Statement - Minister Fantino Marks 72nd Anniversary of Dieppe Raid

OTTAWA, Aug. 18, 2014 /CNW/ - The Honourable Julian Fantino, Minister of Veterans Affairs, today issued the following statement to mark the 72^nd anniversary of the Dieppe Raid:

"The battle that our brave Canadian soldiers undertook in Dieppe, France, on August 19, 1942, stands as one of the most devastating and bloody chapters in our nation's military history.

"The cost to human life was staggering, as 916 brave Canadians made the ultimate sacrifice. More than 1,940 were taken as prisoners, facing harsh treatment in German camps for the remainder of the war. In total, more than 3,350 Canadians were killed, wounded or captured that day.

"While Canadians paid a steep price at Dieppe, the hard lessons learned help to set the stage for the victory to come. I encourage Canadians to remember and honour those who served during the Dieppe Raid, and to reflect on the extreme bravery of those who were lost. Their selfless contribution to our freedom will never be forgotten."

For more information on the Dieppe Raid or for a list of commemorative events taking place in your community, visit veterans.gc.ca.

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