Minister of National Defence marks Canadian Armed Forces Day 2018
Statement
June 3, 2018 – Ottawa – National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces
Minister of National Defence Harjit S. Sajjan issued the following statement:
“Today, on Canadian Armed Forces Day, we thank the women and men in uniform who serve our nation selflessly, defending Canada’s interests and values and contributing to peace and security both at home and abroad. We also take time today to thank our military families, who are a major source of strength for those in uniform and contribute significantly to our military’s overall effectiveness.
“Whether our sailors, soldiers, airmen and airwomen are fighting floods at home or on missions to preserve life and peace throughout our world, they represent Canada with pride, dedication, and professionalism. Their ability to adapt and respond, no matter where and when they are called to serve, is truly inspiring.
“In keeping with our promise to strengthen the Canadian Armed Forces, we exceeded our 2017-18 recruitment objective with more than 5,000 new Regular Force recruit enrolments, including 860 women. These numbers are great, but we know we can do better. Diversity is our strength. We must continue to improve how we attract and retain the right people so that we can build an Armed Force that is more representative of the nation it serves.
“As Minister of National Defence, I am humbled by the sacrifice and dedication of those I represent. I will continue to ensure that our women and men are supported throughout their careers and beyond. Whether recovering from illness or injury, reintegrating back or transitioning to a new chapter, we will always support our military personnel, and those who have served. I will also continue to collaborate with my Veterans Affairs colleagues, so that our Canadian Armed Forces members continue to be recognized as part of our larger Defence community once they become Veterans. They deserve no less.
“Our government is also ensuring that military families receive the support that they need. On April 1, 2018, $6 million of new funding from the Department of National Defence was provided to modernize the Military Family Services Program, delivering additional support to military families. At Military Family Resource Centres across Canada, the tangible results have included extended childcare hours, expanded youth programs, and the provision of additional mental health services, including couples counselling and women’s workshops, among other enhanced services.
“Today, I extend my sincere appreciation to all current and former Canadian Armed Forces members, and the families that support them, for their service to Canada. You make us all proud.”
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Contacts
Byrne Furlong
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of National Defence
(613) 996-3100
Email: byrne.furlong@forces.gc.ca
Media Relations
Department of National Defence
Phone: 613-996-2353
Email: mlo-blm@forces.gc.ca