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)

661. Eichel, Scott: my Canadian Maritime Air Support experiences (March 7, 2014)

Title:: Eichel, Scott: my Canadian Maritime Air Support experiences (March 7, 2014)
Description:: Interviewer: Jezierski, Janel, Interviewee: Eichel, Scott, ABSTRACT: Narrator: Eichel, Scott Interviewer: Interviewed by Janel Jezierski Extent 1 sound recording (MP3 or list other format) file length: 53:36:750, file size: 88,900 (kB) Interview Date and Location 7 March 2014, Victoria BC. Synopsis: The interview starts with a brief exploration of Major General Eichel's background and enlistment. Next he discusses being recruited in Saskatoon as an air navigator/ radio officer. He talks about training and working in Comox with the P2V7 Naptunes, followed by pilot training a few years later. Next the narrative turns to a general discussion of typical Maritime operations, including SAR aid and equipment testing. At 5:28:00 the discussion turns to his role in Operation BRISK, which a military and scientific undertaking involving mapping high arctic surface and under-ice by correlating aircraft and submarine radar equipment. Next, he briefly returns to a discussion on Maritime Operations followed by a discussion on his role in introducing the CP-140 Aurora to the Canadian forces, and the aircraft's impact. This is followed by brief discussion on other technological advancements in areas such as communications. The narrative then turns to a discussion on his role in the First Gulf War and how it compared to his work throughout the rest of his career. Next, Eichel discusses some of the exercises he was involved in, especially with the US Navy. This leads to a discussion on the relationship between the air force and the navy, as well as his opinion on the unification of the forces in 1968. Finally, Eichel discusses the chasm between the public and the military. 0:00 - 5:28: Background, enlistment, early years as navigator, 407 Squadron Comox, Maritime Operations 5:28-10:56: Operation BRISK 10:56-16:56: Maritime Operations, Search and Rescue help, story of Russian Admiral 16:56-23:42: Introducing CP-140 Aurora and other technological advancements 23:42- 29:37: First Gulf War and comparison to other work 29:37- 37:05: Exercises, operations, cooperation and relationship with Canadian and US Navy 39:10-44:15: Unification, integration 44:15-48:20: women in the forces, impact of forces on his life 48:20- end: Chasm Suggested Clip(s) for Archive: 10:56-16:56: Maritime Operations, Search and Rescue help, story of Russian Admiral 16:56-23:42: Introducing CP-140 Aurora and other technological advancements 39:10-44:15: Unification, integration 48:20- end: Chasm Subject Key Words Maritime, CP-140 Aurora, Operation BRISK, First Gulf War, Canadian - American Maritime operations, Air force-Navy relationship, Unification, Radar, ASW, militarypublic relations, An interview/narrative of Major General Scott Eichel's experiences whilst serving with Canadian Maritime Air Support. Interview took place on March 7, 2014., and Rank: Major General.
Subject:: Military history, Sea control, Persian Gulf War (1991), and United States. Navy
Contributor:: Jezierski, Janel and Eichel, Scott
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 2014-03-07
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 and Middle East
Coordinates:: 33.13906, 35.85869 and 48.4359, -123.35155
Additional Physical Characteristics:: Original sound recording (M4A) 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:: ES_805
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:: 2014-03-07
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.

