Howard Elson has experienced his fair share of action and adventure over the years. He often reflects about the events that have shaped his journey through life.

Mr. Elson served 31 years with the Canadian Army's artillery division, with postings all over Canada and even along the Rhine river in Germany. After an accident in 1979 while working with the 155mm artillery shells left Mr. Elson with a permanent back injury, he left the Army to recover.

He didn't let his injury stop him from pursuing a number of different opportunities after his service, including many years working as a training officer for the Canadian Rangers, as well as a security guard for a mining company in Labrador.

Discovering the Veterans Independence Program

At 78 years young, Mr. Elson now receives support through the Veterans Independence Program, such as snow removal services and regular assistance around his Nova Scotia home. 'I didn't know about Veterans Affairs when I released,' Mr. Elson recalls. 'I only found out in 1996!'

He encourages any Veteran who feels they might benefit from the program to apply. 'By all means, look into it. I've been happy with what the program has to offer, and it's always easy to get answers if ever I have questions.'

If you'd like to know more about what this program can do for you, please visit the Veterans Independence Program Web site.

'By all means, look into it. I've been happy with what the program has to offer, and it's always easy to get answers if ever I have questions'.