Government of Canada - Gouvernement du Canada - September 13, 2007
OTTAWA – Veterans Affairs Canada, along with the Department of National Defence, the Commonwealth War Graves Commission and the Beechwood Cemetery Foundation, joined forces to renew a commitment of commemoration to Canadian Veterans, War Dead, and members of the Canadian Forces during a ceremony of dedication at Canada's National Military Cemetery.
Several dignitaries attended the dedication ceremony, including the Honourable Jason Kenney, Secretary of State (Multiculturalism and Canadian Identity); Brigadier-General Linda Colwell, Director General Military Personnel, Department of National Defence; Richard Kellaway, Director General of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission; and Grete Hale, President of the Beechwood Cemetery Foundation.
"This Government maintains a high standard of care for the graves of our Veterans," said Secretary of State Kenney, on behalf of the Honourable Greg Thompson, Minister of Veterans Affairs. "Today, through the dedication of Canada's National Military Cemetery, we show our gratitude to the brave Canadians that rest within these grounds."
"Canada's redefined National Military Cemetery is a symbolic link connecting the men and women who have served Canada in the past to those who serve today," said Brigadier-General Colwell. "Today we honour the sacrifices so many have made-and continue to make-in the service of our country."
"The Commission's enduring goal is to commemorate in perpetuity Commonwealth men and women who sacrificed their lives during both world wars; we can ensure, with our partners, all who rest here will continue to receive the same high level of dignity and respect," said Richard Kellaway.
"Beechwood is proud to be a part of this partnership between the Government of Canada and the Commonwealth War Graves Commission," said Grete Hale. "Through this partnership we confirm our longstanding commitment to honour the men and women who served our country."
For questions related to burials in Canada's National Military Cemetery, contact the Director of Casualty Support Administration:
Toll-free in Canada: 1-800-883-6094
Ottawa area/outside Canada: 613-995-1457
Fax: 613-944-7728.
For more information on Canada's National Military Cemetery visit the National Military Cemetery web site.
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Media Enquiries
Janice Summerby
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Nathalie Lauzon
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Chief Military Personnel (CMP)
Department of National Defence
613-992-3462
Dominique Boulais (Mr)
Deputy Secretary-General
Canadian Agency
Commonwealth War Graves Commission
613-992-7391
Sylvia Ceacero
Executive Director
Beechwood Cemetery and Foundation
613-741-9530
