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Cfb ShiloCanadian Forces Base Shilo (or CFB Shilo) is an Operations and Training base of the Canadian Armed Forces located 35 km East of Brandon, Manitoba. During the 1990s, Canadian Forces Base Shilo was also designated as an Area Support Unit, which acts as a local base of operations for south-west Manitoba in times of Military and Civil Emergency. History and demographics CFB Shilo has been a training facility for the Armed Forces since 1910, and saw an increase in its use as a training facility following the outbreak of World War I. The principle purpose of this base is for training in Artillery and Munitions, activities audibly recognized, though not begrudged, by generations of nearby residents. The existence of the base has enhanced the economic stability of the surrounding area through contracted employment with the Department of National Defence, and provision of off-base services to staff and trainees. CFB Shilo provides employment for approximately 1,400 military personnel, as well as an additional estimated 450 civilian personnel. Geographic/geological significance The landscape in this area is particularly well suited to these operations. The rolling hills are well suited to hidden target firing drills. Soil compositions of loose sand/gravel aggregates are also ideal for Artillery and Munitions training. The lack of surface bedrock outcropping greatly reduces the chances of hazardous ricochets during live-fire exercises and also assists in the safe retrieval and secure disposal of both detonated and un-detonated ordinance. Associated units CFB Shilo is the home of the 1st Regiment, Royal Canadian Horse Artillery (1RCHA), the 2nd Battalion, Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry (2PPCLI)—both battalions of the 1 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group—as well as being the Home Station of the Royal Canadian Artillery. It also serves as a base for some support units of Land Force Western Area, including 731 Signals Squadron. External connections/partnerships In addition to providing training for the Canadian Military, CFB Shilo also hosts military personnel from other NATO Member Nations who undergo rigourous training at this facility. The past has also seen CFB Shilo used to train RCMP Officers and employees of the Manitoba Department of Corrections. Fiduciary concerns Since the late 1970s, CFB Shilo has been the subject of much political debate regarding the possibility of ceasing operations due primarily due to the costs associated with operating and maintaining the base. These political arguments arise regardless of which political party forms the respective Federal and Provincial governments. At this point, the issue has been debated for approximately 25 years and there are still no definitive decisions as to the continuation or cessation of operations. External links *Example of political pressures facing CFB Shilo
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