Minister of National Defence delivers remarks for Remembrance Day
Video / November 11, 2024
Transcript
Members of the Canadian Armed Forces, past and present, have bravely defended our borders and protected our citizens, standing ready in the face of challenges at home and abroad.
On Remembrance Day, Canadians pause to honour their service and sacrifice.
Throughout Canada’s history, the Canadian Armed Forces have defended and promoted the freedoms and values we hold dear—freedoms we must not take for granted, freedoms that generations have fought to protect.
From Vimy Ridge to Juno Beach,
From Korea to Afghanistan,
And on missions around the globe,
Canadian Armed Forces members have demonstrated Canada’s enduring tradition of service before self.
Today, we remember those who never returned home; and those who returned with wounds both inside and out;
We remember those who fought;
They fought for freedom, peace, and democracy – they fought for us.
We pause to remember the families who have endured the profound loss of a loved one who has fallen while serving Canada.
And we carry a debt of gratitude to the families and loved ones, who are by the side of our brave Armed Forces members. Today, we pause for them too.
In schools, students recite “In Flanders Fields” to honour the legacy of those who served.
And Canadians across the country wear the poppy in memory of those fallen.
The poppy is a solemn reminder of the lives lost and the sacrifices made for our country. A tribute to those who gave their lives for freedom.
It is a symbol that we will never forget our veterans and the price they paid.
The legacy of our veterans is carried forward by members of our Armed Forces, who continue to protect and serve our nation today.
At home and around the world, they are recognized for their courage, their honour, and their commitment to service.
And today, as we mark Remembrance Day, let us honour all those who have served our country both past and present.
Lest we forget. We will remember them.
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