662. Conquist, Stefan: my experience with the National Support Element in Afghanistan, 2009-2010 (March 10, 2014)

Title:: Conquist, Stefan: my experience with the National Support Element in Afghanistan, 2009-2010 (March 10, 2014)
Description:: Interviewee: Conquist, Stefan, An interview/narrative of Stefan Conquist's experiences serving with the National Support Element in Afghanistan. Interview took place on March 10, 2014., ABSTRACT: Narrator: Stefan Conquist, b.1987. Title: “My Experience with the National Support Element in Afghanistan, 2009-2010.” Interviewer: Interviewed by Sarah Fitterer Interview Date and Location 10 & 17 March 2014, Victoria BC. Synopsis: (1:03- 4:20) Begins with Conquist’s reasons for joining the Canadian Reserve Forces. (4:23- 9:05): Discusses earlier training and reasons for volunteering for deployment, and the DAGing process. (9:22-17:40) Discusses his pre-deployment training (17:45-28:20) He moves on to discuss his deployment and initial days in Kandahar, including additional training. (28:35-36:57) He describes in greater detail living and working on KAF, including relationships with the ANSF and other members of the NATO coalition. (37:22- 42:53) He moves on to explain the places his FPP was responsible for, including Camp Nathan Smith, Mas’um Ghar, FOB Wilson. (42:54- 46:30) He briefly discusses an incident with a vehicle striking an explosive and related SOPs (46:32- 54:45) He moves on to discuss specific issues affecting Conquist’s job, such as the destruction of Tarnak Bridge and a volatile vehicle accident situation with ANP fatalities. (54:54- 1:03:05) He moves on to discuss his different duties as a LAV gunner and a dismounted soldier. (1:03:13-1:13:37). He discusses a casualty incident in January 2010 when he was on patrol in a LAV. (1:13:50-1:16:12). He goes back to discuss the first time he went on patrol outside the wire. (1:16: 25- 1:21:46) He moves on to discuss his role in doing recovery after the Dec 30 2009 IED strike that resulted in 5 Canadian casualties. (1:22:30- 1:27:02) Conquist continues on to discuss the relationship he had with his platoon, including senior commanders. (1:27:05-1:31:11) He goes on to discuss his relationship with members of the Regular Infantry. (1:31:18-1:33:35) He discusses the increase of American troops in Kandahar and how that influenced FPP’s role. (1:33:35-1:47:18) A conversation between interviewer and Conquist about existing discourse on Afghanistan and potential ‘lessons learned.’ (1:47:34-1:52:51) Conquist discusses his HLTA and his return to the theatre. (1:52:57- 1:58:28) He goes on to discuss the recreation he engaged in at KAF when off-patrol. (1:58:34- 2:05:24). Conquist then reflects on his final departure from Kandahar and decompression in Cyprus. (2:05:30- 2:15:33) He discusses his return home to Canada, including reintegrating with his reserve unit. (2:15: 39- 2:22:24) Conquist reflects on how his position towards the Canadian Forces has evolved and his overall evaluation of the mission to Afghanistan. (2:22:29 – 2:32.45): He offers a few final remarks, including the importance of a land army presence. Follow this synopsis with a short time log of the interview, including time codes and a single sentence describing individual topics that were discussed. For example: 0:00 – 2:35 – Growing up in Peterborough and his family’s reaction to enlistment. 2:35 – 7:00 – Training at Camp Borden, weapons training and deployment overseas. 7:05 – 15:00 – Life in Aldershot, England, anecdote about the civilians. 5:00 – 20:00 – Life on the frontlines, German Sniper attacks, D-Day, Caen. Suggested Clip(s) for Archive: Did any section of the interview stand out as being particularly remarkable and worth quoting or having transcribed? If so, provide the time code and a brief description. For example: 8:30 – 11:30 – Description of the attack on Carpiquet airfield. Subject Key Words General list of the topics covered in the interview – just the basics and keywords. Provide a list of names, places, organizations, campaigns, or other significant historical events discussed in the interview. For example: Canadian Reserve Forces; artillery; DAG; National Support Element; Force Protection Platoon; Nanuk RWS; Kandahar Airfield; Tarnak Farms; Suicide Vehicle Borne IED; Camp Nathan Smith; Mas’um Ghar; Dand District Centre; Sperwin Ghar; IED Dec 30 2009; ANP; FOB Wilson; LAVs; RG-31s. Quotes/Points to follow up on 1) 4 min in: “I have a great attachment with my unit, you know? I have a family here, a home here.” 2) 9:30ish: Force Protection Platoon: “has specific roles and responsibilities within the greater framework of the operation, and I had to not only learn these but I had to learn relevant skills which would allow me to help complete these, because to a certain degree, you don’t just join the Force Protection Platoon, you are going to be the Force Protection Platoon. So that involved me learning a lot of skills that I had no prior knowledge of.” (eg. light and medium machine guns, armoured vehicle gunnery, Remote weapons station) 3) 11: 45ish: Re the Nano RWS (newer system) “I had some serious misgivings about it as a weapons system in certain fundamental ways, and the training was important because it helped me get around what I think were shortcomings with the system at the time. It was a very new system and we were going to be the first unit to use it ever in an operational theatre.” 4) 13:12: Misgivings cont’d: the ballistic trajectory seriously different from further distances. Nano has a camera meaning you can only ever look where the weapon is pointing. You’re going to be looking up, the trajectory will be right, but you won’t be able to see the target. “As a modern soldier…you have to be accountable for every single bullet, even from something like a machine, so not seeing the target is unacceptable when you are in an armoured vehicle.” 5) 19mins: Start working the second you arrive- running around collecting kit before finding accommodation 6) 20:30ish: First days : “training actually doesn’t stop. You’re always brushing up on your skills when you have a spare chance, even when you’re in KAF, even when you’re overseas.” Such as IED-hunting. 7) 21:30ish: Inside wire: Was surprised at the size of KAF (including a sewage pond). Outside wire: the environment, loads of taxis (“under the Taliban, it was illegal to own a private vehicle unless you owned a business”). Big part of job was managing vehicle traffic (defensive and navigational) – looking for SVBIED. 8) 29:10: “We are the delivery crew…led us to work with a wide variety of people…for example, we made a lot of friends with RAF Airforce Security…” – made friends with people from different nations. “The hardest people to deal with, obviously, are the Afghan National Forces because they have a very different relationship to the country, the conflict, local communities and you can’t , as NSE, you’re not really building that same kind of relationship with the Afghan National Security Forces…as you are in the Provincial Reconstruction Team… or the Operational Mentor Liaison Teams…the NSE… I would say we were much closer to the other Allied forces than we were to the ANSF, but we still dealt with them quite frequently” both in and out of the wire. 9) 31:30ish: “Americans were heavily focused on heavy firepower – they had weapons that the Canadians didn’t have eg. automatic grenade launchers. “In our case, we were a little bit more limited in ammunition and a little bit more limited in weaponry, and so we didn’t shoot quite as often , but we focused on more differential training, like different contexts, we’re working on different tactics. We can’t, you know, blow the hell out of a single target constantly all day to reinforce how to use this weapons system, so we have to approach it from, I would say, slightly more creative angles, like attacking it with smoke, attacking it at different ranges, attacking it at concert with different ranges… we maybe don’t have as much as they do , so we’re forced to be a bit more creative with the way we apply it.” 10) 34:00ish “You’re basically spare labour” – when FPP wasn’t on patrol, but was in the base (eg. going out to meet a plane at 2am to load a broken vehicle onto it). “There are people who have much much harder times outside of the wire than that, but at KAF, you can almost always expect to get grab for this wrandom work and these random jobs, which is a little bit annoying sometimes because you want to focus on your main job, which is what you are there for… but that’s the nature of military operations…KAF also has a higher level of discipline…thre are people who will care considerably more about your dress and deportment, about how you’re marching, about how you conduct yourself, which means it’s a more uptight environment… and that can be a little annoying…it is still mission oriented… but it’s a little like living in garrison too…which you thought you would leave back in Canada… but these are relatively minor things.” 11) 40min: “There is only so much you can do with a Chinook, which is the entire reason why you have a supply and transportation division that’s based on the ground with armoured trucks and people like us, FP, to guard them. There were Chinooks…but they couldn’t quite replace what we could do.” – eg, moving a tank. 12) 41 min: “You’re entering an area of Panjwaii district that is way more dangerous, so this where you had to start being on your toes and we actually did strike…there was a vehicle in front of the convoy that struck a mine or a small explosive…and that was a big wake up call one day that this place is fundamentally different in character than the other places we’ve been to.” 13) Sperwin Ghar: “They faced attack very frequently…that is when you were really entering bandit country…which is sort of…the closest to there being a front line region in Kandahar. 14) 45ish: “We had a fairly quiet set of patrols.. we never got hit by an IEDs, that mine incident…is the only single thing where our vehicles took damage, we never came under any serious small arms fire, we basically managed to deliver almost everything we had generally on time and we avoided conflict whenever possible… we basically stay out of it if we don’t need to be a part of it… we can deliver what needs to be delivered without getting involved in a battle that will hold us up potentially for hours.” Credits engineer teams for their IED work, keeping convoys safe. 15) 53ins re: ANP accident with mass casaulity and what was going through his mind : “Thinking about my drills but also thinking about what’s going to happen next and how can I make that easier and this isjust an organizational thing…the way I approach problems, I really don’t want to get overwhelmed and it’s easy to get overwhelmed when you’re dealing with so many different things…just trying to basically plan it out while I’m trying to get my vehicle in the right place and letting …the driver… know what’s going on. Trying to basically marshal your thoughts in a specific order so you can apply your training in a relevant. That’s what I like to think I did.” 16) 1:07ish – re: performing first aid on a farmer who had hit an IED “You have to look at the situation and …where is he losing the most blood? Is he entering shock?... You have to think about the different issues facing the casualty and trying to deal with them in the most pertinent or immediate way with the tools you have…You don’t often think about it in a bigger, maybe holistic or spiritual sense when you’re on the ground because you really need to focus on what’s happening right and in that case, it’s a specific set of problems or issues and I gotta use my training as best as I can, and if I’m not confident that my training can take me further….it’s a giant team. It doesn’t end with your section, your crew or your platoon…in this case, it ended with an American helicopter picking up… I really wasn’t expecting that. I was always expecting to get shot at, which is something that didn’t ever end up happening, but then dealing with a specific casualty from an IED that was originally meant to be for us, it did feel a little bit weird. But ultimately, it is something thaty ou’re prepared to deal with…being at Kandahar Airfield…helped steel my resolve a bit because ne of the other things I had to do was do ramp ceremonies…if that casualty incident had happened right at the beginning of my tour, I bet it would have affected me much differently but it happened over half way through so it was different. 17) 1:15 – feelings before going out wire first time “I was happy I would be getting to do something that was… actually part of the front lines of the mission. A number of other members of my unit have been overseas many before me and a lot in combat positions, battlegroup positions. And although the FPP in the NSE is not the battlegroup, it’s not the combat position, it is out in the area of operations, you are getting to see things, you are dealing with the local population, you’re dealing with the battlegroup, you’re dealing with KAF for better or for worse and I knew that…that would make it… I would feel better about having a tour like that than a tour where I was just staying in one place or inside the wire the whole time and I didn’t get a chance to see those things.” 18) 1:19: “That was a really tense experience…it was really disconcerting because they had died in a LAV RWS, which was the vehicle we were using now and it became obvious, well the Taliban knows just how big, the insurgents know just what kind of IED they need to make to completely tear open one of our trucks, so we’re like, yeah maybe we should go back to the RG-31s, but no we kept using both.” 19) 1:23: “My relationship with the FPP was a positive one, and that positive relationship made the tour a lot better, it made it a lot more bearable in a lot of ways, and I definitely think it was a major factor to me looking back at the mission and my time there as positively as I do now…I think one of the neat things was I was the only artillery soldier in the entire platoon…we weren’t that common…as a result of this, I did have some unique knowledge which definitely interested him (the platoon commander McEwan) because I’m also an artillery technician and that can be relevant…Lt McEwan recognizes that we might need to actually call down an artillery fire (???) and of all the people in the platoon, I’m the only person who is actually formally trained to do that… He was interested in what I knew as a soldier and the unique qualities I could bring to the team…” 20) 1:27: Re: relationship with the Regular Infantry “There were two who stood out…one of them was a sergeant, the other one was a master-corporal…so they were both leaders within the platoon… I think I got along fairly well with them. They obviously have a different outlook in certain ways, it was a little bit difficult to get people who were normally used to working in the Reg force in a platoon almost entirely of Reservists, but I feel most of the friction they felt wasn’t between the troops and them, rather it was between them and the people above them, which is the reserve officer and the reserve platoon warrant officer… whatever issues I observed in that whole thing, it happened up there. Between the troops and them, generally speaking it worked out okay. I even managed to get one of them on my side because…I was able to help him out with a computer and he treated me a lot better after that and I’m very thankful for it… (when asked how treatment changed). Distant, I would say, distant. You do your job and stay out of their way, they’ll tell you what to do and stay out of your way, that’s how it is. Over the course of the tour, you can generate a much closer and much better working relationship where you actually about what people are doing and how they’re doing it so you can actually help them achieve their goal or make it easier for them…” 21) Mostly didn’t feel like the Reg forces didn’t have any negative prejudice towards them, which made their job easier. 22) Story about the Greek guy offering hospitality, cultural exchange etc 23) Look at 2hr 15: onwards about changing position towards the military and evaluation of mission to Afghanistan 24) 2 hr 31: for flip side of misgivings about weaponry 25) “It does make sense when you are there, perhaps more than at any other time.” 56:30 – phone call!, and Interviewer: Fitterer, Sarah
Subject:: Operation Overlord, Military history, and Afghan Wars
Contributor:: Fitterer, Sarah and Conquist, Stefan
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 2014-03-10
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 and British Columbia--Victoria
Coordinates:: 33, 66 and 48.4359, -123.35155
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:: CS_802
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:: 2014-03-10
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.

