Canada Command - Op Podium

Stories from the Olympics

Profile: Master Corporal Marvin Castillo

Master Corporal Marvin Costillo, an aerospace telecommunications and information systems technician from 8 Wing Trenton, adjusts settings on the MPN-25 Precision Approach Radar at Squamish, B.C., in February 2010 as part of his duties in support of Operation PODIUM. Operation PODIUM is the Canadian Forces (CF) contribution to the overall security of the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games in support of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP)-led Integrated Security Unit. The Air Force’s contribution is two-fold: The Air Component Command of Joint Task Force Games, which provides airlift, medical evacuation and area surveillance for the RCMP; and the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD), which will ensure airspace security.

Photo credit: Master Corporal Tom Trainor, 8 Wing Trenton Imagery

By: Lieutenant Shalako Smith

An attack on the students and campus of his Guatemala City University by armed members of the Guatemalan military in 1988 prompted Marvin Castillo to take his young wife and leave behind his studies, a professional soccer career and his business to flee to Canada and eventually to begin a career in the Canadian Forces (CF).

Master Corporal Marvin Castillo is an aerospace telecommunications and information systems technician with 8 Air Communications and Control Squadron (8 ACCS) at 8 Wing Trenton, Ontario, a career choice with which he is very pleased. “Ever since I made the choice of joining the CF I have felt so proud of what I am doing. I love it,” said Master Corporal Castillo with a broad and infectious smile.

As one of the “Gypsies” of 8 ACCS serving Operation PODIUM (the CF support to the RCMP for security during the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games), Master Corporal Castillo is responsible for maintaining and operating the MPN-25 precision approach radar and equipment monitoring the air traffic in the Sea-to-Sky corridor.

His time with the CF has taken him from the blistering heat of Afghanistan to the heart-stopping chill of the Arctic Ocean. “When in my wildest dreams would I ever think that I would be able to do the things that the CF has enabled me to do?” he asks.

Things weren’t always this happy for Master Corporal Castillo. At about 17 years of age, the promising young soccer player was drafted onto a feeder team of the first division Guatemala City soccer team. He played soccer professionally for several years while working as a draftsman and designer. During these years, Master Corporal Castillo met and soon married his young wife Sylvia and started university studying Civil Engineering.

Before long the active young soccer player’s skills were coveted by the first division team and they offered him a contract. However, a business deal for partnership in a construction company to design vacation homes offered greater stability for his family while he was still studying in university.

It was during those years of study that he and his fellow students came under attack by forces he describes as the Guatemalan military. “I was just standing at a bus stop outside of the school when the military came. They stormed in and some people they shot on the spot, others they took aboard their vehicles and they were just never heard from again.”

These attacks, describes Master Corporal Castillo, were in reaction to the university’s stance of promoting social values - values he says did not coincide with those of a Guatemalan military attempting to wrest power from the democratically elected government. The attacks came coupled with threatening phone calls to leave the school or die. Wanting to protect the safety of his family, he left school and made the decision that he and his wife would move to Canada.

In 1991, his application for permanent residency in Canada was granted and he and his wife hurriedly sold their share of the construction business. They gathered what money they could and departed for Canada. “We were given a week to arrive in Canada once we got our notification, so I had to rush to close out my part of my business with my partner. I only managed to pull about $10,000 together before we left,” he said.

Arrival in Canada did not mean the end of challenges. “When I arrived in Canada, I did not speak any English. I had to learn fast. During my first month here I got an apartment, a vehicle and a job,” said Master Corporal Castillo. He also attended classes at night to study English and gain Canadian educational equivalencies.

Soon after gaining permanent resident status, Master Corporal Castillo and his wife discussed a potential career in the Canadian military. “It may seem like an odd choice after my previous experience with the military in Guatemala to decide to serve, but I knew of the reputation of the Canadian Forces; they were respected as peacekeepers and soldiers. I needed experience working in Canada and a career in the Reserves seemed like a good opportunity,” he said.

Since joining the Reserve Force as an Army administration clerk, Master Corporal Castillo stated he has experienced many challenges and opportunities; he worked as a full-time Reservist for almost three years before being convinced the CF was his employer of choice. He transferred his career over to become a Regular Force resource management support clerk for a couple of years before finding his true interest in computers and technology by transferring to Canada’s Air Force as an aerospace telecommunications and information systems technician.

Master Corporal Castillo enjoys his trade for the daily technical challenges and the opportunities to travel on operations with his unit, which is in high demand. He appreciates the stability that comes from the fact that all members of his professional group are located at 8 Wing Trenton. “My choice to join the Canadian Forces was the right one for me and I am very proud of my service; I know that my family is also very proud of me,” he said. Master Corporal Castillo has been married for 24 years and has a 23-year-old daughter and an 18-year-old son.

Publication Date : 18 March 2010

Stories from the Olympics

Air Force Moves Into Civilian Aerodromes for Olympics

A Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) A-Star helicopter lands beside Canadian Forces CH-146 Griffon helicopters at the Whistler Heliport in January 2010 as the two organizations begin preparations to integrate during Vancouver 2010 security operations. Operation PODIUM is the CF contribution to the overall security of the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games in support of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP)-led Integrated Security Unit. The Air Force’s contribution is two-fold: it includes the Air Component Command of Joint Task Force Games, which provides airlift, medical evacuation and area surveillance for the RCMP; and NORAD, which ensures airspace security.

Photo credit: Master Corporal Tom Trainor, 8 Wing Trenton Imagery

By: Lieutenant Shalako Smith

Sharing space in civilian aerodromes has been a new and rewarding experience for Canadian Forces (CF) Air Component Command (ACC) personnel providing security for the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.

The ACC represents the Air Force’s support to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) for Olympic and Paralympic security. Since there are no Air Force bases in the lower mainland of British Columbia where the Olympics are taking place, the ACC had to explore a new option - moving into civilian aerodromes and operating side by side with civilian air operations.

For the Olympics, ACC personnel served at forward operating bases (FOBs) located in south-western British Columbia (Richmond, Squamish, Whistler and Pemberton), and for the Paralympics, are operating primarily out of Whistler, although there are still radar units set up in Squamish and Pemberton for the Paralympics. They experienced the challenges and opportunities presented by cohabitating in hangar and office space and sharing the airspace with various local civilian aviation companies.

On paper it was easy; the lease agreements for use of the buildings and the space were ironed out in advance of the pre-Olympics exercises involving Air Force equipment, and all documents were signed before the skids touched the ground. What was more difficult for operators was making adjustments to how business was done in order to respect the needs of their new neighbours.

For Major Sylvain Belanger, detachment commander of the Whistler Helipad, it was critical to ensure positive relationships were forged with their neighbours, the staff at Blackcomb Aviation. “When we first arrived [at the Whistler Helipad] in the fall of 2009, I met with the chief pilot and operations manager of Blackcomb [Aviation] and they had a few concerns. I mean, they have their own way of doing business and their initial concern was that our presence may have threatened that,” said the Major.

Captain Tressa Olson, operations officer of the FOB at the Squamish airport said the staff from Blackcomb Aviation and Glacier Air at her location expressed similar concerns. “When our ground crews first arrived [we brought with us] a lot of military foot and vehicle traffic on the taxiways, runways and in the general vicinity of the civilian aircraft and they were concerned,” said Capt Olson.

For both Maj Belanger and Capt Olson, communicating with the civilian staff in order to understand their concerns was the first and best step in ensuring the pressure was turned down on the situation and that everyone involved was happy. An additional challenge for both FOBs was the requirement for semi-open access for members of the public - at least to the non-military portions of the aerodromes. “There was a constant flow of civilian spectators accustomed to full access in order to watch aircraft land and take off,” said Capt Olson. At both locations, access to the FOB was tightly controlled by security personnel and restricted areas were fenced off, but access to areas used exclusively by the civilian companies was maintained.

It wasn’t all challenges though. In many cases, the relationships forged with the civilian staff helped the Air Force operators. From making connections with the local emergency response communities, to local flying knowledge about navigating the skies above the scenic B.C. mountains, the neighbours at the civilian aerodromes were there to help.

We were pleasantly surprised with how well things went,” said Maj Belanger. “Just knowing that they could come and meet with us if they had an issue really helped in keeping our relationships solid.”

Publication Date : 17 March 2010

Stories from the Olympics

The Navy’s Olympic Legacy

HMCS CALGARY, a Halifax-class frigate; HMCS WHITEHORSE, a Kingston-class maritime coastal defence vessel (on HMCS CALGARY’s right); an Orca-class patrol vessel, Caribou (on HMCS CALGARY’s left); United States Coast Guard Cutter (USCGC) MIDGETT, a high-endurance cutter (astern of HMCS CALGARY); USCGC CUTTYHUNK, a patrol boat (astern of USCGC MIDGETT); as well as smaller USCG response boats and Integrated Border Enforcement Team (IBET) vessels sail together in the Strait of Georgia March 1, 2010, before returning to their respective home ports.

Photo credit: MCpl Chris Ward, CFB Esquimalt Imaging Services

By: Lieutenant (Navy) Peggy Kulmala, Senior Public Affairs Officer, Joint Task Force Games, Maritime Component

Canadian Navy ships are back to their regular duties, Rigid Hulled Inflatable Boats (RHIBs) are out of the water on trailers and being shipped back to their place of origin across Canada, and hundreds of sailors are regaling their friends and families back home with the details of their “Olympic experience.”.

“The Canadian Navy continuously has ships and sailors at sea conducting a variety of activities such as support to domestic law enforcement, sovereignty patrols, force generation exercises and overseas deployments,” said Captain (Navy) Gilles Couturier, Commander of JTFG’s Maritime Component. “Our tasks during Vancouver 2010 were all in a day’s work for us. What was unique was the collaboration, of unprecedented scale and proximity, with sailors from across Canada, Regular Force and Reserve, and our regular partners in domestic maritime security working to get the job done.”

The Navy’s support to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP)-led Olympic marine security operations was executed in the form of increasing concentric circles focused on securing waterside Olympic venues and key locations.

During the Vancouver 2010 Olympics, Canadian Navy, United States Coast Guard (USCG), and United States Navy vessels patrolled their respective waters as part of their existing partnership in cross-border information sharing and law enforcement. During Operation PODIUM – the Canadian Forces (CF) contribution to the overall security of the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games – there was a Canadian frigate or destroyer in the Strait of Georgia, two Kingston-class coastal defence vessels in the approaches to Vancouver Harbour, and two Orca-class patrol vessels in Vancouver’s Inner Harbour. These ships were part of coordinated maritime surveillance patrols which, with CH-124 Sea King and CP-140 Aurora aircraft overhead, provided electronic inputs to build the vital picture of who was on the water.

Within the harbour itself, the Port Security Unit (PSU) – comprised of specifically trained naval reservists from across Canada – with embarked law enforcement officers, provided an on-scene law enforcement capability and patrolled RCMP-designated marine security zones.

“Working as an integrated team with the RCMP provided the PSU with a unique experience in this complex domestic security environment,” said Lieutenant-Commander Doug Martin, PSU Commanding Officer. “The same naval reservists who led the PSU effort will now pass their experience on to others. The Naval Reserve, which has a mandate for port security, is already putting this experience to good use with a large proportion of the PSU personnel moving on to support the upcoming Naval Centennial Fleet Reviews in Victoria and Halifax.”

In and around the busy Vancouver waterfront, the Combined Operational Dive Team (CODT), totalling more than 30 Clearance and Port Inspection divers from across Canada, worked in collaboration with RCMP dive teams to complete underwater security sweeps of Olympic venues and other key locations in Vancouver Harbour and False Creek, the waters off the Olympic Athletes Village.

“I am very proud of my team, and the legacy we each bring home with us,” said Lieutenant Commander Todd Dupuis, Officer Commanding the CODT. “The nature of integrated operations provided us an enhanced understanding of each team's procedures and equipment.”

And at the epicentre was Her Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) DISCOVERY, Vancouver’s Naval Reserve Division, the heart of Vancouver 2010 Olympic marine security operations. With HMCS DISCOVERY’s secure command and control capability, the RCMP-led Olympic Marine Operations Centre – manned by the RCMP, Navy, and other partners – had the required capability to coordinate on-water marine assets.

Located at Deadman Island in Vancouver’s beautiful Stanley Park, HMCS DISCOVERY also provided critical infrastructure to support the hundreds working out of Deadman Island. For example, its galley fed large numbers of people around the clock, and its logistics team provided administrative, transport and supply support to hundreds, adeptly managing the complexities of moving people and equipment from across Canada to and from Vancouver.

