When people think of Veterans, many immediately picture someone who served in the first World War, Second World War or the Korean War. While many Canadians recognize these traditional Veterans, the same may not always be true for Canadian Forces (CF) Veterans – those who served Canada following the Korean War.

In fact, some former Canadian Forces members don’t even see themselves as Veterans. Veterans Affairs Canadian (V AC) wants to change this and is working to ensure Canadian Forces Veterans receive the honour and recognition they have earned and so richly deserve.

VAC considers any former member of the Canadian Forces who releases with an honourable discharge and who successfully underwent basic training to be a Veteran. This Veteran status recognizes the risk Canadian Forces members assume by wearing the uniform and pledging allegiance.

Canada’s modern-day Veterans are carrying on the traditions, values and legacy of wartime Veterans and all Canadians, especially our youth, should be aware of their accomplishments and sacrifices.

VAC continues to adapt its Canada Remembers program to help Canadians better understand and appreciate Canada’s CF community. The Department encourages all Canadians to learn about the sacrifices and achievements of Canada’s Veterans during times of war, military conflict and peace, Whenever possible, Canadians should also become involved in remembrance activities to help preserve their legacy for future generations of Canadians.