Submitted by: Dr. Alis Kennedy, O.Ont., C.D., O.M.C., MNO Veterans’ Council Senator

 

  MNO Veterans’ Council participates in the Warriors' Day Parade

 

 

 

Joe Paquette (left), MNO Veterans’ Council President, and
Shelly Claus (right), MNO Veterans’ Council Women’s
Representative, hold the Defence of Canada 1812-1815
banner at the Warriors' Day Parade.

 

 

On August 20, 2016, for the first time in 95 years, the Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) Veterans’ Council had a recognized contingent in the Warriors' Day Parade (WDP) at the Canadian National Exhibition in Toronto.

The MNO Veterans’ Council were very excited to participate in the parade, as the MNO Annual General Assembly usually takes place on the same weekend. However they ran into a slight problem, as in order to march in the parade as a contingent, a minimum of five members must be present and the MNO Veterans’ Council unfortunately only had three MNO veterans available that weekend.

Thankfully, the President of the WDP Council waived the minimum member requirement and allowed MNO Veterans’ Council citizens—Joe Paquette, President; Shelly Claus, Women’s Representative; and, Dr. Alis Kennedy, O.Ont., C.D., O.M.C., Senator and a member of the WDP Council, to march in the parade. The WDP marked the first time the MNO Veterans’ Council were ever publicly acknowledged as a bona fide contingent.

The MNO Veterans’ Council proudly marched in the Honour section of the parade while carrying the MNO 1812 banner, an Eagle staff and the National Métis flag. The Council stood out by their buckskin vest, ribbon dress and ribbon shirt. The WDP was also the first time that the MNO 1812 banner and the National Métis flag were flown in a public event involving the MNO Veterans’ Council.

The parade was very well attended and included the Honourable Elizabeth Dowdeswell, O.C., O.Ont., Lieutenant Governor of Ontario and Honorary Patron of The WDP Council as well as Vice-Admiral Mark Norman, M.A.G., C.M.M., C.D., Vice Chief of the Defence Staff as the 2016 Warrior’s Day Parade Reviewing Officer. 

Published on: September 21, 2016

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

         MNO Veteran Going to the 2016 Paralympic Games in Rio

 

MNO citizen is headed to the 2016 Paralympic Games in Rio as one of the core Team Canada physicians

Submitted by: Rebecca Menard, MNO citizen

                                                    
                                  MNO citizen Dr. Darrell Menard OMM, CD, MD, in his 2016 Paralympic
                                                                          Games uniform.

Dr. Darrell Menard is a Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) citizen and Veteran who is about to embark on a very exciting adventure. Dr. Menard is one of the core Team Canada physicians for the 2016 Paralympic Games in Rio de Janeiro. The application process to join the team was very competitive and involved a lengthy selection process against other qualified medical personnel.

At the 2016 Paralympic Games, Dr. Menard is one of four Team Canada volunteer physicians. He has been assigned the track and field team, but will likely work with other teams prior to arriving in Rio. Team physicians complete medical and medication reviews for all of their assigned athletes prior to the Games. While at the Games, they are responsible for providing sideline coverage during practices and games. They are also responsible for running a Canadian Team medical clinic at the Paralympic village.

Dr. Menard has worked at over 20 major games including the 2015 Parapan Am Games, the 2014 North American Indigenous Games, the 2013 Military World Football Cup and the 2012 Olympic Games.

Dr. Menard graduated from the University of Alberta in 1976 with an Honours Degree in Physical Education and then began a 40-year career in the Canadian Forces. In 1981, he completed a Master of Arts Degree in Exercise Physiology at the University of Alberta.  He graduated from the medical program at Queen’s University in 1988. Dr. Menard completed his flight surgeon training in 1991 and in 1992 he opened a family/sport medicine practice in Russell, Ontario. In 1994, he completed his Canadian Academy of Sport and Exercise Medicine Diploma.

Dr. Menard is currently a family physician with a specialty in sport medicine.  He retired from the Canadian Forces after 40 years of service in both the regular and reserve forces and continues to work as the Surgeon General’s Specialist Advisor in Sport Medicine. Dr. Menard also teaches Musculoskeletal Examination Skills at the University of Ottawa, Queen’s University and the Northern Ontario University programs.

Dr. Menard is a great Métis success story and role model. Good luck in Rio Dr. Menard! 

Published on: July 25, 2016

MNO Veteran Deputy Chief of Police Measures Fish

 

By: Deputy Chief of Police (Belleville) (MNO Veteran)

 

 

Police Deputy Chief Ron Gignac C.D., a MNO Veteran who enjoys the great outdoors shares his love of fishing by participating in the Belleville Fishing Derby.

