May 8, 2012
Ottawa – The Honourable Steven Blaney, Minister of Veterans Affairs, issued the following statement today regarding the 67th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day (VE-Day).
"Today we remember the brave Canadians whose courage and perseverance led to the Allied Victory in Europe. Sixty-seven years ago, after six years of brutal conflict, the official surrender of Germany brought peace to Europe.
On the 67th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day, we honour the more than 47,000 Canadians and Newfoundlanders who made the ultimate sacrifice during the Second World War. We recognize the sacrifices and achievements of those brave men and women who left a lasting legacy of peace.
It is our duty to pay tribute to the more than one million Canadian men and women who fought for peace and freedom during the Second World War. Our Government encourages all Canadians to learn about the sacrifices and achievements made by our Veterans during times of war, conflict and peace, and to become involved in remembrance activities that will help to preserve their legacy for future generations.
Today we are reminded of the important contributions made by our Veterans so that we can live in a free and peaceful world. We take the time to remember those we lost and those who came home to build this great nation following victory in Europe during the Second World War. We will remember their sacrifices and honour their legacy. Lest we forget."
For more information on Canada’s VE-Day, please visit the Veterans Affairs Canada Web site at veterans.gc.ca.
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Media Enquiries:
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
