Lake Erie location for reserve training

Commodore Marta Mulkins, Commander Naval Reserve (centre), on a joint Canadian Coast Guard / RCMP rigid hulled inflatable boat during Exercise Erie Valour. Photo by Lt(N) David Lewis

Lt(N) David Lewis, HMCS Prevost PAO ~

Seven Naval Reserve Divisions, four Army Reserve units, the Canadian Coast Guard, and the RCMP all came together on the first weekend of October for Exercise Erie Valour.

The exercise is designed to simulate a joint task force and improve interoperability between government departments.

The exercise ran from Sept. 30 to Oct. 2 in Port Stanley, Ontario.

“The main focus of the exercise is to develop and regenerate individual skills and knowledge of naval operations, seamanship, and specific trade skills in a dynamic and active training environment that promotes skill development and personnel retention,” said LCdr Sean Batte, Commanding Officer of HMCS Prevost, and Joint Task Force Commander for the exercise.

Training centered on individual readiness and proficiency in small boat operations while working within a Joint Task Force command structure that oversees waterborne and land security.

Also, in an effort to enhance the safety and security of its ships and personnel while on deployment, the Royal Canadian Navy’s developing capability – the Naval Security Team – was tested. In the future, Exercise Erie Valour will continue to support the concept of the Naval Security Team in its training.

Commander of the Naval Reserve, Commodore Marta Mulkins visited Port Stanley during Erie Valour and said, “The professionalism and teamwork demonstrated during Ex Erie Valour is impressive. The skills these sailors hone during training exercises such as this will serve them, their home units, and the Royal Canadian Navy for years to come.”

In an official tweet from the RCMP they referred to Erie Valour as “a great weekend training with our Maritime Security partners.”