On April 26, 2023, Broadmead Care celebrated the 20th anniversary of the raising of the Veterans Memorial Totem Pole with a re-dedication ceremony at Veterans Memorial Lodge in Saanich.
Calvin Hunt, First Nations Master Carver and one of the totem pole’s original carvers, shared information about the totem’s history and symbolism. Also in attendance was Eric Pelkey, the WSÁNEĆ Leadership Council’s Community Engagement Coordinator and Hereditary Chief of Tsawout First Nation. Mr. Hunt’s family and friends joined in the celebration.
Broadmead Care also showcased stories about Indigenous Veterans from WWI to the present day.
The totem pole was commissioned by Broadmead Care in 2002, and unveiled in 2003 at the entrance of Veterans Memorial Lodge. The totem pole honours the contributions and sacrifices made by Indigenous Veterans. It was carved by Calvin Hunt, Mervin Child, and John Livingston.
The design features an eagle on top, which symbolizes nobility, integrity and heavenly pride. The next element is a warrior, wrapped in a blanket with a sisuth design, a double-headed serpent, which protects him from his enemies. At the bottom, the bear represents a fearless, strong, and determined spirit. It holds a salmon which symbolizes a long journey and a return home.
It is estimated that as many as 12,000 Indigenous, Métis, and Inuit people served in the great conflicts of the 20th century.
Broadmead Care also unveiled Memory Anchor’s digital preservation of the totem pole. Memory Anchor, funded by Veterans Affairs Canada, is a veteran-founded software company dedicated to the long term digital preservation of monuments, memorials, vehicles, and artifacts. The team (Ryan Mullens and Matthew Cudmore) produces high resolution 3D images that are accessible via computer or smartphone, in augmented reality.
Broadmead Care is privileged to care for Canada’s veterans at Veterans Memorial Lodge. It was our honour to host this re-dedication of the Veterans Memorial Totem Pole.
