17 August 2026 – St. Albert, Alberta – Veterans Affairs Canada

The service and sacrifices of Canada’s Veterans are an integral part of our shared history. Through collaboration with Veterans Affairs Canada and the Government of Canada, community organizations throughout Alberta are helping Canadians learn about, honour and remember the people, places and events that have shaped our nation’s military heritage.

The Honourable Jill McKnight, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence, highlighted nearly $300,000 in Commemorative Partnership Program funding for 31 projects across Alberta.

These initiatives reflect the ongoing efforts of local organizations to preserve and share Veterans’ stories and legacies, while engaging Canadians of all ages and backgrounds in meaningful ways that deepen understanding and appreciation of Canada’s Veterans.

One example of creative engagement is No Gamer Left Behind’s Cadets Historical Hobby Workshop Series, which will engage approximately 1,000 cadets in Edmonton and Calgary in learning about the legacy of No. 2 Construction Battalion, Canada’s first and only all-Black battalion. Founded by first responders and Veterans, No Gamer Left Behind will combine military history education with hands-on play to explore the Battalion’s history, encouraging learning about the experiences and contributions of its members.

Through a broad range of both traditional and innovative commemorative events, educational activities, exhibits, memorials and other community-led initiatives, organizations across Alberta are helping ensure that the service, sacrifice and contributions of Canada’s Veterans continues to be recognized, remembered and shared with future generations.

14 August 2026 – Edmonton, AB – Veterans Affairs Canada

The Government of Canada proudly recognizes individuals who make lasting contributions to the well-being of Canadian Veterans and who help preserve the memory of their service, sacrifices and achievements.

At ceremonies held in Calgary on August 13 and Edmonton on August 14, the Honourable Jill McKnight, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence, presented the Minister of Veterans Affairs Commendation to eight volunteers:

• Francis Aranha, Calgary, Alberta
• Jo-Anne Valerie Carter, Meadow Lake, Saskatchewan
• Chris Casey, St. Albert, Alberta
• Russell Clark, Calgary, Alberta
• William (Bill) Dickson, St. Albert, Alberta
• Harvey Linnen, Regina, Saskatchewan
• Robert (Bob) Merrick, Calgary, Alberta
• Christie Lynne Strazza, Cherry Grove, Alberta

To learn more about the Minister of Veterans Affairs Commendation or to nominate someone for this award, visit veterans.gc.ca.

Ottawa, ON – Today, the Honourable Jill McKnight, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence, the Honourable David McGuinty, Minister of National Defence, the Honourable Anita Anand, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and the Honourable Gary Anandasangaree, Minister of Public Safety, issued the following statement to mark National Peacekeepers’ Day:

“Today, we honour the courage, service, and sacrifice of Canadian peacekeepers who have helped bring hope, stability, and security to communities around the world.

“From the Caribbean to the Mediterranean, from the Balkans to Africa, from the Middle East and Asia to Central America, Canadian peacekeepers have played an essential role in advancing and maintaining international peace and security. For more than seventy years, peacekeeping has reflected Canada’s enduring commitment to helping those affected by conflict and crisis.

“Canada’s peacekeeping legacy began during the 1956 Suez Crisis, when Lester B. Pearson, then Secretary of State for External Affairs, proposed a model for a sizeable, armed United Nations peacekeeping force to prevent a wider war. For his vision, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize and helped established a model that continues to shape international peace operations today—including as Force Commander—in this seminal mission.

“Since then, more than 125,000 members of the Canadian Armed Forces, over 4,500 police officers and hundreds of civilians have served in peace support missions around the globe. Through their dedication, professionalism, and compassion, they have brought hope to communities facing uncertainty and hardship.

“Tragically, approximately 130 Canadians have lost their lives while serving in peacekeeping missions, and many more have endured long-lasting physical and psychological injuries.

“National Peacekeepers’ Day marks the anniversary of a tragic event on 9 August 1974, when nine Canadian peacekeepers were killed after their routine United Nations supply aircraft was shot down over Syria while en route to the Golan Heights. It remains the single largest loss of Canadian life in the history of UN peacekeeping.

“As we mark this sombre anniversary, we honour not only those who served, but also the families, loved ones and communities who stood beside them and shared in their sacrifices. Their legacy reminds us that peace is never guaranteed. It is built through courage, perseverance, and a steadfast commitment to human dignity and human rights.

“Thank you for your selfless commitment to advancing peace, security and human rights around the world.

“Lest we forget.”

