Member of Parliament Bob Zimmer Attends Wartime Supper with Veterans and Students from Across Canada

OTTAWA, Nov. 8, 2012 /CNW/ - On behalf of the Honourable Steven Blaney, Minister of Veterans Affairs, Bob Zimmer, Member of Parliament for Prince George-Peace River, today joined Veterans and students from across the country for a modest supper reminiscent of what Canadians would have eaten during the Second World War in order to ration food supplies and support our troops on the front lines.

"This wartime supper helps these youth understand the contribution of Canadians on the home front during the Second World War," said Minister Blaney. "It is a unique way for them to learn about life in Canada during those times and it ensures that our youth remember the sacrifices of the men and women who have served our country."

One hundred and fifteen students and staff at the Terry Fox Canadian Youth Centre sat down to the wartime supper with local Veterans who were invited as guests of honour. The meal is held each year as part the "Canada Remembers" theme week at the Historica-Dominion Institute's Encounters with Canada program.

"I congratulate the students for taking part in the Encounters with Canada program," said MP Zimmer. "Through programs like this, today's youth are helping to ensure Canada's future generations will remember the brave men and women who fought for the freedom we enjoy today."

Veterans Affairs Canada supports the remembrance component of the Encounters with Canada program with $50,000 in annual funding through the Community Engagement Partnership Fund, which provides financial assistance to non-profit groups and organizations promoting local commemorative activities.

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