Dr. Jason Willis Michael Kelly has spent over a decade enhancing the quality of life for Canadian Veterans through his exceptional fundraising efforts, community leadership and unwavering commitment to remembrance.
As a dedicated member of the Hong Kong Veterans Commemorative Association (HKVCA) for 13 years, Jason has worked tirelessly to honour and advocate for Canadian Hong Kong Veterans, both locally and internationally. This longstanding commitment has included representing the HKVCA at commemorative events in Hong Kong, supporting efforts connected to the Defence of Hong Kong Memorial Wall in Ottawa, and travelling across Canada, from Calgary to Halifax, to personally meet and honour all living Canadian Defence of Hong Kong Veterans. His efforts have helped preserve their legacy and ensure their sacrifices are remembered.
Jason has also been an active member of The Royal Canadian Legion (RCL) for 15 years. Through his home branch, RCL Branch 641 Barrhaven, he has supported the annual Poppy Campaign and led major fundraising initiatives. Notably, he spearheaded the campaign to replace the branch’s central air conditioning, ensuring the building’s long-term sustainability. He also oversaw the installation of a permanent HKVCA display at Branch 614 honouring Canadian Veterans who served in the Battle of Hong Kong. Separately, Jason established the charitable framework that enabled RCL Branch 314 to build the Manotick Remembrance Park. Thanks to his leadership in fundraising, community outreach and donor engagement, the park now stands as a serene and meaningful space for honouring Veterans and connecting the community to its military heritage.
Jason’s commitment extends to supporting military families. Through earlier volunteer work with the Military Family Resource Centre, he played a major role in organizing and managing the Victory Ball, securing sponsorships and raising vital funds to support military families with essential services and resources.
Through his work with the Order of St. George, Jason has actively participated in initiatives that recognize and support Veterans, including ceremonies at the Perley Rideau Veterans Health Centre, where he has helped ensure Veterans are honoured with dignity and respect.
This same commitment to service has also been reflected in his leadership of several high-impact fundraising events benefiting organizations such as Courageous Companions, which provides service dogs to Veterans, and the Royal Ottawa Hospital Foundation with a focus on PTSD and mental health support. His expertise in event planning and volunteer coordination has made a tangible difference in the lives of countless Veterans.
In 2023, Jason participated in the commemorative activities of Operation Husky, joining Veterans, families and military enthusiasts from around the world in marches, ceremonies and wreath-laying events to honour those who served in the Italian Campaign.
Dr. Jason Willis Michael Kelly’s tireless dedication, leadership and deep understanding of the importance of remembrance have made him a powerful force for good in the Veteran community. His work continues to inspire, uplift and ensure that the sacrifices of Canada’s military members are never forgotten.