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The complex neurobiology of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) calls for the characterization of specific disruptions in brain functions that require targeted treatment. One such alteration could be an overactive locus coeruleus (LC)–norepinephrine system, which may be linked to hyperarousal symptoms, a characteristic and burdensome aspect of the disorder. Study participants were Canadian Armed Forces veterans with PTSD related to deployment to combat zones (n = 34) and age- and sex-matched healthy control participants (n = 32). Clinical measures included the Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale for DSM-5, and neuroimaging measures included a neuromelanin-sensitive magnetic resonance imaging scan to measure the LC signal. Robust linear regression analyses related the LC signal to clinical measures. Compared with control participants, the LC signal was significantly elevated in the PTSD group (t 62 = 2.64, p =.010), and this group difference was most pronounced in the caudal LC (t 56 = 2.70, Cohen's d = 0.72). The caudal LC signal was also positively correlated with the severity of Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale for DSM-5 hyperarousal symptoms in the PTSD group (t 26 = 2.16, p =.040). These findings are consistent with a growing body of evidence indicative of elevated LC-norepinephrine system function in PTSD. Furthermore, they indicate the promise of neuromelanin-sensitive magnetic resonance imaging as a noninvasive method to probe the LC-norepinephrine system that has the potential to support subtyping and treatment of PTSD or other neuropsychiatric conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Musculoskeletal injuries (MSKI) impact military organizations by threatening their operational readiness, warranting investigation into relevant factors to inform risk reduction strategies. While several self-reported and physical performance measures have been associated with MSKI among military personnel, few have been validated and none have been reported in Canadian basic infantry candidates. The purpose of this study was to investigate associations between self-reported and physical performance measures and MSKI, and determine their validity as predictors of MSKI, in Canadian basic infantry candidates. Methods This was a planned secondary analysis of a study tracking MSKI at a basic infantry training facility in Ontario, Canada approved by Defence Research & Development Canada. Before the basic infantry training, consenting candidates completed a baseline testing session including self-reported questionnaires, measures of anthropometry, and physical performance previously associated with MSKI (ankle dorsiflexion test, Y-Balance Test, Isometric Mid-Thigh Pull, and the Fitness for Operational Requirements of CAF Employment (FORCE) evaluation). All MSKI reported by candidates were diagnosed by licensed healthcare providers. From a total sample of 129 candidates, 76% (n  = 98) were used to determine any associations between baseline testing variables and MSKI and to develop a predictive model (Development Sample), while 24% (n  = 33) were used to offer preliminary validation of the same predictive model (Validation Sample). The binary logistic regression and independent sample t -testing determined independent associations with MSKI in the Development Sample. All continuous variables and dichotomous variables previously associated with MSKI risk (Smoker Yes/No, previous history of MSKI, and physical inactivity) were entered into a backward stepwise logistic regression analysis to assess the predictive association with MSKI incidence in the Development Sample. The regression model was then applied to the Validation Sample. Results A total of 35 MSKI were diagnosed by Health Services Centre staff. The majority of the MSKI were acute (63%), sustained to the hip, knee, and ankle (74%). The most common diagnoses were strains and sprains (71%). Uninjured participants performed significantly better on the Relative Isometric Mid-Thigh Pull, FORCE 20 mR, FORCE ILS, and FORCE Estimated VO2peak compared to injured participants. Logistic regression analysis showed that the only variable with significant independent association with diagnosed MSKI incidence was self-reported previous history of MSKI. However, the backward stepwise logistic regression analysis retained self-reported previous history of MSKI, FORCE SBD, FORCE Estimated VO2peak, and Isometric Mid-Thigh Pull Peak Force as predictors of MKSI. The logistic regression model including these variables could predict MSKI with an accuracy of 79% in the Development Sample and 67% in the Validation Sample. Conclusion This study provides preliminary support for the value of measures of absolute muscular strength and cardiorespiratory fitness as predictors of MSKI in Canadian basic infantry candidates. Given the associations between physical performance measures and MSKI, and their necessity during occupational tasks, it is recommended that Canadian basic infantry training facilities integrate resistance training with external loads to best prepare their candidates to meet their occupational demands and potentially minimize MSKI. Further investigations to confirm the predictive capacity of these variables in a larger sample across additional facilities are warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: While a small number of scholars explore how contemporary American soldiers consume music "in theatre" (in a war zone) to motivate themselves and protect their mental health, little research addresses how music functions for Canadian combatants. Analysis: Case studies of two Canadian veterans illuminate the varied ways they used music to protect their mental health during their deployments in