Page 34 - Beausoleil First Nation

Honouring Veterans
Recognizing and acknowledging our veterans is an important
part of who we are. We have a strong military tradition within
the community. Our ancestors were instrumental in the War of
1812. We, like many other First Nations people, participated in
great numbers in World War I, World War II, and the Korean War.
Often, a greater percentage of our population served than in
other Canadian communities.

In Canada, we tend to remember and celebrate those who
have fought to ensure our place and future once a year on
Remembrance Day when we observe a moment of silence.
Among First Nations communities, veterans are recognized
more frequently. It is common to hear special honour songs
at the beginning of powwows, as well as prayers or words of
acknowledgment during other formal gatherings.

This plaque that is by the
Administration Building and near
the ferry landing tells the story of
our participation in the War of 1812.

On the island, we invite veterans from local Legions to join
us for a colour parade. In recent years, a young man from our
community family organized a full marching band visit to the
island. This showed the importance of our military traditions. It
was also pleasing to hear both the big drum of our culture and
the Canadian marching band mark the date.

32 Beausoleil First Nation

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