Join the RMC Club / Partners Team. If you or somebody you know is in a position to place an ad in: a) the main Veritas magazine b) and / or this electronic version c) and / or the Web site contact Peter Dawe or Bill Oliver.  Rates vary based on local, regional & national exposure (size of the ad, frequency, placement in the magazine / newsletter etc.)

A list of all the RMC Club partners may be found:
www.rmcclub.ca/www/sponsor/partners_e.html 

Pourquoi ne pas devenir l'un de nos partenaires?
 
Diverses options sont disponibles, si vous êtes intéressés veuillez communiquer avec Bill Oliver ou le Directeur exécutif, Peter Dawe pour de plus amples renseignements.
La liste des partenaires du Club des CMR est disponible au: www.rmcclub.ca/www/sponsor/partners_e.html

 Some of our Partners Include

  UP

What's happening around the College?

L'élève-officier (élof) Natalie Jones, 20, de Hamilton, Ont., étudiante de troisième année en génie chimique au Collège militaire royal duCanada (CMR) et membre de l'équipe interuniversitaire d'escrime du CMR, a été invitée le mois dernier à participer au Programme de haute performance (PHP) de la Fédération canadienne d'escrime (FCE).

« À la suite du succès remporté par Jones aux Jeux d'hiver de l'Ontario 2004, l'entraîneuse chef Patricia Howes a incité Jones à participer à ses premiers championnats nationaux en mai 2004 », a indiqué le Bgén Jean Leclerc, commandant du CMR.  « Jones n'avait jamais fait d'escrime avant son arrivée au CMR à l'automne 2002 ».

L'entraîneuse Howes est très fière du succès remporté par Jones à titre de jeune escrimeuse.  « Lors de ces championnats, Jones s'est classée 15e dans la catégorie Sabre dames.  Par la suite, elle a pris part à la compétition du Circuit de sélection canadien (CSC 1) à Montréal en septembre où elle s'est classée 11e, et au CSC 2 à Saskatoon en novembre où elle a obtenu la 7e place ».

Classée au 9e rang du classement général canadien (en fonction des compétitions de sélection de la FCE) dans la catégorie Sabre dames senior, Jones a été sélectionnée pour participer au PHP FCE en décembre 2004.  Ce programme d'entraînement canadien regroupe les douze meilleurs escrimeurs de chaque catégorie, à l'échelle du Canada.  Ces derniers prendront part à des camps d'entraînement et lutteront pour obtenir une place au sein des équipes canadiennes qui participent à des compétitions telles que la Coupe nord-américaine et la Coupe du monde.

« Natalie retirera beaucoup du Programme de haute performance.  Elle est une excellente ambassadrice du CMR et elle représente bien le genre d'athlètes talentueux qui forment l'équipe d'escrime du Collège », affirme Howes.

Carr/Harris Hockey Game

Adrian Hartley

Jamie Routledge

The Carr/Harris annual game between Queen’s University and RMC may not meet the “Classic” level as the long standing West Point series; it is nonetheless a big game for both teams.  First of all, it is worth 2 points in the standings.  Both clubs are in the same division, battling for a play-off spot which makes this contest very significant for the coaches and the players.

Two cadets who have a three year history in this causeway series are Adrian Hartley and Jamie Routledge.  Both have played prominent roles in the past and can be counted on to make their presence felt in what has always been a spirited and hard fought game from start to finish.  

The two schools have a lengthy history dating back to 1886 when they played the first game ever in Kingston.  The game celebrates the history of the Carr-Harris family in the Kingston area.  The Carr-Harris family has a link with both schools: Robert Carr-Harris taught at RMC from 1879-97 and then at Queen’s from 1898-1901.  Ferguson Carr-Harris scored a goal for Queen’s in the schools Stanley Cup loss to the Montreal Shamrocks in 1899.  B.G. Carr-Harris and R.M Carr-Harris played for RMC in the first West Point Game in 1923.  Peter Carr-Harris coached at RMC during the 1950s era. 

The inaugural Carr-Harris Cup game was in 1987 and since then has alternated between the two schools on a yearly basis.  Queen’s has a wide margin with 11 wins, 6 losses & 1 tie.  The game this year is scheduled for Contstantine Arena, Sat 22 Jan @ 2PM.

“RMC game was always one of the highlights of the season – especially when we played in RMC.  Game was sure to be a hard fought battle (and we were 2-2 during my time at West Point) but we would get together and socialize after the game and have some fun. 

I think the reason it endured for so long is that the teams had a mutual respect for each other and although they fought hard during the game, they knew that they were brothers-in-arms and could find themselves on some distant shore together in the future.”

