London, Ontario November 10th, 2017 – This Remembrance Day, the Association of Iroquois and Allied Indians wishes to pay its’ respects to all those who have served in the military, past and present, and to all those who paid the ultimate sacrifice so that we can enjoy the freedoms that we do today. First Nation veterans were often in the forefront alongside their fellow soldiers and many also did not return home to their families. When war broke out in Europe many of our people left their homes, their families and their land to fight. They were not asked, they were not ordered, they weren’t even among those considered for service when the call came. They fought and did their part as a soldier, a code talker, or whatever role was needed.
While we do honor those who have fought in the wars for our future we would also like to honour those who are in service today for their dedication. The feats and stories told to us by the men and women who have lived through wars have inspired all of us. A.I.A.I. Grand Chief says “On November 11, I reflect upon my own family who served in the military. One of my great grandfathers served in WW1, and another served in both WW1 and WW2. They are now a part of my heritage and I honour them and all those like them who served.”
On November 11th we stand at attention in silence in front of monuments, and pillars in recognition of the names collected on those stones. A.I.A.I. Deputy Grand Chief Gord Peters says “ To the men and women who fought to defend our lands in war of 1812 and to the world wars that followed. Yet that battle for our lands and our place on them continues To quote Einstein ‘Peace is not merely the absence of war but the presence of justice’ and that we have not found yet today” Many of our people have given their lives so it is only fitting that we give them our thanks. Lest We Forget.
