Regimental Museum Report Strathcona Mounted Troop Report

Letters Letters continuedCongrats on another fine issue, keep ’emcoming. It’s always a pleasure to receive mycopy, but some of the names are not familiarnow, but the letters from us old guys dobring back many memories. Of course, theLast Trumpet Call column saddens one,when we read of another old friend SOS.It’s so good to see letters from old familiarnames, like Sean Henry. I rememberwhen I actually out-ranked Sean. I was aSergeant and he was a young Corporal inthe BCD’s. We were attending a wirelesscourse at the School in Borden in the early50s. What a fine young soldier he was and Iwas glad to see him commissioned andwatch him rise through the ranks.I attended a Strathcona gathering in theOkanagan Falls last September and washappy to meet many old friends, includingVic Binnie, the other Vic (the bad one)looking chipper. I snapped a photo of himwith Col Deane-Freeman.I’m still writing books, I call them “freebooks” for I seem to give more away than Isell. I have just finished another volumeand will be starting on a very explicit warnovel, which will not be for the squeamish.I do a lot of world travelling and cruising,and in two days I’m off again to SouthernMexico, to a little town called Aijijic (pronouncedah-hee-hic) on Lake Chapalawhere I have adopted a Mexican family with5 children age 5 to 16. My new beautifulgrandchildren are helping them throughschool and university.Must close now and pack my shorts andT-shirts, off to the land of palm trees andsunburn. All the very best to my old friendsfor a great 2002. Bless you all.PerseveranceVic ChildsWest Bank, BC(Hope you have a wonderful trip andhave fun with the adopted family.Thanks for donation. Ed)I have received my fall copy of theNewsletter. Having attended the Reunion2000 and joined the Association AlbertaBranch as an associate member I now lookforward to the Newsletter with anticipation.I still look back with fondness and asense of awe at the Reunion. The only disappointingpart was that my old buddyTheo Fundas had passed away, but I hadthe pleasure of making the acquaintance ofJohn Randall from Saskatoon and wecontinue to correspond.If you wish to recognize who I am andTheo Fundas look in Col McAvity’s book“A Record of Achievement” at the picturesbetween pages 140 and 141 at theheading “B” Squadron Kitchen at Viserba.The fella standing is I, and the one sitting isTheo Fundas.I am enclosing and a little for theNewsletter. Keep them coming. Yours trulyJim CurtisToronto, ON(Glad you enjoyed the 2000 Reunionand hope you have started planning forPage fourthe 2005 Reunion. Thanks for yourdonation. Ed)Not sure how you only got part of myaddress I will send it again by email. Myhusband Edward (Ted) Grand is nolonger with us he passed away 16 June2001 I miss him terribly. We talked aboutthe war so much and a lot of other memories,for I was in the British Army ATS.We met on the ship Maloga heading forNorth Africa, during those 10 days on thehigh seas I got to know a lot of the hisfriends in the regiment, and again in Italywhere I spent 2 years. I have just finishedreading Wallace’s book “The Dragons ofSteel”, what memoirs. I still like to keep upmy membership in the Strathcona Familyand enjoy getting all the news. The lastevent that we attended was for SamuelSteele Memorial in Orillia, what a wonderfulshow the Straths put on, and thosebeautiful horses, Keep up the good work.keeping us widows in touch. I feel verymuch a part of the Straths.Ellen GrandTottenham, ON(Thanks for the update of youraddress and glad you enjoy the Newsletter.Ed)Upon receiving my Fall Newsletter andimmediately reading every word from pageto page brought back many memories andnames.I arrived at the Regiment in Jan 1955 atthe youthful age of 17 (seventeen). Wewere placed in the old “H” huts at the Northend of Currie Barracks Calgary, where welearned, as recruits, the Strathcona way.Finally in May of 1955 we finished ourdepot and recruit training and were postedto “C” Sqn.I am enclosing pictures of my passing outparade, perhaps for publication or thearchives. The class of recruits were: –‘Russ’ Brinn, ‘Lee’ Garner, JohnKnight, ‘Howie Owens, Jim Powell,Harry Promm, “Boots’ Schuh, ‘Dad’Smith (I believe transferred to RCASC),D.E. Smith.The Recruit Squad instructors were: – Lt–continued on page 5Strathcona’s Newsletter

Letters Letters continuedC.C. Van Straubanzee, Sgt ‘Pat’ Patterson(or was it “Black’ Patterson, SgtGord Beattie (a soldiers, soldier), CplKen Dent and LCpl Ron Fisher.I also attended the Sam Steele memorialand dedication ceremonies at Fair Valley,Orillia and found it very emotionalwhen the Guidon was trooped on parade,particularly when so many of the “OldGuard” in attendance “snapped to” withshouts of “perseverance” and a properpalm out salute.Also in this issue (Newsletter) I see thename of ‘Pat’ Searle, I was his tank driver(Centurion) CS 2B in Wainwright 1956. Ibelieve the other crew members to be:–L/Cpl Jack Wreggit and Tpr ‘Russ’Brinn. I also worked for Sgt ‘Scotty’Miller in D&M Wing and Billy May wasthe “C” Sqn SSM.Enough nostalgia or you will be reading atear-stained letter.Damn Proud to be a Strathcona.John KnightShanty Bay, ON(Thank you for sharing your journeydown memory lane. Ed)In the Fall 2000 Newsletter on page 15 isthe name Colin Anderson a Strathconaand a Viet Nam Peacekeeping veteran. Iwould like to write to this man, as I too ama Viet Nam veteran.As a Corporal in the Strathconas I was“on loan” to the Department of ExternalAffairs, holding a diplomatic passport andstationed in Hanoi as part of the securityteam for the Canadian Embassy.With a locked briefcase, handcuffed tomy wrist, I would get on a very old,extremely rickety and very scary AirFrance aircraft, (I think it was built beforeWW2). My flight took me across Laos intoCambodia where we landed in PhnomPenn. There a Canadian Embassy officialwould take out and or add more papers.The aircraft would then take off and fly toSaigon. A white car (all peacekeepingvehicles were painted white, with noinsignia or flag) would then take me to theEmbassy. After an overnight stay at a hotel,Strathcona’s NewsletterI would make the return trip the next day,same route opposite directions. I wouldmake this trip usually once every twoweeks, but it always scared the hell out ofme, because I expected the aircraft to crashevery time we took off or landed. The planealways bounced, shook, banged and rattledso badly, I was sure it was going to fly apart.Thank God we had a good Canadianaircraft that flew us back home viaCyprus, where we had a five-day stopoverin a very posh hotel. Then on to the Azoreswhere we landed at a huge American airbasefor a five hour stop. Then on toOttawa and then (by train) to Calgaryand home to Currie Barracks.PerseveranceArt KunstmanStettler. AB(Sounds like a script from a 007movie. Thanks for the donation. Ed)Enclosed is a small donation to the Societyto help them keep up their good work.I’ve also enclosed the LFP article from thelocal paper, which is really good press for achange and thought you folks may enjoy it.I also took note of your request for“Whatever” for future Newsletters and as Ithoroughly enjoy getting them thought Ihad better do “Whatever”, so here is a littlereflection!Headlines in the London Free Press 62years ago, in January 1940, “Crack WesternRegiment arrives in London”. What anevent for London and as you know fromDick Cunniffe’s book “The LostSquadron” story, the Strathcona draftbecame “B” Squadron 1st CanadianCavalry Regiment (Mechanized). Asour first evening free “our gang”, Armer,McQuarrie, Glass, Clark and myselffound ourselves at a big dance at theMasonic Hall on Queens Ave and as theysay “the rest is history”I took my wife out to dinner the othernight, to celebrate our first meeting at thisMasonic Hall that night so many years ago.When we returned home I pulled an old“B” Sqn photograph, taken at QueensPark on the 2nd May 1940, and I can stillrecall the names of the