Military members drop the puck to battle food insecurity

The Canadian Armed Forces took to the ice on the weekend, battling to raise money about active military members and support the food banks.

Intent on securing bragging rights for the next year, Canadian military members dropped the puck Sunday for the 6th Annual Army vs Navy Hockey Game.

Fans rolled into the Essex Centre Sports Complex to watch members of the HMCS (His Majesty’s Canadian Ship) Hunter naval reserves against local Canadian Armed Forces.

In organizing the game, HMCS Hunter Petty Officer Adam Mitchell says it’s a reminder of military members in the community.

“You think of the military, you think about something far away, you know, they’re off in wars, they’re off overseas. We’re part of your community or your neighbours, so everybody here is an active military member,” Mitchell said.

Ahead of the game, the teams honoured World Ward II veteran John Della Siega before officially dropping the puck.

For players on both sides, Mitchell says there’s a “healthy rivalry” that raises the stakes.

“Before the game, we’re comrades, you know, we’re friends, we’re allies. As soon as the puck drops, it’s a little bit of a different story,” he said.

Off the ice, the event encourages fans to arrive with a canned good to donate to the food bank in Essex.

“So, it’s been fantastic. I think last year we got about three pallets worth of food, so it’s great to give back to the community that, you know, has supported us so, so much,” Mitchell said.

Since its inception, Mitchell says the game has grown and has seen approximately 600 people in attendance in 2025.