Every two weeks, Canadian Armed Forces veterans gather at the Royal Canadian Legion in Manotick, a rural part of south Ottawa. These “Buddy Check Coffee” meetings encourage camaraderie among veterans, allowing them to share their military experiences in a relaxed atmosphere. Melanie Woolley, a Navy veteran and frequent attendee, emphasized the importance of these gatherings for veterans who want to connect casually rather than in a therapeutic setting.
Creating a Community for Veterans
The Buddy Check Coffee meetings are organized by the legion’s operational stress injury section, creating an inclusive space for military veterans. Woolley noted that such informal interactions are crucial, especially in a community where social spaces for veterans are limited.
- Location: Royal Canadian Legion, Manotick
- Frequency: Every second Wednesday
- Audience: Exclusively for military veterans
Connecting Generations of Veterans
During a recent meeting, participants reflected on the significance of Remembrance Day, marking the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War. Several attendees shared personal stories about family members who served. Terry Hunter, a veteran from the Canadian Armed Forces, expressed a desire to include more veterans in these gatherings, acknowledging that many refrain from joining the Royal Canadian Legion for various reasons.
Richard Townsend, a veteran with 25 years of service in both the army and air force, highlighted the friendships formed during these coffee meetings. He remarked on the importance of staying connected, sharing laughter, and recalling fond memories from their military time.
Safe Space for Discussion
While the meetings encourage dialogue, verbal participation is optional. Woolley emphasized that the goal is to provide a comfortable environment for veterans, especially those dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). She affirmed that veterans experience similar mental and physical challenges during their service, creating an innate bond that outsiders may not understand.
Welcoming All Veterans
Organizers of the Buddy Check Coffee meetings are open to all military veterans, including those not affiliated with the Manotick legion. These informal gatherings mirror similar programs across Canada, reinforcing the idea that connecting with fellow veterans can enhance quality of life.
Woolley concluded with a hopeful message: “If it helps even one person, if it saves a life, if it improves a quality of life, then it’s worth it.”
