The Native Veterans
Association of Northwestern Ontario was founded by the late Charles "Willy"
John. Willy was an Ojibway of the Red Rock Band located at Lake Helen Reserve near
Nipigon, Ontario. He was a veteran of the Second World War. His dream of forming an
organization of Native veterans became a reality and a founding meeting took place
on November 11, 1988. Native veterans and families came across Northwestern Ontario and
participated in a Remembrance Day service on Mount McKay in Thunder Bay.
Mount McKay - Mt. McKay Memorial Cross dedicated to Indian Soldiers of World War I. The
cross itself was wooden.
Photo Credit:
Thunder Bay Historical Museum Society
972.2.5
Mount McKay is located on the Fort William First Nation Reserve. The significance of the
gathering and ceremony on Mount McKay is historical. It is where a large wooden cross was
once erected in honour of Indian soldiers who fought and died in World War One. It was
first erected in 1919. It has since been replaced by a large white concrete cross. The
cross on the mountain is a cenotaph that memorializes the contribution by Indians and
veterans of Northwestern Ontario. The gathering dedicated the cross to include not only
Indian veterans of the First World War but also of the Second World War, Korean War,
Vietnam, Gulf War and Peacekeeping Services.
Mount McKay - Mt. McKay
Memorial Cross dedicated to Indian Soldier of World War I. This is a concrete structure.
Photo Credit:
Thunder Bay Historical Museum Society
977.113. 310B
The gathering also included a feast and powwow which was held
in honour of the Indian veterans. In the traditions of the Anishinabe, veterans are held
in high regard. In the ceremony of the powwow it is often the veterans who carry the
National flags into the circle during Grand Entry. These flags include the eagle staff
which is the National flag of the Anishinabe people, the Canada flag and the U.S. flag.
These flags are honoured by the Flag Song. Then there is the Veterans song. A World War
Two soldier drum was brought from Manitou Rapids Reserve to honour this historic gathering
of Indian veterans. As the Veteran Song begins, all those who served in the military dance
in the circle first and then all family members join in and finally everyone is invited to
dance in honour of our country's protectors. The song and dance ceremonies instill an
emotional pride that we are free and live in peace. The Anishinabe word for soldier is Shimaginish
however, ancient warrior title are still used such as Ogichidaa or Minnissino.
The translations all mean a person whose ultimate and unconditional duty is protector of
the people.
Willy John was one of those people. His continuing dream was to have a local historical
book compiled about Indian contribution during the wars. His wish was to have the book
become part of the school curriculum so that all people become aware of what the
Anishinabe veterans did for Canada. He also wanted Anishinabe children to learn and be
proud of their people's military heritage. The Native Veterans have adopted the red poppy
and eagle feather as their official logo.
Memorial Photo Gallery of the Mount McKay Memorial Site and Remembrance Day
