“Stay Frosty” or “Manere Frigidus” is a term Grant Jackson MLA for Sprucewoods is holding onto after he was honoured with an engraved snowshoe plaque recognizing his participation and support in the CFB Shilo 2025 Exercise ROYAL STAG on Jan. 22.

Jackson participated in the winter environmental operations on a -25 C day. He participated alongside international troops and Canadian military members, training to navigate and survive in harsh climate conditions.

While “being frosty” in civilian terms may be interpreted as standoffish or aloof, the military meaning is the opposite. In military colloquialism, the term means “to be alert and ready for action, without letting one’s fear or other emotions get in the way” — basically to stay or be cool.

“I was so very honoured that they took the time to gear me up to get me out there. I learned a lot as they ran some of the officers through building temporary fortifications … It was really quite an excellent experience for me to witness our folks in the training field.”

While Jackson was “surprised and humbled” by the presentation from Base Commander Lieutenant David Cronk and Regimental Sergeant Major Chief Warrant Officer Eric LeClair, he pivoted his attention back to the Base. Jackson told Shilo Stag News that it is the Base Command team who has done so much for the Sprucewoods and surrounding communities.

Having been the Sprucewoods MLA for less than 17 months, he said his experience with the Base has been first-time interactions with a Base Command team.

“Overall, they have done an excellent job as a team connecting with the local community surrounding CFB Shilo,” he said. “… I think these two gentlemen are just going above and beyond.”

“For the folks out there, they are two great Canadians, and they are doing an excellent job. I think we are lucky to have them.”

The snowshoe plaque commemorating the MLA’s military cold-weather training is now hanging in Jackson’s office as a reminder of his time in the field. It reads:
“Presented to Mr. Grant Jackson – In recognition of your friendship, unwavering support, and relentless advocacy of the members of the Canadian Forces Base Shilo and for your participation in Exercise ROYAL STAG – Manere Frigidus …”