entire group. Thenthe events of the past started: the variousand enjoyable training, even route marches,map reading and on and on; like thetime the whole gang were confined to barracksbecause of the “Meningitis” scare. Iwonder too about all the troops in thephoto, 4 Officers’ and 101 other ranks. Iknow Des Deane-Freeman is the onlyofficer still with us and maybe 10 or 12 ofthe OR’s. How many remember having oneor two route marches interrupted by a coffee/teabreak in one of our officer’s home?What is it they say “no names no packdrill”? Wonderland Gardens (open airdancing to the big bands), known to a goodmany of the boys, is still there although it isbigger with a larger covered dance floor.Although Iris and I don’t dance too oftenthese days but have attended the odd “GuyLombardo’s night there. Maybe FrankClifford, Frank Haley, Lou Eyres, JoeLank may still remember, maybe even VicBinnie.I’ve nothing to report on any of the localStrathconas, except for Jack Newtonwho is still in Parkwood Hospital anddoes manage to get home for the odd weekendand special occasions.I note with sadness the passing of manyold friends in the last Newsletter and wouldadd Ken Sample who passed away September2001; Ken was the younger brotherof Morley Sample.Best regards to all and do keep up thegood work.Hugh MackieLondon, ON(Thanks Hugh for your flash backmemories so vividly recalled. Do youhave Lou Eyres address? Thanks for thedonation. Ed)Received the Newsletter yesterday, readit and enjoyed it very much. You are alldoing a wonderful job in putting out a greatLETTER and keeping us informed aboutour old comrades and friends.If you are in touch with Gord McKayyou can tell him that I received my LS&GCmedal in 1955, but was short by one-yearservice to qualify for the Canadian ForcesService Decoration. The enclosed donationis for the Newsletter with thanks;again, for the great work you are all doing.Perseverance.Bill McCullochBurnaby, BC(I’ll let this Newsletter inform Gordabout your decoration and medal qualifications.Thank you for your kind commentsand the donation. Ed)Jock Burton’s interesting “VancouverIsland Report” in your Fall 2001 editioncontains a mistake I should correct. MyDSO was not awarded for the Point 204action but for a later action in the advancefrom Arnhem. Even I did not know thisuntil a long time after the war when I got acopy of the citation. Despite this, I havealways regarded the decoration as a form ofrecognition of the excellent work done byall members of “B” Squadron, especiallyon Point 204 (Page 322 in Colonel McAvity’sbook). In addition to the officers listedby Colonel Burton as being killed or wounded,casualties also included Trooper A. G.Roper, who was killed, and twelve otherranks. Although only one tank was lost, itwas a severely depleted squadron thatLieutenant Wayne Spencer, the ActingSquadron Commander and sole remainingofficer, led off the hill on 1 September1944.It is of interest that Lieutenant Spencerhanded over the squadron to then CaptainBurton, who was in charge of the LOB (left–continued on page 7Page five

Once Upon A Time There Was A Subaltern continuedBty Group: enemy tanks were sighted, contactreported, then the enemy over-ran theCoy-Bty HQ. The information never made itdown from Bde. Lesson learned – we beganto carry extra 510-sets and sat on coy frequenciesas a ‘back-up courtesy’.An anecdotal aside: Sgt Colby Yeomansrecalls one exercise where ‘Find “A” Sqn’(the enemy) was an all day task. “A completetank sqn should not be too difficult tofind – but we never did find it. Some saythey were in the tank hangers in MainCamp. I can recall being parked at the bottomof the hill near Jamieson Lake lookingup at those hangers. There wasn’t asmuch as a wisp of smoke or dust. Theywere there apparently – just as well I didn’tgo into the camp or Len Goebel’s and AlMinette’d have bagged me.That would have been really embarrassing.I think there was no dishonour in beingout-smarted by ‘the Great One’.Major ‘Danny’ McLeod, OC “A” Sqn’confirmed Colby’s hunch. The recordbecomes a tangle of ego however, Gen‘Chris’ Vokes with the challenge contactedDanny: “Can you move your “F” Ech andhide them in Main Camp?” (He inferredthat he wanted to steal a march on BrigWrinch who commanded the friendlyforce). Danny’s response in the affirmativeresulted in the movement of all Sqn tanksBefore the veterans of the ItalianCampaign peg out there is an incident thatoccurred to the survivors of Cobra II on23 or 24 September 1944. If the story ofthis incident is true, and I hope that it is, itprovides us with a wonderful example ofthe good things that can be done when reasonablemen reason together and, on rareoccasions, drinking together.On 23 September 1944 “C” Sqn Strathconaswas supporting the PrincessLouise Dragoon Guards (we called themthe Plugs) in a Brigade operation. 1stTroop, led by Lt W.E. Ralston was one ofthe leading troops. The Plugs were encounteringheavy MG fire and could notadvance over a line of railway tracks so LtRalston moved forward in his tank tosearch for the enemy. His tank got into ahole, or soft ground and he could not extricatethe tank. His Troop Sergeant, SgtCostello, moved over to attempt to recoverthe bogged tank. His tank was hit byanti-tank fire and Costello and anothermember of the crew were killed. Mr. Ralstonthen decided to take over the TroopCorporal’s tank, Cobra II, with the intentionof joining the other leading troop. Thetroop Corporal of Cobra 11, Cpl. Lake,stayed with the Ralston’s bogged tank.Sometime later, Ralston paused to orienthimself. His tank was either under a largeat 0330 hrs from Sqn harbours to hangersin camp. In low gear the engine and tracknoise was minimal. Trucks then obliteratedtank tracks. If any Recce did enter MainCamp, the hangers were to be marked w/“Atomic Security – No Access” signs.The following afternoon they erupted intothe rear of Brig. Wrinch’s force, and theexercise came to a halt before it had begun.Vokes had succeeded in embarrassing hisjunior. We were the pawns in the game.Lesson learned?This initiative/ingenuity was infectious inRecce as well. There was a large area southof Blue Route (extension) which wasavoided by all if possible. Map reading wasdifficult and compasses were often in error.We took a ‘slack’ day and marked this areaw/stakes to allow us an edge in exercises tocome.An aside: Sgt ‘Pat’ Searle waded/swamthe Ribstone to get ‘enemy dispositions’ inthe Border Lake area. He re-crossed andre-joined his driver, then called in a SITREPthat forced a pause in the exercise whilethe ‘enemy’ re-deployed. A feather in hiscap indeed.An aside: Sgt ‘Pat’ Patterson recalls thefinale. 2nd Troop went out on a wirelessexercise that lasted some 36 hours withoutrelief (sleep). The regimental motto wastested with success. Despite muttering (aTHE COBRA II STORYtree or close to one, when it came undermortar fire, killing Ralston and Tpr Barnettand wounding Tprs Stachera andWood N.J.1st Troop began the battle boldly but itwas quickly put out of action by a veryexperienced enemy force that had wellcoordinatedfirepower. Our losses in lifeand in tanks were swift and brutal.And this sets the scene for this story. Onthe move from Italy to North WestEurope, someone in the group I was leadingtold me about the triumphant achievementof the survivors of Cobra II.After losing Mr. Ralston and Tpr Barnett,the survivors of Cobra II started to look forshelter and they decided to check out ahouse nearby. When they reached thehouse, the entrance door opened to revealGerman soldiers manning a MachineGun. Our comrades were invited to enter.Germans, as we know, are generoushosts. Someone produced some Vino and aparty eventually happened. The two groupsspoke “soldier-Italian” to each other.Sometime in the evening a consensus developedamong the Wehrmacht side that perhapsthere was an opportunity to get out ofthe awfulness of the war by surrendering tothe Canadians. The German NCO was notpersuaded. He was sure that his duty was todeliver his