THE QUEEN’S OWN CAMERON HIGHLANDERS OF CANADA
THE CAMERON ASSOCIATION IN CANADA
THE QUEEN’S OWN CAMERON HIGHLANDERS OF CANADA MINTO ARMOURY, 969 ST. MATTHEWS AVE WPG, MB R3G 0J7
STILL WINNIPEG’S ONLY HIGHLAND REGIMENT !
2019/2020 ASSOCIATION OFFICERS
| PRESIDENT | Steve MacMillan | 351 Ainslie St Wpg, MB R3J 2Z7 | [email protected] | 204-831-0542 |
| VICE-PRES | Fred Westphal | [email protected] m | 204-296-7656 | |
| SECRETARY | Hugh O’Donnell | 713 Cambridge St Wpg, MB R3M 3G2 | [email protected] | 204-285-7222 |
| TREASURER | Dave Gibson | 104 William Gibson Bay Wpg, MB R2C 5L7 | [email protected] | 204-222-9509 |
2019/20 ASSOCIATION EXECUTIVE BOARD
| Past Pres | Taffy Gray | Headingly, MB R4J 1B1 | [email protected] | 204-889-5655 |
| Special Projects and Recruiting Director | Don Steenson | TBC | TBC | TBC |
| Sick, Visiting, and Last Post Director | Len Johnson | 1094 Bay Rd St. Andrews, MB
R1A 3L1 |
204-757-2023 | |
| Foundation Trustees | Blair Will (2019-2021) | Marc Gautron (2018-2020) |
* LAST POST *
B130855 Private Ynte Peter Obbema, 5 Oct 1944 Bergen op Zoom Canadian War Cemetery, NL Son of Mr. and Mrs. Mourits Obbema,
of Midlum, Harlingen, Friesland, Holland.
ROBERT (BOB) ALLEN March 25, 1924 – June 14, 2020
https://passages.winnipegfreepress.com/passage-details/id-273748/ALLEN_ROBERT
Bob was the youngest child born to George Arthur and Jessie Dow Allen in Russell, Manitoba. Uncle Bob was predeceased by elder brother Sidney A. Allen in the Second World War (July 21, 1944) in France; by both his parents; by his wife Mildred (December 2006); by his elder sister Dorothy Coates (August 2003) and brother-in-law Howard Coates (August 2012).
Bob joined the Army at 18, served overseas during the Second World War with The Queen’s Own Cameron Highlanders. After the war, and while living in Winnipeg, he served with the Winnipeg Police Force. Upon moving to Vancouver, with wife Mildred, he then worked for and retired from Kelly Douglas Wholesale. Upon the death of his wife, he returned to his home
town of Russell, where he resided until his own death.
Uncle Bob was an avid golfer, he enjoyed bowling, playing cards and attending the local Legion wherever he was living and participating in all their activities.
From November 1, 2019 to present, Uncle Bob was residing at the Russell Personal Care Home. We would like to thank and acknowledge “ALL” the staff of this personal care home for their wonderful care and compassion shown towards Uncle Bob while he was with you.
As per his wishes, “NO SERVICE”, cremation has taken place.
His last wishes are whomever remembers him, go to your nearest Legion, have a beer in remembrance of him and “Buy a Poppy”.
Full obit published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jun 27, 2020
WILLIAM ALFRED BARKER
https://passages.winnipegfreepress.com/passage-details/id-275679/BARKER_WILLIAM
On March 30, 2020, during these unprecedented times, we lost an amazing man who loved his family, missed his wife and was a proud Veteran who had served his country.
“Bill” Barker was born May 5, 1923 in Winnipeg and lived his entire life in Fort Garry. He had many connections with his community, neighbours and family. Married for 71 years to his love, Viola, they had four children who are left to mourn his loss, Warren (Val), Charlene (Larry), Karen and Neil (Liz).
Bill was predeceased by his wife Vi; parents, William and Elizabeth; brothers, Jack, Stan and sisters, Eva and Cec.
Dad served our country in the Second World War in the Canadian army with the Queen’s Own Cameron Highlanders. He was assigned as a sniper, stationed in various European countries.
Having been injured in the war, he returned to Winnipeg and later joined the Winnipeg Postal Service where he worked for 32 years, retiring as a Postal Supervisor.
Dad was dedicated to sports and coaching kids. He coached hockey at Victoria Community Club, managed the Fort Garry Twins and Monarch teams and was one of the founding members and coaches of Little League baseball on the west side of Fort Garry. For all of this work, a street was named in his honour. “Barks Way” can be found on the street entering Fort Garry Community Club.
The last few years were difficult for Dad and Mom as they required long-term care. Fortunately, they both became residents of Deer Lodge Tower. Dad was on Tower Four where he received excellent care and compassion from the nurses and staff and we thank them very much for all they do.
We especially want to thank Merna Bowes who assisted Dad in his final year and became a friend and liaison to the family for dad’s care. She is an angel to those she cares for!
In these crazy times, interment will be private to immediate family. We just want Dad to be back with Mom where he belongs…
Condolences may be sent to: www.thomsoninthepark.com
Full obit published in Winnipeg Free Press on Sep 26, 2020
WILLIAM EVERETT (BILL) GRAY
https://passages.winnipegfreepress.com/passage-details/id-274642/Gray_William
Bill Gray passed peacefully on Saturday, August 1, 2020. He was 94 years old and a resident of Winnipeg’s Deer Lodge Centre, where he received exemplary care.
