OC C Sqn Update – February

Major J.L. Cochrane
9 March 2009

 

The final push; this is where we are.

 

We recently conducted the Farewell Parade for all soldiers deploying with TF 1-09 from Edmonton in a lavish ceremony conducted at the Edmonton Garrison Field House; this was followed by the Family Briefs at the WO’s and Sgt’s Mess that provide a great deal of important information to those that were able to attend. For those that weren’t able to attend, we have developed a package that will be sent out over the next couple of weeks that will provide you with the same details as were provided that evening. In addition we will place the presentation and a video copy of the evening’s events on the Strathcona website (www.strathconas.ca) under the Family Support Link. Lastly, I would just like to remind everyone that this information is not just for spouses; it is for parents, grandparents, girlfriends, boyfriends, friends, and relatives. It is provided to ensure that everyone who is concerned about a deployed soldier understands the resources that are available, please feel free to pass it on.

 

I also need to pass along my thanks to the Germany Panzertruppenschule (German Armour School) for all there assistance over the last two serials on the Leopard 2A6M. Although I now believe the three dirties words in the English language are: “German Safety Regulation”, we could not have achieved the level of proficiency on this weapons platform without all their hard work. One of the attached photos is of our now honorary Strathcona - Capt Nils Potten.

 

The Sqn has completed its long and extensive training that has occurred in various parts of the globe. Whether it was Texas, Germany, Quebec, or Wainwright the Sqn has trained hard and performed extremely well gaining the respect of all those it has worked with. I am extremely privileged to have the opportunity to work with such a dedicated and motivated team. We now have the opportunity to put our skills to use and do what we have trained to do - “provide security and stability to the Afghan people”, with the aim of allowing them to develop their country into a safe and prosperous nation.

 

I would like to congratulate several members of the Sqn who were recently promoted. These include:

To Tpr(T):
Tpr(T) Burke
Tpr(T) Blain
Tpr(T) McGovern
Tpr(T) Kabongo

 

To MCpl :
MCpl Ramage

 

To Sgt:
Sgt Moon
Sgt Sanduliak

 

To Capt:
Capt Kallos (aka Barf)

 

Lastly I would once again like to express my gratitude to the families and friends of the Sqn’s soldiers, without you looking after things at home; we could not do what we do. Your efforts allow us to stay focused on the job at hand. Enjoy the opportunity to spend some time with your family and friends over the few next weeks.

 

Perseverance.