prisoners to his superiors. TheGerman soldiers went to work on theirtroopers’ right) – the hours passed. (Ibelieved we ought to do this before arrivalin Europe. Capt ‘Bill’ Ward’s experiences inKorea were a major reason in such anextended test of efficiency.) With NCO’slike mine we could do it. Later we went forclose to 48 hours in BAOR exercises inGermany.The Wainwright Concentration ’57focussed a serious conundrum thatremained with us for the next two years:how was information to be accessed –‘Seek and Peek’ or ‘Push and Get’. Tacticalapproaches would be different; the formerwould force ingenuity without aggression.The questions of degrees ofassertiveness would be disputed throughoutour tour with NATO in 4C1BG. Observationof American, Belgian, and Britishequipment resulted in envy. The optionsavailable to our allies (Exercise enemies)were possible due to their equipment. Thesilence in Ottawa concerning our politicalwill to measure up to our commitment toNATO was deafening. (We were fortunatenonetheless in being the recipients of ‘salutaryneglect’ rather than the political meddlingof the past twenty-odd years.)In this manner “Recce” Sqn returned toCurrie Barracks, went on leave, and preparedfor rotation to Fort Chambly as partof 4CIBG.leader, plying him with drink until he couldno longer resist their intention.In the morning the Germans and theirprisoners formed up and marched towardsthe Canadian lines. The German NCOinsisted on escorting the Strathcona prisonersuntil they reached our lines. In duecourse a sentry challenged the group fromthe Plugs. They halted and exchangedweapons. I am told it was a very emotionalmoment. These guys were now firm buddies.After much hand shaking, and bearhugs the Cobra II survivors led their Germanprisoners into the Plug defenses.Another problem arose. Some of thePlugs had suffered from the enemy resistancethe day previous and wanted to seekrevenge. A row broke out between theStraths and the Plugs before cooler headsprevailed.If my description of this episode is generallytrue, I think it deserves to be verifiedand put into the historical records. I knowthat at Armistice and at Christmas weare often reminded of the British and Germansoldiers of World War I who entertainedeach other with Christmas carolsand eventually played soccer. When I hearthose stories, I think of the story I heardabout the survivors of Cobra II in 1st Troop,C Squadron.–continued on page 12Page 8Strathcona’s Newsletter

LdSH(RC) Association (Alberta Branch) ReportYour Committee for 2002 has DonCrossman as President, Peter Wonderham– Vice President, Gary Lee – Treasurer/Membership,Keith ‘Slider’ Welch –Social Director, Dave Cathcart – Museum,Jerry Cluett – Hospital and the Secretary’sposition is still vacant. Ken Vivianstepped down as Membership, as othercommitments require more of his time thanhe had anticipated. Thank you ALL for yourwork in 2001. The Annual General Meetingcontained a full agenda and all membershave received a letter and year-endfinancial statement.There were a number of members awardedLifetime Membership they are: BobBartlet, LGen J Fox, MGen J Gardner,LGen J Gutknecht, Mr W Howard,‘Mucker’ Langan, Bill May, Col J McAvity,LGen W Milroy, MGen C Milner,MGen P Neatby, Nic Nicolay, and LordStrathcona. The Association welcomedfour new Honoury Members; Earl Cady,‘Vic’ Binnie, Col Des Deane-Freeman,and ‘Shad’ Shadbolt. A distinguished andwell deserving group.People – Places – Things.Our Vice Peter Wonderham – has drafteda very informative and valuable informationpackage for Spousal use in the event ofyour partners death. It will be available in2003 (on request only). The document iseasy to read and understand with currentFederal and Provincial departmentphone numbers. It contains many helpfulhints and reminders on benefits you areentitled to and who to call.ID MacKay’s famous luncheons are stillheld at the Horton Road #285 Legion,and the Old Guard appreciates the Regimentallowing soldiers’ time to come downand share stories. Greatly appreciated.Barry Pridge our condolences on theloss of your Stepfather (a Strathcona) January2002.Mrs Jeanette Clark – to you and yourfamily our condolences. We also feel theloss of a long time, dear friend ‘Nobby’.Reunion 2005 – A Questionnaire will besent with the Fall Newsletter and please fillit out as best you can, it is a Valuable documentfor the committee planning thisevent. Early, Yes, but much of the planningneeds to be done early.Donations to the Association – Weare very grateful to the many generousmembers for their donations and you canbe assured the monies are spent wisely.Membership – Our membership couldbe increased with your much needed help.This Association is the one that plans andorganizes the Reunions, and as a memberyou will receive first hand information andthe best registration fee.Orley Whalen – writes, sadly I just lostanother brother, leaving only Gord andmyself out of 9 brothers. Gord and Aliceare both doing well. To you and your families,we send our condolences.LGen Fox, LCol Ellis and RSM Bienerhave been very supportive of the Associationover the past years. It is also importantto recognize their spouses Caroline,Suzanne, and Sandy who unselfishly giveof their time and support. Thanks to all ofyou. The President also was very gratefulfor your personal guidance on many issues.Bill May – Purchased a Brick on behalfof the Association in support of the NewColonel Belcher Hospital. Thanks Sir.Father Greene – continues to visitacross the country keeping in touch withStrathcona Family members.Breckenreid’s Rick, Danae, and Codyfrom Nicosia Cyprus send their best wishesto ALL for the New Year.Orillia Legion holds a “D” DayDodgers celebration each year Honouringa specific unit, both serving and formermembers. In 2000 they honoured theStrathconas. Their next celebration is 10to 12 May 02. Good work, keep it going.Iris Derenowski – writes, Peter hasbeen in the Nursing Home for three yearsnow. He requires a lot of care, as he can notdo much for himself.Frank Thiessen – He will be undergoingsome surgery in Feb 02. Good LuckFrank and a quick recovery.1813 LdSH (RC) Cranbrook CadetCorp – looking for financial support to paydown their hall mortgage, perhaps you canhelp, we have.E-mail – the Regiment is monitoring oursite through their web page just click the Society bar thenthe Alberta Branch link.Earl Cady – sold his house in six hours,a record I think and he is moving just downthe road.Larry Adams – writes, Dave Ryan,Doug McPherson, Charlie Van Luvenremain in good standing with the KVA. Thethree of us attended the 2000 Reunionand marvel at the great experience andenjoyable time we had, we really appreciatethe efforts of the committee. We’re readyfor 2005.Dick Hudson – writes, had two brokenfingers and a bone above the knuckle. Acast was put on but very uncomfortable andwas replaced after Xmas making it hard towrite. Harder still is watching out for Shad.It is obvious to me as President thatthere are still some very strong and dedicatedStrathconas out there showing theirsupport to the Alberta Association Branch.You may not be aware how important andthe significance this support is to the Executive.It is not only the MANY memberswho give donations but the letters givingMORAL support that is appreciated too.Your 2002 Committee is ready and willingto carry on with Association business andcontinue Reunion 2005 planning on yourbehalf. Over the last few years many of ourmembers have passed on and I encouragetheir spouse to maintain a link to the Association.I saw many widows, widowers atReunion 2000 who were delighted theyattended.Be Good to your self, we’ll talk in the fall.PLAY SAFE, AND ENJOY YOUR SUM-MER.Don CrossmanPresidentVancouver Island ReportGreetings from the Left Coast or Canada’sGreat South West. John Burtoninsists that he is pressed for time and asked(?) that I pen this missive.A short note about our little group thatwe call “Strathconas and Friends”. Whenwe sit for our Moreuil Wood luncheon