Harper Government Demonstrates Commitment to Remembrance by Supporting Reconstruction of Rockwood Cenotaph

ROCKWOOD, ON, Aug. 29, 2012 /CNW/ - On behalf of the Honourable Steven Blaney, Minister of Veterans Affairs, the Honourable Michael Chong, Member of Parliament for Wellington-Halton Hills, today attended the Rockwood Cenotaph rededication ceremony in Rockwood, Ontario.

"Cenotaphs and monuments across our country are solemn but powerful reminders of the sacrifices made by our nation's truest heroes," said Minister Blaney. "Our Government is committed to honouring Canada's Veterans and the brave service men and women who continue to serve today."

"This special monument honours the service and sacrifices of the local men and women who served in the First and Second World Wars and the Korean War," said MP Chong. "I am very proud to be here today to rededicate this newly reconstructed cenotaph. We must preserve the legacy of our Veterans and ensure that younger generations are aware of the important contribution of Canadian Veterans to our military history."

The Township of Guelph/Eramosa has received Government of Canada funding of up to $33,060 through Veterans Affairs Canada's Community War Memorial Program, to assist with a major addition and reconstruction of the Rockwood Cenotaph in the community of Rockwood, Ontario. The project included the demolition and replacement of the stairs and the addition of fencing, retaining walls, a concrete platform around the cenotaph, and wheelchair ramps.

Applications to the Community War Memorial Program can be submitted at any time during the year and are reviewed on a quarterly basis. Interested non-profit groups and other organizations may be eligible for funding to build new memorials or to make major additions to existing ones. For more information, please visit veterans.gc.ca.

SOURCE: Veterans Affairs Canada

For further information:

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

Jean-Christophe de le Rue
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Veterans Affairs
613-996-4649

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