Brampton, ON – Today, the Honourable Steven Blaney, Minister of Veterans Affairs, and Eve Adams, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Veterans Affairs, joined with the Right Honourable Stephen Harper, Prime Minister of Canada, parliamentarians, youth and other dignitaries at a memorial service to commemorate the 58th anniversary of the Korean War Armistice.
Prime Minister Harper and Minister Blaney laid wreaths at the Korea Veterans National Wall of Remembrance. Minister Blaney later spoke at a reception about the importance of remembering the sacrifices of all Veterans who served in the Korean War.
"The selfless sacrifice of those who accepted the challenge helped establish Canada’s reputation as a nation that will fight against injustice and repression beyond its borders," said Minister Blaney. "As one of Canada’s most significant armed engagements of the 20th century, we must remember the sacrifices of those Veterans who gave so much in the defence of freedom and democracy and ensure that their legacy is preserved for future generations."
From 1950 to 1953, more than 26,000 Canadians served in Korea, working to restore peace and stability to the area. An additional 7,000 Canadians served between the signing of the armistice and the end of 1955, with some Canadian troops remaining until 1957. In total, 516 brave Canadians made the ultimate sacrifice while serving with the United Nations forces.
Many gather each year at the Korea Veterans National Wall of Remembrance in Brampton, as the monument honours all Canadians who fought in the Korean War.
More information on Canada’s role in the Korean War and the Community Engagement Partnership Fund can be found on the Veterans Affairs Canada Web site at veterans.gc.ca.
