Veterans Remembrance Tributes take place in Hamilton
HAMILTON, ON, Nov. 13, 2016 /CNW/ - On behalf of the Honourable Kent Hehr, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence, Karen McCrimmon, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence, joined members of the Canadian Football League (CFL), Veterans, and thousands of football fans in the Veterans Remembrance Tribute today at the Grey Cup Western Division semi-final playoff game in Hamilton.
Held each year on the second Sunday in November, these annual ceremonies kick off the Canadian Football League semi-finals. They are the product of a partnership between the league and Veterans Affairs Canada, which began in 2008. Parliamentary Secretary Karen McCrimmon participated in the official coin toss at the pre-game show.
Quotes
"Throughout Canada's military history, there has been a long-standing relationship between sports and military service. The partnership that has developed over the years between the Canadian Football League and Veterans Affairs Canada is a tribute to that deep sport and military connection. This special tribute event is an excellent opportunity to honour Canada's men and women in uniform, past and present on a national stage to raise awareness to the generations to come about the importance of remembrance."
Karen McCrimmon, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence
"Honouring our past and looking to our future is central to the Canadian Football League – and nowhere is that more important than when paying tribute to the brave Canadians who have defended our freedoms. The CFL is proud to be a part of this very special event that brings us together to honour that bravery and sacrifice."
Jeffrey L. Orridge, Commissioner, Canadian Football League
Quick Facts
- Organized by the Canadian Football League, in partnership with Veterans Affairs Canada, the semi-final games featured a pre-game ceremony, known as the Veterans Remembrance Tribute, as well as the placement of special commemorative visuals around the football field and on each player's helmet.
- Since Confederation, more than 2.3 million Canadians have served in Canada's armed forces to defend freedom and democracy—with more than 118,000 having given their lives.
- There are countless ways to express your gratitude and appreciation for Canada's war dead, Veterans and Canadian Armed Forces personnel. Find out how you can remember them at veterans.gc.ca/rememberthem
- The annual tribute also includes the presentation of the Jake Gaudaur Veterans Award at the CFL Players Awards on November 24, 2016 in Toronto, Ontario.
Associated Links
SOURCE Veterans Affairs Canada
Media Relations, Veterans Affairs Canada, 613-992-7468, [email protected]; Sarah McMaster, Press Secretary, Office of the Minister of Veterans Affairs, 613-996-4649
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