Corporal (Cpl.) Steven Morin

Corporal Steven Morin joined the Forces looking to make a significant contribution to the world through humanitarian missions abroad. Most recently, he was deployed to the Philippines as part of the Disaster Assistance Response Team (DART). The team was dispatched to the Philippines after Typhoon Haiyan slammed into the island nation on November 8, 2013. It was one of the strongest typhoons ever recorded and it caused severe devastation. The Canadian Armed Forces made significant contributions to the disaster relief effort by providing clean water and medical care to the affected population, and by helping to clear debris, opening roads and re-establishing electricity. “The Forces have given me the opportunity to travel around the world, to be in the front seat witnessing major events that most people only hear about through the media,” Steven says. “There is pride in being able to say, ‘I was there…’.”

The Forces have given me the opportunity to travel around the world, to be in the front seat witnessing major events that most people only hear about through the media

Steven grew up in the Saguenay region of Quebec where he worked as a security guard prior to joining the Forces. In addition to his passion for humanitarian missions, he was also attracted to the military for the job security and opportunities for career advancement. Steven cites the spirit of camaraderie in the Forces as one of his favourite parts of being in the military. “The best aspect of my job is the support I get from my colleagues who wear the uniform,” he enthuses. “Whether it’s looking after my family while I’m away or simply helping me to move a fridge, I’m never alone, I’m never stuck.”

This support was important to Steven, his wife and their two young sons on his first posting, which moved them to a new Anglophone environment. “We were posted to Kingston, Ontario, which was completely foreign to two hard-core Saguenéens,” he recalls. “We became extremely resourceful. Faced with all these different tasks, I learned fast!” He says that the move has been a positive change for his family. As a result, his children are bilingual in both official languages, a benefit that will serve them well for the rest of their lives.

With a busy career that sometimes pulls him away from home, Steven appreciates every moment he gets to spend with his wife and children. “What’s important for me is spending all my time with my family when I’m home,” he says. “My leisure activities revolve around my family. When I’m home I like to be 100% there, both for my wife and my children.” Even when away on operations, Steven says, “My family gives me all the support I need to carry out the mission. Despite the distance between us, I know they’re there for me.”

Steven believes that the Forces have something to offer for everyone, no matter what skills they have. “The diversity of the Forces means that every personality type has something to offer.” He advises potential recruits to consider their natural aptitudes and personal interests when selecting a job. “Don’t think twice about it!” he urges. “Make the jump. You will surprise yourself!”