Article by: Capt Kyle Ho, RPOU(W) Program Officer
Depart with Dignity (DWD) is a cherished tradition in the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF), recognizing members who are honorably discharged and have completed their service. Typically, it involves a luncheon with close friends and peers, the presentation of some the certificates, a few letters of appreciation, and departure gifts from the troops. While many choose not to have a DWD due to the humble warrior culture embraced by the CAF, it remains a significant opportunity for retired members to say goodbye and share their experiences with those who follow in their footsteps. It also allows those influenced by the retiree to express their appreciation for the lasting impact on their development. There was a DWD hosted in an unusual setting in CFB Edmonton involving hand-to-hand combat.
Cpl Ilya Karassev retired after six years of service due to a career-ending injury that halted his dream of being a soldier. Initially frustrated with disappointed, Ilya decided to make a positive impact on those around him by rebuilding the 1 Combat Engineer Regimental (1 CER) Grappling Team post-COVID, after many original members had left the unit during the lockdown. This was no easy task as a junior member of the regiment trying to get a fresh start. With support from his Chain of Command in 17 Armoured Squadron, Cpl Karassev quickly found a group of Sappers who shared his interests and began training during morning PT sessions.
Following Close Quarter Combat Instructor protocols, Cpl Karassev ensured the training was conducted safely under supervision. Due to his injury, he trained within his limitations and lower intensity. He took on a coaching and teaching role, developing the program to be more inclusive for everyone. He attended the PSP Grappling Referee workshop and supported many military regional competitions as a referee. The 1 CER grappling program was introduced to the 1 CER training cadre as the weekly combat PT routine for incoming new Sappers to get comfortable with being uncomfortable. Cpl Karassev and his team offered the grappling program as the Friday combat PT for their unit leadership. Many senior NCOs and senior officers including the CO of 1 CER, LCol Michael Veitch attended the training and discovered the importance of the combat sport in CAF. Cpl Karassev’s effort won him the PSP Coach of the Year Award in recognition of contribution to the military combat sport.
"Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) is for everyone, but not everyone is for BJJ. You don't need to be a CO or RSM to inflict changes. I will do what I can to influence those who want to be influenced. I am content that in my short time in the Army, I have built something that will last long after my departure," Cpl Ilya Karassev (retired) said in his farewell after his final training session with the grapplers from CFB Edmonton.
Cpl Karassev's motivation and attitude demonstrated that anyone could make an impact, regardless of what ranks they are or the challenges they are facing. His contributions to rebuilding the grappling sports in 1 CER post-COVID lockdown was the highlight of his career. He has now passed the torch to MCpl Alastaire McDonald and MCpl Johnson Phung to lead the 1 CER Grappling Team to the national.
Thank you for your service, Cpl Karassev, and best of luck in your future endeavors.
CHIMO!
Photo 1 – Cpl Ilya Karassev (R) receiving his PSP Coach of the Year Award
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Photo 2 – 1 CER won 4th place in Grappling during Ex Strong Contender 2022 with only 8 competitors. Cpl Ilya Karassev middle rear row.
Photo by MCpl Johnson Phung, 1 CER
Photo 3 – 1 CER Grappling Team grow rapidly due to Cpl Ilya Karassev’s efforts (Front row left) post-COVID.
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Photo 4 – Captain Kyle Ho, RPOU(W) (L), presented Corporal Ilya Karassev, 1 CER (R), with a departure gift on behalf of the CFB Edmonton Grappling Team. This gesture marks the end of Karassev's service and celebrates the enduring friendships formed on the mat.
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Photo 5 – (L-R) Cpl Anthony Zabinsky, 1 HQ & Sigs, MCpl Johnson Phung, 1 CER, Cpl Jack Purkiss, LdSH (RC), , Cpl Ilya Karassev, 1 CER, Pte Minh Pham, 1 HQ & Sigs, Capt Kyle Ho, RPOU-W, and Maj Hollich Ho, 3 Cdn Div gathered to celebrate the Depart with Dignity on the mat marks the end of Cpl Karassev’s service in the military.
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