We support veterans and military families.

ABOUT

First in the Field Board was incorporated under the Alberta Societies Act on December 19, 2016. Our purpose is to fundraise in support of activities and programs for Canadian Military Service Personnel, Veterans, and military families. Fifty percent of revenues raised are donated to the Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry (PPCLI) For the Soldier Legacy Fund, continuing the legacy of the Patricia’s for generations to come. The other monies raised go directly to organizations supporting serving CAF members, veterans, and their families - including families of the fallen.

See Our Impact

OUR NAME

The PPCLI were the first Canadian arms unit to deploy into battle during the First World War, hence they were “First in the Field”.

The Regiment began a history of service to the Nation. The PPCLI have been in every major operation undertaken by Canada and continue to serve our nation today both domestically and overseas. For more information on the history of the PPCLI please click here.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

First in the Field is managed by a five-person Board of Directors. At present those directors are:

Malcolm Bruce, Lieutenant-Colonel (Ret’d) - President

I proudly served for 30 years in the Princess Patricias’ Canadian Light Infantry, retiring in 2012. I a firm believer in giving back and remain active in supporting military members, their families, veterans and the Families of the Fallen. It is for this reason I, along with the dedicated team of Directors and Partners, formed First In The Field Board. I remain involved with many veteran passion projects including: past VP Fundraising for the PPCLI Foundation for almost 8 years; an active member of the PPCLI Association; Heroes Hockey Challenge and, support for the Home For Heroes Foundation.

- Malcolm

Mr. Greg Hofmann - Vice President

Though never in the military myself, I’ve long supported those in and associated with our serving members and their families. All Canadians, throughout our history and to this day, owe a great deal to the Canadian Armed Forces. It is a humbling honour for me to serve on the First in the Field Board and be actively involved in raising much-needed funding in support of serving members, veterans and their families. With the need for support being on-going, it is vital our efforts to provide the required support never cease. For me, especially as a non-military person, it’s the very least I can do to contribute and demonstrate my gratitude.

- Greg

Mrs. Brenda Davidson - Secretary

I have been connected with the military since 2006 when my relative joined and we became a home away from home for him and his friends, especially for home cooked meals. Unfortunately, we have lived experienced what Memorial Cross families go through. With the supports, care, and compassion from his friends, military members connected to his unit and non profit groups, my son who was in Junior High learned to move forward positively over time. I have been working with military and veteran families for over 15 years with a non profit organization. Volunteering on the First In The Field Board allows me to give back by raising funds for serving members and those who are veterans and their families in a way that I know will make a positive impact for the journeys they are on.

- Brenda

Andrew Sharman, Major (Ret’d UK Army) - Treasurer

As a veteran of the British Army with over 22 years service, and having served with members of the Canadian Forces in a number of theatres as well as being based at CFB Suffield for 2 years, I wanted to continue to contribute. Serving on the First in the Field Board allows me to maintain connections with like minded veterans and others and allows us to raise funds to support serving members, veterans and their families in times of need. This is both very much needed and hugely fulfilling.

- Andrew

Shawna Bruce, Major (Ret’d) - Member at Large

I served for 28 years in the Canadian Armed Forces starting in the Canadian Cadet Organization and transitioning into the Army Reserve as a Public Affairs Officer. I supported many deployments of soldiers with a focus on advocating for military families. In recent years I've volunteered time with initiatives including Heroes Hockey Challenge, Veterans Foodbank (Edmonton) and Homes for Heroes. I am a member of the Veterans Advisory Council for the Veteran’s Transition Network (a project with UBC) and promote the hiring of veterans throughout my professional networks.

- Shawna

LEARN MORE

Wanting to learn more about First in the Field? Browse our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs).

FAQs