By Scott Roblin

VIDEO: Changing of the guard at CFB Suffield

Jul 5, 2017 | 1:29 PM

RALSTON, AB – It was the passing of the torch at CFB Suffield on Wednesday morning, with a new commander taking control of the historic base.

A formal change of command ceremony was held on the front lawn, featuring a parade and march of the base’s troops, and speeches from high ranking officers.

Wednesday was the final day on the job for Lieutenant-Colonel John Scott, who will be leaving for a position at Canadian Joint Operations Command Headquarters in Ottawa.

Scott spent two years as leader at CFB Suffield, introducing an elk hunt to control the exploding population of elk, and introducing policies regarding workplace safety and harassment.

WHAT'S ON

Here is what's on this weekend in Medicine Hat: Dec. 12-14

Dec 12, 2025

WHAT'S ON

Here is what's on this weekend in Medicine Hat: December 5-7

Dec 05, 2025

WHAT'S ON

Top five things to do at the Medicine Hat Public Library in December

Nov 30, 2025

Taking the reigns is Lieutenant-Colonel Mike Onieu, who returns to the area after serving with the South Alberta Light Horse in Medicine Hat 14 years ago.

Stationed across the world in Kosovo, Afghanistan and the Democratic Republic of Congo, Onieu most recently was with the Chief Force Development Group in the nation’s capital.

He said moving back to the Badlands was an opportunity he couldn’t let slip.

“When I last served here I decided that someday, and I wasn’t sure how, I would be back in Medicine Hat or in southern Alberta,” said Onieu. “The opportunities that you have in Suffield on the base here are just simply phenomenal.”

On hand to help lead the ceremony was Brigadier-General S.M. Lacroix, as he led the inspection of the armed forces members on parade.

According to Onieu, a big factor in his decision was a chance to be closer to his family.

“I’ve been in Ottawa for two years separated from my wife, my kids, and my cats and my dog,” he said. “So, coming back out here is great on every level. It’s an amazing opportunity work-wise, and it’s also a great opportunity for my family.”

Both Scott and Onieu agreed that two priorities for the base moving forward include controlling the elk population and continuing their relationship with BATUS.

Scott said he’s comfortable where he’s left the base, and is confident in the potential that Onieu has shown.

“That’s been my biggest goal here, is making this place a better place to work,” said Scott. “And, he’s on board and that’s very satisfying. It makes me feel a lot better because as hard as it is to leave, it’s much easier when you have a like minded person coming in behind you.”

CFB Suffield is one of the largest military bases in the world, spanning over 2,600 square kilometres.