Winnipeg, Manitoba — The Manitoba Legislative Assembly passed a resolution September 15 to recognize the third Saturday of September as Reserve Forces Day. The official day is a tribute to Reservists for their military and humanitarian efforts.
“Reservists deserve our gratitude … for the vital role they play in Canada’s peace keeping, peace making and other military and humanitarian missions internationally,” said the Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) for St. James, Bonnie Korzeniowski, who was behind the proposal for the official day of tribute. Ms. Korzeniowski is also Manitoba’s Special Envoy for Military Affairs.
The Honourable Philip Lee, Lieutenant-Governor of Manitoba, speaks during the announcement of Reserve Forces Day in Manitoba.
Manitoba Lieutenant Governor adds voice to tribute
After the resolution was passed, members of the Assembly gathered at the rotunda on the second floor of the Legislature to hear the Honourable Philip Lee, Lieutenant Governor of Manitoba.
“It’s a pleasure for me to join you in paying tribute to the men and women of Manitoba-based units of Canada’s Reserve Forces,” he said. “From now on, every September, Manitobans will have the opportunity to remember the brave contributions made by members of the Reserves on the battlefields of world wars, the peace and security missions around the world, and right here in our province.”
“Outstanding” support for Canadian military
“I think it’s an outstanding day,” said Brigadier-General Eldren Thuen, Director General of the Air Reserve and the Deputy Commander for Mission Support at 1 Canadian Air Division.
“Manitoba is graced with Bonnie Korzeniowski, [and] her zealous support of the Forces; … her support of the Reserves has been outstanding as well. She is a class lady who really has the best interests of Manitoba at heart.”
Remembering “The Man Called Intrepid”
In addition to the announcement, there was a display at the Legislature by members of the Intrepid Society in tribute to Canadian soldier and master spy, Sir William Stephenson, “The Man Called Intrepid.”
The First World War display for Sir William Stephenson, "The Man Called Intrepid."
“We assisted them in the staging of today’s event by having a display on Sir William’s activities in World War I,” said Colonel (retired) Gary Solar, President of the Intrepid Society.
“It’s a progressive display. We are going to have a World War II display and his work in the industry on display as well.”
The Intrepid Society is presently waiting for the City of Winnipeg to approve the renaming of Water Street to Sir William Stephenson Way.
Article by Cpl Bill Gomm, 38 CBG
