A Veteran of the Canadian Forces (CF) with more than 30 years active service, Lt.-Gen. Couture was instrumental in fostering a closer working relationship between the Department of National Defence (DND) and Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC), eliminating duplication of services in order to provide better and efficient services to retired as well as still serving Veterans. Lt.-Gen. Couture co-chaired the VAC/DND Steering Committee, ensuring ongoing communications and providing joint services to CF Veterans and their dependants. Lt.-Gen. Couture assisted in the creation of the DND/VAC Centre for the Support of Injured and Retired Members and their Families, which opened in 1999. He also oversaw the creation of the Operational Stress Injuries Social Support program to ensure that CF Veterans receive care immediately.