Prime Minister pays tribute to the Canadian Forces

Prime Minister Stephen Harper issued the following statement on the occasion of the 5th annual Canadian Forces Day, June 4, 2006.

“Canadian Forces personnel have served our country with pride and honour in times of war and in times of peace.  Often, they faced great danger – with some even giving their lives. But through it all, these men and women have shown great bravery, dedication to duty, and love of country.

Whether in operations at home or abroad, they have shown the fortitude and courage needed to complete their mission and keep Canada strong, united, independent, and free. That is why military service is one of the most important contributions anyone can make to the welfare of our country. 

A good example is our mission in Afghanistan.  When I visited Afghanistan earlier this year, I was inspired by the bravery and courage of our troops there.  They are helping to take back the countryside from terrorist groups and drug lords. They are protecting the Afghan people and aid workers so vitally important humanitarian and development work can go forward.  And they are enhancing security in order to allow Afghan citizens enjoy the freedoms we take for granted.

And this is just one example of the many ways in which our men and women in uniform are helping to build a safer, more secure world for generations to come.

It is for this reason that I join with Canadians from communities large and small across the country to pay tribute to all of our military personnel who are serving their country so selflessly and so well.