Canadian Forces in her future

Page 2

Last month seven Aboriginal people who joined the Canadian Forces under the Aboriginal entry program graduated from the basic recruit training course at the Canadian Forces Leadership and Recruit School in St-Jean, Que. One was from Alberta.

Private Tammy Campbell (Mistawasis) is from Cold Lake. Asked "What would you say to someone who is interested in joining the Canadian Forces through the Aboriginal Entry Program?" Pte. Campbell had this to say:

"Take the opportunity. Take the challenge. You'll have a wonderful experience, have a chance to expand your horizons. You'll also gain a great deal of pride from your accomplishments."

We also wanted to know if she found the pre-recruit training course (PRTC) beneficial, and what the most important things were she learned there and in basic recruit training (BRT).

"I thought the pre-recruit training course was very beneficial. From both the PRTC and the BRT, I learned self-discipline and confidence. I felt a great deal of pride being Aboriginal and completing the course. Wearing the braid on graduation allowed me to display my Aboriginal heritage in a positive way."

Finally, Pte. Campbell had this to say about her career ambitions:

"In the short term, I will complete the initial trades training as a resource management support clerk. I hope to then take the French course before being posted to my first unit. In the longer term, I plan to complete a B.A. part-time while working. When I complete the B.A., I will apply to become an officer in the Forces. I think it is a great opportunity and would enthusiastically support anyone to take the challenge of a Canadian Forces career."