MOOSE JAW — The federal government says it has no problem with Coun. Crystal Froese being named an honorary colonel at 15 Wing Air Base even though it happened almost a month before the municipal election.
MooseJawToday.com reached out to the Canadian Armed Forces about Froese’s appointment after several residents expressed concern that the designation may be a conflict of interest for the military in light of the November election.
15 Wing/2 Canadian Forces Flight Training School (2 CFFTS) installed Froese as honorary colonel (HCol) on Oct. 1. The role is a longstanding tradition and is open to former air force officers and distinguished Canadian citizens. These individuals help maintain customs and traditions, foster a sense of esprit de corps within the military family, and connect other units through the HCol network during a three-year tenure.
The rank comes with a tailored uniform, and when in full dress attire, her rank is saluted, and she’s required to follow all existing military protocol as is required for the rank of colonel.
In an email to MooseJawToday.com, a military spokesman dismissed the concerns that people may have.
“The appointment of Crystal Froese as honorary colonel of 2 Canadian Forces Flying Training School is a result of her demonstrated dedication to helping 15 Wing and 2 CFFTS connect with the community and the region,” the spokesman said.
“Her nomination and acceptance of this appointment predates her announcement for candidacy for mayor. The nomination does not constitute a Canadian Armed Forces or 15 Wing/RCAF endorsement of her political candidacy.”
As per the RCAF Honorary Colonel handbook, honorary colonels are expected to uphold the political impartiality of the Canadian Armed Forces, not use their position for political purposes, and demonstrate the values expected of all members of Canada’s military, the spokesman said.
The position is unpaid and held for three years, while for context, an honorary appointment does not in itself cause the appointed person to become a member of the Canadian Armed Forces.
“Restrictions for CAF members to accept an office in a municipal corporation or other local government body or allow themself to be nominated for election to such office applies only to Regular Force members,” the spokesman added.
Froese announced on Oct. 3 in Crescent Park that she is running to be mayor in the civic election. She plans to focus on enhancing economic development, addressing homelessness with other partners, finding solutions to address major infrastructure challenges and continuing to serve on municipal and community committees.
There is still time for residents to submit their paperwork for the 2024 municipal election. The deadline to give that information to city hall is Wednesday, Oct. 9, by 4 p.m.
