Statement

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

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PM STATEMENT ON "THE LAST HUNDRED DAYS" OF THE FIRST WORLD WAR

August 8, 2008
Ottawa, Ontario

Today Prime Minister Stephen Harper issued the following statement regarding "The Last Hundred Days" of the First World War:

"This year, on November 11, Canada will mark the 90th anniversary of the end of the First World War.

More than 100,000 Canadians were at the forefront of many of the great battles in the final days of the war. This period, from August 8 to the signing of the armistice on November 11, is now known as "The Last Hundred Days."

Canadians are right to be proud at what those heroes in the Canadian Corps accomplished. Over "The Last Hundred Days", Canadian soldiers advanced 130 km and 30 Canadians and Newfoundlanders earned the Victorian Cross.

The "Last Hundred Days" did more than just mark the end of the brutality of the First World War it also marked the origins of the modern, cohesive Canadian Military we see today. In addition, the end of the Great War marked the dawn of a new confident and independent Canadian voice on the world stage.

Our honoured veterans helped to build the peaceful and prosperous Canada we know today. They gave everything they had for everything we have. With each passing year, we witness more Canadians taking part in Remembrance Day Ceremonies that honour their courage and sacrifice. They are the heroes responsible for the strong, optimistic Canada we know today.

Those who served, and continue to serve, represent the very best of what it means to be Canadian. We are eternally grateful.

Lest we forget."

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The Prime Minister's Office - Communications
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