Piper Robert Waller of the RCMP Pipe Band played the Lament. The temperature stood at 39 degrees Celsius. Refreshments that were served afterward in the Legion Hall, Branch 244, were therefore very welcome.

The Colours at the Cenotaph

The National Anthem

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QUÉBEC REGION

MONTREAL

The 9TH OF AUGUST 2007 – CPVA & CAVUNP PEACEKEEPERS RAISE THE FLAG IN MONTREAL-EAST, QC

On Thursday, the 9th of August 2007, veterans of the CAVUNP Montreal Chapter held a flag-raising ceremony in the suburb of Montreal-East, Quebec. The Mayor of Montreal-East and three city administrators attended the ceremony presided by the CAVUNP Quebec West Director & CPVA Quebec Region Chair officiating as Master of Ceremonies.

The ceremony began by the singing of ‘Oh Canada’. This was followed by a statement describing the significance and purpose of Peacekeepers Day. The United Nations flag was raised to the tune of ‘Mon Ami’ the Peacekeepers March, by the Sergeant-at-Arms, Lech Kwasiborski, SC, CD, assisted by His Honour the Mayor, Mr. Yvon Labrosse.

Le 9 AOÛT 2007, - LES MEMBRES DE L’ACVMP ET DE L’ACVMPNU HISSENT LE DRAPEAU À MONTRÉAL-EST, QC.

Le jeudi, le 9 août 2007, des vétérans de la Succursale de Montréal de l’ACVMPNU ont tenu une cérémonie de la levée du drapeau dans la banlieue de Montréal-Est, Québec. Le Maire de Montréal-Est et trois administrateurs de la ville ont assisté à la cérémonie présidée par le Directeur, Québec Ouest de l’ACVMPNU à titre de Maître des cérémonies.

La cérémonie a débuté par le chant ‘O’Canada’. Ceci fut suivi par une allocution décrivant le but et la signification de la Journée des Gardiens de la Paix. Le drapeau des Nations Unies fut hissé au son de ‘Mon Ami’ la marche des Casques Bleus par le Sergent d’Armes, Lech Kwasiborski, EC, CD, avec l’aide de Monsieur le Maire, Yvon Labrosse.

M. le Maire et le Sergent-d’armes Mr. Mayor and the Sgt-at-Arms

Les vétérans se présentant au maire The Veterans present themselves to the Mayor

The peacekeeping veterans then formed a semi-circle in front of Mayor Labrosse and presented them selves one by one, stating their name and rank, their respective missions and each made a short comment particular to his experiences.

Les vétérans du maintien de la paix formèrent alors un demi cercle devant le Maire Labrosse et se sont présentés l’un après l’autre, en exposant leur nom et leur grade, leurs missions, et chacun a fait un commentaire particulier à ses expériences.


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QUÉBEC REGION

MONTREAL

The MC, Karl O. Morel, CD, also presented three other veterans, including one from the Second World War to Mr Mayor. Mayor Labrosse then made a short speech praising the extraordinary service of the peacekeepers, including a reference to Senator Roméo Dallaire who spent his childhood in Montreal-East.

Le MC, Karl O. Morel, CD, présenta aussi trois autres vétérans y inclus un de la Deuxième Guerre Mondiale à M. le Maire. Le Maire Labrosse fit alors une courte allocution élogieuse du service extraordinaire des gardiens de la paix y inclut référence au Sénateur Roméo Dallaire qui passa son enfance à Montréal-Est.

Veterans from left to right / de gauche à droite: Adj/WO Guy Duval CD, Sdt/Pte Benoit Nuckle OStJ, Capt

Kenneth Ouellet CD, Capt Anne-Marie Côté CD, Maj Paul D’Orsonnens CD, Adjum/MWO Karl Morel CD, Maj Louis Gagné CD, LCol Kenneth Lavergne CD, Cplc/MCpl Sylvain Duval CD, Sgt Lech Kwasiborski SC, CD,

& Sgt Christophe Côté CD. Ils sont accompagnés du Maire Yvon Labrosse (au centre) et deux administrateurs de la ville (à gauche).

They are accompanied by Mayor Labrosse (centre) and two City Administrators (far left).

The Montreal Chapter President, Major Paul D’Orsonnens, CD, then thanked the Mayor for his support and participation. His Honour, Mayor Labrosse was so touched by the commemorative ceremony that he declared the United Nations flag would fly from the mast for one month! Montreal-East is the fourth municipality to recognize Peacekeepers Day in Québec. A great honour for our peacekeeping veterans.

Le Président de la succursale, le Major Paul D’Orsonnens, CD, par la suite remercia le Maire pour son appui et de sa participation. Le Maire Labrosse, touché par la cérémonie a déclaré que le drapeau des Nations Unies flotterait au mat pendant un mois! La Ville de Montréal-Est est la quatrième municipalité au Québec à reconnaître la Journée des Gardiens de la Paix. Un grand honneur pour nos vétérans.


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ATLANTIC REGION

MIRAMICHI, NEW BRUNSWICK

MIRAMICHI, NB: On Thursday, 9 August 2007, Miramichi Chapter held its Annual Peacekeeping Memorial Day activities, at the cenotaph in Queen Elizabeth Park, Miramichi.

The CPVA Miramichi Chapter on parade, Peacekeepers Day, 9 August 2007 The Honourable Herménégilde Chiasson, Lieutenant-Governor of the Province of New Brunswick took the Vice Regal Salute and reviewed those on parade. Also in attendance at these activities were Mayor John McKay, City of Miramichi; The Honourable Charles Hubbard, Member of Parliament; MLA Bill Fraser; CPVA National Vice President Ray Kokkonen; and Superintendent Hansen, Miramichi City Police, along with Chapter members' families, friends and the community at large.


