DIEPPE, NB, Aug. 18, 2013 /CNW/ - On behalf of the Honourable Julian Fantino, Minister of Veterans, Robert Goguen, Member of Parliament for Moncton-Riverview-Dieppe, today marked the 71st anniversary of the Dieppe Raid at a ceremony held at the Dieppe Cenotaph.
"The Raid on Dieppe was one of Canada's most tragic military engagements of the 20th century," said Minister Fantino. "Although many lost their lives on that fateful day, it was not in vain. Lessons learned from the events of that day contributed greatly to the success of D-Day two years later, and in turn, the end of the Second World War. Those who fought there must never be forgotten. Our Government is committed to commemorating their sacrifices and achievements and we encourage all Canadians to do the same."
Of the nearly 5,000 Canadians who participated in the Dieppe Raid, code-named Operation Jubilee, only 2,210 returned to England and many of them were wounded. Tragically, more than 900 Canadians died during the raid. The Canadians who participated in the Dieppe Raid were among the more than one million men and women from Canada who served during the Second World War. The efforts of all of these Canadians helped ensure that victory was achieved.
"As first-hand stories of the Second World War grow fewer, the importance of remembering the sacrifices and achievements made by Canadians in the cause of peace and freedom increases," said MP Goguen. "Thanks to community groups like the Dieppe Military Veterans' Association and events like the one here today, we help ensure the torch of remembrance will continue to burn brightly for future generations."
For more information on the Dieppe Raid or for a list of commemorative events taking place in your community, visit veterans.gc.ca. You can also share your thoughts on the 71st anniversary at Facebook.com/CanadaRemembers.
2013 is the Year of the Korean War Veteran—Canada proudly remembers the heroes of the Korean War and their brave fight to defend the Republic of Korea and 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
Joshua Zanin
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Veterans Affairs
613-996-4649
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