Member of Parliament Lawrence Toet Participates in Memorial Service to Honour Hong Kong Veterans

WINNIPEG, Aug. 17, 2013 /CNW/ - On behalf of the Honourable Julian Fantino, Minister of Veterans Affairs, Lawrence Toet, Member of Parliament for Elmwood-Transcona, attended a memorial service at the Neil Bardal Funeral Centre during the Hong Kong Veterans Commemorative Association Convention.

"It is our duty to remember and honour our Veterans, the brave men and women in uniform who have served Canada so selflessly," said Minister Fantino. "Those Canadians who fought in the defence of Hong Kong sacrificed much in their efforts to help bring peace and freedom to the people of Asia and the Pacific."

The Canadians at Hong Kong fought against overwhelming odds and displayed the courage of seasoned Veterans, though most had limited military training. Those who survived the battle became prisoners of war (POWs) and many endured torture and starvation by their captors. Of the almost 2,000 Canadians who went to Hong Kong, more than 1,050 were either killed or wounded.

"Canada has a proud tradition of military service and we must continue to recognize the courageous actions of Veterans like those who fought in the Battle of Hong Kong," said MP Toet. "We will always remember the sacrifices made by the Canadian troops of 'C' Force in defending Hong Kong."

Through the Community Engagement Partnership Fund, Veterans Affairs Canada will provide financial support of up to $3,450 to the Hong Kong Veterans Commemorative Association in support of this event.

The Community Engagement Partnership Fund provides funding for non-profit organizations, educational institutions and other groups interested in planning remembrance initiatives. Funding applications are accepted throughout the year. For more information, please 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 defend the Republic of Korea and 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