The Canada Pavilion Salutes Canada's Veterans at the Western Fair

LONDON, ONTARIO, August 31, 2005 - The Government of Canada is proud to participate in this year's Western Fair from September 9 to 18, 2005. And for good reason!

In honour of the bravery and commitment of our Canadian war veterans, the Canada Pavilion will feature a special tribute called The Life of a Canadian Soldier.

This is especially fitting, as 2005 is the Year of the Veteran, with events of remembrance taking place throughout the country to recognize the contributions of our veterans. It is a national celebration of veterans' achievements and an opportunity to preserve the memory of their momentous sacrifices.

The Life of a Canadian Soldier, a heart-warming presentation developed by Veterans Affairs Canada, is a theatrical re-enactment that uses artifacts, mementos and the personal memories of our veterans to bring alive the Battle of Vimy Ridge and life as it was in the trenches of France during World War 1.

Indian and Northern Affairs Canada will also be part of the Canada Pavilion with an interactive display about the contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples, and Northerners. Visitors can also participate in the building of a small Inuksuk and enjoy an audio-visual montage called Sharing the Story: The Inuksuk.

The Canada Pavilion gives Canadians an opportunity to meet in person with Government of Canada representatives from various departments and agencies, and to learn more about the many programs and services available to them.

The Canada Pavilion's presence at the Western Fair is the fifth in a series of nine special events that take place from coast to coast during 2005-2006.

Visit the Canada Pavilion when it stops at the Western Fair!

For more information on Government of Canada programs and services, visit canada.gc.ca or call the toll-free number 1 800 O-Canada.

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For further information, media may contact:

Pierre Téotonio
Senior Media Relations Advisor
Public Works and Government Services Canada
(819) 956-2310

PWGSC news releases are also available on our Internet site at www.pwgsc.gc.ca/comm/min/text/mediaroom-e.html