Afghanistan. Conclusion and implications: This article demonstrates that Canadian soldiers listened to a wide range of music to cope while on tour and argues for music as a unique portal through which to understand soldiers' deployment experiences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article provides a critique of Choi Byonghyon's biography of Ryu Sŏngnyong, a prominent political figure in Chosŏn Korea during the Imjin War. While the biography offers valuable insights into Ryu's life, the author of the article raises concerns about the uncritical approach to sources and the portrayal of Ryu as a flawless figure. The article suggests that readers approach the biography with caution and consider alternative perspectives. The author points out issues such as the lack of evidence for certain claims and the decision to write a fictionalized narrative. Despite these criticisms, the author acknowledges Choi's attempt to make the biography accessible but suggests that future biographies should strive for a better balance between readability and scholarly caution. [Extracted from the article]

The Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) are subject to the Employment Equity Act, which requires federally regulated employers to identify and eliminate barriers to the employment of designated groups (women, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities (PwD), and racialized members), and establish short-term, numerical goals to address underrepresentation. Addressing employment barriers experienced by these equity seeking groups is one of the CAF's key priorities. The objective of this study is to examine group differences in feelings of inclusion (i.e., relatedness, organizational inclusion, and microaggressions) and retention-related measures (i.e., job satisfaction, affective commitment, and intentions to leave), the contribution of feelings of inclusion to retention measures, and the effect of numerical representation and number of marginalized identities on these concepts. We analyzed data from the 2022 Your Say Matters survey, which was administered to a representative sample of CAF members, with oversampling of under-represented groups. Respondents included 4,483 Regular Force members (30.9% response rate). The groups under study included Indigenous members, persons with disabilities, racialized members, women not part of another group (non-Indigenous, non-racialized, women without disabilities), and everyone else (non-Indigenous, non-racialized, not women, without disabilities). Our hypotheses were supported overall, such that groups with less representation in the CAF scored lower on inclusion measures than groups with more representation. The number of marginalized identities held by military members predicted the inclusion measures, but did not predict retention-related measures. There were some group differences on retentionrelated measures, such that women not part of another group scored more favorably than other designated groups, and racialized members scored more favorably than PwD and Indigenous members. Inclusion measures predicted job satisfaction, affective commitment, and intentions to leave equally for all groups studied, suggesting that feeling included is important for all. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Canada's defence policy, Strong, Secure, Engaged, emphasizes the importance of leveraging Canada's diversity to strengthen the Canadian Armed Forces. Currently, women in the Canadian military are underrepresented across most elements and occupations, especially in the combat arms occupations, including among officers and non-commissioned personnel in combat units such as infantry, armored corps, artillery, and combat engineering. Research suggests that the benefits associated with the inclusion of women in combat arms occupations include an increase in collective intelligence, operational effectiveness, task cohesion, and diversity. This article explores the gender gap in the Canadian combat arms by examining the findings from two recent qualitative research studies on the perceptions of women in the Regular Force and Primary Reserve. The authors analyze female military personnel's perceptions of women serving in the combat arms, and the ways to increase their inclusion in the military. The key findings reveal the following themes on women's perceptions of servicewomen in the combat arms: great job for those who want it; challenging environment (e.g., working within a masculinized culture, necessary toughness, tokenism and the "Pink List," being treated differently, and family loyalty); unique challenges faced by women in combat roles; combat takes a toll on women's mental and physical health; and benefits of women's participation in multinational operations. The discussion highlights the need to increase diversity, equity, and inclusion, promote a culture change that fosters greater inclusion of women in the combat arms, and increase operational effectiveness through training and policies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Emergency departments (EDs) are a vital part of healthcare systems, at times acting as a gateway to community-based mental health (MH) services. This may be particularly true for veterans of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police who were released prior to 2013 and the Canadian Armed Forces, as these individuals transition from federal to provincial healthcare coverage on release and may use EDs because of delays in obtaining a primary care provider. We aimed to estimate the hazard ratio (HR) of MH-related ED visits between veterans and non-veterans residing in Ontario, Canada: (1) overall; and by (2) sex; and (3) length of service. Methods: This retrospective cohort study used administrative healthcare data from 18,837 veterans