Article by: Capt Kyle Ho
On 20 Aug 24, Real Property Operations Unit (West) (RPOU(W)) took the time to celebrate a significant milestone: the 10th anniversary of the Canadian Forces Real Property Operations Group's (RP Ops). In true celebratory fashion, the festivities were marked with a unique and fitting tribute—a Canadian Military Engineer cake, which honoured engineering heritage and symbolized the commitment of its members. RP Ops was established in 2014 to streamline property management within the CAF. Over the past decade, RPOU(W) has been pivotal in maintaining and managing the infrastructure which is crucial to the Canadian military's operational readiness.
The anniversary event also marked a significant change in leadership within RPOU(W). Chief Warrant Officer (CWO) Eric Barney, who has served as the Unit Chief Warrant Officer since 2023, received a formal farewell after completing another notable posting in his notable career.
Enlisting in the Primary Reserve in 1993 as a Combat Engineer, CWO Barney transitioned to the Regular Force in 1996 as an Electrical Generating Systems (EGS) Technician. His career highlights include serving with the 1 Combat Engineer Regiment (1 CER) in Afghanistan, overseeing EGS operations in Halifax, and a posting at the Canadian Embassy in Kabul. Their leadership was further demonstrated during their time at CFB Petawawa and various high-profile roles across the Canadian Forces. CWO Barney’s next appointment is the Formation CWO at the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) Aerospace Warfare Centre in Trenton.
The incoming Unit Chief Warrant Officer is CWO Craig Watts who joined the Canadian Armed Forces (CAFs) in 2001 as an Electrical Distribution Technician (EDT). CWO Watts' career path has been diverse and impactful. Their experience spans deployments to Pakistan and Afghanistan, a significant role in supporting the 2010 Olympics, and various instructional and leadership positions across the CAF.
CHIMO!
Photo 1 – Key leadership from Section Edmonton arrived to attend the CoA ceremony.
Photo by Capt Kyle Ho
Photo 2 – RPOU-W HQ Staffs arrived to attend the CoA ceremony. (L-R) RPOU-W Information Management Officer, Cher-Ann Chai, RPOU-W Administrative Officer, Kendra Cooper, and RPOU-W Procurement Officer, Carolyn Driscoll
Photo by Capt Kyle Ho
Photo 3 – RPOU-W Operations and Program Team. (L-R) Operation COS, Maj Michael Mueller, Program 2, Capt Kyle Ho, Operation 2, Capt Benjamin Campbell, and Program Officer, Capt John Hufnagel.
Photo by Brett Pelletier
Photo 4 – Key RPOU-W HQ staffs arriving for the ceremony.
Photo by Capt Kyle Ho
Photo 5 – CoA Ceremony (L-R) The new RPOU-W RSM, CWO Craig Watts, RPOU-W CO, LCol Johnathan Hallett, and outgoing RPOU-W RSM, CWO Eric Barney.
Photo by Maj Michael Mueller
Photo 6 – LCol Johnathan Hallett receives the RPOU-W UCWO pace stick from CWO Eric Barney. The image captures the transition of responsibility and tradition with a sense of reverence and the weight of history.
Photo by Maj Michael Mueller
Photo 7 – LCol Johnathan Hallett handed the RPOU-W pace stick to the incoming CWO Craig Watts. It marks the passing of the iconic symbol of leadership with expressions of pride and respect for a decade of excellence.
Photo by Maj Michael Mueller
Photo 8 – CWO Craig Watts enjoyed their first Canadian beer after a 3-years posting in Germany during the social in WOSM Edmonton.
Photo by Capt Kyle Ho
Photo 9 – RPOU(W) CO purchased a CME cake for his HQ staffs to celebrate ADM(IE) birthday and welcoming the UCWO, CWO Craig Watts.
Photo by Capt Kyle Ho
Photo 10 – RPOU(W) took a moment out of their busy schedule to connect with their colleagues.
Photo by Capt Kyle Ho