Throughout our history, the Legion has maintained a leading role in the creation and care of memorials to the contributions in valour of our brave veterans and Canadians. Working in concert with other veterans organizations and the Canadian government, the Legion has vowed to ensure that the preservation of the records and memories of our fallen heroes and returning veterans continues in perpetuity.
These and other commemorative projects and activities led by the Royal Canadian Legion have been welcomed by Canadians, who have never hesitated to demonstrate their support in acknowledging the debt that is owed to those who sacrificed so much. We repay this debt in our remembrance.
What of commemorative celebrations in the 21st century? With over 100,000 students taking part in our annual remembrance contests and with audiences of up to 55,000 in attendance at the national Remembrance Day ceremony and over four million television viewers of the ceremony, are we really witnessing a resurgence of remembrance in the country? Will the traditional methods of commemorating remain effective as we progress through the decades of this century?
The importance of honouring our military heritage and paying tribute to those who fought and fell will remain a cornerstone of the Legion's mission. We will continue with our existing programs and develop new national initiatives while remaining cognizant of the importance of participation in community-led events.
We believe that memorials and observances at cenotaphs are an important facet of any commemorative program. They convey a sense of national unity and a manner of recognizing loss, and they stand as our visual pledge to never forget. They enable Canadians in every community to share our common history of sacrifice and commitment.
We will continue to focus on educating youth on why we remember. This concept is paramount as we strive to raise awareness among all Canadians and those of future generations.
The Legion supports in-country recognition of significant anniversaries of milestone events, and to that end we have initiated internal discussions to recognize the 100th anniversary of the start of World War I in 2014 and the 100th anniversary of Beaumont Hamel in 2016. In 2017 we will observe the 100th anniversary of the Battle of Vimy Ridge, the 100th anniversary of the Halifax explosion, and the 150th anniversary of Canada. In 2018 we will mark the 100th anniversary of the end of the World War I. I will add here that in 2026 we will also commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Royal Canadian Legion.
For the Royal Canadian Legion, commemorative celebrations in the 21st century will continue in order to honour and thank our veterans. We will remember them.
Thank you.