On behalf of the Grand Master of the Order of St George. it is with great pleasure that I report to you that The Hamilton Afghanistan War Monument was officially unveiled and dedicated today. Chevalier Keven Ellis, KStG and President of The North Wall Riders Association (Steel City), together with his wife Wendy, conceived the idea of dedicating a memorial for Hamilton. Chevalier George Seehaver, KCStG and NWRA member, also dedicated himself to this project.  Through their physical effort and fundraising, The North Wall Riders Association, and the Community made possible the installation of the LAV II, which was placed in a strategic location at the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum.

The Hamilton Afghanistan Monument is dedicated to the Canadians who served in Afghanistan, including the 158 military and 3 civilians killed in theatre and the others who died subsequently because of their service.

It was a glorious day and the turnout was truly heartwarming.  For those of you who were unable to attend, I shall try at providing an overview.   Those being honoured, would have been proud.

Firstly, a musical prelude, performed by the Band of The Royal Hamilton Light Infantry (Wentworth Regiment), and the Pipes and Drums of The Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders of Canada (Princess Louise’s).

A number of dignitaries welcomed the crowd.

Colonel Christopher Poole, CD, Commander 331 Canadian Brigade Group
Honorary Lieutenant-Colonel Glenn Gibson
Councilor Brenda Johnston

After the National Anthem, Chevalier Keven Ellis, KStG, CH, and President of the NWRA was introduced, with Keven explaining how the project was conceived and he thanked the many donors and volunteers who made it possible, too many to thank by name.

Representatives of both the Federal and Provincial Governments and the City of Hamilton, as well as Colonel Poole, CD, applauded the achievement of the NWRA and their constant involvement in aiding the Military.

The LAV II was unveiled, and a great ovation was forthcoming from all in attendance.  It was a very emotional moment.  The four Silver Cross Mothers were in attendance, also our Silver Cross Mother Dame Donna Beek DStG, of The Order of Saint George, Toronto Command.

Next, the Dedication and Blessing were performed by our Field Knight the Reverend Francis Chisholm, KT.

Act of Remembrance:
They shall grow not old, as we
that are left grow old:
Age shall not weary them, nor the
years condemn.                                                                                                                                                            At the going down of the sun and
in the morning,
We will remember them.

Wreaths were placed at the base of the LAV II by a number of organizations.  Our Grand Master, Gareth Green, KGCStG was accompanied up the hill to the LAV II by myself, Niagara Commander, chevalier Richard Zirger KCStG and Chevalier Morris Vaughan, KGCStG.

After the Royal Anthem and closing remarks by Colonel Peter Young, CD., a lovely reception was held inside the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum.

A special thanks to our Grand Master for his participation in the laying of the wreath, to Chevalier Charles Hill, KGCStG, President of the National Council, for his assistance, to the Dames who travelled from Toronto and to all the other Knights and Dames of the Niagara Command, who also travelled to Mount Hope, representing The Order of St George.

In addition, I would like to give recognition to Chevalier Mark Halden, KStG, who transport eight Afghanistan Veterans so they could attend the Ceremony.  I am sure they were moved, as was I, by the proceedings.

The Order of Saint George was honoured to participate as a donor and significant participant in this significant project and worthwhile tribute to our troops.

Richard Zirger, KCStG, B.Com
Niagara Commander