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Wounded Warriors to arrive today in P.A.

Jul 28, 2016 | 12:00 PM

A group of veterans will receive some well-earned rest and relaxation, while raising awareness for post-traumatic stress and related disorders

The Wounded Warriors Weekend officially gets started as the cavalcade of special guests makes its way from Saskatoon to Nipawin on Thursday, July 28.

Blake Emmonds, co-chair and founder of the event, said the weekend is meant to honour veterans, emergency workers or first responders, as well as their families.

“Families ultimately pay the price for PTSD,” Emmonds said. “This is our way to give back to those families who have sacrificed so much for all of us.

The 200-strong procession which includes members from each branch of the military, their families, as well as members of police, fire and paramedic departments from across Canada and the United States, will make stops in communities to say thanks to supporters and continue to raise awareness for post-traumatic stress disorder and its residual effects.

As of Thursday morning, Emmonds said, one guest from the U.K would also be attending this year’s festivities which include outdoor activities like golf and fishing, as well as rest and relaxation in some of Canada’s finest wilderness.

The parade is scheduled to arrive in Prince Albert at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, for an official welcoming from Mayor Greg Dionne at the Legion. The party will then continue on to Nipawin for the formal start to the weekend. This year’s event will be made extra special as the provincial legislature designated Wounded Warriors Weekend and official civic holiday.

The event wraps up on Monday.

 

shane.oneill@panow.com

On Twitter: @stroneill