Tom Hoppe joined the Canadian Armed Forces in 1982 and served with distinction during a career spanning 20 years.  Following his military career, Tom has been actively involved in modern-day Veterans’ issues recognizing the most effective way to assist fellow Veterans is by educating government officials on necessary programs, transition needs, and benefits. To achieve this goal, Tom has held numerous positions such as former President of a national Veterans’ organization; appointed to the Department of National Defence Ombudsman Advisory Committee; former Chair of the Veterans Affairs Ombudsman Advisory Committee; and is one of the five members of Senator Dallaire’s advisory council. Tom has been called as an expert witness to testify to both Parliamentary and Senate Committee hearings on Veterans’ legislation, transition, and benefits. Tom is the former Chair of the Chronic Pain Centre Excellence Advisory Council for Veterans and is a co-author on several research projects examining the impact that military identity and mindset have on Veterans suffering from chronic pain. Tom is the producer and host of "The Most Painful Podcast", speaking to experts on all aspects of chronic pain.

In 1994, while serving in Bosnia, Tom rescued three children who were being shot at by snipers and successfully commanded his patrol during several engagements with opposing forces. In recognition of his conspicuous leadership and bravery under fire, the Governor General awarded Tom with both the Meritorious Service Cross and Medal of Bravery. As one of Canada’s decorated soldiers during one tour, Tom has been the subject of documentary films, media interviews, featured in books, listed in the edition of Canadian Who’s Who, and had a street named in his honour by the City of Calgary.

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