About The Hungarian
Veterans’ Association
The Hungarian Veterans' Association was founded in Germany after the onset of the Communist regime in Eastern Europe following World War II. Brigadier-General András Zako formed a battalion of former military, police and gendarmes in hopes of launching a force to end Hungary’s occupation. Other Hungarian communities joined to create the Hungarian Veterans' Association. Over time, the Association transformed into a more nurturing entity, retaining and fostering Hungarian traditions and values. The Association also became the guardian of archiving historical events for future generations.
The Calgary Chapter
There are currently about twenty chapters of the Association worldwide. While each group is independent, they act cooperatively in supporting Hungarian veterans throughout the world. The Association is also involved in local charities, and fosters the Hungarian military mentality and spirit through annual events.
The Calgary Association is an important part of the Calgary cultural landscape, and has been a proud host of the annual Magyar Gála for over 65 years.
For more information on our military history, please consider visiting The Military Museums of Calgary Alberta - the largest tri-service museum in Western Canada and second largest military museum in the country.
HVA - AGM 2023
The Hungarian Veterans’ Association held its annual general meeting on May 28th. The meeting was well attended and it is note-worthy that over three-quarter of the attendees were from the younger generation.
The most significant event on the agenda was the planned resignation of József Várvizi as the president, after 22 years. His quiet, thoughtful and steady leadership was key in the success of HVA and its annual Magyar Gala. While he will remain an integral part of the Association, we wish him a very pleasant summer holiday.
We are delighted to welcome Robert Becskei as the new HVA president. His vision is to continue the military traditions, celebrate Hungarian culture and to build a financially stable HVA in Calgary. We look forward to working with Robert.
Other items on the agenda included discussions on upcoming events, both within HVA and in Calgary’s multicultural scene. We invite everyone to view our website and follow us on social media to stay up to date on planed events.
Enjoy a wonderful relaxing summer and see you in the fall at the annual Open House for the upcoming 66th Magyar Gala.
For information contact Kristina at hvayyc@outlook.com
Heroes’ Day - Hösök Napja
Video courtesy of Kedves Csaba
