Southern Chiefs’ Organization recognizes First Nation Veterans from southern Manitoba for their valiant bravery, sacrifice, and achievements. To honour them, SCO has created a Wall of Honour, featuring Veterans from our 33 Anishinaabe and Dakota First Nations. We thank these courageous and hard-working individuals for their service.
Lest We Forget.
Have a name/photo you would like to submit? Email it to media@scoinc.mb.ca!
Norman Thomas Beauchamp of Long Plain First Nation was a much-loved father and grandfather to many children and grandchildren. He fought bravely and with courage in World War II and the Korean War.
Daniel Black, a proud member of the Brokenhead Ojibway Nation, enlisted in the military in 2006. He served as a Corporal in the 1 Military Police Regiment for a decade, from 2006 to 2016. Daniel was deployed to Afghanistan from September 2009 to May 2010, a 9-month period of service that earned him the Campaign Star Medal and Bar, the latter awarded for time spent overseas beyond the normal six months. One humorous anecdote he shared was that the Afghan National Army often mistook him for a boy due to his inability to grow a beard. Today, Daniel resides in his home community of Brokenhead Ojibway Nation, where he continues to embody the spirit of dedication and service.
Donald R. Catcheway from Skownan First Nation was born in 1934 and served as a Private in the Canadian Armed Forces from 1955 to 1958. His service took him to Calgary, AB, Germany and Victoria, BC. Donald Catcheway was Chief of Skownan First Nation (formerly Waterhen Band) for one term in 1969-71 and is a signatory to “Wahbung: Our Tomorrows”. He then served as a Band Councillor for several years after. Donald is husband to Mary-Bert Catcheway (nee Chartrand).
Alfred Chartrand from Skownan First Nation and born in 1885 was a Sapper with the Canadian Engineers Unit in the Canadian Army. Alfred fought bravely with much courage in WWI, died on May 31, 1918, and is buried in Pas de Calais, France. He was the son of Joseph and Caroline Chartrand and husband of Mary Elizabeth Chartrand. Before enlisting he was a fisherman providing for his family and community.
Mervin Clarke of Hollow Water First Nation joined the Canadian Armed Forces in 1970 and served on peace-keeping missions in Cyprus with the Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry. He would be stationed in Germany and across Canada before retiring in 1993.
Mervin continues to serve Indigenous communities by working for the Federal Government with Indigneous Services Canada, bringing his total years of service to over 50 years!
A proud father, papa, and brother, Mervin loves to hunt and golf in his spare time.
Herbert Daniels from Long Plain First Nation was enlisted with the 2nd Battalion Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry’s (2PPCLI) Airborne Unit and stationed in Korea in 1953. His battalion won a Presidential Unit Citation for its performance in a battle at Kapyong.
His wife Gladys Meeches was proud to share that Herbert was also awarded the Purple Heart during his service with the Canadian Army. Herbert made his journey home to the Spirit world in 1979 and we are grateful for his brave service and sacrifice.
Lionel Daniels, originally a citizen of Peguis First Nation currently Little Black River First Nation, joined basic training in CFRS Cornwallis, Nova Scotia September 27, 1990 and then attended CFB Shilo for artillery training. After graduating, he was assigned to 1RCHA Shilo, Manitoba then in 1992 was deployed on a 6-month United Nations tour to Cyprus followed by another six month tour to Bosnia in 1994. Lionel was honourably discharged September 27, 1996.
James W. Eagle, or Sit Alone Bear, was born 1934 in Tootinaowaziibeeng First Nation. He served for 25 years in the Canadian Armed Forces from 1953-1978, including three peacekeeping tours with NATO in Cyprus and Germany, and he received several medals.
A respected Elder, Mr. Eagle has spent years working predominately for Indigenous organizations and has been active in rights and justice related to Indigenous issues. He was involved with the National Aboriginal Veterans and was an instrumental figure in getting the Aboriginal War Memorial completed in Ottawa’s Confederation Park on June 21, 2001.
James has been happily married for 64 years and resides in Ottawa, Ontario.
