WESTVILLE, NS, July 27, 2013 /CNW/ - On behalf of the Honourable Julian Fantino, Minister of Veterans Affairs, the Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, today honoured Korean War Veterans from Pictou County by presenting certificates of recognition during a special event organized in their honour. Today's event was one of dozens taking place across the country this weekend to mark the 60th anniversary of the Korean War Armistice and the Year of the Korean War Veteran. Today also officially marks the first annual Korean War Veterans Day across Canada.
"The Korean War was one of Canada's most significant military engagements of the 20th century," said Minister Fantino. "As Canadians gather from coast to coast to coast to pay tribute to those who fought there, many giving their lives, we are reminded of how truly blessed we are as a nation thanks to those who stood up 60 years ago to defend Canadian values."
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 continued to serve there 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 war.
"Korean War Veterans Day is a poignant national day of remembrance dedicated to honouring those who fought on the side of the United Nations in the Korean War," said Minister MacKay. "Especially the hundreds of Canadians who made the ultimate sacrifice in the name of freedom and democracy. We are committed to remembering what they so bravely did."
This year, to mark this important milestone in our history, Veterans Affairs Canada has created a special certificate of recognition to honour Veterans of the Korean War on behalf of a grateful nation. Canadian Veterans of the Korean War can request a certificate by contacting the Department by phone at 1-866-522-2122 or online at 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
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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