“Although keeping watch over the ocean approaches to Canada and its harbours is what the Navy does every day, each individual’s experience during Operation PODIUM adds to a collective breadth of experience that will support Canada’s domestic security well into the future,” concludes Captain (Navy) Couturier. “Our contribution to maritime security for the Vancouver 2010 Olympics is something all members of the Maritime Component should be proud of. We achieved our aim – allowing our athletes to do their best, bringing back an historic 14 gold medals.”

Publication Date : 16 March 2010

Stories from the Olympics

2010 Paralympic Winter Games – Soldier On

Minister Peter MacKay and members of Canada's Soldier On program, MCpl Jody Mitic, Maj Jay Feyko and Cpl Bill Kerr, as well as Member of Parliament Scott Andrews prepare for a sledge hockey demonstration at GM Place on the eve of the 2010 Paralympic Winter Games, March 12 to 21. The Soldier On program was developed in partnership with the Canadian Paralympic Committee to improve quality of life for ill or injured Canadian Forces personnel and former personnel through physical fitness, recreation and sport.

The Paralympic movement originally stemmed from a need for war veterans with disabilities to become more active through sport. As an integral partner within the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP)-led Integrated Security Unit (ISU), the Canadian Forces under OP PODIUM is directly involved in security operations for the Vancouver 2010 Winter Paralympic Games.

Photo credit: DND

Publication Date : 15 March 2010

Stories from the Olympics

2010 Paralympic Winter Games – Inspiring Hope

Capt Trevor Greene, the Canadian Forces officer injured during an attack by an axe-wielding Afghan youth in 2006, was the first torchbearer to carry the Paralympic Torch as it made its way through Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Esquimalt, B.C., on March 6, 2010, on its way to Vancouver. The Paralympic movement originally stemmed from a need for war veterans with disabilities to become more active through sport. The Paralympic Torch will arrive in Vancouver on March 12, when the Paralympic cauldron will be lit to officially open the 2010 Paralympic Winter Games. As an integral partner within the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP)-led Integrated Security Unit (ISU), the Canadian Forces under OP PODIUM is directly involved in security operations for the Vancouver 2010 Winter Paralympic Games.

Photo credit: Cpl Charles A. Stephen, CFB Esquimalt Imaging Services

By: Steve Fortin, French Editor, The Maple Leaf

When the 2010 Paralympic Winter Games open in Vancouver on March 12, 2010, there will be some very happy spectators in the crowd, cheering the athletes on and celebrating the 10th edition of this event.

The Canadian Forces (CF) Soldier On program will be well represented at this major sports event for athletes with disabilities. A delegation of 18 Canadian soldiers and family and friends, 32 people in all, will travel to Vancouver to experience the magic of the Paralympic Games and take part in the opening ceremonies, and events such as alpine skiing, biathlon, and ice sledge hockey. Several team members will also have the honour of carrying the Paralympic Flame.

Soldier On program manager Greg Lagacé is enthusiastic about what the 18 members of the Soldier On team are about to experience: ”We should make it clear that our mission is not to train elite athletes but to give those who are living with an injury or a disability the opportunity to participate in a sport in order to maintain a healthy lifestyle and enhance their independence. Being at the Paralympic Games in Vancouver has to be very motivating and stimulating for these CF members.”

Soldier On contributes to optimizing the functional independence of ill or injured CF personnel or former personnel by delivering programs and services, and facilitating and integrating opportunities that support their full and active participation in physical fitness, health promotion and sport. The program encourages ill and injured CF personnel to attain and maintain a healthy and active lifestyle, and supports them in increasing their independence, in developing new skills, and in achieving goals. It also furnishes an opportunity for them to socialize and explore common interests, and share learning experiences.

Moreover, the program highlights the potential of all Canadians with a disability. It seeks to establish partnerships with organizations working with people with disabilities in Canada and abroad. During their time in Vancouver, Soldier On officials will be finalizing partnerships with United Kingdom and United States forces. Participants from the three countries will be giving a training workshop on ice sledge hockey, and the Soldier On team will lead one on adapted curling.

”We are very pleased to be able to establish partnerships with ill or injured military personnel from England and the United States. This takes us back to the military roots of the Paralympic movement,” Mr. Lagacé says, adding that the first wellness programs for ill or injured soldiers were implemented after the Second World War. In 1944, the British government asked Sir Ludwig Guttmann, a German neurosurgeon and great sports enthusiast, to manage a spinal cord injury rehabilitation clinic at the Stoke Mandeville Hospital in Aylesbury, England. Dr. Guttman was so successful in using sport as a physical rehabilitation and clinical treatment tool for the injured soldiers, including many Canadians, that he decided to organize an international archery competition for injured and disabled people. Bit by bit, this small competition grew through the addition of other sports into the international sports and social event it is today – the Paralympic Games.

”For the 18 CF members going to Vancouver,” says Mr. Lagacé, ”the goal is to realize that a physical condition that may appear limiting at first sight really is not, and that sport and physical activity may be a source of motivation and independence.” He also indicated that during the Olympic and Paralympic Games, ill and injured military personnel from Manitoba will be giving a workshop on ice sledge hockey, while some of their colleagues from Valcartier will be taking part in a day of adapted skiing at Mount Owl’s Head, in Mansonville in Quebec’s Eastern Townships. Clearly, disabilities do not keep CF personnel on the sidelines.

”This, in fact, is the program’s mission,” explains Greg Lagacé. ”We want ill and injured soldiers to see what persons with disabilities can do and what opportunities are available to them. The best way to show off these athletic abilities is at the Paralympic Games. Here, athletes compete at a very high level, as evidenced by cross-country skier Brian McKeever, the first athlete to participate in both the Winter Olympics and Paralympics in the same year. What an inspiration for all the participants in the Soldier On program!”

The Soldier On team is expected to come back from British Columbia completely galvanized, and since enthusiasm is contagious, there will most certainly have a ripple effect. In the end, what really matters is that injured or ill soldiers know they can turn to the Soldier On program to explore what all the options are in a situation that too often is seen simply as ”disabling.”

Publication Date : 12 March 2010

Stories from the Olympics

A First Experience at Sea for Padre Dubé

Lt(N) Michel Dubé, military chaplain of Joint Task Force Games Maritime Component, back from a stay on board the destroyer HMCS ALGONQUIN off Vancouver on 13 February 2010 during Op PODIUM. Lt(N) Dubé is normally assigned to CFB Bagotville.

Photo credit: Corporal Rod Hopp, CFB Esquimalt Imaging Services

By: Lieutenant Gabriel Rousseau, Public Affairs Officer, Joint Task Force Games Maritime Component

When Michel Dubé enrolled in the Canadian Forces (CF) as a military chaplain in 2004, he checked off Army, Navy and Air on the enrolment form because he had no preference. Even though he was given the Navy uniform, Lieutenant (Navy) Dubé never got the chance to discover the world of the Navy, since he was assigned first to Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Valcartier and then CFB Bagotville. As part of Operation PODIUM during the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games, Lt(N) Dubé was assigned to Joint Task Force Games Maritime Component, which is supporting Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP)-led maritime security efforts. “Before I got here, I knew close to nothing about the Navy, neither the tradition nor the environment aboard the ships. This is a new experience for me,” said a smiling Padre Dubé, who is more accustomed to hearing the noise of CF-18s at CFB Bagotville than the purring of a ship engine.

It was as a result of a discussion at the start of the operation with Captain (Navy) Gilles Couturier, the maritime commander, that Lt(N) Dubé was given the opportunity to live a few days on board the destroyer Her Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) ALGONQUIN, which is conducting security patrols off Vancouver during Operation PODIUM.. People are taken to the ship aboard a CH-124 Sea King helicopter, which makes regular trips between the destroyer and the heliport of Naval Reserve Unit HMCS DISCOVERY, which houses the maritime component’s headquarters, the Olympic Marine Operations Centre. “Even though there’s so much I don’t know, I loved my stay on board and the team treated me really well,” said Lt(N) Dubé.

Lt(N) Dubé was given access to all the vessel’s departments and learned about the specialized anti-air defence function of the destroyer, which has a crew of roughly 195. He also fulfilled his function by offering chaplain services to the men and women on board. Although military chaplains do most of their work on solid ground, they are sometimes asked to participate in operations at sea. One of their roles, of course, is to provide spiritual guidance, but they must also work with CF members, regardless of their rank, when the need arises. “During my stay, I spoke with a lot of sailors. I had the privilege of serving a meal with the cooks, who also seem to be responsible for the good humour that prevails on board,” explained Lt(N) Dubé.

According to Padre Dubé, the Olympic fever that has taken over Vancouver has also reached the ships patrolling off shore. “At the Opening of the Games, team members who weren’t on duty got together to watch the ceremonies and everyone felt proud to be Canadian.”

In addition to Lt(N) Dubé’s time at sea aboard HMCS ALGONQUIN, he had other maritime experiences during Operation Podium on smaller ships and boats. “I would say yes without any hesitation to a deployment at sea, and I hope to have the opportunity to do so during my career,” concluded Dubé when asked if he would be ready for a deployment on a ship.

Publication Date : 11 March 2010

Stories from the Olympics

Part-time Diver Proud To Serve With Operation PODIUM

Master Seaman Jennifer Hart, a Port Inspection Diver with the Combined Operational Dive Team, exits the water following an underwater security sweep near the Vancouver Athletes Village at False Creek during Operation PODIUM. During Operation PODIUM, the Canadian Navy will conduct coordinated maritime surveillance patrols in the approaches to Vancouver Harbour, contribute to waterborne security operations within Vancouver Harbour and perform underwater sweeps of Olympic venues and key locations.

Operation PODIUM is the Canadian Forces contribution to the RCMP-led Integrated Security Unit (ISU), the unit responsible for security for the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Games. The ISU is comprised of people from the RCMP, the Canadian Forces and 118 law enforcement agencies from across Canada.

Photo credit: Master Corporal Chris Ward, CFB Esquimalt Imaging Services

By: Lieutenant (Navy) Peggy Kulmala, Senior Public Affairs Officer, Joint Task Force Games, Maritime Component

Master Seaman (MS) Jennifer Hart, a port inspection diver with the Combined Operational Dive Team (CODT), is proud to be part of Operation PODIUM, the Canadian Forces contribution to the overall security of the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.

“I am working alongside other Port Inspection Divers and Clearance Divers from across Canada,” said the 28-year old diver, who typically dives with teams from the Western Region. “Working with dive teams from the Central and Eastern regions brings me new ideas and contact with some pretty interesting people.”

The CODT, comprised of dive teams from Maritime Forces Pacific, Maritime Forces Atlantic and Naval Reserve Divisions from across Canada, has been hard at work since early January, conducting underwater security sweeps of Olympic venues and key locations. “I know the work we are doing is behind the scenes, no-one will notice,” the modest diver added. “But I’m proud to be doing something so important.”

But MS Hart’s hard work has not gone unnoticed. During a pre-Olympic security exercise in October 2009, Captain (Navy) Gilles Couturier, Commander of Joint Task Force Games Maritime Component, recognized MS Hart for her hard work during an underwater search for a C7 magazine that had been accidently dropped in Vancouver Harbour. Despite poor visibility, MS Hart eventually was the diver to find the rifle magazine - by sifting through the bottom sediment until she found the magazine by touch.

MS Hart, a part-time naval reservist from Her Majesty’s Canadian Ship MALAHAT, Victoria’s Naval Reserve Division, is a Medical Laboratory Technologist with the Vancouver Island Health Authority, where she analyzes patient samples to provide results to physicians to aid their determination of diagnoses.

Taking time off from her demanding civilian job, she volunteered to train for and serve with Operation PODIUM, which is now giving her some new and unique opportunities she would not otherwise have had as a part-time diver. “As part of this team, I get to use some equipment I wouldn’t normally have access to, such as the Canadian-made Shark Marine, underwater sonar that enhances searches of the harbour bed, ships’ hulls and infrastructure,” said MS Hart.

Although MS Hart has been to Vancouver many times, both for diving exercises with Western Region dive teams and for personal reasons, she is enjoying her time in Vancouver. “It’s cool to see the different people from different places enjoying the views and beauty of Vancouver,” she said of her trips to downtown Vancouver in her off-time. “I am looking forward to a day off to go snowboarding in Whistler!”

Publication Date : 10 March 2010

Stories from the Olympics

Image Tech: Ready Aye Ready

Corporal Roderick Hopp, an Imagery Technician with Joint Task Force Games Maritime Component, videotapes a CH-124 Sea King helicopter landing February 4, 2010, at the helicopter landing pad at HMCS DISCOVERY, Vancouver’s Naval Reserve Division and heart of Royal Canadian Mounted Police-led Olympic marine security efforts.

