OTTAWA, Nov. 10, 2012 /CNW/ - On behalf of the Honourable Steven Blaney, Minister of Veterans Affairs, Mr. Royal Galipeau, Member of Parliament for Ottawa-Orléans, and His Excellency Hee-yong Cho, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea for Canada, this evening joined Veterans and men and women in uniform of the Canadian Armed Forces in a commemorative wreath-laying ceremony at the Ottawa City Hall to remember and honour Canada's sacrifice in the Korean War.
"Fifty-nine years ago, in 1953, the Armistice was signed to end the Korean War. Since then, every year we recognize and remember the commitment of more than 26,000 brave Canadians who served in Korea, and the 516 Canadians who gave their lives during the war," said Minister Blaney.
In its sixth consecutive year, the "Turn to Busan" ceremony coincides with the Remembrance Day ceremony held at the United Nations Memorial Cemetery in Busan, Republic of Korea. The event is organized by the National Capital Unit of the Korea Veterans Association of Canada.
"The Government of Canada is dedicated to commemorating the sacrifices and achievements of the brave Canadians whose legacy is the peace and security we continue to enjoy as Canadians," said MP Royal Galipeau. "During Veterans' Week, we pay tribute to all Canadian Veterans and continue to honour those who serve our country today."
The Korean War began on June 25, 1950, when North Korean forces invaded South Korea, beginning hostilities that lasted more than three years. Canada, along with 15 other United Nations countries, contributed to the combat efforts to try to restore peace to the troubled land. Ceasefire negotiations began in 1951, two years before the fighting finally ended with the signing of the Armistice at Panmunjom on July 27, 1953. Following the Armistice, approximately 7,000 Canadians continued to serve in the Korean theatre until the end of 1955, with some troops remaining until 1957.
This Veterans' Week, take time to remember by attending a Remembrance Day ceremony, visiting a local cenotaph or monument, sharing your thoughts of remembrance online, or wearing a poppy with pride. Learn more and find remembrance events and activities in your area at veterans.gc.ca.
SOURCE: Veterans Affairs Canada
Media inquiries:
Janice Summerby
Media Relations Advisor
Veterans Affairs Canada
613-992-7468
Jean-Christophe de le Rue
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Veterans Affairs
613-996-4649
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