Military training is coming to North Huron from May 3-5
BY SCOTT STEPHENSON
April showers always bring May flowers, but this particular May will be bringing a little something extra to Huron County - a military emergency management training exercise!
Municipalities in both Huron and Bruce Counties were recently informed of their selection by the Canadian military to host the impending operation - North Huron alone expects to see over 400 military personnel mobilizing throughout Wingham and Blyth from May 3 to May 5. The Military has requested use of the Blyth and District Community Centre, the Blyth Campground and ball diamonds and parts of the Wescast Community Complex.
At last Tuesday’s Council Meeting, North Huron Chief Administrative Officer Dwayne Evans noted that acting as a participating location will fulfill the township’s legislative requirement to complete an annual emergency management training exercise. “We typically would do an exercise in the fall, but this is certainly an opportunity for us to take it to a different level, and be a learning opportunity for all the members of the Emergency Management Control Group, which includes the Reeve, Deputy-Reeve and staff.”
Goderich, Clinton and Hensall will also be participating in the military training exercise. “It’s an opportunity to learn among ourselves and learn from our neighbouring municipalities. So this is a win-win, across the board,” said Evans.
Councillor Mitch Wright thanked staff for having a positive attitude about the impending event. “I’m happy that staff is looking at this as an opportunity, as opposed to seeing it as extra work to be avoided.” Wright also requested more details on how to relay important information about the exercise to North Huron’s civilian population.
Deputy-Reeve Kevin Falconer had an answer to Wright’s query - the Canadian military has informed the township that it will be handling all public communication efforts. “We have been assured on many occasions that they are in control of that, but as we all sit around here, we’ve got four weeks to go and we have yet to hear anything. Unfortunately, that is in the arms and the eyes and the hands of the Canadian Armed Forces, and they work in mysterious ways.”
Councillor Chris Palmer also expressed enthusiasm for the future occurrence. “I’m pleased this is happening. And it’s going to occur before the big camping season starts... and maybe local businesses will benefit from all these soldiers running around.” Palmer also asked if a notice about the exercise could be posted on the North Huron website and was informed by Evans that they were to wait for instructions from the Military Liaison.
Reeve Paul Heffer concluded the discussion by commenting that “they’re protecting our country, and I trust that they know what they’re doing. I guess that’s why we’re here, and they’re out there... it’s going to be a busy time for sure, and I’m very much looking forward to it.”
Residents are encouraged to check social media and stay tuned to their radios for more details as the exercise draws nearer.