Felix Ambrose Fontaine was born in Sagkeeng First Nation and enlisted in June 1942. After training, he traveled to England then to North Africa and Italy, where he fought alongside British forces in September 1943.
Felix was wounded in action by an explosion and partially lost his hearing. After hospitalization he returned to the frontline where he remained until the war’s end. Felix won several medals: The Eastern Star, Italy Star, Canadian Volunteer Service Medal, 1939-1945 War Medal, and The King George Vl Medal.
Felix returned to Sagkeeng to take a lead role in changing the education system and was elected to Council. Felix shared many stories and teachings throughout his life with his home community about the sacrifices made by Veterans and the importance of Remembrance Day.
Leon Xavier Fontaine was born in Sagkeeng First Nation and attended the Fort Alexander residential school from 1939 to 1947. At 19, he enlisted and served in the Korean War, where he would be injured in action.
On honorable release from the Canadian Armed Forces, Leon completed training and apprenticeship as a plumber and pipefitter.
In his later years, Leon took a lead role in lobbying for the rights of First Nation Veterans who did not receive the same rights and benefits as other Veterans. He served as Vice-President of the Manitoba Aboriginal Veterans Association and as the Manitoba First Nation Representative in the annual Remembrance Day Services in Ottawa for 12 years.
Leon’s efforts and bravery helped people from all corners of the Earth.
Chief Warrant Officer Sherri Forward (nee Lavallee), a member of Minegoziibe Anishinabe (Pine Creek First Nation), joined the Canadian Forces in November 1989 as a Traffic Technician. Her first posting was to Canadian Armed Forces Base Kingston in 1992, where she spent the first seven years of her career.
In 1999, she was promoted to Master Corporal and posted to 1 Air Movements Squadron, 17 Wing Winnipeg, where she served on a Mobile Air Movements Section Team and deployed to the Golan Heights in 2001. Promoted to Sergeant in 2003, she was posted to 2 Service Battalion at Garrison Petawawa in 2006 and later served a tour in Afghanistan as Traffic Platoon Warrant Officer in 2008.
Following a promotion to Master Warrant Officer, she was posted to Canadian Materiel Support Group Headquarters in Ottawa in 2011. In July 2015, she joined 1 Canadian Air Division Headquarters and was promoted to Chief Warrant Officer in 2016, assuming the role of A4 Logistics Directorate Chief Warrant Officer.
In 2018, she became the first female Formation Chief Warrant Officer for Joint Task Force North in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories. Since June 2021, she has been serving as the Senior Military Advisor for the Anti-Racism Secretariat/Director Anti-Racism Implementation, Chief Professional Conduct and Culture, working remotely from Yellowknife. As of July 2024, Chief Warrant Officer Forward continues to serve her Nation proudly in the regular force.
Vince Henderson, a proud member of Pinaymootang First Nation, has dedicated over 42 years to public service, including 29 years in the armed forces. As a medical technician and health services administrator, he served in Germany, Cyprus, Croatia, and Afghanistan, and participated in domestic missions like Manitoba’s Flood of the Century and Quebec’s Ice Storms. While in the army, he earned a BA Honors in Psychology with a minor in Native Studies from the University of Manitoba. Vince is committed to public service, working with regional health authorities to ensure top-tier healthcare and striving for accreditation for the new Health Centre of Excellence in Norway House. He follows the Red Road, integrating Indigenous cultural practices into his life and work, enriching both personal and professional realms.
Sergeant Donald Vernon Houle (CD1) grew up in Sandy Bay First Nation and served in the Canadian Armed Forces from 1971-1996. Awarded with several medals for his valour, Donald Houle toured the Middle East then was stationed around the world and across Canada. He is a member of the Canadian Aboriginal Veterans as well as the Kainai Headdress Society.
Donald now lives in Kainai First Nation, in what is now southern Alberta, on Blood Reserve 148 with his wife of 47 years, where he has worked as a cattle rancher since retiring from the military.
