Canada Pays Tribute to All Who Served at a Remembrance Ceremony at the Canadian National Vimy Memorial

VIMY, France, Nov. 10, 2013 /CNW/ - Canadian and French citizens gathered today at the Canadian National Vimy Memorial, in France, to pay tribute to the men and women who have served their countries from the First World War to current missions.

The Government of Canada representative, the Honourable Lawrence Cannon, Canadian Ambassador to France, addressed the gathering on behalf of the Honourable Julian Fantino, Minister of Veterans Affairs. He was joined by the French Republic representative, Mr. Denis Robin, Prefect of the Pas-de-Calais.

"During Veterans' Week, we pause to remember and honour our men and women who served bravely during times of war, military conflict and peace," said Minister Fantino. "Throughout our nation's history, Canadians have responded to the call to defend the values of peace and freedom around the world—often at a heavy price. It is our solemn duty to remember their noble sacrifices."

"Few places serve as a greater tribute to the sacrifices and service of Canadian men and women in uniform than does the Canadian National Vimy Memorial," said Ambassador Cannon. "As we stand on this sacred ground, we are reminded of our eternal gratitude toward the men and women of the Canadian military throughout our nation's eventful history."

Each year, Veterans Affairs Canada holds its annual Remembrance Day ceremony at the Canadian National Vimy Memorial on the Sunday preceding November 11.

This Veterans' Week, your challenge is to show you remember. Wearing a poppy, attending a local Remembrance Day ceremony and changing your Facebook profile picture to a poppy are all ways to remember and honour Veterans. Visit veterans.gc.ca to get interactive and share your thoughts or to find commemorative events in your community.

2013 is the Year of the Korean War Veteran—Canada proudly remembers the heroes of the Korean War and their brave fight to defend the Republic of Korea and uphold freedom, democracy and the rule of law.

SOURCE: Veterans Affairs Canada