The military here in North Bay and across Canada and the U.S. are being celebrated at Memorial Gardens later this week.

The ninth annual Nipissing Lakers Military Appreciation game against RMC goes Saturday January 27th at 7:30 pm.

Nipissing’s men’s hockey team will be wearing special camoflage jerseys that will be auctioned off after the game, with proceeds going to the North Bay Military Family Resource Centre.

Major B.J. Tinsley is the commanding officer of 51 Aerospace Control and Warning Operational Training Squadron.

She says the resource centre provides a vital service.

“As a parent, and all of my members who have kids that use the services, and family members that access the services, it’s an essential for us. And to know how much North Bay supports that, it’s an amazing feeling,” she says.

The special Lakers jerseys feature both a Canadian and American flag this year and Major Tinsley says that speaks volumes to the bi-national working relationship the two countries share through NORAD at the local base.

“To see both flags on the jersey and to know that people put that there honouring what we do up at 22 Wing is outstanding, I love it,” she says.

Lakers goalie Brent Moran is looking forward to the game, saying it’ll hold special meaning for him.

“I have members that have served in the military, in my family, it hits home and it’s something I support a lot. It’s possibly something I want to do for my career and pursue after school,” he says.

“This is always a fun night and a great game. RMC always works hard and gives us all we can handle. And this year, they’re playing very well, so we’ll have to be at our best,” Lakers men’s hockey team head coach Mike McParland said. “The ability to support and recognize the men and women of the armed forces, raise money for the MFRC and entertain the men and women in uniform is great and we look forward to January 27.”

Upward of $25,000 has been raised through the annual Military Appreciation game and jersey auction, since it started nine years ago.

“As a not for profit, receiving donations like this can help us enhance programs and services to meet the unique needs of military families throughout Northeastern Ontario,” MFRC Executive Director, Tessa Clermont said. “We’re incredibly grateful for the support, and we look forward to cheering on the Lakers at the game.”