Assembly of First Nations National Chief Honours First Nations Veterans on Remembrance Day, will Participate in Ceremony at National War Memorial

OTTAWA, Nov. 10, 2015 /CNW Telbec/ - Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Perry Bellegarde today acknowledged the tremendous contributions and sacrifices of all soldiers and military personnel and called on Canadians to remember as well the many First Nations veterans who served this country and those who continue to serve.

"On behalf of the Assembly of First Nations and our Regional Chiefs, it is my honour to pay tribute on November 11, Remembrance Day, to all veterans and to express our appreciation for the contributions of the many First Nations veterans who served proudly and with distinction," said AFN National Chief Perry Bellegarde.  "This is always a significant and powerful time as we honour the courage of those who gave so much and made such a tremendous contribution in standing strong for this land, our homeland.  We must never forget all who served."

The National Chief and Mr. James Eagle, a First Nation Veteran, will participate in the Remembrance Day services at the National War Memorial in Ottawa, Ontario on November 11 at 10:30 a.m.

The AFN proudly supports First Nation veterans and are with them and their families as First Nations across the country gather in ceremony to pay their respects to all veterans, including those who are no longer with us.

National Chief Bellegarde added, "I encourage all Canadians to learn about the important contributions of First Nations veterans in shaping this country.  Let us do justice to their memory by ensuring their contributions are acknowledged, respected and recognized by the Government of Canada, First Nations and all Canadians.  We owe all our military personnel, past and present, deep and ongoing gratitude.  Let us pause to thank them for their selflessness and their service on Remembrance Day, and each and every day."

The Assembly of First Nations is the national organization representing First Nation citizens in Canada. Follow AFN on Twitter @AFN_Comms, @AFN_Updates.

SOURCE Assembly of First Nations

Alain Garon, AFN Bilingual Communications Officer, 613-241-6789, ext. 382, 613-292-0857 or [email protected]; Jenna Young Castro, AFN Communications Officer, [phone] ext 401 or [phone] or [email protected]