CDS Message: 2023 National Veterans’ Week Speakers Program

September 29, 2023 – Defence Stories

Veterans’ Week (November 5-11) is an important time of year for those of us who wear the uniform of the Canadian Armed Forces. As we participate in Remembrance events, ceremonies, and speaking engagements across the country, telling our story, and honouring our past, we are also connecting with Canadians in a deep and meaningful way.

Playing a visible role in our local communities during this time is important, especially as we look to grow the CAF. 

The National Veterans’ Week Speakers Program (NVWSP) provides us with that opportunity, and it is important now, more than ever, that we acknowledge our proud legacy and highlight the important work we do here at home and around the world. Some of the young Canadians you reach through this activity may be inspired to serve, the way you were once inspired.

Many of you have participated in the program in the past and, thanks to your contributions, we had the chance to connect with hundreds of thousands of Canadians each year, either virtually or in person, sharing our message of Remembrance and building relationships with learning institutions and community organizations across Canada.

As planning begins for fall activities, I’m asking senior leaders to make allowances for CAF members who would like to participate in the NVWSP. I’m also encouraging you to think about the potential impact that hearing a CAF member’s story of Remembrance might have on Canadians who are contemplating joining our ranks.

The NVWSP anticipates the return to in-person presentations will generate a significant increase in demand for CAF speakers, and it can’t succeed without the participation of CAF members of all ranks. We need to make the time to engage with Canadians, especially today’s youth, and remind them of the valour, duty, and tremendous sacrifices of those who came before us.

For CAF members who have shared their story through the program in previous years, I thank you for your participation and encourage you to work with your chain of command and local representatives to get involved again this year. For those who have not yet had the opportunity, you are encouraged to take part in this important annual program.

A CDS Tasking Order (accessible only on the National Defence network), CANFORGEN (accessible only on the National Defence network) and Public Affairs Guidance are now available online.

General Wayne Eyre
Chief of the Defence Staff