NEWS RELEASE
BRADFORD LEGION
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Aboriginal Canadians have been part of our proud military history for over 200 years.
During the War of 1812, they were vital allies in the protection of Canada, helping protect the citizens of this emerging country from attacks and invasions of Americans. Since then, thousands served bravely in both World Wars, the Korean War and Afghanistan War. Indigenous Canadians continue to be a valuable part of our Canadian Armed Forced and UN Peace Keepers today.
Some of these Indigenous Veterans are some of the highest decorated soldiers, aviators and sailors in our military history. Sergeant Tommy Prince was a member of 2nd Battalion, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry at Kapyong, and was one of the most decorated aboriginal soldiers in Canada.
Aboriginal Veterans Day was established in Manitoba in 1994 and has since spread across the country to the other provinces and has been renamed National Aboriginal Veterans Day, recognized annually on Nov. 8. It’s a day to recognize and acknowledge the many contributions and sacrifices of Indigenous not only to Canada’s war efforts but to its peacekeeping reputation.
Today, about 3.5 per cent of the Canadian Armed Forces is of First Nation descent, representing many distinct cultures. They continue to make Canada proud through their service at home and abroad. We should honour their contributions and of those before them.
In this day and age of reconciliation, acknowledging Indigenous roles in the protection of Canada will help other citizens understand what true reconciliation means to the country as a whole. We must never forget the sacrifices and accomplishments of Indigenous Veterans, especially as we move forward in our journey of healing, reconciliation and a renewed relationship between Canada and its First Nations peoples.
Nov. 8 is about making efforts to better understand the role Indigenous Veterans have played in Canada, and expressing our heartfelt gratitude. Ceremonies are held across Canada to mark this day, and Canadians across the country should pause for a minute or two to honour our Indigenous Veterans
On behalf of the Royal Canadian Legion and Ontario Command we want to thank all Indigenous Canadians past and present for their services and sacrifices.
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