Has anybody else had this problem? Seems odd that they'd take so long to even contact a prospective recruit when they're complaining about a lack right now.

I've gone so far as to phone the local recruiter directly. He informed me that if there is a problem, they will phone me, but he has not received my application yet. Hmmm. I'm starting to wonder if the online application really works...

Soldier of Fortune

We must be the only organization that is begging for people and then turn around and create so many obstacles to getting them in.

I sympathize with you Stark and you just have to bear with it because there is no one you really complain too. Unless you want to let the media know as an unnamed source.

It would be interesting to find out how many out there didn't have the patience to wait or those that are still waiting. Gather all their names and stories together and send them up the Minister ands CDS for an explaination on why CFRC has its head up its a**

PS Stark - hang in there, we want you even though that is not the impression you are getting.

Ubique

[ 09 July 2001: Message edited by: Stark ]

I was also told that basic training is full until at least October so it could be a bit of a wait, again.

[ 16 August 2001: Message edited by: Grubby ]

[ 17 August 2001: Message edited by: Grubby ]

I'm strating my recruiting process in January, so I can hopefully start basic in the summer when I'm out of school...

~Roko~

I'm not working right now, and I've holding off getting a fulltime job because I don't want to start working only to have to quit a few weeks, months down the road to go to basic.

Also, how come so many people didn't finish QL2? Is it because of injuries, or motivation, or did they get kicked out?

As for the course I was on. See it was a QL 2 (basic) & QL 3 (battleschool) combine deal. I was 26 weeks long with no break. 10 weeks for basic (normally done at St.Jean, PQ) and 16 weeks infantyman training. I never did go to St. Jean...they (army) knew I was going infantry and said hell we pump them through all at once, basic and MOC together. I have infantry (RCR) insructors from the get go! So groomed for infantry right from a civilian. Also at the tail end of basic and the front of battleschool, it over lapped. So yeah as for fieldcraft and weapons, battlecraft was taught properly by guys who made their living at this stuff. Then say and Airforce or Navy NCO teaching it to you at St. Jean.

As for the totals Stark, your reasons applied. Yes injuries you get recoursed if you can't keep up with the rest of the program ie (knee, or arm injury). Guys decided they can't take the "yelling" or what I call at that time "chicken s***" tasks like polished boots, beds made, inspections, etc...etc...Common things they pick you apart on. Ummmm, guys find out that they don't want to be in the MOC (infantry) and leave for a different trade. Tons of reasons and yes, if the insructors thought you were a piece of crap then, by hell or high water...they would "make you leave". That isn't there intent at all though..don't get me wrong there. The last thing the forces want is to loose guys who are numbers for the units. The process of paperwork, flying you to basic, the dental checks, medicals...all that goodstuff, costs them money. And they want to see a return on their investment with years of dedicated and loyal service. And it was very tough! So yeah the numbers are pretty amazing, but that was my course. Other courses, there are for sure other numbers who make the "cut". Like I said in my previous reply, when you've made it to graduation day...you are so very, very proud. And no one ever can strip that feeling away from you! You and your buddies just experienced well...how to put it? Something indeed, special! All the best and don't get worried...It'll work out for sure. Hope other guys/gals can help add their own experiences on basic/MOC training, and the comradeship to help out! In any trade or MOC, navy or airforce as well we all share something great...that bond of friendship, loyalty, honesty, integrity!!!

On a bit of a tangent, why did you choose RCR? I'm still unsure which, RCR or PPCLI, I'd like to be a part of but I'm leaning towards RCR.

a. Anglo or Franco unit: PPCLI and RCR are both English designated units, R22eR is designated as a French language unit. Depending on your mother tongue will determine your options.

b. Geographical Consideration: PPCLI is a western based infantry regiment with two battalions in Edmonton (AB) and one in Winnipeg (soon to be located in Shilo, MB). RCR has two battalions in Petawawa (ON) and one in Gagetown (NB). R22eR, all three battalions are in Valcartier (outside of Quebec City, Que). This is one of the biggest points because you could be in a location for a long long time.

c. Historical/Traditional Considerations: Did your father/grandfather/uncle/friends serve with any of the battalions? Have you seen one on parade that specifically interested you?