May 26, 2015
OTTAWA — Vice-Admiral Mark Norman, Commander of the Royal Canadian Navy, issued the following statement today regarding the port visit of His Netherlands Majesty’s Ship (HNLMS) Karel Doorman for the 70th anniversary of the Liberation of the Netherlands:
“To the commander and sailors of HNLMS Karel Doorman, it is my sincere pleasure to welcome you for your four-day port visit to Montreal.
“This visit is of particular significance as, at the heart of the visit, is the commemoration of the 70th anniversary of the Liberation of the Netherlands. Almost, 175,000 Canadian soldiers of the First Canadian Army played a leading role in the Liberation of the Netherlands and its people from Nazi occupation. This commemoration reaffirms the unique and enduring bond between the militaries of Canada and the Netherlands and the ongoing importance of memorializing our shared sacrifice in preserving freedom. As part of this important event, the Orchestra of the Royal Netherlands Airforce will present a “Tribute to the Veterans” concert on board of HNLMS Karel Doorman.
“Your visit will, I am sure, be enjoyable. Canada and the Netherlands share many common traits; we are maritime countries and share similar views and approaches to international peace and security. Our countries are both founding members of NATO and are firmly committed to the Alliance and strong trans-Atlantic relations, having recently fought side by side in Afghanistan, and we are very much looking forward to the visit of HNLMS Karel Doorman to Montreal.”
Lieutenant-Commander Alain Boucher
514-283-6517 ext.208
alain.boucher2@forces.gc.ca
For more information on the Royal Canadian Navy please visit www.navy-marine.forces.gc.ca or follow us @RCN_MRC @RCN_MARLANT
Media Relations
Department of National Defence
Phone: 613-996-2353
Toll-Free: 1-866-377-0811
Email: mlo-blm@forces.gc.ca
