Breaking New Ground—Stories from Defence Construction Breaking_new_ground | Page 152
BREAKING NEW GROUND
STORIES FROM DEFENCE CONSTRUCTION
The story of Defence Construction Canada is a fascinating
account of an organization that has played a pivotal role
in providing infrastructure and environmental services in
support of the defence of Canada. This book is a chronicle of
Defence Construction’s past—and political scan in Canada and
around the world—told through the stories and anecdotes of
employees past and present. In recognition of their service to the
Corporation, this commemorative book entitled Breaking New
Ground—Stories from Defence Construction will be distributed
to employees, retirees, and partners in celebration of the
Corporation’s sixtieth year.
There is a bond among us that comes from a common commit-
ment to integrity and to excellence. We know that excellence is
a goal and that integrity is fundamental. And knowing this, we
build on a sound foundation. These are high-sounding ideas,
but to me they are appropriate to the Company.
—Richard Golding (Dick) Johnson,
DCL’s first President
During my approximately 35 years with DCL, I remember the
many fine people I worked with, and I appreciate the help
they provided. This comment applies to both DCL and military
personnel. Between the two, there was always a good working
relationship and a strong sense of the teamwork necessary to
get the jobs done.
—Don Turney, joined DCL in 1953
If you know what the hell you’re doing and have a person
behind you that backs you, you can really accomplish good
things, serving your country. That was the sort of atmosphere
when I was there.
—Alec Lawson, a former quarterback for the Ottawa Rough
Riders and DCL Manager, began his DCL career in 1954
The fee-for-service approach that was put into place in 1997
changed the world for DCC. From DND’s perspective, I think
that it changed DCC to become very client-oriented, very
service-oriented, very responsive to DND’s wants and needs… a
DCC that was marching in time with DND every step of the way.
—Steve Irwin, retired Brigadier-General, and former DCC
Vice-President, Operations
It was unique… I think that’s what attracts a lot of people. This
is an opportunity to say ‘this is where I can make a significant
contribution…’
—André Sirois, DCC program support officer, 2009
We are DCC. These are our stories.