For all those Canadian Forces families who have made or will make that "trip across the pond" and were fortunate to have had the extraordinary opportunity to explore the grounds of the great many castles, fortresses and palaces in Europe, you may find this book to be of interest. Many of us lived and worked within sight of a great many of these relics of the past, that often bear the marks of the long lines of European history from the middle ages to the present day. The medieval and more recent castles and chateaux that stood within a short drive of our overseas homes away from home that we often visited, still provide wonderful memories from our time overseas during the Cold War era. May this book revive many happy memories for those who shared in these adventures and explorations. May it also encourage others to do the same for those that may be lucky enough to follow!