Warrant Officer Julian Houle (JC) from Ebb and Flow First Nation has over 17 years of service and as of February 2024, is posted to 1st Regiment, Royal Canadian Horse Artillery at CFB Shilo.
Julian joined in February 2007 as a member of the 1st Regiment Royal Canadian Horse Artillery and continues to serve with them as a Warrant Officer. During his long career Warrant Houle has been on numerous overseas and domestic deployments. These deployments include Afghanistan in 2009 as part of OP ATHENA and Latvia in 2017 as part of OP REASSURANCE. Warrant Houle has also protected Manitobans during the floods in 2012 and the BC Wildfires in 2023 as part of OP LENTUS. For his service at home and on deployment, Warrant Houle has earned many medals. These medals include the General Campaign Star for his deployment to Afghanistan, the Special Service Medal for his four trips to Latvia and the Canadian Forces’ Decoration for his long career of exemplary service. His athleticism led him to being a five time Strong Contender Champion for Ball Hockey and a member of the Shilo Regional Golf Team.
William George Mann (1930-1995) was born in Sagkeeng First Nation and was a direct descendent of Kakekipenace, who was a signatory to Treaty 1.
Mann served in Korea and the Far East, was twice wounded, and went missing in action during his service. As a result, he received the Oak Leaf for bravery, the Korea medal, UN Medal, the Volunteer Medal, and even the Coronation Medal when he was present in London, England as part of the Canadian contingent for the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II in 1953. A proud Anishinaabe Ogichidaa, Mann co-founded and was the first president of the Manitoba Aboriginal Veteran’s Association, as well as a member of the National Executive.
Five friends from the St. Peters Peguis Reserve enlisted together in 1915, in Selkirk MB to fight in World War I, including Oswald McCorrister (front left), his brother William McCorrister (centre back), and Charles Stewart (Back Left). Oswald and William were in the 108th battalion.
Oswald is buried in France and William died a month after returning home, from a war wound. Charles returned home safely and worked as a Red River Ship Captain until a fatal accident in 1931.
There were almost 100 veterans from the St. Peters Peguis Reserve who served with honour and bravery in World Wars I and II as well as the Korean War.
Private Arthur Meeches, from Long Plain First Nation, attended Brandon Indian Residential School and later graduated from Red River College in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Arthur went on to enlist in the military and he served in Korea from 1951 to 1952 with the 1st Battalion Princess Patricia Canadian Light Infantry’s Air Borne Unit and was honourably discharged as a Private in 1954.
Chief George Myran, from Long Plain First Nation, served in the Canadian military during World War II. George was a band councillor for 8 years and later became Chief of Long Plain. In his later years, George became a representative on behalf of Long Plain veterans and traveled to France to commemorate First Nation veterans who served over seas during times of war.
Delmar Peters, from Swan Lake and Long Plain First Nations, began his distinguished military career in 1988 with the Canadian Armed Forces, serving with the 1 RCHA in Shilo, MB, until 1994. A skilled Parachutist, Artillery Gunner, and Artillery Surveyor, he deployed across Canada and in 1993 served with the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus.
In 2001, Delmar joined the U.S. Navy as a Hospital Corpsman (Combat Medic), providing critical medical care to U.S. Marine Corps units. His deployments included Okinawa, Japan, and Camp Pendleton, California, as well as seven months aboard the USS Peleliu. He also served at the United States Naval Trauma Training Center in Los Angeles. Notably, he completed two Iraq tours, including with the Surgical Shock Trauma Platoon at Camp Taqaddum during Operation Iraqi Freedom, delivering life-saving care under combat conditions.
Born in Long Plain First Nation, Rufus Prince (1920-1989) served the Canadian Army in Italy during World War II. On returning from the war, Rufus was elected as Chief of Long Plain, and later became vice-president of the Manitoba Indian Brotherhood. Prince helped found the Dakota Ojibway Tribal Council and the Dakota Ojibway Police Force, the first Indigenous law enforcement agency in Canada, in 1977.
Before his service, Prince attended the Portage la Prairie Indian Residential School, now renamed the “Rufus Prince Building”.
