Profession or calling? Hobby or sport? Whatever the case, the personalities tied to such a profession evoke mysticism, superhuman qualities, and secrecy for many people. Perhaps not the most accurate descriptors, but their bullets are far more precise than the words one could use to describe this fascinating and dangerous line of work.
The Oscar-winning Léon: The Professional starring Jean Reno and Natalie Portman comes to mind, showcasing the enigmatic and cold-blooded nature of such individuals. Another notable example is Enemy at the Gates, featuring Jude Law.
Will a film about the subject of our story ever be made? That remains a big question. However, his life and career undoubtedly deserve attention. More at Edmontonski.
Childhood and Youth
The future renowned military sniper was born on November 11, 1976, on picturesque Fogo Island in Newfoundland.
While most of his peers spent their days playing soccer, this young boy was drawn to something else entirely. At an early age, Rob showed a natural talent for shooting, mastering rifle skills with both hands.
What began as a childhood hobby evolved into a career, as he embarked on a military path.
Journey as a Military Sniper and Record Holder
At 21, Rob officially began his military career, enlisting in the Canadian Armed Forces. Soon after, he joined the 3rd Battalion, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry—one of three regular infantry regiments of the Canadian Army.
His skills and dedication did not go unnoticed. By 1998, Rob was serving as a peacekeeper in Bosnia.
In March 2002, during Operation Anaconda in Afghanistan’s Shah-i-Kot Valley, Rob made history. In a firefight, he set a record for the longest sniper kill by striking an enemy target from 2,430 metres with three consecutive shots to different body parts, each spaced just three seconds apart. This achievement surpassed the previous record held by his comrade Aaron Perry by 120 metres.
Rob’s record stood until 2009 when Corporal Craig Harrison surpassed it with a shot from 2,475 metres. Nonetheless, Rob and his team were awarded commendations by the U.S. Army for their actions in Afghanistan.
A New Chapter in Edmonton
After his military career ended, Rob moved to Edmonton at the age of 28. Faced with the choice between joining the police force or the elite Joint Task Force 2 (JTF2), Rob opted for the Edmonton Police Service.
After eight years with the police, Rob opened the Rob Furlong Shooting Academy in Edmonton. Here, he trains the next generation of marksmen, passing on his expertise.
A Legacy in Military and Film
Rob Furlong’s military achievements earned him a place in history as a sniper record-holder and a recipient of the Bronze Star. His expertise even led him to a small role in the film world. In 2009, Rob starred in Sniper: Inside the Crosshairs, directed by Emre Şahin.
Rob has truly found his place in life. His story has all the elements for a future film—an idea that remains a possibility. As the saying goes: “Never say never.”