Minister of Veterans Affairs joins youth in honouring Veterans at commemorative ceremony in Ottawa

Annual Candlelight Tribute remembers those who have served and those who made the ultimate sacrifice

OTTAWA, Nov. 4, 2014 /CNW/ - Today, the Honourable Julian Fantino, Minister of Veterans Affairs, and His Worship Jim Watson, Mayor of the City of Ottawa, will honour Canada's Veterans at the 15^th Annual Candlelight Tribute at the Centrepointe Theatre in Ottawa.

During tonight's ceremony, a symbolic passing of the torch of remembrance will take place, whereby Veterans and Canadian Armed Forces personnel will pass candles to youth in honour of all who have served to ensure Canada remains strong, proud and free. As part of the Veterans commemorative street naming program, a street sign will be presented to the family of an honoured Veteran. This will mark the first occasion where a female Veteran will receive this honour.

Quick Facts

• The 15^th Annual Candlelight Tribute, co-hosted by the Minister of Veterans Affairs and the City of Ottawa, will take place on November 4, 2014, at 7:00 p.m. at the Centrepointe Theatre, Ben Franklin Place, 101 Centrepointe Drive, Ottawa.
• In 2005, as part of the celebrations for the Year of the Veteran, the City of Ottawa, in partnership with Veterans Affairs Canada, the Royal Canadian Legion and local private developers, launched a commemorative street naming program to honour local Ottawa Veterans. The presentation of the street sign takes place during the Candlelight Tribute for Veterans every year in the month of November.

Quotes

"It is inspiring to see young Canadians participating in commemorative events through which they can obtain an appreciation and understanding of the service and sacrifices made by the men and women who have courageously served our nation."
The Honourable Julian Fantino, Minister of Veterans Affairs

"As we open Veterans' Week, and mark the 100^th anniversary of Canada's call to action in the First World War, the tragic events of October 22^nd remind us that much more needs to be done to fulfill humanity's promise. Tonight's ceremony provides Canadians, particularly youth, with the opportunity to honour each and every woman and man who has stood in defence of Canada."
His Worship Jim Watson, Mayor of Ottawa

Related Links

• Remembrance
• World Wars Commemoration
• City of Ottawa

 

SOURCE: Veterans Affairs Canada

Barbara Mottram, Director of Communications, Office of the Minister of Veterans Affairs, 613-996-4649; Media Relations, Veterans Affairs Canada, 613-992-7468