Thomas George Prince, a descendant of Chief Peguis, was from Brokenhead Ojibway Nation. He is one of Canada’s most decorated First Nation war heroes!
Prince was known to carry a pair of moccasins that he would use to silently infiltrate enemy bases in the cover of night. He would even play tricks on soldiers as they slept; such as taking their boots or leaving a calling card while slipping away unnoticed. His unit became known as the Devil’s Brigade because the Nazis couldn’t believe that he was a real person.
Tommy Prince was decorated by King George VI at Buckingham Palace with both the Military Medal and the Silver Star with ribbon, on behalf of the US President.
Burke Ratte, from Brokenhead Ojibway First Nation, enlisted in the Marines in July 1985. During his time in the Marines, he participated on numerous deployments, including operations and exercises in Japan, South Korea, Philippines, Solomon Islands, California, and Hawaii. For his honoured service, Burke received a Marine Good Conduct Medal, Korean Defense Service Medal, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon W/1 Star and Certificate of Service during the Cold War, and a Commemorative Medal.
During his service, Burke was a weapons expert and Marine Marksmanship Instructor. Burke instructed Marines on their annual rifle qualification with the M-16 A2. He also had the opportunity to compete in various rifle shooting matches at the division and regional level, earning him has a fourth award Expert Rifle Badge and a regional Bronze Shooting Medal.
Burke continues to serve his community. As of January 2024, he is the Lands and Resources Manager for Brokenhead Ojibway First Nation.
Elliott Ratt, from Peguis First Nation, served in World War I with the Canadian Army from 1916 to 1918. He was wounded in action by mustard gas and returned from the war to live in the Selkirk, Manitoba area. He had a small farm in Libau, MB, was able to receive a Veteran’s pension, and spent his time as a contractor for farmers in the Libau area helping to clear farmland.
In 1944, Elliott passed away due to complications from his exposure to mustard gas, leaving behind his wife, Mary Louise George, and 16 children. Elliot and Mary were both Peguis First Nation band members.
Lambert Sanderson, from Pinaymootang First Nation, was a Rifleman from the Royal Winnipeg Rifles, B Company. He exemplified extraordinary bravery and sacrifice during his service in World War II. As part of the first wave landing on D-Day at Juno Beach’s Mike Red Sector, his company faced devastating casualties. Despite the harrowing circumstances, Lambert displayed unwavering courage, enduring through the beach assault alongside his comrades. Despite sustaining injuries, he continued to fight, reflecting his commitment to duty and honour.
Following his return to Canada and wounded from the beach assault, Lambert received treatment at the Deer Lodge Hospital. Tragically, he succumbed to his injuries on September 28, 1946. His legacy as a proud First Nations Veteran from Pinaymootang First Nation lives on, remembered for his selflessness and dedication to his country.
In recognition of his valour, Lambert Sanderson was awarded five medals for his service, including the 1939/45 Star, the France and Germany Star, the Defence Medal, the Canada Volunteer Service Medal, and the 1939-1945 War Medal. His sacrifice and bravery will forever be honoured and remembered by those he served alongside and the grateful nation he fought to defend.
Lionel Shannacappo from Rolling River First Nation, whose Anishinaabe Wiinzowin was Manidoo-Asin, served in World War II. He was a Chief of Rolling River First Nation, a Sundance Chief, and Midewiwin. He was a carrier of multiple pipes, sang Sundance songs, and Midewiwin Water Drum Songs.
His protective spirit extended beyond the battlefield as Lionel advocated for First Nations rights by being a part of the National Indian Advisory Board in the 1960s which was a precursor to the Assembly of First Nations.
Allan Sinclair, hailing from the Brokenhead Ojibway Nation, enlisted in the army at the young age of 17. He was inspired by his esteemed uncle, Tommy Prince, to join the military. Allan served with distinction in the 3VP Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry for five years. During his service, he was deployed as a peacekeeper to Cyprus, where he contributed to international stability and peace. For his efforts, Allan received the Canadian Peacekeeping Service Medal. His dedication and bravery reflect the proud tradition of service within his family and his Nation.
