Posted By LUKE HENDRY, THE INTELLIGENCER
Posted February 9th, 2010
As the top officer of Canada's largest air force base, Col. David Russ Williams is a familiar face in the Quinte region.
Williams, 46, is married to Mary Elizabeth Harriman. They have no children.
Williams is quiet and at times awkward, yet personable.
In an Intelligencer interview in January, he appeared relaxed, focused and happy with his job as base commander, a role he has held since July.
"It's been outstanding," he said. "It's been a lot of fun but very, very busy. What has really impressed me in the last few months is how outstanding the support from the local community continues to be. I can think of very few events that have been anything less than positive."
The job of base commander requires an officer to be a visible public figure: the commander is host of an annual public golf tournament and Christmas reception, takes part in charity events and speaks to municipal councils and service clubs.
Williams also was one of Trenton's Olympic torch bearers during the flame's 2009 pass through the region. More recently, he oversaw aid flights to Haiti and escorted defence minister Peter MacKay and Gen. Walt Natynczyk, Canada's chief of defence staff, around the base.
His military resumé is relatively unremarkable for an officer of his rank: he's flown with various squadrons and has had some administrative desk jobs in Ottawa.
The officer earned a degree in economics and political science from the University of Toronto.
He enlisted in the Canadian Forces in 1987 and earned his pilot's wings in 1990.
Williams was a flight instructor with 3 Canadian Forces Flying Training School in Portage la Prairie, Man.
He was stationed with 434 Combat Support Squadron in Shearwater, N.S., where he flew the CC-144 Challenger, a small passenger jet, for coastal patrol and electronic warfare, such as disrupting enemy communications.
Williams was eventually transferred to 412 Transport Squadron. Though technically a Trenton unit, its Challengers are based in Ottawa. It was with this squadron that Williams began piloting VIPs to various destinations.
A promotion to major came in 1999 along with a job as a career manager for military pilots of multi-engine planes.
Williams studied in Kingston's Royal Military College command and staff course from August 2003 to 2004, earning a Master of Defence Studies before being promoted to lieutenant-colonel.
He was given command of Trenton's 437 "Husky" Transport Squadron in 2004.
His duties with 437 Squadron also included flying high-profile Canadian dignitaries around the globe in the squadron's specially-equipped CC-150 Polaris, a modified version of the Airbus A310.
Though it's not clear just which VIPs were aboard those flights, the squadron is routinely assigned to high-profile missions in which prime ministers and the governor general travel the world.
After departing Trenton, Williams worked with the military's Directorate of Air Requirements where, in 2006, he began serving as a project director. There, he was involved in the studies on Canada's needs for heavy-lift aircraft, the new CC-130J Hercules and CC-177 Globemaster III transports and other search and rescue planes.
Williams took command of CFB Trenton and 8 Wing, the base's air force element on July 14, 2009.
The base is the air force's transportation hub, with virtually all personnel and cargo going to and from Canada passing through Trenton. The base is also a major employer and in the midst of nearly $1 billion in infrastructure development.
Williams said in January that development boom was an obvious good-news story but the disruptions it causes can be distracting for staff.
"We just need to keep our eyes on the ball so that our operations don't suffer," Williams said.
"My main concern is that we're able to continue operations, which is the reason we're here, but at the same time make sure that people are keeping in mind that they ought not get too distracted by the day-to-day inconveniences."
His official military biography described Williams as an athlete and photographer.
Asked in an interview what he liked to photograph, Williams fumbled a little before responding with a laugh that he had many pictures of his car, including one he kept on his Blackberry. He said he also enjoyed photographing nature scenes.
- - -
Colonel David Russell Williams?
-Williams enrolled in the Canadian Force in 1987, after obtaining an economic and political science degree from the University of Toronto
-After receiving his wings in 1990, Williams was posted to 434 (Combat Support) Squadron in Shearwater, NS, where he flew the CC144 Challenger. Later he was posted to the 412 Transport Squadron in Ottawa where he fly the Challenger, this time in the VIP transport role.
-From August 2003 to 2004, Williams obtained a Master of Defence Studies from the Royal Military College.
-Following a promotion to Lt. col. in June 2005, he was appointed Commanding Officer of 437 Transport Squadron. He held the post for two years, serving for six months as commanding Officer, Theatre Support Element at camp mirage.
-In 2006, Williams was posted to the Directorate of Air Requirements where he served as project director for the airlift capability projects.
