Article By: Capt Kyle Ho, RPOU(W) Operations Officer 2
Real Property Operations Unit (West) (RPOU(W)) launched its Asian Heritage Month (AHM) 2026 celebrations on 29 Apr 26, the Canadian Military Engineer (CME) Birthday, marking the beginning of a month‑long series of cultural education and engagement activities. This year’s celebration marks the third consecutive year that RPOU(W) has proudly recognized and amplified Asian heritage within the Defence Team.
The CME Birthday was highlighted by the ceremonial cutting of the CME cake on 29 Apr 26, served as a meaningful and symbolic starting point to bringing together history, culture, and the strength of diversity within the Engineer community.
As part of the evening’s program, Andrew Gillese, RPOU(W)’s Sustainability Engineer, volunteered to share insights from his recent trip to Japan. Drawing from his personal connection to Asia through his step-family, and his wife’s 2-years living in Japan, Mr. Gillese spoke about the cultural and spiritual foundations of Japanese society, including the coexistence of Shintoism and Buddhism, a concept that challenged Western assumptions while highlighting Japan’s uniquely layered identity. He explained how everyday practices, such as bowing, are deeply rooted norms of respect, not only toward people but also toward nature. He shared that in ancient Japan, harming deer, considered sacred messengers in Shinto belief, could once be punishable by death. He also highlighted the absence of a tipping culture, noting that offering tips can be perceived as disrespectful, as Japanese service workers take pride in excellence without expectation of extra reward. Mr. Gillese concluded by reflecting on Japan’s exceptional food culture and hospitality, which left a lasting impression and reinforced how cultural understanding can deepen respect across communities.
The evening also featured remarks from Capt Kyle Ho, RPOU(W), who framed the discussion by acknowledging ongoing tensions in Central and East Asia and the importance of understanding their broader implications for Canada and the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF). Capt Ho shared his deployment experience in Mongolia, where he worked alongside the Mongolian Armed Forces and international allies from across Asia. He spoke about Mongolian wrestling, one of the country’s national sports, and how shared interests particularly martial arts can helped bridge language barriers when many soldiers did not speak English. Despite limited facilities in the Mongolian wilderness, soldiers from different nations trained together on open grasslands, building trust, friendships, and professional networks. These experiences underscored how cultural exchange and shared hardship strengthen international cooperation.
RPOU(W)’s AHM celebrations align with broader Defence Team efforts through the Defence Team Canadian Asian Network (DTCAN), a grassroots organization committed to promoting cultural awareness and education across CAF bases nationwide. Throughout the month of May, DTCAN is hosting weekly online education sessions, offering opportunities for learning and dialogue open to all Defence Team members. The national DTCAN closing event watch party in Edmonton will take place on:
28 May 2026 | 1100–1200 (MST)
Warrant & Sergeants’ Mess, CFB Edmonton
Attendance is open both in person and online, and all members are encouraged to participate.
If you are interested in the event details, please contact: dtcan-raced@forces.gc.ca
The CME Birthday Cake also featured the first “Taste of Asia” event, followed with sushi generously supported by the Canadian Military Engineers Association (CMEA) and contributions from RPOU(W) Headquarters staffs. What began as a small cultural initiative has grown into the largest cultural education event at RPOU(W), with additional local‑level celebrations planned throughout the month of May.
Asian Heritage Month is a time to recognize the immense contributions of Asian Canadians and to celebrate the strength drawn from diversity and inclusion. Through open engagement, cultural learning, and the willingness to have difficult conversations, we continue to grow stronger as Canadians and as a Defence Team.
LCol Melanie Arsenault in her closing remarks: “The most meaningful culture change begins from the ground up. When we encourage and embrace grassroot initiatives, we empower people to bring their full selves to the organization and that is how lasting change takes hold.”
Thanks for those who support by contributing and participating.
CHIMO!