Alberta Enterprise Group to sponsor 150 troops and their families to Oilers-Capitals game in Washington, D.C.

January 12, 2009

EDMONTON: The Alberta Enterprise Group (AEG) is sponsoring 150 Canadian soldiers and family members to attend the January 13th Edmonton Oilers game against the Washington Capitals at Verizon Center in Washington, D.C. 

Canadian troops in attendance will be honoured with a pre-game tribute video shown on Verizon Center’s scoreboard and a flag party, comprised of Canadian soldiers, will present the colours of both countries. 

Three members of our Canadian Armed Forces will fly with the Edmonton Oilers to attend Tuesday night’s game against the Washington Capitals. Corporal Mark Fuchko (double-amputee below the knee), Master Corporal Colin A. Johnston and Corporal James Douglas, will participate in the pre-game ceremony. 

In January, 2008, AEG sponsored 300 Canadian soldiers and family members to attend the first-ever tribute to the Canadian military by a U.S-based professional sports team. The 2008 event, also held at an Edmonton Oilers game versus the Capitals at Verizon Center, was part of the AEG-sponsored trade mission that brought 100 Alberta business leaders to the U.S. capitol. 

There are more than 700 Canadian Forces personnel currently posted in the U.S. Nearly 350 are with NORAD, with the remainder employed with headquarters and units around the country. 

“This is a wonderful way to recognize the Canadian Forces and their ongoing efforts around the world,” said AEG President Tim Shipton. “It’s an honour for AEG to be part of such an extraordinary event to celebrate the dedication and sacrifice of our military families. We’re proud of the important work being done by Canadian Forces around the world.” 

The game will be broadcast live on Rogers Sportsnet at 5:00 p.m. MST. 

“The Canadian military and the City of Edmonton share a long history,” added Shipton. “AEG is thrilled to be a part of recognizing the troops and their important contribution to our community.”