Reference: N14039E
Date: May 8, 2014
Ottawa – The Honourable Julian Fantino, Minister of Veterans Affairs, issued the following statement today regarding the 69th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day (V-E Day):
"Starting in February 1945, the First Canadian Army helped lead the final Allied offensives against Germany from Western Europe. By the spring, the Germans had surrendered, and on May 8, 1945, with the guns having finally fallen silent, the war in Europe was officially declared over. As Canadians remember V-E Day 69 years later, its emotional impact can still be felt.
"V-E Day and the end of the war in Europe were celebrated on both sides of the Atlantic. In Toronto, there was city-wide rejoicing, with thousands singing and dancing in parks and in the streets while tickertape rained down on the crowds.
"Canadian Veterans have recalled how, after V-E Day was proclaimed and their new orders were received, they experienced a range of strong emotions, from joy at the news of peace, to deep sorrow for their lost comrades. Some began working directly with German troops to restore communications and secure the region.
"By the end of the Second World War, more than one million Canadians and Newfoundlanders had put their lives on the line. Sadly, more than 45,000 of them never returned home. Today, Canada remembers their service with pride, grateful for their courageous dedication to freedom and peace."
For more information on Canada’s V-E Day, please visit the Veterans Affairs Canada website at veterans.gc.ca.
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Nicholas Bergamini
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Veterans Affairs
613-996-4649
Media Relations
Veterans Affairs Canada
613-992-7468
