A Windsor veteran is once again inviting local veterans to come together for an afternoon of camaraderie, appreciation and connection on the Detroit River. The second annual Veteran Day Sail is set for Friday, Oct. 9, aboard Windsor Premier Cruises. Organizer Natalie Bourgoin, a local veteran, says the event is about recognizing veterans beyond Remembrance Day. “It’s about honouring those that have served, just giving them a day where they can feel appreciated and seen, recognized for all they’ve done, all that they’ve sacrificed,” Bourgoin said. The free event runs from 1 to 3 p.m., with boarding between noon and 12:30 p.m. Bourgoin says the response to last year’s inaugural sail showed there was an appetite for more opportunities for veterans to connect. “Being on board and walking amongst them and hearing the conversations and seeing them make new friendships and sharing the space with like-minded individuals and similar experiences, it was such a beautiful experience,” she said. Joe Claus, a veteran who attended last year, said the event provided an opportunity for veterans to reconnect and share stories. “It was just how great it was to be together again,” Claus said. “It’s just nice to see fellow veterans, my wife’s a veteran as well. She served 10 years. So it’s just nice to kind of get together and reminisce. Tell war stories.” Claus said the event also helps strengthen connections among veterans who regularly see one another at local memorial events. “I think it’s great. A super great idea,” he said. “It really ties our group together and gets the word out about all of our veterans.” The cruise has room for up to 180 people, according to Bourgoin, with last year’s event drawing roughly half that capacity. This year’s event will include a catered lunch sponsored by Hunter Express, with roast beef, roasted potatoes, salad and pasta. Door prizes will also be offered. Bourgoin says some veterans who attended last year have continued to stay in touch, while others have reached out hoping the event would return. “Some are sick, some are celebrating a birthday the day of,” she said. “But it’s beautiful to have it happen again and have a day of enjoyment and relaxation and appreciation.” Claus is encouraging other veterans to register. “They need to come down here for sure for the ninth,” he exclaimed. “You’re not going to regret it. The food is awesome. Everything. It’s just an awesome thing to do.” Veterans can RSVP to Bourgoin at 519-995-9453. The event is free for veterans.
