Valour Canada

06/24/2026

Henry Norwest’s legendary marksmanship and ability to slip behind enemy lines contributed to Indigenous soldiers’ reputation as unparalleled snipers and reconnaissance scouts.

To learn more, visit our article: https://valourcanada.ca/military-history-library/henry-norwest/

06/23/2026

Watch CTV News highlighting Valour Canada’s 2026 Italian Battlefield Remembrance Tour (November 1–14, 2026). More than a tour, this is an opportunity to walk in the footsteps of Canadians who served during the Second World War Italian Campaign, visit historic battlefields and cemeteries, and reflect on the sacrifices that helped shape our nation.

Watch it here: https://www.ctvnews.ca/calgary/video/2026/06/16/valour-canada-to-host-italian-battlefield-remembrance-tour/ and hear from our Board Directors Mark Illing and Dr. Vicki Sotvedt as they share why they are taking part in this meaningful journey.

Learn more and sign up to be part of this once-in-a-lifetime experience here: https://www.explorica.ca/adams-356

The Canadian Armed Forces had a large presence in Italy during the Second World War. Valour Canada will host an Italian Battlefield Remembrance Tour in November

06/21/2026

National Indigenous Peoples Day is a day for Canadians to honour and celebrate the rich heritage, diverse cultures, and significant contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples throughout the country.

To learn more about Indigenous contributions to Canadian military history, visit our library: https://valourcanada.ca/education/classroom-resources/diversity-inclusivity/

06/18/2026

The North-West Resistance began after the Metis in North Saskatchewan established a provisional government under Louis Riel. The first proper armed engagement in the conflict occurred during the Battle of Duck Lake, which was a resounding victory for the Métis forces.

To learn more, visit our article: https://valourcanada.ca/military-history-library/battle-duck-lake/

06/16/2026

Join us for a special evening on June 25 at The Military Museums to learn about our 2026 Italian Battlefield Remembrance Tour running from November 1 - 14, 2026.

- 6:30 - 8:00 PM, Thursday, June 25, 2026. The Military Museums and The Lord Strathcona's Horse Gallery
- Free admission. One complimentary refreshment (cash bar thereafter) and appetizers
- To attend this tour information session, pre-registration is required: https://forms.office.com/r/4SLrkLrDeT

Meet tour historian and guide Dr. Vicki Sotvedt, listen to Captain Sheldon K. E. Smith speak about the Lord Strathcona's Horse's involvement in the Italian Campaign, discover some of the remarkable stories connected to the places we will visit and learn what makes the tour unique, and ask questions and explore whether this tour is right for you!

06/15/2026

The final and most significant battle of the North-West Resistance was the Battle of Batoche – it was fought from May 9th to May 12th, 1885, between Riel’s Métis fighters and Middleton’s militia forces.

To learn more, visit our article: https://valourcanada.ca/military-history-library/battle-batoche/

06/12/2026

Todd Ross joined the Canadian Armed Forces as a Naval Combat Information Officer but was later dismissed from the Navy because of his sexuality.

To learn more, visit our article: https://valourcanada.ca/military-history-library/todd-ross/

06/09/2026

Canada has had many accomplished Indigenous snipers, including Henry Norwest, John Shiwak, Johnson Paudash, Philip McDonald, and Patrick Reil.

To learn more, visit our article: https://valourcanada.ca/military-history-library/longest-confirmed-snipe/

06/08/2026

Photographs from the Second World War offer a glimpse into the past, but they rarely capture the full reality faced by the Canadians who served overseas — long days, harsh conditions, and the constant uncertainty of war.

Shown in this image are Company ‘B’ of the Seaforth Highlanders moving towards Ortona (city can be seen in the distance ahead of them) alongside a coastal path infested with mines. 21 December 1943.

From Nov. 1–14, 2026, join Valour Canada on our Italian Battlefield Remembrance Tour and experience the historic ground where Canadians fought through the Italian Campaign. Through visits to battlefields, cemeteries, and historic sites, participants will gain a deeper understanding of Canada’s role and sacrifice in Italy. Learn more: https://valourcanada.ca/events/italian-battlefield-tour-faqs/

06/05/2026

Michelle Douglas joined the Canadian Armed Forces in 1986. She became an Air Force Lieutenant and later joined the Special Investigation Unit. She was discriminated against and dismissed in 1989 due to her sexuality.

To learn more, visit our article: https://valourcanada.ca/military-history-library/michelle-douglas/