In 2001, Canada pledged its support to the international fight against terrorism and deployed military forces to Afghanistan. Canada's whole-of-government involvement in Afghanistan lasted more than a decade. This military mission became our country's most involved and complex one since the Korean War-and the deadliest. More than 40,000 Canadians in uniform and hundreds of civilians and government officials served in the region. We remember their contributions and sacrifices and will preserve their legacy for future generations.
Today, the Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence, and the Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of International Development and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada, announced the selected design for the National Monument to Canada's Mission in Afghanistan. The Monument will be built across the street from the Canadian War Museum in Ottawa. It will recognize the commitment and sacrifice of Canadians who served in Afghanistan and the support provided to them by Canadians at home.
The Government of Canada has selected Team Stimson's design and conceptual approach. This decision reflects the feedback of veterans, their families, and others who served on the mission. The Government is grateful for the work of the design teams, the jury of experts, and everyone that participated in the consultation on this important project.
Team Stimson's design draws on elements of healing from the Medicine Wheel and takes the form of a circular, sacred space of safety, a "home base" of reflection, memory and contemplation. It is made up of four portals, where an interior area is the sanctuary where the fallen are remembered. Inscribed on the walls of three of the quadrants is the year, names of the fallen and maple leaves, in several rows. The fourth southeast quadrant wall facing the direction of Afghanistan is dedicated to fallen Afghan Allies. In the centre, four bronze flak jackets stand draped on crosses-utilitarian yet poignant reminders of protection.
This Monument creates a powerful opportunity to honour and reflect, and to seek balance and healing, for all Canadians.
