November 5, 2004 OTTAWA -- Senator William Rompkey, Deputy Leader of the Government in the Senate, and the Honourable Albina Guarnieri, Minister of Veterans Affairs, today honoured Veterans of the Italian Campaign during a ceremony in the Senate Chamber. The ceremony also launched Veterans' Week in Canada, which runs from November 5th to Remembrance Day on November 11th. Among the Veterans in attendance were Second World War Veterans who had just the day before returned from commemorating the 60th Anniversary of the Italian Campaign in Italy. Between the summer of 1943 and early 1945, almost 100,000 Canadians served in Italy and nearly 6,000 lost their lives. "The Senate is proud to share in the launch of Veterans' Week today surrounded by magnificent war paintings which serve as poignant reminders of Canada's military service," said Senator William Rompkey. "Today's ceremony ? as well as those taking place over the course of Veterans' Week from coast to coast to coast ? reminds us of the pivotal role played by Canadian Second-World-War troops during the bitter 20-month campaign which led to the liberation of Italy." As part of the ceremony, the Minister of Veterans Affairs presented a Commendation Award to Mr. Ted Griffiths, a Veteran of the Italian Campaign. The Commendation is awarded to individuals who have performed commendable service to the Veteran community and/or individuals who represent commendable role models for their fellow Veterans. Mr. Griffiths was instrumental in the dedication of a statue named "The Price of Peace" which was unveiled in Ortona in 1999, and the driving force behind the newly-created Battle of Ortona Museum. "Both are splendid monuments and an ongoing testament to the sacrifice of our brave Canadian Veterans," stated Minister Guarnieri, "Ted's devotion to the cause of remembrance continues. That is why he is so richly deserving of this Award." An original oil painting of Mr. Griffiths was also unveiled at the ceremony. Senator Michael Meighen presided over the unveiling with the artist, Catherine Jones, of Halifax. The painting, part of a collection of portraits of veterans entitled "At the End of the Day," will be on display in the Foyer of the Senate until November 19. For more information on Veterans' Week, please consult the Veterans Affairs Canada website at vac-acc.gc.ca. A backgrounder on the collection of veterans' portraits. - 30 - Media Enquiries: Mike Scandiffio Director of Communications Office of the Minister of Veterans Affairs (613) 996-4649 Pamela Price A/Media Relations Advisor Veterans Affairs Canada (902) 368-0294 Leslie Dauncey Communications Officer The Senate (613) 995-7966 All Other Enquiries:information@vac-acc.gc.ca
