The National Aboriginal Veterans Monument in Ottawa. Photo credit: ID 254240136 © Stefano Neri | Dreamstime.com

By Curtis Galbraith

Community

Friday marks Indigenous Veterans Day

Nov 7, 2024 | 4:00 PM

November 8 will mark Indigenous Veterans Day.

This day is meant to recognize the First Nations, Metis, and Inuit people who served Canada in the military.

Veterans Affairs Canada says on its website that more than 4000 Indigenous people served in World War I, where 50 earned decorations for bravery.

There were another 3000 First Nations people plus an unknown number of Metis, Inuit and other Indigenous people that served in World War II, with more earning bravery decorations.

Veterans Affairs adds that because a lot of them came from communities where hunting was a way of life, they made good sharpshooters and reconnaissance scouts.

They also served as code talkers in World War II, where messages were communicated in Cree and translated into English so as not to tip off the enemy.

Even with their service, they faced discrimination and exclusion where they returned home.

Grande Prairie’s Veterans Memorial Park & Interpretive Centre will host a ceremony for Indigenous Veterans Day.

People will start gathering Friday at 10 a.m. with the ceremony following at 10:45.