Mr. Speaker, today a plaque will be unveiled at the Canadian War Museum to commemorate the contribution made by 300 West Indian men and women who joined Canada's armed forces to fight alongside Canadians during the second world war.
These men and women came from nine islands in the West Indies. After their military service in Canada, three became prime ministers of their native countries.
Also, I would like to pay special homage to Mr. Owen Rowe for his role in ensuring that Canada's new war museum officially recognizes the contribution made by these West Indian men and women. Unfortunately, Mr. Rowe passed away on April 16.
This plaque is the result of efforts by a number of veterans to obtain national and international recognition for West Indian veterans' service to Canada.
I am proud to be participating today in such an important historical event.