Canadian Military Oral Histories

User Collection Public

The Canadian Military Oral History Collection is composed of interviews of veterans of WWI, WWII, the Korean War and the War in Afghanistan. Over 370 recordings done by Dr. Reginald H. Roy and his students are the largest holding in this category. Historian Hal Lawrence also donated over 180 recordings that he collected of Canadian Naval personnel.

Collection descriptions

The following are descriptions of the major collections of interviews that make up the collection:

Reg Roy collection

Dr. Reginald H. Roy was the Chair of Military History (1968-1988) and the Social Sciences Research Centre (1970-75) at the University of Victoria. The Reg Roy fonds contains over 370 sound recordings of oral histories conducted over his career and was recognized by Lieutenant-Governor Iona Campagnolo in 2005.

Social Sciences Research Centre collection

This is an important subset of the Reg Roy collection of military oral histories and consists of extensive interviews with Major-General George R. Pearkes and other interviews with his family and a number of personal and professional associates for his biography entitled For Most Conspicuous Bravery: A Biography of Major-General George R. Pearkes, V.C., Through Two World Wars (1977).

Hal Lawrence collection

This collection includes approximately 120 interviews conducted by Commander Hal Lawrence in collaboration with National Defence/Défense nationale on the Canadian Navy (1940-1995). Some of these interviews have been transcribed and some are only available as transcripts.

Shawn Cafferky collection

This collection of 14 interviews by military historian Dr. Shawn Cafferky of the University of Victoria's Department of History were conducted in 1997 and refer to the experimental Squadron VX-10, and the testing and use of the Sikorsky CH-124 Sea King helicopter.

Military oral history class interviews

Since 2005, the History Department has offered a Military Oral History seminar course as a component of the Canadian Veterans Oral History Project, a joint project of the Royal United Services Institute of Vancouver Island (RUSI VI) and University of Victoria. The seminar course offers students the opportunity to interview veterans for course credit and the resulting interviews are deposited with University of Victoria Special Collections.

Elizabeth Hazlitte collection

This collection is comprised of six interviews with veterans of WWI conducted from 1983-84 by Elizabeth Hazlitte, a nurse at Victoria's Veteran's Hospital at the Memorial Pavilion.

David Stafford collection

This collection is comprised of nine interviews conducted by Dr. David Stafford, retired history professor at the University of Victoria, for his monograph on clandestine operations in WWII.

Copyright policy

The material is to be used solely for the purpose of research or private study. Any use of the copy for a purpose other than research of private study may require the authorization of the copyright owner of the work in question. The user must assume full responsibility for obtaining copyright permission to publish items in whole or in part.

Although the University of Victoria has permission to make the oral histories available to researchers, the copyright belongs to the interviewees. If extensive passages are used for publication, exhibition or presentation permission from the copyright holder is necessary.

Publication credit

The University of Victoria Special Collections will be given a copy of the book, article, exhibition catalogue, or supporting publication in all cases of publication, exhibition, or presentation of the oral history reproductions. In such cases a credit line citation should read as follows:

University of Victoria, Special Collections, Military Oral History Collection,
[Name of Interviewee], [Record ID Number]

Image: Elizabeth Hazlitte interviewing World War One veteran Egbert Browning in 1983

Resource type

Collection

Subject

Genre

Location

Canada, , Canada

Permalink: http://vault.library.uvic.ca/collections/4a7eade6-d0b7-4807-8cd2-6eb9c5a66937

Collection Details

: Items 789
: Last Updated 2025-04-01

Parent Collections (1)

Military History Collection

Works (789)

651. Brygadyr, Stanley: my Royal Canadian Navy recollections (March 18, 2013)

Title:: Brygadyr, Stanley: my Royal Canadian Navy recollections (March 18, 2013)
Description:: An interview/narrative of Stanley Brygadyr's experiences whilst serving with the Royal Canadian Navy as an aviator. Interview took place on March 18, 2013., Interviewer: Schneider, Matt, Interviewee: Brygadyr, Stanley, Rank: Colonel. , and ABSTRACT: This interview covers naval aviation, particularly carrier operations, during the 1960s. Colonel Brygadyr was an officer in squadrons VS-880 and VX-1 0 during this period, and the majority of events discussed come from his personal experiences. Beginning with are view of training, this interview covers tactical ASW operations involving the CS2FTracker, a chronology of HMCS Bonaventure operations, and VX-10 developmental operations. RCN structure, and strategy are discussed, as well as the possibilities for fighter aircraft. This interview concludes with the effects of Unification on the careers of former naval aviators. 0.00-family and personal background 1.30-motivations for naval enlistment, Venture program 5.50-experience training with RCAF 6.30-Carrier operations indoctrination9.00-Landing Signals Officer role explanation 10.45-landing and takeoff procedure 17.00-naval seagoing experience previous to Bonaventure 19.33-HMCS Bonaventure, impressions, background 23.14-ASW: CS2F Tracker discussion, ASW tactics, submarine types and considerations, detection equipment 30.10-structure of VS-880 squadron (anti-submarine squadron) 32.00-operation anecdotes 34.15-events leading up to and surrounding Cuban missile crisis 43.40-experiences with USN 47.00-daily flying routine with VS-880 51.10-experiences with VX-1 0 (experimental squadron) 53.15-RCN organization and its relation with naval aviation5 8.12-RCN fleet structure, a defense of ASW specialization 61.05-VF-870 (fighter squadron), and the F2H Banshee 66.16-A-4 Skyhawk trials67.30-the process of armed forces unification, 1968 69.00-side note on loss of Bonaventure 72.05-experiences with Argus in various squadrons 74. 00-conclusion
Subject:: Cuban Missile Crisis (1962), Armed Forces--Officers, Military history, Naval history, and Canada. Royal Canadian Navy
Contributor:: Schneider, Matt and Brygadyr, Stanley
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 2013-03-18
Rights Statement:: In Copyright - Educational Use Permitted
License:: This interview has been posted with the understanding that it may be used for research purposes only. Should the interviewee or their heirs have any objections to this interview being accessible on the Internet, it will be removed promptly. Contact UVic Special Collections for permission if using for other than research purposes: speccoll@uvic.ca
Resource Type:: http://purl.org/dc/dcmitype/Sound
Extent:: 1 sound recording (MP3)
Geographic Coverage:: Canada
Coordinates:: 60.10867, -113.64258
Additional Physical Characteristics:: Original sound recording (MP3) also available.
Physical Repository:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Collection:: Canadian Military Oral History Collection
Provider:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Genre:: oral histories (literary genre), reminiscences, interviews, and sound recordings
Archival Item Identifier:: BS_796
Fonds Title:: Military oral history collection
Fonds Identifier:: SC141
Is_referenced_by:: Special Collections Finding Aid: https://search.archives.uvic.ca/military-oral-history-collection
Date Digitized:: 2013-04-08
Technical Note:: Digital sound recording in .mp3 format at 128 kbps and 44 kHz. Recorded in digital format by interviewer, technical and cataloguing metadata provided by JF and JP. Interview recorded in digital format for UVic Special Collections in 2013. Migration metadata by KD and MT.

