History of Brandon Salutes

On November 28th, 2002 a military relations brainstorming session was held to determine whether there was a need to form an official military relations committee. During the session the group developed a picture of the probable future of relations between Shilo and Brandon and area if nothing is done and the desirable future. Seven themes emerged as areas requiring attention and are listed below in the order of their priority:

  1. Leadership
  2. Housing
  3. Employment
  4. Economic impact
  5. Transportation
  6. Public relations
  7. Social

A volunteer steering committee was struck to develop a military relations committee structure for presentation to stakeholders.

The military relations steering committee met on Jan. 17th, 2003 to discuss possible operating structures for an official military relations committee and subsequently proposed the creation of a formalized military relations committee. Terms of Reference for the Brandon Military Relations Committee were signed in May 2003.

The main goal of formalizing meetings of this "Steering Committee" is to ensure consistent communications amongst all groups involved and to identify any potential areas that may require the efforts of an Action Committee. It was agreed that the Mayor of Brandon, Base Commander for CFB Shilo, President of the Brandon Chamber of Commerce and Reeve for the R.M. of Cornwallis will comprise the steering committee referred to as the Brandon Military Relations Committee.

In early 2004, the Brandon Military Relations Committee identified a need for a group that could undertake community initiatives in a timely fashion. Brandon Salutes was formed as a subcommittee of the Brandon Military Relations Committee to address this need.

The Brandon Military Relations Committee meets on an annual basis to ensure a smooth flow of communication amongst stakeholders and set priorities, provide direction and secure resources for Brandon Salutes as required.