663. George, Robert Earl: my experience as a Canadian military attaché in Japan (March 10, 2014)

Title:: George, Robert Earl: my experience as a Canadian military attaché in Japan (March 10, 2014)
Description:: Interviewee: George, Robert Earl, Interviewer: Taylor, Sarah, Rank: Vice Admiral. , ABSTRACT: Narrator: George, Robert Earl, 1940-. Title My experience as a Canadian military attaché in Japan. Interviewer: Interviewed by Sarah Taylor. Extent 1 sound recording (AIFF Format Sound) 1:32:53, 939MB Interview Date and Location 10 March 2014, Oak Bay BC. Synopsis The interview begins with Vice Admiral George describing growing up in Vancouver, and his family history , followed by recollections of his time in the ROTP program and his reasons for enlisting. He describes his training in the ROTP program, which included pre fleet training in Halifax, followed by his first ship posting on HMCS Saskatchewan. Vice Admiral George then describes his subsequent postings including his work at the program generation centre for Iroquois class destroyers in Ottawa. He discusses being selected in 1979 to become the naval attaché in Japan and the language and photography training he underwent to prepare for the posting. Vice Admiral George then describes his experiences travelling and filing reports while in Japan as well his experience living in Japan and the role his spouse played in diplomatic events. He also details his post attaché career, which included postings as an Admiral on both the Pacific and Atlantic coasts. He describes the importance of building a long term relationship with the Japanese, as well as his interaction with Japanese civilians and the special trips arranged for attachés. Vice Admiral George also discusses the history of the Canadian embassy in Japan, the safety level while living in Japan, and whether any restrictions were placed on his ability to travel around Japan as an attaché. He concludes by outlining the responsibilities and the importance of the Canadian military attaché in Japan and reflects on his relationship with the home country’s liaisons. Log 0:00 – 17:43 – Introduction, description of early life, family history, ROTP program, reasons for enlisting, and training. 17:44 – 24:59 – First posting to ship on HMCS Saskatchewan, and subsequent postings. 25:00 – 27:59 – Postings at program generation centre for Iroquois class destroyers in Ottawa, Executive Officer of HMCS Skeena. 28:00 - 31:43 - Comparison of ship systems being designed and existing systems. 31:44 - 37:32- Becoming a naval attaché including annual assessment, and training. 37:33 – 43:58 - Travelling and reporting while in Japan. 43:59-51:14 - Life in Japan, role of spouse in visits, concerns about the effect the attaché position might have on future career and maintaining relationship with Japan. 51:15 – 54:57 - Description of postings after Japan including posting as Admiral on Pacific then Atlantic coast, and long term relationship with the Japanese. 54:58 – 1:11:28 - Interactions with civilians in Japan, description of additional attaché duties and background information about becoming a naval attaché. 1:11:29 – 1:21:05– Discussion of civilians working at the embassy including history of embassy, comparison of civilian and attaché duties, the safety level of living in Japan, and special permissions for travelling. 1:21:06 -1:29:13 - Responsibilities of Canadian attaché in Japan, and the importance of the role of the Canadian attaché in Japan. 1:29:14 – 1:32:53 - Treatment by home country liaisons and conclusion, signing of release form. Suggested Clip(s) for Archive: 27:42 – 31:43 - Work on developing and designing new computer system. 1:27:13 – 1:29:13 – Description of the importance of the role of the Canadian Forces Attaché in Japan. Subject Key Words Canadian Forces attaché, Canadian naval attaché, HMCS Saskatchewan, ROTP program, pre fleet training, program generation centre for Iroquois class destroyers, Japan, Japanese civilians, interaction with; Canadian embassy in Japan, Sado Islands, travelling in Japan, civilian employees at Canadian embassy, military attaché, duties of; military attaché, importance of., and An interview/narrative of Vice Admiral Robert Earl George's experience as a Canadian military attaché in Japan. Interview took place on March 10, 2014.
Subject:: Personal narratives--Canadian, Naval history, and Military history
Contributor:: Taylor, Sarah and George, Robert Earl
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 2014-03-10
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:: Japan
Coordinates:: 35.68536, 139.75309
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:: oral histories (literary genre), sound recordings, reminiscences, and interviews
Archival Item Identifier:: GRE_810
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:: 2014-03-10
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.

