On top of her duties as the Mayor of Red Deer, Tara Veer has also been appointed Honorary Lieutenant-Colonel with the Canada Armed Forces. Honoraries are a long-time tradition recognizing prominent private citizens who volunteer, advocate for their regiments, communities, and guardians of regimental traditions and histories. 

“I am extremely honoured to have been given the distinguished appointment of Honorary Lieutenant- Colonel with the Canadian Military,” said Mayor Veer. “I am eager to serve in this position, in conjunction with my public duties. The sacrifices of our Canadian Armed Forces and the many veterans that served our country are what have allowed me to serve our community as Mayor. Past and present heroes in the Canadian Armed Forces have made our country what it is today. They are the reason for the freedoms Canadians enjoy today.” 

She was nominated by Lieutenant-Colonel Steven Flavel, Commanding Officer of 41 Signal Regiment. The 41 Signal Regiment has squadrons in Red Deer, Edmonton, and Calgary. 

“Mayor Veer’s remarkable career and contributions to Red Deer will certainly be an inspiration to all of our soldiers with her demonstrated ‘service before self’, leadership, and boundless energy. The soldiers of 41 Signal Regiment are truly honoured to welcome Honorary Lieutenant-Colonel Veer to our ranks,” Lieutenant-Colonel Steven Flavel, Commanding Officer, 41 Signal Regime 

The Honorary is considered the guardian of traditions and history promoting the regiment’s identity. She will also be an advisor to the Commanding Officer on virtually all issues excluding operations. 

“As an Honorary Lieutenant-Colonel, I will endeavor to foster ‘esprit de corps’ and support the 41 Signal Regiment and its leadership, and work to develop and strengthen the ties between our local military and communities, businesses, and industry throughout Alberta,” said Mayor Veer. “I will fulfill the responsibilities entrusted to me, which include providing a link between the local and provincial Squadrons and the community and raise the public profile of the Regiment with utmost pride. Thank you to the Canadian Armed Forces for this honour.” 

In this new role, Veer says she will continue to advocate for Red Deer. 

She will serve in this role for a three-year term and her appointment is effective immediately.