Bill was born in Elfros, Saskatchewan on February 6, 1926. He was predeceased by his father Jack, and mother Ethel, his sister Dorothy, who passed in her youth, as well as his brother Jack, who died in the Second World War. He is survived by his older sister Evelyn Metke of Fort Frances, Ontario.
Bill was predeceased by his wife of 54 years, Pauline, in 2007 and his son-in-law Alan Einarson, in 2012. He is survived by his immediate family: son John (partner Patricia); son Mark (wife Anne; and daughter Meg (granddaughter Ellie).
Bill graduated from high school in Weyburn, Saskatchewan in 1944 and joined the Royal Canadian Navy. He was just beginning his ocean service when the war ended and he returned home. He started working at CIBC, eventually becoming a Branch Manager. Bill and Pauline met in Fort Frances. They married in 1952 in Winnipeg, where they lived for all but a few of their remaining years, raising their family, working, and taking part in the community.
Working at CIBC, Bill learned that the people with largest accounts were business people. Starting in 1965 with a laundromat, Bill, with Pauline at his side, became a serial entrepreneur. They bought the Dairy Queen on Henderson Highway in 1967 with five more to follow at various times after Bill left the bank in 1971. He also worked for Dairy Queen International for several years, travelling Western Canada. Other investments made along the way included a mobile vending business, gas station, insurance company and golf courses. The fast food business beckoned again with the circuitous acquisition of two Boyd’s Burger Master stores in Great Falls, Montana. 1986 brought the acquisition of Gourmet Coffee Specialists Ltd. Again, considerable time and effort was expended and Bill operated the company for 20 years before selling it to management. Bill mentored many younger entrepreneurs over the years and assisted them with advice and capital to help them succeed.
Bill was involved in many community activities as a member of several organizations: Masons, Optimists and the St. Andrew’s Society. Bill was a reservist with the Queen’s Own Cameron Highlanders from which he retired as a Major. He also supported the Children’s Hospital Foundation of Manitoba through the Dairy Queens and telethons and was one of the initial organizers of the annual Dr. Goodbear Golf Tournament.
Bill has been cremated and his ashes are in a cardboard box beside Pauline’s while they figure out where to go next. There will be a private memorial at this time and, when larger gatherings are permitted, there will be a celebration of his life.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Children’s Hospital Foundation of Manitoba (CE 501-840 Sherbrook Street, Winnipeg, Manitoba, MB R3Z 1S1).
Full obit published in Winnipeg Free Press on Aug 08, 2020
MAURICE PAUL
https://passages.winnipegfreepress.com/passage-details/id-273481/PAUL_MAURICEhttps:// voyagefuneralhomes.com/maurice-paul/
It is with heartfelt sadness that we announce the passing of Maurice Paul on Tuesday, June 2, 2020, at St. Boniface Hospital, Palliative Care unit, after a prolonged battle with COPD.
Dad was born in St. Boniface, the only child of Lillianne and Antoine Paul. He had the privilege of being raised by his mother, his grandparents, Arthur and Eugenie Poisson, and his aunts in St. Adolphe, MB, on the family farm.
Maurice is survived by his children, Gerry (David Powell) of Dryden, Ontario, Brian (Cathy) of Winnipeg and Laurie (Brenda). He was predeceased by his beloved Sheila in 2015; and his parents; grandparents; beloved aunts, Jeannine Zluchowski and Aline Logan; and cousins, Jack Logan of Montreal and Simone Senez of Manitoba.
As a young man, he was a reservist with the Queen’s Own Cameron Highlanders, and he had fond memories of his regiment. He remained a dedicated follower of the New Democratic Party for his entire life. Dad enjoyed most of his retirement, from Shell Oil Refinery, building a cottage in Redditt, Ontario.
Dad also was an active volunteer at Children’s Hospital in Winnipeg, and also at Ecole Riverview, assisting students with French for many years.
The family would like to acknowledge the wonderful care that Dad received from the staff of St. Boniface Hospital, during his final days.
A private family funeral will take place in the future, with interment at the Redditt Cemetery.
Full obit published in the Winnipeg Free Press on Jun 13, 2020
BRENDA DAWN SIPLEY
https://passages.winnipegfreepress.com/passage-details/id-257353/SIPLEY_BRENDA
It is with great sadness we announce the passing of our daughter, Brenda, at her home in Carlsbad, California, on June 24, 2018, at the age of 58. Brenda was born in Winnipeg and received her schooling at Weston and Charleswood schools.
According to Sgt (Ret’d) Mike Nickerson Brenda went on her officer cadet course in the early 70’s and was RTU’ed due to ankle injury. She was on a drivers course in 1977 or 78 in Dundurn.
Her university education was completed at the University of Manitoba with a Bachelor of Science – Undergraduate degree in Computer Science in 1985 and an MBA in 1990. This led her into Information Systems Management, latterly Deloitte & Touche Solutions Group in Project
Management. In 1994 she and her former husband relocated to California. Not having her green card, Brenda enrolled in the University of Irvine and received her Personal Trainer Certificate. She competed in the Los Angeles County Triathlon – Series winner, California State Cycling Time Trial Championship and, in 2000, competed at the World Masters Cycling Championship in Austria.
