October 17, 2013
Ottawa – The Honourable Julian Fantino, Minister of Veterans Affairs, today named Major-General (R) Richard Rohmer as his special advisor on D-Day commemorative events as the Government of Canada prepares for the upcoming 70th anniversary of D-Day and the Battle of Normandy on June 6, 2014.
“I am delighted that such a distinguished Veteran is sharing his experience and providing his input to the commemorative activities for D-Day, which many consider was the beginning of the end of the Second World War,” said Minister Fantino. “His incredible personal experience and expertise will help to ensure that Canada’s Veterans will be recognized and remembered on such an important anniversary.”
Major-General Rohmer will join Minister Fantino at an international ministerial seminar on the centennial of the First World War and the 70th anniversary of D-Day and the Battle of Normandy in Paris, France, attended by 23 countries. Discussions will focus on developing a common approach to international ceremonies that will begin in 2014.
Major-General Rohmer, who was a fighter pilot in the Second World War during the Battle of Normandy, has had a distinguished career and has a deep knowledge about Canada’s involvement in D-Day. He holds numerous decorations, including the Distinguished Flying Cross, Officer of the Order of Canada, Commander of the Order of Military Merit, Knight of the Order of St. John, Order of Ontario, Officer of the Order of Leopold (Belgium), and Knight of the Legion of Honour (France).
On the morning of June 6, 1944, known now as D-Day, Canadian and other Allied forces stormed the beaches of Normandy, supported by some 7,000 vessels and more than 11,500 aircraft. In the months that followed during the Battle of Normandy, more than 115,000 Canadian men and women served in a monumental series of events that would help signal the beginning of the end of the Second World War. More than 5,000 would lay down their lives during the campaign.
Canadians suffered the most casualties of any division in the British Army Group fighting in Normandy. Many made the ultimate sacrifice with their lives, while others returned home with injuries to body and mind.
As one of the most significant military engagements of the 20th century for Canada and for the world, D Day was a key episode that helped lead to the end of the Second World War.
Veterans Affairs Canada's support and services offer the right care at the right time to achieve the best results for Veterans and their families. Find out more at veterans.gc.ca.
-30-
