Interview with Col Radiff

Col. Radiff proved himself to be a warm and dynamic person from the very start of the interview, welcoming our reporter into his office just days after taking command of 3 Wing and CFB Bagotville. He is a man of action and it shows as soon as one enters his office. The first thing that is surprising is that there is not even a chair behind his desk. "I prefer to work upright. I do not like to sit for a long time and as I have to spend several hours in my office, it's more comfortable for me to stand, "he explains, standing in front of his computer screen that has been installed in a raised position. Once we get comfortable, the new commander admits that he is a little nervous about giving his first long interview in French. He has not had much practice speaking French since his last assignment in Bagotville 10 years ago. However, he carefully chooses the right words and his fluidity is impressive with even more improvement surely to come. Describing himself more as a leader than as a manager, in the coming weeks he plans to take a little time to "monitor the beach'' Outdoor enthusiasts fly fishing and snowshoeing, Col Radiff is also a fan of traditional bow hunting. He passed on the passion of archery to his family. With his wife and his two boys, he plans on enjoying the nature, rivers and parks in the area with his family over the next two years. When asked about his priorities as commanding officer, the word "family" came back very often during the forty- five minutes of the interview. "We cannot fulfill our mission without knowing that our family members are well, safe and supported," explains Col Radiff. He firmly believes that military families are part of the organization he commands. With regards to the functionality of the base, the new commander says that his predecessors have set up a remarkable organization that has proved itself, so he does not intend to transform everything. Those who want to know more about his vision and directions as a commander are invited to read or re- read the text of Colonel Radiff published in the July edition of the Vortex.