Paul this interview with Wayne Eyre has got to be one of your best ever. It was excellent, very informative and a solid introduction the the quality of this amazing Canadian military officer. This alone made my subscription worth every $
My son recently graduated with a nursing degree and hopes to join the military. When he spoke to a recruiter he was told there wasn’t a need for nurses as it was designated as a trade already full and was discouraged from trying.
Yet when he reached out to nurses and a doctor currently serving in the military he was told there was a great need for nurses, especially with many choosing to leave for civilian life.
I’m guessing my son’s experience points to some of the bureaucratic issues that will need to be addressed if the necessary recruitment levels are going to be reached.
probably Done Exactly as Intended. The goals are more easily achieved/justified if the unfavored queues are empty so there are no credential comparables for the favored queues.
An interview all Canadians should hear. For years I have heard so much negativity about our armed forces. Eyre does not shy away from the problems our armed forces have faced and still face. However he leans into them and discusses solutions. It is so obvious that he is retired. He can offer his opinions without having to tailor his responses which would have been necessary while being the active Commander of our armed forces. Thank you
Thanks so much for having Gen. Eyre (ret) on. His comments and observations were excellent. You gave him several opportunities to slam Trudeau and he forbore. A very classy person.
The point about having industrial capacity available to support the military was a bit rushed, but so damned important. We often hear from the economics chattering class about how industrial policy is wasteful and why don't we just buy all our cars from China and how it's so much more profitable to buy and sell IP and insurance contracts instead of cutting and bending metal.
If we just rely on the global trade system to supply us with all our critical goods while we just deal in Services, we're always going to be last in line for critical goods when a crisis hits. If we can't form metal or refine minerals or make chips, then we can't make ammunition and tanks and drones and ships and airplanes, then we can't support a military, and we can't protect our nation.
Being able to quickly prototype and produce real stuff within our own borders makes us adaptable and innovative and USEFUL in a crisis. Otherwise, we'll be standing around with our collective dicks in our hands like we did during COVID, waiting for aid from abroad.
Industrial policy is not about making toys for boys, it's supporting the critical functions of our economy. It's about being a useful contributor for our allies. It's about defending Canada's sovereignty.
Great interview Paul. Your question to the General about Medak Pocket (that still hasn't received proper recognition from GoC) and the ability of the Canadian Army to be able to function in a full kinetic environment was disappointing but not surprising. Disappointing in that the impression of our general public was that the CAF was a "Peacekeeping Force" only and not capable of combat. Throughout our history, the Canadian Army, Navy and Air Force never once stopped training for war and our ability to be good Peacekeepers is that we had the discipline to carry out orders and complete the mission no matter what the situation.
As the General said; nobody questions the quality of our service people, its the equipment side of the house where the cupboard has been bare for years.
Very interesting interview, thank you Paul. His pro-F35 stance made me pause, in that our European allies are committed to purchasing. That started me searching...Germany seems keen to purchase but Spain and Switzerland might back out. A complex moving target since we would want to be sure of interoperability plus cost for training and maintaining if more than one fighter jet purchased.
PW let the former Chief of Defense Staff execute a clever bait-and-switch to the more of an immature “hero archetype” from the “warrior archetype” to obscure his complicity in the wokification of the Canadian military by Justin Trudeau. I asked Perplexity what is the “warrior archetype”. One would think a career military officer would know what a warrior is. Apparently NOT.
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The "warrior archetype" is a psychological and cultural personality template representing courage, strength, discipline, and a noble sense of purpose. It is one of the major masculine archetypes alongside the King, Magician, and Lover. The core characteristic of the warrior archetype is that it focuses its aggression and energy toward a noble cause or greater good, rather than personal gain. This archetype is characterized by resilience, perseverance, decisive action, and a willingness to face danger or risk personal safety to complete a mission that transcends self-interest.
The warrior archetype is often portrayed as a protector or defender who acts intentionally and strategically. It is associated with physical, emotional, and mental strength and a strong sense of loyalty and discipline. The warrior acts with focus, self-mastery, and courage, able to maintain control of the mind and act decisively when needed. This archetype also symbolizes readiness to fight metaphorical or literal battles to uphold justice, freedom, or beneficial change.
Culturally, warriors are celebrated in myths, stories, and real life, including examples like Spartan soldiers or samurai. The warrior archetype differs from the hero archetype in that the hero’s mission is often self-centered, while the warrior fights for a cause greater than themselves. The warrior's energy is evident throughout life, from early childhood identity formation through adolescence and adulthood, requiring ongoing integration and balance to avoid shadow expressions such as uncontrolled aggression, rigidity, or passivity.
In summary, the warrior archetype is about disciplined courage, noble mission, action, and mastery of self, dedicated to protecting or advancing a higher cause beyond the self.
