Article by Capt Kyle Ho, RPOU(W) Program Officer

In a powerful show of unity and cultural celebration, the Real Property Operations Unit (West) (RPOU-W) and 1 Combat Engineer Regiment (1 CER) hosted an unofficial visit for Lieutenant-Commander Beth Lei, Co-Chair of the Defence Team Canadian Asian Network (DTCAN) on 29 Apr 25 at CFB Edmonton.

LCdr Lei, born in Taipei, Taiwan, brings over 30 years of distinguished service in the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF). Her operational deployments span Afghanistan, Sudan, and the Multinational Force and Observers mission in Egypt. She served as the Canadian Deputy Task Force Commander in South Sudan. Her academic credentials are equally impressive, holding a First-Class Honours Bachelor of Arts in Sociology, a Master of Arts in Conflict Analysis and Management, and a Master of Laws specializing in Alternative Dispute Resolution.

Although not an official visit, LCdr Lei’s visit to introduce DTCAN to local members in Edmonton was a personal initiative as the DTCAN co-chair. She shared her journey, the DTCAN mission, and the importance of Asian representation, outreach, and the ability to promote cultural awareness for Canadians of Asian descent in the Defence Team. LCdr Lei emphasized. “Asian culture is ingrained in Canadian culture, and DTCAN is here to ensure that every voice is heard and valued. I believe that leaders who embrace diversity are better equipped to handle complex challenges, as they benefit from a wider range of perspectives and make more informed decisions. Inclusive leadership empowers individuals and fosters stronger, more adaptable teams.” Maj Melissa Gilbride, Deputy Commanding Officer of 1 CER and a long-time member of the Defence Women’s Advisory Organization (DWAO), added:

“Networks like DTCAN and DWAO help ensure that everyone, regardless of background, feels welcome and valued in our ranks.”

LCdr Lei’s presence added a meaningful layer to the celebration of the Canadian Military Engineer (CME) Birthday and the upcoming Asian Heritage Month led by RPOU-W and 1 CER. Interested members from 1 CER, 1 PPCLI, and other units were encouraged to join the growing DTCAN community after her visit. Commanding Officer of 1 CER, LCol Michael Veitch, commented on the initiative: “Grassroots networks like DTCAN are essential to building a Defence Team where everyone feels seen, respected, and empowered. Celebrating all cultures strengthens our cohesion and operational effectiveness.” LCol Johnathan Hallett, Commanding Officer of RPOU-W also made a statement during the visit: “We are proud to support efforts that bring people together through shared stories and cultural appreciation.”

DTCAN is not an exclusive organization. It is a welcoming network for both military and civilian who are passionate about celebrating cultural diversity and promoting equity and inclusion within the CAF and Defence Team.

To learn more about DTCAN or to get involved, please contact dtcan-raced@forces.gc.ca.

Photos by: RPOU-W Program Officer, Capt Kyle Ho.