Aboriginal war memorial unveiled at Couchiching

Almost 150 people were on hand at Couchiching First Nation on Tuesday to watch the unveiling of a monument honouring 103 aboriginal war veterans.
“In the Second [World War] and Korean wars, thousands of aboriginal men enlisted in the Canadian Armed Forces from this community . . . they deserve to be honoured,” said NDP leader and local MPP Howard Hampton.
Couchiching Chief Chuck McPherson said this monument is dedicated to all the people who gave unselfishly in the wars. “All these people gave and I am proud to be a part of this,” he noted.
Eugene McPherson, who organized the event, noted the unveiling of the monument was a historical day for Couchiching.
“This is super . . . the monument being here is a long time coming,” he told the crowd. “I would like to thank the committee . . . . We have finally done it.”
War vet Maurice T. Godin, who attended the unveiling from Erickson, Man., said the event was a success and it was an honour for him to be on hand for it.
“This event was very well attended and organized. To me, it was very meaningful . . . but to those who aren’t alive, this is a beautiful tribute.
“I am grateful to be here,” said Godin.
Godin thanked the audience for giving him something back.
“You don’t owe us [veterans] anything . . . because you gave us wives, children, nieces, grandchildren, and even great-grandchildren,” he said. “That is the thanks we get from serving in the war.”
Spectator Maureen Wasacase was pleased to be a part of the historical day.
“It was amazing. I am so glad they have got a monument to tribute the native veterans here,” she said. “It seems the committee worked hard and the community should be proud to have it here.”
Hampton agreed a monument and celebration of this kind were long overdue.
“This is very meaningful to me. It is a pleasure to have my name in stone,” echoed Godin.