Dear editor,
As a former peacekeeper who served in active combat operations, as well as a doctoral social science candidate, I feel I have a unique perspective on the issue of military recruitment (or anti-recruitment) in schools.
The realities of military life should never be hidden from inquiring students: it is not always easy, and it is not always kind. But we should not dissuade any student from choosing a path of service to their country, or of greater responsibility to the world. Respectful discussion on Canada’s military, peacekeeping, and future should always take precedence over individual political views in our classroom.
I have the greatest respect for our teachers, as well as our veterans and men and women in uniform, and I believe both those viewpoints can be reflected in our classrooms when it comes to military service.
Bryce Casavant
Courtenay