Falcon Spring 2006 CMYK internet.indd - 48th Highlanders of Canada

FIGHTING COMPANY...continued from page 1III ranges, C9 and C6 ranges and additionalELOC training (mine awareness, grenades,navigation).30 Sep -2 Oct 05 – Exercise Able Warrior IIThis weekend was conducted in Bordenand run by the Queens Own Rifles. Thisweekend was a repeat of Exercise AbleWarrior II with the goal of ensuring thatindividuals who did not complete the firstweekend finished the training. Individualswho passed the ranges on the first weekendwere given the opportunity to practice themost basic soldier skill by getting more rangetime.14-16 Oct 05 – Exercise Aggressive Viper IThis weekend was conducted in Meafordand run by the 48th Highlanders. This wasour first opportunity to learn new “urbanoperation” skills needed for being effectivein conducting operations in a “full spectrumwar” environment. This was set up as standtraining with soldiers within the companylearning to do Vehicle Check Points, UrbanPatrolling, Cordon and Search Operationsat the Section level, extracting woundedpersonnel within an urban environment, firstaid, room clearance drills and clearing a “killhouse” using simulated ammunition. Officersand Senior NCO’s conducted additionaltraining in dealing with the media and thecapabilities and organization of Intelligenceassets employed in overseas operations.4-6 Nov 05 – Remembrance Day WeekendMembers of the Company had anopportunity to meet with unit veteranson the Friday night and learn about theirexperiences within the Regiment andoverseas. On the 6th the unit mountedour traditional Remembrance Day Paradeat Queens Park. Unit veterans turned out inlarge numbers for this event and participatedin the march back to Moss Park Armourieswith the unit. On Nov 11th the soldiers weretreated to a talk by RSM (CWO) CrookCD a Korean War Veteran giving a candiddiscussion on his experiences in Korea. Allof these experiences were appreciated bymembers of A Company and served to bringthem closer to our veterans and gave them agreater understanding of the sacrificed madeby members of our unit and the CanadianMilitary as a whole.Some well known faces enjoying the Alpha Coy Dinner, 4 February 2006. Photo by Corporal Hum.18 – 20 Nov 05 – Exercise Aggressive Viper IIThis weekend was conducted in Edgarand run by the 48th Highlanders. For manyof us this was the first opportunity to use thistraining facility. It was a unique opportunityto employ the basic skills developed inExercise Aggressive Viper I in a small townenvironment. Edgar was ideal for this trainingas it is a self-contained site with sixty oddhouses of various types as well as schools,government facilities, warehouses and acommunity centre. The company had theopportunity to practice camp security, urbanpatrolling, quick reaction force operationsand cordon and searches at the platoon andcompany level.2-3 Dec 05 – Exercise Crimson TideA Company provided a platoon andindividual augmentees to support the BrigadeDomestic Response Unit Exercise held inToronto. Operations were mounted out ofMoss Park Armouries, Fort York Armouriesand the Toronto docklands. Training focusedon conducting camp security, escorting VIP’s,establishing rest and first aid stations, houseclearing drills, and the handling of mediaand civilians. This exercise afforded soldierswithin the Brigade the opportunity to workwith each other while in the public eye and togain some valuable experience in coordinatingwith the Toronto Police Force.27-29 Jan 06 - Exercise Cold AdderThis exercise was conducted inTraining Centre Meaford and run by the48th Highlanders. This exercise providedthe troops with a chance to get familiarwith winter warfare operations. Trainingconcentrated on cross country movement,tent routine and familiarization with crosscountry skis and observation equipment.Training Centre Meaford would usually beideal for this training but due to the warmweather, the troops were treated to a generousdose of mud to go with their snow. Onthe Sunday, the troops enjoyed a leisurelystroll back to the quarters in Training CentreMeaford while sharing “pro tips” amongsteach other.As you can see, A Company has had abusy training year. It has been challengingbut rewarding time for us and all membersof the company are looking forward to thegreater challenges that will be coming laterthis spring and summer.I would like congratulate the followingsoldiers on their recent promotions: LtMartinis, 2Lt Laurella, WO Carswell, WOKwok, Sgt Vienneau, MCpl Baptiste, MCplBennett, MCpl Curtis, MCpl Oliynykov,Cpl Kowalenko. In addition, we would liketo welcome back several soldiers recentlyreturning from Afganistan and to bid goodluck to several others who are in the processof deploying overseas. As well, specialmention should be given to Sgt Vienneauwho received the Deputy Chief of DefenseStaff Commendation in January for his workon Operation PALLADIUM Roto 13.Capt Harry PedwellOC A Coy48th Highlanders of CanadaThis issue of the FALCON published by:Col (Ret’d) Bill JensenDirectorSgt (Ret’d) Adam BernardDesign & AssemblyIf you would like to contribute to future issuesplease e-mail your stories andpictures to: falcon48@sympatico.caor call Adam Bernard @ 416-652-6121THANK YOU to those who’ve submittedarticles, letters, ideas and photos.3 THE FALCON, SPRING 2006

