|
|
|
 |
As proud as you are of your son's or daughter's enrolment in the Canadian Forces, you are perhaps a bit worried about "boot camp". Well, you can put aside the images of "boot camp" you have seen in movies. The Canadian Forces' approach to training is "Insist and Assist". We provide recruits with an environment that fosters and encourages the development of the same qualities you have tried to instill in them: self-discipline, self-reliance, perseverance, a sense of self and of others. As we teach them the military skills they require, recruits and officer candidates live in modern, comfortable housing, are well-clothed and fed, and have access to superior sports and physical fitness facilities. In short, we provide them with all the means to succeed.
Keeping in Touch
Your son's or daughter's departure for basic training is only the first of many absences in their military career. Keeping in touch will be more difficult but not impossible. In the Basic Training section, you will find addresses where you can send letters and care packages. No matter which base your son or daughter will eventually be posted to, they will have access to telephone and e-mail, even on a ship. If they are sent on operations abroad, there are many ways to keep informed and to send mail - your will find the relevant information in the "What's Next" section.
FAQs
Q. I wonder if military life really suits my son/daughter...
A. Much care was taken to ensure that they can adapt to military life and that there is a good fit between them and the chosen military occupation. Your son/daughter was subjected to aptitude tests, medical and physical fitness tests, and interviews. The process is very competitive, so you can be proud and certain that they are embarking on a great career.
Q. What can I do to help my son/daughter prepare for basic training?
A. In addition to providing moral support, you can review with him/her, the document entitled "Joining Instructions" that he/she will receive from the Canadian Forces Leadership and Recruit School outlining the preparations that must be made before arrival at the School. This document is also available in the Basic Training section. Basic training is very demanding physically, so you may want to encourage your son/daughter to continue to eat right and remain physically fit.
Q. What will happen to my son/daughter when they return to civilian life once their commitment period is over?
A. Firstly, it is very likely that they will choose to renew their commitment because the CF is an employer of choice that offers very competitive benefits. Secondly, most military occupations have their equivalent in the civilian workforce; not only will your son/daughter have received excellent job training, but they will have become physically and mentally fit individuals who possess the kind of life skills that companies and organisations look for.
Q. Will it be possible for my son/daughter to have a family life?
A. Yes. The Canadian Forces Personnel Support Agency develops and delivers morale and welfare programs and services to their members and families. These programs and services aim at enhancing the quality of life of the military community.
Q. How will I know how my son/daughter is doing if he/she is sent on a mission abroad?
A. In addition to support provided by the CF Personnel Support Agency in the absence of a military member, there is a Mission Information Line to provide immediate information on missions abroad: 1 (800) 866-4546
Q. I worry my child will suffer discrimination in the CF...
A. The CF strives to represent the great diversity of the Canadian population. We welcome women and men, Francophones and Anglophones, Aboriginal peoples and visible minorities, and people from all ethnic and cultural backgrounds into an environment that supports the achievements of everyone.
|
|
 |
|
 |
|
|