Statement
NR - 11.133 - November 11, 2011
OTTAWA – The Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence, today issued the following statement on the occasion of Remembrance Day:
“Every November 11th, Canadians come together to mark the service and countless sacrifices of Canadian Forces members, past and present, here at home and around the world.
We recall when the absence of freedom and security rallied the very bravest of Canada's sons and daughters to defend our most sacred values and ideals.
We remember the void left in the hearts of so many who anxiously waited for their loved ones to return to Canada, and reflect on the loss of members of our forces who never returned home.
We recognize all those who served, and those who continue to serve, absent any thought of their personal security.
This year, members of the Canadian Forces ended their combat role in southern Afghanistan and moved to a non-combat training mission centred in Kabul. Risks are inherent to any mission in Afghanistan and our men and women in uniform continue to sacrifice and make a real difference in the lives of Afghans.
Earlier this year, over 650 military personnel began a mission to protect Libyans against violence and threats of violence by the Gadhafi regime. Our planes and frigates have been front and centre in this conflict and I'm proud of what the Canadian Forces have accomplished.
Both of these operations, and numerous other activities at home and around the world, continue the strong traditions of the Royal Canadian Navy, the Royal Canadian Air Force and the Canadian Army.
On Remembrance Day, when Canadians from all corners of this great country join together in silence, may we fill those empty moments with our thoughts of gratitude and compassion for the men and women, and their families, who have given so very much for the causes of freedom, democracy, human rights and the rule of law.
Canadians are eternally grateful for the sacrifices of those who serve to protect us.
Lest we forget.”
The Honourable Peter MacKay
Minister of National Defence
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