Freedom Syrup: A legacy of remembrance, community, and gratitude

Freedom Syrup is more than a sugar bush, it is a living tribute to Canada’s fallen and a powerful example of community-driven remembrance.

Last week, our team had the honour of visiting one of Support Our Troops’ and Soldier On’s’ long-time and most meaningful donors, and his dedicated volunteers, in person. Tucked deep within a forest of maple trees in Huron County, Freedom Syrup is more than a sugar bush, it is a living tribute to Canada’s fallen and a powerful example of community-driven remembrance. 

At the heart of this remarkable initiative is Bob Rowe, the driving force behind Freedom Syrup. The sugar bush sits on land owned by the McGavin family, fourth-generation farmers whose roots on the property date back decades. Once active maple producers, the McGavin family stepped away from syrup production in 1945. Many years later, that history and the maple shack itself, would be thoughtfully revived with a new purpose. 

With the help of dedicated volunteers, Bob restored the maple operation not just to produce premium maple syrup, but to create a place of honour and reflection. Today, the farm boasts well over 1,000 taps, 158 of which are named in honour and remembrance of fallen Canadian Armed Forces members. 

Each of these commemorative taps tells a story. The sap lids bear the name, rank, hometown, and age at death of a fallen soldier. As the sap runs each spring, so too does the memory of those who gave their lives in service to our country. 

Since 2010, Bob and the Freedom Syrup team have generously donated proceeds from their efforts to Support Our Troops and Soldier On, ensuring that this act of remembrance also directly supports serving members, Veterans, and their families. This year, Freedom Syrup is expected to reach a remarkable milestone, $250,000 donated through this initiative. 

Last year alone, Freedom Syrup donated $31,000 to bring joy to 10 children attending camp, empowered six students in the National Tutoring Program with 115 hours of tutoring time, and supported 90 veterans and current serving members to receive an equipment grant. 

Freedom Syrup is a testament to what can happen when tradition, community, and purpose come together. We are deeply grateful to Bob, the McGavin family, and all the volunteers who continue to make this project possible. Their commitment ensures that our fallen are never forgotten, and that their legacy continues to support those who serve today and their families. 

Thank you for welcoming us, for sharing your story, and for everything you have done and continue to do for our military community.