Honouring and Thanking Indigenous Veterans

"Veterans’ Week is a time to remember the courage and sacrifice of those who have served Canada from past to present, and express our endless gratitude for their service. As we pause today to mark Aboriginal Veterans Day, we thank the thousands of Indigenous Canadians in uniform who answered the call of duty and made the ultimate sacrifice. Their contributions and efforts have helped our country in its efforts to make this world a safer place."

The Honourable Kent Hehr,
Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence

"Reconciliation is about all Canadians making efforts to better understand our history and chart a new path together, and that includes learning about the sacrifices made by First Nations, Métis, and Inuit women and men serving in the Canadian Armed Forces. Today we thank and honour all those who served, those who lost their lives and those whose lives were changed forever."

The Honourable Carolyn Bennett, M.D., P.C., M.P.,
Minister of Indigenous and Northern Affairs

"A special day to honour the Indigenous people of Canada who have provided voluntary military service to Canada since 1812."

Mr. Richard Blackwolf,
President of Canadian Aboriginal Veterans and Serving Members Association

"November 8 has been designated as Aboriginal Veterans Day. This is a solemn reminder of the sacrifice made by our indigenous Peoples and their commitment to Canada. We honour the memory of those who have fallen in battles from our First Nations, Metis and Inuit communities who fought alongside other Canadians, in many global conflicts, for the preservation of peace and security. We also honour those who continue to serve this great country. Your sacrifice will never be forgotten."

Mr. Robert Thibeau,
Aboriginal Veterans Autochtones