Jules Xavier
Shilo Stag
After 233 months sitting in the Shilo Stag editor’s chair in my CANEX office, it’s time to sign off with my “30” as I retire from a four-decade journalism career.
Yes, your Stag editor turned in his office key July 31 following his final shift working, not on the newspaper, but the Stag’s website. As I retire, I welcome KJ Millar from Prince Rupert, BC, to the fold as she takes on the mantle of Stag editor.
The final actual newspaper I put to bed using InDesign layout was sent to Killarney for printing and was published on Aug. 11, 2022. Now defunct in its 75th year of “serving the Canadian Army since 1947,” the Stag then went online officially on Nov. 1, 2022.
While I enjoyed doing my journalism work on the website, it was not the same as holding a 12-page Stag after it comes off the press. It left ink on my hands as I perused the pages.
Or observing Stag readers at CANEX and elsewhere on the Base, or in Legions in the Westman’s hinterland, grab copies off the news stand. Moreover, hearing from Kendra Minary at Minary Homestyle Bakery in Souris about the popularity of the Stag as her customers grabbed fresh bread and a half-dozen glazed donuts and two giant apple fritters plus the newspaper before departing the bakery.
How I’ve changed since the fall of 2012 while out with 2PPCLI on fall exercise in the RTA, my first time in a LAV with then CO LCol Mike Wright (now MGen), to this spring 2023 with my ever present green fedora to keep the sun off my hairless head. Lot greyer today, a few more pounds, plus more wrinkles now that I’m in my 65th year. One’s passport does not hide the truth as we age during a decade-plus on the prairies.
A lot has changed in my life since day one on the job on June 18, 2012, having left Vancouver Island on June 12 for the drive east across four provinces after departing ferry. From mountains to the flat prairies.
Proud of my accomplishments and national recognition among my journalism peers when it came to the content in the Stag. Especially when the Stag finished runner-up to the perennial winner CFB Esquimalt’s Lookout newspaper. Photos, feature and history stories garnered top-three national awards, too.
I take pride in what then BComd LCol Rick Goodyear (MGen retired) wanted in our first discussion at his HQ office my first week here … to have a truly community newspaper, to draw on my mainstream media experience working for community newspapers in Ontario, Alberta and BC.
And still putting out a newspaper during the COVID-19 pandemic, just missing one issue after the pandemic was declared by WHO in early April ’20.
Will I miss this experience serving the Canadian Army’s training Base named Camp Shilo back in 1947? For sure, I will miss the community I covered, my many walkabouts to find weather or life feature photos. Covering sports. Change of Command ceremonies every two years. Parades. Promotions.
Moreover, the big events like Terry Fox Run, Canada Day — LCol John Cochrane’s 150th with me up on a boom taking photos of the vast crowd which came out for the live entertainment — Kingston Cup battles at Gunner Arena featuring A and B Btys, Remembrance Day services with 2PPCLI at the grave of Sgt Mullin VC, Ex FROZEN GUNNER, Ex LIMBER GUNNER, Ex KAPYONG SPEAR, learning about the life of Pte Cecil Minary of Nesbitt thru the letters he wrote and transcribed by his great-great-niece Kendra Minary of Souris during the pandemic, Mud Day … the list of what I’ve done during many full moons is endless.
I will especially miss the history stories and people features I was able to write, thanks to those who allowed me into their past lives.
There are also sad moments when I think of the military funerals I’ve covered in Brandon. It was a frigid afternoon when Korean veteran WO Lucas was interred while surrounded by 1RCHA soldiers. Or Pte Morley Roney’s funeral in late fall in Wawanesa, his burial attended by an honour guard and piper from 2PPCLI. Lest we forget!
There are many memories I will cherish, besides my interactions with you, the Stag readers I conversed with outside of Canada Post in CANEX when you grabbed your copy. I lament my departure, but it’s time to be closer to family on the west coast, to live out my golden years by the ocean or standing looking up at mountains I would like to explore with my trusty JRT Dotti.
This includes my officiating schedule — did you know I was a football and hockey referee, plus umpired baseball? Besides Gunner Arena doing minor and intersection hockey, I’ve spent time in arenas throughout the Westman. My football travels took me as far as Swan River and Moosomin, SK, to Brandon, Souris and Neepewa. Baseball also allowed me to visit many of the small towns and villages where baseball is a favourite summertime passion of fans at venues where I called balls and strikes: Glenboro, Plumas, Wawawnesa, Souris, Hamiota, Neepewa, Deloraine, Reston, Austin, Carberry and Brandon.
