In 1994 I was under contract in Algeria, A country that during the height of the French Colonialism was both beautiful and bountiful. This was sent into oblivion when the revolution came. The Algerian war of independence went from 1954 till 1962. Thirty plus years after that time I was contracted as a Catering/Camp manager . The architecture was beautiful along the Mediterranean, Sadly it was in very bad shape. The Vineyards had been torched over the years, as against Islam. They certainly never thought of retaining the Grapes as a fruit harvest.
None the less Expatriate workers go to these countries for many reasons, economic and humanitarian being two of the primaries. ExPtas are always aware when troubles are in their area. While I was there the FIS "Islamic Salvation Front" was cutting the throats of Expats caught walking the streets. A fellow from our camp was gunned down at the petrol station just outside our gates. The parent company Bechtel evacuated us rapidly. These BP staffers did not have that opportunity. So many suffering families in Scotland, England, Norway and France plus the ones that have yet to be identified.
Yesterdays Chaos at the Gas plant, culminating in a botched rescue attempt. Brought about the deaths of 41 people. Mostly Exppatriates who were working for the benefit of Algeria.
The Islamic extremists used this soft target, to protest the use of French and African Troops in Mali. So many unnecessary deaths, of peaceloving Non Combatants.
http://www.aljazeera.com/news/africa/2013/01/201311719454517593.html
As Canada is asked again to provide more support for the French and Mali. Our Prime Minister and Minister of Defence are once again on the Hot seat.
The Malian Ambassador to Canada thinks that it is a done deal, that Canada will continue longer than the original week tasked.
http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2013/01/17/pol-canada-mali-thursday.html
http://www.cbc.ca/news/world/story/2013/01/18/algeria-british-hostage-crisis.html
So as we enter another Red Friday, we must be prepared for Canada to be contributing more than one C-17 and crew both ground and air. I wonder if once again our country is behind the proverbial 8 Ball.
A note for RCASC Veteran readers a temporary forum is available now for your thoughts and concerns. http://baconburner.wordpress.com/2013/01/17/rcasc-temporary-forum/
I have the latest book from Military Writer, professor and columnist Ted Barris.
Titled : "Breaking the Silence"
A very moving collection of Memorable stories from Canadian Veterans a great read.
Please show support for our troops. Have a thought or prayer for our Aircrew in Mali.
Nil Sine Labore
Robby
