Every year on November 11, Canadians pause in a silent moment of remembrance for the men and women who have served and continue to serve our country during times of war, conflict and peace. More than 1,500,000 Canadians have served our country in this way, and more than 100,000 have died. They gave their lives and their futures so that we may live in peace.

Why remember? We often take for granted our Canadian values and institutions, our freedom to participate in cultural and political events, and our right to live under a government of our choice. I believe it is vital that all of us become more aware of the incredible sacrifices and accomplishments of our men and women in uniform. If we do not, their sacrifices will be meaningless. We must never take the freedom and peace we enjoy today for granted. It is in fact, our duty.

By remembering their service and their sacrifice, we recognize the tradition of freedom these men and women fought to preserve. They believed that their actions in the present would make a difference for the future, but it is up to us to ensure that their dream of peace is realized. On Remembrance Day, let us acknowledge the courage and sacrifice of those who served their country and acknowledge our responsibility to work for the peace they fought hard to achieve.

I would like to thank our Royal Canadian Legions and Veterans Association for the tremendous work they do to support our Veterans, and for organizing opportunities for remembrance in our community each year. Whether it is pausing for a minute of silence at 11 a.m. on November 11, pinning a poppy above your heart or attending a Remembrance Day ceremony I invite you to join me in acknowledging the courage and gallantry of those who served their country. Lest we forget.