2nd Canadian Rangers Patrol Group to travel 3,690 km on snowmobiles for Exercise Aqikgik

With a kickoff ceremony at the Royal Military College in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu,  the 2nd Canadian Ranger Patrol Group (2 CRPG) launched Exercise AQIKGIK on Dec. 15.

“Exercise AQIKGIK is an opportunity to showcase the Canadian Rangers’ determination, drive, and professionalism. The Rangers are an integral part of the 2nd Canadian Division and Joint Task Force East team. I would like to thank all the Canadian Rangers and Junior Canadian Rangers who have served in the last 70 years and congratulate them for their invaluable contribution to our national security and to their individual communities,” said BGen. Hercule Gosselin, Commander of the 2nd Canadian Division and Joint Task Force (East).

Taking place from Jan. 27 to March 17, 2017, exercise AQIKGIK is being held in honour of the 70th anniversary of the Canadian Rangers.

The exercise comprises of a snowmobile expedition to Indigenous communities in Northern Quebec and on the Lower North Shore. Starting in Waskaganish on James Bay, six teams of six Canadian Rangers will visit the 25 communities where 2 CRPG is located. These teams will also engage with the Ranger and Junior Canadian Ranger Patrols in each community.

“Exercise AQIKGIK 2017 will be the 2nd Canadian Ranger Patrol Group’s first time conducting a training exercise across its entire area of operations. This historic exercise will highlight the co‑operation between the Canadian Army and the communities of Northern Quebec and the Lower North Shore. Exercise AQIKGIK 2017 is without a doubt an extraordinary accomplishment, showcasing the Canadian Rangers’ operational capability, professionalism, and pride,” stated LCol. Bruno Plourde, Commander of the 2nd Canadian Ranger Patrol Group.

The Rangers will travel 3,690 km on snowmobiles.

The Canadian Rangers support the Canadian Armed Forces in northern, coastal and isolated areas of Canada by providing lightly-equipped, self-sufficient mobile forces to support domestic operations and protect Canada’s sovereignty.

Video clips will be posted on the official Facebook page of 2nd Canadian Division and 2 CRPG.