May 31, 2002
Ottawa, Ontario

Prime Minister Jean Chrétien today issued the following statement on the occasion of his proclamation of "Canadian Forces Day", which will be celebrated each year on the first Sunday of June:

"The Canadian Forces make a significant contribution to the stability and security of Canada and the world. The peacekeeping operations they conduct are more complex and demanding than ever before, and the emergence of new threats like terrorism is making many theatres of operation increasingly dangerous.

Not since the Korean War have the Canadian Forces been so much in demand. At this very moment, more than 4,000 Canadian soldiers are deployed in thirteen unstable regions around the world. Some are waging a hard-fought battle against terrorism in Afghanistan and the Persian Gulf. Others are striving to restore peace in the Balkans. Still others are helping establish democracy in Sierra Leone and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Showing valour and bravery, these extraordinary men and women are doing their duty in hostile environments while enduring lengthy separations from their families.

Within Canada as well, the contribution of the Canadian Forces has been remarkable, whether in protecting Canada's sovereignty and interests or in the fields of research and development, disaster relief, search and rescue and coastal and air surveillance.

Both at home and abroad, members of the Canadian Forces are working tirelessly to build a better world. And for that, Canadians wish to express their infinite gratitude to the members of our Canadian Forces, as well as admiration toward their families for the sacrifices they make every day.

In this spirit, and on behalf of the members of my government and myself, I am very proud to proclaim that the first Sunday in June of each year shall be "Canadian Forces Day".

May it from now on be celebrated as such across Canada and in every part of the world where our soldiers are serving."

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