(Today’s Northumberland file photo)
Northumberland County is pleased to welcome the 31 Canadian Brigade Group of the Canadian Army Reserve from London, Ontario, for a domestic training exercise, taking place April 26-27, 2025.
As the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) are increasingly called upon to assist with domestic disaster response, they are expanding their training efforts to ensure operational readiness. With planning underway for nearly a year, this large-scale exercise will provide vital hands-on experience for military personnel while also fostering collaboration with local municipalities and emergency management partners.
Residents can expect to see a military presence, including approximately 800 troops, military vehicles, and support staff operating in Hamilton Township, Town of Cobourg, Cramahe Township, and Alderville First Nation. Some activity, including driver personnel training, may extend beyond these areas.
The advance team will arrive mid-April, and all personnel will depart by April 30 following cleanup operations. CAF personnel have been planning this exercise in Northumberland County since the spring 2024, working closely with area municipalities to determine the best approach and limit any impact to residents.
“This training exercise is an excellent opportunity for Northumberland County and our local municipalities to collaborate with the Canadian Armed Forces, reinforcing our collective preparedness for emergency situations,” says County Health, Safety, and Emergency Risk Manager Colleen McCabe. “We want to reassure our residents that this is strictly a training event, not a real emergency. While you may see increased military activity across the county, there is no cause for concern.”
The exercise is designed to have minimal impact on the community and the environment. Soldiers will not be armed, and the CAF will manage its own security and first-aid response. Northumberland County’s emergency services have been briefed and will provide support if required through normal response channels.
What Residents Need to Know:
· Expect to see military vehicles, soldiers in uniform, and troop movements across the county, setting up in preparation for the training beginning mid-April
· For safety reasons, public observation of training activities is not permitted. However, residents are encouraged to welcome military personnel if they encounter them in the community.
· Those interested in learning more about military careers can visit forces.ca or speak to military personnel during their visit.
Northumberland County appreciates the community’s cooperation and support in hosting this important training event. For further information, please contact emergencymanagement@northumberland.ca.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
