In the army: Tigers visit CFB Wainwright

Medicine Hat, AB — When the preseason schedule came out earlier this summer the Tigers had a game pegged for Wainwright, Alta., against the Regina Pats. Little did the players know they would receive hospitality by the Canadian Armed Forces. The army base situated in Wainwright was just a short jaunt to the rink and served as the player’s dormitory, cafeteria and team building, all the while meeting the brave men and women who serve this country everyday.

Thursday, shortly after arriving, the players made their way to their bunks or dormitory. Four single beds in one area each with two metal lockers for clothing and personal items. Shared bathrooms and common spaces made up the remainder of the dorm. In a society where smartphones are in control, the dorms had no TV and no Wifi. The players were forced to play cards, interact with each other and make use of their time in other ways.

Next, the Tigers were led to the bases’ repelling wall, a daunting 65 feet in the air. The team had to harness up for safety and put on authentic helmets. Some were anxious, others excited as they were led into the tower and shown how to repel. Once up there the wind picked up as a rain storm blew in, causing the players to dangle in the wind if not done correctly. The rain eventually did come down, soaking the players and soldiers, who laughed at the Tigers fleeing for shelter.

The team headed, drenched from head to toe, to the mess hall (cafeteria) to enjoy an authentic dinner experience at the military base. A single-file line formed as Tigers were mixed in with soldiers, all waiting patiently for a nice cooked meal. Steak, potatoes, salad, desserts and fruits were on the menu as everyone was able to choose what they wanted. The players and coaches sat next to the soldiers for dinner before heading to their next activity, simulated shooting.

Firing live ammo was not an option for the Tigers, therefore the team went to test out the simulated shooting area, where soldiers are able to train with replicated rifles, which use compressed air instead of bullets. Each gun still had the feel of the real thing, same kick back, same weight and same power. Once there the Tigers met new soldiers who outfitted some players in authentic bullet proof vests, showed some of the different weapons brought to the battlefields and were told stories while deployed overseas in Afghanistan.

For some, the weight of the gear was overwhelming as soldiers are required to carry minimum 100 pounds on their body, all of which can include: gun, ammunition (three to six 10-pound boxes depending on weapon), food, water, radio, radio batteries, satellite GPS, batteries for GPS, ammunition for another weapon on the mission, 30-pound bulletproof vest among other personal items.

The boys were told stories of two-time Afghanistan deployed soldiers. Their stories more intriguing than the last. The hardships, the turmoil and horrors of war. There were soldiers of all ages, including a 42-year-old husband of two girls who had been overseas twice and “would go back in a heartbeat.”

Men and women, coming together to protect our country and others with their lives. The Tigers appreciation and respect for these people has never been stronger, to be able to spend two days experiencing how they live everyday of their lives was a great honor.

We thank those who serve in our military nationwide and thank CFB Wainwright for their hospitality. Your courage, dedication and passion to your work allows us to play the game of hockey everyday. Your hard work does not go unnoticed.

Thank you.

Tigers Import forward John Dahlstrom poses in full army gear

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