While Canada's Armed Forces have been engaged in peace-keeping missions for half a century, and are presently fighting and dying in Afghanistan, there have been five other major areas of conflict over the centuries in which members have distinguished themselves by their courage and achievements. It was decided to commemorate significant representatives of each of these eras, and a list of potential candidates was prepared. Eventually it was shortened to fourteen men and women of remarkable courage, whose exploits honour all Canadians who have served their country in war. The name "Valiants" was chosen because they all conquered adversity, and received the Victoria Cross (for valour) or other outstanding honours.

Two sculptors, Marlene Hilton Moore and John McEwen created statues from drawings, paintings and photos of the heroes, and the results are incredibly lifelike. They were erected adjacent to the National War Memorial, and unveiled on 4 November 2006 by the Governor General, Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces. That date marked the start of Remembrance Week, which culminated on Remembrance Day, November 11. This journal contains photos of all 14, along with brief biographies and reasons for their inclusion.