Daniel T'seleie
Northern News Services

Yellowknife (Apr 02/04) - Bill Laferte's son, Arthur Lafferty, is marching in the footsteps of the Metis Rambler.

Lafferty was officially sworn in as a private in the Canadian Armed Forces Monday during a ceremony in Yellowknife.

He joins the Canadian Infantry, the same branch his father served in.

Lafferty, who is originally from Fort Simpson, now makes his home in Yellowknife.

Lafferty admits the fact his father, who died in July 2003, served in the armed forces was one reason for joining. But it wasn't the only reason Arthur signed up.

"The jungle is my office and the mountains are my desk," Lafferty said. He enjoys being outside, travelling and excitement. He wants to be stationed somewhere with "lots of activity."

Lafferty is not a cowboy though. His thirst for action is actually career oriented.

"The more activity I see the better my career profile will be," Lafferty said. He hopes to make it into Canada's counter-terrorism forces someday.

Friends and family were joined by Nahendeh MLA Kevin Menicoche to watch Monday's ceremony.

Praise efforts

"You're making us proud," said Menicoche, who went on to praise Lafferty's efforts and determination in the legislative assembly later that day.

Lafferty is headed off to St. Jean, Que., where he will begin 28 weeks of training April 5.

"I expect it to be a lot of fun, but also very demanding," Lafferty said. He has already completed two introductory training courses for Canadian aboriginals.

The purpose of both courses is to give native people a chance to experience military life without long-term commitment.

It worked on Lafferty, who has developed a zest for the work and whose picture (along with several other marching recruits) now graces the cover of the Canadian Forces Aboriginal Entry Program promotional brochure.

Warrant Officer Floyd Powder is confident Lafferty will excel in his new career.

"When he puts his mind to it he gets things done," Powder said.

Powder says Lafferty was the top candidate at both of the training programs he has already attended.

Despite the fact he is seeking "activity" (Lafferty does not like to use the term "combat"), his biggest concern is not for his safety. He is more worried about a certain morning chore.

"I'm good at making the bed, but it's tedious," Lafferty said.

Bill Laferte wrote the Metis Rambler column in the Deh Cho Drum for many years.