Photo: PM goes out with Gjoa Haven Rangers

Prime Minister Stephen Harper, third from left in the boat, waves as he participates in Operation Nanook 13 with members of the Canadian Rangers in Gjoa Haven Aug. 21. While there, he marked the expansion of the Canadian Rangers by welcoming Private Nigel Nakoolak, from Coral Harbour, as the 5,000th Ranger. “Our Government has expanded the Canadian Rangers, our eyes and ears of the North, as they serve a critical role in safeguarding Canadian sovereignty,” Harper said. “It was an honour to patrol with the Rangers today, as they work to defend our territory from potential threats and emergencies and keep our North strong, secure and free.” Harper’s next stop on his 2013 Arctic tour: Rankin Inlet on Aug. 22, when, among other events, he will meet with Inuit leaders at an “Inuit-specific meeting.” Read more about Harper’s day in the Kivalliq hub later on Nunatsiaqonline.ca. (PHOTO BY JASON RANSOM)