National Aboriginal Veterans Monument

On June 21, on the occasion of National Aboriginal Day, a national monument to the Aboriginal Veterans was unveiled in Ottawa.

The unveiling is the result of the hard work and perseverance of the National Aboriginal Veterans Association (NAVA) and Senator Nick Taylor. The work of artist Lloyd Pinay, the monument is reflective of all Aboriginal Peoples in Canada, Indians, Métis and Inuit.

Canadian Native veterans have reason to be proud of their wartime contributions. More than 7,000 Indians served in the First and Second World Wars and the Korean War, and an unknown number of Inuit, Métis and other Natives also participated. One Native veterans group estimates that 12,000 Natives served in the three wars. On each occasion, Canada's Native soldiers overcame cultural challenges and made impressive sacrifices and contributions to help the nation in its efforts to restore world peace. It was an incredible response - consistent with a remarkable tradition.

National Monument to the Aboriginal Veterans	Ernest "Smokey" Smith, VC
Then National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations, Matthew Coon Come

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