Marking 35 Years Since the End of the Gulf War

On March 3, 2026, the National Military Cemetery of Canada at Beechwood Cemetery served as the national gathering place to commemorate the 35th anniversary of the end of the Gulf War.

Thirty-five years earlier, on March 3, 1991, a ceasefire came into effect, bringing an end to active combat operations. For Canada, that moment represented more than the conclusion of a conflict. It marked a defining chapter in our modern military history, one that demonstrated the strength, professionalism, and capability of the Canadian Armed Forces on the world stage.

More than 4,000 Canadians served during the Gulf War under Operations FRICTION, SCIMITAR, and SCALPEL. Canada contributed naval forces in the Persian Gulf, CF-18 fighter aircraft, and highly respected medical teams. Our service members operated within a multinational coalition to liberate Kuwait and uphold international law.

The anniversary ceremony brought together veterans of that conflict, serving members of the Canadian Armed Forces, representatives of Veterans Affairs Canada, members of the diplomatic corps, including the Embassy of Kuwait, and families whose lives were shaped by the deployment.

The morning began with an acknowledgment that Beechwood stands on the unceded, unsurrendered Territory of the Anishinaabe Algonquin Nation. Remembrance in Canada is grounded in place, and place carries history. 

The sound of the Last Post echoed across the cemetery grounds as flags were lowered. Two minutes of silence followed — a pause that allowed reflection to take precedence over protocol. The Rouse signalled renewal, and the Lament carried the emotional weight of the moment. Wreaths were laid on behalf of Canada, the Canadian Armed Forces, Veterans Affairs Canada, the State of Kuwait, coalition allies, and the Persian Gulf Veterans of Canada. Each wreath represented service, partnership, and sacrifice.

The Honourable Jill McKnight, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence, offered remarks recognizing the service of Gulf War veterans and the continued importance of supporting them and their families.

She was followed by Harold Davis, Master Corporal (Retired), CD, President of the Persian Gulf Veterans of Canada, who spoke from personal experience -  reminding those present that beyond operations and timelines are individuals whose lives were permanently shaped by their service. The Act of Remembrance, read by Mike McGlennon, Warrant Officer (Retired), CD, Vice President of the Persian Gulf Veterans of Canada reinforced the solemn purpose of the gathering.

The Gulf War marked a modern turning point for the Canadian Armed Forces. It reaffirmed Canada’s ability to operate effectively within complex multinational coalitions. It strengthened defence relationships. It influenced how Canada would approach future international operations. But beyond strategy and doctrine, this anniversary was about people. It was about those who deployed far from home in defence of collective security. It was about families who carried the uncertainty of service. It was about veterans who continue to live with the experience of that conflict 35 years later.

At Beechwood, remembrance is not symbolic. It is sustained. It is structured. It is intentional.

• To those who served - we thank you.
• To families -  we recognize your sacrifice.
• To those no longer with us -  we remember.

Thirty-five years later, the commitment remains unchanged: To Honour. To Remember. To Never Forget.