To enhance team building, resilience, and adaptability, the Canadian School of Military Intelligence (CFSMI) recently organized a unique adventure training expedition – a professionally guided four-day dog-sledding expedition in the breathtaking Algonquin Park. A first for CFSMI, this initiative sought to test military mettle amid the challenges of nature, fostering camaraderie and problem-solving skills against the backdrop of an unforgiving winter environment.
Algonquin Park, renowned for its pristine wilderness and rugged terrain, provided the perfect backdrop for this extraordinary training experience. The participants, Basic Training List (BTL) students awaiting their initial training, embarked on an immersive journey through the snow-covered landscapes, navigating trails and dense forests with trained sled dogs.
The expedition included visits from guest lecturers who were brought in by snowmobile. They practised survival skills, improvised shelters, winter hygiene and a demonstration of a Dakota fire hole with two CFSMI staff members from the Land training squadron. The improvised shelter lecture inspired one soldier to fully embrace the wilderness experience and sleep overnight in the rudimentary lean-to. Each day presented new challenges, reinforcing the importance of adaptability and resourcefulness in the face of unpredictable weather and varying terrains.
Adding a cultural layer to the experience, Tim Yearington, CFB Kingston’s Indigenous Spiritual Advisor, played a pivotal role in enhancing the expedition’s significance on his visit. Gathered around a sacred fire in the heart of the forest, Yearington shared traditional teachings, offering insights into Indigenous perspectives on local history, nature, and spirituality. His wisdom, shared in the glow of the flickering flames, served as a poignant reminder of the interconnectedness of nature and humanity, enriching the participants’ experience, fostering a deeper appreciation for the land they traversed.
Private Pasion, one of the participants, encapsulated the essence of the experience during the Indigenous sharing circle, stating, “It was cold, but it was worth it.” This sentiment echoed the challenging conditions faced by the soldiers.
The expedition allowed military personnel to appreciate the natural beauty of Algonquin Park and connect with the rich cultural history of the snow swept region. The experience served as a reminder of the importance of resilience, teamwork, and adaptability in military operations, instilling valuable lessons among the participants that will undoubtedly translate into enhanced effectiveness and cohesion throughout their careers in the Canadian Armed Forces.
Written by: PO1 Janine Simmons (BTL Coordinator at CFSMI)
