Government of Canada Marks Korean War Veterans Day in Woodstock

WOODSTOCK, N.B., July 27, 2013 /CNW/ - On behalf of the Honourable Julian Fantino, Minister of Veterans Affairs, Mike Allen, Member of Parliament for Tobique-Mactaquac, today joined with family members of fallen Canadian personnel and community members at a wreath-laying ceremony to mark the 60^th anniversary of the Korean War Armistice and the Year of the Korean War Veteran.

"Our Government is pleased to mark July 27 as Korean War Veterans Day," said Minister Fantino. "This national day of remembrance and recognition is one of many ways that Canadians can demonstrate their deep appreciation to our Veterans of the Korean War for the service and sacrifices they made six decades ago."

Last month, Bill S-213: An Act Respecting a National Day of Remembrance to Honour Canadian Veterans of the Korean War was granted Royal Assent. Under the Act, Korean War Veterans Day was established and will be held each year on July 27.

From 1950 to 1953, more than 26,000 Canadians served in Korea—working to restore peace and stability to the area. On July 27, 1953, the Korean War Armistice was signed, ending three years of fighting. Some 7,000 Canadians continued to serve between the signing of the Armistice and the end of 1955, with some Canadian troops remaining until 1957. In total, 516 brave young Canadians made the ultimate sacrifice during the Korean War.

"Today, we remember the contributions and achievements made by Canadians in Korea, for the sake of peace and freedom," said MP Allen. "We also remember with heavy hearts the fallen Canadians—those who served and paid the ultimate price with their lives, including three fallen servicemen from right here in Woodstock. We must never forget them."

2013 is the Year of the Korean War Veteran - Canada proudly remembers the heroes of the Korean War and their brave fight to uphold freedom, democracy and the rule of law. For more information on Canada's role in the Korean War, visit veterans.gc.ca.

SOURCE: Veterans Affairs Canada

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Media inquiries:

Janice Summerby
Media Relations Advisor
Veterans Affairs Canada
613-992-7468

Joshua Zanin
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Veterans Affairs
613-996-4649