Statement - Veterans Affairs Canada Marks Black History Month

OTTAWA, Feb. 1, 2013 /CNW/ - The Honourable Steven Blaney, Minister of Veterans Affairs, today issued the following statement to recognize Black History Month:

"As February marks Black History Month, Canadians are invited to take part in activities that commemorate the legacy of black Canadians, past and present.

"Black Canadians have a long history of service in our Armed Forces. Their contributions run the gamut from the War of 1812 and even earlier, to serving in the trenches or with the No. 2 Construction 'Black' Battalion during the First World War, to fighting far from home during the Second World War and in Korea, to peacekeeping operations and our efforts in Afghanistan in more recent years.

"The black community in Canada is an important part of our country's history. The Government of Canada recognizes the tremendous contributions of those brave men and women in uniform who fought to defend our freedom and peace. These Canadians deserve our admiration and gratitude for the role they played in helping to shape the mosaic of Canada and its values.

"This month, we think about the generations of black Canadians who have bravely served this country and those who wear the Canadian Armed Forces uniform with pride today. We remember those who served and the sacrifices made in helping to make our country what it is today."

More information on the military contributions of black Canadians can be found at veterans.gc.ca.

SOURCE: Veterans Affairs Canada