Honor Roll

The pages that follow serve to pay tribute to the Aboriginal men and women who left their homes and families to serve their respective countries in times of war.

Many, during the period between WWI and the Korean War enlisted just to earn money to support their families and communities. Others; having survived the horrors of the Residential Schools, enlisted because they had no where else to go. Those with Indian status had to give it up along with any associated benefits, in order to be recognized as Canadian citizens (enfranchised) before becoming eligible for enlistment. This was also called becoming an "Employee of the Commonwealth". Aboriginal women made great contributions in the Military as well; serving as nurses and in other non-combatant roles.

Little did the Native Soldiers realize what waited for them when they came home from the foreign battlefields they bravely served on. Many were not welcome back on their reserves, having "sold their status" in order to serve. Of those who did return to reserve life; many could not fit back in, feeling alienated. Aboriginal Veterans did not receive assistance under the War Veterans Allowance Act. As of 1932, Aboriginal Veterans on reserves in need of help were to be treated like other Aboriginals on reservations rather than as Veterans. Membership in the Legions and VFW was denied, and the Native Veteran was left to deal with the nightmares of war that followed him with absolutely no support from the country he served.

Many died alone, impoverished and neglected by their friends and family. While some died in action, many died from the results of the psycholocigal wounds incurred during battle.

Aboriginal Soldiers have been providing Homeland Security since before the first European contact, and continue to do so today.