Today is an opportunity for all of us to recognize and honour the past and present sacrifices of the men and women in the Canadian Armed Forces. We say ‘thank you’ for all they have given and will continue to give up to fight for our country.
November 11, 2010 marks 92 years since the end of the First World War. 92 years since more than 66,000 brave Canadian soldiers made the ultimate sacrifice in defence of our country. 92 years since the signing of the Armistice treaty between Germany and Allies. And 92 years since silence descended on the battlefields of the First World War.
Through the First and Second World Wars, the Korean War, the mission in Afghanistan and countless peacekeeping assignments, Canadian troops have always stepped up to the task with courage, dedication and the determination to stand up for what’s right.
As Canadians, it is our duty to remember. We owe our freedom to the past and present sacrifices of our soldiers, sailors, airmen and airwomen. That’s why in communities, at schools, and at memorial sites across Canada, we stand and remember the great sacrifices made by our brave soldiers who left the safety of their homes and comfort of their families to defend Canadian values.
While the battles fought today look much different from the ones fought by our grandparents and great-grandparents, one factor remains the same: Canada’s soldiers are ready and willing to face danger on our behalf.
But the men and women in uniform aren’t the only ones who make sacrifices. While our brave soldiers cross oceans to fight for a better and safer world, mothers, fathers, husbands, wives and children are left to make their own sacrifices as they support one another on the home front.
On this year’s Remembrance Day, Canadians will also honour an important historical milestone. On February 18, 2010, John “Jack” Babcock passed away. Mr. Babcock was Canada’s last known Veteran of the First World War, and his passing marks the end of an era in Canada’s military history.
We remember and honour all members of our military who have made sacrifices, both past and present, to preserve Canadian values and help create a better and safer world for Canadians and people across the globe.
I will be spending my Remembrance Day in Cranbrook. I encourage everyone to take the time to remember those who have fallen in the service of our Country. And on behalf of Prime Minister Stephen Harper and our Conservative Government, I want to say “thank you” to all those who have served, and continue to serve our great country.
Lest we forget.
Jim Abbott is the Conservative Party MP for Kootenay-Columbia. You can reach his office in Cranbrook by calling 1-800-668-5522. His website is at www.jimabbottmp.com.
