Honouring Our Veterans: Lax Kw’alaams Veterans Memorial Unveiling

| Administration, Lax Kw'alaams Wap Suwilaawksa, Mayor and Council, Membership|

November 21, 2024

On November 15, a tribute to the veterans of Lax Kw’alaams was unveiled at Lax Kw’alaams Wap Suwilaawksa. This memorial honours Lax Kw’alaams veterans who served in World War I, World War II, the Gulf War, the Canadian Rangers, and acknowledges other veterans from the community.

The project was brought to life through the efforts of the Tsimshian Arts and Culture Society in Prince Rupert, with funding support from Veterans Affairs and the Lax Kw’alaams Band.

Artist Lianna Spence designed the memorial, featuring a poppy design intertwined with the four main Crests and a central Moon design titled “Opza dip Ko’olt,” meaning “Lest We Forget.” This symbolism pays homage to the many veterans who gazed at the moon during their nights of service in Europe to remind them of home.

The memorial also incorporates significant artwork:

Bottom left: A piece by Frederick Alexcee representing the Hereditary Chiefs.
Right side: “Our Peaceful Land,” by Betty Sampson represents the Matriarchs.

This memorial stands as a profound reminder of the sacrifices made by Lax Kw’alaams veterans and the enduring respect they hold in our community.

Front side of the monument featuring the Lax Kw’alaams veterans names, featuring a poppy design intertwined with the four main Crests and a central Moon design titled “Opza dip Ko’olt,” meaning “Lest We Forget,” by Artist Lianna Spence.

Back side of the monument features:
“In Flanders Fields,” poem by Lieutenant-Colonel John McCrae
A traditional warrior piece by Frederick Alexcee representing the Hereditary Chiefs (Left side)
“Our Peaceful Land,” by Betty Sampson represents the Matriarchs (Right Side)

From left to right: James Lawson, Mona Alexcee, Derry Bott – President of the Prince Rupert Legion, Marilyn Bryant – Lax Kw’alaams Wap Suwilaawksa Principal, Tommy Dennis, Joanne Finlay – Tsimshian Arts and Culture Society, Albert Scutt – Lax Kw’alaams Wap Suwilaawksa Vice Principal.

Unveiling the monument at Lax Kw’alaams Wap Suwilaawksa.

The Last Post played by Cameron Tait – Lax Kw’alaams Wap Suwilaawksa Band Teacher, and a blessing by Derry Bott – President of the Prince Rupert Legion and United Church Reverend.