Durham Region Transit honours Canadian Armed Forces

Durham Region Transit honours Canadian Armed Forces with fare-free travel during National Poppy Campaign

Every November, communities across Canada pause to remember. Streets grow quiet, flags fly at half-mast and stories of courage and sacrifice echo through ceremonies and conversations. In Durham Region, that spirit of remembrance connects our communities through Durham Region Transit (DRT).

This year, DRT, in partnership with the Region of Durham, is proud to offer fare-free transit to Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members, reservists, and veterans from October 31 through November 11.

This gesture reflects our commitment to supporting those who serve our country.

Whether heading to a commemorative event, visiting a local Legion or simply going about their day, eligible CAF riders can board any DRT vehicle without paying a fare.

All they need is one of the following:

• a Veteran’s Service Card (NDI 75)
• Canadian Forces Identification Card (NDI 20)
• CFOne Card
• Temporary National Defence Identification Card (NDI 10)
• or to appear in uniform or wearing service medals.

“This program is a small way to say thank you,” says Bill Holmes, General Manager of DRT. “We hope that this gesture reflects the respect and gratitude the Region holds for veterans and those who are serving now.”

On October 31, the Region held its annual Poppy Campaign flag raising ceremony and welcomed the news of the new fare-free transit program, calling it a meaningful way to honour those who have served.

Whitby Mayor and Regional Councillor, Elizabeth Roy, was joined by MP for Bowmanville-Oshawa North, Jamil Jivani—and representatives from the offices of MP for Whitby, Ryan Turnbull, MP for Pickering–Brooklin, Juanita Nathan, and MP for Northumberland–Clarke, Philip Lawrence–MPP for Ajax, Rob Cerjanec; MPP for Whitby Lorne Coe; Veterans and local Royal Canadian Legion presidents; Regional staff and community members.

“We are proud to honour the service and sacrifice of our Canadian Armed Forces members, veterans and reservists,” says Whitby Mayor and Regional Councillor, Elizabeth Roy. “Providing fare-free transit is a way for the Region to show its gratitude and ensure that those who have served—and continue to serve—can access the services, events and communities that support them. It’s one small way we can say thank you and stand with our veterans and current CAF members, especially in the lead-up to Remembrance Day.”

“It’s truly wonderful to see Durham Region recognizing and supporting veterans in such a meaningful way,” says Gloria Eng, Zone F1 Poppy Chair. “For many of us—especially in Durham’s northern communities—reliable transit is needed to see family, to get to medical appointments, attend Legion events and access other essential programs or services. Durham Region Transit’s On Demand service has been a valuable resource, and this fare-free initiative makes it even more accessible. It’s a thoughtful gesture that shows real appreciation—and it helps ensure veterans can stay connected to the programs and support they need.”

The tribute doesn’t stop there.

On November 11, DRT operators may observe a two-minute moment of silence onboard. It’s a quiet, powerful tradition that many DRT Operators and their customers have embraced over the years.

The two-minute silence is not mandatory and will only be observed when it’s safe and appropriate to do so. But when it happens, it transforms the ride into a shared experience of gratitude and remembrance for all riding with DRT.

How to ride:

DRT’s scheduled service operates throughout Durham Region, with On Demand available in low ridership and rural areas.

CAF members can plan their ride at DurhamRegionTransit.com or calling customer service at 311 within Regional limits, or 1-800-247-0055.