In our national anthem, O Canada, there’s a phrase that appears three times, “We stand on guard for thee”.   There’s also a reference to “the true north strong and free” and even “God keep our land glorious and free”.    But let’s focus on the thrice stated “We stand on guard for thee” which hints of a capable military does it not?   A fully functional and staffed Army, Navy and Air Force.  As far as the regular armed forces are concerned, we are undermanned and as far as equipment we appear to be ready for a fist fight with one arm tied behind our back.    We are thousands shy of authorized manpower strength and can’t recruit and train new people fast enough to replace retirees let alone get up to authorized numbers.    Maybe we should do what some other NATO countries do, which is offer short periods of service after which someone can return to civilian life but is trained and ready to defend the country if it ever becomes necessary.  Some will invariably find the military to their liking and make it a career.  My dad spent three decades in the RCAF, and I don’t remember either he or my mom complaining about their lives that included moving every few years.  Of course,  I liked leaving friends I had made less and less while growing up, but I survived obviously and have fond memories of places I have been and people I have known, a few of which I have gotten back in touch with via social media.  Anyway, If we are to meet our NATO commitments the powers that be at National Defense perhaps need to change the approach to recruitment and retention in our Armed Forces.