May 4, 2014 - CFB Trenton, Ontario
The Soldier On Afghanistan Relay got underway today, with 19 Canadians who suffered an illness or injury in Afghanistan starting the final journey of the last Canadian flag to fly at the International Security Assistance Force Headquarters in Kabul, Afghanistan. The Relay team is running, walking and wheeling the flag from Trenton, Ontario to Ottawa, Ontario as a way to thank Canadians for their incredible support throughout the mission, to honour the sacrifices of our Nation, and to raise awareness of the support available to ill and injured members and veterans.
The relay commenced following a ceremony at the Afghanistan Repatriation Memorial in Trenton, at the beginning of the Highway of Heroes, which runs from Trenton to Toronto.
The Canadian flag will arrive on Parliament Hill for the National Day of Honour Ceremony on May 9, 2014, and will be presented to the Prime Minister, who will accept the flag on behalf of all Canadians.
“Soldier On exemplifies the strength and resiliency of the Canadian Armed Forces. The Soldier On Afghanistan Relay is a testament to the hundreds of military members, veterans and civilians who tirelessly work to overcome their physical or mental illness or injury. I am inspired and humbled by their determination and courage.”
The Honourable Rob Nicholson, PC, QC, MP for Niagara Falls and Minister of National Defence
“The Soldier On Afghanistan Relay today, symbolically starting from the Afghanistan Repatriation Memorial, reaffirms our commitment to never forget those who died in the line of duty, and to continue to provide quality care and support for those who were injured or became ill as a result of the mission. The team participating in the Relay, and all Canadian Armed Forces personnel who have been ill or injured, confront physical, mental, and emotional challenges as they proceed along the path of recovery, rehabilitation, and reintegration. They are helped along that path by the support of their families, their friends, and their brothers and sisters in arms, and by the fact that Canadians across the country are proud of their service. I know that you will continue to support them, both today and in the future.”
Major-General David Millar, Chief of Military Personnel
Media Relations
Department of National Defence
Phone: (613) 996-2353
Toll-Free: 1 866 377-0811
