Honouring First Nations, Métis and Inuit Veterans for their service to Canada
Nov 10, 2023 | Ishmael Van Der Rassel, Student Storyteller
This week, Canada recognized National Indigenous Veterans Day to honour and commemorate the service and contributions of First Nations, Métis and Inuit veterans.
On this day, we honour the contributions of Indigenous veterans to Canada’s military and peacekeeping efforts and their sacrifices for the freedoms we cherish today.
Over 12,000 Indigenous people served in the First World War, Second World War and Korean War. During their service, Indigenous men brought valuable skills to the Canadian military such as stealth, marksmanship and patience. This included Indigenous men serving as reconnaissance scouts; that had the responsibility of gathering information on enemies positions.
First Nations soldiers were named “Code Talkers” where they secretly communicated and delivered military intelligence in Cree. Code Talkers provided important service that helped protect allies and fellow soldiers.
Miigwetch to all Indigenous veterans – past, present and future for their valuable contributions and service to our country.