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November 8, 2005
Remembrance Day is marked in many different ways. Children will pack auditoriums for presentations, music and speeches; some will prefer to recall the bravery of our veterans in silence; and others will come together with their fellow Canadians at Remembrance Day ceremonies across the country to honour our brave men and women who have given everything they had in defence of their country and to fight tyranny around the world.
We recall today that the 11th hour of the 11th day, of the 11th month in 1918 marked the end of fighting in the First World War. That day was surely one of celebration and triumph, but must have also been bitter-sweet as millions of the world’s citizens, weary from years of loss and destruction, could dare, finally, to allow themselves to contemplate the rebuilding of cities, countries and families. Today, November 11th is a day to remember and reflect on the mighty cost our country, and especially our veterans, have paid in defence of freedom.
Throughout the year, Canada has been celebrating the Year of the Veteran. Pilgrimages to Normandy, Italy and the Netherlands, as well as commemorative events held in Canada, to mark the 60th anniversary of the end of the Second World War have shown us that our Canadian Forces have not been forgotten and will never fade from the memories of those whose lives they helped to liberate. Just last month, I was privileged to join a delegation of Aboriginal veterans on a spiritual journey to Beny-sur-Mer and Juno Beach in Normandy. I valued, more than you can imagine, the opportunity to join with them and share in this incredible journey. Their experiences during the war have given me a greater understanding of what our veterans mean to this country and what their experiences mean to them. And while we reflect on the past, let us also remember those who proudly wear the Canadian insignia every day to bring peace and security around the world.
It is my hope that all Canadians will come together to reflect and to remember those who have made it possible to live in a land full of tolerance, hope and freedom.
Michaëlle Jean
November 2005
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