Field of Crosses Sunset Ceremony - Indigenous Veterans Day

Sunset is at 16:57.

Today's Sunset Flag Lowering Ceremony is dedicated to honouring Indigenous Veterans at The Field of Crosses. Indigenous participation in Canada's military efforts has been remarkable over the years, even though precise statistics are challenging to determine. During the First World War, many Indigenous men provided valuable skills including patience, stealth and marksmanship, which made them exceptional snipers and reconnaissance scouts. Indigenous military personnel have earned over 50 decorations for bravery, with Henry Louis Norwest, a Métis man from Alberta, standing out as one of the most renowned snipers in the Canadian Corps. His sacrifice is commemorated annually at the Field of Crosses. The stories of Indigenous military service highlight their resilience, bravery and significant contributions to Canada's military history, having served their country with distinction.

Participants and invited guests:

Each evening cadets, scouts, guides, etc. are invited and scheduled to perform the flag lowering detail. The sunset ceremonies also include choirs, buglers, pipers, flag detail, uniformed members of the community, including Calgary Fire Department, Calgary Police Services, EMS, Alberta Sheriffs and Military Members. Invited guests include civic, provincial, federal government officials, Lieutenant Governor of Alberta, Governor General of Canada, Consul Generals, uniformed members of the community, Veterans, community leaders and members of the public.

After the ceremony, members of the public are welcome to walk amongst the crosses all night long and into the morning dawn.

Susan Schalin (s.schalin@fieldofcrosses.com)

4032970555

www.fieldofcrosses.com