Here is a photo of our successful annual cops and kids fishing derby here in Belleville.  Of course, yours truly is measuring the fish of one of our young people along with Special Constable Mark Chapelle.  We had an enormous number of kids, parents, grandparents, guardians, at our derby this year last weekend.  We had a blast fishing with the kids.  For many, it was their first fish ever caught.  We catch and release at the derby and the excitement on the young people's faces during this event was truly inspiring.  Hundreds of kids attended and much of our Service volunteers including our auxiliary, CP volunteers, special Constables, family members of our officers and staff and many more.  The MNR had a superb display set up as did our local fire service. 
Our community business sector and private donors contributed prizes, food, fishing gear, funding to purchase a host of great prizes and so much more- We are certainly blessed in Belleville to have such fine citizens, business owners, and community volunteers. 

             Métis monument unveiled at the official closing of the          commemoration of 400 years of French presence in Ontario

 

Based on the following article: http://www.newswire.ca/news-releases/official-closing-of-the-commemoration-of-400-years-of-french-presence-in-ontario-582491141.html

 (L-R) Former Minister Responsible for Francophone Affairs Madeleine Meilleur, PCMNO Chair France Picotte, MNO
Region 7 Captain of the Hunt Greg Garratt, MNO Summer Youth Cultural Program Lead Katelyn Lacroix, MNO
Summer Youth Cultural Program Lead Melissa St. Amant, MNO Georgian Bay Métis Council President David
Dusome, and Mayor of Penetanguishene Gerry Marshall.

On June 10, 2016, the Office of Francophone Affairs, the Ontario Heritage Trust and the Town of Penetanguishene hosted a special event at Rotary Champlain Wendat Park in Penetanguishene to mark the official closing of the commemoration of 400 years of French presence in Ontario.

The Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) was well represented at the event. The Provisional Council of the Métis Nation of Ontario (PCMNO) Chair France Picotte brought greetings on behalf of the MNO. MNO Summer Youth Cultural Program (SYCP) facilitators were also present at the event and set up a booth where attendees could learn more about Métis history and culture. MNO Georgian Bay Métis Council President David Dusome and MNO Region 7 Captain of the Hunt Greg Garratt were also in attendance.

An important moment at the event was when Chair Picotte and SYCP Leads Katelyn Lacroix and Melissa St. Amant helped unveil a Métis monument that depicts an Indigenous woman and a European man. The monument was sculpted by Timothy P. Schmalz. There is a plaque beneath the statue entitled “Métis: The Métis Nation”, which reads as follows:

“Prior to Canada becoming a nation, a new Aboriginal people emerged out of the relations of Native women and European men. The initial offspring of these unions were individuals of mixed ancestry who resulted in the beginning of a new Aboriginal people with a distinct identity and culture in west central North America — the Métis Nation.

These Métis people were connected through the fur trade network, extensive kinship and a collective identity. In Ontario, historic Métis settlements emerged along the rivers and watersheds of the province, surrounding the Great Lakes and throughout to the northwest of the province. One of these settlements was a vibrant community in Huronia. In fact, Métis were among the region’s earliest settlers to Penetanguishene with the Drummond Island Migration of 1828 to 1829.”

On August 1, 1615, French explorer Samuel de Champlain arrived on the shores of Georgian Bay in the region of what is now Penetanguishene.  Rotary Champlain Wendat Park commemorates Champlain's visit to the region. The park's Legacy Walkway features six statues portraying individuals and peoples significant to the history of Ontario and Canada. Three provincial plaques located at the park share the story of Champlain's sojourn in Ontario in 1615, told in English, French, Anishinabe, Montagnais-Innu, Mohawk and Wendat. A companion provincial plaque was unveiled at Champlain's point of departure from France, in Honfleur, last October.

"The 400th Commemoration was a unique opportunity to recognize the significant contributions of our founding peoples to making Ontario the diverse and dynamic province of today,” said Madeleine Meilleur, former Minister Responsible for Francophone Affairs. “Ontario is pleased to offer these plaques to the Town and residents of Penetanguishene in the revitalized Rotary Champlain Wendat Park. This is an important legacy of the 400th and a tribute to the key role played by First Nations, Métis and Francophones in our province's development."

Published on: June 17, 2016

 

Presentation was done by General (Retired) Walter Natynczyk, CMMN, MSC, CD,  Deputy Minister Veterans Affairs Canada

June 16, 2016.

 

General (Retired) Walter Natynczyk CMM, MSC, CD, and MNO Veteran Don Kennedy CD.

 

 

I had the honour of receiving an invitation to accompany one of our MNO Veteran’s to his presentation of the Minister of Veterans Affairs Commendation. What a great honour indeed.