652. Dempsey, Dan: my Royal Canadian Air Force recollections (March 18, 2013)

Title:: Dempsey, Dan: my Royal Canadian Air Force recollections (March 18, 2013)
Description:: ABSTRACT: Lt. Colonel Dempsey's interview begins with his biographical information and details motives behind joining the Air Force in 1970. The interview than gathers his opinions on R.C.A.F. public relations, and the participation in air shows importance to the Canadian forces before responding to common criticisms of air shows. Dempsey, a former Snowbird lead, then provides a wealth of information and anecdotes about the R.C.A.F. 431 demonstration team Snowbirds. He explains the commitment and skill required to become a Snowbird, and their importance to public relations and as a national icon. Near the end of the interview, Dempsey explains his position in the F-35 procurement debate. 0:00 Standard interview narratives. 0:40 Biographical information. 1:00 First Exposure to the R.C.A.F. and fathers experience in Air Force 2:05 Uncles experience in bombers in WW2. 3:10 The importance of the first air show he attended fostering his desire to join Air Force. 3:58 The scale of air shows in the past. 4:30 Desire to be a demonstration and fighter pilot. 5:25 Story of marriage, birth of children, and relation to his air force career. 6:30 Joining the Air Force in 1970 two years after unification. 8:00 The Air Force is a good way to get an education and career 8:30 First assignment in R.C.A.F. and training for CF-105 fighter. 9:30 Work as instructor, and first acceptance into Snowbirds. 10:20 Public relations importance to the R.C.A.F. and Canadian armed forces 11:50 The room for improvement and many challenges in military Public relations. 13:28 The main strategies the R.C.A.F. employs in public relations and the problem with media relations. 15:55 Talks about why the Canadian public may not know much about R.C.A.F. and compares it to countries that have experienced war. 16:40 Talks about his experience with public relations during the Gulf War 18:30 Talks about Canadian forces actions in Afghanistan, and public relations role in explaining costs. 19:55 Explains the main motives behind R.C.A.F. and the armed forces participation in air shows. 22:15 The importance of demonstrating skill and professionalism of armed forces and inspiring young Canadians. 23:00 Motives do not change if they are attending a public or private air show. 24:10 Why he feels air shows and demonstration teams are an important public relations tool. 25:53 Shows in the North can be the highlight of the year. 25:13 Public's response to Snowbirds and air shows. 27:00 Talks about presentation in Palm Springs about R.C.A.F. 28:05 Negative responses to air shows in terms of noise and pollution. 29:14 Changes in air show practice and methods throughout his career, especially after accident in 1988 in Germany. 30:15 Talks about difference between private air races and air shows. 31:20 Why he does not consider air show involvement to be dangerous. 32:45 Talks about differences between Canadian and American air shows. 32:56 Rules in both countries are exactly the same. 34:30 Why he feels that air shows are important for foreign relations, especially with the U.S. 36:45 Talks about Cold War era Sabre teams that performed in Europe and their role. 37:50 The great aspect of being a Snowbird is being able to represent your country. 38:40 Addresses the criticism of military air shows being used for military equipment sale. 39:50 Addresses criticism of air shows glorifying war machines. 41:28 Addresses the criticism of air pollution. 42:41 Addresses criticism of spending on Snowbirds, and why they are so important 43:38 Addresses the cost of replacing the Snowbird aircraft. 46:50 The total commitment and required attributes needed to become a Snowbird. 48:30 Try-out pilots can be vetoed on their personality, flying skill is of secondary importance. 50:20 The Snowbirds are an all-encompassing job due to training and air show circuit. 52:00 Talks about Snowbird interaction with the public on the ground being one of the most important aspects. 52:34 All the different places and events where the Snowbirds fly and visit 54:25 Explains why the Snowbirds fly the non-combat capable Tudor aircraft and why a 9 plane formation. 57:00 Talks about Snowbird aircraft replacement and costs. 60:10 Explains why the Snowbirds aren't under threat of disbandment. 61:32 Snowbirds are an integral part of public relations and recruiting. 63:50 Shares some personal anecdotes of personal interactions with the public as a Snowbird. 68:45 Re-iterates the importance of the Snowbirds to the Canadian forces. 69:35 States his opinion on the F-35 procurement debate. 74:10 The F-18 Super Hornet is the next best option. 76:00 Interview conclusion. 76:43 Interview ends. Hamilton, Daniel, Dempsey, CF-105, Pilot instructor, public relations, P.R., Cold War, Military spending, media releases, media problems, Canada, foreign relations, inspiration, Canadian Armed Forces, United States, U.S.A.F. Thunderbirds, criticisms, recruiting, Tutor, Hawk, F-35, procurement. Suggested Clip(s) for Archive: DEMPSEY 10:20 On public relations: "I think that people deserve to know how their money is being spent and be reassured that there money is being well spent. So that's where public relations comes in, and the public relations are to both inform and to educate people as to what the military represents, what the mandate of the military is and where the money is going and why it's going there, and why we may or may not be involved with various conflicts or relationships that are going on around the world." 29:14-Speaking about the 1989 Ramstein air show disaster: "That was an atrocious terrible, terrible accident that should never have happened but it did. And as a result even though our rules in Canada were much more stringent, they became even more stringent. To ensure that that kind of an accident can never happen North America" 31:20-Speaking on air show safety: "The Snowbirds, the Thunderbirds, the Blue Angels, the Red Arrows, to name a few of the Western very famous aerobatic teams are not daredevils, never have been never will be. Lot of people, you'll see in the press daredevils do this, daredevils do that. A daredevil does a manoeuvre where the outcome is dubious or questionable. The professional military aerobatic teams never do anything that is dubious. It is practiced to the nth degree hundreds and hundreds of times before it is ever done in the public." 39:50 Responding to criticism that demonstration teams glorify war: "We're not there to glorify war and we don't. We're through to entertain people, we're there to motivate people, we're there to inspire young kids to do something special with their lives, so yeah I hear the peace movement side of it, I just don't agree with them." 42:41-"The snowbirds have been a bargain for this country since the day they started. Even though the snowbirds fly 9 aircraft, there budget is about 1 tenth of each of what the American teams spend on their teams." 43:38 "Good grief, the last tutor came off the assembly in 1966, we're still flying it, still flying that aircraft and will be till 2020", Rank: Lieutenant Colonel. , Interviewee: Dempsey, Dan, Interviewer: Kowalski, Luke, and An interview/narrative of Dan Dempsey's experiences whilst serving with the Royal Canadian Air Force. Interview took place on March 18, 2013.
Subject:: Afghan Wars, Military history, Canada. Royal Canadian Air Force, Cold War (1945-1989), and Armed Forces--Officers
Contributor:: Kowalski, Luke and Dempsey, Dan
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 2013-03-18
Rights Statement:: In Copyright - Educational Use Permitted
License:: This interview has been posted with the understanding that it may be used for research purposes only. Should the interviewee or their heirs have any objections to this interview being accessible on the Internet, it will be removed promptly. Contact UVic Special Collections for permission if using for other than research purposes: speccoll@uvic.ca
Resource Type:: http://purl.org/dc/dcmitype/Sound
Extent:: 1 sound recording (MP3)
Geographic Coverage:: Middle East and Germany
Coordinates:: 33.13906, 35.85869 and 51.5, 10.5
Additional Physical Characteristics:: Original sound recording (WAV) also available.
Physical Repository:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Collection:: Canadian Military Oral History Collection
Provider:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Genre:: reminiscences, oral histories (literary genre), interviews, and sound recordings
Archival Item Identifier:: DD_788
Fonds Title:: Military oral history collection
Fonds Identifier:: SC141
Is_referenced_by:: Special Collections Finding Aid: https://search.archives.uvic.ca/military-oral-history-collection
Date Digitized:: 2013-03-18
Technical Note:: Digital sound recording in .mp3 format at 56 kbps and 24 kHz. Recorded in digital format by interviewer, technical and cataloguing metadata provided by JF and JP. Interview recorded in digital format for UVic Special Collections in 2013. Migration metadata by KD and MT.