From the Archives -Events of Springtimes Past––––––––––––––––––by HLCol Geordie Beal40 Years Ago – On 20 May 1966 theregiment moved to its current location, MossPark Armoury, parading from a temporaryhome of two years at Fort York Armoury. Inthe 115 years since the founding of the 48thHighlanders in 1891, the regiment has beenin just four locations. For the first three yearshome was on the north side of King Street justwest of our regimental church, St. Andrew’s.Here, the 48th spent these formative years inbuildings vacated in 1891 by Upper CanadaCollege when they moved to their presentlocation in Deer Park on University above St.Clair Avenue. For the next 69 years the 48thoccupied a magnificent and imposing red brickarmoury on University Avenue, until as part ofa decade of demolishing heritage buildingsacross Toronto for modern glass structures, theDepartment of National Defence put UniversityAvenue Armouries into the wrecker’s hands.Ottawa’s plan was to scatter the units to sitesaround Toronto, some to Denison Avenue andthe 48th to Warden and Eglinton. There wouldbe no units in downtown Toronto.Armed with research that showed thedisastrous implications of this plan, BrigadiersEric Haldenby and Ian Johnston, both war timecommanding officers of the 48th Highlanders,took the argument directly to Prime MinisterJohn Diefenbaker. Other units made similarefforts and, supported by a public profile raisedby The Toronto Telegram and its publisherJohn Bassett, the decision was reversed. Thenfor almost two years, while waiting for MossPark Armoury to be constructed, the 48thwere welcomed into Fort York Armoury by theToronto Scottish who generously offered toshare their messes and facilities. Finally, fortytwo years ago this spring the regiment cameto Moss Park, to be reunited with the unitswith whom we had shared University AvenueArmouries for decades, the Queens Own Riflesand 7th Field Artillery.60 Years Ago – On 26 May 1946, in frontof the Regiment, family and thousands ofcitizens, the Governor-General, His Excellency,Field Marshall Viscount Alexander of Tunis,KG GCB GCMG GSI DSO MC opened the 48thHighlanders Memorial Hall. The building,formerly the site of the Granite Club, was to bethe home of the 48th Highlanders Associationfor the next 27 years. The Association with itsprimary role as stated then, and as it is today,“the welfare of the regiment” was comprisedof the Old Comrades Association, 48th ChapterIODE, Ladies Auxiliary, Officers Associationand the Regiment. In 1973, the City of Torontodeclared the building structurally unsoundand the Association was forced to move theMemorial Hall to a new location on KingStreet. However, “structurally unsound” mustbe a relative term as, if one were to go to 519Church Street today, you will find the buildingstanding and occupied.65 Years Ago – On March 8, 1941 Capt. PhillipFroude Seagram, who had served with the 48thsince 1934, was killed in a bombing attack bythe Luftwaffe which demolished the Café deParis in London, England. Captain Seagram,the first officer of the 48th Highlanders killedin World War II had been on leave from theregiment to attend the Junior Staff Courseat the War College. He was buried with fullmilitary honours in Brookwood Cemetery.In May 1941 the 1st Canadian Division wasauthorized to wear the Red Patch in the field.This red, rectangular battle patch, worn onthe sleeve just under the 48th Highlanders ofCanada shoulder insignia, had been first puton in 1916 by the 1st Division to which the15th Battalion (48th Highlanders of Canada)belonged just prior to the battle of the Somme.When putting up the red patch in 1941 RSMFrank Jamieson told the Highlanders on paradeof the significance. The 48th Highlanders werethe only battalion to wear the Red Patch inboth wars.75 Years Ago – In 1931 the Permanent Forcein Canada was a total of just 3688. The militia(reserves) were larger but were also underpressure with government funding beingslashed due to the recession. The responseof the 48th Highlanders was to pay theirown way, with officers donating their payfor the men. Private donations were sought,and made, to ensure that the regiment couldtrain in uniforms and at locations that wereappropriate. Through the depression theregiment grew and citizens of Toronto couldsee the continuing strength of their 48thHighlanders by the numbers on parade.90 Years Ago – On 19 May 1916, Lt. Col.W.R. Marshall, DSO was killed in action atYpres. There the battalion had returned to thespot where they had been gassed just thirteenmonths earlier, losing 661 Highlanders – killed,injured or missing. Marshall then a Major andDCO had won his DSO by rallying and leadingthe rear company and other small groups ofsoldiers to create a flank position, repellingsuccessive waves of German assaults. Nowin 1916 and as Commanding Officer, ColonelMarshall was preparing battle plans for thebattalion’s attack near Mont Sorrel. Movingthrough the trenches, perhaps to get a betterview of the enemy lines, some as close as 50metres, he was spotted by a sniper crossinga low point in the revetments. Marshall waskilled instantly. A fine portrait of ColonelMarshall hangs today in the Officers Mess.First Regiment, First Love...continued from page 1real men!Stu Montgomery... W.O. 2 and C.S.M. BCoy (my Company), was to me the epitomeof “a real soldier”. There were others: Cpl.Norm Quinn, Cpl Elms (Coy drummer), WO1 (R.S.M.) Wigmore... splendid companyindeed.Once Kilted, I joined the ranks of “Baker”Company and the adventure began. Aguard of honour to open The Royal WinterFair... Armistice Day and the parade to theRegimental Memorial... Niagara-on-the-Lakeand all the troops aboard the Cayuga... wakingat Reveille to “Johnny Cope”... drying ourkilts on the walls of our Bell Tent... the crackof rifle fire at Long Branch... all of this andmore, to a very impressionable young soldier,were each in their own turn, an unforgettableexperience.But what will stay with me is that thrillwhen, in column of route, for the first time,I marched through those great doors ofUniversity Avenue Armoury, in kilt and whiteshell, behind the pipes and drums, and as wewheeled right, seeing my Dad by the curbsidewith his County Cap over his heart as theColours passed. Surely there can’t be manythrills greater than that in life.So then – this soldier has come home,because – as sure as I’m here, you can take thesoldier out of the Highlanders, but you willnever take the Highlander out of the soldier.DileasWANTED!Volunteers for the 48th Highlanders Museum.This is a good way to meet people and learnabout the history of this great Regiment.Wednesdays or Thursdays.CONTACT Tom Thompson AT 705-722-0250THE FALCON, SPRING 2006 4

