August 22, 2013
Sarnia, Ontario – The Honourable Julian Fantino, Minister of Veterans Affairs, and Pat Davidson, Member of Parliament for Sarnia–Lambton, today joined together with Veterans, their families and members of the Sarnia community at a special luncheon to honour Korean War Veterans.
"We are grateful to all the brave men and women who served during the Korean War and we mourn the loss of the 516 Canadians who gave their lives in the defence of freedom,” said Minister Fantino. "Events like this remind us that time will never diminish the pride that all Canadians share for the men and women who have served our country. I commend my colleague, MP Pat Davidson, for her success in rallying the members of the community to remember the important contributions of these brave Canadians."
Minister Fantino and MP Davidson presented personalized certificates of recognition to all Korean War Veterans in attendance, in honour of their service to Canada.
"These remarkable Canadians, the extraordinary Veterans before us today—and those who have passed on—insist that they only did their duty. But we know they accomplished extraordinary things and we are here to honour and remember their sacrifices," said MP Davidson. "Our Government is committed to preserving our Veterans’ legacy and ensuring that younger generations are aware of the important contribution of Canada’s Veterans to our nation’s history."
This year marks the 60th anniversary of the Armistice that ended the active fighting in the Korean War and the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Canada and South Korea.
From 1950 to 1953, more than 26,000 Canadians served in Korea—working to restore peace and stability to the area. On July 27, 1953, the Korea Armistice Agreement was signed, ending three years of fighting. Approximately 7,000 Canadians continued to serve there between the signing of the Armistice and the end of 1955. Some Canadian troops remained until 1957. In total, 516 brave young Canadians made the ultimate sacrifice during the Korean War.
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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Janice Summerby
Media Relations Advisor
Veterans Affairs Canada
Phone: 613-992-7468
Joshua Zanin
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Veterans Affairs
Phone: 613-996-4649
All Other Enquiries:
information@vac-acc.gc.ca
