Veterans Remembrance Tributes take place in Vancouver
VANCOUVER, Nov. 13, 2016 /CNW/ - The Honourable Kent Hehr, 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 Vancouver.
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. Minister Kent Hehr participated in the official coin toss at the pre-game show.
Quotes
"I am deeply honoured to return to the field for another Veterans Remembrance Tribute with the Canadian Football League. What a truly fantastic event this is – honouring our men and women in uniform, past and present, while enjoying CFL playoff football. We are thankful for the CFL's continued support and dedication to remembering Canada's Veterans.
The Honourable Kent Hehr, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence
"The Veterans Remembrance Tribute is a special event for me – coming together with our fans and players to pay tribute to those in uniform who have fought for our freedom is a truly inspiring experience. The CFL is honoured to have Minister Hehr with us today to recognize this important tribute."
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
For further information: 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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