Remembrance Day 2017

This Remembrance Day, as we commemorate 150 years since confederation, we pay special attention to our men and women in uniform whose service to their country has helped lead us to where we are today. 

Canadian soldiers, aircrew and sailors have fought valiantly to uphold our freedoms in two world wars and countless battles and peacekeeping efforts spanning over 15 decades.

This year marks the 100th Anniversary of the Battle of Passchendaele.  A battle that saw over 4,000 Canadian lives lost and almost 12,000 more wounded. In the fall of 1917, Canadian soldiers fought to victory in what has been described as unimaginable hardships, on a battlefield of thick mud in northwest Belgium.

We acknowledge this day with the understanding that our remembrance does not take away the struggles or the pain of loss, but gives honour and reverence.

And with that honour and reverence, we salute you who gave, and who give, so selflessly of yourselves so we may enjoy freedom. We remember the sacrifices of your friends, families and colleagues who, although not in uniform, served and serve alongside you.

We remember and we thank you.

Gary Walbourne
Ombudsman