-Williams took command of 8 Wing/CFB Trenton at a ceremony on July 14, 2009.
-He is married, but Williams and his wife, who lives in Ottawa, have no children.
Showing posts with label Who Is He?. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Who Is He?. Show all posts
Friday, February 12, 2010
Col. Russell Williams’ double life?
Top officer facing murder charges commanded Canada’s largest air base, flew top diplomats by Michael Friscolanti
Monday, February 8, 2010 6:49pm
The commander of one of Canada’s largest military bases is in a prison cell today, accused of murdering two Ontario women—including a fellow service member—and sexually assaulting two others.
Col. Russell Williams, a career air force officer, was the top man at CFB Trenton, the same Ontario base that has welcomed home the flag-draped caskets of every Canadian soldier killed in Afghanistan. But on Sunday night, police slapped him with another label: serial predator.
Investigators are hesitant to reveal specifics, but the charge sheet speaks for itself, accusing the once-impeccable colonel of leading a secret double life of rape and murder. In September, police say he broke into a pair of homes and attacked two women (both victims lived near Tweed, the same Ontario hamlet where Williams resided). His next alleged victim was Marie-France Comeau, a 38-year-old corporal who was also stationed at CFB Trenton. She was killed inside her home in late-November, her lifeless body discovered by her boyfriend. And this morning, detectives discovered the remains of a second slain woman: 27-year-old Jessica Lloyd of Belleville, Ont., who was missing since Jan. 28. Arrested in Ottawa Sunday night, Williams now faces two counts each of first-degree murder, forcible confinement, break and enter, and sexual assault.
Police are not saying whether the murders were random, or if the colonel, who is married with no children, had a previous relationship with either of the women. Speaking at a press conference today, Detective-Inspector Chris Nicholas of the Ontario Provincial Police also refused to reveal what specific evidence led them to Williams—a man whose 23-year career included a stint flying the VIP Challenger jets used by prime ministers and other dignitaries. Nicholas would only say that Williams came first came to their attention Feb. 4, when officers were questioning motorists on the same rural highway where Lloyd lived. There was “a singularity” in all the incidents, Nicholas said, without providing details. He did say this, however: “We are certainly tracking the movements of where this man has been over the past several years, and we’re continuing on with our investigation.”
Dressed in a blue prison jumpsuit, Williams made a brief appearance today in a Belleville courtroom. He stated his full name, said he understood the charges, and was remanded in custody until another hearing scheduled for Feb. 18.
Needless to say, news of his arrest sent shockwaves through the Department of National Defence, where Williams seemed destined for an eventual promotion to general. As commander of 8 Wing Trenton, he was already in charge of the country’s busiest airbase, a sprawling facility between Ottawa and Toronto that houses transport planes, search and rescue aircraft, and Canada’s Disaster Assistance Response Team (DART). He took over the top job in July. “These are exciting times for the air force,” he said at the time. “I am confident that the team here is up to the task and I look forward to getting right into that work.”
Today, Lieutenant-General André Deschamps, Chief of the Air Staff, issued a far more somber statement. “This situation affects us all and I wish to extend my deepest sympathies to the families of those affected by these tragic events,” he said. “Although one is considered innocent until proven guilty, in light of the seriousness of the charges, and in consideration of the high level of responsibilities attached to the position of Wing Commander, an interim Wing Commander for 8 Wing Trenton will soon be appointed…The Canadian Forces hold their members to a very high standard of conduct and performance, in Canada or abroad, on or off military duty. I confirm that the Air Force is fully supporting civilian authorities in the conduct of the current matter.”
A self-described “avid golfer, keen photographer, fisherman and runner,” Williams enrolled in the Canadian Forces in 1987 after earning an economics and political science degree from the University of Toronto. He received his flying wings in 1990 and two years later was posted to 434 (Combat Support) Squadron in Shearwater, where he flew the CC144 Challenger in the electronic warfare/coastal patrol role. He was subsequently posted to 412 (Transport) Squadron in Ottawa, where he continued to fly the Challenger, this time hauling VIPs. Promoted to major in 1999 and lieutenant-colonel in 2004, he also served as commanding officer at Camp Mirage, the ultra-secretive forward logistics base that the government has never officially acknowledged, but is widely reported to be in Dubai. In January 2009, he was posted to the Canadian Forces Language School in Gatineau, Que., for a six-month period of French training, his last step before Trenton.
