PO1 Mike Morin
Mike's Deployment
Greetings Everyone,

I knew it would be a long journey when I first volunteered to go to Afghanistan, but never
really realized how long and at times difficult it would be. I left Halifax at the end of April
07 for CFB Edmonton Alberta. Once there, our training began. Throughout the training
described below is a list of courses needed in order to be deployed.
We finally deployed in early Feb 08.  After what seemed an eternity, I finally landed in
KAF (Kandahar Air Field) early on a cold morning. After a couple of days of what is
called “getting acclimatized”, receiving more Kit + Ammunition, a functional test of your
C-7 and 9mm on the range, you are now ready for your turn over.
Weapon handling (dry run) ranging from C-7, 9mm, C-6, C-9, hand grenade, M72, 84 mm.
Weapon handling (Ranges Live Fire) C-7 PWT1, 2, 3 , night shoot and gun fighter, pair fire & move, Group
fire & Move and Section fire & move, 9mm PWT1, 2 and 3. Live C-6, C-9, and live Grenade.
Other training included, CBRN (NBCW), Radio voice procedure, Combat First Aid, Field Craft, Media
Awareness, Navigation and Night Navigation, DAGR (JPS), Force Protection Technique, Check Point
operation, Search & Detain, Land Mine awareness and IED, Convoy OP’s. Let’s not forget, Physical
Fitness activities, 13 km rock march and Emergency Driver Training.
During that period I quickly had to learn where everything was located in order to ensure
good continuity of service. My primary area of responsibility while on tour was Accn
NCO, overseeing and keeping track of where everyone were staying within KAF, arrivals
and departures from KAF, and ordering F & E for the newly constructed Accn Bldg (7). In
addition I was responsible for the mattress replacement program and placing all work
orders for repair and maintenance.
During a period of two months I was responsible for a section of ten personnel drawn
from the different sections in KAF (Canadian).  I received a brief from the IMP
(International Military Police) with any Intel, and/or possible threat for that day.  I then
briefed my personnel with their duties and responsibilities, and as to what was expected
of them during their duty for the weekly Bazaar.  The duty consisted of providing security
throughout the three checkpoint entrances, verification of ID Cards, and searching of all
local merchants and drivers attending. Once the Bazaar was open the IMP would take
over and we would stand down.
Under the direction of the CSM (Camp Sergeant Major) and in coordination with
mortuary affair timings, I coordinated ramp ceremony practices for driver, escort, and
poll bearer, and coordinated with Chaplain for the availability of the Chapel for set-up
and viewing of our fallen comrades and orchestrated the Ramp Ceremonies with the
CSM.
I filled in as a right setter during CLP (Combat Logistic Patrol); and
Other duties as required or directed by the CSM.