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ATLANTIC REGION


During this parade a number of presentations were made in recognition of those who have contributed so much to the Miramichi Chapter presence in the community. The Lieutenant-Governor presented the “Peacekeeper of the Year” award for 2007 to Mel McGraw for his tireless activities within the Chapter and the community. The “Builder Award” was presented to Ed Oursien, by the Lieutenant-Governor, for his continued hard work behind the scenes in the day to day operation of Miramichi Chapter. Presentations of the Nobel Peace prize Diploma were also made to Mr. Robert Doucette and Mr. Reginald Savoie.

Ed Oursien receives Builder Award

The Lieutenant Governor was made an

Honorary Peacekeeper

Robert Doucette receives Nobel Peace Prize Scroll

Reg Savoie receives Nobel Peace Prize Scroll


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ATLANTIC REGION


These awards were certainly deserved by these members for their hard work and dedication that they have shown while serving this Chapter. As a thank you and an honour, a blue beret was presented by our President Jim Muck to the Lieutenant-Governor, making him an honorary “Blue Beret.” Over the past years the Lieutenant-Governor has gone out of his way to help celebrate Peacekeeping Memorial Day with the Miramichi Chapter. It is his dedication and support of this Chapter and its members which is so richly appreciated by our veterans. Following the formal Peacekeeper’s Day activities the Chapter members and guests attended a local restaurant “The Goodie Shop” for a catered meal. During this time together everyone had an opportunity to reflect on experiences and times past while remembering those who made the supreme sacrifice. by Dean Lawrence, MMM, CD, Past President, Miramichi Chapter

The Miramichi Chapter Flag Party also participated in the opening of the Napan Fair,

9 August 2007

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ATLANTIC REGION

SAINT JOHN’S NEWFOUNDLAND

National Peacekeepers Day Ceremony

A Peacekeeper’s Day Ceremony was scheduled to take place on August 9, 2007, at the Canadian Peacekeeping Memorial in St. John’s, NL. Unfortunately, the weather did not co-operate and we were forced to cancel the parade at the last minute. Although high winds and heavy rain prevailed, some of our members, as well as some of the invited dignitaries and spectators, did not allow the inclement weather deter them. The rain subsided sufficiently to allow the Wreath Laying and Act of Remembrance segments of the ceremony to take place. Wreaths were laid by CPVA NL, representatives of the Federal and Provincial Governments, the Royal Canadian Legion Provincial Command and Branch #1, as well as others. Various media members were present to record the event and interview some of the CPVA members.

The Honourable Tom Osborne, Minister of justice for Newfoundland and Labrador, lays

a wreath on behalf of the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador. He was

assisted by Vice-President Jesse Wilkins

Mr. Tom Strong, District director for Newfoundland and Labrador lays a wreath

on behalf of the Veterans Affairs Canada office

located in Saint John’s NL

BE A PROUD VETERAN – WEAR YOUR BLUE BERET!


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ATLANTIC REGION

SAINT JOHN’S NEWFOUNDLAND

The Honourable Tom Osbourne, Minister of Justice participates with CPVA members in the Act of Remembrance.

The Canadian Peacekeeping Memorial in Saint John’s after the August 9th ceremony.

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PARADES & CEREMONIAL

THE PARADE MARSHALL

The person whose duty it is to organize and command large bodies of veterans, service personnel and cadets for such activities as a Remembrance Day Parade is the Parade Marshall. He or she is usually appointed to organize large parades where there are several hundred participants. A Sergeant-at-Arms of a veterans association may be chosen for this role.

The Parade Marshall is usually a seasoned military or RCMP veteran. He or she is preferably an experienced officer, warrant officer or petty officer thoroughly familiar with military drill and ceremonial. The Parade Marshall must be an effective leader with a strong positive personality and military bearing. Experience with flag drill and marching bands is mandatory.

The Parade Marshall‘s duties and responsibilities are to:

• Organize, lead and command the Parade; • Establish the order of precedence for

contingents, bands and flags; • Appoint the Colour Sergeant, the Flag Orderly

and the Flag Bearers; • Appoint a Sergeant-at-Arms to command

ceremonial parties such as at a memorial monument or for flag raisings, funeral processions and honour guards;

• Practice the Colour Party and the Colour Sergeant in flag drill prior to the parade;

• Brief and provide a detailed parade order for all contingents, flag parties and bands;

• Practice the singing of the national anthem; • Give basic drill instruction prior to the parade,

including marching and saluting; • Form up, dress, march off, and dismiss the

contingents on parade; • Maintain parade discipline, order of dress and

decorum; and • Give clear and precise words of command.

The Parade Marshall Montreal-East, Remembrance Day 2006

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DRESS & DEPORTMENT

THE WEARING OF ORDERS, MEDALS AND DECORATIONS

Karl O. Morel, CD

Common sense advice for Veterans Remembrance Day will soon be upon us. Inevitably, as a former Sergeant-Major, expected to be knowledgeable in matters of dress, etiquette and protocol, I am frequently asked by fellow veterans, civilians and active service persons alike, how to dress for ceremonial occasions and on the correct manner of wearing of honours and awards of all kinds. Well, I would give you a Sergeant-Majors’ answer – by the book. This notwithstanding, as the ‘book’ does not cover everything, here is some common sense advice for veterans. As for those of you active service personnel, do see your friendly Sergeant-Major or RCMP Staff Sergeant, he’s got the book!

Don’t dress up like a Christmas Tree Before you walk out the door in your veterans outfit, go take a good look at yourself in the mirror. Is what you are wearing appropriate to the occasion you will attend and for the organization you represent? Wearing the lapel pin the mayor gave you at last years reception is not appropriate on Remembrance Day. Don’t make a spectacle of yourself; otherwise nobody is going to take you seriously.

