This annual game will honour men and women for their services with the Canadian Armed Forces while raising funds for the Calgary Military Family Resource Centre (CMFRC) and the official charity of the Canadian Armed Forces; Support our Troops. A special ceremonial puck delivery & drop will take place prior to the game with first Canadian Division Top Soldier - Major-General Alain Pelletier, Chief Warrant Officer Jean-Claude Parent and Acting Sub-Lieutenant Michelle Podorieszach.
"Hockey is not just a favourite pastime in Canada but a way to bring Canadians from across the country together through a passion for sport, talent and dedication." said Major-General Alain Pelletier, Commander 1 Canadian Air Division. "I am grateful that such a strong Canadian community has chosen to open their doors to Canadian Armed Forces members and express their support to those who serve their country every day and share similar commitments. Thank you to the Calgary Flames for hosting this important event and for their continued support. It is a privilege to serve our fellow Canadians and to see the pride that they have in their Armed Forces."
The evening will begin with an on-ice drive on of a Military G-Wagon and Harvey the Hound. All Canadian Armed Forces members in uniform will receive a 25% discount at all FanAttic locations at the Scotiabank Saddledome and 10% off cresting, jerseys and memorabilia. Parking fees will also be waived for all military personnel attending the game in uniform.
The team will wear commemorative Canadian Armed Forces jerseys during warmup, which will be auctioned off following the game at www.calgaryflames.com/CAFjerseys Limited edition Calgary Flames military caps and apparel will be for sale at FanAttic locations with proceeds to be directed to Support Our Troops and CMFRC. The Calgary Flames Foundation will also donate a portion of the proceeds from the evening's 50/50 sales. Fans in attendance will also be able to purchase food hampers for donation on the concourse behind Section 223 to benefit the Veterans Association Food Bank ahead of the holiday season.
"This is a night we look forward to every year." said CSEC President and Chief Executive Officer, John Bean. "It's a great opportunity for our organization and our fans to say thank you and to create more awareness of the sacrifices our service people and their families make that allow us to enjoy the freedom and liberties of our beautiful country. Thank you to our season-ticket holders for their continued support of the Canadian Armed Forces and this initiative."
The majority of in-game elements will have a distinct Canadian Armed Forces tie-in. The Support our Troops yellow ribbon decal will be on all Flames players' helmets as well as event rink boards in honour of those who serve and have served. Following the conclusion of the game uniformed military personnel will be welcomed onto the ice where they will receive the opportunity to have a post-game group photo with the team. Since the start of the Canadian Armed Forces Appreciation Game over $200,000 has been directed to Support our Troops and the CMFRC.
