Recently, the President of the CMEA received a note from Isabella Poston, the recipient of the Sgt C.M. Ralph Memorial Bursary. Isabella is studying at the University College of London (UK) where there is a COVID-19 lockdown. She wrote:
Dear Mr. Dickson,
From Facebook 29 Dec 20:
“It’s very humbling and I’m really surprised,” said Master Warrant Officer (MWO) Edward Hebb on December 4, 2020, upon learning Her Excellency Governor General Julie Payette has appointed him as a member of the Order of Military Merit.
From the CBC, 19 December 2020
As the head of NATO’s training mission in Iraq, Canadian Military Engineer MGen Jennie Carignan had a front row seat to some of the most extraordinary and dangerous moments on the international scene in 2020. What was it like to sit in her chair as she tried to hold the NATO mission together in the face of a potential war with Iran, possible expulsion from Iraq and a global pandemic?
This year is the first time each award has been given in memory of a prominent member of the Canadian Military Engineer family. The personalities selected represent the rich range of history and accomplishments the Engineers have contributed to our nation. Each recipient will receive a special memorial scroll in their name. The tradition has begun and all future bursary awards will be so named. Congratulations to all our winners.
Do you know someone who deserves to be celebrated for their courage & leadership?
The Conference of Defence Associations Institute is pleased to announce the opening of the Captain Nichola Goddard Leadership Award Call for Nominations.
Hier, (2 février 2020) le GCmdt de la 2e Div a remis les mentions élogieuses ‘’ Du Commandement des opérations interarmées du Canada’’ aux Adj Pouliot (géomatique); et Sgt Bédard (sapeur de combat) du 5e RGC.
On 2 December 2020, Commander, 2nd Canadian Division, has awarded the Commander Joint Operations Command Commendation to WO Pouliot (geo) and Sgt Bedard (Cbt Engr) of 5e RGC.
Roughly translated, WO Pouliot's commendation reads:
Serving and Retired CME Branch Members,
As your Senior Serving Engineer, I want to take the opportunity to thank you all for the tremendous support and professionalism you continue to give to the Canadian Armed Forces as I hang up the uniform after 38+ years of service. I will be retiring on Friday 4 Dec 2020.
After six years of loyal and dedicated service to the Canadian Military Engineers, BGen Steve Irwin (Ret'd) will transfer the duties of Colonel Commandant to MGen Dan Benjamin, effective 21 March 2021. The Change of Appointment ceremony will take place in accordance with the COVID-19 guidelines in effect at that time.
The CMEA welcomes General Benjamin and sends a heart felt thank you to General Irwin for his loyal and energetic service.
Chimo!
Over the years, The Netherlands has struck several versions of their “Medal of Remembrance” to honour the soldiers who helped liberate their country during the Second World War. In 1995, on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the liberation of Holland, the Netherlands offered a "Thank you Canada" anniversary medal to the more than 20,000 Canadian veterans who came to Holland to celebrate this memorable occasion.