By Capt Dion Spencer 17 Wing Mission Support Squadron
COLD LAKE, ALBERTA - The culmination of years of planning and preparation for the Air Force Support Capability concept reached fruition on 5 May with the deployment of the 17 Mission Support Squadron to Cold Lake, Alberta, in support of the Edmonton based 408 Tactical Helicopter Squadron at Exercise Maple Flag 39.
Despite delays and significant planning obstacles experienced from the outset, the first ever camp to provide logistical support to an Air Expeditionary Unit under the Air Force Support Capability concept was established ahead of schedule.
The deployment began with the 13-person reconnaissance party departing by CC130 – Hercules Transport Aircraft provided by the Trenton based 436 Squadron, and loading assistance from 17 Wing’s 1 Air Movements Squadron. Although slightly delayed, the reconnaissance party was underway and the mission was off the ground.
On arrival at Camp Medley, the reconnaissance party faced several obstacles, such as a gas line running directly through the accommodations area and an incomplete site preparation, which resulted in a redesign of the entire camp layout. Despite these challenges, the reconnaissance and advance parties successfully erected the headquarters complex, mess facilities, and modular tenting to bed down Mission Support Squadron personnel within the initial 48-hour period.
With the last members of the Mission Support Squadron arriving at Camp Medley on 9 May by road convoy, efforts were directed to constructing the remaining components of the camp to achieve operational status. Personnel instrumental in establishing the camp include Sgt Roberts, for overseeing the construction of MEX 26 shelters, MCpl Petty, for setting up the tactical shower system currently being trialed, Sgt Browning, for establishing the reverse osmosis water purification unit and fuel supply delivery system, Sgt Provo and Sgt Morningstar, for establishing the generators and complete electrical distribution system, the entire Communications and Information Systems Flight, for providing communications capabilities throughout the camp via satellite and radio frequencies, and Capt Manson and MWO Rousseau, for overseeing the entire camp build up in a mere 6 days.
With the build up of Camp Medley nearly complete, the Mission Support Squadron was positioned to receive the advance party from 408 Tactical Helicopter Squadron on 12 May. Priorities and activities were redirected to focus on the arrival of the Air Expeditionary Unit that would assist in the AFSC. With the advance party arriving by ground transportation, the Mission Support Squadron was able to complete preparations prior to their arrival. As the camp prepared for an influx of personnel that would more than double its population to 230, finishing touches were completed on the Tactical Shower unit and the bed down area. Despite minor adjustments to the manner in which the Mission Support Squadron came accustom to conducting business, early indications are that the new arrivals are extremely pleased with the support and accommodations provided at Camp Medley.
All 17 Mission Support Squadron personnel are to be commended for their outstanding efforts and commitment to the Air Force Support Capability concept and the manner in which they have performed their duties.
