2022 National Veterans’ Week Speakers Program

October 18, 2022 - Defence Stories

When the leaves start to change and students return to class, we know that in just a few short weeks, we will be honoring the valour, duty, and tremendous sacrifices of those who came before us. Preparations are well under way for this year’s Veterans’ Week activities (November 5 to 11), and the participation of Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members of all ranks and levels is essential.

As members of the CAF, we have a particular responsibility to remind Canadians of the importance of Remembrance Day, and of recognizing the contributions of Canadian veterans, past and present.

The National Veterans’ Week Speakers Program (NVWSP) provides us the opportunity to acknowledge our proud legacy and highlight the diverse work we do, as well as the role we have in our local communities and around the world.

Over the years, many of you have participated in the program and, thanks to your contributions, we have had the chance to connect with hundreds of thousands of Canadians each year, either virtually or in person, sharing our message of Remembrance and building relationships with learning institutions and community organizations across Canada.

While Veterans’ Week activities, like many others over the past few years, have been impacted by the pandemic, that didn’t stop us from being present in our communities, of telling our story, and of honouring our past, even if it is from a distance.

Again this year, the NVWSP will offer virtual alternatives, such as pre-recorded videos, panel discussions and virtual presentations, along with in-person presentations, where public health guidelines permit.

For CAF members who have shared their story through the program in previous years, I thank you for your participation and encourage you to work with your chain of command and local representatives and get involved again this year. For those who have not yet had the opportunity, you are encouraged to take part in this important annual endeavour.

A CDS Tasking Order (accessible only on the National Defence network), CANFORGEN (accessible only on the National Defence network) and Public Affairs Guidance are now available online.

General Wayne Eyre

Chief of the Defence Staff