President of the Provincial Exhibition of Manitoba Clint Swain, co-chair of the Royal Manitoba Winter Fair presents CFB Shilo Base Commander LCol David Cronk with a commemorative plaque on Heroes Day, March 25. (Photo: K-J Millar/Shilo Stag News)

K-J Millar
Shilo Stag

Military members, firefighters, police and first responders were honoured at the 114th Royal Manotiba Winter Fair opening ceremonies on Heroes Day, March 25.

CFB Shilo Base Commander Lieutenant-Colonel David Cronk and Regimental Sergeant Major Chief Warrant Officer Eric Le Clair were VIP guests alongside their wives at a black-tie formal dinner to which Manitoba Lieutenant Governor Anita Neville provided opening remarks for the commencement ceremonies.

“It’s truly a pleasure to join you here in Brandon for this wonderful celebration of agriculture, animal and community,” she said to guests at the dinner.

“It is especially a pleasure to be here at the Royal Manitoba Fair for Heroes Day as we salute those who protect our safety and values through military, fire, police and emergency services.”

The Lieutenant Governor said she has met many men and women who devote their time, talents, and energy to the safety of their fellow Canadians.

“Today, I join this great festival in thanking the military, police, fire, and EMS personnel for their dedication to what they do for us and all the community.”

While numerous events at the fair display athleticism and innovation, the RMWF has been strengthening the spirit of community in Western Manitoba for more than a century. Many will be dazzled by the horses, which are the main attraction, she said.

“The magic of any such community event is in bringing a group of friends, neighbours, and strangers together to share an experience. In a world with hundreds of channels streaming entertainment into our homes, there is a special feeling we get when we share an evening of wonder in person.”

Opening ceremonies included the 26th Regiment Pipe and Drum band, Shilo Wives choir member singing the national anthem, pony driving, canine all-stars, awards presentations, trick riders and more.

Lieutenant-Colonel Cronk said the significance and efforts of the Royal Manitoba Winter Fair to designate the opening day of the annual event as Heroes Day is immensely appreciated by all members of CFB Shilo.

“This dedicated recognition highlights the strong ties between the Base, the City of Brandon, and its surrounding communities. The ability of military members to attend the opening ceremonies and first night’s activities free of charge was fantastic and spoke to the organizers’ reverence for the military community.”

“We are humbled by these acts of recognition and are honoured to stand shoulder to shoulder with the other first responders in the Brandon Police and Fire and Emergency Services who were also being rightfully recognized at Heroes Day,” LCol Cronk said.

“It was also a privilege to spend a few moments speaking with her Honour, the Lieutenant-Governor Mrs. Anita Neville, about the great work and accomplishments being achieved by the Defence Team here at CFB Shilo. Her Honour spoke fondly of her recent visit last year, and we look forward to hosting her again.”

President of the Provincial Exhibition of Manitoba Clint Swain, co-chair of the Royal Manitoba Fair, said inviting the military and first responders on the first night of the fair plays a huge role and is just one way to say thank you for all they do for our country and our communities.

While the fair is in its 144th year, Swain said it is the 54th year with the “Royal” moniker attached.

“We are very excited about 144 years of tradition showcasing agriculture. This year’s theme is “Take a Leap to the Fair,” Swain said.