and 75,348 age-, sex-, geography-, and income-matched non-veterans residing in Ontario, Canada between April 1, 2002, and March 31, 2020. Anderson–Gill regression models were used to estimate the HR of recurrent MH-related ED visits during the period of follow-up. Sex and length of service were used as stratification variables in the models. Results: Veterans had a higher adjusted HR (aHR) of MH-related ED visits than non-veterans (aHR, 1.97, 95% CI, 1.70 to 2.29). A stronger effect was observed among females (aHR, 3.29; 95% CI, 1.96 to 5.53) than males (aHR, 1.78; 95% CI, 1.57 to 2.01). Veterans who served for 5–9 years had a higher rate of use than non-veterans (aHR, 3.76; 95% CI, 2.34 to 6.02) while veterans who served for 30+ years had a lower rate compared to non-veterans (aHR, 0.60; 95% CI, 0.42 à 0.84). Conclusions: Rates of MH-related ED visits are higher among veterans overall compared to members of the Ontario general population, but usage is influenced by sex and length of service. These findings indicate that certain subpopulations of veterans, including females and those with fewer years of service, may have greater acute mental healthcare needs and/or reduced access to primary mental healthcare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reactive skin decontamination lotion (RSDL) is a Health Canada approved product used by the Canadian Armed Forces for removal and inactivation of toxic chemicals on skin. Although it is considered very safe when used as directed, questions have been raised regarding whether topical RSDL in the medical setting will react exothermically with antiseptic compounds on the casualty's epidermis that could result in thermal burns. Benchtop experiments were conducted to investigate reactivity of RSDL with various antiseptic compounds or hemostatic agents. Temperature changes were closely monitored in three different volume ratios, 1:10, 1:1, and 10:1 over a time course of 16 minutes. Chlorine based bleaches versus RSDL were included as a positive control and were the only combination that exhibited a significant exothermic reaction capable of causing minor thermal burns. RSDL was also evaluated with antiseptic solution applied to swine epidermal tissue without observation of visual irritation; then in lacerated skeletal muscle tissue which resulted in no measured temperature change. The conclusion of this study is that antiseptics and hemostatic agents can be used as required on a patient decontaminated with RSDL as no exothermic reaction will occur. • RSDL does not undergo exothermic chemical reaction with antiseptics. • RSDL does not undergo exothermic chemical reaction with hemostatic agents. • Preliminary use of RSDL and antiseptic in physiological conditions do not increase risk of thermal burns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Self-harm and suicide behaviours are a major public health concern. Several factors are associated with these behaviours among military communities. Identifying these factors may have important implications for policy and clinical services. The aim of this review was to identify the risk and protective factors associated with self-harm and suicide behaviours among serving and ex-serving personnel of the United Kingdom Armed Forces, Canadian Armed Forces, Australian Defence Force and New Zealand Defence Force. Methods: A systematic search of seven online databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Global Health, PsycINFO, PTSDpubs and CINAHL) was conducted alongside cross-referencing, in October 2022. Following an a priori PROSPERO approved protocol (CRD42022348867), papers were independently screened and assessed for quality. Data were synthesised using a narrative approach. Results: Overall, 28 papers were included: 13 from Canada, 10 from the United Kingdom, five from Australia and none from New Zealand. Identified risk factors included being single/ex-relationship, early service leavers, shorter length of service (but not necessarily early service leavers), junior ranks, exposure to deployment-related traumatic events, physical and mental health diagnoses, and experience of childhood adversity. Protective factors included being married/in a relationship, higher educational attainment, employment, senior ranks, and higher levels of perceived social support. Conclusion: Adequate care and support are a necessity for the military community. Prevention and intervention strategies for self-harm and suicide behaviours may be introduced early and may promote social networks as a key source of support. This review found a paucity of peer-reviewed research within some populations. More peer-reviewed research is needed, particularly among these populations where current work is limited, and regarding modifiable risk and protective factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: In response to several high-profile cases of senior leaders in the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) being accused of various forms of sexual and professional misconduct, the organization has committed to culture change. Drawing on the group engagement model and empirical evidence, we propose that CAFmembers' experience of thwarted belongingness reduces their capacity to show empathy, which in turn affects their support for culture change. Method: Participants were 139 Naval and Officer Cadets from the Royal Military College of Canada who were predominantly male (61%), between 18 and 21 years old (80%), and not members of a visible minority group (68%). Data was collected via an online self-report survey assessing thwarted belongingness, empathy, and attitudes toward culture change. Results: Whether participants experienced thwarted belongingness was not directly related to their level of support for culture change. Individuals' thwarted belongingness was