Military and civilian members of the 12 sections which form 14 Wing Greenwood’s Deputy Wing Commander (DWComd) Branch gathered at the Annapolis Mess July 22 for the branch’s chief warrant officer change of appointment ceremony.
“I cannot understate the importance of what you do, and the fact that the wing cannot succeed without you,” said reviewing officer, Deputy Wing Commander Lieutenant-Colonel Devl Paquette, as he addressed branch personnel.
“I don’t finalize claims. I don’t hire civilians or Air Reserve members. I don’t provide imaging expertise – or do a hundred other things that you do every day. You do the work that supports our mission. You do it well, and it’s appreciated. Our most important job, the branch chief and I, is to enable you and ensure you have the resources and training you need to do your jobs.
“And the key to our success is the work done by the branch chief warrant officer.”
While Paquette is sorry to see his valued command team partner, outgoing Chief Warrant Officer Charles “Chuck” Rice, leave the branch after a short tenure, he believes, whether Rice’s next adventure takes him to an airfield or a golf course, his presence will be appreciated.
“I had the honour to serve with former Royal Canadian Air Force Chief Warrant Officer Gaudreault on squadron, and spent two years as a commanding officer with Chief Warrant Officer Hall when he was a wing CWO, so I do have some experience. And, I can tell you, you’re at that level,” Paquette told Rice.
“You’re at the next level, and it has been a joy serving with you.”
Though relieved to see suggestions of a bubble machine, cardboard crown and swords were not taken seriously for the event, Rice thanked branch members for their dedication and professionalism during his tenure, while also “making my job the most pleasurable on the wing.” Rice considered himself blessed to have had the opportunity to be a part of four separate command teams during his career; of 14 Wing’s DWComd Branch, he said, “never before have I witnessed such collaborative, enthusiastic esprit de corps, nor a group of individuals who have such a profound impact on fostering a culture of support and inclusion.
“It is, and will continue to be, the personnel of the DWComd Branch who are the foundation of 14 Wing’s collective achievements.”
Paquette welcomed incoming Chief Warrant Officer Jamie Vallis, and believes he will find, in the branch, “professionals at all levels who won’t let you down.”
Having spent a week alongside Rice getting to know the branch’s diverse group of members, Vallis is excited to join the lively crew.
“The past week I’ve spent with you has been fantastic. The morale in this group is so high, and I truly believe that is based on your (CWO Rice’s) efforts. I’ve never met a more eclectic and happy group of people, and I am truly excited to be spending my days with you in the future. I think this is going to be a fantastic couple of years.”
