June 2, 2008

I am pleased to send my warmest greetings to all of the women and men currently serving at home and abroad today, on Canadian Forces Day.

Today’s young Canadians are driven by a powerful sense of compassion and a broad view of our global community. Rather than merely observe, the women and men of this generation are eager to bring about change in the world around them.

It is this generosity that drives many to answer the call of duty of the Canadian Forces. A generosity that drives them to leave everything behind—their family and friends, their homes and way of life—and travel thousands of miles in order to bring aid, peace and stability to people they have never even met. This selfless gift for the good of humanity is humbling to witness, and is an immense source of pride for all Canadians.

As commander-in-chief of the Canadian Forces, I commend each of these extraordinary individuals on their tireless efforts to ensure that the forces of creation triumph over the forces of destruction throughout the world. 

Michaëlle Jean