653. Heath, Ted: my Navy recollections (March 19, 2013)

Title:: Heath, Ted: my Navy recollections (March 19, 2013)
Description:: Interviewee: Heath, Ted, An interview/narrative of Ted Heath's experiences whilst serving with the Royal Canadian Navy. Interview took place on March 19, 2013., Rank: Commander. , Interviewer: Illsey, Ray, and ABSTRACT: 00.00-04.10 - Biographical. Enlistment. Officer Training Program. 04.10-11.27 - Life on board. Watch keeping. Asst. Weapons Officer. ASW Air Controller. 11.27-14.46 - Promotions. Charter of Rights and Freedom. 14.46-19.21 - Personal life/relationships. Effects on personnel. 19.21-34.35 - Naval visit to Vladivostok. Comparisons of navies. 34.35-38.35 - Rescue of Vietnamese boat people. 38.35-43.01 - Preparations for Gulf War. 43.01-58.46 - Intelligence Officer, NATO during Balkans conflict. Peace keeping. 58.46-1.06.53 - Submarines and Arctic sovereignty. Climate change. 1.06.53-1.10.26 - Nuclear submarines. Procurement, CASAP. 1.10.26-1.21.07 - Upholder purchase. Maintenance costs. Naval public relations. 1.27.07-1.24.36 - Tracking Russians in Straits of Juan de Fuca. Sonar systems. 1.24.36 -1.34.49 - Future of Canadian Navy. Submarine capabilities. Defence budget. 1.34.49-1.53.12 - Public relations. Problems with current submarines. Navy as ambassadors. Submarine replacement program.
Subject:: Military history, Persian Gulf War (1991), Naval history, and Canada. Royal Canadian Navy
Contributor:: Heath, Ted and Illsey, Ray
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 2013-03-19
Rights Statement:: In Copyright - Educational Use Permitted
License:: This interview has been posted with the understanding that it may be used for research purposes only. Should the interviewee or their heirs have any objections to this interview being accessible on the Internet, it will be removed promptly. Contact UVic Special Collections for permission if using for other than research purposes: speccoll@uvic.ca
Resource Type:: http://purl.org/dc/dcmitype/Sound
Extent:: 1 sound recording (MP3)
Geographic Coverage:: Pacific Ocean--Strait of Juan de Fuca, Balkan Peninsula, and Russia (Federation)--Vladivostok
Coordinates:: 43.10562, 131.87353, 48.29674, -124.01225, and 43.97233, 22.11567
Additional Physical Characteristics:: Original sound recording (MP3) also available.
Physical Repository:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Collection:: Canadian Military Oral History Collection
Provider:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Genre:: sound recordings, oral histories (literary genre), reminiscences, and interviews
Archival Item Identifier:: HT_786
Fonds Title:: Military oral history collection
Fonds Identifier:: SC141
Is_referenced_by:: Special Collections Finding Aid: https://search.archives.uvic.ca/military-oral-history-collection
Date Digitized:: 2013-04-08
Technical Note:: Digital sound recording in .mp3 format at 192 kbps and 44 kHz. Recorded in digital format by interviewer, technical and cataloguing metadata provided by JF and JP. Interview recorded in digital format for UVic Special Collections in 2013. Migration metadata by KD and MT.

