CALGARY, Nov. 11, 2012 /CNW/ - The Canadian Football League and football fans across the country paid tribute to Canada's Veterans during the two Grey Cup semi-final playoff games in Toronto and Calgary today. On behalf of the Honourable Steven Blaney, Minister of Veterans Affairs, Michelle Rempel, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of the Environment and Member of Parliament for Calgary Centre-North, participated in the coin toss at the Western semi-final game in Calgary.
"The Veterans' Tributes is a joint initiative between Veterans Affairs Canada and the Canadian Football League to recognize the sacrifices and achievements of Canada's Veterans," said Minister Blaney. "For those at home and in the stands watching, this is a great opportunity to take time to remember the men and women in uniform who have served our nation with great distinction."
"Tributes and remembrance events that honour our Veterans are so important," said PS Rempel. "This joint initiative with Veterans Affairs and the CFL provides a unique opportunity for Canadians to hounor those who served our country with pride. We must remember their heroic selfless acts and important contributions."
"In the year of the 100th Grey Cup, when we are celebrating something so proudly Canadian, we are especially proud to pay tribute to our Veterans on this special day," said Michael Copeland, Canadian Football League Chief Operating Officer. "On behalf of our entire league, I thank the men and women who served our country and made the ultimate sacrifice."
Through the Community Engagement Partnership Fund, Veterans Affairs Canada will provide funding to the Canadian Football League 2012 Veterans' Tribute. The Tribute includes the Jake Gaudaur Veterans Award, national broadcasts of Veterans' Tribute videos during the semi-final games and in-stadium activities commemorating the achievements and sacrifices of Canadian Veterans during times of war, military conflict and peace.
The semi-final games featured pre-game tributes and the placement of special commemorative markings on both football fields as well as on the helmet of each player. The audience participated in a short ceremony that included a moment of silence in respect for Veterans and those still serving.
To learn more about the services and benefits available to Veterans, visit veterans.gc.ca. To learn more about the Canadian Football League and its acknowledgement of the contribution of Canada's Veterans, visit CFL.ca.
SOURCE: Veterans Affairs Canada
For further information:
Media inquiries:
Janice Summerby
Media Relations Advisor
Veterans Affairs Canada
613-992-7468
Jamie Dykstra
Director, Communications & Broadcast
Canadian Football League
416-865-2664
Jean-Christophe de le Rue
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Veterans Affairs
613-996-4649
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