ST. JOHN'S, July 26, 2013 /CNW/ - On behalf of the Honourable Julian Fantino, Minister of Veterans Affairs, David Wells, Senator for Newfoundland and Labrador, today took part in a ceremony at the Caribou Veterans Memorial Pavilion to mark the 60th anniversary of the Korean War Armistice and the Year of the Korean War Veteran. Today's event included a wreath-laying ceremony followed by a special presentation of Government of Canada Certificates of Recognition to Korean War Veterans.
"Our Government is proud of what these remarkable Canadians accomplished during the Korean War," said Minister Fantino. "The Certificate of Recognition is a lasting reminder of the important contributions Canadian Veterans of the Korean War made to the peace and security we all enjoy today."
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 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.
"I'm so pleased to be here today to pay special tribute to Korean War Veterans residing at the Caribou Veterans Memorial Pavilion and all those who served alongside them," said Senator Wells. "The Korean War was one of Canada's most significant military engagements of the 20th century. Those who fought and made the ultimate sacrifice must never be forgotten."
This year, to mark this important milestone in our history, Veterans Affairs Canada 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 at 1-866-522-2122 or visiting 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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