654. Donaldson, Robert William: my United Nations Disengagement Observer Force recollections (March 20, 2013)

Title:: Donaldson, Robert William: my United Nations Disengagement Observer Force recollections (March 20, 2013)
Description:: Interviewee: Donaldson, Robert William, 1942-, Rank: Captain. Medals and Honours: Canadian Forces Decoration, An interview/narrative of William Donaldson's experiences whilst serving with the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force. Interview took place on March 20, 2013., ABSTRACT: Captain Bill Donaldson's interview is regarding his time as deputy commanding officer to CANLOG in the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force. Donaldson's narrative focuses primarily on the United Nations, the changes that occurred during his time there, and the faults and successes of the United Nations' time as peacekeepers in the Middle East, primarily Israel. 00:00-00:18 - Introduction 00:18-05:34 - Basic personal information: name, background, enlistment age, awards 05:34-14:26 - Preparation for deployment to the Middle East 14:26-21:56 - Deployment: Stationing, interaction with other countries delegates 21:56-34:07 - Interaction with the United Nations, orders, protocols 34:08-44:08 - Duties, Day-to-Day activities, spare time, time off base, interactions with civilians 44:09-56:25 - Source of the tension, ethnic, historical. 56:26-1:05:16 - Canadian participation, its worth and Canadian media attention. 1:05:16-1:12:30 - Clarifications: peacekeeping vs. peacemaking, the original purpose for creating the UN. 1:12:30-1:13:00 - Conclusion Suggested Clip(s) for Archive: 27:01 - Opinion on peacekeeping as a term, and the nature of United Nations peace operations. Suggestions on changes and terms more appropriate., and Interviewer: Bond, Celeste
Subject:: United Nations, Personal narratives--Canadian, and Military history
Contributor:: Bond, Celeste and Donaldson, Robert William, 1942-
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 2013-03-20
Rights Statement:: In Copyright - Educational Use Permitted
License:: This interview has been posted with the understanding that it may be used for research purposes only. Should the interviewee or their heirs have any objections to this interview being accessible on the Internet, it will be removed promptly. Contact UVic Special Collections for permission if using for other than research purposes: speccoll@uvic.ca
Resource Type:: http://purl.org/dc/dcmitype/Sound
Extent:: 1 sound recording (MP3)
Geographic Coverage:: Israel and Middle East
Coordinates:: 31.5, 34.75 and 33.13906, 35.85869
Additional Physical Characteristics:: Original sound recording (MP3) also available.
Physical Repository:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Collection:: Canadian Military Oral History Collection
Provider:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Genre:: oral histories (literary genre), sound recordings, interviews, and reminiscences
Archival Item Identifier:: DB_772
Fonds Title:: Military oral history collection
Fonds Identifier:: SC141
Is_referenced_by:: Special Collections Finding Aid: https://search.archives.uvic.ca/military-oral-history-collection
Date Digitized:: 2013-03-20
Technical Note:: Digital sound recording in .mp3 format at 192 kbps and 44 kHz. Recorded in digital format by interviewer, technical and cataloguing metadata provided by JF and JP. Interview recorded in digital format for UVic Special Collections in 2013. Migration metadata by KD and MT.

655. Barnes, Lloyd: my Navy recollections (March 21, 2013)

Title:: Barnes, Lloyd: my Navy recollections (March 21, 2013)
Description:: An interview/narrative of Lloyd Barnes's experiences whilst serving with the Royal Canadian Navy. Interview took place on March 21, 2013., ABSTRACT: 00.00-03.16 - Biographical and enlistment. 03.06-04.47 - Officer Cadet Training. Served on surface ships 1962 -1966 04.47-05.32 - Early submarine service with Royal Navy. return to Canada. Service on HMCS Objibwa 05.32-07.21 - Why submarines? HMCS Grisle. Submarine training in Canada. 07.21-11.35 - Life on submarines. 11.35-13.55 - Family life in service. 13.55-16.00 - Likes and dislikes of submarine service. Anecdote concerning a Captain. 16.00-28.11 - Role of submarines. ASW. HMCS Objibwa anecdote. Underwater look. 28.11-32.14 - ASW duties. Primary tasks of submarines. 32.14-36.37 - Naval relationship between Canada/USA. Capabilities of nuclear versus conventional submarines. 36.37-50.49 - Nuclear Submarine Project. CASAP. Operations Requirement Manager/Project Director for Submarine Project. Air Intake Propulsion Systems. Retirement. 50.49-54.20 - Arctic sovereignty. Nuclear submarine costs. American opposition to Canada having nuclear submarines. 54.20-1.03.00 - Events after retirement. Political decisions. Liberal Party attitudes. Future of Victoria class submarines. 1.03.00-1.21.01 - Public perceptions on use of submarines. Negative press reporting. 1.21.01-1.16.38 - Government and submarines. Foreign policy. 1.16.38-1.32.33 - Future of submarine service. Building submarines in Canada., Rank: Commander. , Interviewee: Barnes, Lloyd, 1940-, and Interviewer: Illsey, Ray
Subject:: Naval history, Canada. Royal Canadian Navy, and Military history
Contributor:: Illsey, Ray and Barnes, Lloyd, 1940-
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 2013-03-21
Rights Statement:: In Copyright - Educational Use Permitted
License:: This interview has been posted with the understanding that it may be used for research purposes only. Should the interviewee or their heirs have any objections to this interview being accessible on the Internet, it will be removed promptly. Contact UVic Special Collections for permission if using for other than research purposes: speccoll@uvic.ca
Resource Type:: http://purl.org/dc/dcmitype/Sound
Extent:: 1 sound recording (MP3)
Geographic Coverage:: British Columbia--Victoria
Coordinates:: 48.4359, -123.35155
Additional Physical Characteristics:: Original sound recording (MP3) also available.
Physical Repository:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Collection:: Canadian Military Oral History Collection
Provider:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Genre:: reminiscences, oral histories (literary genre), sound recordings, and interviews
Archival Item Identifier:: BL_784
Fonds Title:: Military oral history collection
Fonds Identifier:: SC141
Is_referenced_by:: Special Collections Finding Aid: https://search.archives.uvic.ca/military-oral-history-collection
Date Digitized:: 2013-03-25
Technical Note:: Digital sound recording in .mp3 format at 192 kbps and 44 kHz. Recorded in digital format by interviewer, technical and cataloguing metadata provided by JF and JP. Interview recorded in digital format for UVic Special Collections in 2013. Migration metadata by KD and MT.

