Colonel Jody Hanson, OMM, CD

March 2026

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17 Wing/CFB Winnipeg Team,

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As we close out the busiest quarter of the year, I want to highlight the teammates whose work doesn’t always make headlines, but whose efforts keep our Wing and Base ready, credible, and compliant. These are the professionals who keep our systems safe, our buildings functional, our people supported, and our mission moving—often without fanfare. Their contributions underpin everything we do, from supporting NORAD operations to training the next generation of RCAF personnel.

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Our building custodians and accommodations professionals deserve particular appreciation. Mr. Paul Van Helvert, custodian for Bldg 135, continues to lead multiple safety portfolios with a quiet, steady professionalism. He is joined by Mr. Parent, MWO Bernard, and our Wing Accommodations team—where Brian Caton and Mark Adenomoh exemplify the same behind‑the‑scenes excellence. Brian is often among the first and last on site during marches in and out, ensuring standards are upheld and guests are cared for—even after hours when issues arise. Mark’s initiative was on full display during the Dakota Inn sprinkler incident, where he arrived early, supported the cleanup immediately, and applied his OHS expertise to help restore operations safely. Together, this group quietly ensures our workspaces, accommodations, and shared environments remain safe, serviceable, and welcoming for our members and guests.

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Across the Wing, our safety OPIs and safety‑related specialists have also delivered outstanding results. Sgt Thomas Bisson (402 Sqn), serving as UGSO and Deputy Environmental Officer, led the Wing’s response to a contamination issue in the ACS Refinishing Shop, contributing to an exceptional 95.9% Wing Safety Audit score. In our explosives and armament safety program, Lt Gabriella Ross and Sgt David Wallace modernized policy and strengthened compliance across the Wing and all lodger units in our AOR. Colin Harvey from PSP has been equally instrumental—serving as Fire Warden, completing monthly inspections, ensuring AEDs, extinguishers, and emergency systems remain operational, and coordinating equipment movements across facilities with RP Ops and contractors. His diligence directly supports the safe operation of multiple high‑traffic spaces used daily by our personnel.

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Our procurement teams also deserve special recognition. In a year of increased defence spending—and increased pressure to get every dollar out the door—they remain the “belly button” of our financial execution. Their success directly enables our Wing/Base to contribute meaningfully to the national 2% commitment. And yes, when I hear a purchase has crossed the finish line, I give a fist pump.

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From 17 MSS, Jacquie Dalke and our Procurement Cell enabled the acquisition of 25 new “skimmer” toboggans for 4 CRPG—an investment that strengthens northern mobility with lighter, safer, more durable gear. At CFSSAT, MCpl Pete Allan cut through a three‑year backlog to procure 43 survival vests and move 1.5 tons of SERE equipment following the 2025 wildfire—ensuring SERE and AOS‑Land training remained uninterrupted. At 402 Squadron, Sgt Joseph Hardy completed an extraordinary $1.6M in Dash‑8 component procurements, navigating unprecedented supply arrangements and setting a new standard for what’s possible.

To everyone recognized here—and to the many more whose names might not appear in this message but whose work absolutely powers this Wing—I want to say: we see you, we thank you, and we are grateful for the professionalism you bring every day. You make us safe. You make us credible. You keep us ready. And you make me and CWO Rousseau proud—every single day—to serve as your Wing Command Team.