Abbotsford is one of 14 cities across Canada taking part in the Canadian Walk for Veterans on the weekend of Sept. 21 and 22.
The Fraser Valley event takes place Saturday, Sept. 21 at Mill Lake Park on Bevan Avenue. Registration begins at 9 a.m. and the walk runs from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The 2024 Canadian Walk for Veterans also marks the launch of a new era, as True Patriot Love Foundation becomes the national coordinator of the walk after taking over from One Veteran Society, the founder.
In addition to lunch supplied by The Fishing Panda food truck, there will be a display of military vehicles courtesy of the Canadian Military Education Centre and Western Command Military Vehicle Historical Society.
There will also be live music by the 15th Field Artillery Regimental brass quintet and – new this year – free “cuts for vets” courtesy of the Shear Performance Barbershop team.
Net proceeds from the Fraser Valley/Abbotsford walk go towards supporting veterans across Canada on their recovery journey, through the power of sport, arts and through their participation as members of Team Canada in the 2025 Invictus Games in Vancouver and Whistler.
Each year, the event invites Canadians to walk together in recognition of serving members of the armed forces, veterans and their families.
The walk also provides an opportunity to learn more about the mental and physical challenges faced by those who serve our country and to recognize the sacrifices they and their families make on behalf of Canadians. The theme for the 2024 walk is A Veteran’s Recovery Journey.
Those who cannot attend the event but would like to support Canadian veterans and their families can register for a virtual walk and participate where they want, when they want.
Everyone who registers will receive the 2024 Canadian Walk for Veterans challenge coin produced by veteran-owned Sharkz Coins of Esquimalt.
Registration and more information, including a map of the walk route, can be found at canadianwalkforveterans.com/fraser_valley