656. Edwards, Murray: my Army recollections (March 22, 2013)

Title:: Edwards, Murray: my Army recollections (March 22, 2013)
Description:: An interview/narrative of Murray Edwards's experiences whilst serving with the Canadian Army. Interview took place on March 22, 2013., ABSTRACT: Interview with Major Murray Edwards focuses on his time with the Canadian army located in the Gaza strip. He speaks primarily to the biases found in United Nations missions such as his. He also outlines the issues with bias such as political alliances and the affect they have on the preparation of soldiers before deployment. 00:00-00:20 - Introduction 00:20-07:22 - Basic personal information: name, background, anecdote about father,enlistment age, awards 07:23-15:40 - Preparation for deployment to the middle east 15:41-20:10 - Deployment: Stationing, interaction with other countries delegates 20:12-29:05 - Interaction with the United Nations, orders, protocols 29:06-23:30 - Duties, Day-to-Day activities 23:31-43:45 - Spare time, interactions with civilians 43:46-47:45 - Source of the tension, ethnic, historical. 47:46-52:58 - Canadian participation and its worth 52:58-53:25 - Conclusion Suggested Clip(s) for Archive: 21:17-23:32 Anecdote: Bugging of United Nations headquarters by the Israeli government. 29:16-30:54 Anecdote: the Media and censorship regarding brutalities within Israel., Rank: Major. Medals and Honours: Canadian Forces Decoration, Interviewer: Bond, Celeste, and Interviewee: Edwards, Murray Campbell, 1920-
Subject:: Armed Forces--Military life, United Nations, and Military history
Contributor:: Edwards, Murray Campbell, 1920- and Bond, Celeste
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 2013-03-22
Rights Statement:: In Copyright - Educational Use Permitted
License:: This interview has been posted with the understanding that it may be used for research purposes only. Should the interviewee or their heirs have any objections to this interview being accessible on the Internet, it will be removed promptly. Contact UVic Special Collections for permission if using for other than research purposes: speccoll@uvic.ca
Resource Type:: http://purl.org/dc/dcmitype/Sound
Extent:: 1 sound recording (MP3)
Geographic Coverage:: Gaza Strip--Gaza
Coordinates:: 31.50161, 34.46672
Additional Physical Characteristics:: Original sound recording (MP3) also available.
Physical Repository:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Collection:: Canadian Military Oral History Collection
Provider:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Genre:: reminiscences, sound recordings, oral histories (literary genre), and interviews
Archival Item Identifier:: EM_773
Fonds Title:: Military oral history collection
Fonds Identifier:: SC141
Is_referenced_by:: Special Collections Finding Aid: https://search.archives.uvic.ca/military-oral-history-collection
Date Digitized:: 2013-03-24
Technical Note:: Digital sound recording in .mp3 format at 192 kbps and 44 kHz. Recorded in digital format by interviewer, technical and cataloguing metadata provided by JF and JP. Interview recorded in digital format for UVic Special Collections in 2013. Migration metadata by KD and MT.

657. Caven, Ronald: my United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus recollections (March 23, 2013)

Title:: Caven, Ronald: my United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus recollections (March 23, 2013)
Description:: An interview/narrative of Ron Caven's experiences whilst serving with the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus. Interview took place on March 23, 2013., ABSTRACT: Ron Caven's experience during his four tours in Cyprus as part of UNFICYP. Hebegan as a rifleman then an electrician and a transport leader in the pioneer platoon. He participated in patrolling the Green Line and also fixed things around the camps. He also voluntarily brought aid to the refugees. He befriended a Cypriot family who into refuge and details some of his companionship. Duties are discussed and his overall experience. He was involved in one major incident on the Green Line where they had to use a show of force. Overall, the interview focuses on the everyday activity and experience in Cyprus. At the end, he evaluates whether or not the mandate and mission was successful. 00.00-01.25: Introduction 01.25-01.52: Joining the Army 01.52-03.10: Places Served and Training (Toronto, Calgary, Cyprus, Victoria, Wainwright,Victoria, Norway, The US, Germany, Gagetown) 03.10-03.53: Background in the Army, Infantry, Queen's Own Rifles, PPCLI 03.53-04.12: Preparation for Cyprus 04.12-05.13: Duties in Cyprus (Rifleman) 05.13-05:38: Specialized Training and Exercises 05.38-06.53: Explanation of situation in Cyprus and dates served/ 06.53-08:03: Initial thoughts of Cyprus 08.03-10.42: Explanation of Green Line and Experience Patrolling the Green Line 10.42-12.19: Duties in Cyprus (Pioneer Platoon, Electrician) 12.19-12.39: Duties in Cyprus (Platoon Sergeant of the Pioneer Platoon) 12.39-13.27: Duties in Cyprus (Pioneer Platoon, Transport) 13.27-14.54: Relations with the Locals (Greek and Turkish Cypriots) 14.54-16.15: Learning the language 16.15-16.51: Most important duty, rifleman 16.51-18.58: Preventing Violence between the two sides 18.58-19.35: Rules of Engagement and Mandate 19.35-20.06: Current Events in Cyprus and Cyprus economy during the tours 20.06-20.45: Other countries in Cyprus and Division of the Island 20.45-21.36: Interaction and Exchange with the other contingents 21.36-22.17: Political Climate (changed after 1974) 22.17-25.25: Relationship with a Greek family and providing aid to refugees 25.25-27.06: Looking at pictures of the Greek family, looking through pictures 27.06-27.51: Explanation of Greek tradition for when guests are at the house 27.51-28.21: Keeping in touch with the Greek family 28.21-29.24: Refugees and Volunteering Aid 29.24-30.23: Explanation of doing four tours 30.23-34.39: Conclusion and Evaluation of Cyprus Suggested Clip(s) for Archive: 16.51-18.58: Preventing violence between the two sides. Turks firing into a Greek village to create an incident and dropping water barrels to sound like explosions. Commander at the time decided to show a show of force, including APCs and mortars. 20.45-21 .36: Interaction and Exchange with the other contingents. Spent a month with the English and the English would send a platoon to the Canadians, trade duties. It was an exchange program. 22.17-25.25: Met a Greek family through an electrician. Corresponded every year and every tour after his second tour they would get together. In 1974 the Greek's village had been overrun and Ron Caven had not heard from them in awhile. The family had fled to a refugee camp in the mountains. It took a month and a half to find them. They had lost everything. Plan to bring supplies every Saturday to the mountains for the refugee camps. Would spend the day with the Greek family he knew while the food was unloaded, they would receive wine as a thank you., Interviewer: Dunn, Kymberly, and Interviewee: Caven, Ronald Barry, 1948-
Subject:: United Nations, Military history, and United Nations. Peace-Keeping Force in Cyprus
Contributor:: Dunn, Kymberly and Caven, Ronald Barry, 1948-
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 2013-03-23
Rights Statement:: In Copyright - Educational Use Permitted
License:: This interview has been posted with the understanding that it may be used for research purposes only. Should the interviewee or their heirs have any objections to this interview being accessible on the Internet, it will be removed promptly. Contact UVic Special Collections for permission if using for other than research purposes: speccoll@uvic.ca
Resource Type:: http://purl.org/dc/dcmitype/Sound
Extent:: 1 sound recording (MP3)
Geographic Coverage:: Germany and British Columbia--Victoria
Coordinates:: 51.5, 10.5 and 48.4359, -123.35155
Additional Physical Characteristics:: Original sound recording (MP3) also available.
Physical Repository:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Collection:: Canadian Military Oral History Collection
Provider:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Genre:: interviews, oral histories (literary genre), sound recordings, and reminiscences
Archival Item Identifier:: CR_775
Fonds Title:: Military oral history collection
Fonds Identifier:: SC141
Is_referenced_by:: Special Collections Finding Aid: https://search.archives.uvic.ca/military-oral-history-collection
Date Digitized:: 2013-03-23
Technical Note:: Digital sound recording in .mp3 format at 192 kbps and 44 kHz. Recorded in digital format by interviewer, technical and cataloguing metadata provided by JF and JP. Interview recorded in digital format for UVic Special Collections in 2013. Migration metadata by KD and MT.

