14 Wing sends 100 to Southwest Asia

By Captain J.P. Turcotte

Sergeant Shello Gero, a medical technician from 14 Wing Greenwood reassures Corporal Raulley Parks during a simulated emergency at Camp Medley. CREDIT: Soldier Pierre Thériault

Approximately 100 members of 14 Wing Greenwood's Mission Support Squadron (MSS) will be deploying in December to Southwest Asia as part of Operation Athena, Canada's contribution to the international campaign against terrorism.

The 14 Wing Mission Support Squadron will form the basis for the Theatre Support Element, providing logistical support to Canadians deployed in Afghanistan and the Persian Gulf region.

In preparation for their upcoming deployment, members of the MSS have undergone extensive training and recently completed a field exercise at 4 Wing Cold Lake, as part of Exercise Wolf Safari 06 where the unit received its final operational certification before they deploy.

"Our men and women have worked hard to prepare for this very important mission," said Colonel Perry Matte, 14 Wing Greenwood Commander. "There is no doubt in my mind that they will tackle this challenge with skill, dedication and professionalism."

Following this exercise, the MSS members returned to Greenwood to make their final preparations for their deployment.

The MSS, commanded by Major Debbie Graitson, is comprised of personnel from a variety of support occupations within the Wing, such as airfield engineers, transportation and vehicle maintenance personnel, supply technicians, cooks, resource management clerks and a variety of other specialized technical occupations.