NR - 10.112 - October 8, 2010
OTTAWA - The Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence, issued the following statement today:
"This is the time of year when families and friends gather together to enjoy each other's company and reflect on how lucky we are to be Canadian. This country provides us with freedoms and rights, as well as health and prosperity, which are enjoyed by too few on this planet. We largely enjoy a standard of living and a sense of security that is the envy of the world. We are truly blessed to be living in a nation that permits us to live peacefully and pursue our goals for the future.
Many thousands of people, at home and abroad, have been touched by the actions of the Canadian Forces this year, and are without a doubt thankful for their interventions.
From the military response to the earthquake in Haiti, to the 2010 Vancouver Olympic and Paralympic Games, to search and rescue operations at home, as well as our important, ongoing mission in Afghanistan, Canadian soldiers, sailors, airmen and airwomen and employees at the Department of National Defence have worked to save lives, provide comfort and offer hope to people in need. You have a special place in the hearts of many, and my deepest thanks for your efforts on behalf of our country.
I am grateful to be able to work with such dedicated, professional and caring people – military and civilian – and proud of your contribution to peace, security and stability, here and around the world. My thoughts are with those away from family and friends this weekend who are doing great work on behalf of our country. To everyone in the Defence community, Happy Thanksgiving."
- 30 -
