CALEB NICKERSON

SHAWVILLE April 30, 2019

This past week, residents of Shawville have probably noticed the contingent of military vehicles parked outside the local arena. That’s because the local barn was host to a company of Canadian Forces personnel who were in the region to help out flood victims.

A hundred and thirty soldiers from the Royal 22nd Regiment, with elements from the Le Régiment de Hull and the 12e Régiment blindé, were invited to camp out in the arena and upstairs in the Lion’s Hall by Shawville Council.

Mayor Sandra Murray said that since Shawville was one of the few communities to be spared by the flooding, this gesture was the least they could do.

On Tuesday evening a meal was prepared for the troops by volunteers from Shawville United Church. The following evening, the dinner was prepared by the Anglican Church and the United Church of Stark’s Corners.

Elaine Lang was in the kitchen on Tuesday and estimated that about 20 volunteers had been busy preparing throughout the afternoon to literally feed an army. Roast beef and ham, provided by Shawville Council, was on the menu for that night, along with a wide array of fixings and sides.

Lt. Michael Bruni, of B Company, 2nd Battalion, said that they are trained to be self-sufficient in the field, so having some home cooking was a huge bonus.

“We had no expectation for a meal prepared and we’re grateful,” he said.