Rideau Hall, Friday November 11, 2011

My wife, Sharon, and I are honoured to welcome you to Rideau Hall on our national day of remembrance.

Remembrance Day is a day of contrasts, when we remember the wars of the past, as we look ahead to the future.

It is a day of honouring the sacrifices of the fallen, as we support those who remain, presenting a medal that no mother ever wants to receive, while treasuring the memory of her son.

Remembrance Day commemorates the thousands who readily answered our nation’s call and gave their best during the most promising seasons of their lives.

Remembrance Day also compels us to give a thought to the winters endured by those they left behind, to remember how their families’ lives were overtaken by the evils of war and how their joy was overshadowed by grief.

Mrs. Braun, I imagine that as you look back over David’s life, you can still sense his optimism about his role and recall his excitement as he donned his uniform. He was proud to be counted among the Princess Pats and accepted his duty willingly. David, like all of Canada’s servicemen and women, was filled with a bold, unwavering conviction to serve his country.

And yet, I can also appreciate how you might have wanted him to quit or considered asking him not to serve. We can all understand the tears you may have shed as you watched him deploy, praying for his safe return.

On behalf of all Canadians, I offer you and your family my sincerest condolences.

And I assure you that all Canadians are mourning your loss today, even as we thank you with grateful hearts for your sacrifice, and the rich legacy of service he left behind.

For, as Dietrich Bonhoeffer, a theologian, writer and member of the German resistance movement during World War II, once said, “Gratitude changes the pangs of memory into a tranquil joy.” 

Corporal David Braun’s life will continue to remind us that perseverance can have a purpose. Hard times can lead to hope. Challenges can shape a person’s or a nation’s character for the better. War can lead to peace.

Last November, I had the privilege of travelling to Afghanistan to see what Canadian men and women, like David, have done and continue to do. 

I saw how they have been steadily rebuilding a country torn apart by generations of war. 

I witnessed how they have given the Afghan people the chance to live in safer communities, go to school, rebuild their economy, and discover more sustainable, productive means by which to make a living. 

Through their efforts, the Afghan people have begun to understand the precious rights and freedoms that we, in Canada, so richly enjoy. 

What resonated most with me was how these Canadian men and women, like David, have selflessly offered their lives to keep our country, and our world, glorious and free.

Thank you.