Monday, February 8, 2010 6:49pm
The commander of one of Canada’s largest military bases is in a prison cell today, accused of murdering two Ontario women—including a fellow service member—and sexually assaulting two others.
Col. Russell Williams, a career air force officer, was the top man at CFB Trenton, the same Ontario base that has welcomed home the flag-draped caskets of every Canadian soldier killed in Afghanistan. But on Sunday night, police slapped him with another label: serial predator.
Investigators are hesitant to reveal specifics, but the charge sheet speaks for itself, accusing the once-impeccable colonel of leading a secret double life of rape and murder. In September, police say he broke into a pair of homes and attacked two women (both victims lived near Tweed, the same Ontario hamlet where Williams resided). His next alleged victim was Marie-France Comeau, a 38-year-old corporal who was also stationed at CFB Trenton. She was killed inside her home in late-November, her lifeless body discovered by her boyfriend. And this morning, detectives discovered the remains of a second slain woman: 27-year-old Jessica Lloyd of Belleville, Ont., who was missing since Jan. 28. Arrested in Ottawa Sunday night, Williams now faces two counts each of first-degree murder, forcible confinement, break and enter, and sexual assault.
Police are not saying whether the murders were random, or if the colonel, who is married with no children, had a previous relationship with either of the women. Speaking at a press conference today, Detective-Inspector Chris Nicholas of the Ontario Provincial Police also refused to reveal what specific evidence led them to Williams—a man whose 23-year career included a stint flying the VIP Challenger jets used by prime ministers and other dignitaries. Nicholas would only say that Williams came first came to their attention Feb. 4, when officers were questioning motorists on the same rural highway where Lloyd lived. There was “a singularity” in all the incidents, Nicholas said, without providing details. He did say this, however: “We are certainly tracking the movements of where this man has been over the past several years, and we’re continuing on with our investigation.”
Dressed in a blue prison jumpsuit, Williams made a brief appearance today in a Belleville courtroom. He stated his full name, said he understood the charges, and was remanded in custody until another hearing scheduled for Feb. 18.
Needless to say, news of his arrest sent shockwaves through the Department of National Defence, where Williams seemed destined for an eventual promotion to general. As commander of 8 Wing Trenton, he was already in charge of the country’s busiest airbase, a sprawling facility between Ottawa and Toronto that houses transport planes, search and rescue aircraft, and Canada’s Disaster Assistance Response Team (DART). He took over the top job in July. “These are exciting times for the air force,” he said at the time. “I am confident that the team here is up to the task and I look forward to getting right into that work.”
Today, Lieutenant-General André Deschamps, Chief of the Air Staff, issued a far more somber statement. “This situation affects us all and I wish to extend my deepest sympathies to the families of those affected by these tragic events,” he said. “Although one is considered innocent until proven guilty, in light of the seriousness of the charges, and in consideration of the high level of responsibilities attached to the position of Wing Commander, an interim Wing Commander for 8 Wing Trenton will soon be appointed…The Canadian Forces hold their members to a very high standard of conduct and performance, in Canada or abroad, on or off military duty. I confirm that the Air Force is fully supporting civilian authorities in the conduct of the current matter.”
A self-described “avid golfer, keen photographer, fisherman and runner,” Williams enrolled in the Canadian Forces in 1987 after earning an economics and political science degree from the University of Toronto. He received his flying wings in 1990 and two years later was posted to 434 (Combat Support) Squadron in Shearwater, where he flew the CC144 Challenger in the electronic warfare/coastal patrol role. He was subsequently posted to 412 (Transport) Squadron in Ottawa, where he continued to fly the Challenger, this time hauling VIPs. Promoted to major in 1999 and lieutenant-colonel in 2004, he also served as commanding officer at Camp Mirage, the ultra-secretive forward logistics base that the government has never officially acknowledged, but is widely reported to be in Dubai. In January 2009, he was posted to the Canadian Forces Language School in Gatineau, Que., for a six-month period of French training, his last step before Trenton.
Colonel Russ Williams: a profile
Mary Vallis, National Post
Published: Monday, February 08, 2010
By all accounts, Colonel Russ Williams was an ambitious military man. He rose quickly through the ranks to top roles that allowed him to meet the Queen, greet the Olympic torch, fly with Canada's most important dignitaries and preside over a massive relief effort to help victims of Haiti's earthquake.
The pilot and his wife, Mary Elizabeth, have been renovating a house in Ottawa, police said at a press conference yesterday. The couple, both avid golfers, also have a cottage in Tweed, Ont., which was cordoned off with police tape yesterday as investigators continued to probe the military man's involvement with the murders of two women, one of whom was a soldier at Canadian Forces Base Trenton.
