65th Anniversary of the Battle of Kapyong

Statement

Ottawa – The Honourable Kent Hehr, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence, and the Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of National Defence, issued the following statement today regarding the 65th anniversary of the Battle of Kapyong, which took place during the Korean War.

“Today we remember the legacy of those who fought in the Battle of Kapyong. It is regarded by many as the most significant Canadian action of the Korean War. Despite being surrounded and even overrun at times by a much larger enemy force, the Canadians held the line. Their brave actions helped to prevent a potentially costly defeat, and their sacrifices have ensured a more peaceful and prosperous world,” said Minister Hehr.

“Our country’s contributions during the Battle of Kapyong did not go unnoticed. The 2nd Battalion of Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry was awarded the United States Presidential Unit Citation—a rare honour for a Canadian unit. In total, more than 26,000 Canadians served in the Korean War (1950-1953) and 516 made the ultimate sacrifice. We remember and honour their service to Canada,” added Minister Sajjan.

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Contacts:

Media Relations
Veterans Affairs Canada
613-992-7468

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