Photo credit: Master Corporal Chris Ward, CFB Esquimalt Imaging Services

By: Master Corporal Chris Ward, Joint Task Force Games, Maritime Component, Imaging Services

Corporal (Cpl) Roderick Hopp, one of two Imagery Technicians with Joint Task Force Games Maritime Component, is happiest when he is on the water, despite wearing CADPAT with Air Force markings.

Rain or shine, Cpl Hopp is always the first to volunteer for an imagery tasking relating to getting on (or over) marine security assets, large or small.

“It’s the rush of hanging out of the helo taking pictures or speeding around in a Canadian Navy RHIB,” said Cpl Hopp. “I like anything that gets the adrenaline going.”

“It is exciting to be able to do my job within Canada,” said Cpl Hopp of his experiences with Operation PODIUM, the Canadian Forces (CF) contribution to the overall security of the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralymic Winter Games. “It’s not very often that we get to take part in an operation within our own borders.”

Back home in Victoria, Cpl Hopp volunteers with the Victoria Police Department, where he finds his military skills, such as observation and accurate note taking, come in handy. He has also on occasion photographed graffiti for police records.

“Our main goal as volunteers is to be a visible presence on the streets in support of the Victoria Police Department crime prevention activities,” he said. “We talk to people about securing their vehicles and personal belongings to prevent break-ins. Vehicle theft is a big problem within the city,” he added, referring to how the volunteers also provide assistance to the general public.

During the course of Operation PODIUM, Cpl Hopp has gained valuable experience shooting footage, editing video, developing his writing skills, as well as gaining a new-found appreciation for other law enforcement agencies and CF trades.

“I think the biggest thing I am enjoying here is working with other agencies as well as other military elements and trades, all within the same operation,” he added, referring to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP)-led Olympic security efforts – which some say is the largest integrated domestic security operation in Canadian history.

Publication Date : 09 March 2010

Stories from the Olympics

Canadian Forces OP PODIUM – East Coast Sailors Adjust to “Tropical” West Coast

The Orca-class patrol vessel named Orca, sails into Vancouver Harbour on a patrol in February 2010 during Operation PODIUM. Operation PODIUM is the Canadian Forces (CF) contribution to the overall security of the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games in support of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP)-led Integrated Security Unit. During Operation PODIUM, the Canadian Navy will conduct coordinated maritime surveillance patrols in the approaches to Vancouver Harbour, contribute to waterborne security operations within Vancouver Harbour and perform underwater sweeps of Olympic venues.

 

Photo credit: Master Corporal Chris Ward, Canadian Forces Base Esquimalt Imaging Services

By: Sub-Lieutenant Jamie Bresolin, Orca-class Patrol Vessel Raven

It’s not often that sailors can travel 6500 kilometres in one day. Usually, travelling by sea – as is our custom – such a distance would take upwards of 20 days. But through the wonder of flight, 19 members of Her Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) IROQUOIS and I made our way from Halifax to Victoria on January 27, 2010.

For some, it was a homecoming, for others, a flashback to days spent training at Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Esquimalt. For some, it was a first glimpse into the tropical wonder of the winter we have heard so much about from the famous “oh, the weather out here is amazing” west coasters. But for all, it was a break from the outdoor hockey rinks and an interruption from the cold crisp air.

It has been an adjustment adapting to the west coast ways and traditions, and it is still remarkable to realize that our family and friends in Halifax are getting ready to turn in for the evening when we are just finishing dinner.

The tropical western climate had us folks from HMCS IROQUOIS sweating and wondering how on earth west coast sailors could be wearing their weather jackets. We watched in amazement as HMCS CALGARY cruised by us, those on the upper decks outfitted for a good “nor’easter.” In fact, if you listened closely, you could hear a persistent “man, it’s right balmy here, eh?” echo throughout Raven during the day.

Nevertheless, the folks from HMCS IROQUOIS have now adapted to the numbing heat and absurd hockey times, and have begun to embrace the beautiful scenery and warm temperatures – especially when we hear the weather reports from back home.

Whatever it is we thought about coming out west, HMCS IROQUOIS sailors are happy to crew the highly manoeuvrable Orca-class patrol vessel, the mighty Raven, patrolling areas in and around Vancouver Harbour during Operation PODIUM, the Canadian Forces contribution to the overall security of the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.

The next six weeks will be away from home and family and as such, the crew ,although still in Canada, might as well be anywhere in the world doing our jobs. Nevertheless, it is a job we are happy to do and we are excited about our contribution to Royal Canadian Mounted Police-led Olympic marine security efforts. It is definitely a nice change to leave the harbour and be surrounded by mountains rather than the vast Atlantic Ocean, and we are proud to represent the east coast in helping to ensure a safe and successful 2010 Olympic Winter Games.

Publication Date : 05 March 2010

Stories from the Olympics

Canadian Forces OP PODIUM - Lining Up for the Olympics

Canadian Forces member, Corporal Denis Persiyantsev, a Land Communication and Information Systems Technician (LCIS TECH), adjusts a satellite dish at a backcountry patrol base near Whistler, B.C., in February 2010 during Operation PODIUM.

Photo credit: Sergeant Frank Hudec, DND

By: Private Pierre-Olivier Laforce, 1CMBG HQ and Sigs

Operation PODIUM is the Canadian Forces (CF) contribution to the overall security of the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games in support of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP)-led Integrated Security Unit. With air, land and sea capabilities, the CF is helping the RCMP maintain security zones around Olympic venues and is helping monitor the air, land and sea approaches to Canada’s west coast.

Many people are unaware how much work is required to set up and maintain cable infrastructure in camps such as OP PODIUM’s Cal-Cheak, located just southwest of Whistler, B.C. And while for most of us, Internet and phone lines are basic necessities, they don’t grow on poles like apples on trees - they are the fruits of a lineman’s labour.

The lineman trade in the Canadian Forces is quite small, but 17 members were brought in from across Canada to work at camp Cal-Cheak from September to December 2009, in support of the 2010 Olympic Games. The team was made up of linemen and women from Canadian Forces Joint Signals Regiment Kingston, 2 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group Headquarters and Signals Petawawa, and 1 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group Headquarters and Signals Edmonton.

From the project’s start, the team encountered and overcame various challenges, such as the camp’s location on a rock quarry, which made digging anywhere virtually impossible. Ironically, the rock cribs found in the environs proved the solution to this obstacle. Over 20 pole cribs were built to provide the additional four feet needed to support a 45-foot telephone pole and separate cribs for the guide anchor if needed. All of the rocks found inside these cribs were picked, transported and placed by hand.

Accuracy, neatness and speed are the duties of the lineman, and the only acceptable result is total effectiveness. Teamwork and trust are also very important, as linemen and women are often required to climb various structures. Poles ranging from 30 to 90 feet high, 600-foot towers, confined spaces of manholes and attics, and rooftops and trees are not off limits for these workers. For their safety, lineman are trained and qualified to perform rescue operations in the unlikely event of an accident.

For some readers, this is the first time you may have learned about the lineman trade. For others, this is simply confirmation of the dedicated and valued work these men and women do for the Canadian Forces. But for all, this story is a reminder that - especially with all the communications tools required to help make the 2010 Olympic Games a success - even a simple phone call shouldn’t be taken for granted.

Security and public safety agencies from all levels of government are working together during the Games to ensure they are prepared to respond to any potential emergency on land, at sea or in the air.

Publication Date : 03 March 2010

Canadian Forces OP PODIUM - Shifting the Focus to the 2010 Paralympic Winter Games

A Canadian Forces (CF) ORCA-Class patrol vessel (gray ship, approx centre of photo) sails through Vancouver harbour past the City of Vancouver during CF Operation Podium in February 2010 with a flotilla of other vessels in support of the RCMP-led Vancouver 2010 Olympic marine security and safety operations. Canada’s Navy provided several classes of ships for Op Podium. Other vessels shown in the flotilla above were from the RCMP, Vancouver Police Department, Canadian Coast Guard, Port Metro Vancouver Authority, and the Canadian Border Services Agency.

Photo credit: Master Corporal Chris Ward

The Vancouver 2010 Winter Games represented a tremendous opportunity to showcase Canada to the world, and the world looked to Canada to host safe and secure Games. The RCMP-led Vancouver 2010 ISU’s overriding priority was to provide an effective and integrated security model, yet not distract attention from the athletes and the Games.

Canadian Forces (CF) support to the ISU was provided as Operation PODIUM, executed by maritime, land and air components of Joint Task Force Games, under the command and control of Canada Command. The unique capabilities the CF provided included internal communications planning, air mobility support, maritime surveillance, port security operations, mountain terrain and back-country surveillance, and search and rescue.

With the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games now over, the Canadian Forces role in supporting the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP)-led Integrated Security Unit (ISU) security operations is now changing focus. Having successfully fulfilled its mandate to work with police and other security partners to ensure safe and secure Olympic Games, the Canadian Forces (CF) is preparing to support the upcoming Paralympic Games as part of its ongoing Operation PODIUM.

The 2010 Paralympic Winter Games will take place from 12-21 March, 2010, in Whistler, and Vancouver, British Columbia.

Publication Date : 02 March 2010

Commander’s Message to Canadian Forces Personnel Involved in Supporting the Olympics

Commanders and members of the operational-level headquarters of the Canadian Forces came together for a group photograph in Ottawa on February 26th, 2010, to salute the tremendous contribution made by Canadian Olympians in raising the profile of Canada on the world stage. The Olympians have brought tremendous pride to Canadians across this great land and wherever they may be around the world! Canada Command is responsible for the Canadian Forces support to the RCMP-led mandate to provide a safe and secure Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Photo credit: Corporal Kevin Sauvé, with assistance from Ladder 51 Platoon, Ottawa Fire Services.

On February the 12th, Canadians came together as a nation to celebrate the opening of the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic games. For the Canadian Forces (CF) this day held extra significance as it was the culmination of years of planning and preparation for Operation Podium, the largest domestic operation undertaken by the Canadian Forces under a single command.

I would like to acknowledge the hard work, dedication and planning efforts of the thousands of soldiers, sailors and air force personnel who have contributed to the success of Op Podium. Because of your exceptional support for the RCMP-led security force, Canadians and visitors alike were able to safely and securely gather in Vancouver and Whistler in celebration and sport. For the 4,500 CF personnel who were deployed as part of Joint Task Force Games I would also like to acknowledge and thank your families for their tremendous support during your deployment.

While some of you will soon be redeploying to your home units, others will remain to support the Paralympics being held 12-21 March 2010. But as you remain vigilant and focused on the mission that lies ahead I also urge you to take a moment to cheer on the brave men and women who make up our Paralympic teams. These athletes, like many of our members who have been injured in the line of duty, showcase the limitless possibilities of the human spirit in spite of adversity.

When Canada Command was established on 1 February 2006 one of its first tasks was planning for Op Podium. In fact supporting an international event in Canada such as the Vancouver Olympics is one of the six core missions of the Canada First Defence Strategy. Each of you has played an important role in successfully fulfilling this mandate. Working together with the RCMP and other mission partners, we have shared a piece of Canadian history and contributed to building a new security architecture for the 21st century.

Bravo Zulu

Vice-Admiral Bruce Donaldson
Commander, Canada Command

Publication Date : 01 March 2010

Canadian Forces OP PODIUM - Security Sweeps an Adrenalin-Pumping Experience for CF Diver

Canadian Forces (CF) member, Leading Seaman David Leigh, a member of the Combined Operational Dive Team for Operation PODIUM, uses the Dive Xtras CUDA underwater propulsion devise, also known as Scooter, during a February 2010 underwater security sweep of Canada Place in Vancouver Harbour during Op PODIUM.

Photo credit: Master Corporal Chris Ward, Canadian Forces Base Esquimalt Imaging Services

By: Lieutenant (Navy) Peggy Kulmala, Senior Public Affairs Officer, Joint Task Force Games Maritime Component

Operation PODIUM is the Canadian Forces (CF) contribution to the overall security of the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games in support of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP)-led Integrated Security Unit.

During Operation PODIUM, the Canadian Navy is conducting coordinated maritime surveillance patrols in the approaches to Vancouver Harbour, contributing to waterborne security operations within Vancouver Harbour, and performing underwater sweeps of Olympic venues and key locations.

CF member, Leading Seaman (LS) Phil Henry, as well as nine other clearance divers with the Operation PODIUM Combined Operational Dive Team, took part in preliminary security sweeps of select storm outfalls under waterside Olympic venues and other key locations in January 2010.

For LS Henry, a well-seasoned Navy diver with more than eleven years of experience, the security sweeps within the dark salt-water-filled outfalls were certainly out of the ordinary, at times providing him just enough water to freely manoeuvre. “When the storm outfall narrowed, I would have to use my hands to clear myself,” said LS Henry. “Diving in a water-filled outfall is certainly rare!”