My retirement was celebrated at Rick’s Restaurant, with three of my four sisters — Jane, Morgan and Teresa — flying in to be part of the ceremony after lunch from British Columbia and Ontario. Thanks for the two M777 displays I will display at my next home on Vancouver Island. Plus, I will cherish the coins presented to be by new BComd LCol David Cronk and 1RCHA CO LCol Joe O’Donnell.
I also garnered a number of testimonials from former 2PPCLI COs, a CE OC, former BComds plus military members and others who I have befriended since June 2012, most having moved on every few years during posting season. I also heard from a PAO out of Garrison Edmonton who spent time with me on OJE after remustering from an artillery position, but needing some time in a newsroom to hone some journalism skills before going off to PAO school in Quebec.
Here are few of the testimonials I thought I’d share with Stag readers to learn what individuals thought of my journalism skills and our working relationship:
Jules,
On behalf of former 2PPCLI RSM (now Capt) Todd Dandrade and I, and frankly generations of 2PPCLI soldiers and residents in the broadly Shilo community, deep gratitude and heartfelt thanks for your unflinching commitment to covering the Army’s news with accuracy, impartiality, poise, reliability and élan. You are more than the editor of the award-winning and beloved Stag, you are a member of our regimental and military families. You made us better for over a decade.
I wish you continued health, happiness and success as you relocate back to Vancouver Island. We will think of you often and look forward to the next time our paths cross. Until then, take good care my friend!
BGen Bob Ritchie
Chief of Staff to the VCDS
Jules,
I am definitely enjoying the copies of the Stag. It is a real highlight to settle in on a Friday night and read the two editions when they arrive. I am grateful for two things: first, that you keep sending them; and second, that you continue to dedicate yourself to accurately covering life and service at CFB Shilo. We are exceptionally lucky to have you on the Defence Team.
You are owed a hearty debt of gratitude for your service to DND/CAF and CFB Shilo for all these years. I for one am very grateful. Congratulations on perpetuating the storied history of the Stag – 75 years is a remarkable accomplishment, particularly contemporary communication trends. Your readership, including me, is grateful for your authentic and dependable reporting.
BGen Bob Ritchie
Deputy Commanding General – Operations, XVIII Airborne Corps (Fort Bragg USA)
Hello Jules,
Summer is there and vacation time approaches for most of us. For you, it’s the time to start writing a new chapter of your life. I hope you are doing fine and that you feel a little bit excited about it! I wish you a retirement as passionate as your career has been. I hope that life will give you tons of opportunities to continue to put your wild imagination to work for your community. Your dedication is so inspiring! Take advantage of this new phase in your life while we will continue to sail on the turbulent sea of communications!
Guylaine Fortin
Journal Servir-Managing Editor
St. Jean, Quebec
Dear Jules,
As your last day at The Shilo Stag approaches, I wanted to take a moment to express my deepest appreciation for your invaluable contributions to our military community. The CFNA wanted to mark your retirement at our last meeting but you were unable to attend, so I thought I would share the thoughts I wanted to share then.
Your impending retirement marks the end of an era, and it is with a mix of emotions that I extend my heartfelt gratitude for your years of dedicated service.
Throughout your tenure as the editor of the Shilo Stag, you have played an indispensable role in keeping our military community informed, connected, and engaged. Your commitment to delivering accurate and timely news has been unwavering, and your dedication to providing a voice for our community has been truly commendable.
Your expertise in reporting and photojournalism has left an indelible mark on the publication. The stories you have covered and the photographs you have captured have not only informed us but also evoked emotions, fostered unity, and celebrated the unique experiences of our military members and their families. Your exceptional talent and passion have been evident in every article and image, creating a lasting legacy for future generations.
I would be remiss not to acknowledge the accolades you have earned throughout your illustrious career. Your award-winning photographs and articles in the Canadian Community Newspaper (CCNA) awards stand as a testament to your unparalleled skill and dedication to excellence. These prestigious honors not only recognize your talent but also serve as a reminder of the significant impact you have had on the field of journalism.
