ST-JEAN, Quebec, Sept. 9, 2004 -- Sixty-five Aboriginal candidates, First Nations, Metis, and Inuit, will graduate from the Canadian Forces Aboriginal Entry Program (CFAEP) at Canadian Forces Leadership and Recruit School (CFLRS), in St-Jean, Que., on Friday, September 10. This year is the most successful course, with an enrolment of 20 new recruits - the largest enrolment since the program began in September 2000. A three-week Pre-Recruit Training Course (PRTC) is offered to Aboriginal persons across Canada to provide the opportunity to explore military careers before making the commitment to join the Canadian Forces (CF). Media representatives are invited to visit the Aboriginal candidates after the graduation parade, Building B131, St-Jean Garrison, at 9:30 a.m. At the graduation, Ms Susan Aglukark will sing the national anthem, Billy Two Rivers, a Mohawk Elder will offer a prayer, and the Mohawk Dance Troop from Khanawake will perform. Media representatives will have the opportunity to talk to the candidates, training staff and recruiters during the visit. Chief Phil Fontaine, National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations, will officiate as reviewing officer at the ceremony. Representatives from various Aboriginal organizations will also be in attendance. The candidates represent various Aboriginal communities and nations from across the country including those in Nunavut, the North West Territories, the Yukon Territory, British Columbia, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Labrador. Those who have decided to immediately join the Canadian Forces team will begin the Basic Military Qualification (basic training) course in two weeks. They have chosen occupations in the Navy, Army and Air Force, ranging from the combat arms, to medical technician and marine engineering mechanic to fire fighter. Others will have the opportunity to join at a later date. - 30 - Note to the Editor: Media wishing to attend either event are asked to contact Chief Petty Officer Debbie Eisan, a Diversity Officer with Canadian Forces Recruiting Group on cellular phone at (902) 221-4035 or alternatively, Ms. Carole Cellard, Communications Officer for CFLRS at (450) 358-0977, before the event to confirm location and other details.
