WRITER PROFILE

A former physical education teacher, Jim Parker is naval reservist and writer. Ten years ago, he took sabbatical from teaching and filled his time enjoying world travel, in and out of uniform. His current love is Africa, where he served in the Sudan in 2008 as a United Nations Military Observer. He and his partner Heather, a Victoria physician, have returned to Africa three times since, the most recent trip, a fantastic train journey from Cape Town to Dar es Salaam. Jim has written and published about his time serving in the Sudan, as well as his most recent deployment to Kabul, Afghanistan 2011-2012. He has authored two books that he hopes will be published soon: The Children of Africa. A Photographic Journey and The Awkward Soljer: Hard Lessons Learned from Sudan to Afghanistan and Points In between. Jim Parker is happily ensconced in Victoria, BC with Heather and their dog, Judd the Rockweiler. He looks forward to the next adventure.
Articles by this writer
Canada has announced that the Lockheed Martin F-35 has been chosen to replace the aged CF-18s. New kit as major as this should go a long way to boosting recruitment of pilots, aircrew, and aviation technicians. It's time to quickly capitalize on this new recruitment tool.
Prince Harry saw first-hand how the power of sport can help those suffering from injuries and illness – and this inspiration led to the Invictus Games. Team Canada members are already busy training for the next games.
Central BC's declared state of emergency has been extended until at least August 18. Firefighters require a huge support system behind them. Here's an insider’s view from behind the scene.
Canada is not alone in suffering serious naval equipment design and procurement problems. The list of dilemmas that effect naval procurement around the world is long and varied.
Becoming a Park Ranger in Africa is more dangerous and like military training than what their counterparts in North America have to prepare for.
A look at options for replacing auxiliary oiler replenishment ships.
Would multi-purpose vessels be more cost-effective than an Icebreaker and Patrol Ships?