Algonquin graduate accepts the call of duty

By Jessica Cunha

cunh0005@algonquincollege.com

Last year, Algonquin grad Nathan Griffiths was just another civilian.
All that changed when he realized the auto body trade he had chosen wasn’t for him, and instead signed up to become a soldier.
“I joined the army because after working in my civilian job, I realized I needed something more than the regular trade job,” said Griffiths, a graduate of automotive collision repair. “With my father just retiring I realized how rewarding a 30-year career could be in the military. Those reasons are what gave me the nudge to walk into the recruiting center downtown and get a job in the army.”
A few weeks later, the call came that he had been accepted and needed to start packing his bags for 14 weeks of basic training.
Now six months into training, Griffiths is completing a year-long program at Camp Borden, Ontario.
“It’s my pre-course before I start my trade course, learning the basic maintenance response and the history of the EME [electrical mechanical engineering] branch that repairs everything in the army,” he said.
Remembrance Day has always been a top priority for the former artillery cadet who paraded in Manotick for six years.
“Remembrance Day is a very important day and I will be participating in a parade to honour and remember those that fought and died in past and present engagements,” he said. “I grew up with its importance being in a military family and being in cadets. Since Canada is in a combat role in Afghanistan, the public in general is aware of what happens and stands behind what we do.”
Griffiths hopes to get posted to Afghanistan once his military training is completed.
“I would really like to experience a deployment there but it depends on when my training is complete and when my new unit will be on a rotation,” he said.
One thing that helps when being away from family and friends is the bond that is formed between those in the military.
“Being with a large group of people that share the same common goals, making it feel like a large family,” is one of the best things about being in the army, said Griffiths.
“It’s hard being away from home because I’m in Barrie until next fall, but what helps me get through it is having great friends I made on courses that are in the same position that I am in.”