Mr. Speaker, on May 7, 1945, Germany surrendered unconditionally to the allied forces at Reims, France, meaning victory in Europe.
In the six years of conflict Canada had enlisted more than one million men and women in our armed forces. More than 45,000 gave their lives in the cause of peace and freedom.
For a population of 11 million, our contribution was remarkable, from the battle of Britain, the battle of the Atlantic, Dieppe, Sicily, Italy, Normandy, the Netherlands and the Rhineland. We must remember the contribution of our soldiers, sailors, merchant marines and air crews.
Canada matured through the ordeal of war and emerged ready to assume new responsibilities in the world community.
On May 3, 1915, Lt. Col. John McRae composed his poem In Flanders Fields in 20 minutes while overlooking the grave of a fellow officer at Ypres.
Some 54 years later we must remember those who served for Canada and honour the words written by him:
Take up our quarrel with the foe: To you from failing hands we throw The torch; be yours to hold it high. If ye break faith with us who die We shall not sleep, though poppies grow In Flanders fields.