Col. Williams assumed command of 8 Wing Trenton in July 2009, after 22 years with the Canadian Forces. He was promoted to his current rank just six months earlier.
"These are exciting times for the air force," Col. Williams, former commander of Trenton's 437 "Husky" Transport Squadron, said at the time. "I am confident that the team here is up to the task and I look forward to getting right into that work."
According to an official biography published by the Department of National Defence, Col. Williams was also a "keen photographer," a fisherman and runner. The fitness of his troops was one of his top priorities.
"Fitness is vital," he told The Contact, CFB Trenton's base newspaper, when he took up his current role. "The Air Force has changed a lot in the past 10 years, in terms of the types of operations we conduct and support, and I think it's become very obvious to all of us that we need to step into operations on short notice. And that is only going to be easier if each of us is in good physical and mental condition."
His accomplished career began in 1987, after he graduated from the University of Toronto with a degree in economics and enrolled in the Canadian Forces. Within three years, he earned his wings and worked as an instructor on the CT-134 Beech Musketeer at 3 Canadian Forces Flying Training School in Portage la Prairie, Man.
By 1992, Col. Williams had moved across the country to CFB Shearwater in Nova Scotia, where he patrolled the coast in a CC144 Challenger, a type of airplane that is also used to fly dignitaries such as the Prime Minister and Governor-General. Indeed, Col. Williams moved to Ottawa and took up that role with the 412 Transport Squadron before he was posted to Director General Military Careers.
After graduating with a Master in Defence Studies from the Royal Military College in Kingston, Ont., he was promoted to Lieutenant-Colonel and became Commanding Officer of 437 Squadron at CFB Trenton. During his two years in the post, he served for six months as the Commanding Officer Theatre Support Element for Camp Mirage, a secret military base in the Middle East.
Photographs show him with both Peter MacKay, the Defence Minister, and General Walter Natynczyk, chief of the defence staff.
As his string of high-profile postings continued, Col. Williams enrolled in French language training in Gatineau, Que., and was promoted to Colonel. In an interview with The Contact about his new role, Col. Williams remained humble.
"Certainly, I was keen to get the opportunity, but you never know," he said. "There are a number of qualified people who could do the job and that's why I say that I feel very fortunate to have been appointed."
Published: Monday, February 08, 2010
By all accounts, Colonel Russ Williams was an ambitious military man. He rose quickly through the ranks to top roles that allowed him to meet the Queen, greet the Olympic torch, fly with Canada's most important dignitaries and preside over a massive relief effort to help victims of Haiti's earthquake.
The pilot and his wife, Mary Elizabeth, have been renovating a house in Ottawa, police said at a press conference yesterday. The couple, both avid golfers, also have a cottage in Tweed, Ont., which was cordoned off with police tape yesterday as investigators continued to probe the military man's involvement with the murders of two women, one of whom was a soldier at Canadian Forces Base Trenton.
Col. Williams assumed command of 8 Wing Trenton in July 2009, after 22 years with the Canadian Forces. He was promoted to his current rank just six months earlier.
"These are exciting times for the air force," Col. Williams, former commander of Trenton's 437 "Husky" Transport Squadron, said at the time. "I am confident that the team here is up to the task and I look forward to getting right into that work."
According to an official biography published by the Department of National Defence, Col. Williams was also a "keen photographer," a fisherman and runner. The fitness of his troops was one of his top priorities.
"Fitness is vital," he told The Contact, CFB Trenton's base newspaper, when he took up his current role. "The Air Force has changed a lot in the past 10 years, in terms of the types of operations we conduct and support, and I think it's become very obvious to all of us that we need to step into operations on short notice. And that is only going to be easier if each of us is in good physical and mental condition."
His accomplished career began in 1987, after he graduated from the University of Toronto with a degree in economics and enrolled in the Canadian Forces. Within three years, he earned his wings and worked as an instructor on the CT-134 Beech Musketeer at 3 Canadian Forces Flying Training School in Portage la Prairie, Man.
By 1992, Col. Williams had moved across the country to CFB Shearwater in Nova Scotia, where he patrolled the coast in a CC144 Challenger, a type of airplane that is also used to fly dignitaries such as the Prime Minister and Governor-General. Indeed, Col. Williams moved to Ottawa and took up that role with the 412 Transport Squadron before he was posted to Director General Military Careers.