664. Berger-North, David V.: my Air Force training experience (March 11, 2014)

Title:: Berger-North, David V.: my Air Force training experience (March 11, 2014)
Description:: Interviewer: Fast, Benjamin, ABSTRACT: Narrator: Berger-North, David V. “Badger,” 1936-. Captain (RCAF) Flight Lieutenant (RAF) Title: My Air Force Training Experience Interviewer: Interviewed by Benjamin Fast. Extent: 1 sound recording (MP3 format) 1:43:16, 104 MB (file size) Interview Date and Location: 11 March 2014, Victoria, BC. Synopsis: The interview begins with standard interview narratives and an explanation of the Capt. Berger-North’s nickname and rank. He then goes on to describe his experience as a compulsory cadet in the UK and his family’s army history. The interview then moves on to childhood experiences in the Second World War up to the beginning of his national service. Capt. Berger-North then outlines his goals of becoming an architect before describing his enlistment experience and officer training. He also explains why he was trained in Canada. He then recounts his first training experiences and explains the RAF aircrew entry requirements. The interview then discusses friendships made in training and how he ended up in a successful career contrary to his earlier life goals. Capt. Berger-North then discusses RAF training in Canada compared to the UK and includes some anecdotes about instructors. He then describes cease-training rates and the difference in training today. Capt. Berger-North then describes his expectation of life after training and how his career changed to bombers. The interview then moves on to discuss combat expectations and experiences before covering training accidents and the impact of witnessing death. Capt. Berger-North then theorizes about the differences in training by nation and decade before discussing living conditions in Canada and meeting his wife while in training. He then recounts how his own struggles in training led to success as an instructor with the RCAF before recounting anecdotes about international trainees. The interview then moves on to discuss training effectiveness through the decades and personal anecdotes from his military service. The interview concludes with a comparison of RAF and RCAF training and discussing the future of military aviation training. 0:00 – standard interview narratives 0:13 – Spelling of name and explanation of his nickname 1:09 – explanation of RAF and RCAF ranks received, basic summary of life in military 2:23 – interest in military as a student and member of the compulsory cadet system in the UK, family military history 3:30 – flying scholarship and early flying experiences with the cadets 5:00 – beginning of national service 5:18 – experiences watching Second World War dogfights over South East England (Maidstone) as a child 6:58 – reality compared to movies about war, contrails all over the sky and hearing the German airplanes 8:32 – life between the Second World War and his enlistment in 1951, not much changed after the war 9:53 – explanation of compulsory National Service 10:11 – description of life after school, employment with the Motor Vehicle Licence Branch 11:12 – family reaction to enlisting with the air force 11:34 – goals of attending university for architecture, and details of interest in art as “escapism” 12:46 – enlisting experience at Cardington, aircrew selection at Hornchurch, officer training at Kirton Lindsey 14:18 – Explanation of reasons for training in Canada 15:42 – explanation of RAF entry requirements 16:42 – travel to Canada 17:08 – first experiences in Canada, discussion about international pilots in NATO training system, differences between UK and North America 18:03 – Sent to Penhold for Course 5504, basic training on Harvards 18:34 – Entry examination and what was required for RAF entry 19:51 – discussion of friends in training and how they still keep in contact, other friends who enlisted at the same time went on to other careers by staying in the RAF 22:13 – discussion of how he ended up in a successful military career, despite having other career goals 23:25 – discussion of RAF training in Canada, moving from Harvards to T-33 jet trainers, getting wings 24:45 – Discussion of quality of training in Canada compared to training in the UK 25:50 – discussion about learning self-confidence and cease-training rates, especially on the Harvard 26:54 – anecdote about difficulty with some instructors, comparison between Harvard and T-33 trainers 28:03 – discussion about cease-training rate and how it is different today because of financial investments 28:50 – importance of previous flying experience in succeeding in training, anecdote about other trainees and why they didn’t pass training 30:15 – pay was not a factor for choosing RAF 31:13 – talk about ground school training and the difficulty of adjusting to classroom learning in Penhold, AB 34:12 – expectations of career after training, flying experiences in the RAF 35:32 – talk about being forced onto bomber crews because of Javelin losses, discussion of deaths in other early jet aircraft 37:34 – disappointment in not flying Javelins (advanced jet fighters), anecdote about conversion to Canberras and positive outcome of change in career, experience of active service with the RAF 39:53 – flying activities in Libya and talk about the combat life of a Cold War Warrior during a time of constant conflict around the world 42:01 – expectations of getting in combat after the Second World War 42:55 – anecdotes about accidents in training both in RAF training and in later RCAF career 43:29 – anecdote about his own dangerous flying situations while in the RAF, and how he coped with accidents 43:38 – anecdote about seeing his first accident as an Air Traffic Controller in Cold Lake, AB. 49:30 – theorizes about difference in accidents between Harvard and jet training with anecdote about three accidents in one lunch hour because of the busy training bases 51:37 – the impact of witnessing death 52:59 – difference between American and British/Canadian training 56:12 – theorizing about superiority of training in 1950’s 58:07 – living conditions and life in Canada 59:15 – anecdote of meeting his future wife in Red Deer 1:02:07 – life outside of training in Canada, reaction to the weather in Alberta 1:04:58 – difficulties with instructors and anecdote about one good instructor 1:07:17 – issues learning to fly helped future career as an instructor 1:09:00 – group dynamic among international NATO trainees including suicides among Turkish officers 1:12:28 – age of pilots 1:13:28 – motivation in training and theorizing about poor university student pilot performance 1:55:55 – anecdotes about student crashes, 1967-1972 1:18:19 – feelings about instructing and later career 1:21:07 – training prepared well for later career 1:23:26 – the growing importance of money in training 1:24:33 – continued friendships from training from RAF and RCAF 1:28:25 – differences between training and active service 1:29:22 – anecdote about crash landing 1:31:42 – future training, conversion experiences 1:34:05 – discussion about better flight qualification system in RAF than RCAF 1:36:21 – showing gliding certificate and connection with early British aviator 1:38:33 – final additions regarding changes in training and the future impact on aviation of not having military training, too heavy reliance on technology and not basic flight principles 1:41:55 – Interview conclusion and standard interview narrative (with form signing) Interview ends. Suggested Clips for Archive: 23:25-25:50 – discussion about RAF training and how training in Canada provided better learning opportunities. 25:50-26:54 – anecdotes about experience on the Harvard trainer 43:38-49:07 – anecdote about seeing his first accidents as an Air Traffic Controller in Cold Lake, AB. 59:15-1:04:51 – anecdote of meeting his future wife and decision to leave the RAF and move to Canada 1:09:00-1:12:27 – anecdotes about international pilots 1:29:22-1:31:42 – anecdote about crash landing Subject Key Words: Royal Air Force, RAF, Royal Canadian Air Force, RCAF, Nicknames, England, Penhold, Portage la Prairie, Maidstone, Canberra, Bomber, Jet, Aircraft, Meteor, Casualties, Accidents, Tutor, Training Comparisons, Training, Motivation, Age, NATO, Turkish Pilots, International Training, Cold War, Libya, Mediterranean, Harvard, T-33, Air Traffic Control, Flight Instructor, Cadets, National Service, Cold Lake, Romance, Crashes, Kirton Lindsey, Canada, Entry Examinations, Education., Rank: Captain. , Interviewee: Berger-North, David V., and An interview/narrative of Captain David V. Berger-North's training experiences with the Royal Canadian Air Force. Interview took place on March 11, 2014.
Subject:: Canada. Royal Canadian Air Force, Military history, Military cadets, and Cold War (1945-1989)
Contributor:: Fast, Benjamin and Berger-North, David V.
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 2014-03-11
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:: England and British Columbia--Victoria
Coordinates:: 48.4359, -123.35155 and 52.16045, -0.70312
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, interviews, reminiscences, and oral histories (literary genre)
Archival Item Identifier:: BND_799
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:: 2014-04-03
Technical Note:: Digital sound recording in .mp3 format at 141 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.

