Reserves opening armoury to the public
Saturday event to include displays, activities, recruitment information
For Cpl. Robert Weatherby, the benefits of joining the Canadian Army Reserves are many.
“I like shooting the firearms, I like the teamwork and working with likeminded people; it’s fun for me,” said Weatherby, of the Nova Scotia Highlanders. “It’s taught me hard work and it’s got me in better shape than I ever was before.”
Cpl. Weatherby, 25, has always been interested in a career in the military, and joining the reserves came naturally.
“As a kid, even in elementary school, I always wanted to join the military, and one day in high school a couple of recruiters showed up and I just jumped on the opportunity.”
Cpl. Weatherby, from Tatamagouche, has been a reservist for nine years.
From September to May, training takes place on Thursday evenings at the Truro Armouries. Reserve members are also required to train one weekend per month.
The reserves is a stepping stone to the regular armed forces and
also provides members with an opportunity to test the waters before making a decision on their future in the military.
“I might eventually transfer over to reg force and be a weapons tech or go infantry,” Weatherby said of his future plans.
On Saturday, Sept. 30, the Canadian Army Reserves will open their doors to the public with an open house at the Truro Armoury, 126 Willow St., Truro, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The event will give people a chance to become more familiar with the reserves and learn the important role they play in both the military and in their communities.
“The reserves are part of the Canadian Armed Forces, but members of the reserves are part of their communities, and as such we are extending ourselves so the community can come and see what we are about and what we do,” said Capt. Dan McCooeye, adjutant for the Nova Scotia Highlanders.
There will be displays, conversations and activities, including a simulated arms trainer. There will also be a pipes and drums band from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.
Recruitment officers will be on hand to answer questions and provide information to those who are considering a career in the military.
“We’re creating a dialogue where people can come and ask questions and we can share what we’re about … and if they, themselves, want to get involved then we are here to answer questions and to demonstrate some of the capabilities we are able to produce within the Canadian Armed Forces,” said McCooye.
Along with Truro, open houses will be held at armouries in Pictou and Springhill on Saturday.