TRIPOLI, Libya -- The marching can hardly be called crisp as the new Libyan National Army takes form in daily drills at an abandoned air force base here.
The soldiers do not yet march in step or even keep their formations straight. Some answer their cellphones when they should be taking orders. Some smoke in the middle of exercises. Others push and shove as personal disputes break out over one thing or another.
Read more: http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/11326/1191721-82-0.stm
As a former Apprentice Soldier i came to love Drill and all its morale building and teamsmanship. I know fellow apprentices who when they first arrive marched like farmers crossing the mud filled fields. Swing left arm with left leg and so on.
As I mentioned nothing instills discipline and pride in a soldier more than good old Drill.
Poor MND MacKay is taking a wee bit of a bruising in the press with the maintenance, procedures and contracts within the Canadian Military.
I can tell you honestly Minister there was never a costly administrative procedure for repairs and logistics. CANADIAN Soldiers Sailors and yes even airmen made do with out dated equipment since the second world war and still they coped. In my trade as a cook right up until 1967 Canada's Centennial we were using burners and cabinets from 1937 Vintage and still we were able to feed the Troops at home and in the field. So please do not let these reporters who know sfa about actual military life and operations to go look for a real story.
Look after our Troops and their Families, and for the people ov our West Coast remember the families who will be alone this holiday season as the HMCS Vancouver patrols the Med.
Nil SIne Labore
Robby
