Remembering ‘Whispering Duke’ Schiller Canada’s forgotten aviation hero
November 25, 2024Reading Time: < 1 minuteA new book in Canadian military history illuminates the extraordinary life of a Canadian aviation pioneer whose daring exploits and contributions to early flight have largely faded from public memory. Tom Douglas’ Whispering Duke Schiller: Canadian Aviation Pioneer resurrects the remarkable story of Clarence Alvin ‘Duke’ Schiller, a man whose aerial feats rivaled those of his more famous contemporaries. Douglas, a veteran journalist and author with a deep passion for Canada’s military heritage, discovered this compelling tale through a personal connection: Duke Schiller was his great-uncle. See the full story at the Lookout!
Esquimalt’s Hidden Heroes: The Byrnell family’s military legacy
Reading Time: < 1 minuteWes Byrnell’s remarkable career spans both military service and pioneering work in sports medicine, leaving an indelible mark on the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) and the field of athletic therapy. In 1976, Byrnell was awarded the…
Pat Bay ceremony gives new wings to fallen Second World War pilot’s legacy
Reading Time: < 1 minute“He was an ordinary guy,” said Sooke’s Jay Hammond, recalling the uncle he never met, Pilot Officer Wilbur Bentz (nicknamed “Wib”). Yet, the items excavated from the crash site in Belgium told a different story. Watches,…
Stolen raptor mascot recovered in Langford
Reading Time: < 1 minuteA prehistoric-themed liquor store in Langford has been reunited with its stolen raptor mascot after a two-month absence, thanks to an anonymous tip and swift action by local law enforcement. The West Shore RCMP successfully recovered the…
Naval history meets Indigenous voices in new novel
Reading Time: < 1 minuteIn a groundbreaking novel, former naval officer Ron Thompson bridges the gap between Canada’s maritime history and Indigenous perspectives, offering readers a fresh look at a pivotal moment in the nation’s past. The Wind From…
How art helps embrace Indigenous roots
Reading Time: < 1 minuteAs Canada prepares to observe National Truth and Reconciliation Day this September, we reflect on the intertwining of Indigenous heritage and military service through the story of one remarkable family. The Byrnell family’s military ties run…
HMCS Alberni Museum’s poignant exhibit
Reading Time: < 1 minuteThis summer, the HMCS Alberni Museum and Memorial (HAMM) in Courtenay is shining a spotlight on a pivotal moment in Canadian naval history with its compelling new exhibit, simply titled ‘59’. The exhibit, which culminated in…
CANSUBFOR: Ensuring safety and readiness in the deep
Reading Time: < 1 minuteBeneath the waves, Canada’s Submarine Force (CANSUBFOR) operates in one of the most challenging environments known to humankind. The silent service demands not only courage and skill but also an unwavering commitment to safety. In an…
CAF members triumph in grueling Nijmegen Marches
Reading Time: < 1 minuteAmidst sweltering heat and grueling conditions, three members from CFB Esquimalt joined eight other Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) personnel in completing the prestigious Nijmegen Marches this July. The 106th edition of this renowned event challenged military…
Colwood Walk of Hope to boost funds for ovarian cancer research
Reading Time: < 1 minuteEvery five hours, Canada loses a life to ovarian cancer. This stark reality underscores the critical importance of the upcoming 2024 Ovarian Cancer Canada Walk of Hope, scheduled for Sunday, Sept. 8, at Royal Roads University…
UVic Theatre tackles climate change in powerful new production
Reading Time: < 1 minuteIn a move that’s set to shake up commuter routines, BC Transit announced Aug. 20 it will discontinue Route 13, a popular bus line serving the University of Victoria (UVic) and Ten Mile Point areas. The…
Kate Bandura
Life is Beautiful
