Passing the torch of remembrance to Canada's youth
OTTAWA, Nov. 6, 2017 /CNW/ - Engaging Canadian youth in the act of remembrance is fundamental to ensuring that the legacy of our service members who have selflessly fought to defend peace and democracy around the world lives on for generations to come.
Sherry Romanado, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence, joined His Worship Jim Watson, Mayor of Ottawa, and Mr. Mark O'Neill, President and CEO of the Canadian Museum of History and Canadian War Museum, this evening at the Canadian War Museum for the 18th annual Candlelight Tribute to honour Canada's fallen heroes and Veterans.
This is a signature Veterans' Week commemorative event that brings together people of all ages, including Veterans, youth, Canadian Armed Forces members and dignitaries. The passing of candles from Veterans to youth during the ceremony represents the "passing of the torch of remembrance" from one generation to the next. This heartfelt tradition pays tribute to the many brave Canadians in uniform—past and present—who have sacrificed to serve their country and defend our country's values.
This Veterans' Week, express your gratitude and appreciation for Canadian Armed Forces members, Veterans, Royal Canadian Mounted Police members and those who have given their lives in service, who come from diverse ethnic, linguistic, cultural and regional backgrounds. Join the conversation on social media by using the hashtags #CanadaRemembers and #Passchendaele100 or visit canada.ca/canada-remembers.
Quotes
"This ceremony is such a heartfelt tribute to Canada's fallen service members and Veterans. It is inspiring to have young Canadians take such an interest in Canada's military heritage and accept the passing of the torch of remembrance. Their promise ensures the legacy of our fallen heroes lives on and provides a solid foundation for remembrance for years to come."
The Honourable Seamus O'Regan, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence
"It is truly moving to witness the connection between our Veterans and our youth during this solemn event and is reassuring that the legacy of our Veterans lives on. As the torch of remembrance burns brightly through the candles this evening, we remember the many sacrifices that have been made by our men and women in uniform—and their families—over the years for the freedom we enjoy today."
Sherry Romanado, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence
"As we mark Canada's sesquicentennial, it is important to also remember the men and women who have dedicated their lives to keeping our country safe. This ceremony offers us an opportunity to reflect upon, recognize and thank the military troops who have represented Canada proudly and bravely over the past 150 years. We are grateful for the freedoms and service they have provided to all Canadians."
His Worship Jim Watson, Mayor of Ottawa
"The Canadian War Museum is delighted to partner with The City of Ottawa and Veterans Affairs Canada for this moving event. Through the youth present at the event, the service and sacrifice of our veterans will be remembered and the torch will be passed for generations to come. The Museum is proud to take part in honouring the memory of the late Stuart Kettles - and of all those who have served this country in times of war and peace."
Mark O'Neill, President and CEO, Canadian Museum of History and Canadian War Museum
Quick Facts
- During the ceremony, the recipient of this year's Ottawa street-naming initiative—the late Stuart Kettles, a local Veteran—was announced, and his family was presented with a street sign bearing his name and a poppy. Kettles had enlisted in the Royal Canadian Naval Volunteer Reserve in 1941 and had received several awards for his dedication and service.
- 2017 is a special year of commemoration for Canada, including Canada 150, the 100th anniversaries of the Battle of Vimy Ridge and the Battle of Passchendaele, and the 75th anniversary of the Dieppe Raid.
- Since Confederation, more than 2.3 million Canadians have served in uniform to defend freedom and democracy—with more than 118,000 giving their lives.
- The Government of Canada has improved the services and benefits offered to Veterans and their caregivers and families. To all Veterans, members of the Canadian Armed Forces and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, and their families—Veterans Affairs Canada is here for you. Learn how we can help at veterans.gc.ca/services.
Related Links
- Canada Remembers – Official Veterans' Week webpage
- City of Ottawa
- Canadian War Museum
SOURCE Veterans Affairs Canada
For further information: Media Relations, Veterans Affairs Canada, 613-992-7468, vac.media-medias.acc@vac-acc.gc.ca; Alex Wellstead, Press Secretary, Office of the Minister of Veterans Affairs, 613-996-4649; City of Ottawa, Media contact, 613-580-2450; Avra Gibbs Lamey, Senior Communications and Media Relations Officer, Canadian War Museum, T 819-776-8607, Avra.Gibbs-Lamey@warmuseum.ca
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