Marlene Rice (Hwiem') tells the story of the Veterans Totem Pole and Veterans Cenotaph
In 2015, retired Elder-in-Residence and Master Carver Harold Joe brought forward a wonderful idea to acknowledge our First Nations Veterans. A ceremony was held at one of our sacred Longhouses, where 56 Veterans were acknowledged. Families brought pictures of their loved ones to be honoured and paddles were made for each family, with the Veteran’s name painted on the paddle.
During the ceremony, flag bearers marched in holding the Eagle Staff, the Veteran’s Flag, the American Flag and the Canadian Flag. The Veterans acknowledged came from all territories on Vancouver Island, the Mainland and the United States. We honour Veterans from various territories due to our relationships and connections to all people.
The Veterans acknowledged came from different military categories, including Missing in Action, Navy, Army, Airforce, Reserves as well as those who served in the Second World War, the Korean War and Vietnam. In 2017, Master Carver Harold Joe, along with apprentice carver George Rice, created a Veterans Totem Pole and Veterans Cenotaph. Both are now housed here at VIU Cowichan, in dedication to the First Nations Veterans.
The Veterans Cenotaph features the “All My Relations” emblem:
- Eagle (left): Symbolizes illumination and spiritual power. Its energy heals and aids creation.
- Two Warriors (centre): The warriors greet each other by touching foreheads, forming the shape of a heart. It symbolizes keeping spirits high while overcoming life’s challenges, much like in life or sports, whether winning or losing. The heart symbolizes strength and unity, one heart and mind.
- Raven (right): Symbolizes magic, shapeshifting, creation and communication. Raven teaches us how to give form to what is unformed.
These symbols honour the resilience, spirit and connection shared by our First Nations Veterans.