Don is a Major (Retired) Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) Reserves soldier with over 43 years of service. A dedicated community volunteer and a contributor to many local and national organizations including the Métis Nation of Ontario Veterans’ Council and the MNO Clear Waters Métis Council, he is a strong advocate for Aboriginal people and Veterans.

Mr. Kennedy was instrumental in organizing the military component for the opening of the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum.

In 2012, he was Registration Committee Chair of the Hamilton Light Infantry 150^th Anniversary, a 3-day event which included the “Trooping of the Colour” for HRH, The Prince Edward, Earl of Wessex. Mr. Kennedy was one of the Korean Veterans Association (KVA) Unit 26 Republic of South Korea (ROK) Memorial Project Committee members which raised funds to erect the RCN Ships in Korea Monument in Burlington, ON. He was involved as a committee member in numerous Veterans Affairs Canada events to celebrate “The Year of the Korean War Veteran” and “The Year of Korea” in 2013. He was inducted as an Honourary Korean War Veteran by the KVA for his advocacy.

He received The 31 Canadian Brigade Group Commander’s Commendation in 2006, the Royal Hamilton Light Infantry Commanding Officer’s Commendation in 2007, and the Commanding Officer’s Commendation for 2008.

In 2012, Don was awarded the Queen’s Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal.

 

 Congratulations to MNO Veteran Don Kennedy C.D.

 

 

 

CFB Borden Base Commander Colonel Doyon J.B.C., C.D.and Lt. Col. M. Richardson from the Lincoln and Welland Regiment Commanding Officer for 3CRPG.

 

On May 26^th, 2016, CFB Borden hosted the Aboriginal Veterans’ Day. As part of the day’s activities, the MNOVC presented the Veterans’ book to the Base Commander Colonel Doyon J.B.C., C.D., and to and Lt. Col. M. Richardson from the Lincoln and Welland Regiment, Commanding Officer for 3CRPG.

Many thanks for the organizing and hosting of this great event honouring our Aboriginal Veterans.

 

 

 

(L-R) MNO Veterans’ Council President Joseph Paquette, MNO veteran Alexander Boucher and MNO Veterans’ Council Secretary Greg Garratt.

On May 26, 2016, at the Canadian Forces Base Borden, the day was full of surprises for 103-year-old Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) certified veteran Alexander (Alex) Boucher. Accompanied by his daughter Carol Boucher and son Eugene Boucher, Alex attended the Aboriginal Veterans’ Day event. The surprise of the day came when Alex was presented with his first leather vest. This presentation was arranged by MNO Veterans’ Council Secretary Greg Garrett. Alex was so thrilled and wore the leather vest with great pride.  Leather is an important commodity for Métis culture. Early Métis clothing was frequently made from leather and decorated with beads or quills (Métis Legacy II, 2006). Hunting and the traditional art of hide tanning continue to be important skills for the Métis.

Although it rained, it did not put a damper on the day’s activities. The MNO Veterans’ Council was well represented along with the MNO Summer Youth Cultural Program youth who jigged and danced for guests.

 

 

MNO SYCP participate at the Base Borden                                        Aboriginal Awareness Day event

 

 

(L-R) SYCP facilitator Cassidy Eames, SYCP Facilitator
Brittany St. Amant, MNO Veterans’ Council President
Joseph Paquette, Region 7 Captain of the Hunt and MNO
Veterans’ Council Secretary Greg Garratt, PCMNO
Postsecondary Representative Katelyn LaCroix, and
SYCP Facilitator Karly Chapman.

On May 26, 2016, at the Borden Military Base, Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) Summer Youth Cultural Program (SYCP) facilitators participated the Base‘s Aboriginal Awareness Day event. SYCP facilitators performed Métis jigging and taught some of their favourite dances to the attendees. They also provided children's art programming such as dot art and finger-weaving. Despite the rain, everyone had a great time they and were very grateful for the opportunity to meet with MNO veterans including MNO Veterans’ Council President Joseph Paquette and Secretary Greg Garratt.

Published on: June 15, 2016    

         MNO veteran is recognized for his service

 

 Submitted by: Joseph Paquette, President of the MNO Veterans’ Council

 

C.D displays the Korean book and proudly wears the Korean "Ambassador For Peace Medal".

Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) veteran Sergeant John (Jack) Edward Cadeau C.D. grew up in Port Severn, Ontario. When the Korean War broke out, he felt the need to serve his country and in April 1951, at the age of 17, he joined the army. Sergeant Cadeau spent 25 years in the service and retired in June 1975. Sergeant Cadeau was recently awarded two prestigious awards in recognition of his military service.

The first award was presented to on February 14, 2016, when Sergeant Cadeau received the Louis Riel medal and certificate, which formally recognizes him as an MNO veteran. Sergeant Cadeau is also one of two MNO-verified Korean war veterans.

