After more than 6 years of loyal and dedicated service to the Canadian Armed Forces and the Canadian Military Engineer Branch, Cpl R.P. Bostad, (00301) will be released on 3 June 2026.
Departure with Dignity (DWD)
A DwD reception will be held on 29 May at 1200 at Ken's Diner (Edmonton). If attending, please RSVP to MCpl G. Alger: Gustine.Alger@forces.gc.ca. Anecdotes and well wishes may be sent to the same person.
After more than six years of loyal and dedicated service to the Canadian Armed Forces and the Canadian Military Engineers, Corporal Robert “Rob” P. Bostad, will retire on 03 June 2026.
Cpl Bostad was raised on a small hobby farm in central Ontario, where he developed foundational values of hard work, self-reliance, loyalty, and helping others. Much of his childhood was spent outdoors working, building, and solving practical problems, experiences that would later influence both his civilian and military careers.
After completing high school, Cpl Bostad initially pursued post-secondary studies in nursing at St. Lawrence College. During this period, he accepted a summer position in the problem-solving, dynamic work envHirVoAnCmetrnatdse, ,awndhethr e hceamquaircakdlyerfioeucnodmampoanssaimononfogr shkailnledds-on tradespeople. He progressed rapidly, earning multiple trade licenses through night classes and gaining experience with increasingly complex projects. Despite professional success, he sought a more challenging and meaningful career path.
Recognizing an opportunity to combine his technical skills with service, Cpl Bostad applied to join the Canadian Armed Forces as an RM Technician. Despite limited intake availability, he successfully qualified through the aptitude testing process and was accepted into the trade. Following completion of basic training and occupational training, he was posted to Edmonton, Alberta. Assigned to Real Property Operations Unit (West), Cpl Bostad gained extensive on-the- job experience supporting base infrastructure through maintenance, repairs, and taskings across CFB Edmonton. This posting proved formative, as he worked alongside motivated peers and mentors who contributed significantly to his personal and professional development.
Throughout his service, Cpl Bostad distinguished himself through initiative, adaptability, and technical proficiency. His ability to apply complex trade skills in demanding and time-sensitive environments made him a reliable and valued member of his unit.
Outside of his military duties, Cpl Bostad has maintained a lifelong interest in mechanics and building. His projects have included the restoration of classic vehicles, motorcycles, and dirt bikes, as well as the construction of furniture and large-scale personal builds. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he completed the construction of a full basketball court within the loft of a barn—reflecting both creativity and perseverance.
As he transitions from military service, Cpl Bostad intends to continue applying the skills, discipline, and values developed during his CAF career toward future professional opportunities and personal pursuits. He remains committed to continuous self-improvement and supporting others, carrying forward the mentorship and camaraderie that shaped his service.