On March 22, 2016, a ceremony was held to induct a number of veterans into France’s National Order of the Legion of Honour. This is the highest French honorary decoration awarded for eminent merit in military or civilian service to the French nation. The distinction, normally reserved for French nationals, is awarded exceptionally to foreigners, including veterans who fought in the First and Second World Wars. The ceremony was held at the Maison Paul-Triquet, where Mr. Michaud and four other veterans were in attendance to accept the honour.

At the morning coffee break during the CME Council meeting on 28 April 2016, Mrs. Shirley O’Connell had an opportunity to show Branch Council members the work of the Izzy Doll project over the past decade. The project is conducted in memory of MCpl Mark Isfeld and his humanitarian work with children while he was deployed on peacekeeping operations. The Izzy Doll project distributes the small Izzy Dolls that bring some comfort to children around the world who have been placed in miserable and inhospitable circumstances through war and natural disaster.

The CME was not simply created, it has evolved over the last century, and the CME birthday reflects two significant events. The Engineers existed in the form of militia even prior to Confederation, however, 1 July 1903, when the Regular component of the corps was authorized under the designation Canadian Engineer Corps, is considered the birth date of the CME.

By MWO Jim Harris (Ret’d)

For the first time, CFB Valcartier was host national hockey tournament members of the Canadian Military Engineers, serving and retired. Organized by the 5 Combat Engineer Regiment (5 RGC), the edition 2016 of the Beaver Cup, ran from 3 to 7 April welcoming eleven teams from across Canada.

The Royal Sappers and Miners Cemetery, Newboro, Township of Rideau Lakes, United Counties of Leeds and Grenville, Ontario

By Don Cooke