May 3, 2012
Georgetown, Ontario — On behalf of the Honourable Steven Blaney, Minister of Veterans Affairs, the Honourable Michael Chong, Member of Parliament for Wellington–Halton Hills, today announced funding of up to $5,000 in support of the 10th annual Candlelight Tributes being held in Georgetown today. This annual event is held in May to mark the Victory in Europe (V-E Day) during the Second World War.
“It is our sacred duty to remember and honour the brave men and women who courageously served Canada to secure the peace and freedoms we enjoy today,” said Minister Blaney. “Our Government congratulates the Georgetown Candlelight Tributes for organizing these annual candlelight services which serve as powerful and visual reminders of the valour displayed, and the sacrifices made, by our nation’s truest heroes.”
“Our Government is ensuring that the important contributions of our Veterans are remembered for future generations,” said Mr. Chong. “These events in Georgetown provide our community with the opportunity to honour those local Veterans who served our country during the Second World War.”
This community-led project received Government of Canada funding of up to $5,000 through Veterans Affairs Canada’s Community Engagement Partnership Fund. Applications to the Community Engagement Partnership Fund are accepted throughout the year. Non-profit groups, educational institutions and other organizations delivering remembrance activities and events may be eligible for funding.
Ceremonies will be held throughout the day at the Georgetown Remembrance Park and at the Glen Williams Cenotaph. In a symbolic Passing of the Torch of Remembrance, students from 19 schools in the Georgetown and surrounding area, accompanied by Veterans, will place candles in the Georgetown Remembrance Park and at the Glen Williams Cenotaph. In the evening, the community is also invited to participate in a Silent Walk beginning at Royal Canadian Legion Branch 120 (Georgetown) and ending at the Georgetown Remembrance Park. Community members will honour our Veterans by placing candles at the cenotaph.
For information on Veterans Affairs Canada’s programs and services, please visit the Veterans Affairs Canada Web site at veterans.gc.ca. Share your thoughts at facebook.com/CanadaRemembers External link, Opens in a new window.
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Janice Summerby
Media Relations Advisor
Veterans Affairs Canada
Phone: 613-992-7468
Codie Taylor
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Veterans Affairs
Phone: 613-996-4649
All Other Enquiries:
information@vac-acc.gc.ca