indirectly and negatively associated with support for culture change, through its impact on empathy. Discussion: Taken together, the results demonstrate that cadets' experience of belongingness contributed to their level of empathy, which together predicted their support for culture change initiatives. Efforts to change the culture of the CAF may need to consider improving members' levels of belongingness and, by extension, their levels of empathy. Implications for inclusion efforts are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A recent scoping review indicated military-connected children face stressors that may increase mental health issues. However, the majority of the included literature was American. To examine the experiences of Canadian military-connected children, we conducted in-depth interviews with a purposive sample of Canadian military-connected youth using a qualitative description approach. We conducted a content analysis on interview data, supported by qualitative data analysis software (MAXQDA), with coding done by two researchers who met regularly to discuss coding agreement. Thirteen children in military families participated and described the mental health impact of frequent mobility, parental absence, and risk of parental injury. The experiences of our participants were consistent with the results of an earlier scoping review on this topic. Our results suggest improving military cultural competence among health care providers and enhancing parental support may positively impact child well-being. More research is needed to understand resilience and vulnerability among Canadian military-connected children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores the experiences of immigrants in the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) and the challenges they face in terms of immigration and integration. The research team conducted interviews with immigrant soldiers, highlighting the importance of social relations and social capital in their military careers. The study reveals different pathways to joining the CAF and discusses the difficulties faced by white, English-speaking military personnel who immigrated to Canada. The text also emphasizes the need for better support and more transparent recruitment processes to promote diversity in the CAF. Overall, the article provides insights into the experiences of immigrant soldiers and the factors that shape their military careers. [Extracted from the article]

Introduction: Gender Advisors (GENADs) have played a key role in the efforts of military organizations worldwide to integrate gender perspectives, and culture change, within the defence and security context. Military organizations, however, continue to face challenges in regard to diversity and inclusion, including limited representation of women and other diverse groups who do not fit the white male, masculine stereotype, and subtle and overt expressions of prejudice and stigma towards under-represented and marginalized groups. In such an organizational context, the integration of gender perspectives has faced challenges, and transformative culture change has remained elusive. In particular, the experience of GENADs suggests that there may be unique challenges to serving as "gender experts" within military organizations. This paper, therefore, examines the lived experience of GENADs within the context of military organizations, as illustrated by GENADs in the Canadian Armed Forces. Methods: We consider two qualitative studies on the lived experience of GENADs and focus on the shared theme of legitimacy of gender expertise at both individual and systemic levels. Results: This analysis highlights challenges that gendered power relations may pose for GENADs as individual change agents, and for systemic, transformative culture change, within existing military organizations, while reaffirming the importance of understanding the lived experience of GENADs in their pursuit of more equitable institutional and operational outcomes. Conclusion: Using social-psychological theories of tokenism, we consider more broadly what it means to be the gender person within masculinized military organizations and conclude with reflections on the potential contours of transformative culture change within the military context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Internet scholars are uncovering and connecting histories of early internets across the globe, but the Canadian context remains underexplored. Drawing on unpublished and declassified documents of the Canadian Armed Forces at Ottawa's Directorate of History and Heritage, this article investigates the history and significance of SAMSON (Strategic Automatic Message Switching Operational Network), an early Canadian internet that experienced a series of setbacks beginning almost immediately at its advent in 1965, until the project was completed in 1984. Analysis: Canada's internet infrastructural techno-politics are examined through Brian Larkin's framework of examining technical ways through which the political is constituted. Conclusions and implications: This paper shows how this early internet was a techno-political system that shaped and was shaped by Canada's pursuit of its national identity amid fears of U.S. influence and rising demands for self-determination within the Québécois and Indigenous nations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction A third of Canadian Armed Forces veterans report difficulty adjusting to post-military life. Moreover, an estimated 40% of Canadian veterans live with chronic pain, which is likely associated with greater needs during the transition from military to civilian life. This review explores challenges and transition needs among military personnel living with chronic pain as they return to civilian life. Methods