The second award was presented on May 29, 2016, when MNO Veterans’ Council President Joseph Paquette, MNO Chair Sharon McBride—who is Sergeant Cadeau’s daughter—and her family, paid a surprise trip to Georgetown for the Ambassador for Peace Medal Presentation. Also present at the ceremony were the following PCMNO members: Chair France Picotte, Region 7 Councillor Pauline Richardson, Senator Verna Porter-Brunelle, Youth Representative Mitch Case and Post-Secondary Representative Katelyn Lacroix.

Sergeant Cadeau was awarded the Korean Ambassador for Peace Medal, which was presented by HooJung Jones Kennedy, Advisor to the Republic of Korea President Park Geun Hye, National Unification Advisory Council, and Korea Veterans Association of Canada Unit 26 Project Coordinator. This commemorative medal is an expression of appreciation from the Korean government to Canadian service men and women who served in the Korean War. 

Published on: June 6, 2016

 

 

 

 

                    MNO Korean Veteran Receives the Louis Riel Certificate

 

By: Joseph Paquette

 

 

 

On February 14, 2016, MNO Veteran John (Jack) Cadeau C.D., a Korean veteran, was presented the Louis Riel Certificate. In a surprise visit to Georgetown by MNO Veterans’ Council President Joseph Paquette and MNO Chair Sharon McBride and her family, the planned event was a great success. Jack was very surprised indeed.

Jack is ‘one’ of the two MNO verified Korean Veterans.

 

                                      Aboriginal Veterans Event

 

 

CFB Borden

May 26 2016

10:00 hrs to 15:00 hrs

 

Come and support the Métis and First Nations Veterans.

 

 This is another opportunity to showcase our Métis Veterans. Come and join us !

Each registered Veterans will get a small honourarium

 

Come and visit the MNOVC booth

But you must be registered

 

Register before May 18, 2016 with Greg Garratt [email protected]

 

              Welland Museum

 Welland Museum pays homage to Métis involvement in the Great Wars

 

 

MNO Niagara Region Métis Council President Derrick Pont (left) and MNO Veterans’ Council President Joe Paquette (far right) presents the MNO Veterans’ Council book to Welland Museum curator Penny Morningstar (middle).

 

With excerpts from: http://www.niagarathisweek.com/news-story/6529058-welland-museum-looks-back-at-the-great-wars/

 

On May 6, 2016, the Welland Museum launched the Niagara and the Great Wars exhibit, which looks back at the impact of both world wars on the community and pays homage to Métis and First Nations involvement in both of the 20th century’s great wars.

Prior to the launch, Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) Veterans’ Council President Joe Paquette and MNO Niagara Region Métis Council (NRMC) President Derrick Pont were invited to participate in the creation of this exhibit, providing the museum with their expertise on Métis involvement in the Great Wars.

The exhibit also features a plethora of artifacts, uniforms and medals from a local private collection, together with the MNO Veterans’ Council, MNO NRMC, First Nations - Brantford, Royal Canadian Legion Br. 4, Welland and Royal Canadian Legion Branch 613, Fonthill.

The Ontario Canadian World War One Commemoration Foundation-funded exhibit—with contributions from the Welland and Pelham Legions, the MNO NRMC, First Nations Brantford and the Ward Family Collection—was the brainchild of Cameron Ward, who is named as the exhibit's guest curator.

This exhibit represents the ways in which the Welland community came together during the war years, through personal items from veterans who served and the ways in which we remember those who lost their lives.

Welland Museum Acting Executive Director Penny Morningstar notes the exhibit is particularly special in that it will be presented not only in English and French but also in the Métis language of Michif and in Mohawk.

“For us at the museum it was really important,” said Morningstar, explaining it is a unique chance to share those languages as they struggle against fading away. “People can come in and see the written word,” she said.

Seen as an important pre-cursor to the Vimy Ridge Commemorations in Ottawa in 2017, the MNO Veterans’ Council is very appreciative for this incredible opportunity, which was initiated by President Pont.

The MNO Veterans’ Council encourages as many people as possible to attend the exhibit and support this fantastic initiative. The museum is open Tuesday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and on Thursdays from 1- a.m. to 8 p.m. For more information about this exhibit, please visit the Welland Museum.

Also visit the Photos tab to the left.

MNO Veterans’ Council part of Great Wars Exhibit

By: Joseph Paquette

 

On March 30^th, a meeting was held at the Welland museum. An invitation was given to the MNO Veterans’ Council to participate in the “Niagara and the Great Wars” exhibit. The meeting, arranged by Derrick Pont and Penny Morningstar, went very well and was followed by a presentation of the Veterans’ book to the Welland Museum.

