OTTAWA, ON – Politics Monday, September 15, 2014 – Following approval during a special session of our country’s Parliament, September 10, 1939 marked the first time Canada declared war of its own accord. From 1939 to 1945, more than one million Canadians and Newfoundlanders served, with more than 55,000 wounded and over 45,000 giving their lives.
On September 10, 2014, the Hon. Julian Fantino, Minister of Veterans Affairs, announced a new national tribute to mark the 75th anniversary of Canada’s engagement in the Second World War and the extraordinary role Canadians played in the Allied victory. All living Canadian Veterans of the Second World War are eligible to receive a limited edition commemorative lapel pin and a personalized certificate of recognition.
The design of the commemorative pin and the illustration on the certificate are based on the original “Victory Nickel”, which features a flaming torch and a large “V” standing both for victory and the coin’s denomination. The coin was originally in circulation from 1943 to 1945 and was reissued in 2005 to commemorate the 60th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day.
Canadians who served at least one day with the Canadian forces or with any other Allied force, including the Canadian or British Merchant Navy, either home or abroad, during the Second World War and were living on September 10, 2014, are eligible to apply for the commemorative lapel pin and certificate.
The Government of Canada is committed to recognizing and commemorating important anniversaries in our military history and honouring the service and sacrifices of those who served. Between now and 2020, the Government of Canada will organize and support events and initiatives that pay homage to the many Canadians and Newfoundlanders who served during the World Wars and will recognize the enduring legacy of these historical events on the Canada we enjoy today.
Applicants and/or their families may visit my Dryden Constituency Office at 81 Duke Street or my Kenora Constituency Office at 25B Main St. South or call 1-866-710-0008.
Request forms can also be found online at www.gregrickford.ca.
Minister Greg Rickford MP
Kenora
