Honouring quiet service: Canadian Intelligence Corps unveils Afghanistan commemorative artwork

September 14, 2026 - Defence Stories

Estimated read time – 1:57

Members of the Canadian Intelligence Corps gathered at the Vimy Officers' Mess in Kingston on August 26 to unveil a commissioned artwork recognizing the service of Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) Intelligence Branch personnel who supported Canada's mission in Afghanistan.

Bringing together serving and retired members, Afghanistan veterans, and current and former Canadian Army leaders, the ceremony provided an opportunity to reflect on a period of service that shaped many intelligence professionals within the branch and contributed to Canada's operations in Kabul and Kandahar. More than a painting, the artwork serves as a lasting tribute to the dedication, professionalism, and commitment of Intelligence Branch members.

Commissioned by the Senate of the Canadian Intelligence Corps, the project was funded through non-public funds generated from voluntary contributions under the CAF Non-Public Funds (NPF) framework. The strong support for the initiative reflects the importance members place on preserving the branch's history and recognizing those who deployed in support of Canada's mission.

Inspired by the experiences of intelligence personnel deployed to Kabul and Kandahar, the painting depicts an operational reality that was rarely visible to the public. While intelligence activities often take place away from the spotlight, they remain essential to supporting and enabling personnel on the ground.

"Through this artwork, we are preserving an important chapter of our institutional history and recognizing our members whose contributions often occurred behind the scenes but were critical to operational success," said Lieutenant-Colonel Casey Anderson, an Intelligence Officer at NATO Headquarters in Brussels, Belgium, and Heritage Advisor for the Canadian Intelligence Corps, who initiated and led the project beginning in late 2022. "It stands as a lasting reminder of the service and dedication of Intelligence Branch members who supported Canada’s mission in Afghanistan."

The unveiling also highlighted the importance of preserving institutional memory within a modern and evolving force. By recognizing the experiences of those who served, the CAF reinforces the professionalism, shared purpose, and institutional continuity that connect past and present generations.

The artwork was created by internationally recognized military artist Stuart Brown, whose work has captured military history and service through a distinctive and respected artistic lens. The painting provides a powerful visual reminder of the Intelligence Branch's role during one of Canada's most significant military commitments of the 21st century.

As attendees gathered around the newly unveiled painting, many reflected not only on operational achievements, but also on the people, experiences, and sacrifices represented on the canvas. For members of the Intelligence Branch, the artwork ensures that an important chapter of their history will continue to be remembered for years to come.

The painting will remain on display at the Vimy Officers' Mess in Kingston. While access is currently limited due to its location within Canadian Forces Base Kingston, opportunities to make it more widely accessible are being explored.