YEAR OF THE VET COIN...continued from page 1major branches in the Canadian Armed Forcesand different periods of service. Herb andAngela were featured with their photographicimages morphing into the engraved imageson the coin. RSM Doug Chappelle was alsofront and centre in the commercial marchingproudly toward the camera. The artist whoengraved the image for the coin replaced Herb’sglengarry with the more generic beret of theArmed Forces and if you look closely both capbadges have been replaced as well.With the collector coin the mint includeda Certificate of Authenticity and a movingdescription of the service and sacrifice that thecoin honours. Extracts read:To go wherever we’re needed…To do whatever is asked of us.A son leaves for duty, a mother weeps. Throughsorrowful tears, a sister whispers “goodbye,”knowing she will break her promise and alsoleave home. She too feels driven to serve.Across Canada, this scenario played out incountless homes as two World Wars andthe Korean War stirred a great sense ofhumanity in the hearts of Canadians. Manyfelt compelled to act, to rush to the aid of theoppressed and join the fight for freedom.These were the times that bravery and selfsacrificefound their true definition. Thesoldier’s ability to find courage in the depthsof despair is a concept that is difficult toconceive in the comfort of modern freedom. Itis a virtue that must never be forgotten – onethat deserves open respect and admiration.Honour those who willingly chose to serve– Canada’s heroes of the past, present andfuture.Herbert James Pike, today’s President ofthe 48th Highlanders Life Members, joinedthe Canadian Infantry Corp in 1942 at the ageof 18. He was following a family tradition ofservice. His father, also Herbert James, hadserved in The First War in the artillery. He waspart of George Drew’s battery (subsequentlyPremier of Ontario) and won the MM as aSergeant and the MC as a Captain.“I was badged 48th from the beginning,”Herb says proudly. Following basic training inGuelph he did advanced training in Stratfordstaying on several months as an instructor.From there he was transferred to Ipperwashas Battle Drill Instructor. In mid 1943 he leftfor England, arriving in Aldershot just afterthe regiment had departed for their landing atPachino in July. Herb followed quickly, sailing toPhilipville in Algeria to the 1st ReinforcementGroup then on draft to the front to join the48th Highlanders in October, just after thebattalion took the town of Campobasso.Joining as a Corporal (although he had beena Sergeant at Ipperwash) Herb became partof Able Company, being promoted to Sergeantfollowing the December battles of CemeteryHill flanking Ortona. He remained with Ablein Italy as the battalion fought through the LiriValley, the Hitler Line, The Gothic and RiminiLines and the Lamone River crossing. He wastransferred to C Company as CQMS just priorto the battalion leaving Italy in March 1945 andremained with them through The Netherlands.Herb returned home with the 1st Battalion on01 Oct 1945.In recalling these years Herb stated quietly,“These were some of the best years of my life,with guys that I will never forget.” In the Yearof the Veteran, the Canadian Mint asked allCanadians to “never forget”. To those of usfortunate to know Herb, and the other veteransof our regiment, it will be our privilege to carryout this request.A Letter fromThe Monte Cassino SocietyNovember 8, 2005Dear Mr. Thompson,I am writing to let you know of the MonteCassino Society, an association which I andtwo other daughters of Cassino veteransare establishing. The aim of the society isto continue and further an interest in theexperiences of those who took part in thebattles of Monte Cassino and the surroundingbattles of the Italian Campaign.At a time when a number WW2 veteransassociations are closing, we feel strongly thatthe experiences of the veterans of Cassinoand of the Italian Campaign should not beforgotten. Through the efforts of interestedsons, daughters and relatives, we hope toachieve this aim.We would like to hear from veterans whowere at Cassino or elsewhere in Italy and wouldbe very interested in an recollections andmemoirs they would be willing to share withus. We would also like to hear from relatives ofthe veterans who share in our desire to furtheran interest in the veterans’ experience.We would be very greatful if you could passalong our message to your membership.Those who would like to know more of oursociety’s aims and objectives may contact usby email at info@themontecassinosociety.orgor by telephone at 416-921-0921, or by mail atRR 5, Orangeville, Ontario. Canada L9W 2Z2.Yours sincerely,Rosalind Gallowayrosalindgalloway@themontecassinosociety.orgWOULD YOU LIKE TO ADVERTISEIN THE NEXT FALCON?Full Page - $600 Half Page - $300Quarter Page - $150 One Eighth Page - $75FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACTAdam Bernard at falcon48@sympatico.ca or 416-652-61215 THE FALCON, SPRING 2006

Awards and Honours – Medals and Citations in Regimental MuseumThe 48th Highlanders Museum proudly displays medals earned by 48thHighlanders and donated, in most part, by the families of those whoserved with our Regiment. For those medals earned through awardsand honours the museum has copies of the citations written as theoriginal submissions for the awards. These are placed in a binder andare available as part of the display of medals to be read by the visitingpublic.On this page are examples of three such citations, earned by 48thHighlanders well known to any who have read our regimental historiesor just listened to stories related in the messes. In this, and upcomingissues of The Falcon, we plan to include citations illustrating the rangeof awards and honours in the museum.In the museum, we are planning a major upgrade of our medalsdisplay, details of which can be found in another article in this issue ofThe Falcon. It is our desire and intent that every set of medals in themuseum will show the 48th Highlander who earned them – a pictureof the individual, some regimental and personal history, the citation(for awards and honours) and the