Reference: N14048E
Ottawa – The Honourable Julian Fantino, Minister of Veterans Affairs, today issued the following statement to mark the 112th anniversary of the end of the South African War:
"The South African War, which was fought between 1899 and 1902, saw many Canadians put their lives on the line in a significant international military effort far from home. This was the first time large numbers of Canadian soldiers served overseas and the first time Canadian women served abroad with the military.
"In total, more than 7,000 Canadians volunteered for service during the conflict, including 12 Nursing Sisters. The war ended with the signing of the Treaty of Vereeniging on May 31, 1902.
"Approximately 280 Canadians lost their lives and more than 250 were wounded. The names of the fallen are recorded in the South African War / Nile Expedition Book of Remembrance, which is displayed in the Memorial Chamber of the Peace Tower, on Parliament Hill.
"On this day, Canada remembers the heroic efforts of those who fought for our country. Today, we remember the South African War."
For more information on the South African War, please visit veterans.gc.ca. For more information about the Books of Remembrance, please visit virtualmemorial.gc.ca.
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Barbara Mottram
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Veterans Affairs
613-996-4649
Media Relations
Veterans Affairs Canada
613-992-7468
