Article submitted by Major (Ret’d) Kent Smerdon, CD (#9719 – Class of ’73)
Last fall, I woke up in the middle of the night with my mind going in several unexpected directions. One of those paths led me to think about flags, banners, colours, and insignia. I can’t explain why. What began as a passing thought quickly became a deeper reflection on veterans and how—or whether—we are publicly recognized once our service ends.
The next morning, I began researching veteran symbols in Canada and came to a realization that surprised me: Canada’s military veterans do not have a single unifying flag, emblem, or symbol that identifies them as veterans to the public at large.
According to the 2021 Census, more than 460,000 veterans live in Canada today. There are close to 80 veterans’ organizations across the country, many organized around specific units, branches, trades, or specialties. Those affiliations matter deeply, and veterans are rightly proud of them. But regardless of squadron, battalion, ship, or service branch, once we are released from uniform, we all share one thing in common—we are veterans.
At present, there is no universally recognizable emblem that identifies veterans year‑round. Baseball caps or T‑shirts bearing military insignia are commonly worn, but these items can be purchased and worn by anyone. Service pins and decorations exist, but they are often only understood by fellow veterans. Many who served honourably for fewer than 12 years may take great pride in their service, yet have little to visibly mark it beyond a certificate or a CFOne card.
On Remembrance Day and during other commemorative events, we wear our medals, fly the Canada Flag, unit colours, branch banners, and the poppy. These are powerful moments of recognition and remembrance. But once the ceremonies conclude on November 11, much of that visibility disappears for another year. Veterans, once again, largely fade from public view.
This led me to consider whether there is a need for a simple, respectful, and inclusive emblem that publicly identifies veterans—one that can be worn or displayed year‑round by those who choose to do so. I believe there is.
The Design
In developing the proposed flag and lapel pin, symbolism and simplicity were essential considerations. Permission was sought from the Department of Canadian Heritage to use the stylized 11‑point maple leaf, and that permission was granted. I also sought advice from two of Canada’s heralds, both of whom emphasized the importance of clarity and restraint in any design that might one day have national scope.
The design incorporates the following elements:
- Red background: symbolizing courage, sacrifice, and the bloodshed of both wounded veterans and the fallen, using the same red as Canada’s national flag
- White elements: representing peace, purity, and the snows of Canada
- The letter “V”: signifying Veteran in both official languages, as well as valour / vaillance
- Red maple leaf: representing the nation of Canada
- White maple leaf surrounding the red: reflecting the role veterans have played in defending Canada’s borders
- Three contact points with the “V”: representing the traditional naval, land, and air branches
- Solid white foundation: symbolizing the Rock of Newfoundland and Labrador in the east, the Canadian Shield, and the Rocky Mountains in the west
- Upper tip of the maple leaf: touching the top of the flag to represent Canada’s territory extending to the top of the globe
The design has been registered with the Canadian Intellectual Property Office.
Looking Ahead
My hope is that this flag could one day be recognized as a national symbol for all of Canada’s military veterans, and that November might be designated as National Military Veterans Month. Ideally, the flag could be flown voluntarily at Parliament Hill, government buildings, schools, businesses, and other locations during that time.
If the initiative proceeds, related items such as flags and lapel pins could be made available on a strictly non‑profit basis, with any proceeds directed toward veterans’ needs and causes. The lapel pin would be intended for wear by veterans and, in certain cases, by the family members of fallen veterans.
I had the opportunity to share the flag and its concept at a veterans’ social gathering last Christmas. The response was deeply moving—there was a standing ovation, and more than a few tears. Since then, I have received letters and messages from veterans expressing strong personal support for the idea.
When people ask whether the design reflects the diversity of our veterans, my view is simple: in the most fundamental sense, you are either a Canadian military veteran or you are not. That shared experience, regardless of background or role, is what this emblem is intended to represent.
