Celebrating the inclusion of Indigenous-crafted poppies on CAF uniforms
November 13, 2025 - Defence Stories
Estimated read time – 2:00
On October 31, Defence Team members gathered at the National Defence Headquarters (Carling) to honour and recognize the first day that Indigenous-crafted poppies can be worn on Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) uniforms during Remembrance Day observances. This change to the dress regulations was approved by the National Defence Clothing and Dress Committee to recognize and honour the contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples.
Significance of Indigenous-crafted poppies
Indigenous-crafted poppies uplift the voices of currently serving Indigenous members, promote cultural pride, support community healing, and demonstrates meaningful and concrete actions by the Defence Team towards reconciliation and genuine inclusion. Indigenous poppies reflect the unique experiences and honor the sacrifices of Indigenous veterans, many of whom were historically overlooked and denied benefits upon returning from service.
Event highlights
The inspiring event began with a smudging ceremony, followed by Indigenous artisans, including the Canadian Rangers, demonstrating their rich traditions through unique handcrafted poppies made with culturally significant materials, such as beads, seal skin, porcupine quill, and caribou bone.
Participants gathered for a ceremony featuring keynote remarks from Defence Team Indigenous Co-Champion and Commander of the Canadian Army, Lieutenant-General (LGen) Michael Wright, reflections from Royal Canadian Air Force Command Chaplain Lieutenant Colonel Catherine Askew, and a powerful first-person account from Master Warrant Officer (MWO) (Retired) Floyd Powder on his CAF service and his ongoing work supporting Indigenous veterans.
MWO (Retired) Powder initiated the tradition of wearing of the first Indigenous poppy on a CAF uniform by pinning LGen Wright and Chief Warrant Officer (CWO) Robin. LGen Wright then had the honour of pinning poppies on five additional CAF members:
- Colonel George McLeod - to symbolize all serving Indigenous members of the CAF
- Sergeant (Retired) John Jewitt – to symbolize all Veterans of the CAF
- Sergeant Vivian Cho – to symbolize all members of the CAF
- CWO Frederic Lavoie and MWO Cherie Koshman – as recognition for their support and allyship in reconciliation and in elevating Indigenous voices
After the ceremony, the artisans showcased their work, offering participants the opportunity to ask questions and gain insight into the artistry behind each Indigenous poppy.
By incorporating these poppies into CAF dress, the Defence Team both honours the legacy of the poppy and embraces a more inclusive, respectful approach to remembrance. This initiative marks a significant step in reconciliation and healing for CAF members - Indigenous and non-Indigenous alike.