Commander of the Canadian Army presented with the Eagle Staff

News Release

June 17, 2015

OTTAWA – Lieutenant-General Marquis Hainse, Commander Canadian Army and Defence Champion for Aboriginal Peoples, was presented with the DND and CAF Eagle Staff today in Ottawa during the Defence Aboriginal Advisory Group’s (DAAG’s) 20th anniversary celebration.

The ceremony took place at the National Aboriginal Veterans Monument in Confederation Park, and was the first stop on the Staff’s journey across Canada as it assumes its role as the travelling symbol of unity among Aboriginal Peoples in the defence community.

Quick Facts

The creation of the Department of National Defence (DND) and Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) Eagle Staff began in 2002, with two former Aboriginal CAF members, Chief Petty Officer, 2nd Class (Retired) Debbie Eisan and Petty Officer, 2nd Class (Retired) Chris Innes. Their vision was inspired by the desire to create a powerful symbol of unity among Aboriginal women and men in DND and CAF, past and present.
The DND and CAF Eagle Staff became the traveling emblem of the Aboriginal Peoples on the Defence Team. It is a reminder that Canada will never forget the legacy of the First Peoples. The Staff represents traditional Aboriginal culture and clans, as well as traditional belief in spiritual entities, healing and reverence for the Creator and all life.
The Staff must maintain a visible presence at Aboriginal celebratory functions. Therefore, it will be carried to events and ceremonies across the country whenever requested.
The DND and CAF Eagle Staff was presented to Lieutenant-General Hainse so its meaning can be reinvigorated and recognized by current and future generations. The Staff travelled from its current location in Halifax to be recognized at the ceremony in the National Capital.
The month of June marks National Aboriginal History Month. It provides opportunities for all Canadians to gain a greater knowledge and understanding of First Nations, Inuit and Métis cultures, traditions and contributions to Canada. Moreover, National Aboriginal Day celebrations will take place across Canada on June 21st.

Quotes

“I am honoured and humbled to receive the Eagle Staff. It is with great respect and dedication that I promise to uphold the tradition of this sacred symbol. The ideals for which the Staff stands, including bravery, integrity and strength of character, reflect the Canadian military ethos and I am very proud to share this honour with the defence community.”
Lieutenant-General Marquis Hainse, Commander Canadian Army
Department of National Defence and Canadian Armed Forces Defence Champion for Aboriginal Peoples

“This Eagle Staff is a powerful emblem that reinforces the values of inclusivity and respect for all members of the defence family, both past and present. It reminds us to recognize and value the ways in which the unique cultural, spiritual and traditional identities of the First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples enrich the military culture.”
Debbie Eisan, Eagle Staff Visionary
Chief Petty Officer, 2nd Class (Retired)

Canadian Army Links

Lieutenant-General Marquis Hainse, Commander Canadian Army and Defence Team Champion for Aboriginal Peoples, receives the Department of National Defence (DND) and Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) Eagle Staff at the 20th anniversary of the Defence Aboriginal Advisory Group celebration in Ottawa.

The DND/CAF Eagle Staff is the travelling symbol of unity among Aboriginal women and men in the defence community.

Photo: Cpl Philippe Archambault, Directorate Army Public Affairs

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Media Relations

Department of National Defence
Phone: (613) 996-2353
Toll-Free: 1 866 377-0811
Email: mlo-blm@forces.gc.ca

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Commander of the Canadian Army presented with the Eagle Staff

News Release

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