Managing editor
If anyone should know what military life is like, it’s a trio of women sworn into the Air Reserve January 18 at 14 WingGreenwood.
Jen Morrison, Julie Crossman and Jessica Legge all joined the Reserves; each of their partners is Regular Force here at the base. Do they know what they’re getting into?
“We’ve heard!” Morrison said.
And Air Reserve Flight Commander Major Richard LeBlanc cautioned the group as the swearing in began it was their “last chance” to opt out of a months long process to get to this point.
“You are officially entering into the profession of arms – with a unique identity, and as a proud member recognized around the world with the Canadian flash on your shoulder. I’ve been in the military for over 30 years, and I still cherish that,” LeBlanc said.
“You’ll find yourself challenged, and part of a team – part of the greatest nation building organization inCanada. I encourage you to embrace it.”
Each woman repeated the oath – “What better day than today?” LeBlanc asked Morrison, acknowledging her birthday.
The women made the choice based on recent years’ work in retail and service sectors – “Where you always start at the bottom,” Morrison said – and as full-time parents. Joining the Reserves gives them career opportunities, transferable as their partners are posted through their Regular force career.
Employment Training Officer Master Warrant Officer John Arsenault said this addition to the Air Reserve is a “win-win.
“These people know what the military is like and, a few years down the road, they may go Regular force.”
The women will start their Reserve careers in squadrons and orderly room environments.
