Mr. Speaker, D-Day was an offensive on a scale never seen before. As part of this massive surprise attack, Canadian soldiers of the 1st Canadian Parachute Battalion dropped in from behind enemy lines to stop German reinforcements, while the Royal Canadian Navy and Royal Canadian Air Force laid the path. All of this made the way for over 14,000 brave Canadian soldiers landing at Juno Beach who defeated the enemy, despite heavy losses. In so doing, they marked a major turning point in World War II.
D-Day is clearly one of Canada's most defining military achievements. Whether young or old, Canadians will never forget the sacrifice and bravery of those who were there. I stand with all members in this place today to mark the 69th anniversary of D-Day.