November is a month of solemn remembrance for the Defence community, providing a chance to honor the legacy of the courageous soldiers, sailors, and aviators who served before us.
Significant commemorations in 2024 will highlight the 100th anniversary of the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF), the 80th anniversary of D-Day and the Battle of Normandy, and the 10th anniversary of the end of the Canadian mission in Afghanistan, along with other key milestones.
From November 5 to 11, during Veterans’ Week, Canadians remember and honor the brave individuals who served our country in the past, while also recognizing those who serve in uniform today. The National Veterans’ Week Speakers Program helps bring soldiers, aviators, and sailors into classrooms and community halls across the country to speak to Canadians in the days leading up to Remembrance Day. If you are interested in being a speaker, please get in touch with the CFB Kingston Public Affairs Office at CFBKGNPAO-BFCKGNOAP@forces.gc.ca
On November 8, we recognize Indigenous Veterans Day. First Nations, Inuit, and Métis people in Canada have a long and proud tradition of military service. While exact statistics are difficult to determine, the rate of Indigenous participation in Canada’s military efforts over the years has been remarkable. Indigenous military personnel have taken on various roles, including serving with the Canadian Rangers, primarily active in the North and along remote coastlines. Their deep knowledge of the land helps maintain a military presence in these hard-to-reach areas, monitor coastlines, and assist in local rescue operations.
November 11 marks Remembrance Day. Canadians pause in a silent moment of remembrance for those who have served and continue to serve our country during times of war, conflict, and peace. For many, it is an occasion to participate in local ceremonies and pay tribute to those who have served. Everyone is encouraged to participate in a Remembrance Day ceremony. Several ceremonies will be held on Base and in local areas.
November also marks the final month of the local campaign at CFB Kingston to support the National Defence Workplace Charitable Campaign. We encourage you to take part in the upcoming fun activities, including the Battle of the Bands, which will take place on Saturday, November 16, at the Junior Ranks mess. This Tri-Mess event will showcase local talent and also serve a good cause by collecting donations for the National Defence Workplace Charity Campaign. Each band competing will include at least one Mess member, and a panel of judges, including the Base Commander as well as representatives from the Kingston live music community, will evaluate the bands. The evening promises to be exciting and a great time!
Another event is the ball hockey tournament; held on Thursday, November 21, at the Base Gym (KMCSC). Military and civilian employees are all encouraged to participate. Teams will consist of 8 to 16 players, including the Captain. The cost to participate is $10 dollars per member, which includes registration fees, with all profits being donated to support the National Defence Workplace Charitable Campaign.
Finally, don’t miss the touchdown event happening on November 28, the last day of the campaign at CFB Kingston.
This time of year can be mentally challenging. The Canadian Forces Member Assistance Program offers confidential, voluntary, short-term counseling to assist in resolving many of today’s stresses at home and in the workplace. It is available to Regular Force members (and their immediate family members, spouses, partners, and dependent children), the Reserve Force, and the parents and siblings of CAF Regular and Reserve Force members who are injured or die while in service. The service can be accessed by phone at 1-800-268-7708 (24 hours a day, 365 days a year), or by online chat Monday to Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
For releasing and former members of the CAF or RCMP, as well as family members and caregivers, you can find a list of supports, online resources, and mobile apps to improve well-being at this address: Mental health and wellness | Veterans Affairs Canada
