Dozens of motorcyclists revved their engines Saturday morning at the Hockey For All Centre in Headingley, kicking off the fourth-annual Manitoba Highway of Heroes Rally — a ride dedicated to honouring military personnel, first responders, and Indigenous veterans. Organized by the Manitoba Chapter of UN/NATO Veterans Canada, the rally follows a symbolic route along the Trans-Canada Highway, officially designated in 2012 as Manitoba’s Highway of Heroes. Riders made their way to Canadian Forces Base Shilo, where the Royal Canadian Artillery Museum hosted a lunch, silent auction and complementary tours. “This ride is about remembrance and support,” said Mark Goldade, president of the Manitoba chapter of UN/NATO Veterans Canada. “We’re raising funds for Homes for Heroes, which is building a veterans village in Winnipeg to help homeless veterans reintegrate into society.” Gérard Marcil-Dallaire, vice-president of the group said the rally also pays tribute to First Nations and Métis veterans and first responders. “It’s a great commemoration of their service,” he said. “We come together to support a cause that’s close to our hearts.” Last year’s rally raised more than $2,800 for the Homes for Heroes Foundation, which provides transitional housing and support services for veterans across Canada. This year’s proceeds will again go toward the planned Winnipeg Kinsmen Veterans Village, currently in the design phase. Goldade emphasized the importance of recognizing the sacrifices made by those who serve. “You don’t have to thank every veteran you see,” he said. “But appreciate what they’ve done. The life we live is because of them.”
