439 Squadron take part in a maritime joint exercise

A crew from 439 Squadron took part in a joint exercise for the first time in the region along with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, Public Security Saguenay, the Sûreté du Québec, as well as volunteers of the Coast Guard auxiliary and the Quebec air search and rescue team ( SERABEC). The rescue simulation on the Saguenay River was organized during national drowning prevention week. The exercise scenario brought the various groups to respond to a distress call from a collision between two boats, with a man found in the water. "Our role was to transport a member of the intervention team that was injured during the operation. We also had the opportunity to practice some winching exercises, "said Lt. Christopher Gallinger of 439 Squadron. This training was a great oppor- tunity for the Bagotville military to build relationships with members of other organizations who were involved in the simulation. "We took advantage of this day to network, particularly with members of the RCMP with whom we planned another training exercise with at the port of Grande- Anse on last August 9th," adds Lt. Gallinger. Four different teams were able to participate in this exercise as it was a couple minutes from CFB Bagotville. "Often for a joint exercise with the RCMP we have had to go to Tadoussac or beyond. Being close to Bagotville is an important advantage," says the lieutenant. This new exercise will allow members of 439 Squadron to maintain their qualifications in maritime search and rescue.