Dress for dinner If you are attending a Regimental Mess Dinner, should you really be wearing all those medals from the two or three veterans’ organizations you belong to on this particular occasion? The same goes for any other medals worn over the right breast you paid for or were given to you by some private group. With all due respect, they are absolutely meaningless to the Guest of Honour and your host! One single CD over your left breast is far more impressive.

I got this one for being at the right

place at the right time…

Wearing Undress Ribbons Undress Ribbons are worn on your veteran’s military style shirt. They are not worn on your veteran’s blazer. Most veterans’ organizations permit the wear of undress ribbons on the short-sleeve shirt as part of summer dress. Privately purchased and association medal ribbons and lapel pins should not be worn on the shirt. Take care not to wear your ribbons upside down or on the wrong side! A rule of thumb: medals and ribbons are worn over the heart.


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Mounting & Wearing Service Medals Service medals are worn at appropriate ceremonial functions such as parades, presentations, general meetings and funerals. All service medals must be worn over the left breast, in order of precedence from the centre of the body outwards. When there are more than five medals, they are to be overlapped. Medals are never worn in more than one row. They shall not extend beyond the centre of the body and the seam of the left arm sleeve. Medals must be centered over the left breast and fastened horizontally at a height level with the base of the lapel button hole Navy style. They must not cover the breast pocket crest. Some veterans use a plastic pocket insert to suspend their medals. This practice rarely results in the proper alignment of the medals and therefore should be avoided. Don’t attach medals in a haphazard manner or on the lapel of your blazer as this does not inspire respect and diminishes the value of the service, the sacrifice and the merit for which they were awarded.

Other Peoples' Medals Never wear another person’s medals, including a relative! This is a criminal offence in Canada. Medals are worn by the recipient – nobody else. They are yours for life. Furthermore, it is forbidden by the Chancellery rules for the official Canadian Order of Precedence to juxtapose (mix together) private medals with your service medals.

Standard Medals Standard full-size medals are never worn with the summer dress shirt. They are only worn on the blazer and only on appropriate occasions as indicated by the host or the president of your association branch, unit or chapter. Should you be attending a full-dress parade, it is not necessary to remove your medals in the mess afterward, as some young PMC insisted I do after last year’s battalion parade. The rule of thumb here is; nobody tells a veteran how to dress – except a knowledgeable veteran!

Miniature Medals Miniature medals are only worn for protocol dinners and gala balls such as regimental mess dinners and the annual military or police ball. Miniatures are never worn on parade or on the summer shirt. The rule of thumb is that miniatures are worn after sundown. It is a matter of proper etiquette to obtain the hosts’ permission to wear mess kit and miniatures. If the host has sent you an invitation that indicates ‘Mess Kit’ and ‘Miniatures’ this may be taken as permission for wear.

Lapel Pins Lapel pins are meant to be worn on the lapel of the blazer and nowhere else. The Canadian Forces Service Insignia should be worn on the left lapel. Only one association pin of the same organization should be worn on the right side only. Unit, Branch or Corps pins may also be worn on the left side if they are not the same as your blazer crest. Wearing two or more association or unit lapel pins is bad form. Is it really necessary to wear a half dozen lapel pins representing every unit or veterans’ association you ever served with at one time? Wearing lapel pins and a second badge on your beret is definitely not appropriate. If you’re going to do that, go fishing!

STAND STRAIT AND WALK TALL – BE A PROUD VETERAN!

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PEACEKEEPING DECORATIONS

THE UNITED NATIONS (KOREA) SERVICE MEDAL

CONTEXT Korean War & UNCURK The United Nations Service Medal represents military operations under the UN flag in Korea 1950 to 1954.

Creation and duration: The Medal was created on 12 December 1950 by Resolution 483 of the United Nations General Assembly in recognition of service in the Korean theatre from 27 June 1950 to 27 July 1954.

RIBBON

OBVERSE

DESCRIPTION Piece: A circular medal made of bronze alloy 35 millimetres in diameter. Obverse: The emblem of the United Nations, which is the globe of the earth viewed from above the North Pole within a wreath of two olive branches. Reverse: An inscription which reads « FOR SERVICE IN THE DEFENCE OF THE PRINCIPLES OF THE UNITED NATIONS ». Mounting: A single-toe scroll claw is attached to a plain, strait, solid, suspender bar with a claw which holds the medal. Bar: A permanent bar is attached to the mount with the word « KOREA » or « CORÉE » inscribed on it. Ribbon: A ribbon of 35 millimetres in width is composed of 17 vertical alternate blue and white bands. Both extremities of the ribbon are blue. Symbolism: The ribbons’ bands may unofficially represent the 17 countries which provided combatants. Blue and white are the official colours of the United Nations. White represents peace and blue signifies the spirit. Only Turkey has distributed this decoration with a red ribbon since blue and white are also the national colours of Greece. Versions: This decoration was distributed in four official languages; English, French, Sanskrit and Greek. The Medal has also been issued in the principal languages of 23 participating countries.

REVERSE

CRITÈRIA Eligibility: This medal was awarded in recognition for serving one day under United Nations Command (UNC) in Korea or adjacent areas, including Japan and Okinawa, between 27 June 1950 and 27 July 1953. The medal could also be awarded for an aggregate of thirty days service, which need not have been consecutive, including time spent on official visits of inspection to the qualifying area until one year after the war, to July 1954. Peacekeeping: Apart from combat service in Korea or adjacent areas between 27 June 1950 and 27 July 1953, the members of the United Nations Commission on the Unification and the Rehabilitation of Korea (UNCURK) from the armistice of 27 July 1953 at Panmunjom, to 27 July 1954 were eligible to receive this medal. Recipients: There were nearly a million participants including about 26,000 Canadians. The recipient’s name and military service number are engraved on the rim of the medal. Sacrifice: 518 Canadians have given their lives on the field of honour in Korea, including 46 Peacekeepers. Wear: This military distinction is worn over the left breast after the war decorations and before peacekeeping medals in accordance with the official Canadian order of precedence. Initials: There are no post-nominal initials for this decoration.