658. Thornton, Graham: my United Nations Military Observer recollections (March 25, 2013)

Title:: Thornton, Graham: my United Nations Military Observer recollections (March 25, 2013)
Description:: Rank: Lieutenant Colonel. Medals and Honours: General Service Medal (Northern Ireland); South-West Asia Service Medal; NATO Service Medal; Canadian Forces Peacekeeping Medal; United Nations Protection Force Medal; Canadian Forces Decoration, ABSTRACT: Lieutenant Colonel Graham Thornton's interview focuses exclusively on his tour as a United Nations Military Observer in Bosnia and Croatia from July 1994-July 1995. Beginning with his military training during childhood, he goes on to recount his experiences in Bosnia and Croatia. He discusses the training and equipment he received before deployment, being taken as a hostage in Bosnia, his day to day duties gathering intelligence for military use, helping evacuate the Serbian Krajina when it was invaded by Croat forces, being caught in a fire fight, and working alongside UNMOs from multiple different nations. He describes what his group did to help refugees, what the setup and command structure of his unit was like, how he went about his job, the use of translators, and the importance of proper training for carrying out missions. He also reflects on his experiences with ethnic cleansings and other problems associated with ethnicity in the region. Finally, he covers his use of news media to get word of what was happening in Bosnia and Croatia out to the world, and discusses what living conditions were like for UNMOs deployed at the time. 0:00-Introduction 0:30-Childhood, Decision to join the army, Training 2:20-Deployment to Bosnia, reflections on length of tour 3:40-Training before and after deployment to Bosnia 7:15-Equipment 8:42-Taken hostage by Bosniaks 12:00-Role and duties of a United Nations Military Observer 13:30-Reflections on Peacekeeping vs. Peace Enforcement 19:20-Gathering Intelligence 21:40-Using intelligence and intelligence application to the Croat invasion of the Serbian Krajina 25:04-Assisting flight of Serbian refugees from Krajina 28:28-UNMOE Rules of Engagement vs. UN Rules of Engagement 29:00-Working with different nations and different experience levels 32:45-Trapped in a firefight 37:45-The "Sixth Sense" and Situational Awareness-Anecdote 40:00-Scott Grady 42:55-Other peacekeeping duties, humanitarian aid and refugee camps 45:25-Setup and command structure of unit 48:30-Regular methods of gathering information 50:10-Working with translators 54:07-Experience as a Senior UNMO during Krajina invasion 57:00-Ethnic cleansing anecdotes 59:00-Digression on nations and respective affectivity 1:01 :00-Feelings on UN peacekeeping efforts compared to NATO 1:11 :00-Reflections on ethnicities 1:15:20-Conditions in Sarajevo 1:16:00-Dealing with warring factions 1:18:00-Black Swans, Mujahedeen, other paramilitary groups 1:20:30-Ethnic hatred among civilians 1:22:40-Experiences with ethnic cleansing-Croatian air force strike, mass graves 1:27:32-Use of news media 1:31:14-Living Conditions for UNMOs 1:39:20-Weather Dangers 1:40:07-"Down Time" 1:42:00-Conclusion Suggested Clip(s) for Archive: 8:42-12:00-Taken hostage by Bosniaks 21:40-28:28-Croatian invasion of Krajina, helping refugees 40:00-42:55-Rescue of Captain Scott Grady 57:06-59:00-Ethnic cleansing anecdote: mined graveyards 1:01:00-1:11:00-Comparing UN and NATO efforts and effectiveness in Bosnia 1:22:40-1 :27:32-Experiences with ethnic cleansing, Interviewer: Reynoldson, Courtney, An interview/narrative of Graham Thornton's experiences whilst serving as a United Nations Military Observer in Bosnia and Croatia. Interview took place on March 25, 2013., and Interviewee: Thornton, Graham, 1951-
Subject:: United Nations, Military history, and Personal narratives--Canadian
Contributor:: Reynoldson, Courtney and Thornton, Graham, 1951-
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 2013-03-25
Rights Statement:: In Copyright - Educational Use Permitted
License:: This interview has been posted with the understanding that it may be used for research purposes only. Should the interviewee or their heirs have any objections to this interview being accessible on the Internet, it will be removed promptly. Contact UVic Special Collections for permission if using for other than research purposes: speccoll@uvic.ca
Resource Type:: http://purl.org/dc/dcmitype/Sound
Extent:: 1 sound recording (MP3)
Geographic Coverage:: Bosnia and Herzegovina--Sarajevo and Northern Ireland
Coordinates:: 43.84864, 18.35644 and 54.5, -6.5
Additional Physical Characteristics:: Original sound recording (AIFF) also available.
Physical Repository:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Collection:: Canadian Military Oral History Collection
Provider:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Genre:: interviews, oral histories (literary genre), reminiscences, and sound recordings
Archival Item Identifier:: TG_795
Fonds Title:: Military oral history collection
Fonds Identifier:: SC141
Is_referenced_by:: Special Collections Finding Aid: https://search.archives.uvic.ca/military-oral-history-collection
Date Digitized:: 2013-03-27
Technical Note:: Digital sound recording in .mp3 format at 56 kbps and 44 kHz. Recorded in digital format by interviewer, technical and cataloguing metadata provided by JF and JP. Interview recorded in digital format for UVic Special Collections in 2013. Migration metadata by KD and MT.

