Community leader and Chief of Swan lake First Nation lays a wreath at the Indigenous Veterans’ Day ceremony at CFB Shilo on Nov. 8. Photo: K-J Millar/Shilo Stag News

K-J Millar
Shilo Stag

Indigenous people have a proud tradition of military service, CFB Shilo Base Commander LCol. David Cronk at the commemorative Indigenous Veterans’ Day ceremonies on Nov. 8.

Indigenous peoples have served in many conflicts including in the Boer War, both World Wars and the Korean War, LCol. Cronk said, as well as in more recent action in the Balkans, the Middle East, Afghanistan and “wherever the Canadian Armed Forces has deployed its members.”

“We also acknowledge the tremendous contributions of Indigenous communities on the home front,” he said. addressing a crowd of more than 200 people including community leaders of the Swan Lake First Nation, local school students, plus military personnel and civilians.

Indigenous Veterans’ Day is a time to honour all First Nations, Inuit and Métis veterans who have served Canada, the Base Commander said.

“We remember the Indigenous peoples who lost their lives, whose lives were forever impacted and their families and communities who have lost loved ones. We also extend our deepest gratitude to all currently serving Indigenous Canadian Armed Forces members for their continued service and dedication to Canada.”

“Today, we remember Indigenous soldiers from Manitoba like Alfred Chartrand from Skownan First Nation, who was a Sapper with the Canadian Engineers and fought bravely with much courage in World War I, giving the ultimate sacrifice on May 31, 1918, and buried in Pas de Calais, France. As well [we remember] Norman Thomas Beauchamp of Long Plain First Nation, who fought bravely in World War II and the Korean War.

On this significant day of remembrance, we acknowledge and honour the courage, sacrifices and important contributions of all First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples who serve and continue to serve across all generations. On behalf of CFB Shilo, please take a moment to reflect on the significant contributions and sacrifices of Indigenous members in the service of Canada,” LCol. Cronk said.