CAF recognizes businesses and schools for supporting Reservists 

The Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) recognized employers and educators from across Canada for outstanding support to their employees and students who serve as reservists.

 Organizations from every province were honoured last night, as well as over the past year in provincial award ceremonies, for their ongoing efforts and flexibility they provide their reservists. 

“Our Canadian Armed Forces reservists are incredibly important to our Canadian Armed Forces, and to all Canadians. Reservists come from all walks of life. They are students, civil servants, labourers, business people, academics, and former members of the Regular Force. I applaud the employers recognized tonight for supporting their employees who serve, and thank them for helping us to strengthen our Reserve Force,” stated the Minister of National Defence Harjit Sajjan in a press release. 

Employer Support Awards are presented every two years at provincial and national levels. The Canadian Forces Liasion Council (CFLC) works in partnership with the Defence Team to engage employers, educational institutions and other organizations to emphasize the value of reserve service to Canadian communities. The CFLC has more than 140 Canadian volunteers.

Their support allows the Canadian Armed Forces to fulfil its commitment under Canada’s defence policy, Strong, Secure, Engaged and generate full-time capability through a Reserve Force providing part-time service.

Top awards were presented to:

Most Supportive Employer: Steam Whistle Brewing, Ontario

Support for CAF Operations- International: Saskatchewan Health Authority

Support to CAF Operations- Domestic: Glotman Simpson Consulting Engineers, of British Columbia

Support to Student Reservists: Kings College, Nova Scotia.

 Each of the nominated employers has developed programs and policies that allow their reservist employees to attend military training and deploy on operations when needed, as was the case during the recent flood relief efforts as part of Operation LENTUS in New Brunswick, Quebec, and Ontario.

“This ceremony and these awards are a testament to the tremendous work the Canadian Forces Liaison Council has put in, and the tremendous support shown from employers and educators to reservists. Seeing so many companies and educational facilities being honoured with awards makes us proud as a council, and grateful for all wonderful recipients who are making an effort to support the Canadian Armed Forces,” says Scott Shepherd, CFLC National Chair.

Reservists themselves nominate their employers in appreciation of the support they receive, and a subcommittee of the CFLC selects the winners. 

The categories consist of Most Supportive Employer in each province, a Special Award for Continuing Support, and a National Award for Most Supportive Employer.

“I wish to extend many thanks to all of the reservists who submitted nominations this year. Over 400 employers and educators were nominated for awards, and these nominations came from all reserve components, environments, and ranks. We are grateful for the exceptional support shown to our men and women and the Canadian Armed Forces, and are pleased to be honouring these deserving employers and educators,” says Major-General Rob Roy MacKenzie, Chief of Reserves and Employer Support.

All Canadian employers and educational institutions, private and public sector, are eligible for these awards.