BLIND RIVER— In the heart of this small northern Ontario town, Dan Deschamps, a 56-year-old veteran, has embarked on a personal mission that embodies both physical endurance and profound meaning.
With a military background spanning from 1988 to 1994 and additional service from 2018 to 2021, Deschamps has donned various uniforms, serving in the Artillery and Infantry units across Canada and Europe.
His latest endeavour, however, transcends the battlefield; it’s a commitment to community, remembrance, and the enduring spirit of service.
Deschamps, who held the rank of Bombardier in the Regular Forces and Corporal in the Reserves, is no stranger to the rigours of military training.
He completed basic training on weekends in Hamilton, Ontario, at the age of 50, humorously noting, “It was precisely three decades after my initial basic-training experience.”
This dedication to service, even in the later stages of life, underscores his commitment to personal growth and community engagement.
Initially, Deschamps had prepared to participate in a 24-hour rucking event in Indiana during the May long weekend. However, economic challenges stemming from the current situation in the United States led him to withdraw.
Instead, he has redirected his efforts toward organizing a local event that coincides with Remembrance Day on November 11, 2025, in collaboration with the Blind River Legion, Branch 189.
Rucking, a term that might be unfamiliar to many, refers to the act of walking or running with a weighted backpack over extended distances—a fundamental aspect of military training.
For Deschamps, rucking represents more than just a physical challenge; it serves as a metaphor for resilience, determination, and the burdens borne by veterans.
As he trains, often seen trekking along Highway 557, Rob Road, or Forest Glen in full military attire and a weighted pack, Deschamps is not merely preparing for an event; he is sharing his journey with the community.
In his outreach via social media, he explained his intentions clearly: “I wanted to advise my neighbours of my training regimen. Over the next couple of months, you may see me out and about, rucking.”
With each step, Deschamps embraces the natural beauty of the Blind River area, finding empowerment in the crisp air and the scenic surroundings.
Rucking provides him with not only exceptional cardiovascular and strength training benefits but also an opportunity to connect deeply with the environment and the community.
Despite his enthusiasm, Deschamps is aware that his presence on the roadside may arouse concern among passing motorists. He recounted moments when drivers stopped to offer him rides, mistakenly believing he was lost or in distress.
With humour, he reassured them: “For those who have stopped and asked if I wanted a ride, a big thanks, but I am good.” His light hearted approach and gratitude for their kindness reflect his intention to foster understanding of his mission.
Deschamps’s rucking journey also serves as a poignant tribute to his fellow veterans. Friends who have served alongside him inspire this endeavour, and he aims to embody the camaraderie and sacrifice that characterize their experiences.
The weighted backpack he carries symbolizes the visible and invisible burdens many veterans face, making his training not just an exercise in fitness but a powerful act of remembrance.
As he continues his training, Deschamps has noticed a shift within the community. Initial curiosity about his rucking has morphed into recognition, with residents greeting him with waves and nods of acknowledgment.
Some have approached him to inquire about rucking, eager to learn about its physical and mental benefits. Deschamps welcomes these discussions, ready to share his enthusiasm and knowledge about this unique form of exercise.
Each ruck has become a time for reflection, allowing him to contemplate the lessons learned from each stride. With every step, he is not only preparing for an event but also forging a path toward personal growth, deeper community ties, and a shared commitment to honour the sacrifices of those who served.
Dan Deschamps’s journey is a reminder that even at 56, with decades of military service behind him, one can still strive for personal excellence while uplifting others.
As he trains for the event, he does so not just for himself but for every veteran who has carried their burdens with honour and dignity.
The roads of Blind River have become more than just a backdrop; they have become the stage for a journey that inspires others to embrace their own challenges, one step at a time.