details of how they earned service orother medals. Naturally, we will be looking for volunteers to help withthe research into these Highlanders. If you would like to help as part ofour team, contact the museum during our open days – Wednesday andThursday, 10 am to 3 pm at (416) 596-1382.AWARD of BRITISH EMPIRE MEDAL toB. 73628 Sergeant (Pipe Major)Andrew ANDERSONCanadian Infantry CorpsPipe Major Anderson enlisted in the 48thHighlanders of Canada in 1922 as a Piper,having being receiving instruction for theprevious year from the then Pipe Major. Hisservice from the outset was such as to drawthe admiration of his superior officers andby dint of much arduous and painstakingwork, continuously from 1922 to the outbreakof war, earned for himself the appointmentof Pipe Major. In this capacity his servicehas been unexcelled during the nearly fiveyears with the battalion overseas. Throughall the difficulties and trials of the war hehas consistently maintained within the banda very high standard of soldiering, with theresult that the esprit de corps of the battalionis in no small measure due to the pipe majorhimself.AWARD of THE MILITARY CROSS toCaptain William Glenn ANGUSCanadian Infantry CorpsOn the night of 10/11 December 1944, the48th Highlanders of Canada made an assaultcrossing of the Lamone river at MR 413348,this river has dykes some 30 feet high, slopingto the water at approximately 45 degrees; andwith the enemy solidly dug in along the top ofthe dyke and in the fields behind, presented aformidable obstacle. “A” company was leadingcompany in this assault, and Captain WilliamGlenn Angus commanded the leading platoon.The moment his platoon appeared over ourbank with their assault boats, a withering firewas brought down on them from MG posts atpoint blank range across the river. Rallyinghis men, this officer quickly had the boatslaunched and on their way across. He wasamongst the first to land and personally led theplatoon storming up the 30 foot dyke into thethick of the enemy positions. So inspiring washis leader ship and so determined the assaultcontinued on page 11AWARD of MEMBER OF THEORDER OF THE BRITISH EMPIRE toB. 485003 Warrant Officer Class II(Quartermaster Sergeant)Oscar Prior ARDAGHCanadian Infantry CorpsThis Warrant Officer has served continuouslyin the non-permanent active militia with the48th Highlanders of Canada for a period offorty-one years. Prior to 1914 he was injuredin a train wreck near Streetsville, Ontario,whilst returning to Toronto with his regimentfrom manoeuvres. As a result of these injuries,he was unable to proceed overseas with hisbattalion in 1914. Despite this fact, he hasmaintained a keen and active interest in reservearmy activities over a period of many years. Hehas taken extreme pride in the performance ofall his duties and has spent hundreds of hoursof his own time in keeping battalion recordsaccurate and up to date. His loyal and unselfishservice have been of inestimable value to theregiment, and he has set a splendid exampleto all ranks.THE FALCON, SPRING 2006 6

Regimental Museum PlanningNew Display For Medals––––––––––––––––––by HLCol Geordie Bealwill be comprised of medals,name, rank and a smallBy the end of the year the 48th HighlandersMuseum will have a new display that notonly increases the visual impact of the setsof medals that the museum is honoured tohave in its collection but provides the visitingpublic with the capability to learn about the48th Highlanders who earned them. All thisis made possible by a donation from a formerHighlander in honour of his parents.Our current collection has over 130 sets ofmedals representing periods of service from1891. Included are medals from South Africa,two World Wars, actions in Canada and abroad,commemoration medals and those for longservice. The existing display in the museum hasbecome progressively more crowded as moresets have been donated. Although the sightof these medals in one large display cabinetis impressive, the ability of visitors and 48thHighlander family members to understandthem in any depth has been lost.The new display is being developed byDesign in Three Dimensions; the firm thathelped us design the museum in 1997 forour move into St. Andrew’s Church. The totaldisplay will have three components, a displaycabinet, accessible storage and a computersystem.DISPLAY CABINETFirst will be a new display cabinet on the wall.This cabinet will feature up to 20 sets of medalsagainst a graphic background portraying the115 years of service of the regiment. Thesesets will be representative of the collectionas a whole. It will include all ranks: Generals,Officers, NCOs and ORs. The display will showall the major awards of the British HonoursSystem with the exception of the Victoria Crossand most of the Commemorative and ServiceMedals. The layout will be three dimensionalallowing for each set to be shown with clarityand impact.Prominent in the display will be ahighlighted space for “Featured Medals”. Thiswill allow one set of medals to be honoured ona rotating basis – monthly or quarterly. ThisFeatured Medals area will show the medal set,a picture of the 48th Highlander who earnedthem plus name and rank.Every set of medals in the display cabinetphotograph. Additionallythere will be a codingsystem using numbers andshapes or colours. Thesecodes will relate to thenames of the medals (eg:Military Cross, CanadianDecoration), to the typeof medal (eg: Orders,Decorations, Peace,C o m m e m o r a t i v e ,Service) and to the individual Highlander.Below is a preliminary design as an example.COL G.M. Malone MC ED02 08 11 17 21 28Elements of the design and copy in thecabinet will direct the visitor to the othercomponents of the total medals display, thestorage cabinet or computer. Copy and designelements will help the visitor move easily to thesubject that holds their greatest interest.STORAGE CABINETBelow the wall display will be a storagecabinet comprised of drawers that can bepulled out by the visitor. Each drawer willcontain several medal sets, with the samename, rank