The park has had a long historical connection with the military. The park was used as a training ground for the local militia; a parade ground for thousands of soldiers stationed here during the Fenian scare of 1866; a marshaling ground for troops; a gathering place for troops before being sent off to war; a place for citizens to hold services to pray for the safe return of their family members; a place to celebrate when the soldiers first returned home from war; and a place to honour all those who served and sacrificed.
In October 1998, following a proposal by Mayor Mike Bradley, Sarnia City Council passed a motion endorsing that Victoria Park would be renamed “Veterans Park”, to reflect the history of the park and as a way to honour those who served. On Remembrance Day 1998, the park officially became known as Veterans Park.