Junior Rangers join forces for training

A weekend of advanced training for 49 Junior Canadian Rangers from six communities was an outstanding success, according to a Canadian Forces instructor.
“The kids enjoyed it and so did I,” said Warrant Officer Jason Dech. “They all had a good time. There were no complaints and they learned some useful things.”
The training took place on the land near Attawapiskat and was attended by Junior Rangers from Attawapiskat, Constance Lake, Fort Albany, Fort Severn, Moose Factory and Peawanuck.
With the help of three Attawapiskat Elders, the Junior Rangers learned how to prepare vegetables and clean geese, fish and moose for a feast.
“There was a lot of community support,” Dech said. “Attawapiskat Chief Theresa Spence came out for the feast. The three Elders worked with the kids.”
Food was donated by several local businesses in Attawapiskat. Training included camp preparation, gathering fire wood, preparing food, a boat trip to see James Bay, soccer and lectures on how to deal with sexual abuse.
Cultural training included a popular visit from an Attawapiskat youth drum group.
“It was a very good weekend with a good turnout by the Junior Canadian Rangers,” said Master Cpl. Chris Kataquapit of Attawapiskat.
“The big thing was that they learned how to work together. In northern Ontario, we have our own common kinds of traditions but different communities have different kinds of skills.
“Fort Severn has different skills compared to Attawapiskat or Constance Lake. This gave them a chance to learn from each other, even in how to prepare game for cooking or making bannock in different styles.
“They met new people and they talked to each other and learned from each other.”
Kataquapit runs the Junior Ranger program in Attawapiskat. He is also works at the De Beers Canada Victor Mine and is a band councillor.
“Chris did all the organizing for the weekend,” Dech said. “It’s nice to see that a Canadian Ranger, even with his busy schedule at the mine and as a band councillor can organize a Junior Ranger event like this when required. He is the person to thank for the success of this training.”
Kataquapit said it was a lot of work.
“But it’s satisfying when you see what the Junior Canadian Rangers get out of it.
“For me, to see smiles on kids’ faces highlights my day.”
Sergeant Peter Moon is the public affairs ranger for 3rd Canadian Ranger Patrol Group at Canadian Forces Base Borden. See www.canadianrangers.ca.