Districts and Branches News

Normandy-Day Picnic in Lévis

Sunday, June 05, 2011


Lévis — The Honourable Steven Blaney, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Member of Parliament for Lévis-Bellechasse, announced today a federal contribution of up to $4,850 in support of the Normandy-Day picnic commemorating Second World War Veterans.

"Our government is proud to support activities which encourage families and Canadians of all ages to come together and honour the sacrifices of our Veterans," said Minister Blaney. "The men and women who have served in times of war and peace must be honoured and remembered for their great contributions and achievements."

The Fondation du Régiment de la Chaudière hosted the Normandy-Day picnic, as did several municipalities in Normandy. This initiative, introduced 10 years ago in France, has taken hold in many countries including Canada, the United States, France and Belgium. The event featured a variety of activities: an open house at the Musée Le Régiment de la Chaudière, a performance by the CEGEP Lévis-Lauzon choir, a display of period military vehicles, a historical reenactment of the Normandy landings, a commemorative ceremony and activities for youth and families. At the event, the Minister presented the Minister of Veterans Affairs Commendation to a local Second World War Veteran, Mr. Jean Cauchy. He also presented certificates of recognition to five individuals.

"I applaud the Fondation du Régiment de la Chaudière, as well as the people gathering to honour the Veterans who served on the coast of Normandy during the Second World War," added Minister Blaney. "Through initiatives like this one, we ensure that our Veterans' achievements and sacrifices are never forgotten."

Applications to the Community Engagement Partnership Fund are accepted throughout the year. Non-profit groups, educational institutions and other organizations delivering remembrance activities and events may be eligible for funding.

For more information about the Community Engagement Partnership Fund, D-Day or the Battle of Normandy, visit veterans.gc.ca or call 1-866-522-2122       .

Media Enquiries:
Janice Summerby
Media Relations Advisor
Veterans Affairs Canada
Phone: 613-992-7468


The Commander of District 4 St-Laurent and President of Branch 249 La Beauce Comrade Réal Donati, as well as the President of Branch 12 Lévis Comrade Gaétan Paquet, were present to the ceremonies in order to represent Quebec Command. Many legionnaires of Branches 12 and 249 were also attending.





The Government of Canada Supports Remembrance in La Tuque, Quebec

Friday, March 18, 2011



Ottawa — The Honourable Jean-Pierre Blackburn, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Minister of State (Agriculture), announced today up to $3,445 in federal government support for a project in La Tuque, Quebec, to honour Veterans and the memory of those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

"Our government is proud to support community-led projects like this one that encourage Canadians to come together in remembrance," said Minister Blackburn. "The men and women who served during times of war and peace deserve to be honoured for their great contributions and achievements."

During the weekend of May 7—8, 2011, as part of activities marking the centennial of the city of La Tuque and the 80th anniversary of the establishment of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #31, the citizens of La Tuque will honour Veterans who served with the Canadian Forces between 1945 and 2011. The Royal Canadian Legion Branch #31 will unveil an honour roll with the names of traditional and modern-day Veterans and current members of the military. Some 82 citizens of La Tuque took part in the First World War; 600 more saw duty in the Second World War and 300 in military operations since 1945. A commemorative plaque will be kept on permanent display in the Parc du Souvenir to preserve the memory of all military personnel from La Tuque.

"I commend the citizens of La Tuque and the Royal Canadian Legion for bringing people together to honour the men and women of this municipality who have served with the Canadian Forces over many decades," said Minister Blackburn. "Not only are Veterans honoured on this commemorative plaque, but their stories and commitment will live on for generations through commemorative events like this."

Applications to the Community Engagement Partnership Fund are accepted throughout the year. Non-profit groups, educational institutions and other organizations delivering remembrance activities and events may be eligible for funding.

Please visit veterans.gc.ca for more information on this event and a list of the other funded projects. Also visit veterans.gc.ca or call               1-866-522-2122 to learn more about the Community Engagement Partnership Fund or to apply for funding.


Media Enquiries:

Janice Summerby
Media Relations Advisor
Veterans Affairs Canada
Phone: 613-992-7468
     
Sophie Doucet
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Veterans Affairs
Phone: 613-992-3465       
Cell:  613-608-3252