THUNDER BAY — The Department of National Defence is starting up Junior Canadian Ranger patrols up in two more First Nations in Northwestern Ontario.
On the weekend, the 3rd Canadian Ranger Patrol Group officially inaugurated new patrols at Aroland and Long Lake # 58 First Nations.
In the two communities, 15 youths have initially signed up.
Training will begin in the spring of 2022.
The JCR program has similarities to the cadet program.
It provides youths aged 12 to 18 with training in three areas – ranger skills, life skills and traditional skills.
With the addition of Aroland and Long Lake # 58, all 26 Canadian Ranger patrols in Ontario will now have a JCR program in their communities.
Canadian Rangers are members of the Canadian Forces who live in remote northern communities.
They are usually the first responders to natural disasters, and also conduct search and rescue operations.
A 3rd Canadian Ranger Patrol Group spokesperson said its members are experts on the land who act as the eyes and ears of the Canadian Forces in northern areas.
