Remembrance activities pay tribute to local Veterans - MP James Bezan announces support for commemorative projects in Manitoba

ARGYLE, MB, Nov. 7, 2014 /CNW/ - James Bezan, Member of Parliament for Selkirk–Interlake, today announced Government of Canada support for two local projects paying tribute to Canada's brave men and women who have served in uniform. MP Bezan made the announcement on behalf of the Honourable Julian Fantino, Minister of Veterans Affairs. 

The Settlers, Rails and Trails Museum will receive $2,343 for an exhibition which shares stories of local Veterans and residents and highlights their contributions to the World Wars at three local Remembrance Day services. The exhibit commemorates 160 years of military heritage through photographs of 140 local Veterans and local artifacts. It will be available for public viewing on November 10-11, and is expected to bring together 500 youth and local Veterans.

The Riverton and District Friendship Centre' will receive $2,500 for a sod-turning event for the soon-to-be-constructed Aboriginal Veterans' Monument. The new memorial will be dedicated to First Nation, Métis and Inuit Veterans while also honouring all Veterans who served. The event will take place November 8, Aboriginal Veterans Day, in Riverton.    

Quick Facts

Today's funding announcement represents over $4,800 for these two community-led Manitoban groups through Veterans Affairs Canada's Community Engagement Partnership Fund.

Since 2006, the Government of Canada has approved more than $13 million, through the Community Engagement Partnership Fund, for projects that recognize traditional and modern-day Canadian Veterans and those who died in service.

During the month of November, Canadians come together to honour those who have sacrificed to make our world a safer place. Learn more at veterans.gc.ca/iremember

Quotes

"Honouring and commemorating the heroic acts of generations of men and women who have served our nation is a duty bestowed on all Canadians. Our Government is pleased to support organizations that pay tribute to our Veterans' service and sacrifices."
The Honourable Julian Fantino, Minister of Veterans Affairs

"Both of these organizations help to bring life to a chapter of our history. As we prepare to celebrate Remembrance Day, I would encourage all Manitobans to take the time to reflect on those who gave so much for our country."
James Bezan, Member of Parliament for Selkirk–Interlake

Associated Links

• Community Engagement Partnership Fund
• Remembrance: veterans.gc.ca/iremember

SOURCE: Veterans Affairs Canada

Ashlee Smith, Press Secretary, Office of the Minister of Veterans Affairs, 613-996-4649; Media Relations, Veterans Affairs Canada, 613-992-7468