FORT WILLIAM FIRST NATION – 38 Canadian Brigade Group (CBG) is hosting indigenous youth at EAGLE’S NEST, a leadership and skills training camp taking place at Fort William First Nation (FWFN) in Northwest Ontario from August 5-11, 2018.
The Lake Superior Scottish Regiment leads the 38 CBG effort in conducting an Indigenous youth camp with FWFN, strengthening community relations within the Thunder Bay area and reinforcing the common values upheld by both communities through the provision of an engaging, military skills training and indigenous cultural opportunity.
A collaborative effort between the Canadian Army and Fort William First Nation, EAGLE’S NEST gives Indigenous youth an interactive way to learn about the military in a fun and engaging camp setting that also includes Indigenous cultural awareness briefings delivered by community elders – a valuable learning experience for campers and staff alike.
“The EAGLE’S NEST Leadership Camp is a means by which military staff and indigenous youth and leadership can learn from each other in terms of military field skills and cultural awareness. As Commander of 38 Canadian Brigade Group, I take pride in the efforts put forth by the Lake Superior Scottish Regiment and the units of the Thunder Bay Garrison and HMCS Griffon to build the relationship between the Canadian Armed Forces and the Fort William First Nation through a program that motivates youth to be better citizens in their communities,” states Colonel Geoff Abthorpe, Commander, 38 Canadian Brigade Group
“The history of The Lakehead has demonstrated strong collaboration between the military and the First Nation of the region, going back to the War of 1812. Eagle’s Nest is another example of the ongoing partnerships between the Canadian Army and Fort William First Nation. Members of the Thunder Bay Garrison are providing a venue for the youth to explore their culture, their role in the community and expand their options for future career opportunities,” says Lieutenant Colonel Dave Ratz, Commanding Officer, Lake Superior Scottish Regiment.
QuickFacts
- The EAGLE’S NEST youth training camp was conceived as a way to foster and strengthen relationships between the Canadian Armed Forces, and Indigenous communities throughout Western Canada.
- EAGLES NEST 2018 will be conducted over seven (7) training days, during the period of August 5-11, 2018, for up to 30 members of Fort William First Nation and Junior Rangers aged 11-15 years.
- EAGLE’S NEST, in its sixth year, takes place in a different location in Western Canada annually.