June 23, 2013
Ottawa – The Honourable Steven Blaney, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Minister for La Francophonie, today joined Senator Yonah Martin and hundreds of Korean War Veterans for a commemorative wreath-laying ceremony at the National War Memorial on the occasion of the 63rd anniversary of the outbreak of the Korean War during this milestone Year of the Korean War Veteran.
"Our Government values the contributions and sacrifices of all Canadian Veterans," said Minister Blaney. "Today, we come together to honour our Canadian Veterans who served during the Korean War. The bravery, sacrifices and accomplishments of our men and women in Korea continue to resonate there today, and I assure you, they will never be forgotten."
On June 25, 1950, armed forces from North Korea crossed the 38th parallel into the Republic of Korea, marking the beginning of hostilities throughout the country. More than 26,000 Canadian men and women joined combat forces from 15 other United Nations countries sent to Korea to restore peace. The active fighting ended with the signing of the Armistice at Panmunjom on July 27, 1953, though approximately 7,000 Canadians continued to serve in Korea until the end of 1955. Some Canadian troops remained in Korea until 1957.
"We must be grateful to all those who served in the Korean War and mourn the loss of the 516 Canadians who made the ultimate sacrifice," said Senator Martin. "Today’s ceremony is an important act of remembrance to honour the legacy of Canadians in Korea."
This wreath laying is part of the weekend in honour of Korean War Veterans. Veterans from across Canada and Veterans from Korea have come to Ottawa to remember and participate in events as part of the Year of the Korean War Veteran, which also celebrates 60 years since the signing of the Korean War Armistice.
2013 is the Year of the Korean War Veteran—Canada proudly remembers the heroes of the Korean War and their brave fight to uphold freedom, democracy and the rule of law. For more information on the Korean War, visit veterans.gc.ca.
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