Jules Xavier
Shilo Stag

Addressing his Change of Command (CoC) audience, LCol Chris Wood called the moment standing at the lectern podium “bittersweet.”
“While I am proud of accomplishments of the unit over the last two years, I’ll admit there is a tinge of sadness to be marking the end of my time in command.”
LCol Wood arrived at CFB Shilo in 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic, so was the leader on the Base when it came to addressing health concerns, mask-wearing and vaccine protocols.
In his speech, he was reminded of the extraordinary efforts and contributions from so many individuals working on the Base.
“The Base soldiers, civilians and their supervisors proved extremely dedicated to ensuring CFB Shilo added value to 3CDSG and Third Canadian Division. As the Base returned to pre-pandemic activity levels, I was happy to see how responsive our local community was to partnerships, whether that be academic institutions, businesses, sports organizations or defence and security partners.”
Looking back on his 24 months at the helm of the Base, LCol Wood acknowledged there were a number of “folks” he needed to highlight in his speech.
“First and foremost, I would like to express my deepest gratitude to my family … to my wife, Lisa, your unwavering support, understanding, and love have been a foundation.
“To my incredible daughter, Rachel, and my amazing son, Ryan, your sound advice on how to handle some of the chaotic and dynamic situations on Base have meant a lot to me. Your laughter, smiles and efforts energized me to give my best in the face of any challenge. Thank-you for all you teach me.”
He acknowledged the unit leadership teams in attendance at the CoC.
“I thank you for your support and commitment to care of our soldiers, employees and our community,” he said. “There is no question of your dedication to achieving mission success, and you continue to find a way to get the priority tasks done.”
He added, “If you seek, you will find like-minded professionals, and I am happy to see partners from the AFB Minot here today.”
USAF military members flew in from North Dakota by helicopter, landing in the RTA, to attend the CoC for LCol Wood, who passed command on to incoming BComd LCol David Cronk, following the signing of the leadership scrolls alongside 3CDSG Comd Col Robert McBride. It was Col McBride’s last visit to CFB Shilo, as he will relinquish his own command before July 1, then heads north to his next posting in Alaska.
LCol Wood then recognized the CFMWS team, under the leadership of senior PSP manager Craig Ethelston, for facilitating significant advances in the community.
“It wasn’t until I took over [as Base Commander] that I saw the full force that is wielded with CFMWS. I’m extremely happy with the increasing levels of support for our soldiers, and I’m excited by the initiatives that are in the works.
“Craig, your team’s determination brought about the upgraded waterpark, expanded the groceries section at CANEX, and improved the outdoor skating area, and skate park. Thank-you to you and your team for your unwavering commitment to improving our quality of life.”
LCol Wood also expressed his appreciation to Shilo MFRC executive director Willie van Lankvelt, for her unwavering commitment to the Base’s military families which he called “truly exceptional.”
“[Willie’s] compassion, guidance and tireless efforts have created a supportive environment for our families. I know you have your retirement date on the calendar, but I thank you for your invaluable contributions.”
LCol Wood highlighted partnerships from CFB Shilo’s hinterland as being important, too, during his role as Base Commander.
“When I speak about partnerships, I am extremely thankful to the supporters within out community,” he said. “[During] the last two years the military community in Manitoba has benefited from the efforts of Len Islefson, who is the province’s Special Envoy to Military and who shares the same alma mater as my son Ryan, and from the unwavering support by tireless volunteers by way of Brandon Salutes.
“From my vantage the support for our troops and their families has been remarkable. To these individuals, and many others I see in the crowd here today, your tireless efforts have strengthened the bond between our military, their families and our communities.”
CWO Jeremy Abrahamse also earned praise from his Command Team partner for his “unwavering dedication” prior to being promoted to captain following his own Change of Appointment ceremony.
“You always provided your best advice, would never let ‘balls be dropped,’ and always ensured the soldiers’ perspective was heard. I am excited fro what is on the horizon for you and your family in Edmonton.”
While he started his CoC address by sharing his sadness in turning in his Base HQ keys, he said he was excited for his replacement LCol Cronk and Capt Abrahamse’s replacement as BRMS CWO Eric LeClair as they start their two-year tour at CFB Shilo.
“In true Shilo tradition, I extend a warm welcome to David and [wife] Mariola, and Eric and [wife] Andrea … not every day will be like this [warm sunshine] … some will be colder [prairie winters]. Your arrival marks the beginning of a new chapter for our unit. I have every confidence under your capable leadership, CFB Shilo will continue to flourish.”
To the soldiers of CFB Shilo, LCol Wood said it was his honour to serve as their Commanding Officer.
For his part, LCol Wood said it was a privilege to:
• lead the soldiers, sailors, aviators and public servants of CFB Shilo;
• care for our families;
• look after and make best use of those resources allocated to this Base, and
• tackle the challenges which came up.