665. Kerr, Nick: my PPCLI experience in Afghanistan, 2006 (March 12, 2014)

Title:: Kerr, Nick: my PPCLI experience in Afghanistan, 2006 (March 12, 2014)
Description:: An interview/narrative of Nick Kerr's PPCLI experiences in Afghanistan. Interview took place on March 12, 2014., Interviewee: Kerr, Nick, Interviewer: Fitterer, Sarah, and ABSTRACT: Narrator: Nick Kerr, b.1981. Title: “My PPCLI Experience in Afghanistan, 2006.” Interviewer: Interviewed by Sarah Fitterer Extent 1 sound recording (MP3 or list other format) 2:27:55 (time length of interview), file size (kB) Interview Date and Location 12 March 2014, Victoria BC. Synopsis: Begins with Kerr’s reasons for joining the Canadian Infantry, notification of deployment, and pre-deployment preparation. Discusses Kerr’s day of deployment and initial days in KAF. Discusses Kerr’s orientation at KAF and types of tasks at Camp Nathan Smith in Kandahar City until May 2006, including interaction with local civilians. Reflects on specific memories during time at CNS, including vehicle accident with 2 Canadian fatalities and a suicide bomber. Discusses nature of tour by May 2006, Kerr’s HLTA, and changed nature of the tour upon return. Discusses moving to FOB Wilson and life on the base. Reflects on his first time outside the wire travelling to CNS and first patrol. Discusses the first time Kerr’s company came under fire for 10-15 hours in May 2006. Discusses the second operation Kerr was involved in with a firefight where Maj. Nichola Goddard died. Discusses following orders to drive into an ambush on the way to FOB Wilson. Discusses summer 2006 when B Company was left to secure Panjwaii and Zharey districts. Discusses personal observations of Taliban tactics. Describes a specific mortar attack on FOB Wilson towards the end of the tour. Discusses his participation in the Battle of the White School on Aug 3 2006, with multiple Canadian fatalities. Reflects on proficiency of Maj. Nick Grimshaw as company leader. Discusses 1PPCLI receiving the Commander-in-Chief Commendation for TF 1-06 tour. Discusses his perception of the media during the tour. Discusses his company’s relationship with ANSF organizations. Discusses the post-patrol routine and recreation. Discusses leaving the Afghanistan theatre and going to Cyprus. Discusses his days in Cyprus, including decompression meetings. Discusses his return home to Canada. Discusses the affects that the tour had on Kerr’s perceptions towards the Canadian military. Final comments. Time Log (1:41-17:07). Reasons for joining military and pre-deployment training. (17:11- 27:21). Kerr’s deployment and initial days in KAF (27:34- 34:55). Kerr’s orientation and tasks until May 2006. (34:56- 39:47). Specific situations during time at PRT (39:48- 42:35). HLTA and change in nature of the mission (42:36-50:47) FOB Wilson and life on the base (50:53-55:12). First time outside the wire (55:28-58:23) First time coming under Taliban fire in May 2006 (58:24- 1:01:27) Second time coming under fire, when Maj. Goddard died (1:01:28-1:08:17). Driving through planned ambush. (1:08:53-1:13: 52). Summer 2006 in the Panjwaii/Zharey district (1:14:11- 1:19:30). Personal observations of Taliban tactics (1:19:40-1:27:19). Specific mortar attack on FOB Wilson (1:27:45- 1:35:13) Battle of the White School on Aug. 3, 2006. (1:35:14-1:37:35). Reflections on Major Grimshaw (1:37:39- 1:44:20). Commander-in-Chief Commendation for TF 1-06’s tour. (1:44:33-1:49:02) Perception of media during tour (1:49:25- 1:50:50). Discusses ANSF organizations (1:51:00- 1:56:50) Post-patrol routine and recreation (1:57:15- 2:03:06) Leaving Kandahar (2:03:07-2:08:55). Decompression in Cyprus (2:09:00- 2:17:17). Return home to Canada. (2:17:38-2:21: 35). Kerr’s perception of the military. (2:21:36- 2:25:50) Final comments Suggested Clip(s) for Archive: (1:01:28-1:08:17). Driving through planned ambush. (1:19:40-1:27:19). Specific mortar attack on FOB Wilson Subject Key Words Shiloh, Manitoba; 2PPCLI B Company; “Wild Wild West”; Afghanistan; 5 Platoon; Camp Mirage; Kandahar City; Camp Nathan Smith; Taliban; Patricias; Master Corporal Timothy Wilson; Corporal Paul Davis; FOB Wilson; Ambush Alley; Nichola Goddard; Sergeant Tower; mortar attacks; Battle of White School; Major Nick Grimshaw; Lieutenant-Colonel Ian Hope; Commander-in-Chief Commendation
Subject:: Afghan Wars, Personal narratives--Canadian, and Military history
Contributor:: Fitterer, Sarah and Kerr, Nick
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 2014-03-12
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 and British Columbia--Victoria
Coordinates:: 33, 66 and 48.4359, -123.35155
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:: sound recordings, reminiscences, interviews, and oral histories (literary genre)
Archival Item Identifier:: KN_804
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:: 2014-03-12
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.

666. Lake, Peter: my Second World War Air Force experience (March 12, 2014)

Title:: Lake, Peter: my Second World War Air Force experience (March 12, 2014)
Description:: Interviewee: Lake, Peter, An interview/narrative of Warrant Officer Peter Lake's experiences with the Royal Canadian Air Force during World War II. Interview took place on March 12, 2014., Rank: Warrant Officer. , Interviewer: Fast, Benjamin, and ABSTRACT: Narrator: Lake, Peter, 1920- Warrant Officer (RAF) Title: My Second World War Air Force Experience Interviewer: Interviewed by Benjamin Fast. Extent: 1 sound recording (MP3 format) 1:33:22, 61.3 MB (file size) Interview Date and Location: 12 March 2014, Victoria, BC. Synopsis: The interview begins with the standard interview narratives and background information about WO Lake’s family. He discusses a wide range of topics* including having a well-travelled and difficult upbringing and life. The interview then moves on to his early RAF experiences and surviving a bombing raid. He then talks about his childhood experiences with military personnel in Borneo and England before discussing how his lack of education caused him to fail his pilot training. He then explains the training process for wireless operators and air gunners with anecdotes of both training and active service experiences interspersed. It is during this part of the interview that WO Lake theorizes about the treatment of non-commissioned personnel and the effectiveness of unequally ranked aircrew. WO Lake then moves on to recounting accidents he was part of or that he witnessed, what life was like while in training, and more anecdotes about active service in Benghazi. The interview ends with a discussion about the effectiveness of training and additional comments about the inequality of aircrews. 0:00 – standard interview narratives 0:46 – background on education and family financial difficulties 1:33 – biographical information and early childhood life 2:13 – learning the family history 4:05 – talking about the family’s history in the 18th Century 6:10 – discussion of difficult life 6:42 – survived being killed many times during the war, beginning of anecdote about the final near-death experience 7:43 – reasons for enlisting in September 1940 8:42 – acceptance and early aircrew training with the RAF 9:25 – anecdote about surviving a bombing raid in London and seeing the effects of war 12:35 – enlistment at Uxbridge in the RAF Volunteer Reserve 12:54 – discusses lack of interest in the military as a young man and childhood interactions with military personnel 15:03 – discusses lack of education and the difficulties of not having school qualifications 15:53 – mother’s reaction to his enlisting 16:42 – family experience in the First World War 19:32 – reasons for enlisting, feeling like a family protector 20:15 – anecdote about attempted German takeover of British North Borneo 21:34 – experience as a child interacting with an Australian sailor and other people who went on to military service. 24:32 – childhood experience visiting the HMS Hermes and how that affected his interest in aviation 25:20 – acceptance into pilot/navigator training, discusses first military training 26:18 – discusses how early training was learning mathematics required for flying and how he failed 26:53 – anecdote about interview with an officer which led to a change in training 28:10 – discusses training as a wireless operator 29:05 – theorizes that many wireless operators were failed pilot candidates 29:45 – anecdote about failing a Morse Code test 30:45 – discusses early radio training at RAF Yatesbury 31:42 – discusses gunnery training and theorizes that Canadian training was more comprehensive 32:25 – anecdotes about gunnery and wireless training experiences on the ground in the air 33:40 – discusses training at Felixstowe outstation and the effectiveness of ground training in combat situations 36:05 – description of operational flying in the Mediterranean 37:26 – encountering friends from past training while on active service 38:15 – return to Yatesbury for further flight training as a wireless operator, the start of keeping a log book 40:15 – further explanation of gunnery training 42:40 – comparing wireless and gunnery training experiences 43:27 – discusses choosing which aircraft to serve on at Turnberry, reasons for choosing Beauforts 44:44 – discusses casualty rates on Beauforts 45:10 – discusses only seeing accidents at Turnberry where final flight training took place, with anecdotes 46:56 – anecdote about avoiding accidents and finding a crew 47:54 – discussion of training at Turnberry 49:15 – anecdote of training flights with different pilots 51:50 – anecdote about accident on night solo flight 56:32 – anecdote about meeting a friend at Turnberry from his first pilot’s course and avoiding another accident 59:34 – anecdote about another near miss on active service 1:05:00 – Discussion about commissioned and non-commissioned aircrew 1:06:30 – anecdote about life outside of training and not having any money or holidays 1:08:10 – discussion about life at Felixstowe during the winter and contracting bronchitis 1:09:25 – anecdote about guard duty, chores and living conditions at Felixstowe 1:11:17 – anecdote about service in Benghazi 1:13:40 – anecdote about a near miss and saving aircrew in Benghazi accident 1:15:27 – Talks about how he is still affected by the noise of a Halifax bomber over his tent in Benghazi 1:19:10 – recounts that training as an air gunner did not adequately prepare him for the realities of war, and theorizes that training for Bomber Command was more effective and intensive 1:20:05 – discusses the importance of communication in aircrew and how commissioned personnel were treated better than him 1:24:30 – additional comments: discussion about inequality in aircrews with commissioned and non-commissioned personnel and the comparison to modern flight duties; additional family history and anecdote from time in Northern Rhodesia; strategy for air gunners in combat 1:32:07 – interview conclusion and standard interview narratives 1:33:22 – interview ends Suggested Clips for Archive: 32:25-33:17 – anecdote about training experiences in airplanes that smelled of airsickness 33:40-36:04 – discusses training at Felixstowe outstation and the effectiveness of ground training in combat situations 45:10-47:54 – discusses only seeing accidents at Turnberry where final flight training took place 51:50-56:32 – anecdote about accident on night solo flight 1:15:27-1:18:05 – Talks about how he is still affected by the noise of a Halifax bomber over his tent in Benghazi Subject Key Words: Royal Air Force, RAF, Benghazi, Bristol Beauforts, Bombers, Training, Aircrew, England, Casualties, Accidents, Near Misses, Enlistment Experiences, Mediterranean, Turnberry, Yatesbury, Felixstowe, Commissioned Officers, Aircrew Dynamics, Wireless Operator.
Subject:: Military history, World War (1939-1945), World War (1914-1918), and Canada. Royal Canadian Air Force
Contributor:: Fast, Benjamin and Lake, Peter
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 2014-03-12
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 and England
Coordinates:: 52.16045, -0.70312 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:: oral histories (literary genre), reminiscences, sound recordings, and interviews
Archival Item Identifier:: LP_801
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:: 2014-03-12
Technical Note:: Digital sound recording in .mp3 format at 91 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.