“Did I ever compete in a West Point/RMC hockey game?  This was the reason I applied to RMC, to play hockey and expressly to play in the West Point game (becoming an RCAF pilot was the signing bonus).  Growing up in Montreal, this was the hockey series we all knew about.  It was always talked about in the same breath as other great collegiate rivalries.

Before getting to the big league, RMC, I first had to attend the hockey outback academy at Royal Roads.  I thought to myself, this was no way to treat someone who lived and breathed HOCKEY....particularly a player from Quebec where we didn't realize the game was even played west of Maple Leaf Gardens.

Hockey in 1940s was not about coaching clinics, big game attendance or hockey Moms.  It was about outdoor rinks, pickup hockey, ice shinny, poor equipment and if you were lucky, organized Junior hockey played at the Montreal Forum. 

Today, hockey may have changed at the margins, but collegiate hockey is still the same old game of skill and finesse.  The RMC/West Point game, I believe, is proof that hockey can still be played as it was conceived without all the excesses we see in the sport today.

To me, the West Point game was the culmination of a winter season of Intercollegiate games.  This contest really meant something.  You sensed you were playing for country....CANADA.  Sure, the American ice surface was bigger and the penalty rules were different, but that was a traditional wrinkle we thought of as quaint.  We were there to play hockey.

We were all awed by the sheer size of the West Point Military Academy, but once on the ice, it was a level playing field.  They were good, better than we envisaged.  This made the rivalry that much better...as Canadians we thought we owned the game, but it was not so.  It was like the Grey Cup and the Stanley Cup rolled up into one package...the biggest game of our lives.  Who wouldn't think this game was special?

This series has lived on because of the institutions that gave it birth.  Both are great institutions with immense values which have stood the test of time.  These values are more than clean sportsmanship and mutual respect.  These shared values are also....honour, duty and fair play.  The originators, Archibald Macdonnell and Douglas MacArthur, both visionaries, understood sport as a vehicle to imbue values, but knew also a thing or two about competition and excellence...so how could this classic not endure, given its roots?”

 Planning to attend the game at West Point?  If you do not already have a ticket for the game we have been advised that it is a “sell out”.  Parents & family of the RMC players should not worry, as a certain number of tickets have been reserved for them and will be distributed through the team management.  We are also aware the game can be picked up live as follows: The NHL Network website has confirmed their coverage.  www.tsn.ca/ncaa/feature.asp?fid=8705 

Also, 20751 Captain Wayne Green www.geocities.com/rmc_redmen/west-point.html will have the live Web cast of the game.  We may have a further update on various other broadcasts available next week.

Up to date RMC varsity team scores and schedules may be found at www.ou.ca   
 

  UP

13706 Col.Larry Aitken assumes the post of CFB Kingston Base Commander in January 2004 replacing 13551 Col. Guy Thibault who is assigned as chief liaison officer at the NATO headquarters in Afghanistan.

More than 20,000 attend The Tragically Hip’s Across the Causeway concert at Royal Military College (Navy Bay) to raise funds for The Community Foundation of Greater Kingston, Camp Trillium and the Joe Chithalen Music Instrument Lending Library.  When tallied, The Hip raises $355,000.

Mayor’s Task Force investigates building a new multi-purpose entertainment venue for Kingston.  Now dubbed the Large Venue Entertainment Centre, the cost estimate, initially, is $28.5 million for a 6,000 seat facility.  Council endorses the plan, strikes up a committee, and hires 7188 Don Gedge as project manager and the investigation into completing the project continues.

Don Gedge

Sergeant James Gebhardt arrived at Royal Military College of Canada in 1961 and joined the Major Danny McLeod, led Athletic Department staff as a RCAF, Recreation Specialist - commonly referred to as a Rec Spec in the pre-unification days of the Canadian Forces.  He left nine years later as a Master Warrant Officer.  He returned in 1986 as the, Director of Athletics, and retired from the Canadian Forces in 1988 with the rank of Major.  While at RMC during both tours he was one of the most respected and well-liked staff members at the college - cadets, faculty, military & civilian personnel – all had good things to say about “Geby”.

Present day cadets may not recognize this quiet spoken, good-natured, senior citizen who regularly attends their varsity hockey & basketball games.  They certainly have no idea what impact he made on a couple of generations of Redmen & regular every day cadets going back over four decades.  Many of these same Ex cadets went off to become senior leaders in the CF and industry.  A number of them have been on record - attributing much of their success, approach & general positive attitudes towards the military & business to the influence of the likes of Jimmy Gebhardt from their good ole days at RMC.