I prefer to get my information about how Pierre Poilievre defines “warrior culture” from Pierre Poilievre directly, and not from what retired Gen. Eyre arbitrarily assigns as his definition. I highly doubt Pierre views it as an individual thing, but Ret. Gen. Eyre managed to work his own political leanings into his suspect definition.
Pierre can pop by and explain his terms any time. I have extended many, many invitations. Meanwhile I'm pretty sure a 40-year military veteran has some thoughts and I'm sorry you found it too political to handle.
Poilievre won’t have to make up a new fantastical definition of a warrior (unrelated to the entirety of human history) like the General did. All he has to do is acknowledge the historical and common understanding of the meaning of the term. As for Eyre, one can pretty much apply the principle of “Gell-Mann amnesia” to everything he said.
I did not find it “too political to handle”. I am also certain Ret. Gen. Eyre has many insights others do not. None of this negates my opinion despite the fact it ruffled feathers.
Thank you Paul and Gen. Eyre. Outstanding interview. As others have said below this makes me proud and feel much better about where they can get to with adequate political amd governmenral support and $. We need them, not blind reliance on the fickle USA.
Thanks to both Wayne and Paul. I stopped working to listen properly, which is saying something. The discussion was reassuring in the same way as I have felt reassured when listening to Brookings' very good discussions with top military in the US (pre-Trump2). I have created an imaginary advisory group to provide ongoing advice to Cabinet (not just the PM) on strategy and tactics for our now urgently needed transformation of the economy, civil service, and defence. Wayne Eyre is now appointed to that group.
Excellent, excellent interview of Gen. Eyre (retd.), Paul! Thank you.
Linking his discussion to what the Carney government is doing brings up the question about whether Carney Government is doing a good job of it. The next question is whether an effective alternative is available for us, should he not meet the expectations raised. Then I think of Poilievre, and it is a hard NO! He has not displayed any willingness to surround himself and listen to strong leadership contingent. Maybe if Mr. Erin O’Toole becomes the party leader, CPC would be better off as a realistic alternative.
So, I pray that Canadians involved in Mr. Carney’s mega project of strengthening our nation all pull together and rise to the occasion. Including ministers, political staff, public service officials and the CAF leadership. Everyone matters, even if Carney’s name is front and centre.
Paul this interview with Wayne Eyre has got to be one of your best ever. It was excellent, very informative and a solid introduction the the quality of this amazing Canadian military officer. This alone made my subscription worth every $
Agreed. Great interview and informative on how the Can military works.
My son recently graduated with a nursing degree and hopes to join the military. When he spoke to a recruiter he was told there wasn’t a need for nurses as it was designated as a trade already full and was discouraged from trying.
Yet when he reached out to nurses and a doctor currently serving in the military he was told there was a great need for nurses, especially with many choosing to leave for civilian life.
I’m guessing my son’s experience points to some of the bureaucratic issues that will need to be addressed if the necessary recruitment levels are going to be reached.
probably Done Exactly as Intended. The goals are more easily achieved/justified if the unfavored queues are empty so there are no credential comparables for the favored queues.
Excellent interview with Wayne Eyre, feel much more assured about the calibre and effectiveness of the Canadian military
An interview all Canadians should hear. For years I have heard so much negativity about our armed forces. Eyre does not shy away from the problems our armed forces have faced and still face. However he leans into them and discusses solutions. It is so obvious that he is retired. He can offer his opinions without having to tailor his responses which would have been necessary while being the active Commander of our armed forces. Thank you
Thanks so much for having Gen. Eyre (ret) on. His comments and observations were excellent. You gave him several opportunities to slam Trudeau and he forbore. A very classy person.
I wish his hopes will be realized.
The point about having industrial capacity available to support the military was a bit rushed, but so damned important. We often hear from the economics chattering class about how industrial policy is wasteful and why don't we just buy all our cars from China and how it's so much more profitable to buy and sell IP and insurance contracts instead of cutting and bending metal.
If we just rely on the global trade system to supply us with all our critical goods while we just deal in Services, we're always going to be last in line for critical goods when a crisis hits. If we can't form metal or refine minerals or make chips, then we can't make ammunition and tanks and drones and ships and airplanes, then we can't support a military, and we can't protect our nation.
Being able to quickly prototype and produce real stuff within our own borders makes us adaptable and innovative and USEFUL in a crisis. Otherwise, we'll be standing around with our collective dicks in our hands like we did during COVID, waiting for aid from abroad.
Industrial policy is not about making toys for boys, it's supporting the critical functions of our economy. It's about being a useful contributor for our allies. It's about defending Canada's sovereignty.
Great interview Paul. Your question to the General about Medak Pocket (that still hasn't received proper recognition from GoC) and the ability of the Canadian Army to be able to function in a full kinetic environment was disappointing but not surprising. Disappointing in that the impression of our general public was that the CAF was a "Peacekeeping Force" only and not capable of combat. Throughout our history, the Canadian Army, Navy and Air Force never once stopped training for war and our ability to be good Peacekeepers is that we had the discipline to carry out orders and complete the mission no matter what the situation.
