Ottawa, ON - Today, the Honourable Jill McKnight, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence, the Honourable David J. McGuinty, Minister of National Defence and the Honourable Gary Anandasangaree, Minister of Public Safety, issued the following statement to mark Remembrance Day:
"On the 95th anniversary of Remembrance Day in Canada, we honour Veterans and serving members of the Canadian Armed Forces and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police for their service, sacrifice and commitment to defending the freedoms and democratic values we hold dear.
"This year, we also remember those who lost their lives in the tragic incident at Canadian Forces Base Wainwright in Alberta. Our thoughts remain with their families, loved ones and all those affected. All of Canada is in mourning. Honouring the fallen includes remembering their contributions and the values they stood for.
"Canada's tradition of military service spans generations. From the South African War at the turn of the 20th century, to the First and Second World Wars, when Canadians and Newfoundlanders stood with allies against tyranny and oppression, to the Korean War, the Persian Gulf and Afghanistan, to peace support operations and domestic missions, Canadians have answered the call.
"As the foundations of collective security are put to the test, remembrance also calls on us to carry forward the lessons of their service and sacrifice, and uphold the peace, security and democratic values they defended.
"This Remembrance Day, we remember those who served, honour the sacrifices they made and reaffirm our responsibility to carry forward their legacy. Lest we forget."