weare a mixed bag, with medics, posties,mechanics, pay types and the other blackhat Regiments. There is even an ex gunneror so. The attached personnel had atone time or another served with the Regimentand of course the other black hattersattend in order to raise their standing in thecommunity. But enough of that.With deep regrets I mention that LindyKukans widow, Millie, passed away on 15Dec 01. Lindy was my driver in Egypt andhe could turn 26 ozs of Rye into 2 gals ofSlivovitch at the drop of a hat since hespoke Yugoslav.There is not much real news out here. ISuppose we’re all a bit older and some ailinga little more but hanging in there.Roy Foote sends his regards from Seattle,and Peter Sybrandy the same fromToppenish U.S.A.I’ve included copies of pages from a bookI picked up a couple of years ago and as youcan see they refer to the Boer War. Thebook was published in 1903 and was writtenby Sir Arthur Conan Doyle who servedas a civilian field doctor from 1899-1902.The map has changed as far as some Placenames go but my last UN tour was north ofthe Orange River.In closing, this 8 Mar 2002, I’m wonder ifthere is some way to have Albertans closetheir gates. We, your neighbours, don’tneed 8 inches of snow.Bill AndersonSooke, BCStrathcona’s Newsletter Page 9

PERAMBULATIONS OF THE PERIPATETIC PADRESince my last epistle considerableamounts of water have flowed down theMelfa! Early in October it was my greatprivilege to spend a delightful evening withJim and Marg Spencer in Mervin,Saskatchewan. Little did we know thatwithin a few weeks Jim would be dead.What a great time we had re-fighting theMelfa, Torrice Crossroads and the GothicLine. My travelling companion and I weretreated royally by Jim and Marg, beddeddown for the night after a lovely supper andsent off in the morning after a hearty breakfast.Jim was my driver in the latter part ofthe Italian Campaign.Unfortunately I was unable to attend hisfuneral, as on that day I was on my way toWinnipeg to take the Memorial Service forBob Ellerbeck. Bob as you probablyknow, was the driving force behind the firstbig Strathcona Post War Reunion, held atthe Fort Garry Hotel in Winnipeg in 1970.He served several terms as president of theWinnipeg branch of the Association. Hisdaughter Carol and nephew Gary Ellerbeckattended the service at St. Bede’s AnglicanChurch, which contains Strathcona Memorials.2nd War Straths in attendance includedErnie Copper, Roger Ptosnick, JimFargy, John Hall, Tom Stanley, JohnGoodmanson and yours truly as the officiatingpadre. Strathcona widows includedElaine McGregor, Marie Reahil.Through the kindness of AssociationPresident Don Crossman my air fare toWinnipeg was paid. The regiment laid on adriver in the person of Captain CameronWhite, a serving Strathcona stationed inWinnipeg who drove me all over town visitingWW II Straths including, famed “B”Squadron wireless op, John Hall andHarry Stein who was unable to attend theChurch service because of a medical1952 continued to be packed with eventsand learning traditions, some military andsome social procedures. The most historicaloccurrence, of course, was the death ofKING GEORGE VI, on February 6th. Theensuing mourning and elevation ofPrincess Elizabeth to the throne asQueen called for military parades, blackarmbands and fewer social activities. LordStrathcona visited the Regiment after hisvisit to the USA. One of the pictures belowwas taken in the H-Hut cum Officers’ Mess.As I recall, the two gas heaters were goingfull blast and Lord Strathcona, the grandsonof the first Lord, was very appreciative.The second picture was taken at the regimentalparade, with Lord Strathcona in thehangar with LCol Deane-Freeman andCapt Hugh Mackie.–continued on page 11appointment. A stop at the Deer LodgeHospital included a visit with Chum DCMMacey whose well deserved decorationwas won at the Melfa in company withRecce Leader Lieutenant Ed Perkins DSOthe only subaltern in the regiment to winthis high decoration. Many of us thought heshould have received the VC. This was mylast visit with Chum, whose marriage I hadofficiated at when I was rector of St. Bede’sin the early 1970’s.As I write this letter (February 27th) aphone call from Roger Ptosnick in Winnipeginforms me that Chum was buriedto-day. Thus our last DCM has gone to hisreward.In early December we received the sadnews that my driver in Holland, Lloyd(Jock) Spilde had died in Provost, Alberta.Lloyd had a distinguished career inProvost (250 miles north west of Calgary)where he served on town council and lateras Mayor. He was the principal force in settingup the new hospital in Provost, one ofthe finest in all Alberta and where he spenthis last days. His faithful and dear wifeDella asked me to take his funeral service,which I was honoured to do. On the morningof the funeral I was privileged to bless amagnificent hospital chair, which Della hadbought for Lloyd and which now, serves asa memorial to him in the Provost Hospital.On a trip east earlier this month I had agreat visit with Brigadier George Wattsfordwho was badly wounded at the Melfawhile serving as a major. We recalled manyof the happy days under that great COColonel Paddy Griffin. One of theBrigadier’s favorite heroes is one FrankClifford who fresh out from England in thelate 1920’s joined the Straths as a trooper inCalgary. In a distinguished military careerFrank rose through the ranks ending up asMILLENNIAL MEMORIESa captain. In the 1980’s because of his loyalsupport of Little Trinity Church andWycliffe College, this latter college awardedFrank an Honourary LL.D. So we nowaddress him as Dr. Clifford, a mostdeserved honour. I was privileged to be atthe Convocation when Frank received hisdegree. When I tried to make an appointmentto see Frank, he had to beg off,because he was on his way to his old lawoffice to do some work! And Frank is only89. Can you imagine what he will be up towhen he is 100.!!Around the corner from Frank I didmanage to catch Len “Alley” Katz andLee at home. Len is not too well and had tocancel his usual winter trip to Florida. Wehope that he will be in better shape for nextyear’s trip.Back in Calgary my wife Marion and Ihad lunch with Alice Budner today. Aliceis the widow of that dare devil DR Nicky,who could do everything with a Nortonexcept make it talk!! Billie May and DonLake take in Strath luncheons with yourstruly at #285 Legion. Roy Jardine is homefrom hospital but is still confined to a wheelchair. He hopes to be back on his feet sometimenext year. In the meantime his devotedwife Inez is spoiling him rotten! FredDaunais while still on Dialysis is homefrom hospital. Frank Thiessen is homefrom hospital and looking a lot better afterhaving surgery. And last but not least, faithful“B” Squadron Orderly room clerk, AlexOzirny is in the Colonel Belcher Hospitalwhere his dear wife Jean visits him almostdaily.So long till next time. ARRIVIDERCI andPOOSH ON STRATHCONAS from the AssociationPadre and Lance Corporal (retired).(Father) R.S.H. GreeneCalgary, ABLord Strathcona addresses the Regiment.L to R. Lord Strathcona, Capt Mackie, LColDeane-Freeman.Page 10Strathcona’s Newsletter

