Firefighting efforts across Western Canada allowing many to return home
Global News
Forty-five soldiers from across Alberta returned Tuesday night to CFB Edmonton. The troops were in Northern B.C. for the past two weeks assisting B.C. Wildfire Service.
Canada is experiencing its worst wildfire season on record, however, firefighting efforts across the country are allowing more people to head home.
This includes soldiers from Alberta sent to fight the British Columbia fires and northern residents finally getting the green light to return.
Forty-five soldiers from across Alberta returned Tuesday night to CFB Edmonton. The troops were in Northern B.C. for the past two weeks assisting B.C. Wildfire Service.
The soldiers only received a day of training in Calgary before heading out and for one reservist, this was his first operation.
“I am fresh out of my training. I was home for a week, volunteered right away and was shipped out within a couple days,” said Pte. Jonathan Schonauer with the 41 Canadian Brigade group.
Schonauer, among other soldiers, was working to contain the blaze in Vanderhoof, B.C.
He says it was a no-brainer to step up and help the residents of the small town.
“I just thought as if it was my own hometown. I just wanted to help out and hopefully bring some relief to those who live over there,” said Schonauer.