Winnipeg Honors Indigenous Veterans in Reconciliation Event

Indigenous military members wore camouflage ribbon shirts and beaded medallions as eagle staffs were raised high at a Winnipeg military base, celebrating generations of service that often went unrecognized.

The Southern Chiefs' Organization, Manitoba Métis Federation, and Manitoba Inuit Association partnered for Saturday's reconciliation event at 17 Wing/CFB Winnipeg. Community leaders, politicians, and dignitaries joined veterans and active service members to honor Indigenous contributions to Canada's armed forces.

The timing held special meaning, falling just one day before National Indigenous Peoples Day. A military aircraft flypast soared overhead as attendees gathered for the ceremony's grand entry.

SCO Grand Chief Jerry Daniels reminded the crowd that First Nations people have always answered the call to serve. "Many served this country while their own rights, freedoms and families were not treated with the same dignity and fairness that they deserved," he said, noting that Indigenous veterans often returned home to discrimination and lack of proper recognition.

Northern and Arctic Affairs Minister Rebecca Chartrand shared that both her grandfathers served in World War II, with one losing an arm in combat. "In times of global conflict, Indigenous peoples historically have not hesitated," she said.

Justin Woodcock, who manages SCO's veterans program and served nearly a decade in the Canadian Armed Forces, explained the event's deeper purpose. Creating spaces where Indigenous service members can celebrate both parts of their identity makes them more effective at their jobs, he said.

Why This Inspires

This ceremony represents more than remembrance. It's actively building bridges between Canada's military and Indigenous communities, addressing historical wrongs while creating new pathways forward.

MMF Veterans Minister Shawn Nault, who served from 1987 to 1995, spoke of his family's long military tradition spanning from his ancestors to his daughter. Standing among fellow Indigenous veterans gave him the chance to honor service members past, present, and future in one meaningful moment.

The partnership between three major Indigenous organizations shows united commitment to ensuring Indigenous military contributions receive the recognition they've always deserved.