Canada Marks 70th Anniversary of Allied Landings in Provence, France

The Honourable Christian Paradis represents Canada at international ceremony

TOULON, France, Aug. 15, 2014 /CNW/ - On behalf of the Government of Canada, the Honourable Christian Paradis, Minister of International Development and Minister for La Francophonie, marked the 70^th anniversary of the Allied Landings in Provence, France, known as Operation Dragoon. Canada was one of 28 nations invited by the Government of France to the ceremony which was held in Toulon, onboard the Charles De Gaulle aircraft carrier.

Operation Dragoon, on August 15, 1944, was a large and complex military operation which was initiated with a parachute drop by the 1^st Airborne Task Force. It was followed with a well executed amphibious and airborne component. Operation Dragoon was a significant combat operation of the Second World War.

Quick Facts

• More than one million Canadians and Newfoundlanders served in the Second World War. Of these more than 45,000 gave their lives, and another 55,000 were wounded.
• During the World Wars Commemoration period (2014-2020) which was recently launched by the Government of Canada, many events across the country will honour the Canadian men and women who bravely served our country during the First and Second World Wars.

Quotes

"International events like this one provide us with the extraordinary opportunity to honour our military and recognize Canada's role in the Second World War. It is important that we, as a nation, remember those who have served and continue to serve our country, to uphold the values of peace, freedom, democracy and the rule of law."
The Honourable Julian Fantino, Minister of Veterans Affairs

"I am proud to represent Canada and stand beside other nations as we honour the service and sacrifices of those who served during the Second World War. Canadian soldiers played a key role in liberating France. As demonstrated by the activities organized today, their sacrifices will not be forgotten by Canada or the world."
The Honourable Christian Paradis, Minister of International Development and Minister for La Francophonie

Associated Links

• Canada Remembers Second World War feature
• Canada Remembers Facebook page

SOURCE: Veterans Affairs Canada

For further information:

Ashlee Smith
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Veterans Affairs
613-996-4649

Media Relations
Veterans Affairs Canada
613-992-7468