ESQUIMALT, British Columbia, June 29, 2006 -- The Government of Canada commemorates the national historic significance of four naval station sites at CFB Esquimalt as the embodiment of more than a century's evolution of naval defence by British and Canadian Forces. The Honourable Mark Warawa, Member of Parliament for Langley and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of the Environment and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, the Honourable Rona Ambrose, unveiled a Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada plaque today.
"Today we recognize the importance of the Veterans' Cemetery, the former Royal Navy Hospital, Cole Island and the Dockyard by designating them as a national historic district," said Mr. Warawa. "The life of every Canadian has been touched by the people and the work done at CFB Esquimalt during their 100-plus years of residence. The freedom we hold today is due to the service and sacrifice of those from the past. This district helps to tell that story."
The designation of the Esquimalt sites as a national historic district is in recognition of their national historic and architectural significance. Three of the sites comprise the oldest portions of the current Canadian Forces Base Esquimalt in addition to God's Acre Veterans Cemetery which is under the stewardship of Veterans Affairs Canada. CFB Esquimalt is the only military base in Canada whose component sites possess significant existing resources representing the range of naval defence themes from the mid-nineteenth century to the present.
"National historic sites tell the stories of the people, places, and events that have shaped our nation," Mr. Warawa added. "The designation of the Esquimalt naval sites by the Government of Canada will help to ensure that the unique legacy of this complex can be appreciated for generations to come."
"It is through this kind of commemorative event that this country's sacrifices and achievements are kept alive in the hearts and minds of all Canadians," added the Honourable Greg Thompson, Minister of Veterans Affairs.
Created in 1919, the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada advises the Minister of the Environment about the national historic significance of places, persons and events that have marked Canada's history. The placement of a commemorative plaque represents an official recognition of their historic value. It is one means of educating the public about the richness of our cultural heritage, which must be preserved for present and future generations.
Information:
Ryan Sparrow
Associate Director and Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of the Environment
(819) 997-1441
Steve Langdon
Superintendent, Coastal B.C. Field Unit
Parks Canada
(250) 654-4048
Backgrounder associated with this News Release.
ESQUIMALT NAVAL SITES NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE OF CANADA