Associated links

• National Peacekeepers’ Day – August 9th | Veterans Affairs Canada
• Canada and international peacekeeping | Veterans Affairs Canada
• People and stories – Peacekeeping | Veterans Affairs Canada
• International Peace Operations | Royal Canadian Mounted Police

July 28, 2026

VANCOUVER — The Honourable Jill McKnight, Minister of Veterans Affairs, on behalf of the Honourable Tim Hodgson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, will make an announcement regarding international energy exports. Media availability will follow. 

Date: Wednesday, July 29, 2026

Time: 8 a.m. PT

All accredited media are asked to pre-register by emailing [email protected]. Details on how to participate will be provided upon registration.

Ottawa, ON – Today, the Honourable Jill McKnight, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence, and the Honourable David J. McGuinty, Minister of National Defence, issued the following statement:

“As we mark Korean War Veterans Day, we honour the courage, sacrifice and service of the more than 26,000 Canadians who valiantly protected peace and democracy during the Korean War from 1950 to 1953. Of those who served, 516 Canadians tragically lost their lives in defense of peace and democracy.

“Although the armistice signed 73 years ago today brought an end to active fighting, Canada’s commitment to the Korean people continued. Nearly 7,000 Canadian Armed Forces members remained in Korea in peace support roles until the final contingent returned home in 1957.

“Many Veterans returned carrying the lasting scars of war, and they continued to serve their communities and help build the Canadian society we know today. As Sergeant-at-Arms in the Nova Scotia legislature, Noel Knockwood stood sentry at annual Treaty Day celebrations, helping strengthen understanding between the Mi’kmaq community and the provincial government. After turning to painting to process his traumatic memories, Ted Zuber became the official artist for the Korean War. Through his powerful depictions of wartime service, generations of Canadians have gained a deeper appreciation of the courage, hardship and resilience of those who served.

“The legacy of the Korean War generation continues to inspire those who wear Canada’s uniform today. Whether helping protect peace and security, responding to natural disasters at home, or supporting allied operations abroad, members of the Canadian Armed Forces embody the values of courage, sacrifice and commitment to service exemplified by those who served in Korea.

“On Korean War Veterans Day, we invite Canadians to remember the bravery and sacrifice of those who served. Their service reminds us that peace, freedom and democracy must never be taken for granted. As we honour their legacy, let us ensure their stories continue to be shared and their sacrifices never forgotten.”

Associated links:

• Korean War | Veterans Affairs Canada
• People and stories – Korean War | Veterans Affairs Canada

Ottawa, ON – Today, the Honourable Jill McKnight, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence, issued the following statement:

“Today marks the 100th anniversary of The Royal Canadian Legion, a milestone that recognizes a century of service, remembrance, and community support across Canada. 

“Incorporated by a special Act of Parliament in 1926 to unite organizations of Veterans of the First World War across the country, the Legion emerged from a desire to support Veterans and their families, honour the sacrifices of those who served, and strengthen a sense of national unity. Those founding principles continue to guide its work today. 

“For generations, the Legion has been a gathering place for Veterans, military families, and Canadians from coast to coast to coast. Through the Poppy campaign, remembrance activities, youth education programs, advocacy and community service, it has helped ensure that the stories, sacrifices, and achievements of Canada’s Veterans are neither forgotten nor taken for granted. 

“The Legion has played an important role in supporting Veterans as they transition from military and RCMP service to civilian life. Through guidance, advocacy, and practical assistance, it has helped connect Veterans and their families with the services, programs, and support they need. 

“Veterans Affairs Canada is proud to work alongside the Legion in our shared commitment to honour service and support Veterans, members of the Canadian Armed Forces and RCMP, and their families. Together, we strive to ensure that those who have served Canada receive the recognition, care and support they deserve. 

“On this 100th anniversary, we thank The Royal Canadian Legion, its members, volunteers, and supporters for a century of dedication to Veterans and to communities across our country. As the needs of Veterans continue to evolve, the Legion’s enduring spirit of service, remembrance, and community remains as important as ever, continuing to connect generations of Canadians through a shared commitment to those who have served.”

Associated links:

• The Royal Canadian Legion: 100 Years of Service 
• Accessing services

Ottawa, ON – Today, the Honourable Jill McKnight, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence, and the Honourable David J. McGuinty, Minister of National Defence, issued the following statement:

“Fifteen years after the end of Canada’s combat mission in Afghanistan, we honour the more than 40,000 Canadians who served in the longest combat operation in Canada’s history. 

