By P.M. Sanderson, Capt (Ret’d), Canadian Army, Reserve, 26 October 2022
While researching another subject, I came across this information which, when you put in a chart, raises some questions.
Notes: (1) BACKGROUND: For the last few decades, growth on Vancouver Island has been explosive; catching both the province and municipalities off guard so naval staff can be forgiven if they missed it too. (2) POPULATION: Nanaimo is now bigger then Victoria; Courtenay which abuts Comox, is as large as Saint John, NB; (3) RECRUITING POOL: The most important information is not on the chart. On the east coast of Vancouver Island (less Victoria) there are 4 NL Cadet and 7 RC Sea Cadet Corps - these young people have shown an interest in the Navy - but the next ‘stepping stone’ in their career, is missing. Presence in the community is an important part of ‘recruiting’ and eventually ‘staffing’ the Navy.
2 thoughts on “Why no Naval Reserve Divisions in Courtenay and Nanaimo, BC?”
HMCS Quadra might be a starting point to establish reserves in the Courtenay/Comox Valley. Quadra is a cadet training camp used off season by regular forces etc and has buildings to fit reserves. The Comox Valley has lots of retired military types that may be interested in joining the reserves and being mentors.
There has not been an effort to expand reserve units to other cities. The only one I can think of is HMCS Brunswicker opened a satellite unit in Moncton a few years ago, with hopes of it becoming its own unit. Possibly neighboring units in BC could do the same.