In September, 2001, Brenda joined the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department. In October, 2005, Brenda was assigned to the Encinitas station where she worked patrol. Later she realized her ultimate calling as a STAR team member with the traffic division.
A memorial service was held July 6 in Encinitas with a reception following. Following the reception there was an observance at Moonlight Beach as Brenda’s ashes were scattered at sea, site of the annual Bro-Am surfing competition that Brenda coordinated each year. Brenda is survived by her parents, Mel and Joan Sipley.
Those who wish may make a donation to a charity of their choice, give someone a hug, pay it forward, buy someone a coffee. Life Is So Precious.
Full obit originally published in the Winnipeg Free Press on Aug 04, 2018
ART SUTTON 1937 – 2020
https://passages.winnipegfreepress.com/passage-details/id-275035/SUTTON_ART
It is with great sorrow that the family announces the death of Art Sutton following a difficult illness. Left to mourn his passing are his loving wife Judy, his beloved children, Sharon (Danny), Mike, Tanya (Dave), Andrew (Morgan), and his sister Sharon Swan (Carl). His family was his greatest joy.
In 1937 Art was born to Ernest and Gwen Sutton in Campbellford, Ontario. As Ernie was transferred in his job with Ontario Hydro the family moved to Peterborough, then St. Thomas and finally settled in Belleville. For his education Art came to Winnipeg to study at St. John’s College and then the U of M Faculty of Education.
He began teaching in Ashern, Manitoba and went on to enjoy a long and successful career as teacher and principal in Seven Oaks School Division. Always game for a challenge, he introduced the first Ukrainian bilingual program in Seven Oaks, charted the course for programs in French immersion, and initiated Hebrew bilingual education. Children, teachers and parents alike were grateful for his kind and steady guidance.
Art’s parallel career was with the Canadian Army Reserve where he rose to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel and CO of the Queen’s Own Cameron Highlanders. As Cameron CO he had the opportunity to travel with fellow officers to Scotland and with Judy to England to present a petition to Prince Phillip. Following his retirement from the Reserves in 1984, Art maintained connections with his military friends, working with the Cameron Highlanders Advisory Board
and Army Cadet League of Canada. He was awarded the Queen’s Silver Jubilee Medal in 1977 and the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee medal in 2012.
Art joined the board of the Commissionaires of Canada and then became a full Colonel when he was appointed CEO of the Commissionaires of Canada in Winnipeg in 2004, remaining in this position until 2008. This third career offered opportunities to travel to almost every Canadian province.
Ever ready to volunteer his services, Art chaired the boards at his church and at Middlechurch Personal Care Home, and served on several committees in his home community.
Art was gentle, polite and brave. He listened, spoke kindly and cared about others, living his life with grace and drive.
The family is grateful for the expertise and kindness shown to Art at Cancer Care and at St. Boniface Hospital. If friends so desire, donations may be made in Art’s memory to either of these institutions. An outdoor family celebration of Art’s life is planned.
Full obit published in Winnipeg Free Press on Aug 29, 2020
WIDOW’S / WIDOWER’S SUPPLEMENT: There is income supplement for widows / widowers. They will mail out a form for the survivor to complete. You will need proof of marriage and the soldier’s regimental number etc. and the spouse’s income tax forms. If the financial situation is going badly the survivor should contact Veterans Affairs.
https://www.veterans.gc.ca/eng/family-caregiver/death-and-bereavement/survivors-pension
Links current to 29 Oct 2020
FUNERAL AND BURIAL ASSISTANCE: The Veterans Affairs Canada Funeral and Burial Program ensures that eligible Veterans receive dignified funeral and burial services. The Last Post Fund (LPF), a non-profit organization, delivers the program on behalf of Veterans Affairs Canada. To be eligible for the program, Veterans must meet both military and financial criteria.
http://www.lastpostfund.ca/EN/Home.php
Link current to 29 Oct 2020
* SICK & VISITING *
Mavis Coutts (Gord’s widow) – Good days, bad days. If you’re interested in visiting her please get in touch with her daughter Brenda first. Hugh can put you in touch if you don’t have her contact info.
Taffy Gray (Cold War PPCLI & Camerons) – Taff and Betty are doing OK these days. Taff has been downsizing his amazing library, so anyone interested in Scottish history please contact
Hugh. Taff and Betty are still in Headingly, but they’ve got a new hide on the north side of the river now. Taff is also online, so have alook for him and say hi that way too !
PTSD Help Line: The toll-free number 1-855-373-8387 will be manned by veterans who will be available on a 24-hour basis. The callers will not be required to identify themselves. See also the Cameron “Links” section of the web page for other useful links:
http://thequeensowncameronhighlandersofcanada.net/links.html
Link current to 29 Oct 2020.
* PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE *
Hello ! We have been very busy since Hugh’s last edition. The monument is coming along nicely. Go by Vimy Ridge Memorial Park and see for yourself. Or maybe just keep staring at that picture.
We’re now down to the landscaping and some final touches which pretty much have to wait for Spring 2021. We are looking at Sept or early Oct 2021 to do the formal dedication, but Covid may not be done by then so be sure to keep up on things – you won’t want to be anywhere else !