Those gentlemen cadets who had the opportunity and privilege to attend RMC during the 1960s when Danny McLeod assembled a staff of All Stars - were a fortunate group of cadets indeed.  “Geby” personified what being a member of the McLeod athletic department in those days was all about.  He was hand picked by the “Major” and never once let him down.  He was fit.  He played & taught most all the sports at a high level.  He showed an interest in the cadets that extended well beyond the phys-ed classes and sports teams.  Every one in the Cadet Wing knew him and recognized that he was an individual who cared for them well beyond what was expected of a staff member.  In short he was a leader!

Many Ex Cadets from that era have their own “Geby” tales to tell – whether it was an experience with his wrestling team; an incident with the PT test or a phys-ed class; or perhaps and even more likely in some type of social setting while at the college – or even down town.  The common theme heard over and over when describing him - “great, great guy”.

One chapter of his RMC time is worth repeating in this article:

    "It was the 1968 Toronto Maple Leafs training camp and “Geby”, than 36, and RMC fellow Warrant Officer Wally Travis were brought in by Coach and General Manager, George “Punch” Imlach to get the Leafs in shape.  After awhile the Maple Leaf players were getting a little tired of the military regimen and at the suggestion of captain George Armstrong decided to invite them for a scrimmage to get back at them a little.  In a column, Sun legend George Cross wrote in the Toronto Telegram Sep. 14, 1968 "It didn't work out that way.  As a matter of fact, Armstrong and his team mates looked as puzzled as when they missed the playoffs last spring.  “It’s abbreviated a bit but Gross also wrote "Gebhard nailed Armstrong near the boards, passed the puck to Travis who promptly beat Bruce Gamble with a low shot.  Actually Gebhard and Travis forgot to tell the Leafs something - they were both former Kingston Aces Senior players."

At the time, Leaf Hall of Fame goalie, Johnny Bower was quoted as saying: "You know Punch should take a look at this fellow Gebhardt, Maybe Punch should sign him.  "Of course, “Geby” just continued on with his military career and eventually earned a reputation as arguably the best defenseman of his day in Armed Forces hockey.  But you have to wonder what might have been if he had been just a few years younger at that camp in Peterborough in the fall of 68.*  He was inducted in to The CF Sports Honour Roll in 1989 for his outstanding performance and long-term contributions to Armed Forces hockey.

This piece on “Geby” was part of an article printed January 20^th 2001 in a column by Joe Warmington in the Toronto Sun.  The article may be read in its entirety: www.badenremembered.com/raiders.html

As mentioned, Major Jim Gebhardt returned to RMC in 1986 and spent two years as Director of Athletics prior to retiring from the CF.  Demands of the job, a larger cadet body, and father-time all combined in preventing him from being too involved in the every day activities of the majority of cadets.  However, he was certainly no desk jockey and was seen regularly at Redmen & other varsity games, regardless of the sport or gender and his presence was often noted during the phys-ed classes and the P.T. test.  By this time, his own daughter Sandy attended and graduated from RMC in 1985.  He never missed an opportunity to informally chat and exchange pleasantries with cadets.  Undoubtedly, many cadets from these two years have their own fond Major Gebhardt stories to tell.  In particular, those who held “bar” positions in Cadet Wing Sports & Recreation can attest first-hand on his high level of professionalism, and the advice & leadership he provided them in achieving success in all four pillars.

His retirement party was held over a two-day period following graduation in 1988.  It consisted of a golf day; stag and a big dinner & dance in the RMC – SAM.  All the decorations, table & chair set-up were left in place from the “grad”.  A standing room only crowd (SRO) attended the three separate functions.  It was a toss-up on whether the “Gebhardt Retirement Function” out-drew the Grad Ball.

Today, “Geby” and his wife of almost 44 years, Yvonne, reside about a five-minute drive from the College up off highway #15, in what used to be known as Pittsburg Township.  They may be reached at: y.gebhardt@sympatico.ca and / or 613 544-9800.  Jim & Yvonne raised three children and one, as previously mentioned, 14962 - daughter Sandy (Malone), did Mum & Dad proud by graduating with her “to be” husband, Bob, with the RMC Class of 1985. 

Jim and Yvonne

Jim hasn’t changed and would be more than happy to hear from Ex cadets to exchange a tale and / or an ale or two.  Old friends who have not been in touch with him will be pleased to hear that his health is fine and during the season can be often found on the local Garrison golf course three or four days a week.  Every couple of weeks or so he still drops by RMC to have his hair cut by long time friend Jimmy Ryan – the college barber for the past 30 odd years.  “Geby” hung up his hockey gear for good at about age 68 but during the recent winters he and Yvonne have made trips to Florida to play a few rounds of golf, and to visit friends.  In short, he still enjoys life to the fullest.

