VALCARTIER, QUEBEC -- (Marketwire) -- 09/30/11 -- Editors Note: There is a photo associated with this press release.
The Honourable Steven Blaney, Minister of Veterans Affairs, today made the following statement at a ceremony honouring the Canadian soldiers who had participated in the last rotation of the Canadian Forces mission to Afghanistan:
"At an event such as this, words are often unable to fully convey what we feel. This is an occasion for celebration, pride, and perhaps even sorrow.
"Your return home is a source of joy to all of us, especially to your families, who have hoped and prayed for this day.
"It is an occasion for pride, because you have completed a demanding and perilous mission with the same courage and selflessness as those generations of Canadian soldiers who have marked the history of our country with their valour. Please accept our congratulations and our thanks.
"It also may be an occasion of sadness as we think of those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
"In Afghanistan, you maintained the core values for which Canada is known: peace, freedom, human rights and the rule of law.
"As Minister of Veterans Affairs, I feel it is vital that Canadians become more aware of the incredible sacrifices and accomplishments of our men and women in uniform.
"You have given much for your country and for a cause for which Canada has never spared any sacrifice. You jeopardized what you hold most dear. You are not only inspiring role models, but also the pride of our country. And Canada thanks you."
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Contacts:
Media Inquiries:
Janice Summerby
Media Relations Advisor
Veterans Affairs Canada
613-992-7468
Codie Taylor
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Veterans Affairs
613-996-4649
Jean-Pierre J. Godbout
Communications Advisor, Quebec Region
Veterans Affairs Canada
514-283-2198 Cell: 514-209-1622