We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, Scopus, and Web of Science from inception to July 2022, for qualitative, observational, and mixed-method studies exploring transition needs among military veterans released with chronic pain. Reviewers, working independently and in duplicate, conducted screening and used a standardized and pilot-tested data collection form to extract data from all included studies. Content analysis was used to create a coding template to identify patterns in challenges and unmet needs of veterans transitioning to civilian life, and we summarized our findings in a descriptive manner. Results Of 10,532 unique citations, we identified 43 studies that reported transition challenges and needs of military personnel; however, none were specific to individuals released with chronic pain. Most studies (41 of 43; 95%) focused on military personnel in general, with one study enrolling individuals with traumatic brain injury and another including homeless veterans. We identified military-to-civilian challenges in seven areas: (1) identity, (2) interpersonal interactions/relationships, (3) employment, (4) education, (5) finances, (6) self-care and mental health, and (7) accessing services and care. Conclusions Military personnel who transition to civilian life report several important challenges; however, the generalizability to individuals released with chronic pain is uncertain. Further research is needed to better understand the transition experiences of veterans with chronic pain to best address their needs and enhance their well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Cannabis use among veterans in Canada is an understudied public health priority. The current study examined cannabis use prevalence and the relationships between child maltreatment histories and deployment-related traumatic events (DRTEs) with past 12-month cannabis use including sex differences among Canadian veterans. Method: Data were drawn from the 2018 Canadian Armed Forces Members and Veterans Mental Health Follow-up Survey (response rate 68.7%; veterans only n = 1,992). Five child maltreatment types and 9 types of DRTEs were assessed in relation to the past 12-month cannabis use. Results: The prevalence of lifetime and past 12-month cannabis use was 49.4% and 16.7%, respectively. Females were less likely than males to report lifetime cannabis use (41.9% vs. 50.4%; odds ratio [OR] 0.71; 95% CI, – 0.59 to 0.86). No sex differences were noted for past 12-month cannabis use (14.1% vs. 17.0%; OR 0.80; 95% CI, 0.60 to 1.07). Physical abuse, sexual abuse, neglect, any child maltreatment, most individual DRTEs, and any DRTE were associated with increased odds of past 12-month cannabis use after adjusting for sociodemographic and military variables. Some models were attenuated and/or nonsignificant after further adjustments for mental disorders and chronic pain conditions. Sex did not statistically significantly moderate these relationships. Cumulative effects of having experienced both child maltreatment and DRTEs compared to DRTEs alone increased the odds of past 12-month cannabis use. Statistically significant interaction effects between child maltreatment history and DRTE on cannabis use were not found. Conclusions: Child maltreatment histories and DRTEs increased the likelihood of past 12-month cannabis use among Canadian veterans. A history of child maltreatment, compared to DRTEs, indicated a more robust relationship. Understanding the links between child maltreatment, DRTEs, and cannabis use along with mental disorders and chronic pain conditions is important for developing interventions and improving health outcomes among veterans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presented as the eyes, ears, and voice for the Canadian Armed Forces in the Canadian Arctic, Canadian Rangers within the first Canadian Ranger Patrol Group (1CRPG) are applauded as being positive and progressive examples of state‐Indigenous relations. Located in almost 70 communities across the Northwest Territories, Nunavut, the Yukon and Atlin, British Columbia (BC), Canadian Rangers in 1CRPG are viewed as a critical part of the arctic defense strategy and a cheap and easy way to maintain arctic sovereignty, especially in predominately Indigenous communities in the high arctic. Focusing on how Rangers and Ranger Instructors talk and think about the pay system, this article examines how value is ascribed to Rangers depending on their ability and desire to financially invest in the organization. Studying the polarity, this article analyzes how the military—which prides itself on employing Indigenous people as part of arctic defense—reinforces colonial ideologies and relational structures of Indigenous communities' dependence on state aid. However, this, I argue, further entrenches dangerous colonial stereotypes that (Indigenous) members make poor economic choices and are thus responsible for continuing their ongoing poverty and inferiority. