Minister of National Defence Statement on the Death of Gilles Lamontagne

“Today, we remember the life of The Honourable Gilles Lamontagne, a former Defence Minister and member of the Royal Canadian Air Force who, in his 97 years, gave so much to public service.

“In 1941, at the age of 22, Mr. Lamontagne joined the Royal Canadian Air Force and served as a bomber pilot during the Second World War. He survived two years as a prisoner of war after being shot down over the Netherlands in 1943. And military service was only one part of his life-long contribution to the public good.

“He served his community in a myriad of ways, from the Rotary Club of Quebec City to local politics, as Mayor of Quebec City.  As a federal cabinet minister, he served as Postmaster General and Minister of National Defence. Despite the demands of these challenging positions, Mr. Lamontagne showed great dedication and leadership.

“In his role as Lieutenant-Governor of Quebec, he further strengthened his personal bonds with the Canadian Armed Forces. It brings me great pride that members of the Canadian Army will provide a Quarter Guard at his funeral, while sentries from the Royal Canadian Navy will stand post at the Basilique-cathédrale Notre-Dame de Québec. Finally, and perhaps most fittingly for a former pilot, two Royal Canadian Air Force helicopters will conduct a fly-past in recognition of his service.

“It is worth noting that this past week marked National Public Service Week, a time where we recognize the contributions and sacrifices of public servants to make Canada the great nation it is today. While the loss of Mr. Lamontagne saddens us, we can also look to his example for inspiration.

“On behalf of the Department of National Defence and the Canadian Armed Forces, I offer our sincere condolences to Mr. Lamontagne’s family and friends and thank him for his decades of service to our country.”