Eight Canadian Rangers from Nunavik recently were honoured and decorated for their 42 years of the service.
Brig. Gen. Stephane Lafaut, commander of the 2nd Canadian Division and Joint Task Force (east) presented the third clasp to the Canadian Forces Decoration to Canadian Rangers, Alasuak Alayco, Georges Nunga, Simon Novalinga, Peter Ittukallak, Adarnie Anautak, William Nappatuk, Juanasi Tulugak and Cpl. Paulusi Novalinga.
Brigadier-General Stéphane Lafaut, Commander 2nd Canadian Division and Joint Task Force (East), presented the third clasp to the Canadian Forces’ Decoration to eight Canadian Rangers from Nunavik, each of whom has 42 years of dedicated service. The third clasp to the Canadian Forces’ Decoration in recognition of 42 years of loyal service is not often presented.
From left to right: Chief Warrant Officer David Tofts (Sergeant Major of the 2TH DIVISION OF CANADA), Junior Canadian Ranger, ranger Juanasi Tulugak, and Brigadier-General Stéphane Lafaut (Commander of the 2TH DIVISION OF CANADA)
Photo by: Captain Karine Roy, officer information 2 Crpg © 2016-DND
The recipients, who enrolled back in 1972, serve in the Akulivik (3) and Puvirnitug (5) Canadian Ranger patrols.
The Canadian Rangers are known as the “eyes and ears of the military” in the North and remote areas of Canada.
The mission of the Canadian Rangers is to provide lightly-equipped and self-sufficient mobile forces in support of Canadian Armed Forces sovereignty and domestic operations in Canada.
There are approximately 5000 Canadian Rangers across Canada in 200 communities.
“It is a great honour for the Canadian Army to highlight your commitment to protecting Canadians and providing security in Northern Canada,” said Lt. Gen. Marquis Hainse, Commander, Canadian Army.
“Recognizing 42 years of service by an individual is a rare occasion in the Canadian Armed Forces and this presentation to eight dedicated members is a historic moment for the Canadian Rangers,” a statement from the CAF said. “These members have shown great commitment to Canada and have marked their service with distinct pride and professionalism, indicative of the Canadian Rangers, in the accomplishment of their mission.”
“Today, I have the privilege of presenting it to eight recipients. Your service and commitment are a clear demonstration of your unwavering support to the Canadian Armed Forces and to Canada. It is a pleasure and an honour to be here with you to celebrate this achievement,” said Lafaut.