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Canadian Forces Members Make an Impression at the Calgary Stampede

By: Lieutenant Peter Fuerbringer

Calgary, Alberta - Members from all three branches of the Canadian Forces converged on this year's Calgary Stampede, which took place July 10 - 16, 2006. The various displays from the Air Force, Army, and Navy focused on showing Canadians the types of activities the forces are involved in both at home and abroad. They also displayed some of the day to day life of Canadian Forces members.

"We are having a great time talking to people, and helping to dispel some of the myths about the Forces, our equipment, and what we are doing overseas. It is really rewarding to have the opportunity to connect with people and tell them more about what we do and why!" states Captain Joe Rehberg, a Griffon pilot with 408 Squadron based at CFB Edmonton, "Any time you get to clear up a misconception, it is a good thing."

This year's equipment displays at the Stampede include one LAV III, a C2 Leopard Tank, a G-Wagon, a Griffon Helicopter, and a CF-18 Hornet. The information booths were manned by members of HMCS Calgary , HMCS Victoria, 1 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group , and 41 Canadian Brigade Group.

CF Members made a positive impression on the droves of Stampede visitors who visited the displays and took the time to ask questions.

"I learned that our Army soldiers are in other countries helping people to have rights. And I learned that we have tanks!" states a young Calgarian visitor to the C2 Leopard display.

"They are really cool... When I grow up, I want to be an Army guy in a Tank that helps people!"

The Calgary Stampede is a major outreach focus for the Canadian Forces. It is one of seven large-scale exhibitions identified by the CDS as a focus for CF Outreach activities, which also includes the Nova Scotia International Tattoo, Canada Day, Canadian National Exhibition, Pacific National Exhibition, 2006 Grey Cup and the 2007 Carnaval de Québec.