21



PEACEKEEPING

PEACEKEEPING IN KOREA: THE FORGOTTEN MISSIONS 1947 - 1978

INTRODUCTION There have been four peacekeeping missions in Korea since 1947. Three of these; UNTCOK, UNCOK and UNCURK, were established as observer missions under United Nations auspices between 1947 and 1973. The forth observer mission was established by the United Nations Command (UNC) under the stewardship of the United States as the Military Armistice Commission (MAC) The UNC-MAC in Korea was not established by the UN and is therefore technically a multinational peacekeeping mission similar to the ICCS, ICSC, INTERFET and MFO.

UNTCOK – 14 November 1947 to 12 December 1948. The United Nations Temporary Commission on Korea was established by the United Nations Security Council in November 1947 to facilitate the establishment of a national government for all of Korea and to provide for the withdrawal of occupation forces. In 1945, after the Japanese surrender, Korea was provisionally divided at the 48th parallel. From 1945 to 1948 it was under the military administration and occupation of the Soviet Union north of the 48th parallel and by the United States south of the parallel. The mission failed to establish a united Korean government. By 1948 the country was split into North Korea and South Korea. A communist government ruled in the north and a western style one governed in the south.

UNCOK – 12 December 1948 to 07 October 1950 The United Nations Commission on Korea was originally established in 1948 as a diplomatic mission to monitor the withdrawal of United States and Soviet occupation forces from Korea and to provide UN good offices for the unification of the two regimes fostered by the USA and the USSR. In May 1950, military observers were added to the mission to undertake monitoring activities in the field. It replaced its temporary predecessor, UNTCOK, after the establishment of opposing regimes in North Korea and South Korea. The UNCOK mandate was terminated in October 1950 with the outbreak of the Korean War.

UNCURK – 07 October 1950 to February 1973 The United Nations Commission on the Unification and the Rehabilitation of Korea was created after the outbreak of the Korean War in 1950 to bring about the establishment of an independent democratic government for all of Korea. UNCURK worked closely and effectively with UNCMAC and monitored UNCMAC’s operations on behalf of the UN. By 1973 however, UNCURK no longer benefited from majority support in the United Nations General Assembly and was dissolved as a result. UNCMAC – 1953 to present The United Nations Command – Military Armistice Commission (UNC-MAC) was created at the end of the Korean War by the UNC in 1953 to represent the UN combatant forces as a signatory to the armistice between the UNC and North Korea, as well as to monitor the armistice. Its acronym notwithstanding, UNCMAC is a multinational, not a United Nations, observation mission whose role is limited to the monitoring of the armistice, the investigation of serious incidents and participation in relevant negotiations by the former belligerents. UNCMAC no longer deploys observers along the ceasefire line since 1978 and has since exercised a very limited diplomatic role.

IN THE SERVICE OF PEACE From 1953 to 1956, 40 Canadian Peacekeepers lost their lives during the UNCURK mission and six from the UNCMAC mission. All told, from 1950 to 1956, 518 Canadians were killed in Korea in war and peace. SERVICE DECORATIONS Service with UNTCOK, UNCOK, UNCURK and UNCMAC is recognised prior to 2001 by the Special Service Medal (SSM) with ‘Peace’ bar or by the Canadian Peacekeeping Service Medal (CPSM) if awarded from 2000. UNCURK service from 27 July 1953 to 27 July 1954 is also recognised by the United Nations Service Medal (UNSM) for Korea. UNCMAC service is not recognised by the UNSM as it was not a UN mission.

SSM UNSM CPSM


22



BACKGROUNDER: THE CONFLICT IN KOREA

At the end of World War II, the Allied powers agreed that Soviet troops would accept the Japanese surrender north of the 38th parallel in Korea and that United States forces would accept it south of that line. The two occupying powers established a joint commission to set up a provisional government for the country, but the commission could not come to an agreement, and the United States brought the matter to the General Assembly in September 1947. In November, the General Assembly created a Temporary Commission on Korea (UNTCOK) to facilitate nationwide elections. However, since the commission was denied access to northern Korea, it was only able to supervise elections in the southern half of the country. These elections took place in May 1948, and in August, the United States transferred governmental and military functions to the duly elected government of the Republic of Korea (ROK). Meanwhile, a separate government was established in the north. In December 1948, the General Assembly, over the objection of the USSR, established a seven-member UN Commission on Korea (UNCOK) to replace the Temporary Commission and to seek reunification.

On 25 June 1950, both UNCOK and the United States informed the Security Council that the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) had attacked the ROK that morning. The council met on the same day and (the USSR being absent at the time in protest against a council decision on Chinese representation) declared the attack to be a breach of the peace. It called for a cease-fire, withdrawal of DPRK forces to the 38th parallel, and the assistance of member states to the ROK. As the fighting continued, the Security Council, on 27 June, recommended that UN members furnish assistance to the ROK to repel the attack and restore peace and security. On the same day, the United States announced that it had ordered its own air and sea forces to give cover and support to the South Korean troops. On July 7, the Security Council voted to recommend that states make forces available to a UN Unified Command under the United States. (It should be noted that although the council had used the language of Chapter VII of the charter—"breach of the peace," etc.—it did not specifically invoke the chapter itself or use its constitutional power thereunder to order all states to comply with its decision.) In all, 16 nations supplied troops: Australia, Belgium, Canada, Colombia, Ethiopia, France, Greece, Luxembourg, Netherlands, New Zealand, Philippines, Thailand, Turkey, South Africa, the United Kingdom, and the US; the ROK also placed its troops under the UN Command.

