OTTAWA, ON - Today, the Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence, issued the following statement on the official launch of True Patriot Love Expedition Himalayas:
“Today marks a special day as the True Patriot Love Foundation launches the True Patriot Love Expedition: Himalayas. This remarkable opportunity, in support of wounded and ill soldiers, will allow injured reservists and retired Canadian Forces soldiers to challenge themselves both physically and mentally as they embark on a journey to conquer Everest Base Camp and Island Peak.
Recovery and rehabilitation are essential for these men and women as they return home to their loved ones after defending Canadian values and interests, at home and abroad. This unique initiative will allow these determined members of the Defence Family to challenge themselves under the most intense conditions while raising awareness of operational stress injuries and mental health initiatives, and providing military family support for outstanding organizations like the Military Family Fund, Soldier On, and Military Family Resource Centres across Canada.
I want to wish the very best of luck to all the participants as they begin their training tomorrow. The road ahead will no doubt be challenging, but I am confident that their strength and resilience will carry them through this next adventure. Their dedication and will to succeed on this journey is an inspiration to all Canadians.
I look forward to following the expedition’s progress once their journey begins on October 7th, and to learning of their milestones including their arrival at Everest Base Camp and beginning the trek to the 21,000 foot summit of Island Peak. “
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