October 20, 2007
Sydney, N.S. The Honourable Loyola Hearn, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans,
today unveiled a memorial honouring those who lost their lives while in the service
of the Canadian Coast Guard. The monument will reside in the courtyard of the Coast
Guard College in Westmount, Cape Breton.
"Today we honour the commitment of those who paid the ultimate price to serve
and protect Canadians at sea," noted Minister Hearn. "They have made us tremendously
proud, and this monument is our tribute to them."
The families of many of those lost attended today's unveiling, including the
widows and children of Coast Guard's most recent fatality. On December 7, 2005,
helicopter pilot Gordon Simmons and marine aids technician Carl Neal perished in
a crash near Marystown, Newfoundland in poor weather conditions.
Also on hand to pay their respects were representatives of Sydney's Royal Canadian
Legion and fire service.
Addressing the assembled guests in the College courtyard, Minister Hearn noted,
"Our government recognizes the important role of institutions such as the Coast
Guard. Their service to Canadians and our country is vital to both our ongoing maritime
safety and security and our economic well-being."
The Minister also acknowledged the valuable contribution of Transport Canada
employees. All Coast Guard helicopters are flown and serviced by Transport Canada
employees assigned to the agency. Five of the names on the monument belong to them.
"This unique connection has resulted in strong ties between our organizations,"
he noted. "On behalf of Canadians, I thank them for their commitment and sacrifice.
Their losses are our losses, too."
Since it was formed in 1962, the Canadian Coast Guard has lost 34 people in the
line of duty. Brief details about these individuals can be found in the attached
backgrounder.
Backgrounders:
Names Inscribed on the Monument
-30-
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Catherine Barratt
Coast Guard Communications
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
613-899-1844