The “Great Wars” exhibit will run from May 6^th (launch) to December 2016. This is seen as a great opportunity to showcase some of our WWI and WWII veterans. The MNO Veterans’ Council encourages as many MNO citizens as possible to attend the exhibit and support this fantastic initiative.

Seen as an important step to the Vimy Ridge Commemorations in Ottawa 2017, the MNO Veterans’ Council is very appreciative of this incredible opportunity which was initiated by Derrick.

 

Stay tuned to find out when the Veterans Book signing by our 103 year old Veteran will take place at the Welland Museum 

Métis soldier remembers his post at Vimy Ridge

 

 

Master Corporals T. Majovsky (right), MNO
Veteran, and B. Brian at Vimy Ridge in 1985.

In 1985, Tim Majovsky, a Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) citizen and MNO Veteran, proudly stood on guard at Vimy Ridge in France. In this picture, Majovsky was posted from the Canadian Airborne Regiment to the 4th Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group (4CMBG). Majovsky was selected as Sentries in 1985 for the Remembrance Day ceremony at Vimy Ridge. Thinking back on this day, Majovsky says it was “an honour that I will never forget...huah!”

April 9, 2017 will mark the 100th year commemoration of the battle of Vimy Ridge. During the First World War, more than 15,000 Canadians fought at Vimy Ridge and claimed victory. However, this victory came at a high cost:  3,598 Canadians were killed and another 7,000 wounded (Statistics taken from the Canada War Museum.) This important battle was a defining moment for Canada.  We Shall Remember Them.

The MNO Veterans’ Council plan to commemorate the Battle of Vimy Ridge in Ottawa next year. For more information, please visit the MNO Veterans’ Council Vimy Ridge Project page.

Published on: May 3, 2016

                   Niagara and the Great Wars Exhibit   

Come and visit the MNO Veterans exhibit at the Welland Museum

Welland Museum

140 King Street

Welland Ontario L3B 3J3

Help support our Metis Veterans

 

 

                                        MNOVC Term End Report

 

 

February 15, 2016.

 

MNOVC Term End Report

2012 to 2016

 

2012

With the introduction of the MNOVC website in 2011, this electronic vehicle has proven to be an effective way to providing the Veteran Community with an information source and communication network.

Meeting of our mandate of representing and promoting MNO Veterans was foremost in our planning and was fully endorsed by the council.

The ratified MNO Veterans’ charter was implemented along with the MNOVC community code/bylaws. This was crucial as it addressed the outstanding definition of the term “veteran” and how it applied to MNO Veterans. The first Métis Veterans’ Wreath was introduced in November 2011 and will be placed again this year. Our very first MNOVC meeting was held in Oshawa in July.

The Veteran registration process was placed into full swing. Although met with some initial resistance, this has proven to be very effective in the Veteran verification process and protecting our Veterans. Approximately 50% of the old list chose to not register. This unfortunately diminished our enrollment to about 20.

The 2012 elections went well with the acclamation of a president, chair, Treasurer and Sgt-At Arms. The positions of Senator, Women’s Representative and Secretary were not filled at the time.  Prior to the 2012 AGA, Veteran George Kelly was appointed to the position of Senator for the Veterans in July.

MNOVC first business cards were generated for the council which were utilized to interface with our clients and proponents. The MNOVC introduced the first Louis Riel certificate. This Certificate compliments the Louis Riel medal and is a Métis document for the future. It is fully traceable through the MNOVC database and The Métis Nation of Ontario registry system. We are encouraging all our Veterans to send in their documentation to the MNOVC for verification. On an ongoing basis, more will be issued as time goes by which will aid us in identifying and registering other Métis Veterans in their community.

The MNOVC had representation during the unveiling of the 1812 banner.   This took place at the Fort York Armories in Toronto on May 22, 2012. In attendance were His Royal Highness Prince Charles and the Duchess of York, Prime Minister Harper, Governor General Johnston and many other dignitaries, civilian and military. This was a great event and again helped put the Métis in historical perspective as having contributed in the war of 1812 and to the formation of Canada, this great country. Three of our Métis Veterans attended and proudly wore the Métis sash.

In the fall, the MNOVC again had representation along with MNO President Gary Lipinski at Rideau Hall in Ottawa during the 1812 banner presentation by the Governor General to the Métis Nation of Ontario.

Throughout Ontario, MNO Veterans participated in Remembrance Day Ceremonies.

MNOVC delegates attended the Change-of-Command ceremonies held at CFB Borden and presented the new C.O. with a sash.

The 2012 AGA held in S.S. Marie was the first AGA for the new council. At the 2012 AGA, the MNOVC Veterans were again, front and center. The Veterans were part of the colour party that carried the Nation’s flags. Formally dressed with medals, it was nice to see our Veterans stand proud of who they are, not only as Métis, but also as Veterans. We had about sixteen Veterans attend last year’s AGA. We would like to thank all those that attended and contributed to its great success.

