Reservists readying for Afghanistan mission

Six construction engineering reservists at Gander's military base are set to depart for a six-month tour in Afghanistan.

The reservists, who handle tasks ranging from plumbing and heavy equipments operations to carpentry and electrical repairs, will leave 9 Wing Gander in the first week of April. They will report to the Canadian military's main base in Kandahar and perform construction work throughout the surrounding area.

"It's a busy place, there's lots of construction going on, and it's all for a good cause," said Capt. Steven Tucker, the officer in charge of 91 Construction Engineering Flight.

Having recently returned from a one-week visit to Kandahar, Capt. Tucker said the soldiers will at times work from the four operating bases "outside the wire," referring to less controlled environments beyond the confines of the main base.

Master Cpl. Gus Shave previously served in Kandahar in 2006 and 2007, working on the construction of Canada House and a gymnasium on the main base. This will be his first time working outside the main camp.

"I think it's going to be more difficult this time, because last time I knew he was inside the wire," said Wanda Shave, the master corporal's wife. "This time, I know there's a little more danger with it being outside the wire. And he doesn't really know what he'll be doing yet. I'm a little nervous."

Master Cpl. Shave has been aware of his impending deployment since last August, and said time flew by since then. "I can't believe it's only another two-and-a-half weeks and we'll be gone," said the 16-year veteran of the military.

The overseas stay will be the first for Master Cpl. Steve Sheppard, who said he admits to being a little nervous about his mission given the potential for danger. However, he said their intense training prior to the deployment has prepared them for any situation they might encounter.

"I know with the amount of training we've got, we're at par, if not maybe better, than some of the coalition forces over there. So that gives me peace of mind knowing that we've got the best training out there. Hopefully, that will equip us a bit better than the soldier from another country," said Master Cpl. Sheppard.

Attacks on foreign troops by Taliban insurgents have been ongoing since Canada's mission in Afghanistan began in 2001. To date, 112 Canadian Forces members have died in the country, including six this year.

American President Barrack Obama is expected to increase the country's military presence in Afghanistan, which observers said might lead to an increase in clashes with the Taliban.

Cpl. Herman Collins was last in the Middle East seven years ago, and said the work they will do to help rebuild schools and public buildings is vital to Afghanistan's success. "We're there to help the lives of those who were suppressed by the Taliban. We'll be there to help make their lives better," he said.

While he looks forward to helping others, Cpl. Collins said he will be sad to leave his family behind.

"It's a little frustrating ... it never gets easier when you have to leave. It's getting harder and harder going away with a wife and three kids at home."

Lori Collins said she feels relatively good given the amount of training her husband has received. She said she is also grateful to have the Gander Military Family Resource Centre at her disposal.

Their middle child, four-year-old Allison, will be particularly sad to see her father leave, according to Mrs. Collins.

"Allison's really upset about that. She's really close to her dad. When he's been away for two weeks, she finds it really hard," said Mrs. Collins.

For Mrs. Shave, having her husband working across the Atlantic Ocean will be hard. They are expecting to have a grandchild in May, and will also miss some anniversaries, she said.

"It's his job. You knew what you were getting into when you married the military," said Mrs. Shave.

Seven more construction engineering reservists will leave Gander in May. Before they all leave, Capt. Tucker will have straightforward advice to impart.

"Take care of each other and come back safe. That's the biggest thing. We want to see everyone come back safe," he said.