The sign says "Welcome" but the concrete filled barrels, hydrailic solid steel barriers, armed guards and manned watch towers convey a different meaning. A first impression is of a prison, but once inside the camp, friendly faces can be seen.
As Canada's contribution to the 11 nation multinational force and observers (MFO). The Canadian contingent comprises of CORE (TAC helicopter) personnel and augmentees. Air Command in cooperation with its bases provides Air Traffic Controllers to support the MFO flying operations at North Camp which includes fixed wing (two twin Otters and one Transall) as well as helicopters from RAS Nasrani, South Camp. Most ATC personnel who serve in the Sinai are volunteers. Their reason for serving vary from a sense of adventure to feeling that one is contributing to peace in the Middle East. In terms of operating in a multinational environment, I believe it's a worthwhile and unforgettable experience.
The work here not only involves basic flight following but close liasion must be maintained with the flying world as well as the Force Operations Centre. MEDEVACS from the observation posts (OPS) are common place and would you believe in a six month period we had three emergency autorotations that ended up in a mine field. Rapid coordination with EOD, MRP etc. ensured successful recovery of these valuable personnel and equipment resources.
As one can see, the tasks are varied, but each member contributes to the whole team. The climate and working conditions are much different than in Canada, but that is part of the challenge. What one gets from a tour in the Middle East varies, job satisfaction, self satisfaction, and an appreciation for the culture and history in a part of the world that few Canadians get to see, let alone work in. The tour is not all work, leave is also provided and opportunities exist to explore Egypt and Isreal. Thousdands of years of history are here to explore. Cultures far different from our own exist just outside the camp fence and next to the runways. Bedouin women can be seen herding their goats and sheep as they have done for the past several thousand years.
Every Air Traffic Controller, who has served at El Gorah, agges that they are glad they had the chance to get a first hand look in this part of the world. This area makes news headlines just about every day. I think we leave here with a greater appreciation for Canada and our way of life. Would I do another tour in the Sinai? If the opportunity presented itself, I would.Courtesy Bob Browner.
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Updated: December 14, 2004