Geoff Bennett: A Legacy of Adventure, Volunteerism, and Giving Back

H8788 Geoff Bennett (RMC 1971) has long understood that the strongest traditions at the Royal Military Colleges are carried forward by those who choose to give back. As the organizer behind La Chasse-Galerie, the memorable voyageur canoe fundraising initiative that brought graduates together in support of the CMC’s, Geoff helped transform camaraderie, adventure, and alumni pride into meaningful support for future generations of cadets.

Geoff’s connection to the Colleges is deeply personal. His father, 2435 Bob Bennett, RMC Class of 1939, served for many years as Adjutant of the Old Brigade and held a lasting affection for the College. After returning to Canada in 1999 following years abroad, Geoff decided to reconnect with RMC and honour his father’s memory in a way that reflected both family legacy and the spirit of the Colleges. He paddled solo from Ottawa to Kingston for Reunion Weekend, using the journey as a time to reflect on what RMC had meant to his family and to generations of graduates.

That journey sparked an idea. Passing Merrickville, Geoff saw a 36-foot canoe on the beach and imagined filling it with classmates for a collective paddle to RMC. But the trip needed a purpose. With the encouragement of classmates and supporters, the idea became La Chasse-Galerie—a fundraising journey rooted in fellowship, shared challenge, and service to the Colleges. What began as an inspired moment on the water grew into a beloved alumni initiative that helped raise significant support for athletics at RMC and later contributed to the creation and growth of the Danny McLeod Athletic Endowment Fund.

Through La Chasse-Galerie, Geoff helped show what alumni engagement can look like at its very best: graduates coming together not only to reconnect with one another, but to strengthen the experience of those who follow. The initiative combined adventure with purpose, raising awareness and funds while reinforcing the powerful sense of belonging that defines the CMC community.

For Geoff, the most meaningful part of giving back has always been supporting students and helping provide them with the best educational experience possible. He has often spoken about the role alumni play in providing what he describes as the “margin of excellence”, the additional support that enhances programs, opportunities, and experiences beyond what core funding can provide. It is a perspective grounded in gratitude, but also in responsibility: if graduates believe in the value of the Colleges, their visible and tangible support matters.

That same spirit continues today through Geoff’s support of Le Tour des Collèges, the cycling fundraiser led by 9143 Bruce McAlpine. Geoff and Bruce had paddled together on the Yukon River in 2024 when Bruce first raised the idea of a cross-Canada cycling fundraiser for the CMC’s. Geoff encouraged the vision while helping shape it into a more focused journey between the military colleges. From that conversation came Le Tour des Collèges, an initiative that carries forward the same sense of camaraderie, challenge, and purpose that made La Chasse-Galerie so meaningful.

Recently, Geoff once again demonstrated his commitment by making 14 individual donations to cyclists participating in Le Tour des Collèges in support of their fundraising efforts. It is a generous gesture, but also a fitting reflection of the way Geoff has supported alumni-led initiatives for many years: encouraging others, building momentum, and helping turn good ideas into meaningful impact.

Geoff’s contributions to the RMC Club, and now the Royal Military Colleges Alumni Association, have left a lasting mark. Through his leadership, generosity, and volunteer service, he has helped raise funds, preserve traditions, and strengthen the lifelong bonds among graduates. His example reminds us that alumni support is not only measured in dollars raised, but in the energy, encouragement, and commitment that inspire others to take part.

At its heart, Geoff Bennett’s story is one of loyalty; to family, to classmates, to the Colleges, and to the cadets who represent the next generation of leaders. From paddling to Reunion Weekend in honour of his father, to organizing La Chasse-Galerie, to supporting Bruce McAlpine and the cyclists of Le Tour des Collèges, Geoff has consistently found ways to turn personal connection into collective good.

The Alumni Association is grateful for Geoff’s continued leadership, volunteerism, and generosity. His contributions reflect the enduring spirit of Truth, Duty, Valour and the powerful difference graduates can make when they choose to give back.