Several Veterans were awarded the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee medal at the MNO AGA and by the old NAVA organization.

The first proposal to council regarding a Veterans book was communicated on July 31, 2012. Some reluctance to the size of the project was encountered but, all agree to pursue the venture.

Our hearts were saddened by the passing of Veteran Earl Ralph Scofield (Boots) from the MNO Windsor Essex Métis Council. His passing occurred just before Remembrance Day. MNOVC provided a wreath.

We shall remember them.

 
 2013

Our hearts were further saddened by the passing of Veterans’ Council Senator George Kelly in early March 2013 in Florida. He was from the MNO Ottawa Métis Council and had been with us for less than a year. The MNOVC had representation at the funeral service in Ottawa.

We shall remember them.

The council appointed Dr. Alis Kennedy as their new senator.

The MNO AGA 2013 took place in Ottawa. Alex Boucher, then 100 years and 8 Months old MNO Veteran attended with his daughter. This was special since he is the oldest of all the MNO Veterans. A special sash stating, “100 Year Old Veteran” was secured and presented to Alexander Boucher at the MNOVC AGM.  His Louis Riel medal and certificate was presented to him at the assembly. A tour of the War museum, National Cenotaph and the Aboriginal monument was organized by the MNO and Jane Brennan (MNO Registrar) acted as the official tour guide. The Veterans’ tour was complimented by Métis youths.

A new batch of Louis Riel medal had to be ordered to present to new verified veterans. Along with the medals, a small roll of medal ribbon was purchased for the mounting of the medals.

The MNOVC was successful in securing from the MNO a beautiful banner which is proudly displayed at many MNOVC events. We thank the MNO staff for designing the banner and helping to promote our veterans.

More MNO Veterans started submitting articles for the Voyageur magazine. We encourage the Veteran Community to participate in the promotion of our Veterans.

In the spring of this year, the MNOVC launched the Veterans’ book project. The monumental task was met with great responses from the veterans’ community and MNO citizens alike. A sub-committee was established with the responsibility of gathering all the bios, stories and anecdotes. This process is ongoing.

The MNOVC was successful in securing permission from the Royal Canadian Legion in the use of their registered logo on the MNOVC website. This logo can be found complimenting each Métis Veteran on the list of our comrades that have passed away. We shall remember them.

This is a great honour.

The MNO Veterans’ Council put out its first draft of our Standard Operating Procedures. This only affects how the council proceeds with regards to the issuing of medals, certificates, flags, protocols, and the everyday administering of council business. The SOP’s also include procedures for appointments and record keeping.

We had our first display booth at the Oshawa event. Unfortunately, it was before we acquired the MNOVC banner from the MNO.

2014

The MNOVC was further saddened with the passing of Veteran Peter Grisdale from Moon River Métis Council. The MNOVC provided a wreath and had representation at the Celebration of life held in Woods Bay.

We shall remember them.

The council continued to receive the stories, bios and anecdotes for the Veterans’ book. This will continue into the first part of the 2015 year.

A “new” Louis Riel certificate was generated by MNO staff along with the layout for the “new” MNOVC business cards. The new certificate replaces the old certificate and continues to provide complete traceability. It was well received by the veteran’s community.

In conjunction with the Communications Branch of the MNO, an appreciation certificate was created so that the MNOVC could acknowledge individuals and organizations for their contributions to the promotion and support of the MNO Veterans. 

A meeting with the Royal Canadian Legion Dominion Command was held in Ottawa in April. The MNOVC representatives presented the RCL with an appreciation certificate and Métis sash in recognition for their involvement and help.  

A meeting was held with MNO staff in Ottawa concerning the Veterans’ book content and layout. Samples from Nancy Hamer-Strahl were provided.

Throughout the year, Veterans from around the province continue to send articles to the MNOVC which were published in the Voyageur. Many thanks go out to all that contributed. Thanks to all those that were able to attend the Remembrance Day Ceremonies around the province.

Once gain the council has had to order more Louis Riel medals. This is a good sign which indicates that the enrollment is increasing. We had to also secure medal ribbon for the mountings. The MNOVC was successful in securing private funding for these purchases of medals and ribbon. To date, we assemble our own swing mount medals which are very time consuming.

The council appointed Lisa Tessier as the Women’s Representative for the council. We still have one vacant position of Sergeant-at-Arms, as the original position became vacant by the previous incumbent transferring to the position of the MNOVC Secretary. Hopefully it will be filled soon.

 

2015

Much work went into the final submission to the MNO regarding the veterans’ book.

