Introduction to Blacksmithing in Perth, ON

Soldier On will host a local Introduction to Blacksmithing at Forged in Canada in Perth, ON. This event take place on 7-8 December from 7:50 a.m. to 5 p.m. This activity will bring together both serving and retired ill/injured CAF members, allowing participants to connect through peer support and encourage a healthy and active lifestyle.

The event will introduce local Soldier On members to the creative skills and equipment required to blacksmith and to socialize with other Soldier On members.

Ill/injured members will receive instruction and mentoring in the art of blacksmithing. Forged in Canada focuses on teaching using heritage techniques and tools. This fundamentals course is an exciting, hands-on two-day course providing participants the opportunity to understand the traditional role of the blacksmith by learning the basic principles of working metal in a forge.

Assistance throughout the event will be provided courtesy of Forged in Canada.

The number of Soldier On participants is limited to six.

Minimum eligibility criteria
Any serving member or veteran of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) in the Soldier On - Eastern Ontario Region from within two hours of Perth, ON (This does not include members from the NCR) who acquired a permanent physical or mental health illness or injury while enrolled as a member of the CAF; whether attributable or not to service.

Serving Members
Medical clearance may be required by your chain of command.

Mental & Physical Requirements

• Participants must be able to tolerate eight hours of moderate paced activities for two days in a row.
• Due to the busy activity schedule, applicants must have a limited requirement for rest throughout the day.
• Participants will be joined with other ill/injured members and civilians, and therefore should be able to function in a social environment.

Participants must be able to:

• Continuously swing a heavy hammer and endure noise and heat;   
• Stand for long periods; 
• Work above the level of the anvil and fire to prevent injury to the face (Forges are at approximately 35 -40” high and Anvils are at approximately 31” high); 
• Work on an uneven dirt floor;  
• Use a hammer with one hand and manipulate the steel with the other hand in all directions; 
• Wear PPE (steel toed boots, leather gloves, and glasses); and 
• See and hear instructions.

Equipment required by the participants:

• Leather gloves and safety glasses will be provided by the service provider.
• Participants must bring their own steel toed boots and wear natural fibre clothing such as jeans or coveralls.
• Hearing protection is recommended.

Business Waiver: a waiver is required to be signed by each participant.

Transport and Meals
Participants are advised that meals and transportation will not be provided by Soldier On. Participants will be required to arrange their own travel to and from the event location, travel and meals are not eligible for reimbursement for this event.