Reservists train in harsh winter conditions with Alaska National Guard
News release
February 23, 2018 – Fort Greely, Alaska – National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces
Canadian Army Reserve soldiers will participate in winter survival training with the United States’ Alaska National Guard in Fort Greely, Alaska as part of Exercise ARCTIC EAGLE from February 25 to March 8, 2018.
Through Strong, Secure, Engaged: Canada’s Defence Policy, the Canadian Armed Forces has committed to taking steps to further improve its presence and ability to operate in the Arctic.
During this U.S.-led exercise, infantry soldiers, combat engineers, medics and signallers from 39 Canadian Brigade Group (39 CBG), based in Vancouver, British Columbia, will learn how to operate effectively in harsh winter conditions. This cooperative effort will not only enhance the training and effectiveness of these Reservists to operate in remote regions, but will also enrich the close partnership shared with the U.S., in the defence of North America.
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Quotes
“I am excited for the great learning opportunity this exercise offers myself and my fellow Reservists. This is just one example of the unique and exceptional training that Reservists get to do as part-time members of the Canadian Army. The skills that we are honing with our United States partners will be brought back and shared with the rest of our Brigade to ensure we are all expanding our capabilities.”
Major C. W. MacKinnon, 39 Canadian Brigade Group Exercise Commanding Officer
Quick facts
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The Canadian Army Reserve Force forms an integral part of the Canadian Armed Forces, and contributes varied skills and backgrounds that enrich and strengthen the military.
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The Canadian Army recognizes the valuable contribution of its Reservists and is committed to ensuring the Army Reserve grows and develops as part of the Canadian Army team. To do this, the Canadian Army has developed a comprehensive program, Strengthening the Army Reserve, which will enhance the Army Reserve through recruiting additional troops, assigning specific mission tasks, synchronizing training, providing appropriate equipment and matching the right funding.
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The Canadian Army is committed to employing new and recently enrolled members of the Army Reserve. Starting this summer, Canadian Army Reservists can take part in the Full-Time Summer Employment program, which runs from May 1 to August 31. It is available to them during their first four years of service to gain unique and relevant work experience while learning distinctive skills.
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39 Canadian Brigade Group is an Army Reserve Formation consisting of a headquarters located in Vancouver, British Columbia and 11 Army Reserve units distributed throughout British Columbia.
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Contacts
Captain Graeme Kaine
Public Affairs Officer, 39 Canadian Brigade Group Headquarters
Tel: 604-225-2520 ext 2568
Cell: 604-365-4365
Email: Graeme.Kaine@forces.gc.ca