On 1 August 1950, the USSR returned to the Security Council (having by then been absent for six months) and declared that all the actions and decisions that had previously been taken by the council were illegal. On 6 November, the USSR vetoed a resolution proposed by the United States. As a result of the ensuing deadlock, the General Assembly virtually took over the handling of the entire situation (the Security Council even agreeing unanimously, on 31 January 1951, to remove the item from its agenda). The legalistic device by which the General Assembly voted itself competent to continue with collective measures that under the charter are the exclusive preserve of the Security Council was the Uniting for Peace Resolution.

Even before the Security Council became deadlocked, the General Assembly had considered an agenda item entitled "The Problem of the Independence of Korea." Under this item, it established the Commission for the Unification and Rehabilitation of Korea (UNCURK) to replace UNCOK. Then, on 6 November 1950, events were given a new twist when the People's Republic of China entered the war on the side of the DPRK. The General Assembly promptly added the agenda item entitled "Intervention of the Central People's Government of the People's Republic of China in Korea." Under this item, the General Assembly established the UN Korean Reconstruction Agency (UNKRA) and a three-member Cease-fire Group that included the president of the General Assembly to determine a basis for ending hostilities. Following China's refusal to cooperate, the General Assembly, in February 1951, adopted a resolution that that government had engaged in aggression. It also established a Good Offices Committee and an Additional Measures Committee to supplement the Cease-fire Group. Truce negotiations began in July 1951, but fighting continued until 1953, when an armistice agreement was signed on 27 July. A year later, the General Assembly called for the political conference that had been provided for in the armistice agreement (MAC). The conference was held between April and June 1954, but it failed to resolve problems and negotiate reunification of the country. UNKRA ceased operations in 1960, and UNCURK was dissolved by a consensus vote of the 1973 General Assembly.

On 18 November 1975, the General Assembly adopted two resolutions—one with Western support, the other with that of the Communist states—which were to some extent conflicting but which both favoured dissolution of the UN Command at an early date. The first resolution called for negotiations among the DPRK, the ROK, China, and the United States. The second called for negotiations between the DPRK and the United States. The DPRK declared that it would not participate in negotiations with the ROK. The following countries were still represented on the UN Command (UNC-MAC): Australia, Canada, Philippines, South Korea, Thailand, United Kingdom, and United States.

Source: Quoted from the Encyclopaedia of the Nations – International Peace and Security, Some Case Histories of UN Action at: http://www.nationsencyclopedia.com/index.html


23



CANADIAN CASUALTY FIGURES IN WAR & PEACE (Revised from the October Issue)

(Please note that the sources vary.)

LEST WE FORGET

CONFLICT YEARS CASUALTIES

South African (Boer) War 1899-1902 242

First World War (Great War) 1914-1918 61,332

Second World War 1939-1945 44,893

Korean War 1950-1953 496*

United Nations Peacekeeping 1947-2007 121*

Multinational Peacekeeping 1953-2007 48*

Gulf & Kuwait War 1991-1992 0

European Union Peacekeeping 1991-2007 0

NATO in Somalia 1992-1993 1

NATO in Southwest Asia 2001-2002 6

NATO Peacekeeping in Yugoslavia 2002-2006 12

NATO in Afghanistan 2002-2007 72

TOTAL 1899-2007 107,243

*(Of the 518 casualties, 46 are attributed to peacekeeping in Korea from 1953 to 1955).

WE SHALL REMEMBER THEM


24



BURY ME WITH SOLDIERS

I’ve played a lot of roles in life; I’ve met a lot of men,

I’ve done a lot of things I’d like to think I wouldn’t do again. And though I’m young, I’m old enough to know someday I’ll die.

And to think about what lies beyond, Beside whom I would lie.

Perhaps it doesn’t matter much; Still if I had my choice,

I’d want a grave ‘mongst Soldiers when at last death quells my voice. I’m sick of the hypocrisy of lectures of the wise.

I’ll take the man, with all the flaws, Who goes, through scared, and dies.

The troops I knew were commonplace they didn’t want the war; They fought because their fathers and their fathers had before.

They cursed and killed and wept… God knows they’re easy to deride…

But bury me with men like these: They faced the guns and died.

It’s funny when you think of it, The way we got along.

We’d come form different worlds to live in one where no one belongs, I didn’t even like them all; I’m sure they’d all agree.

Yet I would give my life for them, I know some did from me.

So bury me with soldiers, please, though much maligned they be. Yes, bury me with soldiers, for I miss their company.

We’ll not soon see their likes again; We’ve had our fill of war.

But bury me with men like them till someone else does more.

(AUTHOR UNKNOWN)


25



PEACEKEEPING & REMEMBRANCE

THE CANADIAN TEN-DOLLAR BILL

It occasionally happens that some incredulous or misguided citizen says to me, ‘but you’re too young to be a veteran’! Sometimes, I even get insulted by someone who loudly proclaims; you’re not a real veteran’! When this happens, I calmly ask to see a Canadian Ten-Dollar note. If they don’t have one, I pull out the one that I always carry in my wallet and put it into their hand, look at them strait in the eye and explain what they see on the back of the note.

THIS IMAGE IS NOT LEGAL TENDER

On the left we can see poppies, the international symbol of remembrance. Beside the poppies is a poem, ‘In Flanders Fields’ - a tribute to the fallen. Then we can see two doves, the symbol of peace. Just to the right, a woman soldier is peering through binoculars wearing a Blue Beret, the mark of a Peacekeeper and a symbol of peacekeeping. Behind her is a globe above which is inscribed the words ‘In the Service of Peace’ - a tribute to Peacekeepers. Then we see a cenotaph guarded by male and female soldiers, a monument of remembrance dedicated to all those who have fallen in war and peace operations. Finally, on the right we see an older blue and grey uniformed veteran with his family. ‘Peacekeeping and Remembrance – isn’t that interesting’ I say, leave them the Ten-Dollar Bill, a warm smile, and slowly walk away.