My best regards,
Steve MacMillan
* VICE-PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE *
Our VP is still very busy boy but sends his regards, and to watch for scammers pretending to be Association Exec. Please be aware and use your head ! Keep up the good work Fred !
* RECONNECT WITH FORMER CAMERONS *
This is an important thing to do for the health of the Association. There are still lots of former Camerons out there that we don’t know about for various reasons. Just because you or they weren’t Second World War or Korea veterans doesn’t make anyone less important to the Cameron Association. Please help us locate them and bring them back into the fold.
Also, there are still families of First and Second War Camerons asking for more information about their kin. If anyone can help out please send the Oatmeal Rag editor what you have or ask to be put in touch directly and he’ll do so.
Thanks very much to those fine souls who have donated some of their hard earned dollars to keep hard copies of this newsletter going out to the guys and the widows of our guys without computers. A few were Second War men but some are younger former Camerons who live in areas with poor internet service or dial up, or are just plain happy to be off of the grid.
Re: 2nd World War information request Dear Hugh,
It has been seven years now that I sent you a mail about the memoires of my mother. The reason for me to contact you again has everything to do with the fact that we sold our farm and will move to another place. While cleaning up I found the book with the memoires of my mother specialised the period during the war and liberation of Holland.
I would like to send you a copy but I need an address.
Please send me the address and someone in the Dutch community will be able to translate how my family were liberated from the Germans. I found the address of the association on the internet but I am not sure if you want me to send it to that address.
Yours sincere, Ben Tops
Editor’s note: Ben’s book did indeed reach me, and I have it out to a Dutch friend to translate for me. My pal at church, Kass, was with the Free Dutch Princess Irene’s Brigade during the
SWW.
To see some more of how well at least some of the Dutch people remember our soldiers check out some of the Faces to Graves and Facebook Holten, Mook, and Groesbeek pages.
Subject: Requesting information Tues, Sep 29, 2020
My name is Herb Thompson and am a retired CPO2 from the RCN in Halifax. My father in law recently passed away and while going through his documentation and materials I found the medals of his uncle. He was a member of the Cameron’s and was one of the members who died at Dieppe. His name was Pte Walter Duncan. If the information I have is correct he also served with the Fort Garry Horse during WW1. I currently have found his medals, picture of him in uniform, pictures of the Queens Own Cameron Highlanders trooping the Colours 1940 (reads the caption of the 6 small pictures). I need to know if your museum is interested in having any or all the material I can find as I am in the early stages of the home search. The family would like to see them find a home were they would be appreciated.
Editor’s note: Following a much longer string of emails Herb has found a good home for Pte. Walter Dunkin’s effects with our museum. Turns out Walter’s last name was spelled differently by this branch of the family out in Ingles & Grandview area of MB where Walter was from.
Subject: WO II Abram Arbour 12 Nov 2020
Hello,
My name is Matthew Besler and I am writing to connect with you regarding my Great Uncle Abram Arbour. I visited the Bretteville-sir-Laise Canadian cemetery in Normandy a few years ago and took a picture of his headstone, attached.
I never knew him, of course, but I am aware of his and the Cameron’s efforts to keep us strong and free during the conflict of World War 2. We as a family are extremely proud of him and we remember him often, particularly this time of year.
I have a lot of information on the Cameron’s activity post the D-Day landings up until Abram was killed at Falaise in August of 1944. What I am missing is any information or War Diary entries regarding the Cameron’s activities during the Dieppe raid. I am wondering if you would have access to any of that information?
As you can well imagine, I am trying to put together as complete a picture as I can of the man I never knew. I would appreciate anything you can do. At any rate, I hope the attached picture will fit into your archives.
Best,
Matt Besler
Editor’s note: Matt is waiting on Grant Tyler being able to access the Museum to get those copies to him. For those of you who missed the write up on Sgt-Maj. Arbour, it can be found in Oatmeal Rag #17 about p. 11.
Subject: Sgt. Gordon Moyer ? 10/13/2020
Hello, I’m trying to figure out who Sgt. Gordon Moyer was. He wrote a poem “The Fighting Camerons” but I don’t see it in the list of poems on the Camerons website.
I believe my grandfather Peter Paquette belonged to the Cameron Highlanders of Canada.
It would be cool if there was a database of all of the soldiers so people could look up their relatives, but maybe that would be a lot of work.
Regards, Cameron Blair
Editor’s note: Cameron did find out a great deal more about his grandfather, and his
grandfather did serve with us during the SWW. The draft Instagram item he did up for him for Remembrance Day this year.
As for Sgt. Moyer, can anyone help Mr. Blair out ?
Subject: Information of Queens Own Cameron Highlanders of Canada lady’s compact 10/06/2020
Hello
I am attaching photos of a lady’s compact I have and am wondering if you can provide any information on it, such as when and who it would have been given to? Anything would be appreciated as I am having trouble finding any information on it.
Thanking you in advance Kathy Stawn
On October 6, 2014 6:18:09 PM CDT, Fred Stenhouse <[email protected]> wrote: Hello;
My father served in WW2 in the Queens own Cameron Highlanders of Winnipeg and served in many Battles one of which was Dieppe. I am hoping to find more information about the Battalion. He also served in Holland his name was William Stenhouse. I would like to find his service record and his sign-up documents, and other information about the Battalion. I know he saved the life of his captain.
