The Honourable Minister of National Defence, David J. McGuinty, issued the following statement to mark the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001:
"Twenty-five years ago today, nearly 3,000 people were killed in the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, including 24 Canadians. It was a day of profound loss that changed the lives of countless families and reshaped the security of our continent and our world.
"We honour the survivors, families, and loved ones who continue to carry the weight of this tragedy. We also pay tribute to the first responders and community members who, in the face of danger, demonstrated remarkable courage, compassion, and selflessness in helping others.
"In the hours that followed, more than 33,000 passengers aboard hundreds of diverted flights found refuge in communities across Canada notably Gander, Newfoundland. Canadians opened their homes, provided food and shelter, and offered comfort to strangers during a moment of extraordinary uncertainty.
"In the years that followed more than 40,000 Canadians served in Afghanistan. One hundred and fifty-eight members of the Canadian Armed Forces did not come home, along with a diplomat, a journalist, and two aid workers. Many others returned home with injuries and scars - both visible and invisible.
"As we mark this solemn anniversary, the duty to remember remains. So too does our responsibility to protect Canadians, defend our country and stand with our Allies and partners who share our commitment to peace, freedom and democracy.
"Today, we remember those we lost. We honour those who answered the call. And we will never forget."
