Long awaited unveiling of the Nicola Valley First Nations Veterans monument

MERRITT – After years of service and sacrifice, the First Nations Veterans of the Nicola Valley were honoured with a new monument.

The new Nicola Valley First Nations memorial monument was unveiled on Sunday (May 28) in Shulus.

The three pillared monument features 67 names of First Nations veterans who have served for their country in battles like World War 1 and 2, the Korean War, Vietnam.

Coral Holmes, one of the spokesperson for the event, said this moment is long overdue but shows a bright future.

“When you take a look at the darker parts of first nations history, and for me, I don’t see this as a darker part, I see this as a place for people to celebrate. Our people stood up at a time when we weren’t really recognized in this country and it wasn’t even a requirement for us to go to war, but yet they stood up.”

Grand Chief and Veteran, Percy Joe, points out the names on the monument are eye level and easy for those to see the names and feel the connection.

“I think it’s important that people can come and see their families and their names on the monument. I think that’s what it’s all about and recognize the sacrifices that they made and we are trying to be inclusive on everybody that served.”

During the unveiling ceremony, there was special speeches from Sgt. Kyla Boston of the Royal Westminster Regiment, RCMP Cst. Delvin Hall, and Valerie Charters, speaking on behalf of her brother, Earl Chambers, a Medic.

Also in attendance was Stuart Jackson, Lower Nicola Indian Band Chief, and Daniel Manuel, Upper Nicola Indian Band Chief.

The monument is located beside the Shulus Arbour, in Lower Nicola, where the previous memorial rock is as well.

(Image credit: Zachary Stewart/Q101)

(Image credit: Zachary Stewart/Q101)

(Image credit: Zachary Stewart/Q101)