For over two decades, Harvey Linnen has been a steadfast advocate for Veterans in Saskatchewan through his work with the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) of Regina. His leadership and vision have played a pivotal role in preserving and promoting the legacy of Canada’s military service members.
Since 2014, Harvey has served as Vice President of RUSI Regina. At a time when the organization faced dissolution, he was one of only two individuals who stepped forward to revitalize it. Under his guidance, the Institute redefined its mission to focus on “Honouring the Canadian Armed Forces and its members, past and present”. Harvey contributed to the rewriting of the constitution and bylaws but, more significantly, he helped shape and implement projects that brought this renewed mission to life.
One of his most impactful initiatives has been the creation of commemorative banners honoring Saskatchewan-born recipients of the Victoria Cross. Harvey played a key role in the research, design and unveiling of these banners, which celebrate the lives and achievements of these extraordinary individuals. To date, nine banners have been produced and are displayed at significant locations and during events such as Veterans’ Week.
Harvey also helped spearhead the Commemorative Pedestal Project—an ambitious effort to enhance the Regina Cenotaph for the first time in over 90 years. Recognizing the need to preserve the stories of Canada’s military history as wartime Veterans pass on, the project installed 29 interpretive pedestals around the Cenotaph since 2020. Each pedestal highlights a key theme—such as Vimy Ridge, D-Day, Dieppe and Armistice Day—and collectively they represent a $100,000 investment in public remembrance. Harvey was instrumental in fundraising for the project and in establishing a partnership with the University of Regina. Through this partnership, history students contribute research and content for QR codes on the pedestals, guided and mentored by Harvey, who draws on his journalism background to help them craft compelling narratives.
In addition to his commemorative work, Harvey led the redesign of RUSI Regina’s website, transforming it into a professional platform that effectively showcases the Institute’s mission and projects. His efforts have helped evolve RUSI from a primarily social organization into a respected institution dedicated to honouring Canada’s military heritage.