Minister Blaney Marks National Aboriginal Day

OTTAWA, June 21, 2013 /CNW/ - The Honourable Steven Blaney, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Minister for La Francophonie, issued the following statement today regarding National Aboriginal Day.

"Aboriginal involvement in the First and Second World Wars, the Korean War and as members of the Canadian Armed Forces during peacetime is a proud part of our Canadian heritage. It is our duty to remember the service and sacrifices of our Aboriginal Veterans.

"It is estimated that more than 7,000 Aboriginal men and women served in the great conflicts of the 20^th century, with at least 500 giving their lives. Aboriginal communities also made substantial financial donations, as well as contributing clothing, food and land to the Canadian war effort.

"The names of several of our warships, like the HMCS Iroquois, HMCS Cayuga and HMCS Huron (all of which participated in the Korean War) are an indication of our country's esteem for the proud heritage of Aboriginal Canadians.

"Today, we honour those Aboriginals who served and those who continue to serve. We remember, with endless gratitude, those who made the ultimate sacrifice so that all Canadians might know peace and inherit freedom."

For more information on the role of Aboriginal Veterans in Canada's military history, 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 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