Millennial Memories continuedThe only sticky moment of the Lord’sspeech came while complimenting theCommanding Officer and the Regiment, forits capabilities and professional reputation.He finished his comments by saying “I amalso very pleased to be with the regimenttonight with an officer with my familyname.” At which point most people lookedat each other trying to figure out whom hewas referring to. I had never experiencedsuch a complete hush, nor seen such anexchange of looks before. Lord Strathcona,a consummate speaker, saved the day bysaying he understood there was a Lt Smithat the dinner. Jack Smith later spent sometime with the Lord in the anteroom.There were other officers at the back anddespite the lack of blues and mess kit, itwas an excellent evening. Some of us wouldbe seeing Lord Strathcona in Germany, in1954 when he inspected “D” Sqn in FortAnne, Werl.Some time after Lord Strathcona’s visit,the subalterns were given the good newsthat the regiment was once again beinginvited to provide escorts to the 1952Debutantes at the annual CALGARYHIGHLANDERS BALL in the PalliserHotel in Calgary. With no apparent volunteersin the offing, and the subs keeping alow profile, the selection was beingapproached with caution. The socialaspects of the escorts’ ability to dance somefive types of music including the fox trot;the waltz, a South America medley, Highlanddancing with the Highland Fling andreels were all pretty daunting. More dauntingwas the expectation of the number ofpractices at night in the Palliser under thescrutiny of the Dance Mistress, an expertRSM in waiting, charged with trainingeleven debutantes, eleven subalterns andother family spectators. You can imaginethe ribbing the regiment’s five subalternstook over the weeks leading up to the bignight, 6 June 1952. Luckily I hadn’t beenscooped up for reasons unknown to meback at the beginning for which I was grateful.Anyway, I was safe and sound in Wainwrightwith my Motor Transport...Or so Ithought!I was summoned to the CO’s tent on 5June around mid- morning with the stellarinformation that one of the regiment’sdancers was hors de combat and I was“IT”. My cup had overflowed and I was provideda vehicle with wooden benches in theback, plus sandwiches for lunch en route.Further, we would travel wearing the currentkhaki raincoat against the dust andtaking the necessaries accruements for theball. We did all that, the dust was bloodyawful, and looking back on it we could havebeen taken for Butch Cassidy and theSundance Kid. The benches kept sliding;the CO drove like a bat out of hell.We made it to a very quiet Currie Barracksin record time. Then we had to presentour selves to the Calgary Highlandersand the Dancing Mistress, whowas less than impressed with me and somewhatcautious with the Commanding Officer.The final rehearsal was about to startand it didn’t look too encouraging for me.After much palaver, I believe the CO convincedher that I was fairly harmless andshould partake in the last drills and pick upthe moves. As it turned out, I was pairedwith a very attractive young lady, AnnMarshall who was patiently teaching meall the steps and lead me through thedances. On the night of the Ball it went wellfor there was no casualties. The DancingMistress was happy, I hadn’t let the regimentdown and I was happy to return toWainwright.Ken BarnabyOttawa, ONOfficers’ Mess Dinner on the occasion of Lord Strathcona’s visit – 1952.Dear John(This is the twelfth in a series of fictionalfather-to-son letters, which werepenned by the late BGen A.G. CHUBBand published in the Canadian ArmyJournal in the 50’s. Ed)Dear John:Your mother and I enjoyed our weekendwith you and your brother subalternsseemed to take good care to see that Maryhad a good time at the dance. They seemedto be a very decent lot and it was fun for meto have a run at a regimental party againafter all these years. Your mother is stillcomplaining about the fat little Captainwho walked all over her feet while dancingbut I know she was awfully pleased abouteverything too. Mary kept babbling abouthow handsome all the officers looked inmess kit but I think she is a little biasedtowards things military. At that, I mustadmit it was a splendid show.I think one of the things that impressedme most was the good spirit between theofficers and the other ranks both on and offparade. The regimental sports day was verywell organized and the number of officerscompeting in all events is certainly a goodthing. I know when I had a regiment Ialways felt very strongly that one of thebest methods for a young officer to get toknow his troops was to compete with andagainst them. It doesn’t really matter if youare a good athlete just so you get out andtry. One other thing I should mention in thisregard is to emphasize how important it isfor the officers to attend any and all sportingevents in which regimental teams arecompeting. It builds up the regimental spiritwhen the spectator strength is at nearcapacity and the officers must give lead. Bythe same token, it is pretty shattering tothe opposition when the regiment turns outfor every game win, lose or draw. Incidentallyyou will probably find that your bestyoung NCO’s are the athletic types whotake part in all of the sports.I don’t wonder that the CO is worriedabout the number of men who are takingtheir discharge. There are plenty of reasonsthat can be given for the high turnover inthe army as a whole, high rates of pay availablein civvy street, booming industry, etc.,etc. However, are you sure that you aredoing everything at your level to keep yourown troops relatively contented? A lot ofthe big things are beyond your control butthere are a lot of seemingly small pointsthat can cause dissatisfaction that can beremedied at the troop leader level. Be honestwith yourself, are you doing everythingpossible to help the man who comes to youwith a problem. I know it takes time tostraighten out lawyers, doctors, wives, children,promotion, trade qualifications, payetc. but that is part of your job. Listens tothe problem sympathetically and then do–continued on page 13Strathcona’s Newsletter Page 11

Greetings from the Strathcona’s of theEast. As I was recently reminded by LCol“Spike” Hazleton, next to the Regiment,CFB Gagetown, and more specifically theArmour School, has the highest concentrationof Strathcona’s anywhere in thecountry. The school is presently well establishedwith Strathcona Officers and SnrNCOs. Its headquarters has LCol “Spike”Hazleton at the helm with CWO DougHarvey employed as the RSM role andMajor BJ Walsh is the Chief Instructor.Other Officers and NCOs employed atthe school include: Major Chris Rankin,OC TSS, Captains, John Cochrane, ScottGooch, Dan Hardy, Rob Hume, ErrolMacEachern, Chris Nolan and JasonSteeves on the officer side with CWORuss Ells, MWO Kevin Lovett and MWODave Blanchard rounding out the seniorstaff employed within the school. Having atotal number of 110 all ranks posted to theThe Cobra II story continuedThis story was well known around theRegiment. Bill West knows the story andso does Percy Buzza. In fact, Percy sayshe has recounted the incident to groupsfrom time to time to show that war is notalways hell. At the time it may have beenregarded as an interesting drinking story.Er! Well, a Piss-upBut now, I think we should be proud ofthe men who were involved. It’s part of thePerseverance idea that is instilled in ourmembers. Think of it. These men broughtin several prisoners. There were many decorationsthat were awarded to soldiers whosuccessfully captured a prisoner. Our ladsdid it without force. I think they were heroic.Let’s find out who the unknown ThirdMan was. Some may quibble the fact thatthey were drunk on duty. Nonsense! Drinkingwas an essential element for the successof their mission, which was to find away to get back to the Regiment. In addition,it must be remembered that two hadbeen wounded and were perhaps sufferingsome considerable pain and distress. Theyquite possibly needed the Vino as a paincontrol. Think about it!Jock BurtonVictoria, BCSTRATHCONA’S OF THE EASTschool and approximately 20 others beingemployed throughout the base ensure theRegiment is well represented on this coast.The School is heavily involved in theWave of Work (WOW), the re-writing ofall armour courses conducted across thecountry. There are a number of personnelparticipating in this project. It runs fromthe development of Qualification Standard(QS) through to the completion ofthe courseware. Involved in the officerDevelopmental Period 1 (DP) boardswere Major Jamie Hunter, Sgt Tom Hollandand Captain Colin Michaud beforethe process drove him to retire in December2001. CWO Russ Ells assisted in thespearheading of the DP 1 Crewman andDP 4 SSM courses. As if redesigning thesecourses were not enough to keep him busy,CWO Russ Ells has taken on a renovationproject, that of the School