In addition to your remarkable achievements, I want to express my gratitude for your invaluable contributions as a mentor through the Youth Reporter competition. Your willingness to invest your time and expertise in nurturing young journalists is truly inspiring. Through your guidance and mentorship, you have helped shape the next generation of storytellers, leaving a lasting legacy that extends far beyond the pages of the Shilo Stag.
Your unwavering commitment to documenting the history and stories of our military community has created a remarkable record of our collective journey. Your tireless efforts have ensured that the triumphs, challenges, and sacrifices of our community will be remembered and cherished for years to come. Your work has given a voice to countless individuals and preserved the essence of our shared experiences.
Jules, as you embark on this new chapter in your life, I extend my warmest wishes for a retirement filled with joy, fulfillment, and well-deserved relaxation. May this be a time for you to pursue your passions, indulge in new adventures, and create cherished memories with your loved ones. While your departure from the Shilo Stag leaves a void that will not easily be filled, the legacy you leave behind will forever be etched in our hearts and minds.
On behalf of the entire CFMWS headquarters team and CFNA, I want to express our deepest gratitude for your extraordinary dedication, outstanding contributions, and unwavering commitment to the military community. You have made an indelible impact, and your influence will continue to shape the lives of those you have touched.
Thank-you, Jules, for your remarkable service, exceptional talent, and unwavering passion. It has been an honor and a privilege to work alongside you, and your presence will be greatly missed. May your retirement be filled with happiness and fulfillment as you embark on this new chapter of your life.
With heartfelt appreciation and warmest regards,
Ryan Cane
Senior manager Recreation Program/Community Services
CFMWS – Ottawa
I was fortunate to have done my OJE with Stag editor Jules Xavier, as I awaited my Public Affairs course. My first day in the Stag office, I had the same experience many have had walking into Jules’ office. “Does this guy ever stop talking? Do I just leave?” ran through my head. I soon discovered Jules’ passion for journalism and telling the stories that CFB Shilo had to offer. Many hours were spent looking over past issues of military publications discussing layouts, cutlines and CP Style. He gave me an introduction into photography, which has now become a passion of mine that I pass onto others. Thank-you, Jules, for teaching me the story was more than the sum of its parts, and how to engage the reader. I’m proud to say Jules has become a good friend, someone who I’ve trusted countless times out in Shilo. All the best in your well-deserved retirement on Vancouver Island. I look forward to seeing the stories you tell in your decidedly less cold new abode.
Capt Ryan Bartlette
Public Affairs Officer, 1 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group
(Now PAO with 3CDSG @ Garrison Edmonton)
Jules,
Truly enjoy your well deserved retirement. We appreciate your friendship and dedication to our community and your treasured stories about our dear dad (late) Pte Morley Roney.
Janice McDonald-Wawanesa, MB
Retirement – what a milestone. Congratulations! I’ve known Jules for 12 years now and I recall so many things about him leading up to this point I figured I’d touch on some of the things which still resonate with me to this day.
To set the stage, Jules and I had nothing in common initially — and I mean nothing — let alone a 20-year age gap, but then the realization he’s trying to make things better “in his own way” which could only be described as “unique” but certainly much needed. Everyone, be they military or civilian, live by the proverbial “leave things better than you found them.” I saw the pittance that was the Stag before Jules took over as editor, and I can say without a doubt those efforts were a resounding success.
How did he do it? Well, he has a few unique characteristics. Bluntness, Dedication. And enduring legacy.
• Bluntness
He’s blunt. I think everyone who knows him can agree. “What do you think of …” were the deadliest words to say to Jules, especially if it was a rhetorical comment as you’re going to hear the blunt truth. It was refreshing and that straightforwardness is a dying trend. I had quite a few moments of “pause” following our conversations.
I also liked the fact he was old-school, he said what he was truly thinking – another tendency which is waning in society. He realized you could not always make everyone happy – so he just did the best he could and that was what the Stag needed.
• Dedication
I learned even if you’re not photogenic like myself – as CE OC and Shilo Mayor, I had many photographs taken and posted on Facebook or used in the Stag – you quickly learn to get over it.
Jules could be seen wandering the Base outfitted with that horrid green fedora hat, sandals and camera bag, not only from 0900 – 1700, but also before that and after that, or on weekends if there was the opportunity for editorial or photographic coverage of Base and unit activities.