Final Thoughts
I believe this concept is long overdue. My vision is that this flag—worn as a lapel pin or displayed publicly—would say, in a dignified and respectful way: “I served Canada in uniform.” I would like to see the day when Canadians across the country recognize what that symbol means, who wears it, and why.
Many causes and communities in Canada are represented by flags, symbols, and designated months of recognition. Veterans are largely recognized on a single day each year. I believe we can do better, and I hope this proposal contributes to that conversation.
The RMC Alumni Association is providing this article to inform members of an initiative brought forward by an individual veteran. Inclusion in eVeritas does not constitute endorsement or support of the proposal, but reflects the Association’s intent to share information of interest to its membership.
I love the design and meaning of this flag. It represents all of us, including those of us who served briefly after RMC, choosing to pursue careers of service in relams other than the military.
Hi Eric. Kind words. Thank you. The whole idea revolves around needed vet recognition on days other than Nov 11th. Stay tuned.
Wow! Kent, I’m in awe. What an amazing initiative. I hope this comes to fruition, and as you say, becomes a nationally recognized symbol proudly worn by veterans. I know I’ll wear it!
Hi John!
Many thanks for your support and kind words. Stay tuned! It’s sure keeping me off the streets!
Letters of support can be sent to [email protected]
Cheers
Kent
Well done Kent!!! This idea is long overdue and I look forward to wearing the lapel pins with pride once they are made available to Canada’s Veterans. Well done.
Hi Bill. Many thanks and especially to you and Monika for stepping up to help with this effort.
Thanks – an elegant and powerful representation!
Hello Matt. Thank you. One of the Heralds I consulted about the design described it as “powerful and evocative”.
High praise!
Great idea Kent, well done. J’appuie totalement cette initiative. Please let me know if I can help in any way; I especially like the idea of military Veterans’ month: long overdue. 10966
Merci Michel. You and any fellow supporters are more than welcome to draft letters of support in your own words addressed to the Minister of VA and copy your MPs. To take this idea to the top, we need all the support we can get.
All letters can be sent to;
[email protected]
Agee with your design and all the attached comments.. 32 years of service.. RMC class of 59
Another day which honours Canadian naval veterans is Battle of Atlantic Sunday, the first Sunday in May. That would be another opportunity to display the wonderful symbols you have created.
Merci Renaud!
Very well done Kent! Like all innovative ideas, it always seems simple after someone else not only thinks it but also takes action. You are doing all Canadian Veterans a solid with your project. Much like your football days at RMC, keep on plowing through when you meet the inevitable challenges that accompany the realization of any goal. Bravo Zulu!
Feel free to contact me if you need any Vancouver Island assistance.
Hi Don!
Great to hear from you out on the Green Coast. Thank you much for your kind words and support.
This thing might be fun!
You can reach me anytime at
[email protected]
Cheers
Kent
Hi Don!
Great to hear from you. All well here in Barrie (when it isn’t snowing!)
Thank you for very your kind words and offer of support. Feel free to contact me anytime at
[email protected]
Cheers!
Kent
Kent:
A most excellent idea. Can’t wait to purchase a 3×6 flag to fly from my home flag pole for the month of November each year.
Hi Darren
My thanks
Eventually, the flags should be available through veteran kit shops.
Cheers
Kent
A great initiative, one worthy of my hearty personal support.
Thank you Douglas
Letters of support can be sent to [email protected]
I look forward to wearing that lapel pin!! #7402.
Thank you!!
Thank you David;
We are getting quotes for the pins as we speak. But this is all new and could be a long process.
Letters of support can be sent to [email protected]
Great idea, long overdue! The design and colour are perfect and it’s simplicity will encourage reproduction, by youths to come, I hope! I, for one, will help promote its adoption.
Thank you Don
We are briefing the RCAFA BOD tonight requesting official endorsement and funding assistance.
You can reach me or send letters of support (or donate via etransfer) at [email protected]
Cheers
Kent