As they have for more than a century, the members of the Calgary Highlanders, organized military reservists, have served their country on a part-time basis knowing full well they could be called upon to serve Canada during times of conflict.
Master Cpl. Shawn McDermott was among the regiment's more than 100 reservist soldiers to serve in Afghanistan. During multiple deployments, Master Cpl. McDermott could see the difference they were making as the country attempted to rebuild.
“It was a ghost town in 2006,” said Master Cpl. McDermott. “In 2008, there was a market, a school, a health clinic, a clinic especially for women, and a police station. It was completely different.”
On Saturday, the Calgary Highlanders were recognized during a ceremony at Mewata Armoury for their contributions to the war in Afghanistan. Per capita, the group sent more reservists than any other Canadian regiment
“It was a profound impact,” said Major Andrew Beauchamp of his time in Afghanistan. “It certainly shaped the way I look at Canada and the world, and shaped the way I look at the Calgary Highlanders.”
While some of the reservists were injured during their time overseas, all of the Calgary Highlanders returned home.
For members of the regiment, Afghanistan was a stark reminder of the unrest around the globe and the fact reservists would likely see war.
“You realize you could be deployed and although there may not be many deployments right now, we know the world situation is fragile and at any time Canada could be called to send soldiers overseas,” said Lt. Col Kyle Clapperton. “The Calgary Highlanders want to be ready for that.”
Premier Jim Prentice attended Saturday's ceremony as his grandfather served alongside the Calgary Highlanders in the First World War during the Battle of Passchenedale.
With files from CTV's Chris Epp
