Army hockey at Edmonton Garrison

A soldier with PPCLI shoots and scores during a friendly game on Dec. 9 in the Twin Rinks Arena at Edmonton Garrison.

This morning I photographed members of Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry (PPCLI) playing a series of hockey games on Dec. 9 in the Twin Rinks Arenas at Edmonton Garrison. In keeping with their annual tradition, PPCLI members played a series of hockey games comprised of teams based on their ranks, with Master Corporals and Corporals playing against Privates and officers playing against senior NCOs. © 2015 Grant Cree photos.

To see complete coverage, visit my online gallery.

PPCLI soldiers face off during a friendly game on Dec. 9 in the Twin Rinks Arena at Edmonton Garrison.

Canadian paratroopers jump

Paratroopers of Third Battalion, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry (3 PPCLI) conducted a jump into CFB Wainwright, Alberta on 1 December 2015.  This blog features my photo and video coverage of EXERCISE PEGASUS STRIKE, a tactical rehearsal for arctic operations.  The troops assembled at Edmonton Garrison in 3 PPCLI headquarters at 0200 hours, then drove to a hangar at Edmonton International Airport where they helped each other don their equipment. 

Here’s the links to my online photo gallery and YouTube video 

Paratroopers with Third Battalion, Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry board a Hercules CC-130J aircraft at Edmonton International Airport on 1 December 2015.

Flight crews with 426 Squadron (based at CFB Trenton) operating two Hercules CC-130J aircraft flew the paratroopers to their drop zone at CFB Wainwright.  The two planes took off shortly before 0900 hours and 30 minutes later, the Jump Master shouted his commands:  “Look This Way.  Stand Up.  Hook Up. Check Your Equipment.” 

The Hercules Load Masters opened both side doors and the chilly wind blast added to the thunderous propeller drone. Everybody waited for the green light, then the Jump Master gave the signal:  Go.  Within seconds, all paratroopers jumped to their objective. Immediately upon landing, they were on foot using fire and movement to capture a bridge held by simulated enemy forces. 

As that was happening, the two Hercules aircraft flew to the Rocky Mountains (Jasper area) to conduct several hours of contour flying. They flew at 600 knots per hour, frequently descending to about 300 feet above ground level. Then suddenly lurching upwards with a sharp bank to the left or right, depending on the terrain.  After the contour training exercise was completed, the planes returned to Edmonton International Airport.  © 2015 Grant Cree photo and video.

A paratrooper stands waiting to jump from the Hercules CC-130J aircraft.

Paratroopers grip their static lines as they wait to jump from the Hercules CC-130J aircraft.

A Jump Master with Third Battalion, Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry checks the equipment of a paratrooper in a hangar at Edmonton International Airport

China visit, October 2015

In October, I travelled with a Chamber of Commerce group on a 10-day visit to China where we participated in a trade mission and enjoyed a variety of cultural activities.  More photos: China visit photo gallery

Shanghai at night as seen from a tourist ferry.

Local musicians show talent

A variety of local musicians performed on stage during the annual Harvest Festival in Morinville. The event took place on Oct. 3 in the Community Cultural Centre after event organizers moved it from St. Jean Baptiste Park due to inclement weather. The festival included live music, crafts and the Farmers Market    © 2015 Grant Cree photos.

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Hundreds enjoy Oktoberfest

Approximately 450 people gathered on the evening of Oct. 2 to enjoy German entertainment, food and beverages in the Morinville Community Cultural Centre. Everybody celebrated the town’s 3^rd annual Oktoberfest that featured live entertainment -- the Vinok World Dancers and The Braybek Brothers performed traditional dances and folks songs.  © Grant Cree photos.

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Vinok World Dancers wow the crowd.

Vinok World Dancers ham it up.

The Braybek Brothers perform. 

Vinok World Dancers perform a traditional German dance.

Children learn traditional dance moves from Vinok World Dancers.

The Braybek Brothers.