JR Vicars Armoury
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October 22, 2014 - 2:18 PM
KAMLOOPS – The Rocky Mountain Rangers, B.C’s interior infantry reserve unit, are under increased security and were directed Wednesday afternoon to not wear uniforms outside of work hours as events continue to unfold in the nation’s capital.
Wednesday morning, a gunman opened fire at the War Memorial in Ottawa, killing one soldier before shots were fired within the Parliament building Wednesday morning in Ottawa. The City’s RCMP members are still searching for others who may be involved in the attack. The gunman is reported to be dead.
Commanding Officer Lieutenant Colonel Kevin Tyler said all operations remain normal at Kamloops’ JR Vicars Armoury, but both companies here in Kamloops and in Prince George are receiving regular communication as National Defence, RCMP and CSIS agencies monitor ongoing developments.
“Our normal security protocols have been bumped up a little bit, but we’ll still be carrying on with our parade night and other activities,” Tyler said. “There have been a few minor changes that have come down because of the incidents in Ottawa and (Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu).”
Tyler said beyond the direction to not wear uniforms outside of work, he cannot disclose the details of heightened security levels. Across the country, military bases are on heightened security status.
No staff members have approached Tyler to tell him they feel unsafe at work – which is something he experienced when he worked at National Defence Headquarters during the September 11 attacks.
Tyler said security regulations will adjust once the event concludes and is further analyzed.
“My heart goes out to the families of any member who may have suffered due to the incidents in Ottawa as well as Saint-Jean yesterday,” he said.
To contact a reporter for this story, email Glynn Brothen at gbrothen@infonews.ca or call 250-319-7494. To contact an editor, email mjones@infonews.ca or call 250-718-2724.
News from © iNFOnews, 2014