Madam Speaker and colleagues, as Veterans' Week approaches, I rise to share a heartfelt message with Canada's veterans and their families. To every veteran, past, present and future, and to the families who stand with them, we see them, we thank them and we honour them.
In the week ahead, leading to Remembrance Day on November 11, Canadians from coast to coast to coast will gather in communities large and small to reflect on the courage and sacrifice of those who have served in uniform.
Canada's veterans and Canadian Armed Forces members have selflessly stood on the front lines in times of war and peace, at home and around the world, to protect what matters most: our safety, our freedoms and our way of life. It is because of their service that Canadians live in peace, our sovereignty is protected and our communities are secure.
We must never forget that these freedoms have come at a cost, a cost carried not only by those who serve but by their families, their friends and the communities that support them. Some made the ultimate sacrifice and gave their lives in defence of our freedoms. Their absence reminds us of the true price of service. Those who returned continued to bear the weight of that commitment in ways both visible and invisible.
It is our solemn duty as Canadians, as a government and as a nation to honour their courage and to stand steadfastly beside them as they continue their lives beyond service. This is not only our responsibility; it is our promise. All Canadians owe them a debt that can never be fully repaid, but we can and must show our gratitude through action, support and remembrance.
Those who came before laid the foundation upon which our country stands, and they continue to inspire us to build a better Canada and a better world. However, remembrance is not only about honouring history; it is also about recognizing the contributions of modern-day veterans. Many continue to serve their communities in new ways, as first responders, volunteers, mentors and leaders. Their legacy endures not only in what they have achieved in uniform, but in the ways they continue to make a difference every day.
My time in the role as Minister of Veterans Affairs has broadened my understanding of the exceptional people who protect our country. While there are too many to mention individually, the stories I have heard of resilience, breaking barriers, dedication and commitment will inspire me always.
To those listening today in communities from St. John's to Victoria, from Windsor to Iqaluit, who will gather in remembrance of family, friends and neighbours, we thank them for keeping the stories of our service members alive.
To my fellow parliamentarians who have worn the uniform and served, we thank them for their service and for bringing the spirit of duty into this House.
To the veterans of tomorrow, those who are just beginning their service or nearing its end, we recognize their sacrifices and the example they carry forward.
Canada remembers and stands with them, today, tomorrow and always.
I close by encouraging all members in the House and those listening to join in a moment of pause and quiet reflection in the coming days. I invite them to honour those who have served and continue to serve on behalf of Canada, our veterans. Lest we forget.