We Still Serve S1:E1: Valour In the Presence of the Enemy – An Exclusive

‘We Still Serve’ features guests who are or have previously served in the Armed Forces and are still serving our veteran
community through their current endeavours and initiatives.
In this episode, retired CSM Bart Womack hosts an intimate exclusive conversation and interview with former Chief of
Defence Staff, General (ret’d) Rick Hillier. One of Canada’s former top military commanders is helping to lead a push to
award deserving veterans of combat in the Afghanistan war with Canada’s highest military honour — the Victoria Cross.
In the interview, Hillier notes that there are dozens of files and events worthy of review, including some that merit
conferring Bravery Medals, up-to-and-including the Canadian Victoria Cross. As examples, he recounts the battlefield
actions of 3 Canadians: WWI — Francis “Peggy” Pegahmagabow, WWII + Korea — Tommy Prince, Afghanistan — Jess
Larochelle.
A few weeks after filming, our show host revisited the discussion with Hillier following a ‘Shots with Soldiers’ livestream.
On the anniversary of the Truth and Reconciliation report, they raised their glasses to honour indigenous soldiers who
fought for the right to fight for Canada.
“To our indigenous soldiers in their never-ending battle.
And to a better future for all of us, inclusive of them”
-Rick Hillier
The episode aims to increase awareness about the grassroots campaign to revise the policies and practices related to
Decorations, Honours, Medals, and Awards for the Canadian Forces, and closes with a call to action to amplify public
engagement and support.