DELTA, BC, Oct. 16, 2026 /CNW/ -- The service and sacrifices of Canada's military members have helped shape the nation we know today. Their dedication has safeguarded our freedoms and created a legacy that continues to inspire and connect all Canadians.

Today, at the Delta Secondary School, the Honourable Jill McKnight, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence, unveiled the 2026 Veterans' Week poster, in the company of Persian Gulf War Veteran, Lynn Doucette, and students.

This year's Veterans' Week poster features artwork created by Chaelyn Han of Vancouver, British Columbia, as part of The Royal Canadian Legion's National Youth Remembrance Contest held in conjunction with the Legion National Foundation.

Following the poster unveiling, the Minister invited Veterans and students to share their stories and perspectives on what remembrance means to them. Their in-depth conversation reflected how each has different perspectives, and that remembrance and sharing stories is for Canadians of all ages.

Quotes

"Remembrance lives on when stories are shared from one generation to the next. By learning about the service and sacrifices of Canada's Veterans, young Canadians play an important role in ensuring their legacy endures. Chaelyn's artwork is a powerful example of how youth across Canada are helping carry remembrance forward and honour those who served our country."

The Honourable Jill McKnight, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence

"I am really grateful to be able to share my artwork as a part of Veterans' Week. I hope my piece can help encourage people to reflect on the meaning of remembrance and connect in their own ways."

Chaelyn Han

"We are so pleased by the artwork on the Veterans' Week poster this year. With the thoughtful creativity we have seen over more than sixty years of the Legion's contests, it is clear that our youth have a deep understanding of Remembrance and sacrifice and will carry Canada's collective gratitude forward."

Sharon McKeown, Dominion President, The Royal Canadian Legion

Quick facts:

• Every year, in the lead up to Remembrance Day, Canadians observe Veterans' Week from November 5-11.
  
  
• From the World Wars to today's Canadian Armed Forces missions, Canadian Veterans have safeguarded peace and security at home and around the world. Their contributions continue to shape the freedoms, values and safety Canadians benefit from every day.
  
  
• This year's Veterans' Week poster features the artwork of Chaelyn, a former student of École Cariboo Hill Secondary School in British Columbia. Chaelyn used bright colours and stylized figures to show how the service and sacrifice of Canada's Veterans supports the safe and free Canada we enjoy today.
  
  
• The Royal Canadian Legion is a valuable pillar of the Veteran community and local communities across Canada. We are honoured to work alongside the Legion with a shared commitment to honouring service, supporting Canada's Veterans and fostering remembrance.

Associated links:

• 2026 Veterans' Week poster
• Remembrance Day & Veterans' Week - Veterans Affairs Canada
• Learning resources
• Royal Canadian Legion National Youth Remembrance Contests

SOURCE Veterans Affairs Canada - Ottawa