Member of Parliament Pat Davidson Announces Funding to Restore Oil Springs Soldiers Monument

OIL SPRINGS, ON, Jan. 22, 2013 /CNW/ - On behalf of the Honourable Steven Blaney, Minister of Veterans Affairs, Pat Davidson, Member of Parliament for Sarnia-Lambton, today announced a contribution of up to $5,278 to restore the Oil Springs Soldiers Monument, which was erected in memory of those who lost their lives in the First World War.

"Our nation is forever indebted to the brave men and women in uniform who served, and those who continue to serve Canada today," said Minister Blaney. "Monuments are important symbols of the service and sacrifices of all Veterans and stand as lasting reminders of their legacy."

"On behalf of our Government, I commend the Village of Oil Springs for their efforts in preserving this sacred monument," said MP Davidson. "Future generations of this community are assured a dignified place to reflect and pay respect to the courage of Veterans for years to come."

Restoration work included building a new cement walkway and pad surrounding the monument, replacing the flagpole and engraving the missing names of several First World War servicemen. A new slab erected alongside the existing monument honours all who served Canada, with inscribed text in both French and English.

Funding for this initiative was provided through the Cenotaph/Monument Restoration Program. Through this program, the Government of Canada works in partnership with community groups and local organizations to ensure that cenotaphs and monuments honouring our nation's heroes are conserved to the highest standard of care and dignity.

Applications to this program can be submitted at any time during the year and are reviewed on a quarterly basis. Interested non-profit groups and other organizations may be eligible for funding. For more information, please 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
613-996-4649