Remembrance Day: Honouring Our Country’s Finest

On November 11th, Canadians remember the generations of men and women in uniform who have answered the call of duty and served our country. From World War I, when Canada first proved our strength and determination as a young nation, to our work in Afghanistan and around the globe today, the courage and sacrifice of the members of our military remain constant.

It’s certain that the conflicts of today look much different than those in the past. However, it is still fathers, mothers, sons, and daughters who put everything on the line to stand up for what they believe in – the values that we as Canadians hold dear.

For the rest of us who owe our freedom to the service of both the past and present generations, it is our duty to support and remember. More than 110,000 men and women died so that we may live free lives today. Taking an active role to remember these great Canadians, along with the veterans who experienced the hardships of military conflict and peace efforts, is one way of saying “thank you.”

This is why, on Remembrance Day in communities across Canada, thousands of families will stand before memorials and cenotaphs for those who made the ultimate sacrifice for Canada. We must make every effort to protect and preserve these monuments that honour our country’s finest. This is why I re-introduced my Private Member’s Bill C-217 (Mischief Relating to War Memorials). The aim of this Bill is to protect Canada’s war memorials from vandalism and desecration. It seeks to amend the Criminal Code of Canada by adding penalties for anyone who damages or desecrates a war memorial, cenotaph, or other structure that honours those who have died as a consequence of war.

The Bill will amend the Criminal Code of Canada to make conviction punishable by a fine of not less than $1,000 on a first offence, imprisonment of not less than 14 days on a second offence, and imprisonment of not less than 30 days on subsequent offences.

Debate on the Bill will commence in the House of Commons on November 3rd. During this reading, I will rise in the House and speak on the rationale of it and then my colleagues will have an opportunity to debate its scope. I look forward to watching the progression of this Bill that will assist in ensuring these cherished symbols of remembrance are respected and always treated with the utmost dignity.

There are many other ways Canadians can be active in saying “thank you.” As a student, one could research the story of a family member, friend or neighbour who served Canada in wartime or peacetime. Tell that person’s story, and describe how his or her life was affected by their service.

One could visit a local nursing home and spend time with those from the wartime generation. Perhaps, write a letter to a Canadian Armed Forces member posted in Canada or overseas.

These are all honourable ways to thank the men and women who have served Canada in times of war for their service.

On November 11th, I will be remembering and saying thank you in Dufferin-Caledon. I hope to see many of you there. On behalf of Prime Minister Stephen Harper and our Government, I want to thank those who have served, and those who continue to serve our great country.

Lest we forget.