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: As armed conflict grows increasingly complex, the involvement of children in armed violence across diverse roles is rising. Consequently, military personnel are more likely to encounter children during deployment. However, little is known about deploymentrelated encounters with children and their impact on the mental health of military personnel and Veterans. Objective: This study qualitatively examines the nature and impacts of deployment-related encounters with children. Methods: We conducted semi-structured interviews with 16 Canadian Armed Forces Veterans, eliciting rich information on the nature of child encounters on deployment, the psycho-socialspiritual impacts of these encounters, and perceptions of support. Interview transcripts were analysed using thematic analysis. Results: Six primary themes were identified: types of encounters (i.e. factual aspects of deployment-related encounters with children), contextual factors (i.e. aspects of the mission, environment, and personal context relevant to one’s experience of the encounter), appraisals of encounters (i.e. sensory or sense-making experiences relevant to the encounter), impacts of encounters (i.e. psycho-social, existential, and occupational impacts), coping strategies engaged in both during and after deployment, and support experiences, describing both formal and informal sources of support. Conclusions: Encounters with children are diverse and highly stressful, resulting in impacts pertinent to mental health, including psychological and moral distress, and difficulties with identity, spirituality, and relationships. These impacts are prompted by complex interactions among appraisals, expectations of morality, cultural norms, and professional duties and are amplified by various personal factors (e.g. childhood maltreatment history, parenthood), feelings of unpreparedness, and lack of post-deployment support. Implications for prevention, intervention, and policy are discussed with the aim of informing future efforts to safeguard and support military personnel facing a high likelihood of encounters with children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article examines the contemporary history of the Department of National Defence (DND) and the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) from peacekeeping to the most recent update to Canadian defence policy, highlighting their historical roles and contemporary challenges. It discusses the evolving purpose of the CAF, which has shifted from conventional defence to supporting and reinforcing a western-led international order. It explores issues such as defence spending, procurement challenges, peacekeeping endeavors, veterans' support, diversity and inclusion within the CAF. Moreover, it explores emerging threats in cyber, space and Arctic domains, including the rise of artificial intelligence threats, and emphasises the need for Canada to adapt its defence strategies accordingly. Specific focus is given to changes in Canadian defence policy in Strong, Secure, Engaged (SSE) released in 2017, and Our North, Strong and Free released in 2024. Ultimately, the article offers a critical assessment of Canada's military role in the context of evolving global challenges and societal values, highlighting the recent policy shift towards expanding national and international defence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores the future of Canadian military air power, focusing on the defense of Canada, North America, and international peace and security. It discusses the potential threats posed by Russia and China in the Arctic region, including concerns about freedom of navigation and military competition. The article suggests that the Royal Canadian Air Force should prioritize capabilities suitable for defense and highlights the challenges faced in developing these capabilities. It also discusses the concept of "defence against help" and the importance of clear statements of intent and demonstration of strength in deterrence. The article mentions planned investments in advanced fighter aircraft and space-based capabilities, as well as the need for improved all-domain awareness and command and control systems. It emphasizes the importance of professional military education and historical understanding in preparing for future challenges. [Extracted from the article]

This article provides a comprehensive overview of aircraft procurement in Canada's air force, focusing on different periods such as World War II and the Cold War. It discusses the challenges faced by the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) in terms of procurement and aircraft production, as well as the debates and decisions made regarding the future of the air force. The article also explores the collaboration with the United States and the acquisition of various fighter and transport aircraft. It concludes by emphasizing the need for improved procurement processes and education within the RCAF to minimize future shortfalls. [Extracted from the article]

"The Past, Present and Future of Canadian Military Air Power" is an article that provides an overview of the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF). It discusses the challenges faced by the RCAF, including aging fleets, procurement difficulties, and recruitment and retention issues. However, it also acknowledges recent improvements in equipment procurement. The article emphasizes the importance of understanding the RCAF's history and using it to shape discussions about its future role. It also explores Canada's unique approach to foreign policy and national security, including its relationship with the United States. The text provides a balanced perspective on the RCAF's history, challenges, and future, and highlights the need for a continuous narrative to explain the current situation. [Extracted from the article]

