Minister Blaney Pays Tribute to Canadian Peacekeepers

OTTAWA, Aug. 9, 2012 /CNW/ - The Honourable Steven Blaney, Minister of Veterans Affairs, issued the following statement on the occasion of National Peacekeepers' Day.

"Today we pay tribute to the men and women who, through their service and dedication, have contributed to peace around the world. We can be proud of the role they play as Canadian peacekeepers. They provide humanitarian assistance and maintain security in troubled areas while risking their lives in order to ensure security in the world.

National Peacekeepers' Day is about recognition and commemoration: of peacekeepers past, present and yet to come and their families; recognition and thanks to those who help make the peacekeeping duty less arduous; and remembering those who have died in the service of peace.

Canadian peacekeepers play an essential role in promoting peace in the world and it is our duty to recognize the importance of their contributions. By marking this special day, we can celebrate and express our pride in and our gratitude to these men and women."

Since its official establishment in Canada in 2008, National Peacekeepers' Day is an opportunity for Canadians to express the pride and respect they have towards Canada's Armed Forces, Canadian diplomats, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, provincial and municipal police forces, as well as civilians working in support of international peace and security operations at home and abroad.

Veterans and Canadian Forces members who have served abroad in various peacekeeping missions will gather at cenotaphs across the country to honour their comrades.

To learn more about Veterans Affairs Canada's programs and services, visit veterans.gc.ca.

SOURCE: Veterans Affairs Canada