Town of Conception Bay South Formally Dedicates LAV III Monument that Commemorates Canada’s Afghanistan Mission

On October 2, 2022, the Town of Conception Bay South hosted a dedication ceremony for the LAV III Monument, which recognizes the 40,000 Canadians Armed Forces who served in Afghanistan from 2001-2014 and commemorates the 162 Canadians who lost their lives. The LAV III Monument is a permanent community symbol of remembrance.

“This monument serves as a lasting tribute to Canadian troops who served in Afghanistan, some of whom are employees of the Town of Conception Bay South, and to their family members whose lives have been forever impacted. It honours the eleven fallen soldiers from our province who did not make it home from Afghanistan,” said Mayor Darrin Bent. “In 2011, our municipality was the first in Canada to sign a Veteran and Family Community Covenant as a pledge to support local veterans, military personnel, and their families, solidifying our commitment to the Canadian Armed Forces. Today, we show our continued support and appreciation for military service and sacrifice.”

Her Honour The Honourable Judy May Foote, Lieutenant Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, Brigadier-General Stéphane Masson, Commander 5th Canadian Division, Senator Elizabeth Marshall, as well as other invited guests were present for the important event.

The Town of Conception Bay South would like to thank members of the LAV III Dedication Committee, and to Kathleen Pratt LeGrow for making the acquisition of the monument possible.

“I feel very proud today to know that I have contributed in some way in honouring the men and women who served in Afghanistan and especially for those who sacrificed all. The LAV III Monument will stand as a tribute to those efforts and sacrifices and as a reminder that we will not forget,” said Kathleen Pratt LeGrow C.M., O.N.L., CD, B.A., LL.D, HCol (Ret’d).

About the LAV III Monument
Administered by Canada Company, the LAV III Monument Program was established to commemorate Canada’s mission in Afghanistan. Successful communities received full-size, decommissioned replica LAV III vehicles, provided by the Government of Canada, to be used as centerpieces for local monuments. Conception Bay South’s Monument was one of 33 to be dedicated in Canada, and the only one of its kind in Newfoundland and Labrador.