Wednesday November 8th is Indigenous Veterans Day

(Interview with Indigenous veteran Wanbdi Wakita)

Indigenous Veterans Day is observed in Canada on November 8, in recognition of Indigenous contributions to military service, particularly in the First World War, Second World War and the Korean War. National Aboriginal Veterans Day was first observed in Winnipeg on November 8, 1994 and has since been observed nationwide.

(National Aboriginal Veterans Memorial)

Indigenous peoples have served in times of war and peace for more than 200 years since the War of 1812 to Afghanistan and many continue to serve. For many years, that service was often overlooked and underappreciated.

It is estimated that more than 7,000 Indigenous people served in the First and Second World Wars and the Korean War, and an unknown number of Inuit, Métis and other Indigenous people also served. Some estimates indicate that up to 12,000 may have served in the Canadian Forces in the past century.

Many Indigenous people also currently continue to serve in the Canadian Armed Forces in Canada and on operations around the world. They continue to uphold the proud legacy of service of past generations.

Go here to read some inspiring stories of other Indigenous veterans.