Gen Wayne Eyre
Stag Special

When the leaves start to change and students return to class, we know that in just a few short weeks, we will be honouring the valour, duty, and tremendous sacrifices of those who came before us.
Preparations are well under way for this year’s Veterans’ Week activities running Nov. 5 to 11, and the participation of Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members of all ranks and levels is essential.
As members of the CAF, we have a particular responsibility to remind Canadians of the importance of Remembrance Day, and of recognizing the contributions of Canadian veterans, past and present.
The National Veterans’ Week Speakers Program (NVWSP) provides us the opportunity to acknowledge our proud legacy and highlight the diverse work we do, as well as the role we have in our local communities and around the world.
During the past years, many of you have participated in the program and, thanks to your contributions, we have had the chance to connect with hundreds of thousands of Canadians each year, either virtually or in person, sharing our message of Remembrance and building relationships with learning institutions and community organizations across Canada.
While Veterans’ Week activities, like many others during the past few years, have been impacted by the pandemic, that didn’t stop us from being present in our communities, of telling our story, and of honouring our past, even if it is from a distance.
Again this year, the NVWSP will offer virtual alternatives, such as pre-recorded videos, panel discussions and virtual presentations, along with in-person presentations, where public health guidelines permit.
For CAF members who have shared their story through the program in previous years, I thank you for your participation and encourage you to work with your chain of command and local representatives and get involved again this year.
For those who have not yet had the opportunity, you are encouraged to take part in this important annual endeavour. See your Chain of Command regarding signing up.
Gen Wayne Eyre — message from the Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS)
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Each year during Veterans’ Week, Canadians remember and honour the brave individuals who served our country in the past, and we recognize those who serve in uniform today.
The National Veterans’ Week speakers program provides an opportunity for Canadians to connect with active members of the military, to better understand how members of the CAF continue to contribute in their local communities and on the international stage.
CAF speaker video series: Pre-recorded videos for different age groups, as well as links to musical tributes and other video resources. Deadline to request Nov. 2.
Live virtual presentations: Presentations by CAF speakers through on-line platforms. Deadline to request Oct. 20. Will be on a first-come, first-served basis, and speaker availability may be limited.
Q&A panel discussion: This is not a virtual presentation. Offered to students and classrooms simultaneously across Canada, a panel of CAF speakers will be available on Zoom to answer questions. Deadline to request Oct. 25. Will be on a first-come, first-served basis, and space is limited.
There is no charge for any of the offerings made through our online request form.
If you have any questions, do not hesitate to contact the National Veterans’ Week Speakers Program co-ordinator at 1-833-223-8322 or via e-mail DNDRemembrance.SouvenirMDN@forces.gc.ca