OTTAWA, April 9, 2013 /CNW/ - The Honourable Steven Blaney, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Minister for La Francophonie, issued the following statement today regarding the 96th anniversary of the Battle of Vimy Ridge.
"Ninety-six years ago on Easter Monday, April 9, 1917, the four divisions of the Canadian Corps attacked Vimy Ridge and earned Canada a place on the international stage. The glory won on that day sadly came at a heavy cost—almost 3,600 brave Canadians lost their lives in this triumph.
"One of Canada's most impressive tributes now stands on the battlefield of Vimy Ridge. The majestic Canadian National Vimy Memorial stands as a reminder of the heroic battle and as a tribute to the brave men and women who served their country during the First World War.
"They defended with honour the values upon which our country was founded: freedom, democracy and the rule of law.
"Ninety-six years after that fateful day, we remember our proud history and those who fought in this historical battle which marked the birth of our proud and modern Canada."
For more information on the Battle of Vimy Ridge, please visit veterans.gc.ca.
SOURCE: Veterans Affairs Canada
Media inquiries:
Janice Summerby
Media Relations Advisor
Veterans Affairs Canada
613-992-7468
Jean-Christophe de le Rue
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Veterans Affairs
613-996-4649
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