Mr. Speaker, on February 15, 1965, Canada's red and white maple leaf flag was raised for the very first time on Parliament Hill. On the same day in 1996, National Flag of Canada Day was declared.
Some 56 years ago, an audience of 10,000 enthusiastically applauded Gaétan Secours. He was a 26-year old RCMP officer when he raised Canada's new flag for the first time over the Peace Tower on Parliament Hill.
In order to celebrate National Flag of Canada Day, in honour and recognition of Mr. Secours's years of service and to commemorate the inauguration of the national flag of Canada, Mr. Secours will receive the maple leaf flag that flew over the Peace Tower on Parliament Hill.
February 15 is a part of Mr. Secours' unique history as well as those of all Canadians. Our national flag is a symbol that unites us all and reflects the shared values we hold so dear: equality, diversity and inclusion.
I send my thanks to Mr. Secours.
I wish him a happy National Flag of Canada Day.