See the following links to the Royal Canadian Mint for more information: http://www.bankofcanada.ca/en/banknotes/general/character/background_10_2001-04.html http://www.bankofcanada.ca/en/banknotes/general/character/background_10_peacekeeping.html http://www.bankofcanada.ca/en/banknotes/general/character/background_10_quotation.html

BE A PROUD VETERAN – WEAR YOUR BLUE BERET!

26



OBITUARIES

Surrey V Chapter Past President Signs Off

John FORSMAN, CD, 1944-2007

Surrey, BC: John Forsman, president of Surrey V Chapter from January 2004 to January 2005, died on the morning of August 10th 2007. He was born in Alberta in 1944. He is survived by his wife Mary, sister, Mary-Lou, three brothers, Gerry, Charlie and Denny. He entered the Soldier Apprentice Training Program in May 1960 graduating as a technician and a marksman shot. John served a tour in the UNEF at Camp Rhafa with time spent at the Sharm el Sheikh. John was a long time member and officer of the Royal Canadian Legion lastly belonging to Branch 6 in Cloverdale. He supported the CPVA 110% and was always there to bear a hand when one was needed. John was an avid ham operator and as late as 2000 received certification for basic 12 WPM Morse code Advanced and was given the call sign VE7CSF.

Hello VE7CSF don’t hold the key open, close down the net. Time to take a well earned rest old friend, out.

The Passing of a Silver Cross Mother

Carol Margaret ISFELD, MSM, 1939-2007

Courtenay, BC: Carol M. Isfeld, née Donaldson in Winnipeg, Manitoba, recipient of the Meritorious Service Medal (Civil Division), the Queen's Jubilee Medal, the Memorial Cross, and who was National Silver Cross mother for the year 2000, died suddenly on 15th August 2007. Carol is remembered fondly for her contribution to Canada and humanitarian causes worldwide through her initiation of the "Izzy Doll", which she continued to crochet after her son MCpl Mark R. Isfeld http://www.isfeldbc.com> was killed while removing landmines during a United Nations mission in Croatia (UNCRO) in 1994. Carol's participation in landmine issues subsequent to Mark's death was Itself significant, but what makes her story truly remarkable was the phenomenon of the "Izzy Doll" which spread across the country, not only providing some solace for children in war torn areas but also became a source of immense satisfaction among many mostly elderly citizens across the land - providing to all who have participated in producing or distributing these dolls a feeling of self worth and satisfaction of accomplishment. Carol's life and contribution to Canada and the children of the world was celebrated near her home in the Comox Valley at a memorial gathering on the 8th of September 2007, appropriately at the school named after her son, MCpl Mark R Isfeld Secondary School, 1551 Lerwick Road, Courtenay, BC V9N 9B5.

Miramichi Chapter Mourns the Passing of a Member

Walter POIRIER, CD

Miramichi, NB: Walter Poirier, a long time member of CPVA Miramichi Chapter passed away recently in Ontario. Walter was in his 70s and served for 35 years in the Canadian Army and the CF. We mourn the passing of a friend and fellow veteran

May they rest in peace

27



DEFINITIONS & TERMINOLOGY

WHO MAY BE CALLED A VETERAN?

The general public perception of a veteran is of an old retired male soldier bedecked with a dozen medals wearing the blue and grey suit of some venerable old comrades association. This is of course, an erroneous view. Most war veterans and peacekeeping veterans became so in their early 20’s. Medals do not define veterans, they reward them. It is not necessary to go to war to become a veteran either. Veterans may be young or old, male or female, military or civilian. A military or police veteran may still be on active service and does not necessarily wear a blue blazer and grey trousers or belong to one of those old veterans’ service organizations.

The origin of the word “veteran”’ comes from the Latin word “veteranus”’ meaning “old, of long experience”. The Romans valued their veteran legionnaires in battle and rewarded them with promotions, higher pay and finally, citizenship and land in retirement. Today, we reward our veterans with service medals and provide them financial compensation and health care.

The dictionary definitions of the word veteran include; “a person who has grown old in or had long experience of, especially military, occupation; ex-serviceman; an old soldier of long service; a former member of the armed forces; a person of long experience in some occupation or skill, a war veteran”.

There are official definitions of a veteran. The older veteran’s service organizations define a veteran principally as a ‘war veteran’ or ‘ancien combattant’ in French. This is misleading and inappropriate nowadays as not all veterans are war veterans. Some are peacekeeping veterans who may, or may not have, experienced combat. Others are long service peacetime veterans who have put their lives at risk to save life and property at home and abroad. There are even ‘Cold War’ veterans who, at the daily risk of life and limb, stood on guard for a war that never came. It should be noted that many so-called war veterans have not seen any combat yet were active in a war zone.

The Royal Canadian Legion states that “a veteran is a person who is serving or has honourably served in the Armed Forces of Canada, the Commonwealth or its wartime allies; or who has served in the Merchant Navy or Ferry command during wartime”. This definition seems to exclude any veteran who did not serve in wartime. This begs the question, what about the warlike peacekeeping missions in the Congo, Cyprus, Sierra Leone, Bosnia, Somalia or Kosovo among others? Many veterans of these operations saw combat in civil wars. Such a definition is unacceptable today because it excludes one veterans group from another and infers that a veteran is exclusively a war veteran.

Veterans Affairs Canada and the Department of National Defence has jointly extended veteran status to former Canadian Forces Regular and Reserve members who “meet a military occupational classification requirement and have been released from the military with an honourable discharge”. This is the all-inclusive and official definition of a military veteran by the Government of Canada. These veterans have equal rights under the New Veterans Charter.