667. Matthews, Herbert: my Canadian Maritime Air Support experiences (March 12, 2014)

Title:: Matthews, Herbert: my Canadian Maritime Air Support experiences (March 12, 2014)
Description:: Interviewer: Jezierski, Janel, An interview/narrative of Lieutenant Herbert Matthews's experiences whilst serving with Canadian Maritime Air Support. Interview took place on March 12, 2014., Interviewee: Matthews, Herbert, Rank: Lieutenant. , and ABSTRACT: Narrator: Matthews, Herbert Title: The Value of Oral History Explored Through Canadian Maritime Air Support, 1941-1994 Interviewer: Interviewed by Janel Jezierski Extent 1 sound recording (MP3 or list other format) file length: 1:23:59, file size: 907,500 (kB) Interview Date and Location 12 March 2014, Victoria BC. Synopsis: The interview begins with some details on Lieutenant Matthews' background, including where he was born and growing up during the Depression. He then discusses his decision to enlist and his work prior to doing so. Next, Lt. Matthews describes his training experience and how he volunteered for Astro-Navigation school in Rivers, Manitoba. The narrative then turns to his travelling across Canada and oversees to Scotland where he is posted to Bomber Command. Next he discusses training for Bomber Command and joining 120 squadron in Silluth, Scotland. Lt. Matthews then describes his position as a navigator and trainer, including his tasks and their relevance to the war effort. At 30:25 Lt. Matthews begins a discussion on the Mid-Atlantic Air Gap and the measures taken to close it. He emphasizes the importance of U-Boat Suppression and gives his thoughts .on how crucial the Mark Ill Low Level Bombsights were to the war effort. Next, Lt. Matthews discusses the U-boat he and his men sunk that resulted in his obtaining a Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC). He then discusses how his responsibility for the death of the men on the U-boat affected him after the war, and how some of his friends experienced similar struggles. Next, Lt. Matthews describes the U-boat suppression and navigation that took up the rest of his time in Bomber Command, and the impact of U-boat technology advancements. Lt. Matthews then compares his experiences in bomber and coastal command. He also talks about his relationship with the other pilots in his squadron, who were of a variety of nationalities, and what they did for leisure. Next he discusses the overall effectiveness of his crew and elaborates on his thoughts about which factors were the most decisive in winning the Battle of the Atlantic. Then Lt. Matthews discusses factors that impacted the moral of his crew, and the level of contact he had with home during the war. Finally, the narrative turns to Lt. Matthews' post war training in the Bahamas, his life after the war, and the overall impact of the war on his life. 0:00- 1:27: Background, upbringing, education before enlistment 1:27- 9:30: Enlistment, Initial Training, Observer School Training 9:30- 14:35: Travel to Clyde, Scotland and start of kit-bag troubles 14:35- 19:45: Posting to Coastal Command, Astro-Navigation Training 19:45- 30:25 Bombing Command at 120 Squadron in Ireland, Reykjavik (Iceland) on Very Long Range Liberators (VLR), tasks as navigator, MET cards 30:25-40:00 Mid Atlantic Air Gap, U-Boat suppression, Mark Ill Low Level Bombsight, Leigh Light, Night attack 40:00 - 48:32: Mid-Atlantic Day attack, sinking the U-boat, aftermath 48:32 - 53:44 Supression, Rosengarten, training new navigators (land navigation, the mountain scare), Astro-Compass in North Atlantic circle 53:44 - 59:00: Russian convoy, U-Boat advancements (air sea rescue officer's plane), morale, bomber vs. coastal command 59:00 - : crew and leisure, Leigh Light and training, overall effectiveness of crew, opinions on war Battle of the Atlantic, Iceland and radar, morale, contact with home 1:15:00: post- war in the Bahamas, radar bomb site 1:22:14: Life after the military, overall impact Suggested Clip(s) for Archive: 30:25-40:00 Mid Atlantic Air Gap, U-Boat suppression, Mark Ill Low Level Bombsight, Leigh Light, Night attack 40:00 - 48:32: Mid-Atlantic Day attack, sinking the U-boat, aftermath 48:32 - 53:44 Supression, Rosengarten, training new navigators (land navigation, the mountain scare), Astro-Compass in North Atlantic circle Subject Key Words World War Two; Canadian Air Force; Observer School; Navigator Training; Coastal Command; Bomber Command; 102 Squadron; Clyde, Scotland; Astro-Navigation; Reykjavik, Iceland; VLR Liberator; Mid Atlantic Air Gap; Battle of the Atlantic; Maritime; U-Boats, suppression of; Rosengarten; Leigh Light; Mark Ill Bombersights; radar.
Subject:: Military history, Canada. Royal Canadian Air Force, and Sea control
Contributor:: Matthews, Herbert and Jezierski, Janel
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 2014-03-12
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 (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:: oral histories (literary genre), interviews, sound recordings, and reminiscences
Archival Item Identifier:: MH_806
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:: 2014-03-12
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.

668. Carlé, Kevin: my experience as a Canadian defense attaché in Poland with cross accreditation to Czech Republic, Slovak Republic, Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia (March 14, 2014)

