Government of Canada marks 70th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day

Paying tribute to Canadian and Newfoundland Second World War Veterans

OTTAWA, May 8, 2015 /CNW/ - The Honourable Erin O'Toole, Minister of Veterans Affairs, today honoured the Canadians and Newfoundlanders who took part in the Second World War at a ceremony commemorating the 70^th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day. 

Veterans, dignitaries, members of the Canadian Armed Forces and young people gathered at the National War Memorial in Ottawa to mark this solemn moment. The Youth Orchestra of the Netherlands played at the ceremony to commemorate the anniversary and to honour Canada's contribution to liberating the Netherlands.

Quick Facts

• May 8, 1945, marked the victory of the Allied forces over Germany and the end of the Second World War in Europe.
• From 1939 to 1945, more than a million Canadians and Newfoundlanders served in the military; of that number, more than 45,000 perished and some 55,000 were wounded.
• It is estimated that there are about 80,000 surviving Canadian Veterans of the Second World War.
• The Youth Orchestra of the Netherlands consists of 80 talented young musicians, ranging in age from 14 to 20 years.

Quote

"The Second World War is a pivotal moment in Canadian history. The Canadians and Newfoundlanders who served in uniform, who stormed the beaches of Normandy, who liberated Europe from the horrendous tyranny of Nazi Germany are true heroes. Their bravery and their determination to bring freedom back to Europe will always be remembered. Lest we forget."
The Honourable Erin O'Toole, Minister of Veterans Affairs

Related Links

• V-E Day video
• Canadian War Museum V-E Day feature

SOURCE Veterans Affairs Canada

For further information: Martin Magnan, Press Secretary, Office of the Minister of Veterans Affairs, 613-996-4649; Media Relations, Veterans Affairs Canada, 613-992-7468