Thousands of Canadian Army Reservists participate in exercises across the country

Starting August 8 and throughout the month, approximately 4800 Canadian soldiers, mostly Army Reserve Force members, are taking part in several exercises across the country. These exercises aim to further refine the Canadian Army’s operational capabilities in various situations and environments. An interoperability component is also included, with U.S. soldiers participating in the training.

The training is focused on developing and testing core battle skills in realistic scenarios, with the goal of enhancing cohesion and teamwork. It is an important way for Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) personnel to prepare for international operations and in case of a domestic emergency.

Army Reservists have made substantial contributions to Canada’s international and domestic operations. They are members of the community who are fully-trained soldiers and many have combat experience. Most have full-time jobs or go to school and choose to serve in the CAF part-time.

Quick Facts

The list of Reserve exercises is as follows:

NOBLE GUERRIER
Location: Valcartier, Québec
Dates: August 8 – 16, 2015
Size: Approximately 1500 soldiers
Lead: 2nd Canadian Division

WESTERN DEFENDER
Locations: Shilo, Manitoba, Wainwright, Alberta, and Chilcotin, British Columbia
Dates: August 10 – 23, 2015
Size: Approximately 850 soldiers (U.S. soldiers will be participating)
Lead: 3rd Canadian Division

STALWART GUARDIAN
Location: Petawawa, Ontario
Dates: August 15 – 30, 2015
Size: Approximately 1500 soldiers (U.S. soldiers will be participating)
Lead: 4th Canadian Division

STRIDENT TRACER
Location: Gagetown, New Brunswick
Dates: August 22 – 28, 2015
Size: Approximately 960 soldiers (U.S. soldiers will be participating)
Lead: 5th Canadian Division

Quotes:
“Reservists play a key role in meeting the operational needs of the Canadian Army. Effective training enables the men and women of the Army Reserve to remain strong, proud and ready to contribute to security and defence requirements across the country and abroad.”

Lieutenant-General Marquis Hainse, Commander Canadian Army

“Collective training exercises enable our Reservists to remain fully focused and prepared year-round. The challenging conditions allow the troops to practise and further sharpen their skills in complex, realistic, operations-focused environments.”

Brigadier-General Kelly Woiden, Chief of Staff Army Reserves

Associated Links
Canadian Army Reserves
Canada First Defence Strategy

Canadian Army Links
Canadian Army website
Canadian Army Facebook
Canadian Army Twitter
Canadian Army YouTube
Canadian Army Flickr

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