Thank you Fred Stenhouse
Editor’s note: The guys in the Museum found this: H20854 Pte. Stenhouse William James / QOCH of Canada 02/08/41 / Wounded 2/10/1945.
Can anyone else be of assistance ?
Subject: Uniform and photos 09/25/2020
Hello
My grandfather, Daniel Falconer Mackintosh, served with the Canadian Cameron Highlanders in WW1. My uncle recently passed away, and left me my grandfather’s military uniform. His wishes were that it be sent to your museum. The uniform was always stored safely, and is in excellent condition. I have several photos of my grandfather in his uniform.
Would you be interested in the uniform? I feel it would be better placed with your museum, rather than in a box, for eternity. I can send you photos of the uniform, if you wish. If you
would like it, please send me shipping protocol. I am in California. Thank you,
Jan Mackintosh 650-303-1392
Editor’s note: Jan is sending us the uniform but it may be a bit before it gets here. Thanks again Jan ! For the curious, her grandfather was born in Inverness, Scotland and had previous service with the Imperial RAMC before he joined the 79th Cameron Highlanders with the original service number 4044.
He was sent with the the 79th Cameron’s 3rd draft to France 10/08/1915 to the 43rd Bn CEF where he was assigned service number 153622. He was in France 20/02/16 to 26/10/16 and 09/11/17 to 13/12/18. He was wounded twice, 5-10-16 and 06-03-18. He returned to Canada 13/08/19 and was Struck off Strength 27/08/19. Quite a pedigree.
* WHERE ARE THEY NOW ? *
DUNCAN M. ANDERSON (Cold War) – Duncan and former Sgt-Maj RON WILLIAMS continue to try to keep the ANAF functioning in MB. The current Covid challenge has them advising all to stay safe and follow the rules so that there will be members left when this passes us by. They look forward to having us by Unit #303 Rockwood (a block north of Grant Park on Wilton) once the All Clear has been sounded.
GORD FONSTAD – (Cold War Camerons) – Doing well at last word. Gord’s two major projects The first was to put together the full and detailed story of the window in Edmonton’s
Highland Park United Church. The second project was to mark on Google Maps the places where the Camerons fought in the Second War. These labours of love have consumed hours of his time and you’ll see the results in an Oatmeal Rag soon !
CHARLES “NIPPER” GUEST (SWW) – Congratulations on a well deserved Order of Canada Nipper !!!
https://www.airdrietoday.com/rocky-view-news/long-time-bearspaw-resident-philanthropist-and-entrepreuner- named-to-order-of-canada-3143686
Some of you may have ready his book, and if you haven’t I’ll loan it to you, but it’s not expensive and $5 of each sale goes to a deserving charity as the article says.
Editor’s note: And a very big thanks to former Cameron MCpl, later Army Reserve Sergeant Major, Chief Warrant Officer Kent Griffiths for passing this our way too.
RANDY KOTCHON (COLD WAR) – Randy has now retired from both the WPS and being an EA. He let us know that his next career move is going to be a shot at writing.
GAELEUNG LAU (COLD WAR) – Has dropped us a line in true RCN style that he has had the call to let him know that he has made the cut, and and will be on the naval succession board. He will be headed to Toronto next year for staff college ! On the Home Front his family are
doing well too. Now how typical a Prairie Boy story is that, leaning the plow and the mud for the Navy ?
ANDREW MCKECHNIE (COLD WAR) – Doing well and having fun down in Mexico. Andy keeps in touch regularly. Jealous yet ?
ROY MACGILLIVRAY (Edmonton Fusiliers & RCA 1944-45, RCR SAS PL 1948,
Korean War RCR, Cameron RSS 1970’s) – Roy is bunkered up against Covid right now. So far, so good.
KEN SMITH (SWW) – Tim Flook emailed on 12 Dec to let us know that Ken is doing well but a bit tired of being in solitary. Seems that a fellow resident went out on a pass and came back with Covid and you can guess the story from there. At least he’s not on bread and water ! He’s still as pleased as punch with the birthday parade, and would be quite happy to take a phone call from another Cameron, so give him a shout !!!
Editor’s note: If you don’t know Ken’s number Hugh O’Donnell will help you out.
EMAN TURNER (COLD WAR) – Eman and his family are out in Maple Ridge BC. Eman has been doing a great job of staying in touch, and is looking forward to coming out to Wpg for the formal unveiling of our monument. He’s even going to round up whoever he can beg, borrow, or drag out to it. Thanks Eman !
Btw, check out the links below:
https://www.facebook.com/truestimbc/
Editor’s Note: I can recommend this product in good faith at this time. My wife has been using the Tens machine to help with various aches and pains and it does bring some relief. It’s not free of course, but maybe he’d cut a bit of a deal for a fellow Cameron ?
ERIC TYNDALL (COLD WAR) – Is doing fine, and so is his family. Good to hear from you Eric !
* 2020-21 DUES ($20) NOW PAYABLE *
Well COVID sure put a hole in the annual Cameron Reunion Renewal Plan for most of us. As of any time now you can connect with Association Treasurer David Gibson (per the cover page of the Oatmeal Rag) who will take your payment.
If you are not sure of your status please contact Dave and he’ll either be happy to take your
$20.00 payment or be most unhappy that he doesn’t get to take any money from you – yet – this year.
