RCMP Youth Camp

Nanaimo

2023-07-24 11:18 PDT

File # 2023

It was a lot of work but a lot of fun. These were the sentiments echoed by the majority of youths who recently attended the RCMP Central Vancouver Island Youth Camp, held in Nanaimo from July 3rd to July 7th.

Over the course of 5 days, the Grade 10, 11, and 12 youths, who came from all over Central Vancouver Island, were exposed to a mini version of the RCMP Training Academy experience. From waking to the sound of bag pipes played expertly by Constable Peter Batt, followed by a 6 AM run, their days were action packed, at times intense and filled with a variety of police-based activities. These activities consisted of understanding the Criminal Code, self-defence, water survival, scenario-based training, testifying in court, taking notes, collecting evidence, and a variety of other activities. Candidates also heard presentations from significant police support resources such as the Operations Communications Centre (OCC), the Emergency Response Team (ERT), the Vancouver Island Tactical Response Team, Air Services, Police Dog Services and West Coast Marine. Each day and night brought new challenges. When lights out was announced at 10 PM daily there were few complaints heard and most were fast asleep within minutes.

Hosting a camp of this nature is a logistical challenge, requiring months of planning, commitment and dedication from a variety of police officers and outside agencies, said R/Cst Gary O’Brien of the Nanaimo RCMP. Besides support from a number of Nanaimo RCMP officers, others who were actively involved included officers from Port Alberni, Oceanside, North Cowichan/Duncan. Outside agencies included School District employees, City of Nanaimo Fire and Rescue, BC Emergency Health Services, Coastal Martial Arts, Central Island Paintball, and Community Policing volunteers from Oceanside, North Cowichan and Nanaimo. Of note, the Central Vancouver Island Crime Stoppers program graciously provided funding to cover the enrollment fee of four deserving students.

Safety of the students was paramount at all times. For the entire week, there was a minimum of ten officers on site at all times (5 women and 5 men) and officials from School District 68, 69, 70 and 79. To keep the youths and instructors healthy and fed, Live Wire Catering was selected as the sole caterer. From all accounts they did a spectacular job.

Corporal Jana Rose an on-site facilitator and head of the Nanaimo RCMP Youth Unit said, Besides providing a glimpse of the rigorous police training, it also demonstrated what it takes to be an effective police officer or emergency responder: self-discipline, motivation, personal fitness, being a team player and being able to work through obstacles and adversity. I am sure there were times that some of the candidates doubted their choice in attending. But, with the support of their classmates they were able to handle and overcome whatever challenge was thrown at them. At the end of the day, it was gratifying to see them work together to achieve personal and team goals.

Lastly, Superintendent Lisa Fletcher had this to say, the Nanaimo RCMP is very honored to partner with SD68 to create such an amazing opportunity for youth in Central Vancouver Island which affords them the opportunity to participate and learn about the challenges and rewards of policing. On a personal note, some 20 years ago I had the opportunity to be involved in a RCMP youth camp as School Liaison Officer. To attend now as the detachment commander and present awards to these youth is such a profound circle. I am so proud of each and every one of the youths and wish them nothing but the best as they go forward.

Attached are a number of pictures that capture the experiences the youth were exposed to. By the large smiles, it appears the week was a success and memorial one for all.

Youths with Personal Flotation devices on Corporal Dave Gilies Forensic Identification Section Cst Jessica Scott overseeing candidates demonstrate handcuffing during scenario-based training

Candidates in Tactical gear practicing crowd control Cst Peter Batt playing the bag pipes Cst Sherri Wade being arrested during scenario-based training

Youths in front of RCMP helicopter Youths in front of West Coast Marine vessel Youths handling hose in fire training

Youths in survival gear floating in ocean Police Services Dog approaching suspect in scenario- based training Youths on Zodiac

Cst Matthew Tomasson and Herc with youth as a quarry Police Dog Services on track of suspect during scenario- based training Youth practicing pepper spray in scenario-based training