Madam Speaker, today is VE Day, Victory in Europe Day, which marks the 58th anniversary of the liberation of Europe.
On this historic occasion, Canadians from sea to sea to sea will be joining their European counterparts in remembering those who served and made the ultimate sacrifice to defend liberty.
Close to one million Canadian men and women volunteered to fight for their country in its time of greatest need. By the end of this horrific conflict more than 45,000 Canadians had given their lives and up to 55,000 were wounded. Our military men and women were and are second to none, no matter what the conflict.
Today, we also pay tribute not only to those who served in Europe, but to those Canadians from all walks of life who contributed in a significant way to the war effort. Whether in factories, schools or at home, these Canadians toiled relentlessly to support their loved ones.
Their legacy lies in their courage and inexorable will to defend the values and freedoms which we enjoy today. Lest we forget.