Strathcona classroom.True to his mentor, Bob Villa, he hasreturned the glory to this once proud classroom.Renovations are all but completewith the final addition of the Wanklynprints soon to be added.In fine Strathcona tradition, we have alarge number of social events in the worksover the next few months. Functionsinclude: the Atlantic Area Black HatMess Dinner on 23 March 02, in whichthere will be a fine re-enactment of the Battleof Moreuil Wood; our annual MoreuilWood Smoker, 28 March 02, and finallythe officers Moreuil Wood Dinner on 6April 02.Remember, if you are going to be at ornear the School, drop by and pay a visit toyour fellow Strathcona’s. Or just see our 30Leopard C2’s. We are all looking forwardto receiving the Spring edition of theNewsletter.Captain John CochraneCFB Gagetown, NBWhat’s in a Name – Which is not on a NameTag?Strathconas like to be friendly with somereservations to those who take themselvestoo seriously. Let me give you a few examplesof that camaraderie I have heard overmy years in the RCAC. Many of these affectionatenicknames were used in the Strathconasor other RCAC Units.Mud Guts Stevens – Drank copiousamounts of chocolate milk.Hose Nose Murphy – Long snout.The Anteater – Longer than Hose NoseMurphy’s long snout.Wing Nut – Big Ears.Cowboy Schultz – Couldn’t ride a horsebut wore a Stetson hat off base.Babbler Riching – Could not stop talking,but said nothing worth remembering.Shadow Redding – Too thin to cast ashadow.Pumpkin Head Carlson – Very largehead.Gobbels – Became Goatballs.Meathead Jones – In the Military Police(A.K.A.) “Meatheads”, as opposed to DoubleClutching Jones who drove a truck inthe Service Corps. It’s important to knowwhich Jones is the real Meathead as inpoint of fact both were.Patterson – This could take a wholepage, but here are a few – Black Pat – Dirtysocks Patterson – S.L. and A.K. (initials)Patterson – Paddy Patterson and on andon.Slewfoot Brant – Big feet.Mad Jack – Fat Jack – Black Jack –Smiling Jack and Flapjack.Rip Cord Bill Barnaby – Officer killedin a free fall parachute drop because he forgotsomething basic. Duh? THUMP!A chap with the name Hogalinshirtze –Became Hockey ShortsA Francophone chap with the nameRaincourt – Became RainCoat.Bulgy McArthur – Officer who thoughthe was thin and he wasn’t – his tight uniformgave him away.Chicken Major Jones as opposed toCol. Saunders – A Major who had a nightjob delivering “Chicken On the Way” (Iswear it’s true!).Fireplug Murphy – Built like one.Fighting Frank Worthington – Gener-al F.F. Worthington father of RCAC andPeter Worthington, columnist.Farting Frank Barber – Same initialsdifferent qualification and rank!Lying Ted – Guess why.Sneaky George Curundi – Was just asmart person – like a Car Salesman – onlycouldn’t be trusted at cards either.Horseshit Wallin – He was full of it anda real horse’s ass – hung out with FlimsyFlinch.Numb Nuts Allen – Really stunned.Pussar Parker – Origin UK – thoughtCanada was still a colony and the LimeJuicers are superior – talked about “havingchildren” and not KIDS.My all time Fav’ – Chief Walking Eagle– A Commanding Officer I once had – hewas so full of crap he could never get off theground. Became a General in the end, didn’tfly any better in Ottawa. I wonder if he’smore aerodynamic in heaven now?This just proves that Strathconas are afriendly bunch and this is just the tip of theiceberg.As Major “Old Cock” Stanford said,“Who’s for a shot of SRD?” (Service RumDemerara) then we’ll lift the horses tail andlook the situation right in the eye.So Perseverance and Perspiration ittakes both to get promoted.“Take care now.” You may not know whatto take care of, but take care of it NOW anyway!Galloping Geezer (Is Not My RealName, I hope you realize – Duh – Thump).Disclaimer: Most of these fine folks aredead. To avoid embarrassment or hurt toany living or relatives of the nicknamesgiven, actual names are not used.Jack DowneyCalgary, ABPage 12Strathcona’s Newsletter

LdSH(RC) Association (Ontario Branch) ReportThe Branch focus has been communicationswith all Strathconas throughoutOntario. We now have a well functioningweb site (as does the Regiment) and morethan half of the Ontario family receives routinee-mail updates on events, activities andthe moves or passing of members.We are pleased that LCol Jamie Cadehas been selected to be the next CommandingOfficer of the Regiment. Forthe past two years LCol Cade found time toserve us all as an active member of theOntario Branch Executive.For those who don’t have access to e-I’ve come to say good-byeIn memory of Gordan Waldner, killed atGrid co-ordinate 165192, Korea, 02 Oct1952. Albert McBride visited the grave atthe United Nations Memorial Cemetery inPusan, Korea on 20 April 1958.Dear John continuedsomething about it and then most importanttell the man of any progress in the settlingof the problem.A thing you should continually keep infront of you is the matter of the equal divisionof the dirty jobs in your troop. Unlessit is carefully watched you may find somepoor wretch who is always stuck for theextra duty perhaps because he is not quiteas sharp as the rest of the troop. If this ishappening make sure that you get itchanged else you will surely have a disgruntledman in your troop.Keep continually under review the matterof promotion from within your troop.When a man does well tell him so and pushhim up the ladder when the opportunitypermits. Along the same vein keep a sharpeye on the trades qualification of the menof your troop. Find out what the man wantsand see that he gets the necessary course.Now if you are certain of yourself take asharp look at your NCO’s. Are they; availableto the troops and are they fair and justin their dealings. If not, then you shouldtake action and at once. By the same tokenbe sure that you keep the matter of NCOqualifications and training in a proper perspective.It is a big job you have my boy and if youand your NCO’s are doing it faithfully andwell the number of men taking their dischargewill be held to a minimum. A big joband a fascinating one that has no limit noend and allow no letdown.Lord, lord I envy you.As ever,Dadmail we have decided to send a newsletterthree months out of phase from the SocietyNewsletter. This will give each membermore news over a broader period.Our new web site has been developed byour webmaster, Capt Eric Chamberland,Montreal We are very grateful that he hasdevoted so much of his time, talent andeffort to this project. The editor is our President,Greg Hug, in Ottawa.PerseveranceBill JacobsOttawa, ONI’VE COME TO SAY GOOD-BYEI’m here by your grave, at last my friend.I hear the angels cry.I see your smile. I hear your voice.I come to say good-bye.Memories come of that long time ago.I watch you as you die.I hear you cry. I feel your painI come to say good-bye.You’re not alone in this foreign field.Your friends are here, close by.The birds still sing, the flowers still bloom.I come to say good-bye.I slowly kneel by your grave in prayer.You speak and I reply.I touch your stone and shed my tears.It’s time to say good-bye.So rest in peace, my boy-hood friend,As angels sing on high.My prayers and thoughts are here with you.I’ve said my last good-bye.I thought of these words, as I watchedmy husband, Albert, kneel at the gravesideof his friend.Isabelle McBrideSt Albert, ABThe RSM’s cornerIt would seem that a common theme ofmine is tell you how busy we have been!That’s because it’s true!! In fact as LColEllis mentioned in an “O” Group, just theother day, he had never seen the Regimentthis busy before (not that he has a lot oftime here!).Out of all the events that have gone downrange this past year, the most memorablewere, the Strong Contender, Cambrianpatrol team winning a Silver Medal, theRegimental ski trip, adventure training,Gun camp in Suffield (our first time in thefield for quite some time!) I even managedto squeeze in Exercise “Ironsides bonspeil”(My first in 29 years!)Much has changed in the past couple ofyears in both the Cdn