After graduating with a Master in Defence Studies from the Royal Military College in Kingston, Ont., he was promoted to Lieutenant-Colonel and became Commanding Officer of 437 Squadron at CFB Trenton. During his two years in the post, he served for six months as the Commanding Officer Theatre Support Element for Camp Mirage, a secret military base in the Middle East.
Photographs show him with both Peter MacKay, the Defence Minister, and General Walter Natynczyk, chief of the defence staff.
As his string of high-profile postings continued, Col. Williams enrolled in French language training in Gatineau, Que., and was promoted to Colonel. In an interview with The Contact about his new role, Col. Williams remained humble.
"Certainly, I was keen to get the opportunity, but you never know," he said. "There are a number of qualified people who could do the job and that's why I say that I feel very fortunate to have been appointed."
Biography: Col. Russell Williams
Canadian Forces - Commander charged
Biography: Col. Russell Williams
Last Updated: Wednesday, February 10, 2010 | 9:57 PM ET
CBC News
Col. Russell Williams, a high-ranking Canadian military commander who has met with senior politicians and been quoted extensively about the war in Afghanistan and the earthquake in Haiti, is charged with first-degree murder in the deaths of two women from eastern Ontario.
Williams, of Tweed, Ont., commander of Canadian Forces Base Trenton, was arrested Sunday in Ottawa and charged with the slayings of Jessica Lloyd, 27, and Cpl. Marie-France Comeau, 38.
He was also charged with forcible confinement, breaking and entering, and sexual assault in relation to two home invasions in the Tweed area in September 2009. Here's a look at key points in Williams' 23-year military career:
1987
Williams, who was born on March 7, 1963, joins the Canadian Forces after getting a degree in economics and political science from the University of Toronto.
1990
Williams earns his wings and is posted to 3 Canadian Forces Flying Training School, based in Portage La Prairie, Man., where he serves for two years as an instructor.
1992
Col. Russell Williams is facing two first-degree murder charges and two sexual assault charges. Col. Russell Williams is facing two first-degree murder charges and two sexual assault charges. (Gerri Weatherbee/Northumberland Today)
Williams is posted to 434 Combat Support Squadron in Shearwater, N.S., where he flies the CC-144 Challenger in the electronic warfare and coastal patrol role.
He is then posted to the 412 Transport Squadron in Ottawa, where he transports VIPs, including high-ranking government officials and foreign dignitaries, also on Challengers.
November 1999
Williams is promoted major and is posted to Director General Military Careers, where he serves as the multi-engine pilot career manager.
August 2003 to June 2004
Williams obtains a master's of defence studies from the Royal Military College in Kingston, Ont.
June 2004
Williams is promoted to lieutenant-colonel and appointed commanding officer of 437 Transport Squadron in Trenton, Ont., a post he held for two years.
December 2005 to June 2006
Williams is the commanding officer at Camp Mirage, the Canadian Forces forward logistics base that's not officially acknowledged by the government or military but has been widely reported to be near Dubai.
July 2006
Williams is posted to the Directorate of Air Requirements, where he served as project director for the Airlift Capability Projects Strategic (CC177 Globemaster III) and Tactical (CC130J Hercules J), and Fixed-Wing Search and Rescue.
January 2009
Williams is posted to the Canadian Forces Language School in Gatineau, Que., for six months of French-language training, during which he is promoted colonel.
July 15, 2009
Williams succeeds Col. Mike Hood as commanding officer at CFB Trenton.
Dec. 11, 2009
Williams welcomes the Olympic torch when it stops in Trenton. " It's very exciting to be a part of this," he says.
Jan. 30, 2010
Cpl. Marie-France Comeau, 38, left, was slain Nov. 25, 2009. The body of Jessica Lloyd, 27, right, was found by police on Feb. 8. Cpl. Marie-France Comeau, 38, left, was slain Nov. 25, 2009. The body of Jessica Lloyd, 27, right, was found by police on Feb. 8. (Canadian Press)
Williams is interviewed about 8 Wing's participation in Haiti relief. He says that in addition to Haiti, 8 Wing co-ordinates the resupply for Canada's mission in Afghanistan and air support for the Vancouver Olympics, which has a significant military presence.
Feb. 7
Williams is arrested in Ottawa and charged with two counts of first-degree murder in the deaths of Jessica Lloyd, 27, and Cpl. Marie-France Comeau, 38.
He is also charged with two sexual assaults that happened in Tweed in September.
