Former Chilliwack-Fraser Canyon MP Chuck Strahl has been appointed by the Minister of National Defence to a three-year term as the Royal Westminster Regiment's new Honorary Lieutenant-Colonel.

The practice of honorary regimental appointments in Canada dates back more than a century, according to a press release issued Tuesday.

The role of the Honorary Colonels and Honorary Lieutenant-Colonels to serve as links between the community and the Canadian Forces.

"I'm absolutely delighted to be asked to serve in an honorary capacity with The Royal Westminster Regiment," Strahl said in the release. "These men and women deserve our full support, and I look forward to helping them connect with the communities and people throughout our district."

The positions are filled by former armed forces officers or distinguished Canadian citizens.

"As an Honorary Officer, Lt. Col. Strahl will work to make the strong bonds that unite the regiment and the various communities in the County of Westminster even stronger," Colonel Baker-MacGrotty said. "Being well-known in the community, Lt. Col. Strahl will actively act as an ambassador making local business, government and community leaders aware of the role the regiment, the reserves and Canadian Forces play in civic and national affairs."