We promised outdoor adventure and – with the help of our sponsoring Regiment – we delivered in spades (and axes) last weekend! In “Exercise Pioneer Crossing” 72nd RCACC Capt. Leong and cadet Sgt. Ching joined members of the Seaforth Highlanders of Canada at one of their field exercises in Chilliwack and enjoyed an up-close and personal experience unlike any other. Under the watchful and helpful eyes of highly-trained reservists, Capt. Leong and C/Sgt. Ching observed and participated in two river crossings, received training on rope bridge construction, and night operations with the use of night goggles. Sgt Ching even had the opportunity to dress in full infantry soldier reservist kit!

[VIDEO: 72RCACC cadet Sgt. Ching crosses a water obstacle using river crossing equipment constructed on-site by the Assault Pioneers. Video: Capt. Leong]

Reservists in the Seaforth Regiment are among the first in Canada to receive training as Assault Pioneers. Assault Pioneers are a mix of an infantryman and a combat engineer and use a variety of tools to cross natural and man-made obstacles as well as breaching fortifications and construction of field defensive works, and other related duties. Oftentimes you can identify pioneers by a specialist skills badge on their uniform (like two crossed axes) or by their well-groomed beards! We are grateful to Sgt. Torrilo for helping us coordinate our activity with the Regiment, and to Lt. Define for his assistance in the field (and his ongoing support of the Seaforth army cadets).

[PHOTO: Reservists, including one former 72RCACC army cadet (and current university student), take notes as a leader gives direction. Photo: Capt. Leong]

Cadet units are sponsored by different Regiments across Canada. Vancouver’s Seaforth Highlanders of Canada sponsors seven units throughout the Lower Mainland and the Sunshine Coast. Ours, the 72^nd Seaforth Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corps, is the oldest cadet unit in British Columbia and operated out of the historic Seaforth Armoury on Burrard Street. If you know a young Canadian age 12-18 who would like to join, please send them to the “How to Join” page of this website.