Harper Government Honours Veterans at 2013 Memorial Cup Tournament

SASKATOON, May 18, 2013 /CNW/ - On behalf of the Honourable Steven Blaney, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Minister for La Francophonie, the Honourable Lynne Yelich, Minister of State (Western Economic Diversification) and Member of Parliament for Blackstrap, paid tribute today to Canada's Veterans by participating in a ceremonial puck drop at the Memorial Cup tournament in Saskatoon.

"It is important for Canadians to understand how our military history is intertwined with all aspects of Canadian life. We only need to look back to the famous games played on the frozen  Imjin River by Canadian soldiers stationed in Korea during the Korean War to understand this connection." said Minister Blaney. "I commend the Canadian Hockey League for continuing to keep alive the memory of those who sacrificed for our country and for encouraging Canadians to learn more about Canada's military history."

"The Memorial Cup was originally conceived to remember players who died during the First World War and was rededicated in 2010 to honour all Canadian Armed Forces personnel who died fighting for Canada," said Minister Yelich. "By taking part in this year's Memorial Cup ceremony, our Government is proud to pay tribute to Canada's Veterans and those who served their country."

Our Government encourages all Canadians to take part in the various activities held across Canada to commemorate important events related to our military history. For more information on these activities and our funding programs, visit veterans.gc.ca.

2013 is the Year of the Korean War Veteran—Canada proudly remembers the heroes of the Korean War and their brave fight to uphold freedom, democracy and the rule of law. For more information on Canada's role in the Korean War, visit veterans.gc.ca.

SOURCE: Veterans Affairs Canada