Title:: Carlé, Kevin: my experience as a Canadian defense attaché in Poland with cross accreditation to Czech Republic, Slovak Republic, Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia (March 14, 2014)
Description:: Rank: Captain. , Interviewee: Carlé, Kevin, An interview/narrative of Captain Kevin Carlé's experiences as a Canadian defense attaché in Poland with cross accreditation to Czech Republic, Slovak Republic, Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia. Interview took place on March 14, 2014., Interviewer: Taylor, Sarah, and ABSTRACT: Narrator: Carlé, Kevin, 1955-. Title My experience as a Canadian defense attaché in Poland with cross accreditation to Czech Republic, Slovak Republic, Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia. Interviewer: Interviewed by Sarah Taylor Extent 1 sound recording (AIFF Format Sound) 1:28:47, 898 MB Interview Date and Location 14 March 2014, Victoria BC. Synopsis Captain Kevin Carlé’s interview begins by describing his childhood, and enrollment in the reserve officer university training program at UVIC. He provides a description of his family history including numerous military connections, and the education he pursued. Captain Carlé describes his summer training as a reserve officer, and working for the navy as a reservist full time after graduation before being approached to enlist in the regular forces. He discusses being approached for the position of defense attaché in Poland and the subsequent training he and his spouse went through to prepare for the posting, which he took up in 2003. Captain Carlé goes on to discuss the countries he was cross accredited to, and the challenges associated with being the attaché for so many nations. He discusses the role his wife played in hosting diplomatic events, and travelling as well as anecdotes describing how some aspects of the Cold War were still visible like distinctive diplomatic license plates. Captain Carlé describes the importance of a good working relationship with both civilian employees at the embassy and other military attachés. He also relates his participation in several memorable events including ceremonies for the sixtieth anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz, the sixtieth anniversary of the Great Escape, the funeral of Polish ace Stanislaw Skalaski, and the twinning of HMCS Haida and the Polish ship Blyskawica. He provides descriptions of the numerous decorations he received from foreign governments during his time as an attaché, and describes the importance of the role of the military attaché in Poland. The interview concludes with Captain Carlés decision to retire rather than becoming an attaché in Brazil. Log. 0:00 – 12:20 - Introduction, description of early life, family history, military connections and education. 12:22 – 15:42 - Description of joining the Naval Reserve in January 1976 through officer training program, summer training, and motivations for enlisting and joining the Navy. 15:43 – 20:02 - Time spent working full time as a reservist after graduation, before joining the regular forces. teaching at Fleet School and later working in base public affairs, and on the Admiral’s staff before being encouraged to join the regular forces, reaction of wife to career change, subsequent move to Ottawa, and wife’s career. 20:03 – 24:30 - Discusses structure of public affairs branch, and being approached about becoming a Canadian Defense Attaché in Poland. 24:31 – 31:13 - Description of yearlong training for defense attachés, focus on language training, taking photographs, and involvement of wife in training and program. 31:15 – 33:46 - Interaction with Polish citizens, organization for the spouses of attachés and relationships with British and American counterparts. 33:47 – 35:56 - Comparison of one year of attaché training with two year training programs, description of roles of assistants at postings. 35:57 – 43:39 - Discussion of new countries that the attaché was now cross accredited to, and the challenges that arose from cross accreditation, explanation of cross accreditation and list of priorities. 43:40 – 47:53 - Examples of priorities for the Defense Attaché in Poland. 47:54 – 54:30 - Comparison between the duties of military attachés and civilian employees, discussion of the historical conflicts between the two groups, and the importance of good relations. 54:31 – 1:00:35 - Role of spouse in hosting diplomatic event, travelling on diplomatic missions, and the permissions needed for travelling. 1:00:36 - - Examples of changes since the Cold War era, diplomatic license plates, bugs. 1:00:36 – 1:08:01 - Changes since the Cold War era, permissions for travelling, surveillance and personal security. 1:08:02 - 1:11:06 – Working relationship with the attachés from other countries, trips with other attachés, use of photography equipment. 1:11:07 – 1:14:00 - Interaction with ordinary citizens 1:14:01 – 1:16:51- Participation in social events and ceremonies for the sixtieth anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz, and the Great Escape. 1:16:52: - 1:20:35 - Funeral of Polish ace Stanislaw Skalaski, and twinning ceremony between HMCS Haida and the Polish ship Blyskawica. 1:20:36 – 1:23:21 - Decorations received from foreign governments. 1:23:22 - 1:26:31 – Description and importance of the role of the Canadian Defense attaché in Poland. 1:26:32 - 1:28:47 - Decline of attaché position to Brazil, retirement, and conclusion. Suggested Clip(s) for Archive: 45:57 – 46:64 – Description of Maple Arch series of exercises involving Canada, Poland, Lithuania and the Ukraine. 1:14:01 – 1:20:35 – Attendance at ceremonies for the sixtieth anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz, sixtieth anniversary of the Great Escape, the funeral of Polish ace Stanislaw Skalaski, and the twinning of HMCS Haida with the Blyskawica. Subject Key Words Canadian Defense Attaché, Poland, Czech Republic, Slovak Republic, Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, Maple Arch Series of exercises, Defense Attaché, role of; Naval Reserve, HMCS Haida, Blyskawica, Liberation of Auschwitz, sixtieth anniversary of; The Great Escape, sixtieth anniversary of; cross accreditation, military attaché, Polish civilians; interaction with.
Subject:: Cold War (1945-1989), Naval history, and Military history
Contributor:: Taylor, Sarah and Carlé, Kevin
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 2014-03-14
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 (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:: CK_808
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:: 2014-03-14
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.