659. Quealey, Patrick: my Stabilization Force recollections (April 4, 2013)

Title:: Quealey, Patrick: my Stabilization Force recollections (April 4, 2013)
Description:: Interviewee: Quealey, Patrick B., 1970-, An interview/narrative of Patrick Quealey's experiences whilst serving with the NATO Stabilization Force in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Interview took place on April 4, 2013., Interviewer: Reynoldson, Courtney, ABSTRACT: Lieutenant Colonel Patrick Quealey speaks about his experiences in Bosnia as part of the UNPROFOR mission and the SFOR mission. He discusses his decision to join the army, his training and the setup of his battle group, the training and equipment they received before shipping out for Bosnia, and his experiences upon arriving at his stationing. LCol Quealey reflects on how his group dealt with each belligerent force and tells several anecdotes about his experiences serving in one of the UN Safe Areas, Gorazde. He also discusses his Rules of Engagement and the UN peacekeeping mandate he served under. He goes on to discuss his duties in getting aid into Sarajevo and his stationing in Gorazde. He then reflects on his experiences with civilians in the area and his exposure to ethnic cleansings. He closes with a recap of his experience in Bosnia almost a decade later, this time as part of NATO's Stabilization Force, and the differences between the two tours. 0:00 - Introduction 0:26 - Decision to join the army 3:02 - Assignment after graduation, deployment to Bosnia 3:42 - Training experience and equipment, command structure 11 :08 - First impressions as a peacekeeper in Bosnia 11:40 - Digression on set up of ranks and companies 13:26 - Peacekeeping in Bosnia 16:20 - Taking over observation posts from the Malaysian unit 21:29 - Dealing with belligerent forces 24:39 - Assignment to Gorazde 28:05 - Movement through Serb territory 29:20 - Arrival and experience in Gorazde 31:50 - Humanitarian aid and dangers in Sarajevo - anecdote 33:10 - Reflections on gunfire 33:50 - Engagement in Gorazde, other dangers in the area 43:00 - Command structure 44:06 - Problems with UN Rules of Engagement 48:30 - Considerations regarding applying the term peacekeeping 50:55 - Escorting humanitarian aid to Sarajevo 53:00 - Duties in Gorazde 55:30 - Interactions with civilians 1:00:15 - Experience with ethnic hatreds and ethnic cleansing 1:01:30 - Feelings on UN peacekeeping efforts 1 :02:29 - Experiences serving in SFOR 1:06:00 - Finding war criminals 1:08:56 - Ethnic tensions while serving with NATO, crime rates 1:12:00 - Conclusion Suggested Clip(s) for Archive: 21:29 - 24:39 - Experiences with warring sides 29:20 - 33:10 - Arrival in Gorazde, evidence of ethnic cleansing, shooting in Sarajevo 33:50 - 43:00 - Coming under fire and other dangers experienced in Gorazde 44:06 - 48:30 - Problems with Rules of Engagement 1:01:30 - 1:02:29 - Feelings on overall UN peacekeeping efforts 1:08:56 - 1:12:00 - Ethnic tensions while serving with NATO, noticeable changes between UN and NATO missions, and Rank: Lieutenant Colonel. Medals and Honours: Canadian Forces Decoration; Canadian Peacekeeping Service Medal; NATO Medal; United Nations Protection Force Medal
Subject:: United Nations, United Nations Protection Force, and Military history
Contributor:: Quealey, Patrick B., 1970- and Reynoldson, Courtney
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 2013-04-04
Rights Statement:: In Copyright - Educational Use Permitted
License:: This interview has been posted with the understanding that it may be used for research purposes only. Should the interviewee or their heirs have any objections to this interview being accessible on the Internet, it will be removed promptly. Contact UVic Special Collections for permission if using for other than research purposes: speccoll@uvic.ca
Resource Type:: http://purl.org/dc/dcmitype/Sound
Extent:: 1 sound recording (MP3)
Geographic Coverage:: Bosnia and Herzegovina--Sarajevo
Coordinates:: 43.84864, 18.35644
Additional Physical Characteristics:: Original sound recording (AIFF) also available.
Physical Repository:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Collection:: Canadian Military Oral History Collection
Provider:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Genre:: reminiscences, sound recordings, interviews, and oral histories (literary genre)
Archival Item Identifier:: QP_794
Fonds Title:: Military oral history collection
Fonds Identifier:: SC141
Is_referenced_by:: Special Collections Finding Aid: https://search.archives.uvic.ca/military-oral-history-collection
Date Digitized:: 2013-04-06
Technical Note:: Digital sound recording in .mp3 format at 56 kbps and 44 kHz. Recorded in digital format by interviewer, technical and cataloguing metadata provided by JF and JP. Interview recorded in digital format for UVic Special Collections in 2013. Migration metadata by KD and MT.