and coding system as in the upperdisplay cabinet. A glass lid will secure eachdrawer, allowing the visitor to see but nottouch. Medals will be placed alphabetically bythe Highlander’s name. As more sets of medalsare donated they will fill remaining spaces.Ifrequired another cabinet module can be addedeasily.COMPUTER SYSTEMA touch screen computer will be integratedinto the overall display. The computer will beself contained with a data base of informationon hard drive and/or CD as appropriate.Information will be both specific to our 48thHighlander sets and medals in general andlinked by the coding system in the displays.Our goal will be to begin with informationreadily on hand and expand it over time toinclude:INDIVIDUALS• Each individual represented in ourcollection• Biographies, citations, photographs,military service, medals. This data can beexpanded to include individuals whose medalsare not in the collection.MEDALS• Each type of medal in the collection• Terms, descriptions, picturesGENERAL INFORMATION• Introduction, types of medals• The Canadian and British Honour System• Order of Precedence• Mounting and WearingDONATIONS ARE WELCOMEFUNDS :When the design is finalized the museumwill be mounting a fund-raising campaign.Elements of the display will be costed andindividuals can sponsor elements. Details ofthe fund-raising will be forthcoming in thenext issue of The Falcon. However, shouldanyone wish to start earlier, donations can bemade to 48th Highlanders Trusts and mailedto 39 Wanless Crescent, Toronto, M4N 3B6 ordropped off at the armoury.MEDALS:Medals, as always, should remain with theperson who earned them. This principle of themuseum has been stated clearly since RSMBill Elms and Lt. Col. Mike George foundedthe museum fifty years ago. However, as MajorAndy LeMesurier made equally clear, medalscan be left to the museum by bequest. Andyencouraged all he knew to find out if theirchildren wished to retain their parent’s medals,or if it would be more appropriate to bequeaththem to the museum. Once decided, a simpleletter, signed and dated, can be placed withone’s will. Questions or donations should bedirected to HLCol Geordie Beal through the48th Highlanders Trusts. The museum willhonour the medals. And, by communicating tovisitors and members of the greater Regimentalfamily the stories of the deeds of service ofthe 48th Highlander who earned them, themuseum will keep their honour visible andvital for the generations who enjoy the libertieswe have today.7 THE FALCON, SPRING 2006

OUR LEADERSHIP IN SWITZERLAND!It has be brought to our attention that this noteworthyevent didn’t get its full dues, the following is a letterfrom Major-General H.M. Petras, Chief of Reservesand Cadets:LETTER OF REPORT: MWO Mcintyre PWG48th Highlanders Of Canada - Kloten Training Campand Aesor Military Skills Competition 04-27 June20051. MWO McIntyre represented Canadian reservistsas a participant in the Canadian (Kloten) TrainingCamp and the AESOR Military Skills team competition(heptathlon). The competition, a series of seven highlytechnical events, required months of personal trainingThe Kilt Goof––––––––––––––––––by Norm CromieDuring the fall of 39 I paraded around in civilian clothes for a coupleof weeks then the word came one afternoon, report to quartermasterstores which was in University armories, where I would be issued myuniform and equipment which was full highland dress. I could hardlybelieve my ears. I sat passively on a bench waiting for my name to becalled. I then marched into quarter stores, which was full of crownsand stripes from WW1 and others. One of these military Gods wasa kindly old ruddy-faced quartermaster who said hold out your armsand he loaded me down with kilt, boots, web, hose tops, Glengarry,sporran and so many other things. God almighty I thought with allthis gear and a nine and a half pound le Enfield rifle Geez if I ever falldown, shit I will never be able to get up again and will probably missthe whole damn war.I struggled back to the group that I was with and began sortingout and trying to understand what in the hell everything was for. IfI had been a true Scot and worth my Haggis I would have knownwithout having to ask anyone. So when I held up my hose tops, as youknow they have no feet in them just a strap crossed the instep, I wasdumbfounded. A crusty old soldier behind me who had came fromNew York to join the Canadian army and was like a character out ofthe dead end kids leaned over to me and in a very serious voice saidGod Mac, they have given you defective merchandise you don’t have totake that shit. Go right back and give the quarters Hell. As his namewas Joe Cambell I thought there must have been some Scots knowledgewithin him. So I raced back to stores, right up to the head of the lineand through my hose tops on the front of the counter and with thevoice of indignation voiced my complaint to that kindly old WW1soldier. But, when the ruddy complexion on his face changed to avolcanic red I knew I had made a very very grave error. I now realizedwhat the term (in deep shit meant) I can tell you those hose tops andmyself made an exit from that room that would have put Jesse Owensto shame. I can still hear his voice ringing in my ears and I think inmy haste what he was saying “Somebody get that crazy son of a bitchout of here before I kill him.”Once outside I had to brace myself against the Army wall as I wasshaking and trembling so much. I now knew what the meaning of thatold saying was. That War is Hell.as well as participation in the grueling two-weektraining camp. The competition itself was an intense2 day contest of determination, skills and strength ofcharacter.2. The team coach found MWO McIntyre to bean enthusiastic individual who performed very wellduring the training camp and displayed tremendousimprovement in skills and techical ability.3. The competition team the MWO McIntyrecompeted on matched him with two reservists fromBeauport and Halifax. This team had only the twoweek period before the competition to bond