OSHAWA, ON, May 25, 2013 /CNW/ - On behalf of the Honourable Steven Blaney, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Minister for La Francophonie, Corneliu Chisu, Member of Parliament for Pickering-Scarborough East, today attended and laid a wreath at the Korea Veterans Appreciation Day in Oshawa. Dr. Colin Carrie, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Health and Member of Parliament for Oshawa, and Chris Alexander, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of National Defence and Member of Parliament for Ajax-Pickering, were also in attendance and laid a wreath on behalf of the Government of Canada.
"The Korean War was one of Canada's most significant military engagements of the 20th century. Those who fought there, many of whom gave their lives, must not be forgotten," said Minister Blaney. "Our Government ensures younger generations are educated on the contributions of Canadian Veterans to our military history, as well as understanding the importance of remembering the sacrifices of all those who served and continue to serve our country today."
Today's event, hosted by the two area Royal Canadian Legion branches (Branch 43 and Branch 606), honoured Korean War Veterans with a traditional remembrance ceremony, a wreath laying, a plaque dedication, speeches from dignitaries as well as a military fly past. Following the ceremony, a luncheon with Korean cultural entertainment was held.
This year marks the 60th anniversary of the armistice that ended the active fighting in the Korean War and the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Canada and South Korea.
"Canadians are grateful to those who served in the Korean War and mourn the loss of 516 Canadians who made the ultimate sacrifice," said MP Chisu. "The Korean War, often referred to as the 'Forgotten War,' is an important part of Canada's military history. I commend RCL Branches 43 and 606 for ensuring that the legacy of the Korean War Veterans who served and sacrificed so much in the defence of freedom, democracy and the rule of law, is being preserved."
From 1950 to 1953, more than 26,000 Canadians served in Korea—working to restore peace and stability to the area. On July 27, 1953, the Korea Armistice Agreement was signed, ending three years of fighting. Approximately 7,000 Canadians continued to serve there between the signing of the armistice and the end of 1955. Some Canadian troops remained until 1957. In total, 516 brave young Canadians made the ultimate sacrifice during the Korean War.
2013 is the Year of the Korean War Veteran—Canada proudly remembers the heroes of the Korean War and their brave fight to uphold freedom, democracy and the rule of law. For more information on Canada's role in the Korean War, visit 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
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