History of the Army Navy Air Force in Canada

The A.N.A.F Veterans in Canada hold the proud distinction of being the oldest veterans’ organization in the country.  The Association’s history is closely identified with the Canadian tradition.

 Documentary evidence shows that the organization was in existence in 1840 under the title of Army and Navy Veterans, and it is reasonable to believe that units of the association were active before that date.  Membership in the earliest units was recruited from the ranks of veterans of the War of 1812-1814 and migrating veterans of the Navy and Wellington’s Army.  So it is possible to assume that some form of organization was in existence even as early as 1812.  The first actual record of the Army and Navy Veterans in Canada indicates its existence in the City of Montreal in 1840 and that date is arbitrarily accepted as the time of its founding.  In consequence, the Association celebrated its 100th Birthday in 1940.

 From 1812 to 1871 the Imperial Government kept a garrison in Canada for defense against the possibility of an American Invasion.  Many of these soldiers left the service to become settlers but retained affiliation with the Army and Navy Veterans.  Similarly, many young Canadians took commissions in the Imperial Army and served a connecting link between the service of Canada and England.

 Soldiers who served in various campaigns abroad, such as the India Mutiny in 1858, the Fenian raids of 1866 and 1870, the Red River Rebellion of 1869-1870, and the North West Rebellion of 1885 produced not only pride in the military achievements of Canadians but a sense of comradeship grew always increasing membership in the oldest of all Canadian Veterans organization.

 During the South African War, Canada had in service nearly 9,000 men, probably half of who served in South Africa, but most of who comprised the bulk of the membership of the Army and Navy Veterans up to the time of World War I. In that grave crisis members of the organization were foremost in volunteering their services and in recruiting activities.  From the ranks of those who served in 1914-1918 came strength of purpose and achievement and the greatest increase in numerical strength in the organization’s history.

 The activities of the Association in World War II are of recent memory. Added to the numbers of those who served in the Army and Navy from the outbreak of the hostilities to the eventual collapse of Germany and Japan, was the very contingent which fought in the Royal Canadian Air Force.  By Act of Parliament passed in 1946 the name of the association was changed to Army, Navy and Air Force Veterans in Canada.

 The change in name, the vast increase in numbers, a wide range of action and a national influence and outlook have in no way changed the character of the aims of the Army, Navy and Air Force Veterans in Canada.  That has always been, is and will always continue to be a deep concern for the welfare of all veterans and the furtherance of the best interest in all Canadians.

History about Valour Unit 393

The Army, Navy & Air Force Veterans in Canada is a non-profit Canadian ex-service organization (veterans' organization) founded in 1840, with more than 18,000 members throughout Canada. Your support allows us to keep the doors open and continue supporting our local veterans. Whether you’re looking for live entertainment, a watering hole to meet for a few drinks with friends, a place to toss the odd dart at the board, or simply meet new people, Unit 393 is the place for you.   

Valour Unit 393 is an active ANAVET unit, that held its grand opening in 1985.  Our objectives are to provide assistance and support to veterans and their families, to members of the Canadian Armed Forces, and to our community. 

We have a current membership of 104 active members and always welcome anyone who would like to join. 

 The unit continues to support the veterans at Parkwood Hospital Western County Wings, and supports many other charitable organizations some of which include; The Boys and Girls Club, Child Can, The Canadian Cancer Society and the War Amps. 

 Valour Unit 393 is a member’s organization that depends on fundraising activities throughout the year. Members and others enjoy the many activities and social events throughout the year such as our annual golf tournament, monthly progressive euchre, St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, Oktoberfest, Christmas potluck dinner, Leve Day and many more. 

 We have an open-door policy and welcome anyone who wishes to stop by and see what we are all about. 

If you enjoy your time at our club, why not consider becoming a member? You don’t have to be a member to frequent the club or to join us for one of our many events. 

Be sure to follow the link "events" on our site for event information, hours, and everything else you need to know, and feel free to drop us a line if you have any questions.