Government of Canada Participates in Bastille Day Military Parade in Paris

100^th anniversary of the First World War is focus of world-famous parade

PARIS, France, July 14, 2014 /CNW/ - The Honourable Peter Van Loan, Member of Parliament for York–Simcoe and Leader of the Government in the House of Commons, today led a Canadian delegation to participate in the Bastille Day Military Parade in Paris, France, as part of Canada's efforts to mark the 100^th anniversary of the start of the First World War. Also known as Grand Défilé militaire, the theme of the 2014 parade is the Centenary of the First World War.

To mark the 2014 centenary, the parade was expanded this year to include youth, along with the traditional military presence. Canada was represented by Canadian youth working in France at the Canadian National Vimy Memorial and Beaumont-Hamel Newfoundland Memorial. In addition, members of the Canadian Armed Forces also participated in the parade along with troops from around the world.

Quick Facts

• The Bastille Day Military Parade is the oldest military parade in the world, held annually since 1880.
• The parade is one of the largest celebrations on Bastille Day, a French national holiday.
• Canada entered the First World War on August 4, 1914.

Quotes

"As part of the 100^th anniversary commemorations of the First World War, it is an honour for Canada to participate in such a historic military parade. This unique event will unite youth and serving armed forces members from around the world to remember the sacrifices of so many."
The Honourable Julian Fantino, Minister of Veterans Affairs

"Our government recognizes the importance of the First and Second World Wars to our national history and identity. We gather to honour those who served and continue to serve for freedom and democracy."
The Honourable Peter Van Loan, Member of Parliament for York–Simcoe and Leader of the Government in the House of Commons

Associated Links

• Backgrounder: Canadian youth
• Canada Remembers the First World War feature
• Canada Remembers Facebook page
• Veterans Affairs Canada Flickr photo stream
• Veterans Affairs Canada Twitter feed

SOURCE: Veterans Affairs Canada

Barbara Mottram, Director of Communications, Office of the Minister of Veterans Affairs, 613-996-4649; Media Relations, Veterans Affairs Canada, 613-992-7468