CFE Today Archives

The Canadian Forces Community in Naples has a
brand new community centre to call home. CFN's
Gary Barnes was on hand for the grand opening.
Originally aired 08 May 2008.
(mp3 4.47MB) (Requirement)
Peace Through Dialogue Medal - Pte Michael O'Rourke Medal of Valour recipient, Canadian Forces Pte Michael O'Rourke, accepts the Peace Through Dialogue Medal on behalf of all NATO Soldiers at the 44th Conference on Security Policy in Munich. Originally aired 15 February
2008.
(mp3 4.99mMB) (Requirement)
JFC Headquarters Brunssum Economic Impact Study - Part I A study by the Dutch research institute ,til finds the NATO base has a significant economic impact on communities within 100 kilometres of its location in Brunssum.
Originally aired 05 February 2008.
(mp3 8.88MB) (Requirement)
JFC Headquarters Brunssum Economic Impact Study - Part II Originally aired 07 February 2008.
(mp3 7.32MB) (Requirement)
LCol (Ret) James Megellas (see his Web Site)![]()
James "Maggie" Megellas is the U-S Army 82nd Airborne's most decorated officer. CFN's Gary Barnes spoke with Mr. Megellas about his book "All The Way To Berlin" during a book signing at U-S Army Garrison Schinnen. Originally aired 17 December 2007.

BGen David Martin - Part I
(mp3 8.27MB) (Requirement)
BGen David Martin, who oversees the Canadian Forces Personnel Support Agency, visits the CFN studios. Originally aired 29 November 2007.
BGen David Martin - Part II Originally aired 30 November 2007.
BGen Bertrand - Part I
(mp3 8.27MB) (Requirement)
BGen Robert Bertrand visits the CFN studios to talk about Canadian Forces Transformation. Originallay aired 24 October 2007. BGen Robert Bertrand - Part II Originally aired 25 October 2007.
"Canada First" Defence Strategy
The Canada First Defence Strategy represents an unprecedented long-term commitment to the CF and DND. This strategy sets long-term objectives, provides a vision for future operations as well as consistent, committed long-term funding. The Canada First Defence strategy will help rebuild the CF into a first class, modern military, ensuring that Canada has the armed force it needs to protect its sovereignty and security into the future.
PM unveils Canada First Defence Strategy (news release)
12 May 2008
Halifax
Prime Minister Stephen Harper and Minister of National Defence and
Minister of Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency Peter MacKay today unveiled the Canada First Defence Strategy, the government's comprehensive plan to ensure the CF have the people, equipment, and support they need to meet the nation's long-term domestic and international security challenges.
"If you want to be taken seriously in the world, you need the capacity
to act - it's that simple," said Prime Minister Harper. "The Canada
First Defence Strategy will strengthen our sovereignty and security at
home and bolster our ability to defend our values and interests
abroad."
The Prime Minister noted that defending the country and protecting
Canadians at home are the main priorities of the Canada First Defence
Strategy. The other major priorities are meeting Canada's
responsibilities for continental defence and being a robust and
reliable contributor to international security and humanitarian
missions.
Minister MacKay provided details as to how the CF will grow and evolve
under the Canada First Defence Strategy. They include:
xpanding to 70,000 Regular Force and 30,000 Reserve Force;
Improving key CF infrastructure;
Increasing the overall readiness of the CF; and
Proceeding with the major combat fleet replacements of surface combat
ships, maritime patrol craft, fixed-wing search and rescue aircraft, fighter aircraft, and land combat vehicles and systems.
"Beyond strengthening our security at home and abroad, the Canada
First Defence Strategy will deliver significant economic benefits for
tens of thousands of Canadians," said Prime Minister Harper. "Moreover, by investing in new military equipment and technologies, the Strategy will benefit Canada's knowledge and technology industries, which will produce lucrative civilian commercial
spin-offs," said Prime Minister Harper.
Today's announcement complements the significant steps the government
has already taken to strengthen the CF, including the procurement of
new and upgraded equipment such as new strategic and tactical lift
aircraft, joint support ships, armoured vehicles, helicopters, and
Arctic/Offshore patrol ships.
Further details about the "Canada First" announcement can be obtained
by accessing the following links on the Web:
Backgrounder - Canada First Defence Strategy - Canadian Forces' contribution to sovereignty and security in the north ![]()
Backgrounder - Canada First Defence Strategy - Long-term funding
framework![]()
Backgrounder - Canada First Defence Strategy - Equipment acquisitions to date ![]()
Backgrounder - Canada First Defence Strategy - The four pillars ![]()

