Greetings from C Squadron

2 June 2008

Ladies and Gentlemen, on the 29th of May the official change of command for C Squadron took place seeing myself, Major John Cochrane, and Warrant Officer Richard Stacey assume command from Major Trevor Gosselin and Master Warrant Officer Geoffrey Bamford. This Change of Command took place following an extremely successful tour of duty in Afghanistan by C Squadron of which the entire Strathcona family can be proud. This success was not however without its cost and the tragic deaths of Corporal Nathan Hornburg and Trooper Michael Hayakaze in support of the Afghan people will never be forgotten.

In keeping with the tradition established by our predecessors, this is the first of what I hope to be monthly instalments to provide to you some insight into the life and training of the Squadron. The squadron will also be publishing weekly articles on this web page as well as numerous photos in order to give you a closer look at what we are up to.

The squadron has had a large turnover of personnel and is currently getting itself prepared for what will prove to be an extremely busy upcoming 18 months. The squadron is getting organized for an upcoming PCF guncamp, a simulation exercise in Valcartier, the Regimental Change of Command, Calgary Stampede, Spruce Meadows, and an upcoming exercise in Wainwright – all before the end of July! Following the July exercise the squadron will take a well deserved break for the month of August before heading back into a busy fall training period.

For many families this will be the first time that their loved ones are preparing for an overseas tour. I ask you to be understanding at the amount of training that is being conducted. Although it may at times seem excessive, I assure you that it is all with the intent of ensuring that your husband, wife, son, daughter, father, or mother is as prepared as we can make them for this mission. They will at times be tired and cranky, but when we deploy they will be fully prepared for what lies ahead.

I look forward to working with each and every soldier in the Squadron. I have had the pleasure of spending my entire career as a member of Lord Strathcona’s Horse (Royal Canadians) and can say with total assurance that they are the best soldiers in the Canadian Forces. It is a long road ahead, but I cannot think of a more capable and dedicated team that has the skills and professionalism to meet any challenge head on.

Perseverance.