Veterans recognize each other as equals no matter what definition applies to them, where, or how they served, in war or peace. The point is - they saw active service! Although some are still somewhat confused, one thing is certain among military and police veterans, you are either a veteran or you are not. In other words, if you did not serve in some armed capacity in some dangerous situation, you are not a veteran. This being so, a veteran is a veteran is a veteran!

Who may be called a veteran? A word of advice: If you are not sure of a veteran, never say to that person that he or she is not a veteran based on your personal perception of a veteran. You will most certainly insult the veteran, exacerbate their post-traumatic stress condition and make a fool of yourself in the eyes of all veterans and civilians alike. Now, if you are inclined to say such an unpatriotic, ungrateful and ignorant thing, you are certainly not a veteran - shame on you!

YOU MAY CALL ME A VETERAN!

A retired Peacekeeping Veteran

HONOUR... SIMPLY PUT, IS A VETERAN - WHETHER REGULAR FORCE OR RESERVE, ACTIVE OR RETIRED, IS SOMEONE WHO, AT ONE POINT IN THEIR LIFE, WROTE A BLANK CHEQUE MADE PAYABLE TO "THE DOMINION OF CANADA," FOR AN AMOUNT OF “UP TO AND INCLUDING HIS LIFE." THAT IS HONOUR; UNFORTUNATELY THERE ARE WAY TOO MANY PEOPLE IN THIS COUNTRY WHO DO NOT UNDERSTAND IT. --AUTHOR UNKNOWN--

Opinions expressed in The Blue Beret © are not necessarily those of the CPVA. The Editorial Board reserves the right to edit the content of all articles submitted for publication.

28



Veterans Affairs Canada

NEWS RELEASE

August 12, 2007

Canada’s New Government Announces Funding for

Annual Peacekeepers Day Ceremony Ottawa — The Honourable Greg Thompson, Minister of Veterans Affairs announced today a $10,000 contribution to the Canadian Association of Veterans in United Nations Peacekeeping (CAVUNP). The funds, provided through Veterans Affairs Canada’s (VAC) Community Engagement Partnership Fund, supported the Association’s annual Peacekeepers Day Ceremony. “Our Peacekeepers deserve recognition for the tremendous work they have done and continue to do every day,” said Minister Thompson. “These men and women put their lives on the line every time they accept a mission, yet they continue to serve our country proudly. We owe them a tremendous debt of gratitude for their bravery and for their willingness to defend Canadian values.” The ceremony, held today in Calgary, honoured Canadian men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice during peace support operations. During the event, wreaths were laid at the base of the Peacekeepers’ Wall of Honour, a stone structure located in Garrison Green’s Peacekeepers’ Park that bears the names of fallen Peacekeepers. The Community Engagement Partnership Fund provides funding to non-profit groups, educational institutions and other organizations delivering remembrance activities and events. Administered through Veterans Affairs Canada’s “Canada Remembers Program”, contributions are made throughout the year and encompass both national and community-based projects.

Media Enquiries: Janice Summerby Richard Roik Media Relations Advisor Director of Communications Veterans Affairs Canada Office of the Minister of Veterans Affairs 613-992-7468 613-996-4649


29



THE BUFFER ZONE

NEW CPVA OFFICER APPOINTMENT

National Membership Chair

The National Executive welcomes Ed Oursien to the post of National Membership Chair. Ed replaces Kent Stewart effective October 1st 2007. He has proven to be a conscientious and dedicated worker with excellent ideas and a team player with leadership skills. He is looking forward to the future development of the CPVA. Ed’s biography is published in this issue of The Blue Beret.

NEW CPVA MEMBERS

Miramichi Chapter

The Miramichi Chapter, of Miramichi New Brunswick, welcomes Tom O’Keefe as its most recent addition to the CPVA family. Thanks for your support Tom.

UPCOMING CHAPTER ACTIVITIES

NL (Saint-John’s) Chapter

The Newfoundland and Labrador Chapter, Saint-John’s, NL: • Christmas Dinner & Dance on Friday, December 7th 2007; • Fund-raising card game on October 22nd, 2007; • Royal Canadian Legion Branch No. 1 Poppy Campaign from October 25th

to November 11th ; and • Participation in the Remembrance Day Parade on November 11th, 2007.

Miramichi Chapter

The Miramichi Chapter, Miramichi, NB: • Poppy Campaign • Pre-Remembrance Day visits to schools and aging veterans • Remembrance Day Parades in Newcastle, Chatham and Sunny Corner • Chapter social evening and Christmas Dinner, 15 December 2007

Québec Region

The Québec Region, Montreal, QC: • Participation in the Remembrance Day parades and services on

November 10th in Brossard RCL and in Montreal on the 11th, 2007.


30



THE CPVA MEMBERSHIP CHAIR

BIOGRAPHY

Edward OURSIEN, CD

PERSONAL Born in 1942 in Sydney, Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, Ed served with the Canadian Forces for 29 years. After retiring from the CF in 1989, he lived in Calgary, Alberta, where he worked in transportation for eight years. He moved to New Brunswick in 1997 and settled in Beaverbrook, a little community outside of Miramichi, and still lives there today with his wife Helene. Ed has two sons - Philip who lives in Moncton and Peter who lives in Alberta. Ed does volunteer work for the parish church and his hobbies are tying fishing flies, fishing, snow shoeing, carpentry work and the computer.

MILITARY SERVICE Ed joined the Royal Canadian Army Service Corps as a cook and served with 3 Transport and the EBS Battalion in CFB Gagetown, 1 RCHA in Gagetown and Germany, 21 Radar Squadron (twice) in St Margaret’s NB, 3 Field Squadron. Engineers in Chilliwack BC, 2 Svc Bn in Petawawa ON, LdSH in Calgary AB and with CFB Calgary. When he retired, Ed was the Brigade Chief Cook.