Forces and the Army.The day-to-day pace has picked up considerably,Squadron level rotations continue togrow, the calendar is full and multi taskinghas become the order of the day. Long pastare the days of focusing on one task at onetime. The demands on personnel, vehiclesand resources, has become a huge jugglingact that all are involved in.While all this is going on, the Regimentalsystem continues to be under attack fromall flanks. From the medical system to, thelegal system, the training system, digitization,and continual Army restructure. I’mconvinced that there is a cell in Ottawathat has a mandate to look for changes toanything that has lasted more than a year!In the midst of this constant bombardmentfrom outside and the hectic scheduleinside, there is one group that does notalways get the recognition they deserve.These are the soldiers. I’m talking aboutcrewman, supply techs, maintainers,technicians, medics, cooks, signalers,military police, (I know I’ve missed someone!).They put up with all the changes atthe lowest level they are the ones who haveto make it happen and to date they continueto do an outstanding job. Well done to allof you! Keep up the great work!PerseveranceCWO (RSM) D.M. Biener, CDStrathcona’s Newsletter Page 13

Message from the Colonel of the Regiment continuedals, are assisting directly in achieving coalitionaims. All Strathconas will certainly joinme in wishing Recce Squadron all of thebest for a quick and complete success.As can be seen from the comments of theCommanding Officer, the Regiment itselfcontinues to be busy. Taken as a whole thelast year may have been a more traditionalone but it was certainly a busy one. It alsowas a very successful year. Not only was“the bread and butter” training done well,but also the Regiment was extremely successfulin external competitions of both themilitary and sports varieties. I congratulateall involved for the large number of its particularsuccesses in the past year. Theyrepresent high levels of performancethroughout the Regiment.Looking to the immediate future for theRegiment, life will continue to be very busy.The end of the Afghanistan deployment isstill several months away. Shortly afterMoreuil Wood celebrations the Regimentwill participate in a major Brigade exerciseincluding live firing to ensure that collectiveall arms skills are maintained. Theforthcoming G-8 conference is certain tobe a heavy commitment and later in theyear another squadron deployment toBosnia is on the horizon. It is fortunate thatPage 14the Regiment contains the depth in skilland experience that it does becausedemands as extensive and diverse as theseare demanding indeed for one Regiment ina short period.Society matters also continue to beactive. The Alberta Association Branchcontinues to be heavily involved and muchof the foundation is already laid for the nextReunion in May 2005, which will coincidewith Albert’s Centennial. The OttawaAssociation Branch is very active, as arenumerous smaller groups of Strathconas.The Newsletter and ‘Mucker’s’ officecontinue to provide outstanding servicewhile, through the benefits of new technology,Internet linkages are opening upmuch more communication within andabout the family. I particularly thank thoseinvolved with our Internet advances for thespeed and effectiveness we have achievedin moving forward in this area. The StrathconaMounted Troop, our Museum, thePipes and Drums, and the Historic VehicleTroop all appear to be on solid footing.The result is that the name Strathconascontinues to be prominent and associatedwith high standards.Lastly, it appears that before the nextedition of the Newsletter, my appointmentas the Colonel of the Regiment will haveStrathcona Mounted Troop Report continuedtheir annual stakes race on the 24th ofNovember at Northlands Park. NormallyMounted Troop ends its season in mid-October however the ASHA was very keento honour the Regiment and thus namedtwo of its important races after the Regiment.We were quick to realise why the MusicalRide season ends in October … as theminus 15°C temperatures had manyMounted Troopers asking if they couldwear their toques instead of their helmets!December in the Mounted Troop meanstime for exchange of personnel. This is inpreparation for the Basic Equine Indoctrinationcourse that commences in earlyJanuary. This year we said goodbye to threevery skilled horsemen: MCpl PatrickLalonde, Cpl Ron Sampert and CplMatthew Hull. All will be missed for theirwork ethic and riding abilities. However, wewere lucky to receive two very eagerreplacements: Tpr Alex Diblassio andTpr Curtis McCarron.The Christmas leave period is a timewhen Mounted Troop clearly establishesitself as the premier Troop in the Regiment.Unlike the Squadron vehicles Leopardsand Coyotes, horses can not be “parked”for Christmas leave. As such, each rider isexpected to come in a minimum of 5 daysduring his or her Christmas leave in orderto clean stalls and feed the horses. A specialthanks to MCpl John Jans and Sgt Artended. It has been a long appointment, certainlylonger than anticipated at the beginning.The period has covered a number ofvery significant events in our history fromoperational deployments, to move of theRegiment, to Celebration 2000 and all thatits activities meant. The period has alsoseen substantial growth in the capabilitiesof the Regiment itself and of the Society.Each year and its involvements wereinteresting and often challenging to mepersonally and will provide me with verypositive memories. However, far and awaythe most memorable aspect of the appointmentwill be the many Strathconas I met, asindividuals and in groups, those in the Regimentand outside of the Regiment, and themany, many more people who count themselvesas friends and supporters of theStrathcona’s. Flowing from the long-standingspirit found from within the Regimentitself, we, as Strathcona’s, have developed avery unique approach and spirit. Meetingso many that possess and exhibit that spirithave been the highlight of the appointmentwithout a doubt.It has been my honour and pleasure tosee and participate in Strathcona spiritfrom a very privileged position. I thankthose who gave me that opportunity. Most–continued on page 15Wiggins for spearheading the charge onChristmas Day and New Years Dayrespectively. Without dedicated individualslike these, Mounted Troop would not bewhat it is today.In an attempt to return to our roots, theMounted Troop has started re-trainingitself in the game of polo. The Troop hasenlisted the help of Mr. Gregg Garvin ofthe Polo Training Foundation of Canadato teach us the intricacies of the outdoorfield and arena versions of the game. Thishas benefited the Troop greatly as the crosstraining of riders has meant a generalincrease in the interest level of thingsequine by the soldiers as well as increasingour overall collective riding ability.Bookings for the 2002 Musical Rideseason have already been brisk. The Troophas an excellent reputation for providingunparalleled entertainment at a reasonableprice. Bookings this year range from ournormal Spruce Meadows appearances astheir official Colour Guard to performingfor the first time to live music at the VictoriaMilitary Music Festival, 14-16 June.This year we’ve even received inquiries forperforming from as far south as Caldwell,Idaho (30 miles south of Boise). SMT isalso looking forward to performing at suchvenues as: Heritage Park, TheReynolds-Alberta Museum, Fort Calgary,Fort Edmonton, the Town of Rimbey,the Town of Taber and Comox NauticalDays. For specific dates and timingsof performances check our website atwww.strathconas.caThe highlight of the 2002 Ride Season isthe probability of once again performingthe Queen’s Life Guard duties, in London,during the Queen’s Golden Jubileein October of this year. No confirmationfor this event has been made as of yet.In an attempt to make Mounted Troopmore popular with our neighbours to thesouth, money has been allotted this year forthe Strathcona Mounted Troop to conducta small unit exchange. As such, contact hasbeen established with another equine militaryunit, the 1st Cavalry Horse Detachmentfrom Fort Hood, Texas.This outfit has 40 horses and six mulesand puts on a mounted weapons displayusing vintage Indian Wars era kit. Theyseem to have a lot in common with theMounted Troop and are very eager for us tovisit. Their Commanding Officer, Capt JeffSchmidt will be visiting with eight of hisbest riders from 6-13 May of this year on acultural exchange. No date has been confirmedfor Mounted Troop’s reciprocal visit.The 2002 Musical Ride season is shapingup to be one of our finest seasons ever.With 20 motivated Riders and 17 premiummounts the Strathcona Mounted Troop isset to achieve great things this year.Lt. Ross ProkopyTroop LeaderStrathcona’s Newsletter