660. Irwin, Anne: my experience as an embedded anthropologist in Afghanistan, 2006 (March 5, 2014)

Title:: Irwin, Anne: my experience as an embedded anthropologist in Afghanistan, 2006 (March 5, 2014)
Description:: An interview/narrative of Anne Irwin's experience as an embedded anthropologist in Afghanistan. Interview took place on March 5, 2014., Interviewee: Irwin, Anne, ABSTRACT: Narrator: Irwin, Anne, b. 1954. Title: “My Experience as an Embedded Anthropologist in Afghanistan, 2006” Interviewer: Interviewed by Sarah Fitterer Extent 1 sound recording (MP3 or list other format) 2:13:01 (time length of interview), file size (kB) Interview Date and Location 5 March 2014, Sooke BC. Synopsis: Begins with background information on anthropology PhD research on 1PPCLI during 1990s. Field study opportunity at 1PPCLI’s Afghanistan deployment is discussed. Irwin’s preparation for the field study in Afghanistan is examined and its application in field is discussed. The pilot deployment and arrival in Kandahar in March 2006 is covered, including encounter with Col. Russell Williams, first meeting and acceptance with 1 PPCLI C Company outside the wire. Reminiscing over Capt. Nichola Goddard’s work during March deployment, inherent risks, discussion of nature of the conflict, and reflections on the first deployment in March. Reflections on the differences of the second deployment in May 2006, difficulties of research ethics. Discusses time and lifestyle at Kandahar Airfield, moving to Spin Boldak in July. Discusses participation in Operation Augustus, Sangin District Centre, suffering mortar and artillery attacks. Discusses participation in Operation Zahar, with 1 Canadian fatality, and the Battle of Seyyeden (part of Operation Jagra) on June 12 with two Canadian casualties. Greater focus on Operation Zahar, fatality of Tony Boneca and treatment of Taliban prisoner. Discusses her relationship with C Company, including role as a researcher. Discusses personal observations of hierarchy and social structure of the troops, including soldiers’ feelings towards senior command. Further examination of Irwin’s relationship with soldiers of C Company and observations of segregation and contention between troops. Discusses specific encounters with the Taliban. Discusses soldiers’ pre-patrol preparation and courage in field. Discusses soldiers’ decompression and memories of leaving Kandahar. Goes back to discuss the Battle of the White School on Aug 3, 2006. Discusses previous military experience and its effect on Irwin’s time in theatre. Discusses her experience returning home to Canada from Afghanistan. Reflects on the presence of media in theatre and its affect on Irwin’s work. Reflects on how the tour affected Irwin’s perception of the Canadian Forces in general. Time Log (0:00- 7:32): PhD Research and field study opportunity. (7:35-14:55). Arrival in Kandahar and meeting 1PPCLI C Company. (14:55-21:31). Reflections on pilot deployment in March (21:31- 25:04). Reflections on the differences of the second deployment in May 2006 (25:04- 27:59). Life at KAF; moving to FOB (28:00- 34:00). Augustus; Sangin District Centre; mortar and artillery attacks (34:29- 44:44). Operation Zahar and the Battle of Seyyeden (part of Operation Jagra) (45:50- 53:11). Detailed focus of above (54:08- 1:01:22). Relationship with C Company; role as a researcher (1:01:38- 1:08:40). Troop dynamic and soldiers’ feelings towards senior command (1:09:45- 1:17:30). Expansion on above (1:17:47- 1:22:23). Specific encounters with the Taliban (1:22:45- 1:28:29) Discusses soldiers’ pre-patrol preparation and courage in field. (1:28:40- 1:35:47) Leaving KAF; decompression (1:36:01- 1:43:00). Battle of the White School on Aug 3, 2006. (1:43:01- 1:46:58). Previous military experience (1:47:02-1:51:00). Her experience returning to Canada (1:51:07- 2:02:00). Presence of media in theatre and its affect on Irwin’s work (2:02:25- 2:10:45). Irwin’s perception of the Canadian Forces Suggested Clip(s) for Archive: (1:01:38- 1:08:40). Discusses personal observations of hierarchy and social structure of the troops, including soldiers’ feelings towards senior command (1:09:45- 1:17:30). Further examination of Irwin’s relationship with soldiers of C Company and observations of segregation and contention between troops Subject Key Words Spin Boldak; Col. Russell Williams; Camp Mirage; Ian Hope; 1 PPCLI; Charlie Company; Kandahar Airfield; Nichola Goddard; Wainwright; Infantry; research ethics; civilian; Operation Augustus; Lashkar Gah; Helmand; Tony Boneca; Operation Zahar; Panjwaii District; Christie Blatchford; the Taliban; Bill Fletcher; Battle of the White School, Battle of Seyyedin; Operation Jagra; Afghanistan; 8 Platoon., and Interviewer: Fitterer, Sarah
Subject:: Military history, Afghan Wars, and Personal narratives--Canadian
Contributor:: Irwin, Anne and Fitterer, Sarah
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 2014-03-05
Rights Statement:: In Copyright - Educational Use Permitted
License:: This interview has been posted with the understanding that it may be used for research purposes only. Should the interviewee or their heirs have any objections to this interview being accessible on the Internet, it will be removed promptly. Contact UVic Special Collections for permission if using for other than research purposes: speccoll@uvic.ca
Resource Type:: http://purl.org/dc/dcmitype/Sound
Extent:: 1 sound recording (MP3)
Geographic Coverage:: Afghanistan
Coordinates:: 33, 66
Additional Physical Characteristics:: Original sound recording (AIFF) also available.
Physical Repository:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Collection:: Canadian Military Oral History Collection
Provider:: University of Victoria (B.C.). Library
Genre:: interviews, sound recordings, oral histories (literary genre), and reminiscences
Archival Item Identifier:: IA_803
Fonds Title:: Military oral history collection
Fonds Identifier:: SC141
Is_referenced_by:: Special Collections Finding Aid: https://search.archives.uvic.ca/military-oral-history-collection
Date Digitized:: 2014-03-05
Technical Note:: Digital sound recording in .mp3 format at 128 kbps and 44 kHz. Recorded in digital format by interviewer, technical and cataloguing metadata provided by JF and JP. Interview recorded in digital format for UVic Special Collections in 2014. Migration metadata by KD and MT.