Hi, I’m Margaret, Executive Director of the Veterans Memorial Highway Association. I’ve spent my adult life living and working in small-town Alberta, surrounded by the stories of our veterans — people who fought for the freedoms we enjoy every day.

This project is especially close to my heart. My father-in-law served in the Canadian military, and my grandfather also served. I’ve seen firsthand the pride, the sacrifice, and the quiet strength of those who wear the uniform — and of the families who stand behind them.

Our highway was named in honour of our veterans, but we believe their sacrifices deserve to be seen, remembered, and celebrated by everyone who travels this route.

That’s why we’re launching a project to install memorial benches, commemorative banners, and interpretive signs along Veterans Memorial Highway (Highway 36 and 881). At each rest stop, travellers will find a place to sit, reflect, and remember the heroes who served our country. Along the roadway, banners will proudly display our gratitude, reminding all who pass through Eastern Alberta of the courage and sacrifice of these men and women.

We’re raising $35,000 to bring this vision to life. This funding will help us purchase and install 32 memorial benches and 20 commemorative banners across 16 rest stops along the highway. Each memorial will stand as a permanent tribute — a quiet space to reflect, a public statement of gratitude, and a visible reminder that freedom was never free.

I’ve spoken with so many families, veterans, and community members who want to see more recognition along the highway. This project isn’t just for those who served — it’s for their families, their stories, and the next generation who need to understand the legacy they left us.

We can’t do it alone. We need your help to make it happen.

Every donation, big or small, will help us honour our veterans in a visible and lasting way. Your contribution will help build memorials that remind every visitor and local traveller that our heroes are not forgotten.

Please donate today — and help us honour their sacrifice by building these spaces of remembrance along Veterans Memorial Highway. And if you can’t give today, please share this campaign to help us reach others who care.

Thank you for standing with us.