You can also use interact e-Transfer to pay your dues to our Treasurer, Dave Gibson. It works rather like Pay Pal for those of you familiar with that service. Here’s link to one of the the web
page options:
http://interac.ca/en/interac-e-transfer-consumer.html
* CAMERON ASSOCIATION REPORT *
*** Reminder you too can become a LIFE MEMBER of The Association ***
Short version, any member in good standing of at least 65 years of age will be allowed to buy a Life Membership in the Cameron Association in Canada for $250 Cdn as of our last AGM. This money is restricted to being spent on an “as earned” basis, which is to say The Association cannot have a grand party one year and be broke the next. We can only add the $20 per year of the $250 to each succeeding year’s budget.
* DELAYED *
THE CAMERON FALLEN COMRADES MEMORIAL DEDICATION CEREMONY
We’re still going to get this done – BUT NOT JUST YET ! As many of you already have heard, we’ve had to postpone this event again in light of the fact that the majority of the people involved in making this monument a reality are the most likely to be affected by Covid.
We are not going to be so ungrateful as to go ahead without them. We are currently looking at doing the formal dedication ceremony in the Fall of 2021, provided that we can do so safely.
We also want to have as many of the serving members of the Camerons present as possible, so we’re coordinating the possible dates with the CO. In case some of you aren’t aware, we will likely have most of the serving soldiers away providing aid to the civil power. The current expectation is they will be supporting Covid vaccination program activities and/or all other Covid response activities as directed by the military. Ullamh.
* REGIMENTAL WEB SITES *
The Unit web site is still up running, but it will be undergoing a long overdue updating and upgrading sometime in the near future. We have a short list of candidates to carry out the work and will be selecting one early in the New Year.
The unit web site continues to be a point of contact between ourselves, the families of those who served in the Camerons, and those who become interested in the Camerons for one reason or another. We continue to have requests through the unit web site for information from families about former Camerons. If anybody can help out with them please feel free to do so. You can find the web site at:
http://thequeensowncameronhighlandersofcanada.net/
Link current to 29 Nov 2020
Speaking of the Unit web site, the photos from the old Cameron Picasaweb site can be found again by going to the Photo Gallery link on the Regiment part of our web site.
Links current to 29 Nov 2020
“The Cameron Highlanders of Canada Memorial Site, Recording the History of the Regiment, 1914-1919” web site is one that every Cameron should have looked at over the coming years. Thank you so very much for an unparalleled job of helping out the Cameron regimental family Mr. McLean.
http://www.cameronhighlanderscanada.com/
Link current to 29 Nov 2020
* UNIT EVENTS *
REGIMENT: The regiment is somewhat constrained in it’s activities these days. The CO, RSM, and all of the Cameron staff are doing what they can to keep training interesting and admin running smoothly, and looking forward to better times coming.
This year is the first in a long time that we had 2 majors commanding the two companies, and of course it comes when we aren’t able to do much. Lots of unit events are getting cancelled but the CO and some of the more tech minded were able to run a virtual Christmas dinner. There is some hope to follow up with a virtual Robbie Burns, but we’ll see if that thought can be brought to fruition. After all, the Scottish Gentlemen’s Club pulled off a virtual St. Andrew’s Dinner, complete with haggis and amber bead sauce !
The Logistik system is starting to come online. Eventually everyone will be able to order their regimental kit through that system, kilts, sporran and hose. We’ve seen delivery of a few pieces, brogues and hose, some have received balmorals and glengarries.
We must also bid fare thee well to Maj. Ward Lentz and his lady at this time. He will be transferring to the Regular Force to teach senior courses at the Infantry School. We may not recognize him in his new beret and R.C.I.C. Cap badge, but we’ll still remember him as a lad with style and a taste for winter running the Hypothermic Half Marathon.
He’s not leaving empty handed of course. He got a fine helping of Bacon to bring along as well as a few fond memories. Cheers for now sir !
BATTALION & “A” COMPANY UPDATE: Sgt-Maj. Clark has passed along the following info.
“A” Company was shut down in March for Covid, so 38 Brigade staffed a Domestic Response Company, which equated to some 100 odd pers from across the brigade. They ended up taking online courses for the summer which will no doubt benefit us down the road.
Then we managed to Stand To, made it through 2 Collective Training exercises, had the third shut down and changed to online presentations. Parade nights are virtual as well and it sounds
like the fourth CT will be online. Numerically, we were still fielding more troops than the Rifles on parade as well as the field. Now the battle is to keep them interested even though they can’t do anything physical.
We did weapons review and pipe band / uniform briefs. We’re going to give orders for CT4 next, and give them a chance to do battle procedure and talk through the execution Give the troops a chance to work on a transport annex to get them to open their minds to the planning process
Courses are piecemeal. Courses like winter warfare and the psyops stuff are cancelled right now. A few courses are getting run, we have one member on ISCC, and young Trenchard on the preliminary courses for ISCC. We also have 6 people attached to 2 VP for road to high readiness-esqe training, and another 6 doing the new machine gun course with 2 VP.
We’ve got classes assigned to the leadership until stand down, then we’ll have to re assess what we’ve been doing and what’s working.
Pipes & Drums Update: Courtesy, as usual, of our P/M Dan Locke:
While the ongoing pandemic has prevented the band from performing together live, the pipers and drummers have nonetheless kept up an active schedule.