LS Henry was equipped with surface-supplied air and lighting and remained in constant radio contact with his safety team on the surface. “It is a challenge to dive in a confined space and overhead, where you are not able to directly surface,” said LS Henry. “I jumped at the opportunity.”

“Operation PODIUM is certainly providing me with some adrenaline-pumping experiences!” exclaimed LS Henry. “I now have some great experiences to put under my belt.”

Operation PODIUM is the Canadian Forces’ unique contribution to a safe and secure Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. During the Games, security and public safety agencies from all levels of government are working together to ensure they are prepared to respond to any potential emergency on land, at sea or in the air.

Publication Date : 25 February 2010

Canadian Forces OP PODIUM – Coast Guard Cookies Support Marine Security Patrols

Canadian Forces (CF) member, Leading Seaman Robin McKee receives fresh baked cookies and muffins from Brad Forster (right), a crewmember aboard the Canadian Coast Guard Ship VECTOR, on behalf of his crewmates, Master Seaman Ryan Fagan, Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) Staff Sergeant Serge St-Denis and Ordinary Seaman David Gabriel while on a marine security patrol in the Vancouver Harbour during CF Operation PODIUM in February 2010.

Photo credit: Master Corporal Chris Ward, Canadian Forces Base Esquimalt Imaging Services

By: Lieutenant (Navy) Peggy Kulmala, Joint Task Force Games Maritime Component Public Affairs Officer

Rain or shine, around the clock during Operation Podium, there are sailors and law enforcement personnel on the water in open boats, patrolling the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP)-designated marine security zones in support of waterborne security operations in Vancouver Harbour. Operation PODIUM is the CF contribution to the overall security of the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games in support of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP)-led Integrated Security Unit. During OP PODIUM, the Canadian Navy will conduct coordinated maritime surveillance patrols in the approaches to Vancouver Harbour, contribute to waterborne security operations within Vancouver Harbour, and perform underwater sweeps of Olympic venues.

“This time of year, the elements can be horrid within Vancouver Harbour, “said Petty Officer, First Class (PO1) Jonathon Forth, a senior naval reserve boatswain with the Operation PODIUM Port Security Unit. “A typical marine security patrol can be at speeds of five to 10 knots, so when it rains, it can feel like stinging needles on your face.”

In addition to providing on-water support to marine security units, Canadian Coast Guard Ship (CCGS) VECTOR has been building inter-agency camaraderie by offering Olympic marine security patrols a brief respite from the elements, including a coffee to go or a quick rest stop.

“The Vancouver 2010 Games represent an exciting opportunity for Canada and the Coast Guard,” said Captain Mike McCullagh of CCGS VECTOR. “We’re very happy to be working with our marine security colleagues during the Games and participating in this extraordinary event.”

CCGS VECTOR, positioned in Vancouver Harbour for the duration of the Olympic Games, provides additional Search and Rescue and environmental response support if required, as well as serving as an additional surveillance platform in the harbour.

But for those cold individuals on long Olympic security marine patrols, they are thankful for CCGS VECTOR’s generosity, sailing away from the distinctive red and while vessel with a tasty Olympic Marine Security souvenir – the Coast Guard’s renowned chocolate chip cookies fresh from the ship’s galley.

“Regardless of where we call home, or which uniform we wear, we are mariners at heart, and all understand being on the water often includes enduring nasty weather and sometimes even boredom,” said Captain (Navy) Gilles Couturier, Commander of Joint Task Force Games Maritime Component. “What we see here are mariners pulling together as a team, demonstrating the mutual friendship and professional regard we have for each other”

“We are happy to do our jobs,” adds PO1 Forth, speaking on behalf of his team, Red Watch, one of the marine security teams who, with embarked law enforcement officers, conduct waterborne security operations within Vancouver Harbour during the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. “We’d definitely come back.”

Publication Date : 24 February 2010

Canadian Forces OP PODIUM - Medical technicians take to the sky for life saving training

Candidates from the Forward Aeromedical Evacuation Specialist course perform emergency care on a simulated casualty under close supervision of their instructors at the Whistler Heliport during the practical portion of the week-long course.

Operation PODIUM is the Canadian Forces (CF) contribution to the overall security of the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games in support of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP)-led Integrated Security Unit. With air, land and sea capabilities, the CF will help the RCMP maintain security zones around Olympic venues and will help monitor the air, land and sea approaches to Canada's west coast.

During the Games, security and public safety agencies from all levels of government are working together to ensure they are prepared to respond to any potential emergency on land, sea or in the air. The scope and scale of these Games will make it the largest domestic security operation to date in Canadian history.

Photo credit: Master Corporal Tom Trainor, 8 Wing Trenton Imaging

By: Lieutenant Shalako Smith, Joint Task Force Games Air Component Public Affairs Officer

As search and rescue technicians (SAR Techs) perform their lifesaving duties in Haiti, the Canadian Forces (CF) look to their medical technicians (med techs) here in Canada to perform the all too important casualty evacuation function at home during Operation PODIUM.

To ensure they are up to the task, eight med techs are undergoing a new type of training during the early days of Operation PODIUM to ensure they are skilled, capable and responsive should they be called upon to help save the life of a CF soldier, seaman, airman or airwoman or a member of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) by combining their medical knowledge and skill with the transportation capability of the CH-146 Griffon helicopter.

The Forward Aeromedical Evacuation Specialist course was first taught in January 2009, and was born out of the need to address critical casualty evacuations in Afghanistan. At present, the course has been completed by 25 CF members but with the anticipated graduation by the latest class on February 5, 2010, that number will grow to 33. The previous graduates have served or are currently serving in Afghanistan while the latest class will support Operation PODIUM.

The course officer for the latest course serial, Major Dominique Laplante of 426 Training Squadron at 8 Wing Trenton, Ont., said this course, normally conducted out of 8 Wing, has been brought out to Whistler, B.C., to ensure that if there is a need, CF med techs serving in the area are trained to provide casualty evacuation for CF troops.

“It was recognized that we have to be able to support our troops at home and in Afghanistan and we need to be able to provide this capability,” said Major Laplante.

The course consists of in-class lectures discussing the flying environment, stresses of flight, and in-flight care as well as familiarization with the Griffon, the aircraft most likely to be used for casualty evacuation during Operation PODIUM. The practical portion of the training adapts the med techs pre-hospital medical protocols to the air environment, and teaches multiple methods of loading and unloading casualties from a rotary wing aircraft and how to provide in-flight casualty care at night when the use of light in the aircraft would obstruct the pilots’ vision.

Corporal Matthew Imamshah, a course candidate from 23 Health Services Centre in Winnipeg, Man., and working out of camp Cal-Cheak near Whistler, B.C., feels the material he is learning will provide a valuable tool for his med tech toolbox. He understands that working safely along with air assets can help expedite the transfer of a casualty to the appropriate medical authority and will help save lives.

Course candidates were drawn from camps and bases all over the Olympic joint operations area in order to provide adequate coverage to all CF troops deployed for the operation. Many of them have been involved in various medical build-up training courses and exercises since September 2009.

According to Major Laplante, the goal is to have a minimum of 40 med techs trained on the Forward Aeromedical Evacuation Specialist course. She calls the capability “vital.”

“For a casualty [this training] means faster evacuation, faster care and faster transportation to a medical facility. It really saves lives,” she said.

Operation PODIUM is the CF contribution to the overall security of the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games in support of the RCMP-led Integrated Security Unit. The Air Force’s contribution is two-fold: the Air Component Command of Joint Task Force Games, which provides airlift, medical evacuation and area surveillance for the RCMP; and NORAD, which will ensure airspace security.

Publication Date : 23 February 2010

Canadian Forces OP PODIUM - “Our strength lies in the team”

Captain (Navy) Gilles Couturier, Commander of Joint Task Force Games Maritime Component, performs in a skills competition during a Canadian Forces Appreciation Night at a Canucks hockey game in Vancouver, November 1, 2009.

Photo credit: Master Corporal Chris Ward, Canadian Forces Base Esquimalt Imaging Services.

Portrait of Captain (Navy) Gilles Couturier,
Commander of Joint Task Force Games Maritime Component
By: Lieutenant Gabriel Rousseau

As athletes converge on Vancouver for the 2010 Olympic Winter Games, military personnel from across Canada are already on site as part of Operation PODIUM, whose goal is to support to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP)-led security effort to ensure that no incidents mar this international sporting event. Capt(N) Gilles Couturier, Commander of the Maritime Operations Group Four at Esquimalt, is at the helm of the Maritime Component of Joint Task Force Games.

A native of Sept-Îles, Capt(N) Couturier enlisted in the Canadian Forces as a young adult. “One of my friends who played hockey with me enlisted in the Navy, and once when his ship tied up in my town, he gave me a tour and I was very interested,” he explains, pointing out that he was looking for something other than a 9-to-5 job. After finishing university in Montréal, Capt(N) Couturier started his career with the Canadian Navy on board Her Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) SKEENA. “What I always loved about ships is the feeling of camaraderie on board,” he says. After five years, he was assigned to Headquarters in Halifax as Flag Lieutenant to the Chief of the Maritime Staff (CMS), a position that gave him a grasp of how the Navy’s upper echelon worked. Later, as Combat Officer for the Pacific Fleet, he had the opportunity to be the battle group operations officer on board the American aircraft carrier USS ABRAHAM LINCOLN for RIMPAC 2000.

If you drop by Capt(N) Couturier’s headquarters, the atmosphere is relaxed but it is obvious that people take their work seriously. A small group will be gathered in an office discussing the work at hand. This is just what Capt(N) Couturier, a great believer in teamwork, wants. “I love hockey and I grew up playing the game. I want the members of my team to work together towards a common goal, just like a group of players on the ice.” As an example, he cites Wayne Gretzy, who was definitely a great player but also needed his teammates to win. Beyond the world of sports, Capt(N) Couturier was deeply influenced by the superior officers under whom he had the privilege of serving. For example, he was Executive Assistant to the Chief of the Defence Staff, General Rick Hillier, for eight very busy months. Today, he puts the lessons he learned rubbing shoulders with these high-ranking officers, who had enormous responsibilities, into practice. “You have to give people the opportunity to perform at their level of responsibility,” he insists, talking about how he exercises his command. When he assigns duties to a member of his team, he lets that person take care of the details, while he focuses on the result.

Capt (N) Couturier has been handed an important job as Commander of Joint Task Force Games Maritime Component. “There was no instruction book. We had to start planning from scratch. As several partners were involved, we took the time to sit down together and flesh out a solid marine security plan. The Maritime Component, like the rest of the Canadian Forces participating in Operation PODIUM, is providing support to the RCMP, which is tasked with providing security for the 2010 Olympic Games. Those in command have created an integrated structure involving all the partners. Marine efforts are centred at the Olympic Marine Operations Centre located at the HMCS DISCOVERY Naval Reserve Division in Vancouver. Cooperating with the RCMP is not new to Capt(N) Couturier who commanded the HCMS FREDERICTON during Operation CHABENEL in 2006 off the African coast. That joint effort led to the seizure of a record 22.5 tonnes of hashish destined for markets in Eastern Canada. “Thanks to that experience, I know how the RCMP works, and our collaboration on Operation PODIUM is excellent,” he adds.

Now that operations are off to good start, Capt(N) Couturier plans to spend more time in the field to see how the work being done by the troops on a daily basis is going. “Our strength lies in the team: every person has an important role to play, and I want to encourage the members of the Maritime Component in their day-to-day duties so they know we appreciate their efforts to carry out this mission with dedication and professionalism,” he says with an air of confidence.

Publication Date : 22 February 2010

Canadian Forces OP PODIUM - HMCS WHITEHORSE Supports Olympic Marine Security

In February 2010, in support of Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP)-led Olympic security efforts in the Vancouver area, HMCS WHITEHORSE, a Kingston-class maritime coastal defence vessel, takes part in a route survey tasking to provide an up-to-date map of the seabed.

The RCMP-led Integrated Security Unit (ISU) is responsible for all security operations during the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. The ISU is comprised of personnel from the RCMP, the Canadian Forces and other Canadian police services.

During the Games, security and public safety agencies from all levels of government are working together to ensure they are prepared to respond to any potential emergency on land, at sea or in the air. The scope and scale of these Games will make it the largest domestic security operation to date in Canadian history.

Photo credit: Corporal Roderick Hopp, Canadian Forces Base Esquimalt Imaging

By: Lieutenant (Navy) Michael Willis, HMCS WHITEHORSE

HMCS WHITEHORSE, a Kingston-class maritime coastal defence vessel, was in the vicinity of Vancouver Harbour late January to early February operating the “Dorado,” an autonomous underwater vehicle that uses high-resolution side-scan sonar to survey the ocean floor.

