Government of Canada Delegation to Mark 70th Anniversary of the Dieppe Raid in France

OTTAWA, Aug. 16, 2012 /CNW/ - The Honourable Steven Blaney, Minister of Veterans Affairs, will lead an official delegation to mark the 70^th anniversary of the Dieppe Raid. The delegation will be in France from August 17 to 21.

"We are returning to the beaches of France where, 70 years ago, one of the most somber days of the Second World War played out," said Minister Blaney. "The Dieppe Raid was difficult and costly, but the courage of the Canadians was beyond doubt. I am honoured to be travelling to France in the company of Second World War Veterans, to recognize the sacrifices and achievements of all Canadians who have left a lasting legacy of peace."

The delegation travelling overseas includes Canadian Veterans who participated in the Dieppe Raid and their caregivers; Guy Parent, Veterans Ombudsman; and representatives from the Department of National Defence and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. His Excellency, the Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor General and Commander-in-Chief of Canada, is also travelling to France to participate in the commemorative ceremonies.

While in France, the delegation will visit various commemorative sites and participate in wreath laying ceremonies, including the Government of Canada signature event at the Canada Memorial Square on August 19^th, and a visit to Merritt Bridge, named for a Canadian Victoria Cross recipient. The delegation will also attend the world premiere of Dieppe Uncovered, a documentary that reveals new historical information about the Dieppe Raid.

"The important lessons learned from the Dieppe Raid contributed to the later successes of Canadian and Allied troops during the War," said Minister Blaney. "We now know that, had the raid succeeded, it could have changed the course of the war. Most importantly, we now know with confidence that the sacrifices of Canada's Veterans were not in vain."

Commemorative ceremonies marking the 70^th anniversary of the Dieppe Raid will also be held in communities across Canada, including a wreath laying at the National War Memorial in Ottawa.

For more information on the Dieppe Raid, visit veterans.gc.ca. Share your thoughts on the 70^th anniversary at facebook.com/CanadaRemembers.

SOURCE: Veterans Affairs Canada