10/15/2026
To the Residents of Petawawa,
As a retired military member who served 19 years at CFB Petawawa and chose to make this community our permanent home, our family understands the vital importance of strong local support systems. When service members deploy, train, or transition into civilian life, it is the strength and dedication of the surrounding town that keeps our community grounded and cared for. That is why we are writing today to express our wholehearted endorsement for the re-election of Gary Serviss as Mayor of Petawawa.
Gary’s dedication to our town and its military community is rooted in decades of selfless service. Having spent his entire career teaching in Petawawa, he has shaped generations of young minds, instilling in them strong values and leadership. His commitment to active living and youth extends far beyond the classroom. Over the last three decades, Gary has served as a dedicated school and community coach in basketball, badminton, hockey, running, throwing, and Nordic skiing. Furthermore, he helped bring Paracycling to the community and was instrumental in earning Petawawa its designation as a Bronze Bicycle Friendly Community. As a military father with a son currently serving as a Captain in the Reserves, Gary understands the military lifestyle firsthand, giving him a direct, personal insight into the lives and sacrifices of today’s service members. He raised three children and is now raising a grandson right here in Petawawa, giving him a deep personal connection to the families who call this town home.
His deep respect for our armed forces and local history is evident in everything he does. Gary founded the Petawawa Hall of Fame, created and continues to maintain the Valour Wall of Remembrance (ensuring that a local Veteran is honoured each year with a plaque on the Juno Beach Memorial), and played an instrumental role in getting the Veterans Crosswalk installed in Petawawa after being introduced by Councillor Adam Driscoll. His ongoing commitment to our community was further demonstrated when he joined the local Royal Canadian Legion last year, adding to his years of active service as a Rotary Club of Petawawa member and long-time fundraising volunteer.
In civic leadership, Gary brings proven experience and steady guidance. Having served three terms on Petawawa Council, holding the roles of Councillor, Deputy Mayor, and Mayor, he has consistently demonstrated that he listens to residents, respects our military and veteran community, and works tirelessly to make Petawawa a welcoming, active, and vibrant place to live and retire.
We need a leader who truly cares for our community, supports our military members, veterans, and their families, and honours our rich local history. Gary Serviss has proven time and again that he is that leader.
Please join us in re-electing Gary Serviss.
Sincerely,
MCpl Mike Trauner (Ret) MMV SM, CD1 and Family
