Members of the Canadian Armed Forces are generally not permitted to wear their uniforms when not on duty, except during specific occasions such as military functions, events, or ceremonies approved by their commanding officer. Retired members may wear their uniforms at appropriate military functions, reflecting their rank and service.
Perhaps make some changes to this policy. How many regular force members keep their uniforms on the base or wear civvies so as not to alarm the public. There are 1500 regular forces at CFB Toronto. A few uniforms on the transit system might create some awareness. Going back to Oakville for a minute, the reserve had their vehicles parked on Navy Street just off the main drag: people saw them every time they went downtown. Having a solid core heading up the Santa Claus parades directly behind the band certainly helped as well. The Military Bands are great PR. Unfortunately our forces are relatively few in number in comparison to our population and it would be impossible to attend all of them or even a significant minority of them. I honestly think that re-vitilizing the local militia concept in a meaningful way is the most practical and useful way to foster awareness.
How many H.S. groups are encouraged to tour our facilities/museums and are they inviting enough inside to make it worthwhile.