“While the survey data may be useful to the RCMP-led Vancouver 2010 security operations, the Olympics is not the sole reason for the survey,” said Lieutenant Commander Brad Henderson, HMCS WHITEHORSE’s Commanding Officer. “The Canadian Navy has a mandate to maintain an accurate picture of the seabed within our territorial waters. This survey is part of a larger operation that has been ongoing for many years.”

During OP PODIUM, the Canadian Forces contribution to Vancouver 2010 security efforts, HMCS WHITEHORSE, along with a variety of other Canadian Navy ships, will conduct coordinated maritime surveillance patrols in the approaches to Vancouver Harbour.

“The crew and I are very excited to participate in this very important and rewarding operation,” said Lieutenant-Commander Henderson. “Knowing that our work contributes to a safe Olympics will be one of the high points of our careers.”

Publication Date : 19 February 2010

Mountain Patrols in Support of Games Security

Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) Staff Sergeant Bill Hudyma (2nd from right) and Canadian Forces (CF) members of Land Component Command, Foxtrot Company, conduct a backcountry security patrol in Cypress Mountain, B.C. during Operation PODIUM, in February 2010. Op PODIUM is the CF contribution to the overall security of the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games in support of the RCMP-led Integrated Security Unit.M

Photo by: Sergeant Paz Quillé, Canadian Forces Combat Camera

By: Captain Adam Petrin, 7 Platoon Commander, C Company,
2^nd Battalion, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry

Sergeant Chris Harding of C Company, 2^nd Battalion, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry, has served overseas in several operational theatres, but taking his section on patrols in the mountains surrounding Whistler in support of the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympic Games is new to him.

“Being able to take my section on patrol in support of the Olympics is a great opportunity,” he said. “We have the chance to see some great scenery, learn some new winter skills and participate in Canada hosting its third Olympic Games.”

Athletes from over eighty countries are arriving in early February, and the Patricia’s of C Company will be patrolling the Whistler area in support of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP)-led security for the Athlete’s Village.

“Our soldiers are fit and ready to assist the RCMP by conducting presence patrols in the surrounding area,” Sergeant-Major Tim Halcro said. “They have the tools and the mindset to get the job done right and are providing excellent support to the RCMP.”

Although soldiers are trained to react to the “worst case scenario,” they have been briefed that 99 per cent of the situations they will be dealing with will simply be Canadians and international visitors enjoying the outdoors.

“We met a lady taking her three dogs for a walk down a hiking trail. She was out enjoying the day and wasn’t thinking about the security surrounding the Olympics at all,” said Sgt Harding. “My guys played with her dogs, explained the situation, and accompanied her out of the area. She totally understood what we were there to do.”

The Olympic Winter Games will be held from February 12 to 28, hosting over 1350 athletes and 1500 officials, and supported by 4500 Canadian Forces personnel.

Publication Date : 18 February 2010

London native proud to serve with RCMP-led Olympic security efforts

Ordinary Seaman Aaricka Winlaw stands guard February 1, 2010, to ensure the safety of personnel in the vicinity of the helicopter landing pad, while two CH-148 Griffon helicopters prepare to land at HMCS DISCOVERY, Vancouver’s Naval Reserve Division and home to Joint Task Force Games’ Maritime Component.

Photo credit: MCpl Chris Ward, CFB Esquimalt Imaging Services

By: Lieutenant (N) Peggy Kulmala

Ordinary Seaman (OS) Aarika Winlaw, a naval reservist from London’s Naval Reserve Division HMCS Prevost, is very proud to serve with Operation Podium, the Canadian Forces’ contribution to the overall security of the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.

OS Winlaw is a member of Joint Task Force Games’ Maritime Component Land Force Protection Section, a specialized unit that safeguards HMCS Discovery, Vancouver’s Naval Reserve Division and home to the RCMP-led Olympic Marine Operation Center.

“A lot of people applied,” said the 20-year-old reservist of her position with the Land Force Protection Section. “I am really happy to be part of Vancouver Olympic security efforts.”

Although she has been in British Columbia twice, OS Winlaw’s service with Operation Podium brings her west of the Rockies for the first time as an adult.

She started her pre-deployment training in Victoria September, 2009, leaving London at 6:00 a.m. in the morning, arriving in Victoria after 5:00 p.m.

“I fell asleep on the flight and I woke up just as we were flying over the snow-capped mountains,” said OS Winlaw. “It was very cool!”

In her free time, OS Winlaw enjoys taking in the sites and sounds of Vancouver.

“It is a beautiful city,” she said, commenting on the feel of the city leading up to the start of the Olympics. “Everyone is really pulling together as a community.”

OS Winlaw, who graduated from Fanshawe College’s photography program in 2009, will be continuing on to the University of Western Ontario’s language and literature undergraduate program in September 2010.

Although serving with Operation Podium will delay her academic studies for a year, she is content with her decision. “This is a once in a lifetime opportunity,” said OS Winlaw.

Publication Date : 15 February 2010

All Eyes on Vancouver - Let the Olympic Games Begin!

Cpl Jeremy Matte from Comox, B.C., (Air Force) raises the Olympic flag while MCpl Celine Lavigne from Bathurst, N.B., raises the Canadian Flag during the Canadian Olympic Team Welcome in the Olympic Village of Vancouver, on February 10, 2010. Their Excellencies, the Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean, Governor General and Commander in Chief of Canada, and Jean-Daniel Lafond, as well as The Right Honourable Stephen Harper, Prime Minister of Canada, were also in attendance.

Photo credit: Sgt Serge Gouin, Rideau Hall

The Canadian Forces (CF) has been front and centre in the security preparations for the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games, working with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP)-led Integrated Security Unit (ISU) to ensure that Canada is prepared to respond to any potential land, sea or air emergency.

Under Operation PODIUM, the CF contribution to the overall security of the V2010 Games, the CF has deployed sailors, soldiers, airmen and airwomen - 4500 strong - with Joint Task Force Games (JTFG), providing Navy support in the form of integrated maritime surveillance patrols, waterborne security operations, and underwater sweeps of Olympic venues; Army support teams to serve as “eyes and ears” for the RCMP in the mountainous backcountry around Olympic sites; Air Force support including movement of personnel and equipment, medical evacuation, and air support for patrols and aerial surveillance; and enhanced NORAD support to the RCMP through aerospace warning and control. As well the CF team transported the Olympic Flame and its delegation by Polaris CC-150 aircraft from Athens, Greece, to Victoria, B.C.; served as runners in the Olympic Torch Relay; and will be playing a ceremonial role at the Opening Ceremonies, raising the Olympic and Canadian flags.

JTFG, reporting to Canada Command, is the CF unit responsible for supporting the ISU in providing V2010 security. Canada Command provides the means by which commanders at the national and regional levels have the immediate authority to deploy maritime, land and air forces in support of domestic operations. The scope and scale of these Games will make it the largest domestic security operation in Canadian history.

For more information about security operations for the V2010 games, visit the V2010 ISU website at Vancouver 2010 Integrated Security Unit.

Publication Date : 12 February 2010

Canadian Forces Operation PODIUM - Canada’s Army Ready to Support RCMP-led V2010 Olympics Security

Photo credit: Sergeant Frank Hudec, Canadian Forces Combat Camera

A soldier from Charlie Company, 2nd Battalion, Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry, unloads supplies from a Bandvagn-206 (BV-206), in January 2010 at a remote observation post near Whistler B.C. in preparation for Operation PODIUM.

As the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games approach, Canada’s Army personnel are applying their broad experience and expertise in winter military operations, and their specialized equipment, in monitoring and maintaining security zones around Olympic venues. Activities include Canadian Army ATV and snowmobile surveillance and reconnaissance patrols in the mountainous backcountry, avalanche awareness and search and rescue preparedness, and mobility support to the civilian police.

Joint Task Force Games (JTFG), reporting to Canada Command, is the Canadian Forces (CF) unit responsible for supporting the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP)-led Integrated Security Unit (ISU) in providing V2010 security. The CF is providing unique and specific military capabilities, including maritime surveillance of the seaward approaches and coastal areas, air mobility support and surveillance, and land reconnaissance and surveillance patrols. Security and public safety agencies from all levels of government are working together to ensure they are prepared to respond to any potential emergency on land, sea or in the air. The scope and scale of these Games will make it the largest domestic security operation in Canadian history.

For more information about security operations for the V2010 games, visit the V2010 ISU website at Vancouver 2010 Integrated Security Unit.

Publication Date : 09 February 2010

Canadian Forces at Operational Readiness for Vancouver 2010 Olympics Security

Photo credit: Sergeant Frank Hudec, Canadian Forces Combat Camera

Canadian Forces (CF) soldiers from the Lord Strathcona's Horse (Royal Canadians) conduct a security patrol on a Land Over Snow Vehicle during Operation PODIUM in January 2010. Operation PODIUM is the CF contribution to the overall security of the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games in support of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). With air, land and sea capabilities, the CF will help the RCMP maintain security zones around Olympic venues and will help monitor the sea, land and air approaches to Canada's west coast. In preparation for the Games, security and public safety agencies from all levels of government are working together to ensure they are prepared to respond to any potential emergency on land, sea or in the air. The scope and scale of these Games will make it the largest domestic security operation to date in Canadian history.

The Vancouver 2010 Integrated Security Unit (ISU) announced on February 3, 2010, in Vancouver, B.C., that the Canadian Forces (CF) Operation Podium is operationally ready and prepared to implement security measures on land, air and sea.

Joint Task Force Games (JTFG) is responsible for planning and directing the involvement of the CF in security operations for the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games. As an integral partner within the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP)-led ISU for the Games, the CF is bringing its land-based expertise in winter military operations and its specialized equipment to the Cypress Mountain and Whistler areas, as well as providing maritime divers and navy patrols, and air surveillance and mobility support to the RCMP.

During the Games, JTFG’s maritime component of coastal defence and patrol vessels, including an Iroquois-class destroyer or Halifax-class frigate, will be conducting coordinated surveillance patrols, sharing vessel tracking information with the RCMP and other partners. In Vancouver Harbour, the CF Maritime Component’s Combined Operational Dive Team has completed installation of security booms to create a massive floating barrier encircling accommodation vessels housing security personnel, and the installation of the security barrier controlling access to the Olympic Athletes Village.

The Olympic Joint Operations Area covers approximately 10 000 square kilometres - from river deltas to snow-capped peaks, densely populated urban areas to tree-laden valleys. Land-based Operation Podium forces will be patrolling the Whistler area on foot, skis and snowshoes, and on Light Over Snow Vehicles, commonly known as snowmobiles. The air component of JTFG has aircraft including the CH-146 Griffon, CH-124 Sea King, CP-140 Aurora and CC-138 Twin Otter to provide airlift for RCMP and CF personnel and equipment, medical evacuation, and air support for RCMP patrols and area surveillance.

Canada Command was established in February 2006. It reaffirmed that the security of Canadians is the first priority for the CF. Canada Command provides the means by which commanders at the national and regional levels have the immediate authority to deploy maritime, land, and air forces in support of domestic operations. The Commander of Joint Task Force Pacific (JTFP), who is also the Commander of JTFG, is responsible to the Commander Canada Command for the conduct of all civil support operations within the defined JTFP and JTFG Areas of Responsibility. The Commander JTFP can respond to any crisis, national defence, security, or emergency assistance requirements in the Pacific Ocean approaches to Western Canada, or in British Columbia.

For more information about security operations for the V2010 Games, visit the V2010 ISU website at Vancouver 2010 Integrated Security Unit.

Publication Date : 08 February 2010

Canada’s Air Force ready for Olympic challenge

Photo credit: Sergeant Paz Quillé, Canadian Forces Combat Camera

A Royal Canadian Mounted Police Emergency Response Team prepares to board a Canadian Forces CH-146 Griffon helicopter at the Vancouver airport in response to a simulated incident during Exercises PEGASUS GUARDIAN 3 and SPARTAN RINGS. In preparation for securing the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, Exercises PEGASUS GUARDIAN 3 and SPARTAN RINGS took place in the Vancouver and Whistler area from October 19 to 23, 2009. These full-scale police and Canadian Forces exercises were focused on validating the readiness of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police-led V2010 Integrated Security Unit (ISU) and tested communications, planning and interoperability among various law enforcement agencies and the Canadian Forces.

Constant training key to overcoming challenging B.C. flying conditions

By Lt(N) David Lavallee, Joint Task Force Games Air Component Public Affairs Officer

Securing the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Games is a daunting assignment, one that the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, supported by the Canadian Forces and other security partners, have been working towards for years.

