Ottawa, ON –The Hon. Pierre Poilievre, Leader of the Conservative Party of Canada and the Official Opposition, released the following statement on National Peacekeepers’ Day:
“Throughout our long history, Canadians have always known that they can count on the men and women of their Armed Forces. Canadian sailors, soldiers, and aviators have always been ready to answer the call – no matter where their mission may take them.
“Today, as we mark the 50th anniversary of the deaths of nine Canadian peacekeepers shot down over Syria, we remember all those brave Canadians who put their lives on the line in the service of peace.
“Approximately 130 members of our Canadian Armed Forces made the ultimate sacrifice while on peace operations. Many others returned home, but struggled with injuries both visible and unseen.
“We also remember the civilian specialists who deployed with them on these missions – together with officers from the RCMP and police forces across the country.
“As we honour the sacrifices of these brave men and women, we renew our commitment to building a military that has the tools and resources it needs to succeed whenever and wherever they are called to serve.
“Lest we forget.”