The next best thing to donning a uniform and working at CFB Esquimalt is visiting the enormous military base for free.
Summer bus and walking tours allow thousands of visitors to explore the past and the present of naval operations, from heritage buildings to warships to ghostly hauntings.
Two-hour guided walking tours happen Saturdays until Aug. 27 (excluding July 2 and 30). Meet at 11 a.m. at the main HMC Dockyard gate at the end of Esquimalt Road.
Ninety-minute bus tours are available weekdays until Aug. 26 (except July 1 and Aug. 1), starting at 11 a.m. outside the CFB Esquimalt Naval and Military Museum, 1299 Naden Way.
Photo ID is required, except for children 12 and under. For information, please call 250-363-2595.