The council appointed Rob Baskey as the council Sgt-At-Arms and for the first time, all positions on Council are filled.

In the spring, the council launched the Vimy Ridge Pilgrimage project with the intent to have Veterans and Youth go to Vimy Ridge in 2017. Sub-committees were set up to tackle fund raising, logistics, foreign Affairs and procurement. Advertising in the Voyageur, MNO and MNOVC websites, gatherings was implemented. A go Fund Me page was set up to help raise funds. The advertising was circulated by several organizations such as the NWMO.

The MNOVC was successful in securing about $7000.00 for the publishing of the Veterans’ book (A first in the province of Ontario). The veterans’ book was launched with great success at the MNO AGA 2015 held in Midland. 100 copies were printed for the AGA and were sold out by supper time on Saturday. Copies were sent to Library and Archives Canada in Ottawa. Copies of the book with an appreciation certificate were presented to NWMO, Hydro One, OPG and Techno-Metal Post for their contributions.

The MNOVC had their first booth at the AGA held in Midland. The auction went well and helped raise funds not only for the council but also Vimy Ridge Project. We even had a couple of pipers come in and play for the booth. That raised a few eyebrows and increased sales.

The MNOVC was successful in establishing a good relationship with the Belleville Police Service who was involved in the Louis Riel medal and certificate presentations at the Trenton Museum.

The MNOVC held its first Youth/Veteran Knowledge/History Exchange in Midland. It was a great success.

During the summer, the MNOVC had representation in the Pan Am Relay and the 400^th Anniversary of Champlain.

The UNDOF monument located in CFB Kingston was a tribute to a close friend and was originally designed and built by Roger Ladouceur C.D., a proud Métis Veteran who is registered with the MNOVC.

 

2016

Due to not meeting the number criteria from the Tours company, the MNOVC had to change the location from Vimy Ridge, France, to Vimy Commemorations in Ottawa, our nation’s capital. Plans are in progress to secure transportation, accommodations and such in order to secure our place in the Commemorations. The fund-raising is ongoing and will be utilized to make the Ottawa Commemorations a great event.

Plans are currently being devised to honour our 103 year old Veteran, Alexander Boucher.

CONCLUSION:

Every year since 2012, the MNOVC has had representation at Louis Riel Day in Toronto and other locations, Remembrance Day, social events, and Métis gatherings throughout the province, not to mention every MNO AGA by providing a colour party. During the pass four years, several Veterans have been awarded Medals and Awards such as the Order of Ontario and the National Order of the Legion of Honour, Knight Degree. This was quite the achievement. Raising the bar has not been an easy task. The MNOVC has taken every opportunity within our grasp to promote, advocate and showcase our Veterans that served this great country Canada and thanks all those, including Veterans that help us service YOU……our Veterans.

The nominal roll started in 2012 with 22 verified Veterans and now sits at 73 verified Veterans for 2016, including those that have passed since 2012 (WE SHALL REMEMBER THEM) . This is an increase of over 230% since 2012.

I would like to thank the MNO Veterans’ Council for believing in making a positive difference, working together through many challenges and raising the bar.

It sure has been an HONOUR. An exciting four years…indeed.

Thank you All for your service.

Lest We Forget

Joseph Paquette, MNOVC President

         MNO Veterans' Council President attends military service

The Moss Park Armory in Toronto.

 

 

It was with great sorrow that Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) Veterans’ Council President Joe Paquette attended the military service conducted for his friend and regimental Sgt. Maj. Scott “Paddy” Paterson, CD, held on February 20 at the Moss Park Armory in Toronto.

 

Paterson served in the Queen’s Own Rifles of Canada, an infantry regiment of the Canadian Forces Reserve and the only militia unit in Canada with a parachute tasking, and Paquette served in the Queen’s Own regular forces, 1^st Battalion. The two had known each other since the days when Paterson was still a corporal.

 

During the service, Paquette was able to march with the Queen’s Own Rifles’ Parent Association. As the only Métis present, Paquette’s sash gave rise to many questions and much interest from other attendees. It gave him an excellent opportunity to inform people of the Métis who have served and who currently serve in the Canadian Armed Forces in the defense of Canada.

 

           Mom and son team receive Certificates of Appreciation

 

From left: Linda Plummer, MNO Veterans’ Council President Joseph
Paquette, and MNO Veterans’ Council Treasurer Chris Plummer.

Submitted by Joseph Paquette, President of the MNO Veterans’ Council

During the 2015 Annual General Assembly (AGA), the Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) Veterans’ Council set up their very first booth and silent auction in an effort to raise funds for the Vimy Project and for the veterans’ community.

