Supporting Reservist Service: Recognizing Employer Commitment

Westmount, Quebec – 13 April 2026: On 10 April 2026, Chief Warrant Officer James Quesnel, CD of The Royal Montreal Regiment (RMR) had the distinct pleasure of presenting a Certificate of Appreciation to his civilian supervisor, Mr. Wes Haynes of Rahr Brewer’s Supply Group (BSG), based in Shakopee, Minnesota.

This recognition was not simply a gesture of thanks, but part of a broader national effort led by the Canadian Forces Liaison Council (CFLC). The CFLC exists to build strong partnerships between the Canadian Armed Forces and civilian employers, ensuring that Reservists can serve without professional penalty. Its mandate is clear: promote the value of Reserve service to employers, advocate for supportive workplace policies, and formally recognize those who go above and beyond in enabling their employees to serve.

For nearly a decade, Mr. Haynes and RahrBSG demonstrated exactly that kind of leadership. They consistently granted Chief Warrant Officer Quesnel the time required to attend courses and fulfill his military obligations. This level of support is not incidental, it is decisive. Without it, the ability of Reservists to train, deploy, and contribute meaningfully to operations would be significantly constrained.

RahrBSG itself is a key player in the brewing industry, supplying ingredients to microbreweries across a vast territory stretching from Newfoundland to Kingston, with Canadian operations anchored by its Saint-Laurent, Quebec distribution centre. Despite the operational demands of such a business, the organization has remained steadfast in supporting Reserve service, setting a standard that reflects both corporate responsibility and genuine respect for military commitment.

The CFLC recognition program exists precisely to highlight these stories. Across Canada, employers who support Reservists are strengthening not only the Canadian Armed Forces, but also their own organizations. They benefit from employees who bring leadership, discipline, and resilience back into the workplace, qualities forged through service.

For members of the RMR, this serves as both a reminder and a call to action. Many of our members rely on the understanding and flexibility of their civilian employers. When that support is present, it deserves to be acknowledged. Nominating an employer for CFLC recognition is a simple but meaningful way to do so.

Recognizing supportive employers reinforces a virtuous cycle. It encourages continued support, raises awareness among other organizations, and strengthens the bond between civilian industry and military service. Most importantly, it ensures that the next generation of Reservists will continue to benefit from the same opportunities.

Members of the RMR are strongly encouraged to consider whether their own employers meet this standard and, if so, to put their names forward for recognition. In doing so, we not only honour those who support us, but also uphold the enduring strength of the Regiment and its connection to the community it serves.