For over 28 years, I’ve had the honour of wearing the uniform, witnessing first-hand the evolving relationship between Indigenous communities and the military. When I first joined, the scars from the Oka Crisis were fresh, and trust between Indigenous peoples and the military was fragile at best. I was posted to the Royal 22e Régiment in Quebec City, which represented some of the hardest moments of my life—not due to the work, but because of the attitudes and resistance I encountered among some of my comrades. Yet, the path we’ve walked since then has led to changes that echo the resilience of those who served before us and those still serving today.
One significant personal marker of this change has been the acceptance of my long braids—an expression of my Indigenous heritage. Military regulations now permit long hair for Indigenous men, but early on, I faced resistance from both peers and superiors who were unaccustomed to seeing this tradition honoured in uniform. Yet today, our diverse identities are increasingly respected, fostering a stronger sense of belonging and pride within the ranks.
I have been serving as a warrant officer with the Royal Winnipeg Rifles since 2021, where today, Indigenous identity and traditions are embraced. Our unit is home to an Indigenous drum group called The Warriors, a gathering of Indigenous soldiers who support each other and serve our community. This group isn’t just symbolic; it’s an active and accepted part of our unit culture, reflecting the unique contributions Indigenous members bring to the military.
“For Indigenous veterans, service is not just a duty; it is a sacred calling rooted in protecting both our people and our lands.”
Robert-Falcon Ouellette
— Professor, Faculty of Education and Canadian Armed Forces Veteran.
Our unit also remembers and honours Rifleman Nolan Caribou, an Indigenous soldier who tragically died by suicide in 2018 after experiencing harassment. His loss left a deep impact on our unit, sparking reflection on how we can better support soldiers—especially Indigenous soldiers—and foster a culture that values each member’s unique heritage and challenges. As The Warriors drum together, we remember him and strive to ensure future soldiers are supported in ways he may not have been.
National Indigenous Veterans Day is a day to remember Indigenous soldiers who have served in every major conflict, often facing discrimination yet remaining deeply committed to defending their communities and this land. It’s a reminder of the resilience embedded in our history, a resilience that continues as we honour those who have come before us and those who serve today. For Indigenous veterans, service is not just a duty; it is a sacred calling rooted in protecting both our people and our lands.
