Minister Lynne Yelich Participates in Ceremony to Mark 60th Anniversary of the Korean War Armistice

SASKATOON, SK, July 27, 2013 /CNW/ - On behalf of the Honourable Julian Fantino, Minister of Veterans Affairs, the Honourable Lynne Yelich, Minister of State (Foreign Affairs and Consular), today joined members of the Korea Veterans Association of Canada, Unit 46, to mark the 60^th anniversary of the Korean War Armistice and to honour Canada's Korean War Veterans.

"Today, we commemorate the legacy of those Canadians who served in the first major international crisis following the end of the Second World War," said Minister Fantino. "More than 26,000 Canadians served in the Korean War and 516 lost their lives in the name of peace and freedom."

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 during the Korean War.

"2013 is the Year of the Korean War Veteran in Canada and the 60^th anniversary of the Korean War Armistice," said Minister Yelich. "As Canadians, we need to take a moment to pay tribute to the many lives forever changed by the Korean War. Six decades later, the legacy of these men and women lives on and will continue to do so for decades to come."

Through the Community Engagement Partnership Fund, Veterans Affairs Canada will provide financial support of up to $3,100 to Unit 46 of the Korea Veterans Association of Canada in support of this event.

The Community Engagement Partnership Fund provides funding for non-profit organizations, educational institutions and other groups interested in planning remembrance initiatives. Funding applications are accepted throughout the year. For more information, please visit veterans.gc.ca.

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

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