News Release

Marking the 100th Anniversary of the End of the South African War

Ottawa – Tomorrow, May 31, 2002, marks the 100th anniversary of the end of the South African War - the first occasion in which large contingents of Canadian troops served abroad. A war for which more than 7,000 Canadians volunteered and 277 Canadians gave their lives.

"It is important that we remember the brave men and women who were some of the first to leave their homes to defend the values we now hold so dear," said the Honourable Dr. Rey Pagtakhan, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Secretary of State (Science, Research and Development). "They began what has become a long tradition of Canadians serving the cause of peace around the world."

The South African War Book of Remembrance rests in the Memorial Chamber in the Peace Tower on Parliament Hill, and lists the names of all Canadians who lost their lives serving in the South African War. The Book of Remembrance can also be viewed on-line on the Veterans Affairs Canada Web site at www.vac-acc.gc.ca where visitors will find a South African War feature which includes a brief history of the War and Canada's involvement in it, as well as a photo gallery and links to other relevant Web sites.

As well, visitors can use the Canadian Virtual War Memorial at www.virtualmemorial.gc.ca to view the records of Canadian soldiers who lost their lives in the South African War.

All Other Enquiries:
information@vac-acc.gc.ca