Nevertheless, the Air Component of Joint Task Force Games-the Air Force element of the CF’s support to the RCMP (dubbed “Operation PODIUM”) is up to the task.

With aircraft including the CH-146 Griffon, CH-124 Sea King, CP-140 Aurora and CC-138 Twin Otter, the Air Component represents a cross-section of Canada’s Air Force. Its main responsibilities will be to provide airlift for RCMP and CF personnel and equipment, medical evacuation for RCMP and CF members and air support for RCMP patrols and area surveillance.

After years of planning and a rigorous exercise period in the fall of 2009, Air Component Commander Colonel Bill Veenhof declared his team ready in the final week of January 2010.

“We have some of the brightest and hardest working people in the Canadian Forces serving with the Air Component for Operation PODIUM,” says Col. Veenhof. “Everything I’ve seen, from the planning to the exercises to our final days of preparation, tells me this team is more than ready for this challenge.”

And a challenge it will be. When it comes to terrain, the Olympic Joint Operations Area (JOA), approximately 10,000 square kilometres, is a mixed bag of features, from river deltas to snow-capped mountain peaks, densely-populated urban areas to tree-laden valleys. The Sea-to-Sky corridor from Vancouver to Whistler is just that, a stretch of land that starts at sea level and soars to heights over 2,000 metres high-in just 120 kilometres.

It’s not just the terrain. The Olympic JOA is home to some of North America’s most challenging weather conditions for flying-low ceilings, high winds, snow, rain, fog and sleet, for starters. Throw into the mix the fact that Operation PODIUM will run during the time of year when flying weather is at poorest, and the challenge seems even more intimidating.

This is complicated by the fact that the Air Component will draw personnel from every Air Force Wing across Canada, from Comox, B.C. to Goose Bay, N.L.

As always, however, the Air Force has adapted to these conditions and overcome them. How?

“Training, training and more training,” says Major Glen Lovsin, operations officer of the Composite Aviation Unit, which encompasses all the CH-146 Griffon helicopters assigned to the Air Component. “During Exercise SPARTAN RINGS in October 2009, most of our aircrew were able to get up in the air, get a feel for the area and get used to the conditions and the terrain.”

When the aircrew and aircraft arrived back in the JOA in January, they once again began a regime of flight training that involved increasingly complex operations. All of this has been focused on ensuring that the Air Component can do its part to help the RCMP deliver safe and secure Olympic Games.

“I’m very proud of these people,” says Col. Veenhof. “My job is to ensure they develop as a team and that they can safely operate in the beautiful province of British Columbia.”

For more information about security operations for the V2010 Games, visit the V2010 ISU website at Vancouver 2010 Integrated Security Unit.

Publication Date : 05 February 2010

Canadian Forces Operation Podium - Canada’s Navy Prepares to Support the RCMP for V2010 Olympics Security

Photo credit: Sergeant Paz Quillé, Canadian Forces Combat Camera

Canada’s Navy is fully engaged in support of the RCMP-led security operation for the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games. Activities will include Canadian Navy on-water security patrols around the RCMP-designated security perimeter safeguarding the three temporary Olympic accommodation vessels; dive operations, specifically underwater security sweeps of venues and key locations; and ships’ maritime surveillance patrols. In the above photo, Her Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) REGINA and United States Coast Guard Cutter MELLON are berthed alongside Canada Place in Vancouver in October 2009, during Exercises PEGASUS GUARDIAN 3 and SPARTAN RINGS. These full-scale police and Canadian Forces exercises were focused on validating the readiness of the Integrated Security Unit (ISU) in preparation for the Games.

Joint Task Force Games (JTFG) is the Canadian Forces (CF) unit responsible to Canada Command to assist the RCMP-led Integrated Security Unit (ISU) in providing security during the V2010 Games. The CF will provide unique and specific military capabilities in support of the RCMP, including maritime surveillance of the seaward approaches and coastal areas, and air mobility support and surveillance. Canadian Forces support to the ISU will be provided as Operation PODIUM, executed by maritime, land and air components of Joint Task Force Games (JTFG) under the command and control of Canada Command. The experience of planning and delivering security for the 2010 Olympics is helping to mature Canada’s new defence and security architecture. A strengthened national security architecture, involving a ‘whole-of-government approach,” will be one of the legacies left by the 2010 Games.

For more information about security operations for the V2010 Games, visit the V2010 ISU website at Vancouver 2010 Integrated Security Unit.

Publication Date : 02 February 2010

OP PODIUM - Inside Integrated Olympic Security

Captain (Navy) Gilles Couturier, Commander of Joint Task Force Games Maritime Component, Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) Sergeant Cameron Miller, Commander of the Olympic Marine Operations Centre (OMOC), and Sub-Lieutenant Chris Wong, Maritime Component watch officer (left to right) at a morning brief during Exercises PEGASUS GUARDIAN 3 and SPARTAN RINGS at Her Majesty's Canadian Ship DISCOVERY in Vancouver, B.C. Exercises PEGASUS GUARDIAN 3 and SPARTAN RINGS were full-scale police and Canadian Forces exercises that took place in the Vancouver and Whistler area from October 19 to 23, 2009 in preparation for securing the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. The exercises tested communications, planning and interoperability among various law enforcement agencies and the Canadian Forces and focused on validating the readiness of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police-led V2010 Integrated Security Unit (ISU).

Photo credit: Master Corporal Chris Ward, CFB Esquimalt Imaging Services

By Major Dan Thomas

The Canadian Forces (CF) has long played a supporting role in providing security to major athletic events, international political summits, and other special events held in Canada. In planning the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, the CF has also been an integral partner within the RCMP-led Vancouver 2010 Integrated Security Unit (V2010 ISU).

“It is mutually beneficial to have some CF planners embedded here in the V2010 ISU,” says RCMP Assistant Commissioner Bud Mercer, V2010 ISU Chief Operating Officer. “The Forces are one of the four ‘founding partners’ of the ISU, together with the RCMP and Vancouver and West Vancouver Police Departments. Working together here on a daily basis is a vital step in preparing to operate as a truly integrated force to support safe and secure Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.”

The ISU includes eight Regular and Reserve CF planners among approximately 500 personnel. Their roles include joint maritime, land, air, exercise, signals, public safety, and public affairs planning in a complex inter-agency environment. Multiple governmental and non-governmental jurisdictions are stakeholders in Games security - including local, regional, provincial, and federal agencies; host First Nations; Crown corporations and utilities; and the Vancouver Organizing Committee (VANOC).

While there are considerable challenges in coordinating policies, terminology, and other issues, the integrated nature of the V2010 ISU allows such differences to be quickly identified and addressed. In addition, the RCMP benefit from being the police force of jurisdiction in British Columbia and many of its municipalities. Since the CF’s presence within the 10,000 square kilometre Joint Operations Area (JOA) is generally limited to local Reserve units’ activities, we also gain from ongoing RCMP community relationships there. Recently, the CF has also participated in VANOC- and ISU-led outreach activities to help prepare the public for the temporarily elevated visibility of the CF.

The Games-time security work force incorporates approximately 6,000 police officers from 120 law enforcement agencies, 5,000 private security staff, and 4,500 CF members. They bring a variety of skills and experience levels, but are united under the guiding RCMP principle that the Olympics are a sports, not a security, event. This requires careful physical security planning, for example, where the professional capabilities of appropriate CF members add depth to the joint operation.

“The venues range in complexity from being situated in the heart of downtown Vancouver to being situated in the wilderness surrounding Whistler,” explains Major Don Saunders, a Military Engineer who is embedded in the ISU as a Physical Security Planner. “In planning the venue security operations, the unique skills of each of the ISU partners were examined and capitalized upon, which ultimately has shaped the CF’s contributions to the Games.”

“The Games have created an evolutionary change in the CF and RCMP in terms of how we work together,” agrees Lieutenant-Colonel Pat Koch, the original and senior CF planner in the ISU. “The results are permanent adaptation of collaborative and institutional policy and procedures that set the conditions for future domestic security events.”

Following the Olympics, Canada will continue to host international sports, cultural, and political events. All will require integrated security arrangements. The lessons learned here will benefit the CF and its partners, and are already being implemented. Under the auspices of Canada Command, knowledge transfer is currently under way to support the June 2010 Huntsville and Toronto G8 and G20 summits.

For more information about V2010 Olympic Games security, go to: Vancouver 2010 Integrated Security Unit.

Major Dan Thomas is the embedded CF Public Affairs Officer in the ISU. The above article was first published in the Volume 13, No. 2 issue (20 January 2010) of The Maple Leaf

Publication Date : 21 January 2010

OP PODIUM - Canadian Forces Stands Ready to Provide Unique Capabilities in Support of the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics

Soldiers from Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry (PPCLI) deployed into the mountains near Pincher Creek, Alberta during January and February 2009 on winter mobility training in preparation for Canadian Forces (CF) Operation Podium, CF support to the RCMP-led security operation for the V 2010 Olympic Games. The winter mobility training included avalanche awareness and rescue practice, essential skills necessary to operate in a mountain environment.

Photo: Canadian Forces, PPCLI

The Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games offer a tremendous opportunity to showcase Canada to the world, and the world will be looking to Canada to host safe and secure Games. To that end, Canada has taken a comprehensive approach to security planning, establishing the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP)-led Integrated Security Unit (ISU) to coordinate security for the Games. The ISU also includes members from the Vancouver Police Department, the West Vancouver Police Department, and the Canadian Forces. In the event of a real or perceived threat, or incident that requires a broader federal government response, Public Safety Canada will coordinate the response in support of the RCMP and other public safety agencies, and the Canadian Forces.

Canadian Forces support to the ISU will be provided as Operation PODIUM, executed by maritime, land and air components of Joint Task Force Games (JTFG) under the command and control of Canada Command. The unique capabilities that the Canadian Forces will provide in support of the RCMP include:

• Communications Planning
• Air mobility support
• Maritime surveillance and port security operations
• Mountain terrain surveillance
• Search and Rescue

On the road to readiness, Canada Command synchronized its training and exercise plan with the Government of Canada Training and Exercise Plan for V2010, conducting several exercises in preparation for Vancouver 2010 that focused on assistance to law enforcement and enhanced interagency cooperation. EX BRONZE in 2008 established a common baseline understanding of interagency plans and procedures and their linkages; EX SILVER, in early 2009, involved the participation of Canada Command, Joint Task Force Games, the Maritime Component Commander (Pacific) and the Canadian NORAD Region; and EX GOLD, in late 2009, coordinating various military headquarters and operations centres, confirmed the Government of Canada’s readiness to provide security for V2010.

The Canadian Forces has contributed to the security efforts behind almost every public event in Canada, from leaders summits to Canada’s last Olympics in Calgary. Protecting Canadians at home is Canada’s top defence priority and the Canadian Forces stand ready to assist the RCMP where required. The Canadian Forces expect to have around 4,500 troops working with our partners to ensure this is a safe and enjoyable event.

The over-riding priority for the ISU is to provide an effective and integrated security model, yet not distract attention from the athletes and the Games. Delivering a safe and secure 2010 Olympic Games depends on the effective contribution of many organizations and partners - and more importantly, on their ability to work together. Joint Task Force Games, the Canadian Forces’ tactical joint force headquarters responsible for planning and directing OP PODIUM, will be working closely with their federal, provincial and local security partners, and lending military support when and where needed to ensure the safety and security of the 2010 Vancouver Olympics.

Canada Command is responsible for Canadian Forces routine and contingency operations in Canada and North America, which includes support to law enforcement agencies and support to major public events. For more information about V2010 Olympic Games security, go to: Vancouver 2010 Integrated Security Unit.

Publication Date : 20 January 2010

OP PODIUM - Canadian Forces’ Contribution to Safety and Security at the Vancouver 2010 Winter Games

A Canadian Forces (CF) CH-146 Griffon helicopter from 438 Tactical Helicopter Squadron, St. Hubert, Quebec, flies overhead Whistler Mountain in October 2009 during Exercise SPARTAN RINGS near Whistler, BC. in preparation for Op PODIUM. The CF will provide support to the RCMP-led security operations for the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games.

Photo credit: Sergeant Frank Hudec, Canadian Forces Combat Camera

As the Vancouver 2010 Winter Games (V2010 Games) approach, security and public safety agencies from all levels of government are working to provide an increased level of safety and security on, over and around the designated Olympic and Paralympic sites.

Joint Task Force Games (JTFG) is the unit responsible for planning and directing the involvement of the Canadian Forces (CF) in security operations for the Vancouver 2010 Winter Games. The name of the Canadian Forces contribution to V2010 security is Operation PODIUM.