VOLUNTEER ORGANIZATIONAL EXPERIENCE Ed was a volunteer fire fighter for six years while stationed at 21 Radar Sqn and was also the Chairman for the Base Foods Safety Committee for three years in Calgary. As well, he was Food Service I/C for the annual Calgary Stampede parade breakfasts sponsored by CFB Calgary. Ed has been the Secretary of the CPVA Miramichi Chapter for five years and has also served as the Chapter Membership Chair – and still continues with the majority of the membership work for the Chapter.

MEDALS AND AWARDS Ed’s decorations include the Special Service Medal (SSM) with the NATO and Alert Bars, the Canadian Peacekeeping Service Medal (CPSM), the UN Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) Medal, the Centennial Medal and the Canadian Decoration (C.D.) with Service Bar. He has been the recipient of the Peacekeeper of the Year Award and the Builder Award from the Miramichi Chapter.


31



KEY POSITIONS

HONORARY APPOINTMENTS CPVA Patron Michael O’REILLY Chief Superintendent (Retired) CPVA Founder Richard BURKE, CD 604-408-1269 CPVA Founder Tom LEONARD, CD [email protected] 250-475-3754

ELECTED DIRECTORS (Executive) President Tom HOPPE, MSC,MB,CD [email protected] 616-542-4988 Vice President Ray KOKKONEN, CD [email protected] 506-627-0217 Secretary Jeff WILLIS, CD [email protected] 613-545-1945 Treasurer Lorne COONEY, CD [email protected] 613-531-3372 Past President (ex-officio) Dave MUNRO, CD [email protected] 250-701-0480

APPOINTED OFFICERS 2nd Vice President Larry GRAY, CD [email protected] 613-253-2006 Membership Chair Ed OURSIEN, CD [email protected] 506-622-1580 Special Assignments Marlowe FRASIER, CD [email protected] 250-391-1375 Communications Officer Karl MOREL, CD [email protected] 514-847-0025 Editor, The Blue Beret Karl MOREL, CD [email protected] 514-847-0025 Webmaster Rodd KENNEDY [email protected] 250-294-0594 Service Officer VACANT

APPOINTED REGIONAL CHAIRS NL Chair Garry BEST [email protected] 709-834-1434 NB/NS/PE Chair Dean LAWRENCE, MMM, CD [email protected] 506-622-1963 QC Chair Karl MOREL, CD [email protected] 514-847-0025 ON Chair Larry GRAY, CD [email protected] 613-253-2006 MB Chair Dale LAMOUREUX, CD [email protected] 204-754-3349 AB Chair Wayne KENNEDY, CD [email protected] 780-865-4332 BC Chair Marlowe FRASER, CD [email protected] 250-391-1375

CHAPTER PRESIDENTS St. John's, NL Chapter Selby LUFFMAN, CD [email protected] 709-368-4273 Miramichi, NB Chapter Jim MUCK, CD [email protected] 506-622-8688 North Edmonton Chapter Wayne CLAYTON, CD [email protected] 780-457-0386 West Central AB Chapter Bob SALT [email protected] 780-865-3743 Surrey, V Chapter Terry HERRETT, CD [email protected] 604-856-4488 British Columbia Chapter Harry STINSON, CD [email protected] 250-658-6311

CHAPTER SECRETARIES St. John's, NL Chapter Helen LUFFMAN [email protected] 709-368-4273 Miramichi, NB Chapter Ed OURSIEN, CD [email protected] 506-622-1580 North Edmonton Chapter John PINSENT, CD [email protected] West Central AB Chapter Bill TOUSSAINT, CD 780-865-2862 Surrey, V Chapter Hugh MESSAGE, CD [email protected] 604-551-6584 British Columbia Chapter Norma THOMPSON [email protected] 250-478-2881

NOTE: The Board of Directors consists of the Executive and the Chapter Presidents.


32

CANADIAN PEACEKEEPING VETERANS ASSOCIATION

ARE YOU A SERVING OR RETIRED MILITARY OR POLICE VETERAN?

If you have served with the Canadian Forces, the RCMP or as a Peace Officer or civilian in operations with the United Nations, NATO, NORAD, the European Union, the African Union, the OAS, the Commonwealth, or another national, multinational or international peace support organisation –

COME REJOIN YOUR COMRADES! We, the military, police officers, and peace officers in Canada, of all ranks, men and women, regular or reserve, all veterans on active service or retired, united together we are :

PROUD TO SERVE, PROUD TO HAVE SERVED CANADA IN THE SERVICE OF PEACE

CPVA Surrey Chapter Photo United Nations Photo

OUR ASSOCIATION: Founded in 1991 by former peacekeepers and federally incorporated in 1993, the Canadian Peacekeeping Veterans Association (CPVA) includes hundreds of peacekeepers and other peace support veterans in every region of Canada. CPVA unites and serves all veterans, whether they served in Canada, in Europe, with the United Nations, with NATO, or with another multinational or international organisation. The association is recognized at the municipal, provincial, national and international levels. Among several other national and international commemorative dates, such as Remembrance Day on November 11th, we observe the 9th of August as our National Peacekeepers Day.

OUR MISSION: To be a strong and leading advocate for all veterans and to create and nurture a forum of comradeship for veterans.

YOUR MEMBERSHIP: The principal requirement for admission is that you are a serving or retired member of the Canadian Forces, the RCMP, provincial or municipal police forces or a peace officer. We accept all veterans..

CONTACT US: You can consult our corporate website for more information and to locate a CPVA chapter near you at: www.cpva.ca., or contact the:

CPVA Membership Chairman: Ed Oursien 1518 Beaverbrook Road, Beaverbrook, NB, E1V 4S1

[email protected] 506-622-1580


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