August 9, 2013
Québec City – On behalf of the Honourable Julian Fantino, Minister of Veterans Affairs, Jacques Gourde, Member of Parliament for Lotbinière–Chutes-de-la-Chaudière, today attended the third annual Honouring our Peacekeepers ceremony held at Place George V, in Québec City. Veterans and current members of the Canadian Armed Forces, as well as representatives of police forces and of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, were also present to mark the important role played by Canadian peacekeepers around the world.
“Today is an opportunity to reflect on our peacekeepers’ activities and their positive impact around the world,” stated Minister Fantino. “We can be proud of the achievements of Canadians; they risked their lives to ensure security in dangerous areas and to provide humanitarian assistance. They are courageous people who have demonstrated selflessness in carrying out their missions.”
“This evening, we pay tribute to Canadians who have promoted peace around the world,” mentioned MP Gourde. “Today’s ceremony is dedicated to remembering the contributions and commitment of past and present Canadian peacekeepers who were able to make a real difference in the war-torn communities where they were posted.”
Since it was officially established in Canada in 2008, National Peacekeepers’ Day has been an opportunity for Canadians to express their pride in and gratitude to the Canadian Armed Forces, Canadian diplomats, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, provincial and municipal police forces, as well as civilians at home and abroad who have been involved in international peacekeeping and security operations.
The Quebec Aboriginal Veterans Association, the main organizer of the ceremony in Québec City, will receive up to $4,900 in funding from the Community Engagement Partnership Fund. The Community Engagement Partnership Fund is a program that provides funding to not-for profit organizations, educational institutions and other groups interested in planning remembrance initiatives.
2013 is the Year of the Korean War Veteran—Canada proudly remembers the heroes of the Korean War and their brave fight to defend the Republic of Korea and uphold freedom, democracy and the rule of law. For more information on Canada’s role in the Korean War, visit veterans.gc.ca.
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