A few of our members produced recordings for a Canada Day video performance coordinated by our colleagues at the Stormont, Dundas, and Glengarry Highlanders that has been viewed several thousand times across various online channels, and in the latter part of the summer, Pte Dawson was able to support several outdoor events for the St. Andrew’s Society of Winnipeg’s 150th anniversary.
In terms of training, Pte Dawson, Pte Summerton, and Cpl Rosin have completed piping and drumming trade qualifications being offered remotely for the first time this fall, and the band has maintained its regular instruction for the cadet pipers via online video conferencing and a website developed by Pte Summerton. The Pipes & Drums continue to rehearse together online every week, adding a number of new sets to their repertoire with an eye on producing a full- length album in 2021.
Cameron Kit Shop:
Still in a bit of a state of flux right now while the Camerons get it sorted out with new kit items and so on. The QM staff are ready and willing but Covid will be an issue for a while yet.
* REGIMENTAL ADVISORY BOARD NOTES *
The Advisory Board has continued to provide excellent support to the Cameron Monument
Project in every possible fashion, from moral support, to financial advice and guidance, to coordination with the City of Winnipeg. Work has started in Vimy Ridge Park per their redevelopment plan, Phase 3; and the goal is to have as much as possible done before it gets too cold to work.
* REGIMENTAL FOUNDATION 2019-20 NOTES *
The Regimental Foundation has been far more than merely very helpful with the Cameron Monument and continues to help the Association with the funding. There have been some large bills at this point and a few more big ones will be coming soon. You can still help if you are so inclined.
Cheque to the Cameron Foundation: This can be done by sending your donation of $25 Cdn or more (because while lesser amounts are welcome, to get a tax receipt it MUST be $25 CDN or more) to:
The Cameron Foundation 180 Kingsway Ave
Wpg, MB R3M 0H2
For e-transfer information please contact us at:
ONLY donations of more than $25 by cheque or E-Transfer will be issued a tax receipt.
The 2020 AGM report is available for those who are interested.
Thank you to all of those who have contributed to the Foundation. Every dollar helps !
* CAMERON CADETS *
The Cameron cadets are doing OK. The corps strength is now 81 cadets. Well done to all involved ! Per Capt. Phil Atkinson’s November report:
The Queen’s Own Cameron cadet corps has been mentioned by RCSU (NW) regarding the fact that we are one of only a couple of army corps in Manitoba to have successfully organized and implemented virtual training for our cadets. Sergeants and Warrants will have an opportunity to do a review board for their promotions or position placements. Virtual Star Level classes have had regular attendance over the past month. RCSU (NW) has encouraged rural corps and corps struggling with the virtual environment to attend the classes taught by QOCH staff.
When gathering restrictions are lifted 407 is planning a one-day FTX training for bivouac, navigation and trekking as well as our adventure FTX.
Staff
Staff are working hard at their assigned duties within the virtual environment.
Upcoming Corps Events
The virtual winter party is planned prior to the winter stand down on the 10th of December. We hope you have a Happy Holiday Season (as good as possible) and a healthy New Year.
Information about the corps activities can be found at www.407army.ca
The cadets are also communicating on Facebook and Instagram regarding corps activities.
* REGIMENTAL REINFORCEMENTS *
Nil this time out that the Editor is aware of.
* OTHER REGIMENTAL NOTES *
Rounds Completed:
Covid Round 1 and we’re well started into Round 2. The usual activities have had to be cancelled or modified to go online. A fine recent example was the Soldier’s Appreciation Dinner. Well done and Merry Christmas to the tech oriented people at the Regiment who got us into the Modern Age ! Again that is.
Editor’s note: Funny, seems just yesterday the “Modern Age” meant learning how to set your VCR, using those new fangled NVGs, and the C-7/C-9 SARP.
Incoming Rounds:
NOV 11TH, REMEMBRANCE DAY – NOTHING AT MINTO THIS YEAR _ COVID
Disappointing to be sure, but I think most of us managed to find a way to pay our respects.
THE CAMERON FALLEN COMRADES MEMORIAL DEDICATION CEREMONY
Delayed until at least Fall 2021.
* LINKS *
Before You Go – Information for Reservists to assist their Release from the Canadian Armed Forces This site is set up for guys like us. The P Res guys who are trying to figure out just what in the heck is supposed to happen. It is available to guys who are already releasing, are long out, etc.
http://www.forces.gc.ca/en/caf-community-support-services-for-members-reservists/before-you-go.page
Link current to 28 Oct 2020
Registered Disability Savings plan (RDSP)
If you have left the military with a disability that qualifies you may wish to look into this plan:
https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/tax/individuals/topics/registered-disability-savings-plan- rdsp.html
Link current to 28 Oct 2020
* LIGHT READING *
Editor’s Note: This article by Richard Shimooka printed in The National Post is another item that isn’t really “Light Reading”, it’s full of very important information that we as Camerons need to pay attention to. Make the time to visit their site and read it. Here’s a sample for you:
It’s an increasingly unstable world out there. Canada’s military should be prepared
“ A new geopolitical order is taking shape. The globe is rapidly realigning under American and Chinese spheres of influence and the pandemic has only raised the stakes. How can Canada finally get serious about its internal stability and external security so it can effectively play a role as a middle power ?” …
“ Canada has prospered within the liberal democratic order, in large part because of its close proximity and strong economic and diplomatic relations with the United States and Europe. It however has been slow to realize and address these new realities.
