Private Angele LeBlanc, member of CFB Shilo DIAG, sings and drums at the flag-raising ceremony on Sept. 26 to mark National Truth and Reconciliation Day across the country on Sept. 30. (Photo: K-J Millar/Shilo Stag Media)

 National

Truth and Reconciliation is a significant issue at CFB Shilo, said Base Commander Lieutenant-Colonel David Cronk at a flag-raising ceremony on Sept. 26.

The Defence Indigenous Advisory Group (DIAG) flag was raised in front of a crowd of more than 30 people as a banner and visual reminder of National Truth and Reconciliation Day commemorated across the country on Sept. 30.

“It’s an important thing here on Base. One of the key aspects that came out of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission is that all Canadians have a role in acknowledging the wrongs of the past, working toward a better future and better relationship with Indigenous people,” LCol Cronk said.

Forwarding the cause of national truth and reconciliation is a heartfelt endeavour personally and as a Base Commander, he said. Just the day before the commemorative ceremony, with Indigenous drumming and singing, LCol Cronk and Base Regimental Sergeant Major Chief Warrant Officer Eric LeClaire were in Edmonton until 5 p.m. They drove through the night to ensure they could be present at the 8:30 a.m. morning flag-raising.

Tricia Harpe, member of CFB Shilo DIAG said it is important for CFB Shilo to take part in Truth and Reconciliation by having survivors of residential schools talk about their lives in the schools, afterward and how they are healing now, such as the two education seminars held on Base Sept. 26.

“The flag raising is important to show our support to all the Indigenous Groups(First Nations, Metis and Inuit),” she said.

CFB Shilo Base Command team raises the DIAG flag, on Sept. 26, to honour National Truth and Reconciliation Day held on Sept. 30. (Photo: K-J Millar/Shilo Stag Media)

The Defence Indigenous Advisory Group flag waves a banner at CFB Shilo to honour National Truth and Reconciliation Day held on Sept. 30. (Photo: K-J Millar/Shilo Stag Media)

Photo: K-J Millar/Shilo Stag Millar