On Parliament Hill

Canada’s Veterans have served our country with great courage and determination. This past Remembrance Day, November 11, we paused to remember the tremendous sacrifices and achievements of Canada’s men and women in uniform who have served and continue to serve our great country.

And this year, on this solemn occasion, we paid special tribute to Warrant Officer Patrice Vincent and Corporal Nathan Cirillo, who lost their lives in the recent acts of terror in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu and in Ottawa. These senseless acts of violence are a reminder of the cost of defending freedom, democracy and the rule of law. Canada’s men and women in uniform put their lives on the line every day for our safety and freedom.

Indeed, the selfless service of Canadian Armed Forces members during times of war, conflict and peace have helped define and shape our country. Because of their courage and self-sacrifice, we continue to live in peace and security. Indeed, throughout our country’s history, Canadian men and women in uniform have bravely fought tyranny and evil around the world, defending the values we cherish. And, 2014 marks important milestones in our proud military history.

During the First World War, more than 650,000 Canadians and Newfoundlanders served overseas, and hundreds of thousands of Canadians worked on the home front to support the war effort. On the occasion of the centenary of the beginning of the First World War, we remember and honour the service and sacrifices of an entire generation to defend freedom, peace and democracy that also ultimately helped Canada establish itself as an independent force on the global stage.

This year also marked the 75th anniversary of the start of the Second World War, and on June 6th, we commemorated the 70th anniversary of D-Day, a pivotal moment in history. With Canadian forces advancing further than any of their Allies, Canadians played an integral role in the success of the D-Day landings that helped turn the tide of the Second World War and ultimately helped liberate Europe and the world from Nazi tyranny.

Building on Canada’s long and proud history of fighting for what is principled and just, 2014 also marked the conclusion of Canada’s military mission in Afghanistan. More than 40,000 Canadian Armed Forces members served in Afghanistan to defeat terrorism, and promote security and development for Afghans. On May 9th, during a National Day of Honour, Canadians across the country paid respect to Veterans and to families of fallen soldiers.

We are eternally grateful for Canada’s Veterans who, at great personal costs and for some even the ultimate sacrifice, defended our freedoms. On Remembrance Day, we reflect on these freedoms and renew our determination to never forget the legacy and tremendous sacrifices of Canada’s Veterans.