669. Duddridge, Lewis: my Second World War Air Force training experience (March 14, 2014)

Title:: Duddridge, Lewis: my Second World War Air Force training experience (March 14, 2014)
Description:: Interviewee: Duddridge, Lewis, Interviewer: Fast, Benjamin, ABSTRACT: Narrator: Duddridge, Lewis, 1918- Flight Lieutenant (RCAF) Title: My Second World War Air Force Training Experience Interviewer: Interviewed by Benjamin Fast. Extent: 1 sound recording (MP3 format) 1:59:05, 81.4 MB (file size) Interview Date and Location: 14 March 2014, Victoria, BC. Synopsis: The interview begins with the standard interview narratives and biographical information. F/Lt. Duddridge then goes on to tell his recollections of Hanley, Sask. before the war and his early interest in aviation. The interview includes frequent anecdotes about his brother who also served in the air force. The interview then moves on to describe the difficulty of finding employment in the late 1930’s before discussing enlistment experiences. F/Lt. Duddridge talks about how he overcame a lack of education to become a pilot before outlining his early training. He then talks about his brother’s experience and how they completed training together. The interview then moves on to discuss training with the BCATP and how that impacted becoming an instructor in the 1950’s. F/Lt. Duddridge further explains the training process including detailed descriptions of aircraft and the effect of witnessing accidents and fatalities. The interview then moves on to cover living conditions in training and comparisons to life today before describing interactions with civilians and new recruits. F/Lt. Duddridge then discusses motivation, life after training, and further reactions to death. The interview concludes with a discussion about the importance of sharing military stories and reactions to criticisms about government care of veterans. 0:00 – standard interview narratives 0:30 – biographical information 0:45 – recollections of Hanley, Saskatchewan during the Depression 3:35 – discusses early interest in aviation and military, anecdote about watching airplanes flying over Hanley 4:55 – anecdote about brother who enlisted later 5:57 – description of difficulty finding employment before enlisting 10:30 – anecdote about friends who enlisted at the same time 11:00 – enlistment experience and discussion of lack of education; upgrading classes 11:57 – discussion about night classes and the lack of organization in the RCAF 13:10 – accidental mechanic training in Ontario and his transfer to aircrew 14:17 – family reaction to enlistment was acceptance because of British background 17:10 – realization that brother was on the same ITS course in Saskatoon, talks about how the two went through training together 18:00 – talks about his brother’s excellence in life and comparisons to his own life 18:50 – anecdote about brother’s career as a pilot and the reasons for him becoming a fighter pilot 25:27 – discussion about relying on other when part of a bomber crew 26:30 – anecdote about having a brother in the RCAF, including interaction with family at the Wings Parade 27:00 – experience travelling to Europe aboard the Isle de France 28:50 – talks about the luck in avoiding deadly positions, includes description of other experiences with Coastal Command 29:54 – talks about reasons for enlisting and expectations for becoming a pilot 31:55 – description of first training experiences and the type of instruction involved 32:54 – further explanation of the order and type of training in the BCATP 34:35 – discusses the experience of the first solo flight and the pressure of washing out 38:10 – description of lesson plans used when he was an instructor in the 1950’s (the book could not be found at the time of the interview) 38:45 – discusses memory problems at the age of 96 39:25 – talks about becoming an instructor in 1951, training international NATO flyers in Calgary 41:05 – further explanation of the process of pilot training and graduating to advanced flight training on Cessna Cranes; discusses the usefulness of advanced training 42:40 – discusses the effect of the BCATP on Canada 43:50 – explains the pressure of washout on student pilots 47:29 – discusses the frequency of death and accidents in training and why this was important to prepare students for combat; also the impact of death on trainees 50:40 – anecdote about a “stupid death” in training and the importance of pushing the limit 53:55 – anecdote about certifying other pilots with difficulty flying and assisting with pilot selection 55:20 – discusses the difference between training during the war and today 55:50 – discusses how father’s teaching of common sense helped him in his training 58:55 – expectations of active service and the romance of combat 59:50 – theorizes that the desire to be a fighter pilot was pointless against the will of the air force and the luck of the draw 1:00:34 – compares training to combat reality, discusses lack of understanding of combat 1:02:11 – discusses living conditions while training and how the air force was an improvement from Depression life 1:04:11 – describes how discipline in the military was similar to discipline from parents 1:05:45 – no comparison to life today 1:10:35 – recollections of the Manning Depot at Brandon, MB 1:13:05 – theorizes about the future of warfare 1:13:50 – wants people to learn from the mistakes of the past, discusses his previously published books 1:14:47 – discusses life outside of training and the importance of sport and not remembering boredom 1:20:54 – recounts interactions with civilians while in training and the story of meeting his wife while in England 1:24:35 – talks about the pride of being in the military 1:25:12 – discusses the treatment of new recruits (“Sprogs”) 1:26:20 – talks about fellow Canadian trainees in the BCATP and the international group he trained in 1951 1:28:10 – discusses the friendships formed in training 1:29:37 – discusses the motivation for success in training and the opportunities provided by war 1:31:41 – recounts life after training 1:33:00 – theorizes how great intelligence could divert pilots to navigator training 1:34:04 – discusses how training prepared him for the realities of combat 1:35:35 – reactions to death and war 1:37:00 – recently-learned anecdote about Wellington crash 1:38:40 – tells anecdote of the first death he witnessed 1:41:30 – theorizes about the inevitability of death in war and civilian life 1:42:20 – discusses the difference between training and combat 1:44:00 – description of planes flew during the war 1:45:15 – talks about the draw of the military after the war 1:46:15 – discusses memory loss 1:46:40 – talks about the importance of sharing stories of military 1:47:35 – talks about the changing interest in learning about war 1:50:25 – responds to veteran complaints about governmental care 1:51:30 – discusses his pride for his country and the importance of having his story told 1:58:00 – Interview conclusion, standard interview narratives, and signing the military release form 1:59:05 – interview ends. Suggested Clips for Archive: 5:57-10:15 – description of difficulty finding employment before enlisting 18:50-26:00 – anecdote about brother’s career as a pilot and the reasons for him becoming a fighter pilot 31:55-37:50 – description of training experiences and coursework 41:05-44:05 – further explanation of the process of pilot training and graduating to advanced flight training on Cessna Cranes; discusses the usefulness of advanced training. Also discusses the importance of the BCATP on Canada 47:29-50:40 – discusses the frequency of death and accidents in training and why this was important to prepare students for combat; also the impact of death on trainees 1:20:54-1:24:30 – recounts interactions with civilians while in training and the story of meeting his wife while in England 1:35:35-1:37:00 – reactions to death and war 1:38:40-1:41:30 – anecdote of the first death he witnessed Subject Key Words: Royal Canadian Air Force, RCAF, Bomber, Pilot, Hanley, Training, Family, England, Saskatoon, NATO, Instructing, Accidents and Casualties, Europe, Romance, Sports, Brandon, Memory Loss, Death, Pride, Royal Canadian Legion, Coastal Command, Bomber Command, Wellington, Halifax, Anson, Cessna Crane, Miles Master, Spitfire, Great Depression, Unemployment, Motivation, Washout, Education, Enlistment Experiences., Rank: Flight Lieutenant. , and An interview/narrative of Flight Lieutenant Lewis Duddridge's training experiences with the Royal Canadian Air Force during World War II. Interview took place on March 14, 2014.
Subject:: Military history, World War (1914-1918), World War (1939-1945), and Canada. Royal Canadian Air Force
Contributor:: Duddridge, Lewis and Fast, Benjamin
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 2014-03-14
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:: England and British Columbia--Victoria
Coordinates:: 52.16045, -0.70312 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:: reminiscences, interviews, oral histories (literary genre), and sound recordings
Archival Item Identifier:: DL_800
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:: 2014-03-14
Technical Note:: Digital sound recording in .mp3 format at 95 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.

670. Wilkinson, Blair: my Canadian Maritime Air Support experiences (March 14, 2014)

Title:: Wilkinson, Blair: my Canadian Maritime Air Support experiences (March 14, 2014)
Description:: Rank: Captain. , Interviewee: Wilkinson, Blair, An interview/narrative of Captain Blair Wilkinson's experiences whilst serving with Canadian Maritime Air Support. Interview took place on March 14, 2014., Interviewer: Jezierski, Janel, and ABSTRACT: Narrator: Wilkinson, Blair Title: The Value of Oral History Explored Through Canadian Maritime Air Support, 1941-1994 Interviewer: Interviewed by Janel Jezierski Extent 1 sound recording (MP3 or list other format) file length: 46:41 :50, file size: 545,382.4 (kB) Interview Date and Location 14 March 2014, Victoria BC. Synopsis: The interview begins with a brief exploration of Captain Wilkinson's background before joining the Canadian Air Force in 1957 at age 21. Next, he describes his disappointment at being chosen as an observer/navigator and the training that ensued. Next he describes how he went from being a radio officer to receiving his wings and training for the Maritime Air Command OUT (Operational Training Unit) in Summerside, P.E.I. Captain Wilkinson then explains the submarine tracking that was a major component of his job for the next ten years. Next he describes his first position as a radio officer for #407 squadron in Comox where he instructed at the Maritime OTU, followed by Maritime Warfare School in Halifax. He includes a description of a trip to Hawaii in 1960 where he trained with the US Navy to help them get used to being shadowed by aircraft. Captain Wilkinson then summarizes his experience in Maritime Air Command and explains why he chose to join Search and Rescue. The narrative then goes to Captain Wilkinson's experience in Search and Rescue, and compares working in P.E.I to working in Comox. At 19:25:00 he describes his longest Search and Rescue Mission during a heavy storm on the West Coast, a mission that is featured in 'Sixty Years.' The narrative returns briefly to his Maritime Air Command Years, this time discussing international affairs such as JAS (Joint Anti-Submarine). Next Captain Wilkinson elaborates on his experience in Search and Rescue, then goes on to talk about the Unification of the Canadian Forces, its impact, and the different structures of the navy, army and air force. He then discusses the recognition Search and Rescue received in the media. Finally, Captain Wilkinson summarizes his experience in the forces, briefly touching his most 'war-like' experience under the threat of the Cuban Missile Crisis. 0:00- 4:00: Background, enlistment and training 4:00 - 7:44: Submarine Tracking process in Maritime Air Command 7:44 - 15:44: Maritime Air Command in Comox (aircraft improvements, training, submarine tracking) 15:44 - 26:48: Search and Rescue, Maritime Air Command Internationally, Goose Bay, retirement 26:44 - 46:18: Summary of experience (after retirement, value on military exposure, differences in jobs), impact of experience, Cuban Missile Crisis, conclusion Suggested Clip(s) for Archive: 4:00 - 7:44: Submarine Tracking 18:42- 21:52: Search and Rescue on West Coast Canada Subject Key Words Maritime Air Command; Observation; Navigation; Canadian Air Force, training in; Submarine Tracking; 407Squadron; Comox; MAD (Magnetic Anomaly Detector); SOSUS (Sound Surveillance System); JAS (Joint-Anti Submarine); Search and Rescue; Canadian Air Force, Training; Canadian Navy/ Canadian Air Force, relationship; Cuban Missile Crisis, submarine chasing.
Subject:: Cuban Missile Crisis (1962), Military history, Canada. Royal Canadian Air Force, Sea control, and United States. Navy
Contributor:: Jezierski, Janel and Wilkinson, Blair
Language:: eng
Date Created:: 2014-03-14
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 (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, reminiscences, and oral histories (literary genre)
Archival Item Identifier:: WB_807
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:: 2014-03-14
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.