Training in the TAP-V

Great minds came together near Winfield to create an obstacle course for the British Columbia Dragoons.

The Interior Heavy Equipment Operator School wanted to help out the Okanagan Regiment of the British Columbia Dragoons with a place to train in their new TAP-V.

"We were approached by the military because we have such a large site, we have over 20-acres of land," said Darrel Letendre, site supervisor. "We got together to create an obstacle course for them, for their training."

The creation of the course benefited more than just the military.

"What we did is we utilized students to develop an obstacle course for them," he said. "Instructors were instrumental in working with the military to design and build the obstacle course."

The B.C. Dragoons are thankful for the opportunity to work so closely with the Interior Heavy Equipment Operator School.

"The Tactical Armoured Patrol Vehicle is a new vehicle to the Canadian Armed Forces," said Captain Joshua Trowsse-Freeman. "We are the first unit to receive it basically west of Edmonton."  

While the men trained on their strategically designed course in their new TAP-V they remained focused on learning how to manoeuvre safely and smoothly over the obstacles.

"It is a vehicle the military has given us in order to complete all sorts of tasks but specifically to our unit the British Columbia Dragoons," Trowsse-Freeman said. "It is used for recognizance, to find where the enemy is, find out locations and as well to provide all kinds of protection."