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As global tensions continue and Canada faces growing pressure to be ready to support its allies, the military opened its doors in Regina to show people what service can really look like.
Inside the Regina Armoury on Saturday, visitors moved between weapons displays, military vehicles and hands-on demonstrations, but officials said the bigger message was about people.
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“It is especially important in light of the world security situation,” said Lt.-Col. Kevin Berry, commanding officer of the Royal Regina Rifles and garrison commander at the Regina Armoury.
“The Army is in the midst of expansion, and we are actively recruiting.”
The open house brought together multiple units, giving people a chance to see everything from infantry and artillery to engineering, communications and logistics roles.
Major Shane Zess, deputy commanding officer of the Royal Regina Rifles, said events like this help correct common misconceptions.
“Most people don’t know what all aspects of the army are,” Zess said. “They see things in movies, and they equate it all to fighting. But there’s a lot more than just the fighting.”
Canadian Armed Forces members gather around a tactical map during an Army Reserve open house at the Regina Armoury, showcasing training and operational planning. (Jacob Bamhour/980 CJME)
That range was on full display throughout the building, where soldiers walked visitors through everything from rifles to heavy machine guns and grenade launchers.
Sgt. Joseph Ricci said even the basic equipment can surprise people.
“Without additional equipment, you’re easily carrying 50 to 60 pounds,” Ricci said.
Not everyone in uniform is in a combat role.
Cpl. Anchelene Ibasco, with 38 Service Battalion, said support trades are critical to every mission.
“We support the infanteers and those who are in combat trades to ensure that we complete our objective,” Ibasco said. “We need to feed people as well. I am a cook by trade.”
She said the unit offers a wide range of opportunities, including vehicle technicians, supply technicians, and administration and financial services roles that can also be performed across the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
A Canadian Armed Forces member stands beside an artillery gun on display outside the Regina Armoury during the military open house on March 21, 2026. (Jacob Bamhour/980 CJME)
For some of the younger visitors, the event left a lasting impression.
“I’m a welder, so I’ve been thinking about possibly getting into welding in the military,” said Jackson Flavel.
Tate Bjornson said he was interested in a different path.
“What really interests me is the mechanics part of the military,” Bjornson said. “That’s what I want to pursue after high school.”
Zess, who has spent more than three decades in the reserves, said that kind of interest is exactly what the military is hoping to build.
“The connectivity with the community is great,” he said. “People can come in, see what we do, and find where their interests might fit.”
Officials said whether it’s combat, trades or support roles, the goal is simple: to show Canadians there’s more than one way to serve.
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