Ministers Fantino and Nicholson Honour Veterans at Candlelight Tribute

OTTAWA, Nov. 5, 2013 /CNW/ - The Honourable Julian Fantino, Minister of Veterans Affairs, the Honourable Rob Nicholson, Minister of National Defence, and His Worship Jim Watson, Mayor of Ottawa, tonight joined more than 800 people at Centrepointe Theatre in Ottawa for a Candlelight Tribute in honour of Canada's Veterans.

"Veterans' Week is a time to acknowledge the courage and dedication of our men and women in uniform," said Minister Fantino. "I encourage all of you to reflect on how the actions of Canada's Veterans have helped people around the world, and to take a moment to thank them for all they have sacrificed."

"This is a special moment to join together for a solemn expression of our deepest gratitude," said Minister Nicholson. "Our freedom, safety, and opportunity—the shared values of this country—have been attained thanks to the dedication of our brave Veterans and those who continue to serve."

This marks the 14^th consecutive year that Veterans Affairs Canada has co-hosted the event with the City of Ottawa. The ceremony began in 1995 in the Netherlands, as a symbol of gratitude to those who liberated the country during the Second World War. It honours all those who have served and the memory of those who have died serving Canada.

As part of the City's annual street-naming initiative, Mayor Watson announced that a local street will be named after Major (Ret'd) W. Barry Helman, a Veteran of the Korean War and an active member of the Canadian Association of Veterans in United Nations Peacekeeping.

"Major Helman's service to his country and to his community exemplifies the dedication and commitment of our men and women in uniform," said Mayor Watson. "We are proud to honour Major Helman and all of Canada's Veterans."

This Veterans' Week, your challenge is to show you remember. Wearing a poppy, attending a local Remembrance Day ceremony and changing your Facebook profile picture to a poppy are all ways to remember and honour Veterans. Visit veterans.gc.ca to get interactive and share your thoughts or to find commemorative events in your community.

For more information about commemorative events in your area, visit veterans.gc.ca/iremember.

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.

SOURCE: Veterans Affairs Canada