Ontario cracks down on 'acts of stolen valour'

The Ontario government is condemning what it calls "stolen valour" - false claims about military service.- while at the same time introducing a new award for veterans who contribute to the community.

The Honouring Veterans Act, 2024 will expand recognition to living veterans for their service and contributions, in addition to those who gave their lives in the service of our country. The proposed Act also condemns any actions that disrespect veterans, including making false claims about military service, rank or medals received.

“Our government recognizes the extraordinary courage and significant sacrifices made by veterans across the province," said Graham McGregor, Minister of Citizenship and Multiculturalism. "Today, we express our unwavering gratitude by creating more opportunities to celebrate veterans’ service and formally recognize their contributions to our communities. Veterans deserve our utmost respect, which is why our government is also condemning those individuals who make false claims about military service which detracts from the honour of those who actively served their country.”

In a news release the Province says to ensure veterans are treated with dignity and respect, it is condemning any act that disrespects veterans, including committing the act of stolen valour when an individual makes false claims about military service. This includes the unlawful use of government-sanctioned medals, uniforms, and decorations. In addition to being a criminal offence under Section 419 of the Criminal Code, today’s proposed changes specifically condemn these acts. The Ministry of the Solicitor General will also promote enhanced awareness and enforcement of stolen valour.

Additionally, the government is honouring veterans by introducing a new award, in partnership with The Royal Canadian Legion – Ontario Provincial Command.

"This new award would be a first-of-its-kind provincial recognition in Ontario and will allow Ontario and Ontario Provincial Command to specifically celebrate veterans who have made significant contributions to their communities," says the release.

“The Royal Canadian Legion Branches of Ontario Provincial Command are excited to be working with the Government of Ontario to recognize veterans who were willing to sacrifice their lives to protect ours and to this day, continue to volunteer their services throughout the community,” said Derek Moore, president of The Royal Canadian Legion – Ontario Provincial Command.

The Honouring Veterans Act, 2024 also proposes renaming the Remembrance Week Act, 2016 to the Remembrance Day and Veterans’ Week Act, 2024 to expand recognition to all those who served, in addition to those who gave their lives. The proposed changes also include suggestions for various ways the public can honour veterans during this week.

Ontario is home to approximately 149,000 veterans and this number is growing. Each year, approximately 8,000 to 9,000 Canadian Armed Forces members are released from military service.

"Canadians enjoy the freedoms to live, work and prosper in large part due to the service of our Canadian Armed Forces. However, we know service can come at a cost and True Patriot Love works to support military members, veterans and their families at every stage of their journey," says CEO Nick Booth.