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Rideau Hall, Thursday, May 31, 2007
This year we Canadians have a number of important anniversaries to celebrate.
There is, of course, the most important one: the 140th anniversary of Confederation, Canada’s 140th birthday.
At the same time, 2007 is also the 25th anniversary of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms, and the 40th anniversary of both the Order of Canada and Canada’s Honours System.
This year is also the 35th anniversary of the Order of Military Merit, as well as the 90th anniversary of the Battle of Vimy Ridge.
It is often said that Vimy was a defining moment for our young nation. And that is certainly true, on a number of levels.
First, to succeed where others had failed, as our soldiers did, is certainly a great tribute to Canada’s forces.
As well, there is the fact that Canadians from coast to coast to coast were represented in that battle. They fought side by side, many died together, and ultimately they triumphed together.
Our country benefited from brave servicemen whose personal initiative enabled them to overcome all obstacles and defeat some of the fiercest soldiers in the world.
It is that same spirit of outstanding service to one’s country that we salute today.
The Order of Military Merit was created to recognize distinctive merit and exceptional service displayed by the women and men of the Canadian Forces.
Throughout our history, Canada has been fortunate to be able to count on women and men of such exemplary calibre.
Time and again, they have demonstrated their dedication, whether defending our borders in the War of 1812, promoting democratic values in the two World Wars, or working to foster peace and stability in countries around the world.
In recent weeks we have been reminded yet again that our Canadian armed forces personnel are prepared to pay the ultimate price in the name of justice and freedom.
The recent deaths of Corporal Benoît Chevalier in Egypt, Corporal Matthew McCully, and, earlier today, another one of our soldiers in Afghanistan, along with all the others that we continue to mourn, are powerful symbols of the devotion to duty of the Canadian Forces.
All of you here today know about commitment to duty. Through your unstinting efforts, you have earned the esteem of your colleagues and the gratitude of your fellow citizens.
That is why, as the commander-in-chief of the Canadian Forces and Chancellor of the Order of Military Merit, I am not only pleased, but proud to invest you in this prestigious Order, as Commanders, Officers and Members.
Today, on behalf of all Canadians, I want to thank each of you.
History will remember the vital roles you have played in order to bring security, justice and freedom to the world.