New Glasgow resident parades with Ceremonial Guard
A New Glasgow resident has been chosen to be among the ranks of a longstanding Canadian tradition.
With their scarlets and their bearskin headdresses, the Ceremonial Guard, the band of the Ceremonial Guard and the pipes and drums of the Ceremonial Guard are considered the most recognizable military unit in Canada. For more than 50 years the Changing of the Guard has been a top Ottawa summer attraction for thousands of visitors to Parliament Hill. They also provide sentries at Rideau Hall, the official residence of Governor General Julie Payette.
This year, Pictou County resident Jared Bailey has the opportunity to spend his summer as part of the unit.
Bailey is a soldier and is taking advantage of the Canadian Army’s commitment to provide guaranteed full-time summer employment to successful applicants to the primary reserves. The Ceremonial Guard is one of the many opportunities reservists like Bailey can be employed in over a fourmonth period in the summer time.
A committed member of the Canadian Forces, Bailey is always up for a challenge.
“I wanted to serve my country,” he said. “Parading with the Ceremonial Guard in our nation’s capital is a great way to do this.”
Bailey’s summer began with three weeks of intensive drill training during which participants master the precision movements, attain a high standard of dress and deportment, undergo extensive physical fitness training and are fitted and tailored in the scarlet uniform. During the summer Bailey will also participate in Ceremonial Guard appearances at Canada Day, around eastern Ontario, as well as the culmination event known as Fortissimo.
Fortissimo is a musical spectacular event that takes place on the lawns of Parliament Hill and features massed military bands, pipes and drums, guest performers and the soldiers of the Ceremonial Guard. It will take place July 19 to 21.