Canadian Armed Forces assisting Province of New Brunswick in flood relief

The Canadian Armed Forces (CAF), in support of Public Safety Canada, will deploy nearly 60 service men and women to help New Brunswick following their request for federal aid. Public Safety Canada is the lead agency for organizing federal emergency response in Canada.

Some of 4 Engineer Support Regiment from 5th Canadian Division Support Base Gagetown deployed on May 11, to support Provincial authorities. This will allow those authorities to finish assessments and arrange further relief work and repairs. Other tasks include: assisting relief personnel, helping to assess flood damage and advising on alleviation measures for key foundations.

“I am proud to see our members of the Canadian Armed Forces once again responding to help Canadians in their time of need. These members train for deployment overseas in support of Canadian values and objectives and are also always ready to respond at home,” said Defence Minister Harjit S. Sajjan in a press release on May 11.

Since the flooding began, CAF liaison officers have been working with provincial authorities in monitoring the situation and the best way the CAF can support should they exceed provincial resources and capabilities.

“Responding to help Canadians in need is a core mission for the Canadian Armed Forces, but this mission is a bit more personal for our team. They’re deploying to help their neighbours, and the communities close to where they live,” said Commander Joint Task Force (Atlantic) Rear-Admiral Craig Baines.

Baines added that many of the CAF members have been volunteering their days and nights, just like much of the community, to help their community and neighbours.

“I’m proud to say that this is simply who they are, and what they do,” he said.

Photo Courtesy of New Brunswick Flood 2018 Facebook Page