Definition: An operational stress injury (OSI) is a term used most often to describe mental disorders which result from, or are exacerbated by, military or police service. In the Canadian context, this most often refers to active or former members of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) or the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). The most common diagnoses within this term include post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety disorders, depression, and substance use disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This qualitative study explores the experiences of 26 family members supporting Canadian Armed Forces veterans living with mental health problems including operational stress injuries (OSIs). Background: The research focusing on military‐connected families emphasizes the impacts of service on the families. Little is known about how families impact military veterans, particularly those diagnosed with OSIs. This research addresses that gap by revealing the capabilities and demands characterizing their everyday lives. Method: Semistructured interviews with 26 individuals identifying as family members of Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) veterans and three focus groups (three participants in each group for a total of nine) with family members of CAF veterans released within the preceding 10 years were conducted. The veterans were living with broadly defined diagnosed and undiagnosed mental health problems including OSIs. Using the family adjustment and adaptation (FAAR) model as an organizational framework, demands and capabilities embodied within the everyday lives of the family members were revealed. Results: Monitoring the well‐being of the veteran, managing daily life, accessing and mobilizing resources, and caregiving were discussed as capabilities by participants in this study. These capabilities buffer the demands associated with the veteran's mental health problems. Conclusions: Results of this study endorse recommendations for family‐centered program and service development, modeled on approaches that recognize the systemic and relational contexts instrumental in supporting positive outcomes for veterans with OSIs. Implications: Further research exploring the complex, interdependent, and interactional role of families supporting veterans with OSIs is warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members and Veterans are more likely to experience mental health (MH) conditions, such as posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), than the general Canadian population. Previous research suggests that an increasing number of individuals are employing cannabis for MH symptom relief, despite a lack of robust evidence for its effectiveness in treating PTSD. This research aimed to: (1) describe the prevalence of current cannabis use among MH treatment-seeking CAF members and Veterans; and (2) estimate the association between current cannabis use and a number of sociodemographic, military, and MH-related characteristics. Method: Using cross-sectional intake data from 415 CAF members and Veterans attending a specialized outpatient MH clinic in Ontario, Canada, between January 2018 and December 2020, we estimated the proportion of CAF members and Veterans who reported current cannabis use for either medical or recreational purposes. We used multivariable logistic regression to estimate adjusted odds ratios for a number of sociodemographic, military, and MH-related variables and current cannabis use. Results: Almost half of the study participants (n = 187; 45.1%) reported current cannabis use. Respondents who reported current cannabis use for medical purposes had a higher median daily dose than those who reported current cannabis use for recreational purposes. The multivariable logistic regression identified younger age, lower income, potentially hazardous alcohol use, and increased bodily pain as statistically significant correlates of current cannabis use among our MH treatment-seeking sample. PTSD severity, depressive severity, sleep quality, and suicide ideation were not statistically associated with current cannabis use. Conclusions: Almost half of our treatment-seeking sample reported current cannabis use for medical or recreational purposes, emphasizing the importance of screening MH treatment-seeking military members and Veterans for cannabis use prior to commencing treatment. Future research building upon this study could explore the potential impact of cannabis use on MH outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In September 2019, 19,000 amateur runners participated in the Canada Army Run, a road race hosted by the Canadian Forces (CF). This ethnographic study explores the event as a site of socialization, demonstrating that the Army Run: (a) focuses on promoting the CF rather than maximizing race results, (b) promotes the CF by exceptionalizing its members, and (c) is a celebratory site of promilitary socialization and recruitment that precludes critical engagement with the CF. These findings indicate that military promotional strategies have evolved since the immediate post 9/11 era; whereas previous initiatives used sport to tie local military agendas into larger neoliberal military imperatives, the 2019 Army Run demonstrates a new tactic, depoliticizing the CF and reifying an idealized, decontextualized Canadian military. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent scandals and longstanding systemic issues related to sexual misconduct, discrimination, and exclusionary practices have prompted the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) to undertake cultural reforms. CAF Ethos: Trusted to Serve (DND, 2022) speaks to the need for institution-wide culture change and the importance of leadership and education in this endeavour. Yet we don't know how the ideas purported within Trusted to Serve manifest within training. This disjuncture between policy and culture may be stalling progress and raises the question, how can policy and culture better communicate? Inquiring into Institutional Ethnography, this article shows its suitability to (1) make the disconnect between the institution's values, articulated in policy, and the daily experience of cadets visible; (2) draw attention to the ways cadets witness institutional policies upheld and contradicted within their learning environment; and (3) raise awareness on the unnecessary work imposed upon military members by the actions and beliefs of others. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]