Part of the issue is that Canadians are not conversant in international relations, much less its new military dynamics. A recent public opinion study conducted by the University of Calgary and Nanos Research found that 31 per cent of Canadians thought that the proper role for Canada was as a peacekeeper, mediator or a voice of reason; more than double the next most likely response.
Yet this view is completely oblivious to the country’s present geopolitical reality. Most states do not see Canada as a neutral party — rather it is part and parcel of the existing liberal democratic order. Furthermore, peacekeeping is an outdated military concept, as armed groups today have little to no respect for lightly armed interveners. As was evident in Mali, modern stabilization operations look much more like our combat operations in Afghanistan in the 2000s ”
* HISTORICAL NOTES *
Cameron Centenarians
This year will mark the first known Camerons to celebrate their 100th birthday in I have no idea how long. Clayton Hunter was our first, and shown here is Ken Smith, our second Birthday Boy.
Subject: Col. Doug Ludlow’s medals found – Thank You ! 01/25/2020
I forgot to let you know that I had tracked down Tim Klumper! I went to his place today and retrieved my dad’s medals and the other items of his Tim had I had forgotten about everything
but the large and miniature set of medals!!!
I appreciate your willingness to help and that you and others had reached out on my behalf. Thank you all so much! Please assure all involved that my father’s belongings are now home!
Much gratitude.
Megan Ludlow
Verification of Former Service DS Solution: You can check the FAQ at this site for more information but here are the basics:
“28. I used to be a CAF member. How do I get my file? Service records of retired or released CAF members are kept at DND for only a few years before they are sent to Library and Archives Canada.
So if you recently retired or have recently been released from the CAF, and suspect your records might not yet be held at Library and Archives Canada, you may contact the DND Directorate of Military Careers Administration to obtain your records by dialing
1-866-240-6726. However, most military records may be obtained through Library and Archives Canada, including at the following Library and Archives sub-site:
Link current to 16 Oct 2020
https://thediscoverblog.com/2011/12/20/how-to-order-military-records-from-the-personnel-records-unit
Links current to 16 Oct 2020
You may call Library and Archives by dialing 1-866-578-7777 for assistance. Library and Archives Canada is the federal government department that preserves and makes accessible the documentary heritage of Canada. It also serves as the continuing memory of the Government of Canada and its institutions. As such, Library and Archives Canada holds extensive collections of military records.”
“IT WOULDN’T BE AN OATMEAL RAG WITHOUT A WEE JOKE”- RUSS MILLER (SWW VET, FORMER RSM, AND OATMEAL RAG EDITOR)
Some reflections on Covid courtesy of Andy McKechnie Aug 6 2020:
My urologist’s office called the other day and explained that my scheduled appointment would now be done over the phone due to the coronavirus.
One hour before the scheduled teleconference, I was instructed (via email) to administer my own urine test.
This was to avoid those lab tests and costly co-pays that your doctor’s tell you to get at Quest Diagnostics, and because they’re shutdown too.
Directions:
Simply go outside and pee on the front lawn. If ant’s gather: DIABETES.
If you pee on your feet: PROSTATE.
If it smells like a barbecue: CHOLESTEROL.
If your wrist hurts when you shake it: OSTEOARTHRITIS.
If you return to your house with your penis outside your pants: ALZHEIMER’S.
Sponsorship
We are always seeking sponsors or advertisers to help defray the cost of this publication. If anyone is interested or has any suggestions as to whom to contact please let us know and we’ll be happy to do the follow up.
Sponsors to date are: Mr. Max Katz, our very first sponsor, of the Oatmeal Rag and the Jewish War Vets; Mr. Greg Flom, a former Cameron; Maj. Bill Gray, Cameron Advisory Board; Sgt Tim Seeley, Drum Sgt Extraordinaire; MCpl (Ret’d) Mark Silver, our “Eastern Branch” contact; Sgt (Ret’d) Roy Taylor, the Cameron WO’s & Sgt’s #1 choice for reading “Rab” Burn’s poetry; Maj. Ken Smith, who also has so kindly donated prizes for the Reunion Golf; Col. Bob Darling, Past President of the Cameron Advisory Board; Mr. W L (Lloyd) Jones, SWW Cameron; P/M Donald Morrison Cold War; Ken Smith and Lloyd Jones yet again God bless them; Sgt. Bill Douglas, Dieppe Raid.
Gentlemen, we thank you !
Around the Unit Lines
LCol Atwell & the now Major Josh Fordham. Congrats sir !
Members of the regiment making a blood donation December 5, 2020 Queens Own Cameron Highlanders of Canada lady’s compact, information sought
Pte Dawson – Pop-up piper event for St. Andrew’s Society
The draft Instagram post made by Mr. Cameron Blair with Gordon Moyer’s poem and a WW2 pic of his grandfather
Nollaig chridheil agus bliadhna mhath ùr from the Cameron Association in Canada !
Trooping of the Colours, 29 Aug, 1940 courtesy of CPO2 (Ret’d) Herb Thompson
As always our special thanks to
The Commissionaires for their continued support !