Canadians and South Koreans unite at the annual "Turn to Busan" ceremony to pay tribute to the fallen
OTTAWA, Nov. 10, 2016 /CNW/ - The Honourable Kent Hehr, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence, joined Park In Kyu, Minister and Deputy Head of Mission, Embassy of the Republic of Korea, and His Worship Jim Watson, Mayor of the City of Ottawa, at the annual "Turn to Busan" wreath-laying ceremony to honour and pay respect to those that served and died in the Korean War.
The annual commemorative ceremony, which mirrors the international tribute held at the United Nations Memorial Cemetery in the Republic of Korea, unites Canadians and South Koreans in remembrance. This year, the Canadian ceremony celebrates its ninth anniversary.
Quotes
"It is truly an honour to be here today to remember those who fought and fell during the Korean War. The courage and sacrifice demonstrated by Canadians and South Koreans during the war continues to be an inspiration to our two countries today and exemplifies what it means to stand strong in the face of difficult challenges. I hope that Canadians take the time during Veterans' Week to remember the brave men and women in uniform who fought for our peace and freedom."
The Honourable Kent Hehr, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence
Quick Facts
- Busan is the location of the world's only United Nations Cemetery.
- Turning toward Busan on the eve of November 11 is a way of showing respect for all Canadians and other service members from United Nations countries who lost their lives during the Korean War.
- More than 26,000 Canadians served in the Korean War, and 516 made the ultimate sacrifice.
- Veterans' Week is a time when all Canadians come together to honour those who have sacrificed and those who continue to serve today to make our world a safer place. This Veterans' Week, Remember Them. Learn more at canada.ca/rememberthem.
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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