Field of Crosses

28 minutes ago

As we look ahead to this evening's Indigenous Veterans Day Sunset Ceremony at The Field of Crosses, we would like to share the story of Rifleman Joe Poucette, whose life, service and sacrifice were honoured during this morning's Sunrise Ceremony.

Joe Poucette was born April 28, 1924, on the Stoney Nakoda Reserve in Morley, Alberta, he was the son of Peter and Jannie Poucette and brother to Noah. During his childhood, Joe fostered many interests and exhibited a fondness for sports including baseball, hockey, racing and football. He was also a keen outdoorsman with sharp hunting skills; he worked as a farmer and a trapper.

Joe enlisted on October 15, 1943, in Calgary, Alberta at the age of 19. He requested a position with an infantry unit and was assigned to the Royal Winnipeg Rifles. Joe enlisted in secret and made sure his paperwork was complete before he told his family. Prior to Joe leaving to join his unit, the community held a pow-pow to honour him and they gave him a traditional name and a ceremonial song.

In his last letter home he wrote, “ … I thought I missed the Calgary Stampede, but afterward I knew that I am doing the right job. …I would like to hear if any of the boys won anything at the Stampede. I am sure they all got a mouthful of dirt anyway.”

Joe was killed in action on 15 August 1944 in Normandy, France, during the Victory of Falaise. Rifleman Joe Poucette is buried at Bretteville-sur-Laize Canadian Cemetery in Calvados, France.

Each November, during the Eleven Days of Remembrance in Calgary, Alberta, the Field of Crosses honours Rifleman Joe Poucette and commemorates his service and sacrifice.

🌇 Tonight's Sunset Ceremony: 5:58 PM

We invite the community to join us this evening as we continue to recognize the contributions of Indigenous Veterans and remember those who gave their lives in service to Canada.

Those planning to attend are kindly asked to arrive at least 10 minutes before the ceremony begins. ... See MoreSee Less

Field of Crosses

16 hours ago

🇨🇦 November 8 | Indigenous Veterans Day

Today, The Field of Crosses commemorates Indigenous Veterans Day, honouring the courage, service and sacrifice of First Nations, Métis and Inuit men and women who have made significant contributions to Canada's military history.

Throughout generations, Indigenous Canadians have served our country with distinction, demonstrating remarkable bravery, resilience and dedication, often while facing discrimination and barriers to equal recognition.

During the First World War, Indigenous soldiers brought valuable skills to the battlefield, including exceptional marksmanship, patience and reconnaissance abilities. Many served as snipers and scouts, making important contributions to Canada's military efforts.

Indigenous service members earned more than 50 decorations for bravery during the First World War. Among those remembered is Henry Louis Norwest, a Métis soldier from Alberta who became one of the most accomplished snipers in the Canadian Corps. His remarkable service and ultimate sacrifice remain an important part of Canada's military history and are commemorated annually at The Field of Crosses.

Today, we remember Norwest and the many Indigenous service members who answered the call to serve, including those who never returned home. Their stories deserve to be shared, their contributions recognized and their sacrifices never forgotten.

🌅 Sunrise Ceremony: 8:41 AM
🌇 Sunset Ceremony: 5:58 PM

Those planning to attend are kindly asked to arrive at least 10 minutes before each ceremony begins.

Lest We Forget. 🇨🇦

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