The Honourable David McGuinty, Minister of National Defence, and the Honourable Jill McKnight, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence, have issued the following statement:
"Today we mark the 85th Anniversary of the historic Battle of Britain during the Second World War and honour all the heroes who fought valiantly to protect Great Britain from invasion.
"From July to October 1940, the Battle of Britain was fought in the skies over England. It was the first battle to be fought almost exclusively in the air. The battle formations used for the first time in that battle became the basis of air tactics and techniques that would be applied for years afterwards. It was also the first time Canada sent an expeditionary air force into battle in a coalition environment.
"More than 100 Canadian pilots and an estimated 300 Canadian ground crew served with their Allied counterparts to fend off Nazi domination of the airspace over Britain. Twenty-three Canadian pilots paid the ultimate sacrifice during the battle.
"With the odds stacked against them, the Allied forces worked tirelessly together to block the German Luftwaffe advance. Their ultimate success was an important battle victory and showed that the Luftwaffe was not invincible. This gave renewed hope that together Allied forces could win the war.
"More than 250,000 men and women served in the Royal Canadian Air Force during the Second World War including 17,397 aviators. Their contribution to the fight for freedom is unparalleled and we honour this contribution with our greatest respect.
"Today, we remember the service and sacrifices of the brave Canadians who fought alongside our Allies in the Battle of Britain. Their legacy of dedication and excellence remains an inspiration for the continued pursuit of freedom and peace."