anddevelop a team strategy. Obviously this team wasable to meet their objectives. The team finished firstin the Guest Nation category narrowly defeating astrong Finnish team. The Canadians won the precisionshooting/biathlon event, the zodiac event, and thewater obstacle/flat swim event - achieving the bestTHE FALCON, SPRING 2006 8time of any team in the competition. Other nationsin the guest category were Finland, a German CIORteam, and the international team of Canada, France,and Spain. The Canadian team did well enough tofinish 5th overall amongst the 30 teams entered in thecompetition.4. MWO McIntyre should be congratulated for hiseffort and personal achievement. He is an exceptionalathlete and an admirable ambassador for Canada andthe CF who would be a welcome addition to futuremilitary skills competitive teams. I would like topersonally thank and congratulate MWO McIntyrefor his participation, dedication and success inSwitzerland.H.M. PetrasMajor-GeneralChief of Reserves and CadetsMiracle in the rubble. Katrina topples church,but left window intact––––––––––––––––––Matt Hartley, NATIONAL POSTSaturday, December 24, 2005When Hurricane Katrina tore through theU.S. Gulf Coast in August, it killed morethan 1,300 people, destroyed vast swaths of four states and caused more thanUS$80-billion in damage. At the Episcopal Church of the Redeemer in Biloxi, Miss.,all that was left was a single stained glass window. Reverend Harold Roberts, thechurch’s Toronto-born pastor, believes in the significance of the survival of the redand gold window that once hung over the entrance to his house of worship. “I’m nota fundamentalist, but these kinds of things speak to the miracle of some of the stuffthat goes on in the travesties of the lives shattered by the storm,” Rev. Roberts, 61,said from his new home in Biloxi. He and his wife, Jan, lived next to the church untilAugust.The house and everything the Roberts family owned -- save for the couple’s fourcats -- were destroyed when Katrina hit. “The church was like the house, there reallywasn’t much identifiable after the storm,” said Rev. Roberts, who lived most of hislife in Toronto before moving to the Gulf Coast in 1997. “But this window was foundessentially intact.” One of Rev. Roberts’ flock pulled the window from the rubble in thedays after the storm passed. The window rested on the flatbed of a truck while Rev.Roberts led a service for the congregation at the church ruins the Sunday following thestorm. This isn’t even the first time the little congregation has had to rebuild. In 1969,Hurricane Camille -- which killed about 150 people in the Gulf Coast area -- levelledthe original church.Before bulldozers could clear away what was left of the structure, parishionerscombed the debris to salvage fragments of the ornate stained-glass windows thechurch had housed. Three composite windows were fashioned from the shardspulled from the ruins, one of which featured salvaged fragments of the face andhands of Jesus. “It really was a welcoming face when you came into the church and anembracing face as you left,” Rev. Roberts said. The window has since been stored forsafekeeping by a congregant until the church decides how to rebuild again.Meanwhile, Rev. Roberts has been holding Sunday services for the 120 membersof his congregation in the gymnasium of a local public school. But with most of hisparishioners still living in trailers and temporary housing, Rev. Roberts said he is morefocused on bringing his people together for the holidays. “That’s the great unknown,”he said. “How do you make Christmas special? We decided we would let the messageof Christmas -- its simplicity-- speak for itself. “This has been a faith builder on awhole,” he said of the costliest disaster in U.S. history. “People are experiencing loveand kindness and encouragement and support. I don’t think anybody blames Godfor the storm. “We just continue to thank God that we are all alive and all together.”Material reprinted with the express permission of: “National Post Company”, a CanWest Partnership.

Old Comrades AssociationSUMMARY OF 2005:President Tom White made the RemembranceDinner his top priority and with theassistance of Vice President Harry Wignallmade it a much appreciated event. The wholeweekend was attended by many of our WW2veterans and their families. 2005 was “TheYear of the Veteran”. Our dinner was a tributeto the Highland veterans who gave so muchand they certainly deserved all that we coulddo for them in return.Tom’s second priority was the veteransreturn to Holland. Although this was nota co-ordinated trip the many segmants allreturned with happy memories and greattales.The Old Comrades Association thanks allsections of the regimental family for theirsupport for the events. The Regimental Trustfinanced the major part of our RemembranceDay events.The annual barbeque held in early Julyin Acton was a real success again this year.Many thanks to those Highlanders who madedonations to help the Continuing Sergeantsand the O.C.A. to stage this event in 2005.Life Members meetings, Drill Teammeetings and parades were well attendedand once again the Drill Team and ColourParty won an award on Warriors Day at theC.N.E.We lost a lot of Highlanders to the uppercamp in 2005. They will all be missed at theevents planned in 2006.The Old Comrades Association elections arecompleted and the results are as follows:President – Harry WignallVice President – John DunneTreasurer – Ken WalduckSecretary – no volunteer as yetThe new executive takes office officially onApril 21, 2006.CADILLAC DRAWOver recent years the appeal of the CadillacDraw in its current format has been declining.As the draw has been an important fundraisingvehicle for the Regiment the OfficersAssociation are looking at other formatsand approaches that supporters of the 48thHighlanders would find more relevant totoday’s unit and its roles. Look for more newsin the next addition of The Falcon for anevent, perhaps as early as this fall.Our Cadets Win Gold!––––––––––––––––––by Capt Norman R. PopeAt the Cadet Zone Shoot at HMCS York, on February 26,2006 the 48th Cadet Rifle Team struck Gold.Seen, receiving their Gold Medals (from left to right) Team Members: Cdt N. Zhang, MCplA. Fillipov, Cpl M. Hanlon, Cpl K. Gibbons-Cummings, and MCpl J. Ouellet; supported byAssistant Coaches, MCpl Hines, and MCpl Vargas.Individual categories were also won by:Open: MCpl J. Ouellet - Gold (Over-all Top Shot); Cdt N. Zhang - BronzeJunior: Cpl K. Gibbons-Cummings - Gold; Cpl M. Hanlon - Silver.A tremendous effort and improvement over past years. For this we can thank our ShootingCoach, 2Lt Greg Sych, himself a qualified Olympic marksman.Norman R. Pope, CDCaptainCommanding Officer48th Highlanders of CanadaArmy Cadet CorpsA snapshot from the A Company Dinner, 4 February 2006, left to right:WO John Tescione (Ret’d), Cpl “CJ” Mason (Ret’d), Sgt Brian Kwok, Sgt John Martin9 THE FALCON, SPRING 2006

