July 24, 2012
Annapolis Royal, NS – On behalf of the Honourable Steven Blaney, Minister of Veterans Affairs, Greg Kerr, Member of Parliament for West Nova, today announced a contribution of up to $18,292 to rebuild an Annapolis Royal memorial honouring area Veterans and those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
"It is our sacred duty to remember and honour our Veterans and the brave service men and women who serve Canada so selflessly," said Minister Blaney. "Restoring war memorials can inspire a renewed sense of remembrance in a community. This is why our Government is proud to support projects that help honour the sacrifices of our Veterans and our service men and women."
"I commend the members of Branch 21 of the Royal Canadian Legion (Port Royal) for their dedication in restoring their local monument," said Mr. Kerr. "Our Government is very pleased to support communities in looking after local places of remembrance to ensure Canadians of all ages learn about and remember those who fought for the peace and freedom we enjoy today."
Built in 1953, the original Port Royal Branch 21 Monument was erected in Annapolis Royal in grateful memory of those who made the supreme sacrifice in the Second World War. Planned restoration work includes rebuilding the monument, which had to be demolished for safety reasons. Three original brass plaques and several other components salvaged from the original structure will be reinstalled on the new monument. Plans also include incorporation of the original surface stones on the grounds surrounding the monument and the addition of elements recognizing those who lost their lives in the First World War, the Korean War, and later conflicts.
Funding for this project is provided through the Cenotaph/Monument Restoration Program. Through this program, our Government works in partnership with community groups and local organizations to ensure that cenotaphs and monuments honouring our nation's heroes are conserved to the highest standard of care and dignity.
Applications to this program can be submitted at any time during the year and are reviewed on a quarterly basis. Interested non-profit groups and other organizations may be eligible for funding. For more information, please visit veterans.gc.ca.
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Janice Summerby
Media Relations Advisor
Veterans Affairs Canada
Phone: 613-992-7468
Jean-Christophe de le Rue
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Veterans Affairs
Phone: 613-996-4649
All Other Enquiries:
information@vac-acc.gc.ca