WJO

What others have said about Jim Gebhardt

“Jim Gebhardt is my Dad.  It was during his initial tour on staff @ RMC when I first learned to swim (Ft Haldimand) and to skate (Constantine Arena).  His positive and always “give it your all” attitude was a major influence when growing up.  He taught me the love of sport and of participation.  He said that being a girl should never hold me back from achieving any goal.  It was therefore, no surprise when I went to and graduated from RMC.  He was always encouraging and continues to be my staunchest supporter.  Jim Gebhardt is an awesome role model and my hero.”  

“When a selected group of NCOs were sent to RMC to set up a very ambitious Physical Education and Athletic Department, I had my first introduction to Jim Gebhardt.  Jim certainly made his presence felt right from the very start.

In the beginning, when some felt the programme was too ambitious, he jumped right in with the attitude “We won’t know until we try.  ”This being my sentiment as well, we had an excellent working relationship from then on.  He excelled at running a hockey school for kids but was equally adept at challenging the cadets, or giving instruction to the professionals as he did the Toronto Maple Leafs, he made his mark in each endeavour.

Jim was a superb administrator.  He was also an outstanding athlete, and a team player, with finesse and physical authority.  At five feet ten inches, he played like someone six foot two, which made him a formidable opponent.  His talent earned his place in the Canadian Forces Sports - Wall of Honour.  It was a privilege to play along side him.

”Geby” is one of the most gregarious people I know, with friends all over the world.  When he made up his mind to do something he saw it through to the finish.  For example, he attended the 1972 Hockey Series in Russia.

Jim travels a great deal in retirement, meeting up with friends he has made during his long military career.  There isn’t a soul who isn’t glad to see him, wherever he goes. 
He is a devoted family man who inherited many of his strong personality traits from his mother, a wonderful lady.

It has been a privilege to know, work and play along side Jim Gebhardt over the years.  He has always been someone I could count on.  I highly respect him, and am proud to call him my friend.”

  UP

Guess What?             

We are slowly eliminating most but not all of the “bugs” out of the system maintaining the addresses.  One of the things that have come to our attention over the past few days - is that we only have about 50% (SWAG) of the e-mail addresses for the Club members, including family & friends.  Guess what?  If we don’t have a current e-mail address, the member does not receive the e-Veritas.

We have this nice slick state-of-the-art software program, however, it is only as good as the material programmed into it.  Details like: Rank (if applicable); home mailing address; we already mentioned e-mail address; and work numbers, if applicable, are all essential if we are to communicate with you.

A few points: i)  If you have been promoted since joining the Club, and you notice when you receive your Veritas in the mail that your rank is incorrect – guess what?  ii)  If you moved and you notice you haven’t received a Veritas at the new address – guess what?  iii)  If you plan on moving soon – guess what? 

The Club is not “wired” into the CF or any other Big Brother systems that advises us of changes in your status.  If you don’t notify us, guess what?

Therefore, if you or you are aware of a “bud” that has not been receiving this newsletter please forward it on to him or her.  Or if you notice you fit into one of the other categories mentioned above please notify us.  The best way to do this is to update your Contact Information Online at www.rmcclub.ca or send us a note at rmcclub@rmc.ca

In the meantime, we sincerely hope you enjoy “staying connected”.  And, of course, please make sure you are a member in good standing and your dues are paid for 2005.  Or - guess what? 

Manches supplémentaires!

Les problèmes de notre système s’éliminent petit à petit.  L’un d’entre eux est que l’adresse courriel de plusieurs de nos membres n’est pas à jour.

Si comme membre en règle vous ne recevez pas VERITAS trois fois par année, eVeritas chaque semaine ou que votre adresse ou votre grade/titre ne sont pas à jour sur l’étiquette, vous seriez bien aimable de nous en informer.  Un grand nombre de VERITAS nous reviennent « adresse inconnu » ceci ajoute grandement au frais postaux.

Notre base de données, dernier cri, est efficace seulement lorsque les entrées sont à jour : grade/titre, adresse et numéro de téléphone à domicile, courriel, numéros au travail etc. sont nécessaires si nous voulons communiquer avec vous. 

Il est nécessaire que vous nous avisiez vous-même de tous changements dans votre situation, le Club ne fait pas partie du système des FC ni d’autres sources qui pourraient nous informer de votre promotion, de votre mutation, etc.  Vous pouvez mettre à jour vos renseignements de contact en ligne au www.rmcclub.ca ou par courriel au rmcclub@rmc.ca

Nous sommes toujours à la recherche d’article en français

Trivia Answer:  Six different RMC Commandants during the 1990's - can you name them??

"Many Hands - make the burden light".   « L’aide de plusieurs rend la tâche facile »