WHERE ARE THEY NOW?DARREN MELLORS––––––––––––––––––submitted by Douglass Chappell, 9 Mar 20061 year ago, my businesspartner and I started“Grenadier Precision,Ltd. Co.” here in HondoTX. We are a very smalldefence contractorspecializing in smallarms. The newsworthyreport is that we areon the verge of signing a letter of intent tomerge with Leitner-Wise Rifle Company inAlexandria VA. In this year along with Leitner-Wise we have designed the next generationof infantry small arms using the Colt M4 as abasis but with radical functional, and handlingimprovements of the M4/M16. Our rifles areconventional, but incorporate a short strokeself regulating gas piston instead of a directimpingement gas tube that funnels gas andcarbon into the working action of the weapon.We also had to develop and accessory rail toreplace the handguard allowing attachmentof various accessories, providing ventillation,protection, and access to the gas system andbarrel.This makes it run cleaner, cooler, far morereliable, gives it almost no recoil or muzzlerise, and the free floating the barrel makesit accurate beyond a typical service rifle. Itserves as a bridge from outmoded small armsto radical new technology being developed thatis still many years away. If you can imagine,the test mule has fired 71,500 rounds withno cleaning except for pulling through thebarrel intermittantly. We don’t suggest peopledo not clean weapons, but it does serve as ademonstration that the operator can be theweak link in whether his weapon works or not.We are currently on the verge of acontract with the USMC IM-SRR (small armsreplacement program)for 250,000 weapons,in the latest ARMY ARDEC TACOM smallarms trials, with the USAF pararescue, DOD(Embassy Security Anti terror teams). Wehave weapons in service already in Iraq andAfganistan with the 5th, 3rd and 7th specialforces groups.Those who are familliar with the CanadianC7 or US M16, especially with NATO 62grSS109 or M855 as they call it in the USA,know that it has proven a poor caliber choicein those loadings that can require severalshots to incapacitate the enemy, esp. fromcarbines. Good illustrations of this can befound with survivors of the US Army’s failedcapture of Aidid in Somalia. Soldiers havebeen lost to the anemic 5.56 round in Iraq andAfganistan as well. One example illustratedin an airforce after action reported 3 airmenon force protection duties in Iraq were shot,one killed after they had put 3 rounds of5.56 into the terrorist, center of mass. Theproblems with 5.56 is exaggerated by theshorter barrel lengths of the M4 carbine as theM855 ammunition requires very high muzzlevelocity to ensure fragmentation. Velocitiesare reduced when using a short barreledweapon. We have thus championed the 6.8SPC (special purpose cartridge) whichcan be employed in carbines almostidentical to the 5.56 carbines. The 6.8projectile is just short of a 30 caliber. 6.8Ball projectiles are typically 110 gr. Itsterminal ballistics are not effected by theshort barrels of the carbines the Armedforces are demanding for their urbanintense vehicle bourne operations.I have attached pictures of our weaponsso you can see what I am speaking of.This carbine has a barrel length of 10.5”and is in 6.8 SPC. Effective for clearingbuildings and equally effective inaccurately engaging the enemy at 400mwith virtually no loss of terminal ballistics asit does not rely on projectile fragmentationand velocity alone. That makes it a very broadrange weapon in such a small package.I don’t know what it is about the 48thHighlanders. It seems to bring out the bestin all those who have worn the uniform. Iwas lucky enough to serve a few years in theinfantry, blew out my knees on a course run bythe Airborne and had to remuster to weaponstech for the remainder of my service with the48th. I suppose this experience has served mewell with experience as a grunt and a weaponstech. I give my comrades and the unit 100%credit for the way I raise my children, thevalues I cherish, and the person I am. The48th warrior ethos seems to breed good heartycitizens. The Highlanders that came before usget credit for our freedom. This may soundegocentric, almost like bragging, but a daydoesn’t go by that I am not inspired by theregiment and those who came before me. Afterall, we are a proud bunch.My life long get out of jail free card is themotto “Dileas Gu Brath.” It has never let medown, nor have my comrades. It has carriedme through the good times and the hard times,esp. when I have felt sorry for myself only tothink of the couragous soldiers of the 48thwho sacrificed so much more than I couldever dream of. My heart sinks with every lastpost that Douglass sends as though a familymember has died, but I am relieved to know,they lived a full life with the lifetime friendshipof thier comrades, both living and fallen. Iam empowered by emails about comradeswho do good works, like those recently takenup by a comrade in Louisianna. The mottoin practice is contagious. Treat people in amanner congruent with the motto and theyreciprocate.I spent the better part of the previous 10years running an Emergency room in SanAntonio TX and pursuing small arms designon the side. To some, the work I am doing nowis in complete contrast of what I have donepreviously. I do not see it that way. Eitherway, the goal is to save lives. No doubt, somewill disagree, but I ask myself what a youngsoldier with a jam prone ross rifle would havethought when facing down a German infantrybattallion. Whether one likes it or not, westill send young warfighters into battle andthey deserve the best we can offer. They don’tchoose the fight, nor do they decide what theyare to use in battle.Sincerely,Darren Mellors (1988-1995)Dileas Gu BrathTHE FALCON, SPRING 2006 10