Additional information
According to Williams's DND profile, he is a keen photographer, fisherman and runner. He and his wife, Mary-Elizabeth Harriman, have homes in Tweed, Ont., which is about 60 kilometres northeast of CFB Trenton, and in Ottawa.
Biography: Col. Russell Williams
Last Updated: Wednesday, February 10, 2010 | 9:57 PM ET
CBC News
Col. Russell Williams, a high-ranking Canadian military commander who has met with senior politicians and been quoted extensively about the war in Afghanistan and the earthquake in Haiti, is charged with first-degree murder in the deaths of two women from eastern Ontario.
Williams, of Tweed, Ont., commander of Canadian Forces Base Trenton, was arrested Sunday in Ottawa and charged with the slayings of Jessica Lloyd, 27, and Cpl. Marie-France Comeau, 38.
He was also charged with forcible confinement, breaking and entering, and sexual assault in relation to two home invasions in the Tweed area in September 2009. Here's a look at key points in Williams' 23-year military career:
1987
Williams, who was born on March 7, 1963, joins the Canadian Forces after getting a degree in economics and political science from the University of Toronto.
1990
Williams earns his wings and is posted to 3 Canadian Forces Flying Training School, based in Portage La Prairie, Man., where he serves for two years as an instructor.
1992
Col. Russell Williams is facing two first-degree murder charges and two sexual assault charges. Col. Russell Williams is facing two first-degree murder charges and two sexual assault charges. (Gerri Weatherbee/Northumberland Today)
Williams is posted to 434 Combat Support Squadron in Shearwater, N.S., where he flies the CC-144 Challenger in the electronic warfare and coastal patrol role.
He is then posted to the 412 Transport Squadron in Ottawa, where he transports VIPs, including high-ranking government officials and foreign dignitaries, also on Challengers.
November 1999
Williams is promoted major and is posted to Director General Military Careers, where he serves as the multi-engine pilot career manager.
August 2003 to June 2004
Williams obtains a master's of defence studies from the Royal Military College in Kingston, Ont.
June 2004
Williams is promoted to lieutenant-colonel and appointed commanding officer of 437 Transport Squadron in Trenton, Ont., a post he held for two years.
December 2005 to June 2006
Williams is the commanding officer at Camp Mirage, the Canadian Forces forward logistics base that's not officially acknowledged by the government or military but has been widely reported to be near Dubai.
July 2006
Williams is posted to the Directorate of Air Requirements, where he served as project director for the Airlift Capability Projects Strategic (CC177 Globemaster III) and Tactical (CC130J Hercules J), and Fixed-Wing Search and Rescue.
January 2009
Williams is posted to the Canadian Forces Language School in Gatineau, Que., for six months of French-language training, during which he is promoted colonel.
July 15, 2009
Williams succeeds Col. Mike Hood as commanding officer at CFB Trenton.
Dec. 11, 2009
Williams welcomes the Olympic torch when it stops in Trenton. " It's very exciting to be a part of this," he says.
Jan. 30, 2010
Cpl. Marie-France Comeau, 38, left, was slain Nov. 25, 2009. The body of Jessica Lloyd, 27, right, was found by police on Feb. 8. Cpl. Marie-France Comeau, 38, left, was slain Nov. 25, 2009. The body of Jessica Lloyd, 27, right, was found by police on Feb. 8. (Canadian Press)
Williams is interviewed about 8 Wing's participation in Haiti relief. He says that in addition to Haiti, 8 Wing co-ordinates the resupply for Canada's mission in Afghanistan and air support for the Vancouver Olympics, which has a significant military presence.
Feb. 7
Williams is arrested in Ottawa and charged with two counts of first-degree murder in the deaths of Jessica Lloyd, 27, and Cpl. Marie-France Comeau, 38.
He is also charged with two sexual assaults that happened in Tweed in September.
Additional information
According to Williams's DND profile, he is a keen photographer, fisherman and runner. He and his wife, Mary-Elizabeth Harriman, have homes in Tweed, Ont., which is about 60 kilometres northeast of CFB Trenton, and in Ottawa.
Col. Russell Williams - Who Is He?
About Col. Russ Williams
Posted By LUKE HENDRY, THE INTELLIGENCER
Posted February 10th, 2010
As the top officer of Canada's largest air force base, Col. David Russ Williams is a familiar face in the Quinte region.
Williams, 46, is married to Mary Elizabeth Harriman. They have no children.