I joined the Regiment in May 1943 whenthey drafted 162 personnel from trainingcamps, to bring the regiment up to fullstrength.In late June we moved North of Londonto the downs, where we trained with allunits in 5th Div. We all used the RAM tankthat summer.In Nov 1943 we set sail from England andtwo weeks later we landed in Italy.The Recce TroopNow we became part of and under thecommand of the British 8th Army. Thus wehad to reorganize our complete tank set upand number of tanks per squadron. Thethree squadrons were “A”. “B” & “C” eachwith 16 Sherman tanks. This also was whenRecce Troop was formed. We were allotted11 Honey tanks, which weighted about 14-ton and had a crew of 4.This photo of Recce Troop taken inIzegem, Belgium March 1945.James AdairBarrhead, AB(This photo submitted by James priorto his passing in June 2001. I felt that itshould be published for the benefit ofthose of his comrades who are still withus. Hoping that it will rekindle someproud memories. Ed)1st Row: Sgt DA Armstrong, L/Cpl MC Abraham, Sgt DS Henderson, Lt PW Brunet, Capt WM Reade, Sgt JA Williams,Cpl FH Ward, Cpl RR Hudson, Cpl J Kyniski, Cpl ES Woodcock, Cpl WE Woodley.2nd Row: Sgt FG McLean, Tpr FW Woodhouse, Tpr BC Snider, Tpr RA Thomas, Tpr LL Ledoux, Tpr JD Adair, Tpr R Peart,Tpr JE Kellestine, Sgt JW Ellerbeck.3rd Row: Tpr WH Olimb, Tpr JK Funk, Tpr J Pringle, Tpr J Brown, Tpr WC Smail, L/Cpl HJ Keeling, Tpr DO Morier, TprNE Hives, Tpr HE Wright, Tpr JE Glover.4th Row: Tpr HJ Wait, Tpr LF Steimer, Tpr JW Taylor, Tpr F Mitchell, Tpr RH Burnett, Cpl CW Carlbom, Tpr EL Harris,Tpr P Ratushniuk, Tpr RG McIntosh, Tpr L Tucker, Tpr SC Costello.Recce personnel not in the photo that was on leave, transferred, killed or wounded in action. Also those who came to the troopafter the picture was taken:Tpr RG Cooksey, Tpr JF Duffus, Lt C Eyres, Lt EG Gaunt, Tpr EJ Farmer, Tpr GV Hains, L/Cpl SW Lamb, Tpr EO Laws,Sgt JW Lofvendahl, Sgt CN Macey, Tpr FN Manvany, Capt EJ Perkins, Tpr CR Peterson, Capt SW Phillips, Sgt WF Plomp,Tpr EH Potten, Tpr J Troudt, Tpr RT Will, Tpr WE Wreggit.The Colonel-in-Chief’s Commendation continuedtwenty years been in charge of the Officeof the Society. As such, on virtually a fulltime basis, provided the central point ofcontact about family matters for all Strathconasoutside the Regiment. Has been thesingle person that most Strathconas wouldconsider as the first from whom to seekadvice or information about family mattersor about the whereabouts and well being ofothers. Has provided the service both ver-bally and in writing with great humour andenthusiasm which frequently covers theamount of sheer work he has providedthrough his personal perseverance contributingin a very significant way in ensuringStrathconas, wherever they reside, considerthemselves to be part of the family.(The above column was extracted fromthe Strathcona Society Web Page atwww.strathconas.ca Ed)Message from the Colonel of theRegiment continuedof all I thank the many Strathconas, toonumerous to name, who helped me personallythroughout my appointment. I knowthat my successor will be able to count onthe same support.As always I say to each and everyStrathcona, stay in touch and stayinvolved.Perseverance.LGen (Retd) J.A. FoxStrathcona’s Newsletter Page 15

NOTES FROMTHE EDITORIn addition to those acknowledged withtheir “Letters”, we wish to thank the followingfor their generous donations:Bill Armstrong, John Ashley, KenBarnaby, ‘Benny’ Benoit, Stan Broski,‘Brick’ Brown, Cliff Brown, Doug Cherry,Vic Childs, ‘Nobby’ Clark, Carl Cole,Roy Currie, Bert Dixon, ‘Doc’ Dowling,George Fox, ‘Art’ Fancis, Grace Gordon,Doug Handling, Foster Hutchison,‘Mousy’ Kaatz, Howard Katzeley, ArtKunstman, Lou Lesperance, DonaldLidster, Bill Logan, Ernie Lyng, AlbertMcBride, Albert McGuire, LeroyMcKenzie, John McPherson, ‘Dusty’G.L. Miller, Pat Mitchell, RussellMitchell, Bill Murray, Merl Olson,‘Hank’ Reid, Sam Schnarr, Jack Somerset,Wayne Spencer, John Thompson,George Thwaites, ‘Inno’ Vatter,‘Waddy’ Wadsworth, ‘Wes’ Westergard,Jack Williams. (Please let me know if Imissed anyone)Anyone, who has donated money to theRegimental Society and has not receiveda letter of acknowledgment if applicable,is requested to let me know.At the time of going to press, we aremissing some of our regular submissionsbut hopefully they will arrive in time forinclusion in this edition.The input from readers for this editionwas most encouraging for it makes my job alot easier when that input is available.When I have to do fill-ins the material is notStrathcona flavoured and therefore notreceived with the same enthusiasm.For the Fall 2002 edition of theNewsletter, please forward your reports,letters, anecdotes, articles, photos, etc bythe 15 Sep 2002.‘Mucker’ LanganLAST TRUMPET CALLKENDALL G.G. (George) WW2, age 84, 08 Dec 01, Ottawa, ONMCCARTHY J.C. (John) WW2, Korea, Regular, age 74, 10 Jan 02, St John, NBCLARK R.B.E. (Nobby) Regular, age 72, 04 Feb 02, Calgary, ABMACEY C.N. (Chum) WW2, age 85, Feb 02, Winnipeg, MBMADILL G.O. (Gord) Regular, age 74, 12 Oct 01, Dauphin, MBNICOL J.I. (Jack) WW2, age 86, Jan 02, Victoria, BCPICKERELL L.D. (Lenny) WW2, age 82, 04 Dec 01, Langley, BCSAMBELL D. (Duane) Regular, age 70, 11 Jul 01, Calgary, ABSAMPLE K.R. (Ken) WW2, age 80, 17 Sep 2001, Minnedosa, MBSCRAMSTAD P.T. (Scrammy) WW2, age 80, 23 Feb 02, Kelowna, BCSPENCER J.A. (Jim) WW2, age 86, 26 Oct 01, Mervin, SKSPILDE L. (Lloyd) WW2, age 78, 13 Dec 01, Provost, ABTRESHAM D.A. (Don) Regular, age 67, 29 Dec 01, Ottawa, ONWALTON A.E. (Wally) Regular, age 69, 24 Jan 02, Calgary, ABIn Loving Memory of WivesCHILDS VI (Vic) 01 Dec 98, West Bank, BCGOEBEL AGNES (Len) 21 May 01, Calgary, ABLAMBKIN LILLIAN (Tom deceased) 02 June 01, Belmont, MBMENU MARGARET (Paul deceased) 23 Dec 01, Calgary, ABMOGG MARY (Andy) 17 May 01, West Bank, BCWATTSFORD HELEN, (George) 13 April 01, Kingston, ON“May They Rest in Peace”______________________________________________________________(My apologies for lack of details in some cases. Ed)New E-mail AddressesAssociation (Alberta Branch)abbranch@strathconas.caAssociation (Ontario Branch)strathconasontario@yahoo.caLost TrailsThe following had their Fall 2000 Newsletter returned by Canada Post with thenotation “MOVED”. If any reader knows the current address or whereabouts ofthese individuals would you, or have them, notify this office:Chris Eyres, Winnipeg, MB. Padre Gingras, Gatineau, QC. Bert Mills, Scarborough,ON. Mary Perkins, Clarkesburg, ON. Doctor Nicholas Rety, Vernon,BC. Colin Zwicker, Parksville, BC. Don Verge, Halifax, NS. Ken Dent, MedicineHat, AB. J. Duggan, Edmonton, AB. Tom Williamson, High River, AB. “Punchy”Chant, Picton, BC. Laird Gordon, Gloucester, ON. Ed Hanson, Lethbridge, AB.Len Ledoux, Saanichton, BC. Bill McCulloch, N. Vancouver, BC. LloydMcLean, Parksville, BC. Bert Mill, Scarborough, ON. Ron Paxton, Brandon, MB.Grant Pearson, St Marys, ON. Chris Rand, Golden, BC. Wayne Reinson, Cremona,AB. George Towell, Andrew, AB. “Poco” Wait, Creston, BC. DoreenWindsor, Victoria, BC. In Calgary AB were J. Curlook, Mrs. Jane Cook,Charles Harnett, Gord MacKay, Alex McIntosh, Mrs. Eleaner Robison,Duane Sambell.Page 16Strathcona’s Newsletter