Sargent Jessica Spence from Peguis First Nation has over 15 years of service with the Canadian Armed Forces, beginning with her graduation from the Royal Canadian Navy Raven Program in 2006. Jessica then joined the regular force in 2009 as a Navy Culinary Technician. Jessica spent 13 years in the Navy, acquiring over 360 days at sea aboard many ships, including HMCS Vancouver, HMCS Ottawa, HMCS Winnipeg, and the HMCS Oriole.
During her time aboard HMCS Vancouver, Jessica deployed overseas to the Mediterranean Sea and earned two NATO medals. Jessica has a total of three medals, including the Canadian Forces’ Decoration medal. As of January 2024, Jessica is in the Airforce, posted to 17 Wing in Winnipeg, Manitoba. She is the second in command of kitchen operation at 17 Wing Mission Support Squadron.
Corporal Melvin Swan, CD, was born in Ashern, Manitoba in 1959 and grew up in Lake Manitoba First Nation. Melvin served four years in the Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry and seven years in the military police.
“When I was 18, I needed to get away after day school and residential school, and I left for the military.”
Following his service, Swan won a Federal Court case against the military for discrimination during his time in uniform.
When asked about what Indigenous Veteran’s Day means to him, Melvin said, “Well, I was there when it was created… What it means to me, is always remembering the Veterans that have passed, and honouring them in a good way.”
A member of Skownan First Nation, Sgt. Brent Thompson’s service in the Canadian Armed Forces exemplifies profound dedication to his country, his physical health and his fellow soldiers. Sgt. Thompson enlisted in 2000 as a vehicle technician and has served over 24 years. During this time, Sgt. Thompson has been deployed to Dubai, Kuwait, CFS Alert, and a 29-day stint in Afghanistan. During these deployments, he undertook challenging operations in diverse environments to support the mission success of his unit overseas. Sgt. Thompson’s dedication to service while deployed overseas is reflected in his medals including one Special Service Medal, two General Service Medals, and a Canadian Forces Decoration.
Beyond his main duty Sgt. Thompson spent time inspiring his peers in their physical fitness journeys. This was especially apparent during his 2018 tour in Kuwait, where his commitment to fitness led him to run more than 2,200 km. This achievement in conjunction with motivating his peers led him to earn the Canadian Joint Operations Command Chief Warrant Officer Coin.
From 2016 to 2024, Sgt. Thompson carried the Canadian Forces Eagle Staff on behalf of Indigenous members, embodying the highest honour as a protector and advocate for First Nations people. The Canadian Forces Eagle Staff is a revered symbol of unity, pride, and ancestral connection to First Nations culture. Sgt. Thompson’s role in carrying it at ceremonies across France, Belgium, and Italy reflects his commitment to upholding these traditions.
This commitment to upholding traditions is also reflected in his work within the Defence Indigenous Advisory Group (DIAG) at 17 Wing. His work on the DIAG at 17 Wing brought sacred medicines and sweat lodge access to 17 Wing, offering essential support to Indigenous soldiers.
Doug Tiyza, a proud member of Peguis First Nation, demonstrated remarkable valour and commitment throughout his tenure in the Canadian Armed Forces. Enrolling via the Bold Eagle Program in 2000, he swiftly found himself serving with the 2nd Battalion, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry, just preceding the tragic events of 9/11.
Responding to the call of duty, Tiyza embarked on two tours in Afghanistan in 2002 and 2006, showcasing unwavering bravery in the face of adversity. However, it was during his second deployment that he faced the ultimate test, sustaining critical injuries from a mortar strike in 2006, necessitating urgent medical evacuation to Germany and subsequent repatriation to Canada.
His selfless sacrifice did not go unnoticed, as he was honoured with the Sacrifice Medal, in addition to the Afghanistan Campaign Star and The South-West Asia Service Medal. Despite the challenges, Tiyza treasures the enduring bonds of camaraderie forged with fellow soldiers, alongside the invaluable lessons learned about integrity, honour, and the true essence of family during his time in service.