As the General said; nobody questions the quality of our service people, its the equipment side of the house where the cupboard has been bare for years.
I would like to hear from others presently in the military!
Very interesting interview, thank you Paul. His pro-F35 stance made me pause, in that our European allies are committed to purchasing. That started me searching...Germany seems keen to purchase but Spain and Switzerland might back out. A complex moving target since we would want to be sure of interoperability plus cost for training and maintaining if more than one fighter jet purchased.
PW let the former Chief of Defense Staff execute a clever bait-and-switch to the more of an immature “hero archetype” from the “warrior archetype” to obscure his complicity in the wokification of the Canadian military by Justin Trudeau. I asked Perplexity what is the “warrior archetype”. One would think a career military officer would know what a warrior is. Apparently NOT.
=======================
The "warrior archetype" is a psychological and cultural personality template representing courage, strength, discipline, and a noble sense of purpose. It is one of the major masculine archetypes alongside the King, Magician, and Lover. The core characteristic of the warrior archetype is that it focuses its aggression and energy toward a noble cause or greater good, rather than personal gain. This archetype is characterized by resilience, perseverance, decisive action, and a willingness to face danger or risk personal safety to complete a mission that transcends self-interest.
The warrior archetype is often portrayed as a protector or defender who acts intentionally and strategically. It is associated with physical, emotional, and mental strength and a strong sense of loyalty and discipline. The warrior acts with focus, self-mastery, and courage, able to maintain control of the mind and act decisively when needed. This archetype also symbolizes readiness to fight metaphorical or literal battles to uphold justice, freedom, or beneficial change.
Culturally, warriors are celebrated in myths, stories, and real life, including examples like Spartan soldiers or samurai. The warrior archetype differs from the hero archetype in that the hero’s mission is often self-centered, while the warrior fights for a cause greater than themselves. The warrior's energy is evident throughout life, from early childhood identity formation through adolescence and adulthood, requiring ongoing integration and balance to avoid shadow expressions such as uncontrolled aggression, rigidity, or passivity.
In summary, the warrior archetype is about disciplined courage, noble mission, action, and mastery of self, dedicated to protecting or advancing a higher cause beyond the self.
Submitting the question to Eyre prior to the interview enabled the general to construct the strawman that he was able to slay heroically.
I prefer to get my information about how Pierre Poilievre defines “warrior culture” from Pierre Poilievre directly, and not from what retired Gen. Eyre arbitrarily assigns as his definition. I highly doubt Pierre views it as an individual thing, but Ret. Gen. Eyre managed to work his own political leanings into his suspect definition.
Pierre can pop by and explain his terms any time. I have extended many, many invitations. Meanwhile I'm pretty sure a 40-year military veteran has some thoughts and I'm sorry you found it too political to handle.
Poilievre won’t have to make up a new fantastical definition of a warrior (unrelated to the entirety of human history) like the General did. All he has to do is acknowledge the historical and common understanding of the meaning of the term. As for Eyre, one can pretty much apply the principle of “Gell-Mann amnesia” to everything he said.
I did not find it “too political to handle”. I am also certain Ret. Gen. Eyre has many insights others do not. None of this negates my opinion despite the fact it ruffled feathers.
tl;dr
That’s unfortunate and your loss.
Great interview Paul. It was good to hear Gen. Eyre (ret.)'s straightforward and thoughtful responses and relatively unvarnished insights.
Thank you.
Thank you Paul and Gen. Eyre. Outstanding interview. As others have said below this makes me proud and feel much better about where they can get to with adequate political amd governmenral support and $. We need them, not blind reliance on the fickle USA.
Thanks to both Wayne and Paul. I stopped working to listen properly, which is saying something. The discussion was reassuring in the same way as I have felt reassured when listening to Brookings' very good discussions with top military in the US (pre-Trump2). I have created an imaginary advisory group to provide ongoing advice to Cabinet (not just the PM) on strategy and tactics for our now urgently needed transformation of the economy, civil service, and defence. Wayne Eyre is now appointed to that group.
Excellent, excellent interview of Gen. Eyre (retd.), Paul! Thank you.
Linking his discussion to what the Carney government is doing brings up the question about whether Carney Government is doing a good job of it. The next question is whether an effective alternative is available for us, should he not meet the expectations raised. Then I think of Poilievre, and it is a hard NO! He has not displayed any willingness to surround himself and listen to strong leadership contingent. Maybe if Mr. Erin O’Toole becomes the party leader, CPC would be better off as a realistic alternative.
So, I pray that Canadians involved in Mr. Carney’s mega project of strengthening our nation all pull together and rise to the occasion. Including ministers, political staff, public service officials and the CAF leadership. Everyone matters, even if Carney’s name is front and centre.
Erin O’Toole is NOT going to be the leader of the CPC. Pierre Poilievre is!
Unfortunately!