Member of Parliament Joy Smith Participates in Ceremony to Mark 60th Anniversary of the Korean War Armistice

WINNIPEG, July 27, 2013 /CNW/ - On behalf of the Honourable Julian Fantino, Minister of Veterans Affairs, Joy Smith, Member of Parliament for Kildonan-St. Paul, today joined members of the Korea Veterans Association of Canada, Unit 17, to mark the 60^th anniversary of the Korean War Armistice and to honour Canada's Korean War Veterans.

"Throughout our nation's history, Canadians have been asked to defend and sacrifice for the values of peace and freedom around the world," said Minister Fantino. "There is no greater example of a nation that has honoured that sacrifice than that demonstrated by the Republic of Korea. What they have built since the Armistice is a strong, lasting democracy and economy, admired the world over."

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 Korean War Armistice was signed, ending three years of fighting. Some 7,000 Canadians served between the signing of the Armistice and the end of 1955, with some Canadian troops remaining until 1957. In total, 516 brave young Canadians made the ultimate sacrifice while serving during the Korean War.

"Today, we commemorate the role these brave men and women played during the Korean War," said Member of Parliament Smith. "Our Government is proud to honour their sacrifices and contributions. Ceremonies like these ensure that we continue to have an appreciation of the courage and heroism displayed by those who served in 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

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Joshua Zanin
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Office of the Minister of Veterans Affairs
613-996-4649