Cruise on St. Lawrence Will Commemorate Korean War With Federal Support

QUEBEC CITY, QUEBEC–(EMWNews – July 14, 2008) – Veterans, youth and other special guests will remember the Korean War during a commemorative cruise on the St. Lawrence River with Government of Canada support.

On behalf of the Honourable Greg Thompson, Minister of Veterans Affairs, Daniel Petit, Member of Parliament for Charlesbourg-Haute-Saint-Charles, announced today a contribution to L’Association du 22e Inc., Succursale Québec. The Association’s special event, to be held on July 31, 2008, will honour all Veterans, and in particular, the 516 Canadians who lost their lives as a result of the Korean War.

Funding of up to $5,000, provided through Veterans Affairs Canada’s Community Engagement Partnership Fund, will support the cruise on the St. Lawrence River commemorating the 55th anniversary of the Korean War Armistice. Along with the honoured Veterans, scouts and cadets are invited to participate in the event on July 31, 2008. The event will include a performance by a Korean children’s choir and a sunset ceremony, where flowers will be dropped into the river and doves will be released into the evening air in memory of those who lost their lives in the Korean War.

“This beautiful event is symbolic of the peace and freedom Canadians enjoy today,” said Minister Thompson. “We believe everyone should have these same freedoms, which is why we honour our service men and women who defended the people of the Republic of Korea.”

“This event is a great opportunity to thank Veterans and to demonstrate our admiration for every Canadian who participated in the Korean War,” said Mr. Petit. “By using their talents, local youth will also express their gratitude.”

The Community Engagement Partnership Fund provides funding to non-profit groups, educational institutions and other organizations delivering remembrance activities and events. Administered through Veterans Affairs Canada, contributions are made throughout the year and encompass both national and community-based projects.

To learn more about the Community Engagement Partnership Fund, call 1-877-604-8489 or consult www.vac-acc.gc.ca.