With their scarlet tunics and their bearskins headdress the Ceremonial Guard of the Canadian Armed Forces, the Band of the Ceremonial Guard and the Pipes and Drums of the Ceremonial Guard are the most recognizable military unit in Canada.
For more than 50 years the Changing of the Guard has been a top Ottawa summer attraction, having thrilled thousands of visitors on Parliament Hill. They proudly provide sentries at the National War Memorial and at Rideau Hall, the official residence Gov. Gen. David Johnston.
This year an area resident has the opportunity to spend her summer as part of this tradition. Stephanie Schmeiser lives in Biggar and is an army reservist with the Ceremonial Guard in Ottawa. She attended Biggar Central School and the University of Saskatchewan.
Active in her school bands, Schmeiser is always up for a challenge.
"I view the Ceremonial Guard as an elite organization within the Canadian Forces," says Schmeiser. "I joined the Canadian Forces specifically to have the opportunity to work with the Ceremonial Guard."
Her summer began with three weeks of intensive drill training during which participants will master the precision movements, attain a high standard of dress and deportment, undergo extensive physical fitness training and be fitted and tailored in the scarlet uniform.
During the summer Schmeiser will also participate in Ceremonial Guard appearances around eastern Ontario and as well as the culmination event known as Fortissimo. Fortissimo is a military and musical spectacular event that takes place on the lawns of Parliament Hill and features massed military bands, pipes and drums, guest performers and the soldiers of the Ceremonial Guard. It will take place July 24 to 26.
So, when the scarlet tunics march through the nation's capital, the band playing, banners flying, and the crowds applauding, remember there is a local connection.
For more information on the Ceremonial Guard visit www.ceremonialguard.forces.gc.ca.
