Mr. Ernest “Boots” Boutilier is a Veteran of the Canadian Armed Forces having served in peacekeeping missions. He has been a member of the John Gardam (Ottawa) Branch of the Canadian Association of Veterans in United Nations Peacekeeping (CAVUNP) for the past 24 years and has acted as the Sergeant-at-Arms for 15 years. As Sergeant-at-Arms, he has had a leadership role in the annual Peacekeepers’ Day ceremonies, which are held at the National Peacekeeping Memorial in Ottawa.
Mr. Boutilier organizes the Colour Party for United Nations Veterans for their funeral services. He has participated in the Wreaths Across Canada initiative since its inception, providing escort to foreign military attachés. He has organized the CAVUNP display to explain peacekeeping to Ottawa school children as well as to Encounters with Canada participants. Mr. Boutilier organizes local fundraising activities, manages the Branch’s kit shop and maintains Branch property such as flags, insignias and other items for purchase. Mr. Boutilier participates in the annual national Remembrance Day service on November 11 and takes part in vigils.