National Indigenous Veterans Day honours military service in both World Wars, the Korean War and beyond, on Sunday, Nov. 8.
As many as 12,000 First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Canadians brought valuable tracking, stealth, marksmanship, and hunting skills, according to Veterans Affairs Canada.
Alberta Métis soldier Henry Louis Norwest, a sniper in the Canadian Corps, earned a military medal and bar, while Cree code talker Charles “Checker” Tomkins utilized his unique skill in the Second World War.
Around 118 Indigenous soldiers from Alberta fought in the war. However, the number of veterans could have been higher since race and ethnicity were not recorded.
To honour and learn more about our Indigenous Veterans, you can go to various events around the city between Nov. 8 – 9.
Indigenous Peoples & Canada’s Military: A National Aboriginal Veterans Day
Where: The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland
Location: 750 9th Ave SE, Calgary
When: Nov. 8, 1:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Details: Commemorates Indigenous veterans’ service, sacrifice, and the historical injustices many faced during and after their service. The event features lectures and discussions from Jerry Potts, Naamaakaakomi (Going to Shoot), a member of the Northern Piikani Nation and the fifth-generation Jerry Potts. In addition, Earl Robert “Bob” Crane, Onastaipooka (Calf Child), is a member of Siksika First Nation and a retired Canadian Armed Forces Major. He served for 33 years, from 1970 to 2003, beginning in the ranks before being commissioned as an officer.
Cost: Free, with donations recommended. Register here.
Where: The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland
Location: 750 9th Ave SE, Calgary
When: Nov. 8, 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Details: A beginner-friendly workshop instructor and skilled Métis artisan, Janis Laboucane, will teach you step-by-step how to create a beautiful, handmade flower pin to wear for any occasion. Please bring a lunch or pre-order, as this workshop runs all day. Ages 16+. Register here.
Cost: $100 (+fees).
Indigenous Veterans: Stories of Service and Resilience
Where: The military museums
Location: 4520 Crowchild Trail SW, Calgary
When: Nov. 8, 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Details: A special presentation exploring the military contributions, stories, and resilience of Indigenous service members. Free admission; registration is not required (18+ or general public check).
Indigenous Veterans Day Gathering
Where: Montgomery Community Association (Bowness)
Location: 5003 16 Avenue NW
When: Nov. 9, 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Details: Elder Cheryle Chagnon-Greyeyes will share the story of Sergeant Tommy Prince (Canada’s most decorated Indigenous World War II veteran), along with her own perspective as an Indigenous veteran. A light lunch and conversation follow the talk. Free admission. Register here.
Location: 200 Memorial Dr NW
Details: Sunrise and Sunset ceremonies are held each day from November 1 until November 10. Please arrive 15 minutes before sunrise or sunset. Visitors are encouraged to stop in front of each cross that moves them to pay respect to that soldier by quietly calling out their name, holding their hand over their heart, and expressing whatever sentiment they feel.
Bravely served but forgotten at home
Indigenous veterans faced challenges like the loss of reserve lands given to non-Indigenous soldiers. Difficulties accessing pensions, health benefits and recognition for their service made it hard to transition back home.
On Oct. 30, 2025, the Chief of the Defence Staff, General Jennie Carignan and Canadian Armed Forces Chief Warrant Officer Bob McCann delivered a formal apology on behalf of the Canadian Armed Forces to current and former members for systemic racism, racial discrimination and harassment.
The City of Calgary will be lowering its flags to half-mast at the Municipal complex in honour of Indigenous Veterans Day.
