Indigenous veterans and military personnel were honoured in Victoria on Wednesday (Nov. 8).
An Indigenous Veterans Day ceremony was held at the cenotaph at the B.C. legislature, featuring the laying of wreaths and a moment of silence.
“We have gathered to pay our respects,” said Ken Hall, Pacific Region Defence Indigenous Advisory civilian co-chair. “I hope we are spreading awareness. Seeing the crowd that gathered here today is heartwarming.”
The day is observed annually to remember the sacrifices of First Nations, Metis and Inuit people who have served.
“This day is significant,” Hall added. “We want to make sure that the respect and appreciation for veterans is acknowledged. They have endured tremendous hardships. This is a day to show our utmost acknowledgment for Indigenous veterans.”
The flag atop the B.C legislature buildings was also lowered to half-mast to mark the occasion.
“We stand with our brothers and sisters in uniform across this land,” Petty Officer 1st Class Steve Morrison said. “This is now being embraced across the country.”
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