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DND failed to assist injured cadets of '74 Valcartier explosion

A report by military ombudsman finds cadets who survived the 1974 CFB Valcartier grenade explosion were mistreated and should be financially compensated. From our archives, here is our conversation with three survivors haunted by that horrific day.
The Current · CBC ·
A cadet honour guard stands by a new memorial that marks the spot where six teenaged cadets were killed by a grenade in 1974. (Catou Mackinnon/CBC)

A report released by military ombudsman finds the Department of National Defence should have done more for cadets who survived the 1974 CFB Valcartier grenade explosion, that killed 6 teenage cadets and injured over 50 other cadets at a safety demonstration. He also added in the report that victims should be adequately compensated.

The report also states "at least 53 per cent" of the cadets who were injured and witnessed the explosion still suffer from physical and/or psychological injuries and should be assessed for care. 

The Department of National Defence has responded to the report saying the Canadian Armed Forces will be taking "immediate action" to ensure the surviving victims receive the help they need.  

In May 2011, The Current spoke to three survivors haunted by that horrific day at a cadet training camp in Valcartier, Quebec. 

Here is the full conversation with guest host Tom Harrington: 

The Current39:50From The Current Archives: Survivors haunted by '74 Valcartier grenade explosion
A report by military ombudsman finds cadets who survived the 1974 CFB Valcartier grenade explosion were mistreated and should be financially compensated. From our archives, here is our conversation with three survivors haunted by that horrific day.

Gerry Fostaty was an 18-year-old reserve sergeant in charge of the platoon at Valcartier that day. He has recounted that day in his new book "As You Were: The Tragedy of Valcartier." 

Peter Van Kampen was a 15-year-old cadet. He was in the room when the hand grenade went off. 

Charles Gutta was the company sergeant that day in July of 1974 and has been pushing for the Canadian government to provide compensation to cadets suffering from PTSD and injury. 
 

This segment was produced by The Current's Howard Goldenthal.