Strathcona’s in eFP Latvia

By Corporal Christopher Jones

As 1 CMBG once again takes on the task of filling out the Enhanced Forward Presence Battle Group Latvia (eFP BG), Strathcona’s are of course tasked with manning the eFP BGs Armoured Reconnaissance Troop.

We arrived in Latvia in Mid-June, to clear weather and trees everywhere. After a day to adjust to the time change it was on to work. We spent the time acquiring weapons, taking stock of our kit and vehicles, and seeing one of our own get promoted, MCpl Dylan “There isn’t enough protein in this” Braconnier. The Troop finished out the first week by running a three day range to zero rifles for the entire Canadian Contingent within the eFP BG. We even managed to fit some marksmanship training in between relays under the direction of WO Wallace “Call Sign Unicorn” Churchill, and the Infantry Recce and Sniper sections.

From there, LdSH(RC) soldiers did what they do best and zeroed both LAV 6.0 and TAPV armoured vehicles within the Troop. Other than a few fires on the range, things went smoothly.  In our off time made use of the extensive sporting facilities at Camp Adazi for some group cohesion and good old fashioned competition. Despite the best efforts of Cpl Matt “Soccer is a walking game” Bosa, we all descended into the Strathcona tradition of ignoring the rules of the sport when convenient. Tpr Seth “Bolt cutters” Wesloski has taken great advantage of parades to mingle with foreign soldiers and trade for patches.

The Troop began to shake out soon after, testing and developing our SOPs, working hand in hand with a section of Infantry Recce attached to the Troop. Our cam and concealment skills were tested in the wide open forests, and the Tankers amongst the Troop were quickly reminded that there is more to being an Armoured Soldier than tracks and a 120mm cannon.  As we continue to train and prepare for the upcoming confirmation exercise, we settle into our positions in the Troop, especially Cpls Christopher “What do I do?” Jones and Samuel “You need crypto, again?” Laperriere who are discovering that LAV 6.0 life really is pretty good.