Statement

From the Prime Minister's Web Site (http://www.pm.gc.ca/)

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STATEMENT BY THE PRIME MINISTER ON THE DEATH OF WW I VETERAN DWIGHT WILSON

May 9, 2007
Ottawa, Ontario

Prime Minister Stephen Harper today released the following statement on the death of First World War Veteran Dwight Wilson:

"Today I was deeply saddened to learn of the death of Dwight Wilson, one of Canada's last surviving veterans of the First World War. On behalf of all Canadians, I would like to extend my sincere condolences to Mr. Wilson's family and friends. As a nation, we honour his service and mourn his passing.

Mr. Wilson was one of more than 600,000 Canadians and Newfoundlanders who joined the military to fight in the First World War, the "War to End All Wars" – a war that would cost our country approximately 66,000 brave countrymen and women. Each year, on November 11, we remember them, as well as the thousands of other brave men and women who have perished in Canada's other military conflicts around the world.

Mr. Wilson will be missed by many. All Canadians, no matter where they live, should not forget him, and the others of his generation, who gave so much for their country. The sacrifices made and remarkable bravery displayed by Mr. Wilson and his comrades is a lesson for us all."

Mr. Wilson was 106 years old and his passing now leaves only one known surviving Canadian First World War Veteran.

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The Prime Minister's Office - Communications
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