On arrival in Halifax we were all greeted with beautiful weather and a warm welcome from our RCMP friends at the Airport.

Arriving at CFB Halifax we got a look at the new security present in these times of terrorism. Though greeted by an armed soldier we were welcomed and began settling in for the stay. Immediately old friendships were re­kindled and new friends met.

After a time of sharing stories we arrived for the Wine and Cheese reception in the Ballroom of the Wardroom (Officers Mess). In a relaxed atmosphere we shared conversation and refreshments. Our hosts welcomed us and as the night lingered on there was a feeling of comradeship.

Thursday saw us up bright and early for the start of the training day. The morning was spent with Inspector Andy Latham of the RCMP. He walked us through his role as the lead in the Swiss Air Disaster. In an honest and forthright manner he gave us a chance to feel and see what the total rescue team and caregivers experienced. For many it was a chance to see close up what our members experienced with the crash.

The afternoon led us out to the countryside on a beautiful day. We visited the Swiss Air Memorials and had a brief service at 13:00. It was a time to reflect on the beauty of nature and yet at the same time stop and remember the lives lost. The afternoon ended with a stop at the Margaret Bay Legion in Seabright for “down east” hospitality in the form of a Lobster Feast. Our thanks to the Legion for hosting.

Friday saw us up and at it again. Glen Selig and Kevin McLellan of the Halifax Regional Police led us through a sharing of their experiences with defusing. debriefing and demobilization. They showed how even the leaders in CISM need the opportunity for debriefing.

The afternoon saw the group in two presentations: a follow-up to the morning gave many the chance to experience defusing and debriefing in a role playing scenario and to discuss past experiences; a second group met with Wendy Bell of the Halifax Regional Police Family Services. Wendy outlined for us the programs they provide for spouses of new officers and the support ongoing for all members.

19:30 saw us gather in the ballroom for a reception and then at 20:00 into the main Dining Room for our banquet. The meal was outstanding and the fellowship great. Our speaker Deputy Commissioner Ryan left us seeing the need for Chaplains in the Police Community and his personal experience was warmly received.

Saturday saw us gather with Chaplain Cynthia Chenard for her presentation on Compassion Fatigue. Another good presentation and discussion ensued.

Our Annual Meeting followed this.

Our thanks go the Host Committee for all their hard work and presence throughout the Seminar.

Stan Fraser, President, CPCA