At Vernon Cadet Camp in 1962, a member of Guard Coy had a self inflicted wound from a bayonet.
http://www.army.forces.gc.ca/land-terre/news-nouvelles/story-reportage-eng.asp?id=877
Monday, January 30, 2006
WINNIPEG, Manitoba — Any soldier who has ever done a parade knows things can go wrong. Rifle drills in a Distinctive Environment Uniform is straightforward but when a bayonet and combat clothing are included problems can arise.
For example, parts of the C7 rifle can get caught on the combat shirt during drill movements.
Private Eric Schroeder experienced this predicament last month during a change of command parade at Minto Armoury involving the 17 (Winnipeg) and 18 (Thunder Bay) Service Battalions.
Private Eric Schroeder receives treatment from Corporal Trevor Meredith. Private Eric Schroeder receives treatment from Corporal Trevor Meredith.
During one of the many "Present…ARMS" at the beginning of the parade, the scope of his C7 rifle caught the pocket of his combat shirt, causing his rifle barrel to jolt back and the bayonet to strike his forehead. This resulted in a trickle of blood that ran from his forehead down to his mouth.
"I didn't think much about it until I felt the blood dripping down my face," said Pte Schroeder.
The injury remained unnoticed until the reviewing officer, Lieutenant-Colonel John Robins, stopped to talk to him.
Pte Calin Ritchie, a medic with 17 (Winnipeg) Field Ambulance was called forward and told to clean up his face. "I'm fine, it's not that bad," stated Pte Schroeder.
The injured soldier kept his position and never wavered during the rest of the parade. Once they were marched off and dismissed, Pvt Schroeder went to be treated by Corporal Trevor Meredith of 17 (Winnipeg) Fd Amb.
"Other than this, my drill was better than normal," said Pte Schroeder. "I feel better now. It should heal without a scar."
Article and photos by Corporal Bill Gomm
Photo Captions:
Lieutenant-Colonel John Robins, LCol Peachey and LCol Brian Batter stop to talk with Private Eric Schroeder during the inspection. Pte Schroeder struck his face with his bayonet during a “Present Arms”.
Private Eric Schroeder receives treatment from Corporal Trevor Meredith.