“In the aftermath of the attacks of September 11, 2001, Canadians answered the call to serve alongside allies in the fight against terrorism. Until the last Canadians left Afghanistan in 2014, every branch of the Canadian Armed Forces had a critical part in the operation, and members demonstrated extraordinary courage, professionalism and dedication time and time again.  

“Their service underscored the importance of nations working together to defend shared values of peace, freedom, democracy, human rights and the rule of law. A quarter century after the mission began, and 15 years after the Canadian combat role ended in 2011, their legacy continues to shape how Canada and its allies confront evolving security threats in an increasingly complex world.  

“Tragically, 158 CAF members and seven Canadian civilians died during the mission in Afghanistan, and thousands more returned with physical and psychological wounds.  

“Their service and sacrifice will be forever memorialized at the National Monument to Canada’s Mission in Afghanistan. When complete, the monument will be a sacred space for contemplation, reflection and remembrance of the contributions of those who served in Afghanistan and those who supported them from home.  

“On this 15^th anniversary of the end of this combat mission, we remember the courage and resilience of the Canadian Armed Forces members who deployed to Afghanistan and the families that served alongside them. We remember those we lost, support those who continue to live with the visible and invisible wounds of service, and reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that their sacrifices and legacy are never forgotten. Any Veteran in need of assistance is encouraged to call 1-800-268-7708 to speak to a mental health professional.”

Associated links:

• Afghanistan | Veterans Affairs Canada

• People and stories | Veterans Affairs Canada

Ottawa, ON – Today, the Honourable Jill McKnight, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence, and the Honourable David J. McGuinty, Minister of National Defence, issued the following statement:

“Today, we mark the 110^th anniversary of the formation of No. 2 Construction Battalion, a Black Canadian Army unit whose service, sacrifice and perseverance helped shaped our nation’s history.

“Despite facing widespread discrimination, many Black Canadians stepped forward to volunteer for service in the Canadian Army during the First World War. On 5 July 1916, the segregated No. 2 Construction Battalion formed in Pictou, Nova Scotia. From its formation through the end of the war, approximately 800 Black men from Canada, the United States and the British West Indies were associated with the Battalion and served honourably in support of Canada’s war effort.

“Their story is one of remarkable courage and determination. While they endured prejudice and exclusion, they performed their duties with professionalism, dedication, and pride.

“Their contributions remind us that service to Canada has always been strengthened by those who persevere in the face of adversity.

“Today, the legacy of No. 2 Construction Battalion is reflected in a Canadian military that is integrated and diverse, and that empowers the best in all its members. While the circumstances of service have changed, the values of professionalism, duty and dedication to Canada continue to define those who wear the uniform.

“On this anniversary, we honour the bravery, resilience, and patriotism of the Black Canadians of No. 2 Construction Battalion. We remember their sacrifice, celebrate their legacy, and recommit ourselves to carrying forward the values they embodied in service to Canada.”

Associated links

• No. 2 Construction Battalion – Canada.ca
• Black Canadians in uniform | Veterans Affairs Canada

3 July 2026 – Ypres, Belgium – Veterans Affairs Canada

The Government of Canada recognizes individuals who make meaningful contributions to the well-being of Veterans and who help preserve the memory of their service, sacrifices and achievements.

Today in Ypres, Belgium, the Honourable Jill McKnight, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence, presented the Minister of Veterans Affairs Commendation to nine international volunteers:

• Eric Compernolle, Zonnebeke, Belgium
• Pieter De Meester, Kalmthout, Belgium
• Jean-François Husson, Jambes, Belgium
• Danny Jones, Knokke-Heist, Belgium
• Freddy Jones, Knokke-Heist, Belgium
• Bert Kellens, Izegem, Belgium
• Frank Raeman, Eastern Flanders, Belgium
• Luc Titeca, Zonnebeke, Belgium
• Gilbert Van Landschoot, Adegem, Belgium

Among the recipients are brothers Danny and Freddy Jones, who have each devoted more than 45 years to ensuring the contributions of Canadian soldiers are remembered by future generations. They helped establish the “1,000 Maple Leaf Flags for 1,000 Fallen Canadian Soldiers” initiative, which honours Canadians buried at the Canadian War Cemetery in Adegem. They also played a leading role in the creation and continued operation of the For Freedom Museum in Knokke-Heist.

These are two examples of the individuals recognized today for their efforts to support and strengthen remembrance in their communities.

For more information about the Minister of Veterans Affairs Commendation or to nominate someone, visit veterans.gc.ca.