The Government of Canada recognizes the Creation of Canada’s Permanent Military Force (1871-1883) as a national historic event

August 14, 2025                              Kingston, Ontario                       Parks Canada

Parks Canada and the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada are holding a plaque unveiling ceremony to commemorate the historic significance of the Creation of Canada’s Permanent Military Force (1871-1883). The plaque unveiling will take place as part of Fort Henry National Historic Site’s weekly sunset ceremony.

The establishment of Canada’s permanent military force in 1871 marked the end of British military dependence and the start of military professionalization, as Canada assumed responsibility for its own defence and militia training following British troop withdrawal.

Please note that this advisory is subject to change without notice.

The details are as follows:

Date:                Friday, August 15, 2025

Time:                Media availability will be from 6:25 p.m. to 6:40 p.m. (EDT) ahead of the event.

Ceremony starts at 6:55 p.m. (EDT)    

Media are asked to arrive at 6:15 p.m. (EDT)     

An RSVP is required for entry to this event. Members of the media can RSVP by contacting Kelsey Bowles at Kelsey.bowles@pc.gc.ca by Thursday, August 14, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. (EDT).

                                                                                            -30-