His efforts put Shilo on the map with journalism awards and recognition at the national level relative to other Bases and Wings. His support of Communities in Bloom showed CFB Shilo could not only compete with the big Bases, but win – and that would be followed up with excellent Stag coverage.
• Enduring Legacy
After leaving CFB Shilo, Jules was often a point of commonality with former Base Commanders – you could guarantee upon meeting one someone in the country or overseas that one of the first questions they’d ask is “How’s Jules?” or “Did you see that article in the Stag?”
Whoever replaces Jules at the editor’s desk is going to have big shoes to fill — despite him only having hobbit-sized feet — and I hope their able to continue to grow what he has built – CFB Shilo deserves it.
Meanwhile, Jules grows on you. There’s no other way to say it. As military members we make friends as we travel from place to place – usually military friends and usually of an age similar to ourselves. But as I may have eluded to once or twice before — Jules is “different.” You could always count on a short visit as he headed out to Vancouver Island on summer vacation when I was posted to Garrison Edmonton, and on my numerous work trips back to CFB Shilo as RPOU-W CO, I never had to stay in the shacks and I never had to worry about coffee in the morning.
He has been the best public affairs-related employee (military or civilian) I’ve had the pleasure of working with during my CAF career while posted in Canada’s west.
There’s something to be said about my numerous one-on-one meetings around the Base with then BComd LCol Rick Goodyear or BComd LCol Stephen Joudrey, where we would be standing somewhere, be it a playground or a building on Base discussing ways of improving it, and the ever-present disclaimer of “where’s Jules hiding – you know this is going to be in the Stag.” And although you didn’t see him, sure enough there’d be pictures on Facebook that evening plus an article in the Stag the following week.
As for the man himself, he’s going to retire to Vancouver Island, where the weather is great and the fish are plentiful – you can count on my visits from the east coast, so you best figure out some of the hidden gems in British Columbia. On a personal note, you’re now part of our family since you used to babysit Kim and I’s two kids when we went out on a date night; you’re always welcome in my home and you’ll always have a seat at my table.
To sum up, at the beginning I said “Jules and I had nothing in common initially” but after reflection, I realize we’re cut from the same cloth, and the privilege is mine.
Chimo!
LCol Reg Sharpe
BCEO CFB Shilo 2010 – 2013
I’d like to congratulate Jules on his 12-year tenure as the editor of the Shilo Stag. While we only overlapped during my second year as CO at 2PPCLI, Jules has kept me up-to-date on the activities happening in Shilo since I left in 2013, sending me copies of the Stag and even the occasional Base calendar! I’d also like to thank Jules for the passion and dedication he put into publishing an excellent newspaper and encouraging a sense of pride and accomplishment in all of the amazing members of the community that calls Shilo home. Having seen Jules on the ice and on the football field as a referee, I know that he has also given so much of his time to the greater Westman community. Jules, best of luck as you move back west to much more temperate winters, and thank-you for all that you have done!
MGen Mike Wright — CO 2PPCLI 2011-2013
Commander Canadian Forces Intelligence Command/Chief of Defence Intelligence
Jules Xavier retiring? Despite us chatting about it many times, I never really thought it would happen. Jules and the Shilo Stag are a partnership with each dependent on the other. The Stag needed Jules’ dedication, enthusiasm and creativity to tell the stories of CFB Shilo’s residents, while Jules needed the Stag as a creative venue to express his passion for journalism and meld it with his love for the CAF, its members and their families. A more perfect match has never been seen.
Despite all the incredible work you did with the Stag, your impact on CFB Shilo extended well beyond that one significant piece. Your time spent coaching, refereeing, and helping out in the community was something that was recognized by everyone. If there was something going on — Jules was there.
My favourite memory is undoubtedly during the CFB Shilo Canada 150 celebrations, you determined that you absolutely needed an aerial photo of the grounds during the concert. So off you went and found your way into the telescopic boom, which as it rose got a bit of a sway going with the breeze. I could almost see you grip bending the cage as you ascended. Despite this once up to the top, where we could now clearly observe the sway of the boom, you immediately got into character and started snapping some incredible photos, many of which I still have today. Your determination to find the best way to record and detail events for CFB Shilo was outstanding.
