LCol Julien has proudly served the Royal Canadian Engineers for 25 years and will be retiring on 26 June 2015.
LCol Jim Julien considers himself a very lucky man. From humble beginnings working dairy farms in Eastern Ontario to having the opportunity to Command a Combat Engineer Regiment and be the G3 of 3 Cdn Div (much cooler name than an ‘Area’), he has had an incredible journey. Jim’s adventure would not have been possible if it was not for the amazing cast of characters he has come to know and love over the last two and half decades. Relationships were forged at RRMC, CFSME (Chilliwack and Gagetown), 1 CMBG HQ, DCDS/CEFCOM, DLFD, SJS, JCSP, LFWA/3 Cdn Div HQ and of course 1 CER (Chilliwack and Edmonton) where he was lucky enough to Command and deploy on operations at Troop, Squadron and Regimental levels. He was guided by peers, superiors and subordinates at every turn and for that he is truly grateful. To attempt to single out individuals for their support, mentorship and friendship would be an exercise in futility and he would surely fail to mention everyone whose relationship he holds dear. That said, those of you who read this know well the part you have played in Jim’s career – please know he is in your debt. Jim, as many who have left before him, will miss his friends and culture of trust, hard work and humour that characterizes life in the forces. Notwithstanding, Jim is excited to start the next chapter of his life with a smile on his face and his family, thankfully, still by his side. CHIMO.
Jim’s final “tour” will be a yearlong road trip around North America with his wife, Christina and their children; Ben, Alex and Sophia. After a year of adventures in their Fifth Wheel RV, they intend to settle in the Comox valley to enjoy a slower pace of life. Major pursuits for the whole family will include fishing, camping, skiing and sampling the island culture. If you wish to follow the Juliens’ adventure on the road, they will be blogging out at julienfamilyroadtrip.com
There will be a Depart With Dignity stand-up ‘light lunch’ at the Edmonton Garrison Officer’s Mess on 24 Jun 15 starting at 1230hrs. With any luck, the weather will allow the activity to spill out into the outdoor area. Cost should be minor (details still being worked) but the bar will be open which could drive up individual costs…
The OPI of the DWD is Maj Tom St Onge but RSVPs and any anecdotes/well wishes should be sent to the 3 Cdn Div G3 AO, Ms. Michelle Curé, at michelle.cure@forces.gc.ca.