After more than 11 years of loyal and dedicated service to the Canadian Armed Forces and the Canadian Military Engineer Branch, MCpl E.M. McCracken,will retire on 27 June 2025. A DwD reception will be held on 1 Aug at 10:00 at the Bricks and Barrel kitchen (414 Old Highway 2, Trenton, Ontario). If attending, please RSVP to Sgt Brian Englehart: brian.englehart@forces.gc.ca. Anecdotes and well wishes may be sent to the same individual.
Master Corporal Eldon McCracken will retire from the Canadian Armed Forces on June 29th, 2025, after 11 years of committed service to the Royal Canadian Air Force. His late entry into military service at the age of 49 is a testament to his lifelong dedication to duty, professionalism, and growth.
Born on June 29, 1965, Eldon began his working life as a brick and block layer before earning his commercial truck driver’s license in 1994. He spent two decades driving transport trucks across Canadian highways before answering the call to serve his country.
MCpl McCracken joined the Canadian Armed Forces on 13-May 2014. He completed his basic training in Saint Jean Quebec in Aug 2014, then completed his Firefighting qualification training at CFB Borden in 2015. MCpl McCracken was posted to 4 Wing Cold Lake in July 2015, where he spent six years contributing to the effectiveness and readiness of the wing’s firefighting operations. In 2019, he became the designated driver instructor, qualifying countless members on the safe operation of various fire apparatus—an essential role that ensured operational safety and preparedness.
In 2019, he deployed to Romania for OP Reassurance for four months, representing Canada on the international stage and supporting allied operations with professionalism and pride.
In 2021, he was posted to 8 Wing Trenton as a crew member, where his leadership and experience led to his promotion to Chief Fire Inspector in 2022. In this role, he was responsible for enforcing fire safety standards, reviewing and accepting countless building plans and mentoring younger members within the fire prevention office. MCpl McCracken attended his PLQ course in 2022 where he successfully demonstrated strong leadership potential and dedication to professional development. Following this course, he was promoted to the rank of Master Corporal, marking a significant milestone in his military service.
MCpl McCracken’s career was made stronger by the unwavering support of his loving spouse, Marlene. A dedicated member of the CAF in her own right, Marlene serves as a FOS-2 in the base kitchen and is no stranger to the demands of military life. She has proudly stood beside Mcpl McCracken throughout his postings, courses etc, demonstrating resilience, adaptability, and commitment both to her family and the Forces. Her contributions and sacrifices alongside his journey are deeply appreciated.
MCpl McCracken is respected for his steady presence, his practical knowledge, and his ability to lead by example. His contributions to fire prevention and emergency services have had a lasting impact on the CAF community.
As he transitions to civilian life, Eldon looks forward to enjoying a well-deserved retirement, with more time to spend with family and the freedom to explore new opportunities.
He leaves behind a legacy of service, integrity, and mentorship. His presence will be missed, and his contributions will not be forgotten. We wish MCpl McCracken fair winds and following seas in this next chapter of life