Master Cpl. Devon Loney of Charlottetown has the opportunity to spend his summer as part of the Ceremonial Guard.
With their scarlets and their bearskins headdress, the Ceremonial Guard is the most recognizable military unit in Canada. For over 50 years, the changing of the guard has been a top Ottawa summer attraction, having thrilled thousands of visitors on Parliament Hill.
They also provide sentries at Rideau Hall, the official residence of Gov.-Gen. Julie Payette.
Loney, an army reservist living Charlottetown, is taking advantage of the Canadian Army’s commitment to provide guaranteed full-time summer employment to successful applicants to the primary reserves.
The Ceremonial Guard is one of the many opportunities reservists like Loney can be employed in over a four-month period in the summer time.
“I view the Ceremonial Guard as an elite organization with the Canadian Forces,” Loney said. “It is a very important position for public outreach and engaging with all Canadians.”
Loney’s summer began with three weeks of intensive drill training during which participants will master the precision movements, attain a high standard of dress and deportment, undergo extensive physical fitness training and be fitted and tailored in the scarlet uniform.
During the summer, Loney will also participate in Ceremonial Guard appearances at Canada Day around eastern Ontario, as well as the culmination event known as Fortissimo – a musical spectacular that takes place on the lawns of Parliament Hill and features massed military bands, pipes and drums, guest performers and the soldiers of the Ceremonial Guard. It takes place July 19-21.
