The Korea Veterans Association of Canada (KVA) embodies
the spirit of comradeship that was developed during the Korean War and the years
that followed.
KVA is comprised
primarily of members who served in the Canadian Armed Forces (Navy, Army, Air
Force) in Korea during the 1950-1953 war and on peacekeeping duties in Korea from
1953 to 1955. Korea veterans who served with United Nations Forces from other
countries as well as certain ancillary units are also eligible for membership
(see Membership
page).
At present there
are 50 branches (units) across Canada. Each unit elects its own executive and
most meet on a monthly basis except during the summer. KVA is divided geographically
into five regions – Atlantic, Quebec, Ontario, Prairie and Pacific. Each region
elects its own executive. At the national level the organization is governed by
the National Council. National Council is comprised of the National President,
National Vice-President, National Immediate Past President, five Regional
Presidents, and appointed National committee chairmen.
Biennial
national reunions (combined with a convention business meeting) are held in even-numbered
years. In recent years KVA national reunions have been held in Kitchener (2008),
Quebec City (2006), Toronto (2004), Edmonton (2002), Ottawa (2000), Winnipeg (1998),
Calgary (1996), Ottawa (1994), Victoria (1992).
Most
KVA regions meet annually or semi-annually and each unit within the regions hold
meetings and social events.
Encompassed
in the objectives of KVA are the welfare and concerns of Korean War veterans and
their families. Representation is frequently made to government departments and
other groups either directly or in conjunction with The Royal Canadian Legion
or the National Council of Veterans Associations, to protect the interests of
our members.