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP)-led Integrated Security Unit (ISU), based in Richmond, B.C., is responsible for all security operations for the Games and is comprised of members from the RCMP, Vancouver Police Department, West Vancouver Police Department, and the Canadian Forces. Their role in providing an increased level of safety and security involves implementing security measures on land, air and sea to ensure we are prepared to respond to any potential emergency that may occur during the games.

As a key member of the ISU security workforce, the Canadian Forces will be bringing its expertise in winter military operations and its specialized equipment in support of security operations in the Cypress Mountain and Whistler areas, as well as providing maritime patrols in Vancouver Harbour and False Creek, and air mobility support to the RCMP.

JTFG is also providing ceremonial support to the 2010 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games. The Canadian Forces have already assisted in this capacity by providing airlift support in retrieving the Olympic flame from Athens and in partnering with the Vancouver Organizing Committee for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, Nike, and the United Nations Association of Canada to deliver sporting equipment and learning materials to 20 communities throughout the Arctic. The Canadian Forces Ceremonial Contingent for the Olympic and Paralympic Games comprises 62 exceptional CF men and women selected from the CF Recognition Program. They come from across the country and are almost evenly drawn from the Navy, Army and Air Force. Canadian Forces personnel will serve as flag bearers at various ceremonial events at both the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The Olympics have been designated as a major event by the Government of Canada. The delivery of a safe and secure 2010 Winter Olympics will depend on the effective contribution of many organizations and agencies, and more importantly, on their ability to work together. One of the valuable legacies of the V2010 Games Integrated Security Unit will be to reduce any potential conflicts between standard operating plans and procedures for agencies and governments involved in disaster response.

Rear-Admiral Tyrone Pile, Commander Joint Task Force (Pacific) (JTFP), has also been appointed Commander Joint Task Force Games and is responsible to the Commander Canada Command for the conduct of all civil support operations within the defined JTFP and JTFG Areas of Responsibility (AORs). When directed, the Commander will intervene for the defence of North America in conjunction with allied forces.

The Commander JTFP can respond to any crisis, national defence, security, or emergency assistance requirements in the Pacific Ocean approaches to Western Canada, or in British Columbia.

Canada Command was established in February 2006. It reaffirmed that the security of Canadians is the first priority for the Canadian Forces. Canada Command provides the means by which commanders at the national and regional levels have the immediate authority to deploy maritime, land, and air forces in support of domestic operations.

For more information about security operations for the V2010 Games, visit the V2010 ISU website at Vancouver 2010 Integrated Security Unit.

Publication Date : 15 January 2010

Canada Command Officer Carries Olympic Torch though Quebec

Canada Command's Capt Shawn Bardell holds the Olympic Torch high as he carries it proudly through Dollard-des-Ormeaux, Quebec on December 10th , 2009, as the Torch makes its journey towards Ottawa, where it will be lit in a special ceremony on Parliament Hill at 7p.m. on Saturday, December 12, 2009. Captain Bardell serves as the Adjudant of Canada Command Headquarters, where he was posted in mid-2009, following an operational tour in Afghanistan. He was one of 12,000 Canadians chosen to carry the Olympic Torch as it winds its way across Canada in advance of the 2010 Vancouver Olympic Winter Games.

Photo: Corporal Kevin Sauvé

Captain Shawn Bardell briefly exchanged his Canadian Forces uniform for the signature track suit of an Olympic Torch bearer on December 10th , 2009, for the honour of carrying the Olympic Flame in Dollard-des-Ormeaux, Quebec not far from his hometown of Rosemere, Quebec. It was a short, easy 300 metre run for Captain Bardell, a fit triathlete serving with Canada Command in Ottawa, but one that he will remember for the rest of his life.

Captain Bardell was one of approximately 200 members of Canada’s defence team, or members of their families, who will have carried the Olympic Torch by the time it completes its 45,000 kilometre journey across Canada. The longest Olympic Torch relay in history to be contained within the host Country, the route winds past 14 Canadian Forces bases across the country, including CFS Alert in Canada’s high Arctic, the northernmost permanently inhabited site in the world.

Canada’s Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Walter Natynczyk was the first Canadian Forces member to hoist the Olympic Torch, when he ran as a participant of the 2010 Winter Olympic Torch Relay the day the Torch arrived in Victoria, British Columbia. The Torch arrived from Athens, Greece, on October 30, 2009, aboard a Canadian Forces CC150 Polaris, escorted by CF 18 Hornet fighters.

The Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games Torch Relay began on October 30, 2009, in the hands of triathlete Simon Whitfield, and with the help of Olympic Torch runners like Captain Shawn Bardell, will cross the finish line of its journey at the Opening Ceremony signalling the start of the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games on February 12, 2010.

When he changes from track suit back into uniform again, Captain Bardell will be kept busy during the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games as a member of Canada Command, the organization responsible for providing Canadian Forces support to the RCMP Integrated Security Unit in order to contribute to a safe and secure Winter Games.

For more information on the 2010 Olympic Torch Relay go to: Torch Relay Info

Publication Date : 11 December 2009

Canadian Forces Training Now to Support Law Enforcement Agencies During Olympics

Soldiers from the Lord Strathcona’s Horse Regiment (Royal Canadians) rappel from a tower during Exercise Steele Medal, held in Vernon, B.C. from 13 to 29 November, 2009. The exercise included patrolling and conducting surveillance in preparation for the unit’s deployment to Whistler, B.C. during the 2010 Vancouver Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. During the Winter Games, the Canadian Forces will be supporting the RCMP-led Integrated Security Unit (ISU), which is responsible for security at the Winter Games sites.

A recent article in Whistler’s Pique Newsmagazine described what the public can expect to see from Canada’s military in and around Whistler, B.C. during the Winter Games. When military members are on patrol during the Olympics they will be accompanied by law enforcement personnel.

Photo: Warrant Officer David Hitt

Canada Command is responsible for Canadian Forces routine and contingency operations in Canada and North America, which includes support to law enforcement agencies and support to major public events.

For more information about V2010 Olympic Games security, go to:

Publication Date : 04 December 2009

Canadian Forces Provides Air Assets to Support RCMP For 2010 Vancouver Olympics Security

A CH-124 Sea King helicopter from 12 Wing Shearwater, Nova Scotia is loaded inside the cargo bay of a Canadian Forces (CF) CC-177 Globemaster III transport aircraft at 14 Wing Greenwood, for airlift to Victoria, British Columbia on November 25^th , 2009. The Globemaster III can carry a payload of up to 160,000 pounds (+72,000 kilos).

Photo: Sgt. Pete Nicholson

The Canadian Forces will employ equipment and personnel from the Army, Navy and Air Force environments to support the RCMP-led security operation for the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games and the CH-124 Sea King helicopter will be one of the aircraft that will be in the air during the Games.

The Sea King is capable of flying in day or night operations. Its amphibious hull lends it the ability to land on water and it is equipped with subsurface acoustic detection equipment. Domestically, Sea Kings contribute to search and rescue (SAR) operations, disaster relief, counter-narcotic operations, and fisheries and pollution patrols.

The whole-of-government security program for the 2010 Vancouver Winter Games will be the largest domestic security operation to date, in Canadian history. Canada Command is responsible for Canadian Forces routine and contingency operations in Canada and North America, which includes support to law enforcement agencies and support to major public events.

For more information about V2010 Olympic Games security, go to:

Publication Date : 26 November 2009

Exercise Determined Dragon Tested Canadian Forces Participation in Exercise Gold

The Canadian Forces worked in support of the RCMP in a series of security exercises in preparation for securing the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. The final whole-of-government exercise, Exercise GOLD was held from November 2 to 6, 2009. In the photo above, a port security team is practicing force protection procedures in on-water areas designated by the RCMP, during Exercise SPARTAN RINGS. From the left, Leading Seaman (LS) Benjamin Neil, Leading Seaman Colin Lyon and Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) Constable Ryan Scrase on patrol aboard a Canadian Navy Rigid Hull Inflatable Boat (RHIB).

Photo credit: Master Corporal Chris Ward, CFB Esquimalt Imaging Services

The week-long Canadian Forces (CF) Exercise DETERMINED DRAGON, which took place in Ottawa, Vancouver and Whistler, B.C., concluded at the end of last week. Part of the larger Government of Canada Exercise GOLD, the exercise ran from November 2nd through November 6th , 2009, in preparation for securing the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.

Exercise DETERMINED DRAGON, saw the Canadian Forces (CF) in support of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), validating the readiness of the RCMP-led V2010 Integrated Security Unit (ISU) to provide security for the Games. Exercise GOLD was the final exercise in a series of the Government of Canada’s 2010 Olympic Integrated Exercise Program and will serve to confirm that federal, provincial, regional, and municipal organizations are prepared to respond in a coordinated manner to any emergency that may occur during the 2010 Winter Games.

“Exercise DETERMINED DRAGON demonstrated the Canadian Forces’ ability to work effectively as part of a whole-of-government team, while faced with a variety of challenging security scenarios. I am very proud of the manner in which the Canadian Forces participants responded to the challenges that were put in front of them and the way in which they collaborated with their counterparts in other organizations. The ability of Joint Task Force Games Headquarters to mesh effectively into the RCMP-led Integrated Security Unit was proven in previous exercises and reinforced during Exercise DETERMINED DRAGON,” said Vice-Admiral Bruce Donaldson, Commander of Canada Command. “The experience gained through the conduct of these exercises has helped prepare us, so that Canadians and the rest of the world can enjoy a safe and secure environment for the 2010 Winter Games.”

More than 140 federal, provincial, municipal and private sector organizations participated in Exercise GOLD to confirm readiness for the Games and test communications and coordination between the participating organizations.

The whole-of-government security program for the 2010 Vancouver Winter Games will be the largest domestic security operation to date, in Canadian history. Canada Command is responsible for Canadian Forces routine and contingency operations in Canada and North America, which includes support to law enforcement agencies and support to major public events.

For more information about V2010 Olympic Games security, go to:

Publication Date : 09 November 2009

100 Days before the 2010 Winter Olympics Begins, Exercise GOLD Confirms Security Readiness for the Games

As we reach 100 days before the start of the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Games, the Canadian Forces are participating in both providing security for the Games and helping celebrate the Games. Pictured above, Canada’s Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Walter Natynczyk starts off on his leg of the 2010 Winter Olympic Torch Relay in Victoria, British Columbia on October 30th, 2009. Hundreds of people from the Defence Team at Canadian Forces Base Esquimalt, their families and guests, joined Canadians in welcoming the Olympic flame on the first day of its cross-country odyssey. The Olympic Torch will be proudly carried by approximately 200 members of the Defence Team, or members of their families, as it winds its way past 14 Canadian Forces bases across the country

Photo by: Ed Dixon, CFB Esquimalt Imaging Services

This week, as we reach the 100 day mark before the beginning of the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Games, the Canadian Forces is one of more than 140 federal, provincial, municipal and private sector organizations that are participating in a Government of Canada security exercise to confirm the readiness level of Games security. Exercise Gold is taking place in the Vancouver and Whistler B.C. area from November 2nd to the 6th, 2009.

Exercise Gold will validate the readiness of federal, provincial, regional, and municipal organizations to respond in a coordinated manner to any emergency that may occur during the 2010 Winter Games. It is the third of three complementary exercises that began a year ago and increased in scope, complexity and participation. Exercise Bronze was held in November 2008 and examined regional safety and security issues. Exercise Silver was held in February 2009 and practiced safety and security plans, procedures, and interoperability. Exercise Gold is a full-scale operational exercise to confirm readiness for the Games. It will ensure that the V2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games will remain a safe and secure environment for the athletes, visitors and people of Vancouver.

Canada Command is responsible for CF routine and contingency operations in Canada and North America. This includes support to law enforcement agencies and support to major public events. The whole-of-government security program for the 2010 Vancouver Winter Games will be the largest domestic security operation to date, in Canadian history.

For more information about V2010 Olympic Games security and Exercise GOLD go to:

Publication Date : 04 November 2009

Canadian Forces Flight Brings Olympic Flame to Canada

Colonel Anthony Ashfield speaks with Global TV reporter prior to the boarding of the “Olympic Flame Retrieval Flight” in Vancouver B.C. for departure to Greece, on October 28th 2009.

Photo : DND

A Canadian Forces (CF) CC-150 Polaris (Airbus 310) aircraft from Canada’s Air Force left Vancouver, B.C. for Athens, Greece on October 28th 2009 to bring the Olympic Torch to Canada, for the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games.

The aircraft will transport the Olympic Flame and its delegation back from Athens, Greece to Victoria, British Columbia (BC) on October 30, 2009. Colonel Anthony Ashfield, the Deputy Chief of Staff (Support) at Canada Command, is one of two representatives from the Department of National Defence who were selected to travel to Greece with the official Olympic delegation to retrieve the Flame and to transport it to Canada for the Canadian leg of the Olympic Torch Relay.

