2006-11-7 S.O.31 - Veterans Week
BLAINE CALKINS, MP
SO-31 - Veterans Week
Mr. Speaker, there are 18 students and their chaperones in Ottawa this week from my hometown of Lacombe, Alberta. They are here to watch democracy in action, and what better time to visit Parliament Hill than Veterans Week. As they walk through these historic halls, sit in this grand chamber and pause to reflect in the memorial Chapel, I hope that they recognize that none of this would be possible without the sacrifices of Canada’s veterans.
Growing up in a peaceful, prosperous Canada, it is easy to forget that freedom is not free. The freedoms that we take for granted were won with courage, determination and valour. They were won by young Canadians, many not much older than the students here today, who gave their lives so that we can enjoy a quality of life that is envied throughout the world.
This week, we celebrate the accomplishments of our veterans, praise their courage and honour their lives. As the torch of remembrance is passed on to the youth of today, I want to encourage these leaders of tomorrow to learn from the lessons of the past and to preserve the legacy of peace and freedom.
Canada’s future depends on it.