November 9th, 2017 – In partnership with Veteran’s Affairs Canada, CAHRD hosted an Aboriginal Veteran’s Day Ceremony to honour past and currently serving veterans of Aboriginal descent.
Community members, dignitaries, and CAHRD staff and students gathered in the historic Rotunda of Neeginan Centre Inc. to pay tribute through song, poetry and a traditional colours ceremony. CAHRD’s Vice-Chairperson Bill Shead emceed the event and Padre Doug Harney provided a welcoming address. AIM Manitoba drum group sang an honour song for the grand entry of the Colour Party, members of which included Jerry Woodhouse, Robert Carriere, Joe Meconse, Doug Harney, George Anderson, Horace Masson, Bill Greenwald and Lauren Stevenson.
The Colour Party was followed by members of Command Team of 17 Wing. Elder Velma Orvis lead the crowd in an invocation, followed by readings of “In Flanders Fields” and “For the Fallen” by CAHRD students Noreen Spence and Sean Fontaine.
Local organizations, families, and community members laid wreaths in memory of those fallen. In conclusion of the ceremony, attendees were invited to place their poppies on memorial crosses and thank present veterans for their service and dedication. A luncheon service was then held for all who attended.
