November 11, 2010

On behalf of the Government of Canada, Rona Ambrose, Minister of Public Works and Government Services and Minister for the Status of Women, laid a wreath paying homage to Canada’s armed forces veterans at a Remembrance Day ceremony hosted by the Royal Canadian Legion’s Stony Plain branch at Memorial Composite High School in Stony Plain. The Minister also spoke and visited with veterans at Royal Canadian Legion halls in Stony Plain and Spruce Grove.

“Today, we remember the brave men and women in Canada’s armed forces who served and fought with courage and valour under Canada’s flag,” Minister Ambrose said, “Whether fighting in the First or Second World War, Korea, Afghanistan or Canada’s numerous peace keeping missions, we will never forget the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country and for their fellow Canadians.”

Minister Ambrose joined Stony Plain MLA Fred Lindsay, Deputy Mayor of Stony Plain Darren Badry, Parkland County Mayor Rodney Shaigec and over 1000 residents attending the ceremony which included regiments from CFB Edmonton, the RCMP, local police forces, military and naval cadets.

“Remembrance Day is an important day for our veterans and armed forces men and women and we really thank Rona for her participation in today’s ceremony,” Bob McComb, President of the Royal Canadian Legion Stony Plain branch said. “She has been a staunch supporter of the Stony Plain legion in the past and we look forward to her support into the future,” he added.
Minister Ambrose also visited with veterans and constituents at Royal Canadian Legions in Stony Plain and Spruce Grove. She was humbled and moved by the stories of veterans and soldiers who put themselves in harm’s way to serve their country.

“Canada and Canadians owe our armed forces veterans a great deal of respect and gratitude,” Minister Ambrose said.

“At home and overseas, our soldiers’ contributions and sacrifices have helped secure our rights, our democracy and our way of life in Canada, while providing millions of people both in Afghanistan and around the world with security, aid, and development to form the foundation and hope for a new beginning and a better future.”