Canada’s military men and women have accomplished and sacrificed so much, and they have inspired pride across this country. Canada owes a debt of gratitude to the men and women who have served in uniform, for the peace and freedom we enjoy today.

“Any event that brings professional athletes and Veterans together, like the Grey Cup Meet and Greet, is a special one. Sport has been an important part of the Canadian military for generations and this event is a great way to pay tribute to those who served—and continue to serve—our country. I thank the Canadian Football League for making this event possible.”

Seamus O’Regan, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence

“The Grey Cup symbolizes excellence, perseverance and teamwork. The same can be said for the members of our Canadian Armed Forces and our Veterans. And so it is fitting that the CFL and the Grey Cup are here today at Perley Rideau. I’d like to thank the CFL for their continued commitment to Canadian Veterans.”

Sherry Romanado, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence

“The CFL community and indeed all Canadians owe an enormous and lifelong debt of gratitude to our Veterans. This opportunity to meet and share our stories is a truly special one. I’m honoured to be able to share Canada’s trophy with those who have served our country in such an important way and pay tribute to their bravery.”

Randy Ambrosie, Commissioner, Canadian Football League

• The Grey Cup Meet and Greet event is a collaboration between Veterans Affairs Canada and the Canadian Football League (CFL).

• Throughout Canada’s military history, there has been a deep connection and longstanding relationship between sports and military service. In fact, during the First and Second World Wars and the Korean War, serving Canadians often participated in ‘games days’ and other official and unofficial athletic contests.

• 2017 is a special year of commemoration for Canada, including Canada 150, the 100^th anniversaries of the Battle of Vimy Ridge and the Battle of Passchendaele, and the 75^th anniversary of the Dieppe Raid.

• Since Confederation, more than 2.3 million Canadians have served in uniform to defend freedom and democracy—with more than 118,000 having given their lives.

• The Government of Canada has improved the services and benefits offered to Veterans and their caregivers and families. To all Veterans, members of the Canadian Armed Forces and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, and their families—Veterans Affairs Canada is here for you. Learn how we can help at veterans.gc.ca/services.

Associated Links

• Canadian Football League
• Veterans Affairs Canada - Remembrance

Media Relations
Veterans Affairs Canada
613-992-7468
vac.media-medias.acc@vac-acc.gc.ca

Alex Wellstead
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Veterans Affairs
613-996-4649

Lucas Barrett
Coordinator, Communications
Canadian Football League
Phone: 416-865-4066 
Mobile: 416-802-7852
lbarrett@cfl.ca