8 Wing Canadian Forces Base Trenton in Trenton, Ont., on Sept. 29, 2012. THE CANADIAN PRESS IMAGES/Lars Hagberg
We have supported the Public Health Agency of Canada with the reception and quarantine of 870 fellow Canadians, both here in Trenton and in Cornwall, Ontario. These measures have helped reduce the spread of the virus across Canada, while ensuring that those who tested positive for COVID had a safe, private place to receive the finest care from our friends at the Public Health Agency of Canada, Canadian Red Cross and Hastings-Quinte Paramedic Services.
The support we have received from our communities has been tremendous throughout this operation. The leadership shown by our local political leaders, Mayor Harrison of Quinte West, Mayor Panciuk of Belleville, Warden Phillips of Hastings, Mayor Ferguson of Prince Edward County and Mayor Ostrander from Brighton has been outstanding. The engagement and support from Dr. Oglaza and his team from Hastings Prince Edward Public Health has been inspirational and reassuring.
Operation GLOBE, as it was called, was a tremendous example of cooperation and professionalism of all those involved. Those who comprised the Whole of Government approach ensured the safety and integrity of the quarantine and safeguarded CAF members, our families, neighbours and communities from the virus at all times.
As we complete the farewell to the remaining Canadians in quarantine, 8 Wing/CFB Trenton is taking all measures to ensure we remain ready and able to respond to any and all operations we are called upon to conduct. From search and rescue missions, sustainment of overseas and northern operations, as any domestic operations in the defence of Canada and protection of Canadians, 8 Wing stands ready.
We are doing our part to prevent infection and keep our members and families healthy by practicing good hygiene, enforcing physical distancing, reinforcing self-isolation and minimizing the number of personnel on base to those required for core and essential tasks only, as we help to ‘flatten the curve.’
Furthermore, we are adjusting our flights around the world to minimize the risk to our aircrew, including constant monitoring of COVID-affected areas and implementing safety measures to ensure our members are able to protect themselves and passengers. Returning personnel from overseas operations are self-isolating for 14 days, in line with Government of Canada guidelines.
I understand this is a difficult time for many, wrought with uncertainty, but rest assured operations at 8 Wing/CFB Trenton will continue, with the safety and health of all as our paramount concern. I am proud of our members in uniform and their dedication to their responsibility to their profession and embracing service before self.
Over the past two months, many have reached out to inquire as to how they can best support the operation. I applaud the generosity and compassion of our community. I do have one simple request for how each and every one of us can help during these unprecedented times. I would like each of us to concentrate our efforts on eliminating the stigma attached to COVID-19. I ask that we use this energy positively, supporting and applauding the work done by Doctor Theresa Tam, Canada’s Chief Public Health Officer, and her team, all of our first responders, doctors and nurses, those resourcing our food chain and all those who are ensuring we have the necessities to survive. Without them, the fight will be extremely difficult – they have my full admiration.
I ask that everyone take the threat of COVID-19 seriously and practice self-isolation. The time is now, not tomorrow, not in a week from now.
On behalf of all the members of 8 Wing/CFB Trenton, thank you for your continued support.
Colonel Ryan Deming, Commander, 8 Wing/CFB Trenton