Jules never missed an opportunity to cover a story, take a photo, or simply sit down and give you his views on life and the world. Your love for the members of the CAF and the residents of CFB Shilo and the surrounding community is second to none. You never approached your time as the editor of the Stag as a job; you were a member of the community who happened to be the editor of the Stag. Although I wish you all the best in retirement in British Columbia, please know your absence will be felt and you will be missed.
LCol John Cochrane
BComd 2015 – 2017
Shilo Stag editor Jules Xavier has made an indelible mark on CFB Shilo through his exceptional coverage of 1RCHA (1st Regiment Royal Canadian Horse Artillery). With his unwavering dedication and passion for journalism, Jules has consistently provided insightful and captivating articles that highlight the achievements, challenges, and stories of the 1RCHA soldiers.
His coverage of 1RCHA has been nothing short of outstanding, as Jules has managed to capture the essence of the regiment’s contributions and the incredible individuals within it. Through his articles, he has effectively showcased the valour, camaraderie, and professionalism of 1RCHA members, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for their important role in the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF).
Jules’ journalistic prowess is evident in his ability to delve beyond the surface, uncovering the personal journeys and experiences of the soldiers. His interviews and features have allowed readers to connect with the men and women of 1RCHA on a human level, bringing their stories to life and emphasizing the sacrifices they make for their country.
Moreover, Jules’ unwavering commitment to accuracy and integrity has earned him the respect and trust of the 1RCHA community. He has demonstrated an exceptional understanding of the Regiment’s operations, history, and traditions, ensuring his reporting is thorough, balanced, and reflective of the realities faced by 1RCHA soldiers.
In summary, Jules Xavier’s impact as the Shilo Stag editor, specifically in his coverage of 1RCHA, has been profound. His exceptional journalism has shed light on the remarkable individuals and important work of the regiment, fostering a sense of pride and appreciation within CFB Shilo.
Through his dedication and skill, Jules has undoubtedly left an enduring and positive legacy in the hearts and minds of those connected to 1RCHA as he retires July 31 as Stag editor. His coverage of 1RCHA and the subsequent stories he would write or photographs he would have taken will be missed.
LCol Joe O’Donell
1RCHA CO
Jules,
Thanks for your many years of outstanding service to the Shilo community and to me personally. Your dedication, enthusiasm, hard work and high level of professionalism were obvious from the outset and never wavered right up until your last day. You can be very proud of what you have accomplished here in Shilo, Jules. You took a struggling community newspaper and made it into a first-class, award-winning publication and more importantly, something people actually wanted to read. You will be sorely missed here as both the Stag editor as well as an icon in the Shilo community. Best of luck in the next phase of your adventure as you get back to BC to reconnect with your family and, of course, enter into your well-earned retirement.
Mike McEwan
Retired senior PSP manager
Finally, I want to thank the BComds I worked for — Goodyear, Joudrey, Cochrane, MacIntyre, (late) Lyttle, Wood and, for a month, new BComd LCol David Cronk. And an additional thanks to my two bosses, McEwan and current senior PSP manager Craig Ethelston, for putting up with my quirky personality and tireless work ethic.
More importantly, I would like to say merci/thanks for those who were avid readers of the Shilo Stag newspaper. You are who I wrote for, or shared my photography with every two weeks when the published newspaper arrived at your PMQ doorstep or you grabbed at CANEX or at Sobeys/Safeway in Brandon.
And while I will miss many who I have interacted with during the past 233 months, the one thing I will really miss is the delicious apple fritter baked by the Minary family in Souris. Cumberland’s apple fritters do not compare in size or taste.
-30-
It was a full-house at Rick’s Restaurant when PSP celebrated Stag editor Jules Xavier’s July 31 retirement, with senior PSP manager Craig Ethelston presenting him with two M777 displays and two scrolls. Xavier had three sisters in attendance after they flew in from Ontario and British Columbia. Xavier won a number of national newspaper awards for photography, layout and feature/history writing during his 12-year stint as the longest-serving editor of the now defunct 75-year-old photographer. Covering Army training or community events, here you’ll find a few of his favourite images captured on his Nikon camera. Or moments which garnered kudos from Stag readers. Photos Jules Xavier/Shilo Stag & Jane McNeil/submitted
