Minister Blaney and the Lévis Commandeurs Celebrate Canada's Veterans

LÉVIS, QC, Nov. 2, 2012 /CNW/ - The Honourable Steven Blaney, Minister of Veterans Affairs, joined the Lévis Commandeurs and their fans to pay tribute to Canada's Veterans at a pre-game ceremonial puck drop. With Veterans' Week (November 5-11) just around the corner, the Commandeurs joined Canadians from coast-to-coast-to-coast in taking time to remember.

"Our Veterans and those who continue to serve today have earned the gratitude of all Canadians," said Minister Blaney. "This time of year provides us with a unique opportunity to honour those who have sacrificed to defend Canada's values of freedom and democracy," For a number of years, the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League (QMJHL), Midget AAA League and North American Hockey League (NAHL) have highlighted the contributions of Canadian Veterans and men and women in uniform through ceremonial puck drops.

"Veterans Affairs Canada and sports leagues share a common commitment: to express our respect and appreciation for Canadian Veterans of yesterday and today," added Minister Blaney.

This year, 34 ceremonial puck drops will be held across Quebec during Veterans' Week. For more information, consult the "Calendar of Events" on Veterans Affairs Canada's Web site.

This Veterans' Week, take time to remember by attending a Remembrance Day ceremony, visiting a local cenotaph or monument, sharing your thoughts of remembrance online, or wearing a poppy with pride. Learn more at veterans.gc.ca.

Image with caption: "Minister Steven Blaney recently took part in a ceremonial puck drop during a local game of the Commandeurs de Lévis. The puck drop was organized to highlight Veterans' Week which runs from November 5th to the 11th (CNW Group/Veterans Affairs Canada)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20121102_C4748_PHOTO_EN_20148.jpg

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