When the Torch touches down in Victoria B.C. on October 30th, 2009 it will travel 45,000 kilometres across the country before it arrives in Vancouver on February 12th 2010 to officially open the 2010 Winter Games. More than 12,000 torchbearers will carry the Flame to more than 1,000 Canadian communities, including 14 Canadian Forces facilities.

Canada Command is responsible for CF routine and contingency operations in Canada and North America, which includes support to law enforcement agencies and support to major public events. The Canadian Forces will support the RCMP in the whole-of-government security program for the 2010 Vancouver Winter Games.

For information about the V2010 Olympic Games security operation, Olympic Torch Relay security and Department of National Defence and Canadian Forces participation in the Olympic Torch Relay go to:

Government of Canada Supports National Defence and Canadian Forces Participation in the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Torch Relay

National Defence Supports the Olympic Torch Relay

Publication Date : 30 October 2009

Canadian Forces Flight Leaves Canada for Olympic Flame Retrieval

Colonel Anthony Ashfield speaks with Global TV reporter prior to the boarding of the “Olympic Flame Retrieval Flight” in Vancouver B.C. for departure to Greece, on October 28th 2009.

Photo : DND

A Canadian Forces (CF) CC-150 Polaris (Airbus 310) aircraft from Canada’s Air Force left Vancouver, B.C. for Athens, Greece on October 28th 2009 to bring the Olympic Torch to Canada, for the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games.

The aircraft will transport the Olympic Flame and its delegation back from Athens, Greece to Victoria, British Columbia (BC) on October 30, 2009. Colonel Anthony Ashfield, the Deputy Chief of Staff (Support) at Canada Command, is one of two representatives from the Department of National Defence who were selected to travel to Greece with the official Olympic delegation to retrieve the Flame and to transport it to Canada for the Canadian leg of the Olympic Torch Relay.

When the Torch touches down in Victoria B.C. on October 30th, 2009 it will travel 45,000 kilometres across the country before it arrives in Vancouver on February 12th 2010 to officially open the 2010 Winter Games. More than 12,000 torchbearers will carry the Flame to more than 1,000 Canadian communities, including 14 Canadian Forces facilities.

Canada Command is responsible for CF routine and contingency operations in Canada and North America, which includes support to law enforcement agencies and support to major public events. The Canadian Forces will support the RCMP in the whole-of-government security program for the 2010 Vancouver Winter Games.

For information about the V2010 Olympic Games security operation, Olympic Torch Relay security and Department of National Defence and Canadian Forces participation in the Olympic Torch Relay go to:

Government of Canada Supports National Defence and Canadian Forces Participation in the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Torch Relay

National Defence Supports the Olympic Torch Relay

Publication Date : 29 October 2009

Canadian Forces Aircraft Brings the Olympic Torch to Canada

The Canadian Forces CC-150 Polaris (Airbus 310) aircraft that will bring the Olympic Torch to Canada from Greece wears a special decal to commemorate the event. The official logo, supplied by Canadian Heritage, is called the Olympic Torch Relay Composite Logo.

Photo: Roger H. Coe, CFB Trenton

When the Olympic Torch travels from Greece to Canada to complete the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Torch Relay, it will be in a Canadian Forces aircraft. A CC-150 Polaris airbus from Canada’s Air Force left Vancouver B.C. for Athens, Greece on October 28th 2009 to bring the Olympic Flame to Canada, for the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games.

The Canadian leg of the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Torch Relay will begin in Victoria B.C, when the Torch touches down in Canada on October 30th, 2009. The Torch will travel 45,000 kilometres across the country before it arrives in Vancouver on February 12th 2010 to officially open the 2010 Winter Games. The Vancouver 2010 Olympic Torch Relay will be the longest domestic relay in Olympic history.

Canada Command is responsible for CF routine and contingency operations in Canada and North America, which includes support to law enforcement agencies and support to major public events. The whole-of-government security program for the 2010 Vancouver Winter Games will be the largest domestic security operation to date, in Canadian history.

For information about the V2010 Olympic Games security operation and the Olympic Torch Relay go to:

Publication Date : 28 October 2009

Exercise Spartan Rings Concludes-We’re Now Ready for Gold

A Canadian Forces CH-146 Griffon helicopter delivers a Royal Canadian Mounted Police Emergency Response Team to a simulated incident scene at the Athletes Village in downtown Vancouver during Exercise PEGASUS GUARDIAN 3 and SPARTAN RINGS.

Photo by Master Corporal Andrew Collins, 14 Wing Imaging

The week-long security exercises SPARTAN RINGS and PEGASUS GUARDIAN 3 in preparation for securing the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games which took place in the Vancouver and Whistler area, concluded on October 23, 2009.

The full-scale Canadian Forces (CF) and police exercises focused on validating the readiness of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police-led V2010 Integrated Security Unit (ISU), for Games security.

“Exercise Spartan Rings tested and confirmed the communications, planning and interoperability of Joint Task Force Games Headquarters with various law enforcement agencies and assigned components of the Canadian Forces,” said Exercise Director, Brigadier-General Greg Matte, the Chief of Staff of Canada Command. “The next step will be our participation in the final Government of Canada-led Exercise Gold.”

Exercise GOLD will be held from November 2 to 6, 2009.

Canada Command is responsible for CF routine and contingency operations in Canada and North America, which includes support to law enforcement agencies and support to major public events. The whole-of-government security program for the 2010 Vancouver Winter Games will be the largest domestic security operation to date, in Canadian history.

For more information about V2010 Olympic Games security go to:

The Lookout Newspaper, CFB Esquimalt

Publication Date : 27 October 2009

Exercise Spartan Rings Makes Way for Gold

Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

Her Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) REGINA and United States Coast Guard Cutter MELLON, along with several Maritime Coastal Defence Vessels and Orca Class training vessels are berthed alongside Canada Place in Vancouver in preparation for Exercise SPARTAN RINGS.

Photo by : Sergeant Paz Quillé, Canadian Forces Combat Camera

In preparation for securing the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, Exercises SPARTAN RINGS and PEGASUS GUARDIAN 3 are taking place in the Vancouver and Whistler area from October 19 to 23, 2009. These full-scale Canadian Forces (CF) and police exercises are focused on validating the readiness of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police-led V2010 Integrated Security Unit (ISU), for Games security. The exercises will test communications, planning and interoperability among various law enforcement agencies and the Canadian Forces.

At the conclusion of SPARTAN RINGS and PEGASUS GUARDIAN 3, the V2010 ISU and its security partners will prepare for the final Government of Canada-led confirmation exercise. Exercise GOLD will be held from November 2 to 6, 2009.

Canada Command is responsible for CF routine and contingency operations in Canada and North America, which includes support to law enforcement agencies and support to major public events. The whole-of-government security program for the 2010 Vancouver Winter Games will be the largest domestic security operation to date, in Canadian history.

For more information about V2010 Olympic Games security and Exercise Spartan Rings go to:

The Lookout Newspaper, CFB Esquimalt

Publication Date : 23 October 2009

Exercise Spartan Rings Continues this Week

Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

A CH-124 Sea King helicopter from 443 Squadron based out of Canadian Forces Base Esquimalt takes off from HMCS DISCOVERY, a military facility in downtown Vancouver, during Exercise Spartan Rings.

Photo by : Sergeant Paz Quillé, Canadian Forces Combat Camera

In preparation for securing the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, Exercises SPARTAN RINGS and PEGASUS GUARDIAN 3 are taking place in the Vancouver and Whistler area from October 19 to 23, 2009. These full-scale Canadian Forces (CF) and police exercises are focused on validating the readiness of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police-led V2010 Integrated Security Unit (ISU), for Games security. The exercises will test communications, planning and interoperability among various law enforcement agencies and the Canadian Forces.

At the conclusion of SPARTAN RINGS and PEGASUS GUARDIAN 3, the V2010 ISU and its security partners will prepare for the final Government of Canada-led confirmation exercise. Exercise GOLD will be held from November 2 to 6, 2009.

Canada Command is responsible for CF routine and contingency operations in Canada and North America, which includes support to law enforcement agencies and support to major public events. The whole-of-government security program for the 2010 Vancouver Winter Games will be the largest domestic security operation to date, in Canadian history.

For more information about V2010 Olympic Games security and Exercise Spartan Rings go to:

The Lookout Newspaper, CFB Esquimalt

Publication Date : 22 October 2009

Exercise Spartan Rings Begins Today

Rear-Admiral Tyrone Pile, Commander of Joint Task Force Games, addresses the media in advance of Exercise Spartan Rings.

Exercise Spartan Rings, designed to validate the preparedness of the Canadian Forces to support the RCMP in providing security for the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Games, commenced today in Vancouver. Combined with the RCMP’s Exercise Pegasus Guardian 3, the exercise will run through Friday, October 23.

“As part of the interagency security team, the Canadian Forces will provide unique military capabilities that are completely integrated into the overall security framework,” said Rear-Admiral Tyrone Pile, Commander of Joint Task Force Games. “Whether it’s maritime surveillance, alpine patrols, or air mobility support to the RCMP, the Canadian Forces are ready to provide those unique capabilities that will contribute to safe and secure Games.”

Rear-Admiral Pile’s complete statement can be found here. (Statement - Rear-Admiral Tyrone Pile)

Canadian Forces support to the RCMP-led Integrated Security Unit will be provided though the Canadian Forces’ Operation Podium, executed by maritime, land and air components of Joint Task Force Games, under the command and control of Canada Command.

Publication Date : 19 October 2009

2010 Vancouver Olympics Security: CF Exercise Spartan Rings

From October 19 to 23, 2009 Canadian Forces (CF) members linked to Joint Task Force Games (JTFG) and the V2010 Integrated Security Unit (V2010 ISU) will participate in Exercise Spartan Rings, a series of exercises leading up to the 2010 Vancouver Olympics, in support of the RCMP, which is the lead security agency for the Games. The RCMP component of the exercises is named: Exercise Pegasus Guardian 3.

The intent of the joint exercises, conducted with provincial, regional and local law enforcement agencies in British Columbia, is to test operational plans and ensure that the federal-provincial-regional-local security team is prepared to respond in a coordinated manner to any potential emergency that may occur during the 2010 Winter Games. The CF will provide unique military capabilities that are integrated into the overall security framework to contribute to safety and security. Pegasus Guardian 3/ Spartan Rings will test communications, planning and agency interoperability, as part of ongoing security training for the Games.

Canada Command is responsible for CF routine and contingency operations in Canada and North America, which includes support to law enforcement agencies and support to major public events. The whole-of-government security program for the 2010 Vancouver Winter Games will be the largest domestic security operation to date, in Canadian history. (More)

Publication Date : 14 October 2009

Exercise Laurel Wreath 0907 - Preparing for the 2010 Vancouver Olympics.

Members of the RCMP board a Canadian Forces CH-146 Griffon Helicopter, developing an inter-department operability as part of Exercise SILVER, leading up to the 2010 Vancouver Olympics. The Exercise, which was held in the surrounding Vancouver area in February 2009, was part of the Government of Canada’s 2010 Olympic Integrated Exercise Program, which has been ongoing since 2008.

Photo By: Corporal David Cribb, CF Combat Camera

More than 200 Canadian Forces (CF) members participated in a Joint Task Force Games headquarters (JTFG HQ) exercise, Laurel Wreath 0907 from 21-26 September, 2009. Laurel Wreath was part of the JTFG HQ ongoing security training program leading up to the Vancouver 2010 Winter Games. (More)

The main objective of Exercise Laurel Wreath was to integrate augmentee personnel into JTFG HQ, and provide them with the situational awareness, skills and knowledge necessary to successfully carry out their roles.

During Laurel Wreath, participants responded to “what if” scenarios designed to practice and confirm processes, procedures, and linkages with other organizations.

Exercise Laurel Wreath 0907 ensured that JTFG HQ was ready for CF-wide security exercises such as Exercise Spartan Rings scheduled 19 to 23 October 2009 and for Government wide security exercises such as Exercise Gold scheduled 1 to 7 November 2009. Ultimately, the intent of the training program is ensuring that federal-provincial-regional-local security team is prepared to respond in a coordinated manner to any potential emergency that may occur during the 2010 Winter Games.

Canada Command is responsible for Canadian Forces (CF) routine and contingency operations in Canada and North America, which includes support to law enforcement agencies and support to major public events. The whole-of-government security program for the 2010 Vancouver Winter Games will be the largest domestic security operation in Canadian history. (More)

Publication Date : 06 October 2009