Held annually at the memorial stone adjacent to the Point Pelee boardwalk, veterans of Indigenous descent were honoured for their services and sacrifices at a ceremony organized by Caldwell First Nation on the morning of November 8.
Indigenous Veterans Day was first held in 1994, providing a time each year to reflect, heal, and celebrate the Indigenous identity of thousands of soldiers that have served in past wars and as peacekeepers. World War I sniper Francis Pegahmagabow, World War II/Korean War marksman Tommy Prince and the Cree code talkers of World War II are just a few soldiers of Indigenous descent that are finally receiving the recognition that has been long deserved.
Culture & Language Coordinator for Caldwell First Nation — Carrie Ann Peters — was a key organizer in the local ceremony and shared some thoughts just prior to the ceremony. “It’s nice to recognize and to honour our veterans, along with our ancestors that have always helped to protect this land. We are honouring each and every Indigenous warrior.”
This memorial service was very different from what you would find on November 11, beginning with a smudging ceremony, followed by a prayer from a member of Walpole Island First Nation, traditional drumming, a communal offering of tobacco, and an address from Caldwell First Nation Chief Nikki van Oirschot.
“Thank you for providing us a safe home,” said van Oirschot. “Showing up is the least we can do to honour all of those that served.”
Following the address, an eagle wing was passed around to allow all that were gathered to share their thoughts publicly, tobacco was placed on the memorial stone as attendees privately reflected on the day, while another drumming session brought the memorial to its conclusion.
Originally from Nova Scotia and now a Leamington resident, veteran Andre Alber made his way to the service at the national park. He really summed up what the day was about saying, “All people who wear a uniform for their country deserve to be honoured and respected.”
