Armed forces recruits can also be first responders

The 31st Canadian Brigade Group, featuring the First Hussars armoured reconnaissance reserve unit based in Sarnia and London, showcased its emergency response capabilities at Lambton College’s Emergency Preparedness Day on May 19, 2026. The unit has been deployed across Canada for wildfires, flooding, ice storms, and pandemic-related health facility support, demonstrating its dual role as both military reservists and first responders. Sergeant Cyrus Chapman and Sergeant Keegan Lester highlighted the unit’s involvement in crises, including reservists from Sarnia assisting overwhelmed hospitals during the pandemic. The event allowed public exposure to military training vehicles and weapons while promoting recruitment opportunities within the Canadian Armed Forces. The First Hussars operates as a reserve unit, requiring recruits aged 16–57 to pass physical, medical, and background checks before enrollment. High school students can join a half-day paid co-op in Sarnia or a full-day program in St. Thomas, while adults train Thursday evenings and one weekend monthly. Current members—30–50 in Sarnia and 110–150 total—are recruiting 15 armored crewmen and 10 high school co-op participants. Chapman noted financial benefits, including summer employment earnings sufficient to cover post-secondary costs, alongside physical and mental resilience training. Lester, with 15 years of service including a 2021 deployment to Lebanon, emphasized the unit’s camaraderie and adaptability as key advantages for prospective recruits.