Veterans’ biennial convention returns to Quebec for the first time in over 50 years
By William Crooks
Local Journalism Initiative
For the first time in over 50 years, Sherbrooke will play host to the 56th biennial convention of the Army, Navy, and Airforce Veterans in Canada (ANAVETS), an event set to bring together approximately 153 delegates from across the country. The convention will take place from Sept. 6 to 11 at the Delta Hotel in Sherbrooke, and according to ANAVETS Dominion Command Vice President Linda Caron, the gathering is a milestone for Quebec.
In an interview with The Record on Aug. 15, Caron described the significance of the event for the province, as the last time the convention was held in Quebec was either in 1970 or 1972. “We don’t have the exact time because it’s way, way archived,” she said, but emphasized that it had been over 52 years.
She further noted that the ANAVETS association itself dates back even further, to 1840 when it was founded by Queen Victoria in Montreal. The event will see representation from ANAVETS units across the country, from Prince Edward Island to British Columbia, as well as international guests from the United States.
Caron’s personal journey to bring the convention to Quebec began in 2018 when she led the bid to host the event in Sherbrooke. Recalling her experience, she shared, “I stood there and I fought for them to come to Quebec.” The emotional significance of the victory was clear, with Caron admitting that it was not an easy battle. Nevertheless, Caron persisted, and despite the event being postponed due to COVID-19, she is now overjoyed to see it finally taking place this year.
The convention will serve as a vital opportunity for veterans and their families to access crucial services and resources. As outlined in a detailed email from ANAVETS Unit #318, booths at the event will feature organizations such as Veterans Affairs, which will provide information on benefits and services, and the Veterans Review and Appeal Board, which will be available to answer questions about the appeals process for disability claims.