Linda Plummer and her son, MNO citizen Liam Plummer, ran the MNO Veterans’ Council booth during the AGA. The booth was a great responsibility that required many hours of setting up, overseeing, recording sales and tearing down once the AGA ended. Linda and Liam’s diligence and patience contributed to the success of the booth and silent auction.

Following the AGA, the MNO Veterans’ Council presented Linda and Liam with Certificates of Appreciation for their support and a job well done. Chris Plummer, Liam’s father, accepted the certificate on his behalf as he was unable to attend.
Many thanks to the Plummer family for their help!

Published on: March 4, 2016

    Loyalist College presented with copy of MNO Veterans’ book

 

 

 

MNO Veterans’ Council Chair Guy Mandeville (left) presents the
Veterans’ book to Paul Latchford (right), Manager of the Aboriginal
Resource Centre at Loyalist College.

Submitted by Guy Mandeville, Chair of the MNO Veterans’ Council

Loyalist College became the first post-secondary institution to be presented with a copy of Fighting for Canada Before There Was A Canada, the book produced by the Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) Veterans’ Council.

On January 13, MNO Veterans’ Council Chair Guy Mandeville visited the Aboriginal Resource Centre at Loyalist College and presented a copy of the book to Paul Latchford, the Manager of the Aboriginal Resource Centre.

“They are doing excellent work,” Mandeville stated in an article published in Loyalist College’s newsletter. “Even non-Aboriginal students come in and use the facilities, and the idea is to encourage all students to educate themselves about Aboriginal history.”

Latchford congratulated the MNO Veterans’ Council on its efforts to share stories from Métis veterans.

“All of this information is accessible, but this group has taken the initiative to bring it together. This book is a wonderful resource for Loyalist faculty, staff and students,” he said.

Fighting For Canada Before There Was A Canada is a compilation of stories contributed by Métis veterans, their families or friends, detailing the veterans’ experiences in combat and non-combat roles.

Published on: February 26, 2016

 The MNOVC has had to re-direct plans for the 2107 Vimy ridge pilgrimage.

 

The MNOVC has had to re-direct plans for the 2107 Vimy ridge pilgrimage.

 The current political circumstance France and Belgium in part have deterred many people from applying for this event, which has prevented the MNOVC from being able to have the minimum required number of attendee’s for the tour guide organizer as stipulated by their contract. Neither can the council undertake the financial payment schedule commitment stipulated in the contract due to insufficient funds being raise for this event to date. 

Therefore, the council is as determined as ever to mark this historic occasion and has decided to re-direct their efforts to have youths and veterans attend a similar remembrance service in Ottawa to mark this important event for the same date.

All donations to date and future fund raising will be to meet this goal. We hope with this new direction more interested parties will come forth and allow for even greater numbers to attend.

This opportunity for the youth to learn what was fought and paid for with their ancestors blood is an extremely important piece of history that must be passed along.

The event in our Nation’s capital could be up to a 4 or 5 day event taking in as much of the history and participating and attending as many of the events that will be occurring at that time.

If you would like to attend and participate in this memorable event, please email [email protected] to get your pre- registration form.

For those that have already registered for Vimy, the council will keep your registration on file and apply it to the Ottawa trip.

 If you would like to volunteer on any of the committee’s of this event please email mailto:[email protected] with your contact information. Name, address, phone and email address.

 

All gave some, some gave All.

Greg Garratt, MNOVC secretary

Joseph Paquette, MNOVC president

 

                  MNO Veterans' Council Chair receives Logistics Branch Postal Coin

 

MNO Veterans’ Council Chair Guy Mandeville receiving the Canadian
Forces Logistics Branch Postal Coin. From left: Canadian Forces
Postal Unit Commanding Office Major Humphries, MNO Veterans’
Council Chair Guy Mandeville, CD, and Unit Sergeant Major Master
Warrant Officer Stack.

Submitted by Guy Mandeville, MNO Veterans’ Council Chair

On December 11, Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) Veterans’ Council Chair Guy Mandeville, CD, received the Canadian Forces Logistics Branch Postal Coin for his continuous assistance and participation within the Canadian Forces Postal Service.

Since his retirement, Mandeville continued to be a knowledgeable source of postal history for new clerks and officers who have just joined the Postal Service. Mandeville remains informed on the history of the postal trade and hosts presentations on the subject.

Mandeville is currently assistant curator of the historical display kept within the Canadian Forces Postal Unit at Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Trenton.

In 2012, he was instrumental in assisting the Postal Service to trace their postal history in the War of 1812. The Postal Service became the only non-fighting unit to receive the War of 1812 banner, a banner presented to units of the Canadian Forces tracing military lineage to that point in history.

Mandeville continues to be a welcomed member of the postal family and is often invited to make guest presentations during apprentice and officer courses on military postal history.

Published on: January 27, 2016