Williams is quiet and at times awkward, yet personable.
In an Intelligencer interview in January, he appeared relaxed, focused and happy with his job as base commander, a role he has held since July.
"It's been outstanding," he said. "It's been a lot of fun but very, very busy. What has really impressed me in the last few months is how outstanding the support from the local community continues to be. I can think of very few events that have been anything less than positive."
The job of base commander requires an officer to be a visible public figure: the commander is host of an annual public golf tournament and Christmas reception, takes part in charity events and speaks to municipal councils and service clubs.
Williams also was one of Trenton's Olympic torch bearers during the flame's 2009 pass through the region. More recently, he oversaw aid flights to Haiti and escorted defence minister Peter MacKay and Gen. Walt Natynczyk, Canada's chief of defence staff, around the base.
His military resumé is relatively unremarkable for an officer of his rank: he's flown with various squadrons and has had some administrative desk jobs in Ottawa.
The officer earned a degree in economics and political science from the University of Toronto.
He enlisted in the Canadian Forces in 1987 and earned his pilot's wings in 1990.
Williams was a flight instructor with 3 Canadian Forces Flying Training School in Portage la Prairie, Man.
He was stationed with 434 Combat Support Squadron in Shearwater, N.S., where he flew the CC-144 Challenger, a small passenger jet, for coastal patrol and electronic warfare, such as disrupting enemy communications.
Williams was eventually transferred to 412 Transport Squadron. Though technically a Trenton unit, its Challengers are based in Ottawa. It was with this squadron that Williams began piloting VIPs to various destinations.
A promotion to major came in 1999 along with a job as a career manager for military pilots of multi-engine planes.
Williams studied in Kingston's Royal Military College command and staff course from August 2003 to 2004, earning a Master of Defence Studies before being promoted to lieutenant-colonel.
He was given command of Trenton's 437 "Husky" Transport Squadron in 2004.
His duties with 437 Squadron also included flying high-profile Canadian dignitaries around the globe in the squadron's specially-equipped CC-150 Polaris, a modified version of the Airbus A310.
Though it's not clear just which VIPs were aboard those flights, the squadron is routinely assigned to high-profile missions in which prime ministers and the governor general travel the world.
After departing Trenton, Williams worked with the military's Directorate of Air Requirements where, in 2006, he began serving as a project director. There, he was involved in the studies on Canada's needs for heavy-lift aircraft, the new CC-130J Hercules and CC-177 Globemaster III transports and other search and rescue planes.
Williams took command of CFB Trenton and 8 Wing, the base's air force element on July 14, 2009.
The base is the air force's transportation hub, with virtually all personnel and cargo going to and from Canada passing through Trenton. The base is also a major employer and in the midst of nearly $1 billion in infrastructure development.
Williams said in January that development boom was an obvious good-news story but the disruptions it causes can be distracting for staff.
"We just need to keep our eyes on the ball so that our operations don't suffer," Williams said.
"My main concern is that we're able to continue operations, which is the reason we're here, but at the same time make sure that people are keeping in mind that they ought not get too distracted by the day-to-day inconveniences."
His official military biography described Williams as an athlete and photographer.
Asked in an interview what he liked to photograph, Williams fumbled a little before responding with a laugh that he had many pictures of his car, including one he kept on his Blackberry. He said he also enjoyed photographing nature scenes.
- - -
Colonel David Russell Williams?
-Williams enrolled in the Canadian Force in 1987, after obtaining an economic and political science degree from the University of Toronto
-After receiving his wings in 1990, Williams was posted to 434 (Combat Support) Squadron in Shearwater, NS, where he flew the CC144 Challenger. Later he was posted to the 412 Transport Squadron in Ottawa where he fly the Challenger, this time in the VIP transport role.
-From August 2003 to 2004, Williams obtained a Master of Defence Studies from the Royal Military College.
-Following a promotion to Lt. col. in June 2005, he was appointed Commanding Officer of 437 Transport Squadron. He held the post for two years, serving for six months as commanding Officer, Theatre Support Element at camp mirage.
-In 2006, Williams was posted to the Directorate of Air Requirements where he served as project director for the airlift capability projects.
-Williams took command of 8 Wing/CFB Trenton at a ceremony on July 14, 2009.
-He is married, but Williams and his wife, who lives in Ottawa, have no children.
Posted By LUKE HENDRY, THE INTELLIGENCER
Posted February 10th, 2010
As the top officer of Canada's largest air force base, Col. David Russ Williams is a familiar face in the Quinte region.