CONFINED TO BARRACKSWe have seven Highlanders currently in Sunnybrook Hospital.J. CC Jack Hughes Nelson Liston George MasonSunnybrook - K2C Sunnybrook - K3E Sunnybrook - K2WRm. 16 Rm. 21 Rm. 33Norm McMurrich G. Ron Pallett Sgt. Ed CaneSunnybrook - K3W Sunnybrook - K2E Sunnybrook - K2WRm. 33 Rm. 10 Rm. 4Naury RosenblathSunnybrook - K2CRm. 16In hospital, Special Care, Nursing units or confined to home we also have the following:Don Burr (recent heart surgery) Dave Logan ( at home ) Ed Forest ( at home )8662 Arkona Road, R.R. #2 32 Frimette Cres. 54 Walkerville Rd.Thedford, Ontario N0M 2N0 Toronto, Ontario Markham, Ontario519-296-2899 M6N 4W6 416-782-8809dburr@execulink.comW. Carothers ( at home ) G. E. Colton (at home ) Don McCron ( at home )269 Upper Highland Cres 220 Principal St. 318 Sunset Blvd.Willowdale, Ontario Fort Coulonge, Quebec Stouffville, Ontario416-225-2852 819-683-2323 905-642-2312Jack PickeringSgt. Lloyd Tucker (Drummer)130 New Densmore Road, Suite 526 Baycrest Hospital, 7 West HospitalCobourg, Ont., K9A 5W2Rm. 4, 3560 Bathurst St.905-377-8475 Please call Mrs Pat Tucker before 10 a.m. before visitAWARDS & HONOURS...continued from page 6that the platoon had very soon accomplishedits initial task, which was to clear the enemybank for a length of 300 yards. In doing this,9 enemy mg posts were routed, thus freeingthe crossing point of aimed small arms firefor the remainder of the battalion. Leavingpart of his platoon to hold this area, CaptainAngus then immediately organized a fightingpatrol to seek out and destroy further enemy.With complete disregard for his own safety hestruck into an area known to be mined, he soonfound the enemy who resisted his intentionvigorously with small arms fire, rifle and handgrenades. In spite of this opposition, and in thelead throughout, this gallant and determinedofficer charged and captured 5 further enemypositions, each a section in strength, personallykilling 3 Germans. Throughout this actionCaptain Angus displayed a most inspiringcourage and a matchless initiative anddetermination. His action, over and above theterms of his orders in exploiting into enemyterritory, ensured the successful crossing andsubsequent exploitation of the reminder of thebattalion, his aggressive spirit resulted in thecapture by himself and his platoon of 48 of theenemy in this operation and the killing of anumber of others.Keith (K.C.) JacksonLeisure World Care Giving CentreRoom 233, 2005 Lawrence Ave. WestToronto, Phone # 416-247-6612We also have the following who have health problems but are still able to get out andaround.Al Harris ( on oxygen ) Art Johnson ( at home )259 Dunlop St., W., Apt. 607 37 Winstanley Cres.Barrie, Ont., L4N 4S7Scarborough, Ontario705-737-0489 416-282-8430e-mail: dileas@aol.comPrivate Kieth Perera of the 48th Highlanders of Canadastays alert at a vehicle check point during ExerciseAGGRESSIVE VIPER 2 in Edgar, Ontario.Photo by Cpl Phil Cheung, 32 Canadian Brigade GroupJack McKenna14924 Yonge St, Suite 304Aurora, Ontario905-841-3906There may be other Highlanders but we are not aware of them at this time.When we are advised of any others we will advise you.- Tommy ThompsonMaster Corporal Corey Bennett of The 48th Highlandersof Canada tests the new night vision goggles duringExercise Cold Adder in LFCATC Meaford.Photo by Cpl Phil Cheung, 32 CBG Public Affairs11 THE FALCON, SPRING 2006

SCHEDULE OF THE 48TH HIGHLANDERS OF CANADA REGIMENTAL FAMILYTue 4 AprO.C.A. Life Members Meeting 12:30 noon, Drill Team Meeting 7:30 pm, Sergeant's Mess Moss Park ArmouryThr 20 AprAnnual General Meeting of the 48th Highlanders Association, 8:30 pm @ Sgt’s Mess, includes IODE, Ladies Aux., OCA and Officers Assoc.28 - 30 Apr EX Iron Talon I – prep for EX VG 06 this summer in PetawawaTue 2 MayO.C.A. Life Members Meeting 12:30 noon, Drill Team Meeting 7:30 pm, Sergeant's Mess Moss Park Armoury5 - 7 May D-Day Dodgers Weekend, R.C.L. Branch 34 in Orillia. OCA Drill Team on parade 10:30 AM at the Soldiers MemorialSun 7 MayRegimental Church Parade12 - 14 May EX Iron Talon II – prep for EX VG 06 this summer in PetawawaSun 28 MayPipes and Drums Wine and Cheese Social. At 1 PM in the band room at Moss Park armouriesSat 3 JuneAnnual Officers Mess DinnerTue 6 JuneO.C.A. Life Members Meeting 12:30 noon, Drill Team Meeting 7:30 pm, Sergeant's Mess Moss Park Armoury21 June - 2 July Pipes and Drums – Poland (tentative)Tue 4 JulyO.C.A. Drill Team Meeting 7:30 pm, Sergeant's Mess Moss Park Armoury7 July – 22 July Pipes and Drums – EdmontonTue 1 AugO.C.A. Drill Team Meeting 7:30 pm, Sergeant's Mess Moss Park Armoury20 - 25 Sept Pipes and Drums – Loon Mountain, Cleveland, OhioSun 22 OctO.C.A. Drill Team visits Sunnybrook HospitalDon GrahamLAST POSTThe following Highlanders passed away recently:Edward (Ed) MartinRichard (Dick) KenzieJean Stewart CrookGlorien “Pete” BergeronMajor Joseph Henry PottsNovember 29, 2005 LondonJanuary 20, 2006 TorontoFebruary 11, 2006 KitchenerFebruary 14, 2006 MississaugaFebruary 15, 2006 TorontoFebruary 26, 2006 TorontoWilliam (Bill) Anderson March 13, 2006 PickeringWilliam A. Church B-907612Brydon M Cruickshank B-133300John A. High B-100674MAJOR THE HONOURABLE MR. JUSTICEJOSEPH HENRY POTTS SOSTJ, CD, Q.C.,KCLJ, OCM, BA., MA., LL.M.February 26, 200612Edward (Ed) Martin January 20, 2006Richard (Dick) Kenzie February 11, 2006Glorien “Pete” Bergeron February 15, 2006photos on this page submitted by Douglass Chappell