Events

Canadian Armed Forces Day Celebrates the Contribution of Military Personnel

Mishall Rehman May 31, 2024

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Canadian Armed Forces Day, marked on the first Sunday of every June, will allow Canadians from coast to coast to coast to celebrate the heroic contributions of Canadian soldiers this weekend.

First Sunday in June

More than 70 countries around the world celebrate Armed Forces Day. Canadian Armed Forces Day was initiated in April 2002 after a motion of the House of Commons.

The motion read, “That, in the opinion of this House, the government should, on an annual basis, proclaim the first Sunday in June ‘Canadian Forces Day’ in recognition of the tremendous contribution by the Canadian Forces, both at home and abroad, in such areas as the defence of Canada, our NATO commitments, humanitarian assistance, disaster relief, search and rescue and peacekeeping.”

On May 31, 2002, then prime minister Jean Chrétien issued a statement noting that the first Sunday in June would be recognized as Canadian Forces Day.

Largest Armed Forces Day celebration

North Bay, ON, holds the title of hosting Canada’s largest Armed Forces Day. This 12th annual event will include an appearance of the Canadian Armed Forces Snowbirds, CF-18 Demonstration Team and the Canadian Armed Forces Skyhawks Parachute Team.

As a special treat this year, famous Canadian rock singer-songwriter, drummer, and actor Cory Marks will make a special appearance at the event.

“We can’t be any more excited to finally be able share the great news with you all. Cory Marks will be joining us to perform his song SNOWBIRDS during opening ceremonies on Jun 19, 2024, around 11 am. He’ll be backed up by the 22 Wing Band. Let us know how excited you are in the comments. Thanks for coming on board, Cory. We know how much you care for our Armed Forces,” the Armed Forces Day North Bay Facebook page reads.

According to an article in the North Bay Nugget, the celebrations will also include military and static displays from the Algonquin Regiment of Canada, 33 Service Battalion, 22 Military Police Flight, Canadian Forces Museum of Aerospace Defence and the United States Air Force.

North Bay’s event, however, will take place on June 19.

Canadian Forces Day’ recgonizes the tremendous contribution by the Canadian Forces, both at home and abroad, in such areas as the defence of Canada, our NATO commitments, humanitarian assistance, disaster relief, search and rescue and peacekeeping.” Above image: A CF-188 Hornet from the 433 Tactical Fighter Squadron escorts the CC-150 Polaris carrying the remains of the Newfoundland Unknown Soldier and the Operation DISTINCTION contingent as it enters Newfoundland airspace during Operation DISTINCTION – Repatriation of an Unknown Newfoundland Soldier in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador on May 25, 2024. Photo by: Corporal Antoine Brochu, Canadian Forces Combat Camera.

Other celebrations across Canada

This year, celebrations are planned in various cities to honour the Canadian Armed Forces heroes of their town.

According to Fresh Radio 104.5, Cornwall, ON, is also planning a “spectacular” celebration in Lamoureaux Park. The celebration will start with a game of lacrosse and will include musical performances, visits from military members, and military assets.

Other base towns and cities across Canada will host similar events.