AFN National Chief Perry Bellegarde Joins First Nations Veterans to Mark Remembrance Day at National Ceremony in Ottawa

Doug Knockwood and wife, Michelle attend Remembrance Day Ceremony in Ottawa 2017. Photo courtesy of Perry Bellegarde Facebook. 

(Ottawa, ON) – On Remembrance Day, Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Perry Bellegarde will be joined by First Nations veterans for ceremonies in Ottawa to honour all, who have served their country with bravery and pride.  First Nations veterans fought for freedom in World Wars I and II, the Korean War and Vietnam War, and First Nations citizens continue to serve their country in military and peacekeeping missions around the world.

“On this day we remember those who served their people and their country, knowing that the quest for justice continues for First Nations veterans, their spouses and families. This is especially the case for those living in rural or remote communities trying to access services provided by Veteran Affairs Canada,” said AFN National Chief Bellegarde. “In April I was with First Nations veterans in France at the Battle of Vimy Ridge centennial to witness a powerful and moving ceremony for the thousands of fallen soldiers buried in foreign lands. Today, and every day we remember the incredible sacrifice and lasting contributions of our veterans and those who continue to serve.”

This Saturday on Remembrance Day, National Chief Bellegarde will be honoured to take part in the commemorative ceremony at the National War Memorial with 86 year old First Nation Veteran Doug Knockwood from Nova Scotia. The ceremony starts at 11 a.m. Eastern Time.

This year First Nations Veterans participated in the international commemoration ceremonies at Vimy Ridge, Dieppe and Passchendaele.