Each year, at the Annual Carr Harris Cup provides a proud opportunity to celebrate the dedication and generosity of Royal Military Colleges alumni—and this year’s recognition shines especially bright on the Class of 1980. On behalf of the RMC Alumni Association Board of Directors, staff, and the Naval and Officer Cadets of the Military Colleges, it is with great pride that we recognize the Class of 1980 as the recipients of the Battle of the Classes Championship Plaque for their remarkable five‑peat victory in 2025.
The achievements of the Class of 1980 are nothing short of extraordinary. Since 2021, the class has raised more than $400,000 through the Battle of the Classes challenge, including an impressive $90,000 in 2025 alone. Their leadership and commitment were instrumental in surpassing the Association’s fundraising target of $350,000, helping to achieve a remarkable total of $435,000 raised in support of the Canadian Military Colleges.
In addition to their fundraising leadership, the Class of 1980 has demonstrated a deep commitment to preserving Canadian military history through the Light Armoured Vehicle (LAV) Generation III project. As part of their entry into the Old Brigade, the class donated a LAV III monument, commemorating the service and sacrifice of Canadian Armed Forces members and RMC alumni who served during the Afghanistan War (2001–2014).
Building on this legacy, the Class of 1980 is enhancing the monument with a state‑of‑the‑art digital exhibition, designed to share personal stories, historical context, and educational content. Fully funded by class donations, the exhibition will be accessible on site and will serve as a lasting resource for visitors and students, ensuring that the experiences and contributions of those who served continue to be remembered by future generations. More information can be found here: https://rmc80lav.ca/en/
Year after year, the plaque presentation at the Annual Carr Harris Cup serves as a moment to reflect on the impact alumni can make. Their sustained support strengthens programs, enhances cadet life, and ensures that the values at the heart of the Military Colleges continue to thrive.
The Class of 1980 continues to set the benchmark for committed community‑minded alumni leadership. Their generosity inspires fellow alumni and directly benefits the next generation of Naval and Officer Cadets who will carry these traditions forward.
With gratitude and admiration, we congratulate the Class of 1980 on their outstanding achievements and thank them for building a legacy that truly goes far beyond the plaque.
The Class of 1980 was represented by Shirley Gunter and Paul Fleet, Leslie Guyatt and Steve Woodland and Peter and Sue-Ellen Johnston. RMC Alumni Association Staff Member Riley Jessup presented the award to the Class.