Hello!

I can’t believe it’s less than a month til Christmas! I was reminded by John and Janet Robinson, IOFF participants from Regina who are profiled in this issue.

Thanks for taking the time to catch up on IOFF’s latest developments.

Over the past month, interest in IOFF has taken off! We’ve been profiled in newspapers, on TV, and radio shows, including CBC. On November 18th, IOFF received a standing ovation in Ontario’s Provincial Legislature!

IOFF has received more sponsorships and has applied for grants from Veteran Affairs’ Commemorative Partnership and Guelph’s Community Program.

IOFF has also applied for legal status as a not-for-profit charity.

Peter is working hard in the Netherlands to finalize our arrangements including licenses, permits, and protocols. He’s received overwhelming support and many Dutch have contacted us volunteering their help.

The Canadian-Dutch friendship is special!

With 150 days to go, guarantee your place in IOFF’s once-in-a lifetime event by booking NOW, before it’s too late!

Karen Hunter, on behalf of The IOFF Team

“What if I can’t book until the new year?”

I know some of you can’t book your vacation time yet. Our December 31st deadline doesn’t mean you can’t book after that date. But, after Dec.31st, IOFF can’t guarantee you a place. We hope to negotiate an extension, but due to the huge number of travellers in the NL in May 2020, we don’t know if we’ll be successful. So, if at all possible, 

book now.

What about your ideas?

The beauty of IOFF is that it is what we make it. Like most things in life, we get out of it what we put into it. And, I can always use your help!

Do you have an idea for something we can do to make IOFF “extra special”? 

Perhaps you know of a way to get the word out about IOFF? (I work on that 24/7 but have a long way to go!) Maybe you know a company who might sponsor us?

(More money equals more opportunities!)

IOFF is a veteran remembrance initiative, an experiential event that is the first of its kind. It’s a community effort and all ideas are welcome. If two heads are better than one,

then 200 heads are even better! 

Meet John & Janet

“John and I are really looking forward to walking in my father’s footsteps.”

Janet’s father spent significant time in the Netherlands as part of The 8th Reconnaissance Regiment (14th Canadian Hussars), commonly known as the “8 Recce”, based in Swift Current Saskatchewan. The regiment was the reconnaissance arm of the 2nd Canadian Infantry Division.

“I had wanted to attend the 50th anniversary, but had two small children then. So when I heard about IOFF, I knew I had to do it. I have a number of friends who have walked the Camino but, for me, this pilgrimage will be much more meaningful.”

What’s your story? We’d love to share it! Email IOFF at:

inourfathersfootstepsevent@gmail.com