National Defence and the Citizen of Convenience

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CANADA: A Mari Usque Ad Mare (From Sea To Sea)
A parliamentary democracy and federal constitutional monarchy

Area land 9,984,670 km² (2nd)
Area water 8.92 (891,163 km²)
Projected population- 2007 estimate- 32,793,700 (36th)
Density 3.2/km² (219th) 8.3/sq mi.
GDP (PPP) 2005 estimate - Total $1.105 trillion (11th) - Per capita $34,273 (7th)
GDP (nominal) 2005 estimate - Total $1.132 trillion (8th) - Per capita $35,133 (16th)

Military manpower = Regular 64,000, Reserves 27,500
Military strength = Fleet Submarines 4
Destroyers 3
Frigates 12
Coastal Defence Vessels 12
Operational Support Ships 2

Main Battle Tanks 58 Leopard MBT [4]
Infantry fighting vehicles 600+
Armoured Personnel Carriers 1,000+

Fighter 98 [5]
Patrol 21
Transport 53
Helicopter 142
Trainer 64
Unmanned 19

This in a nut shell is Canada and what Canada has to offer anyone from anywhere who wants a chance to make a better life for themselves and their family, and to contribute to the ongoing process of democracy and the rights and freedoms of the individual as expressed in the Canadian Constitution and the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Democratic government, good and just law, wide open spaces and an abundance of fresh water, an average income of ~$35,000/yr. and a social welfare program in case of need.

For Canadians The Canadian Armed Forces are/is not simply protector. It is not simply a tool for extending Canadian foreign policy into difficult areas during difficult times. It is not Just an arm of government. It is not just a job nor just an adventure. It may be all these things but what it is, is the price we pay as Canadians that affords us all these things. Our democracy. Our freedoms. Our laws. Our society. Our country. Our way of life.

Canada is a generous land inhabited by generous people. Canadians ought to understand that. That it is not a weakness and that it is not open for abuse. And that while it may have all come at no cost to many...many spent a lifetime, paid with their lifetimes, so Canada could stand strong and free and be a beacon, an example of the free world.

The next time a military parade passes your busy life take a moment to look upon the faces of the men and women marching by. Take a hard look. They may one day be called upon to pay the ultimate price at your convenience.

Ah! The life of the citizen of convenience.

In the morning gather thyself to purpose,
in the evening discuss the manner,
that thou hast been this day,
in word, work, and thought.

trans-parere
January 7, 2007