Ottawa, Ontario - Tilly O’Neill Gordon, MP for Miramichi, is proud to highlight the exceptional work done by peacekeepers.

On June 18, 2008, August 9 was designated National Peacekeepers’ Day in Canada.  On that day, we remember the peacekeepers who have sacrificed so much, even their lives, so others can know peace.  We take the time to remember these heroes on August 9 because it was on that date in 1974 that the greatest single loss of Canadian lives on a peacekeeping mission occurred:  nine Canadians were killed while serving with the United Nations Emergency Force in Egypt and Israel.

“Often our peacekeepers find themselves in countries in crisis, where they are frequently the only hope for peace for the inhabitants of devastated regions,” Ms O’Neill Gordon said.  “By taking the time to remember the services and sacrifices of members of the Canadian Forces, past and present, we are showing our gratitude for the freedom these men and women continue to defend.”

Canada’s Armed Forces, Canadian diplomats, the RCMP, provincial and municipal police forces and civilians all take part in peacekeeping.  Peacekeepers deliver humanitarian aid, supervise elections, repatriate refugees, train local police forces, disarm warring factions, clear mines and improve education and democratic systems.

“As a member of the Parliament of Canada, I feel a special concern for the fate of our peacekeepers, who are defending what we believe in as a nation:  peace, freedom and justice,” Tilly O’Neill Gordon said.

National Peacekeepers’ Day is an important opportunity for expressing our pride and gratitude, not only toward the members of Canada's military, but also towards those of the RCMP and other police forces, the diplomatic corps and the civilians who have supported and continue to support international peacekeeping and security operations here and throughout the world.

For further information on the role played by Canada in international peacekeeping and support missions, please go to www.vac-acc.gc.ca.
The Canadian Peacekeeping Veterans Association, Miramichi, Chapter, would like to extend an invitation to everyone to attend the annual parade and memorial service for Canadian Peacekeeping Veterans.  The service is held annually on 09 August, 11:00, at the Newcastle square monument.