Statement – Ministers of Veterans Affairs, National Defence, Indigenous Services, Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern and Arctic Affairs unite to mark Indigenous Veterans Day

OTTAWA, ON, Nov. 8, 2026 /CNW/ — Today, the Honourable Jill McKnight, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence, the Honourable David J. McGuinty, Minister of National Defence, the Honourable Rebecca Alty, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, the Honourable Rebecca Chartrand, Minister of Northern and Arctic Affairs and the Honourable Mandy Gull-Masty, Minister of Indigenous Services, issued the following statement to mark Indigenous Veterans Day:

“Today, we honour First Nations, Inuit and Métis Veterans for their service, sacrifice and enduring contributions to Canada’s military.

“Indigenous Peoples have a long and proud history of military service in Canada. Veterans such as Francis Pegahmagabow, Tommy Prince and Charles Henry Byce demonstrated extraordinary courage and leadership, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to inspire future generations. Their service helped pave the way for Indigenous leaders like Lieutenant-General (Ret’d) Jocelyn Paul of the Huron-Wendat First Nation, who earned the Meritorious Service Cross for his service in Afghanistan, and later became the first Indigenous officer to serve as Commander of the Canadian Army.

“Today, many Indigenous people continue that tradition of service through their roles as Canadian Rangers. As international interest in the Arctic grows, Canada’s security and sovereignty are strengthened by the invaluable knowledge, expertise and experience that Canadian Rangers bring.

“The Government of Canada remains committed to ensuring that all Indigenous Veterans receive the recognition and support they deserve.

“On Indigenous Veterans Day, we invite all Canadians to join us in honouring First Nations, Inuit and Métis Veterans and serving military personnel for their courage, dedication and service.”

Associated links:

• Indigenous Veterans | Veterans Affairs Canada
• People and stories – Indigenous Veterans | Veterans Affairs Canada
• Services | Veterans Affairs Canada

SOURCE Veterans Affairs Canada – Ottawa