OTTAWA – “Canada’s mission in Afghanistan has ended, but Canada’s duty to remember and honour those who served has only just begun. Through these commemorations, Canadians will have an ongoing opportunity to reflect with pride and compassion on the efforts and sacrifices that were made by so many,” stated Veterans Affairs Minister Julian Fantino.
The Minister has announced that a permanent national memorial to Canada’s mission in Afghanistan will be constructed in the nation’s capital. The memorial, to be unveiled in 2017, will specifically recognize and honour the hard work, courage and personal sacrifices made by Canadians while in service to their country during the Afghanistan conflict between 2001 and 2014.
Minister Fantino also announced that the National War Memorial, which is the central place of remembrance for those who have served, will be inscribed with the dates of Canada’s mission in Afghanistan (2001–2014) and that a ceremony to unveil the inscription will be held later in 2014.
In addition, Minister Fantino announced that La Promenade Building, on Sparks Street in Ottawa, will be renamed The Valour Building in honour of the bravery displayed by Canada’s best in Afghanistan.
In Ottawa today, on the grounds of Parliament Hill a ceremony will be held.