Williams, 46, is married to Mary Elizabeth Harriman. They have no children.
Williams is quiet and at times awkward, yet personable.
In an Intelligencer interview in January, he appeared relaxed, focused and happy with his job as base commander, a role he has held since July.
"It's been outstanding," he said. "It's been a lot of fun but very, very busy. What has really impressed me in the last few months is how outstanding the support from the local community continues to be. I can think of very few events that have been anything less than positive."
The job of base commander requires an officer to be a visible public figure: the commander is host of an annual public golf tournament and Christmas reception, takes part in charity events and speaks to municipal councils and service clubs.
Williams also was one of Trenton's Olympic torch bearers during the flame's 2009 pass through the region. More recently, he oversaw aid flights to Haiti and escorted defence minister Peter MacKay and Gen. Walt Natynczyk, Canada's chief of defence staff, around the base.
His military resumé is relatively unremarkable for an officer of his rank: he's flown with various squadrons and has had some administrative desk jobs in Ottawa.
The officer earned a degree in economics and political science from the University of Toronto.
He enlisted in the Canadian Forces in 1987 and earned his pilot's wings in 1990.
Williams was a flight instructor with 3 Canadian Forces Flying Training School in Portage la Prairie, Man.
He was stationed with 434 Combat Support Squadron in Shearwater, N.S., where he flew the CC-144 Challenger, a small passenger jet, for coastal patrol and electronic warfare, such as disrupting enemy communications.
Williams was eventually transferred to 412 Transport Squadron. Though technically a Trenton unit, its Challengers are based in Ottawa. It was with this squadron that Williams began piloting VIPs to various destinations.
A promotion to major came in 1999 along with a job as a career manager for military pilots of multi-engine planes.
Williams studied in Kingston's Royal Military College command and staff course from August 2003 to 2004, earning a Master of Defence Studies before being promoted to lieutenant-colonel.
He was given command of Trenton's 437 "Husky" Transport Squadron in 2004.
His duties with 437 Squadron also included flying high-profile Canadian dignitaries around the globe in the squadron's specially-equipped CC-150 Polaris, a modified version of the Airbus A310.
Though it's not clear just which VIPs were aboard those flights, the squadron is routinely assigned to high-profile missions in which prime ministers and the governor general travel the world.
After departing Trenton, Williams worked with the military's Directorate of Air Requirements where, in 2006, he began serving as a project director. There, he was involved in the studies on Canada's needs for heavy-lift aircraft, the new CC-130J Hercules and CC-177 Globemaster III transports and other search and rescue planes.
Williams took command of CFB Trenton and 8 Wing, the base's air force element on July 14, 2009.
The base is the air force's transportation hub, with virtually all personnel and cargo going to and from Canada passing through Trenton. The base is also a major employer and in the midst of nearly $1 billion in infrastructure development.
Williams said in January that development boom was an obvious good-news story but the disruptions it causes can be distracting for staff.
"We just need to keep our eyes on the ball so that our operations don't suffer," Williams said.
"My main concern is that we're able to continue operations, which is the reason we're here, but at the same time make sure that people are keeping in mind that they ought not get too distracted by the day-to-day inconveniences."
His official military biography described Williams as an athlete and photographer.
Asked in an interview what he liked to photograph, Williams fumbled a little before responding with a laugh that he had many pictures of his car, including one he kept on his Blackberry. He said he also enjoyed photographing nature scenes.
- - -
Colonel David Russell Williams?
-Williams enrolled in the Canadian Force in 1987, after obtaining an economic and political science degree from the University of Toronto
-After receiving his wings in 1990, Williams was posted to 434 (Combat Support) Squadron in Shearwater, NS, where he flew the CC144 Challenger. Later he was posted to the 412 Transport Squadron in Ottawa where he fly the Challenger, this time in the VIP transport role.
-From August 2003 to 2004, Williams obtained a Master of Defence Studies from the Royal Military College.
-Following a promotion to Lt. col. in June 2005, he was appointed Commanding Officer of 437 Transport Squadron. He held the post for two years, serving for six months as commanding Officer, Theatre Support Element at camp mirage.
-In 2006, Williams was posted to the Directorate of Air Requirements where he served as project director for the airlift capability projects.
-Williams took command of 8 Wing/CFB Trenton at a ceremony on July 14, 2009.
-He is married, but Williams and his wife, who lives in Ottawa, have no children.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
