WINNIPEG, MANITOBA--(Marketwire - July 22, 2012) - On behalf of the Honourable Steven Blaney, Minister of Veterans Affairs, Lawrence Toet, Member of Parliament for Elmwood-Transcona, today participated in the Belgian Independence Day parade in Winnipeg, Manitoba, where he took the occasion to also mark the 68th anniversary of the liberation of Belgium.
"Canada played a significant role in the liberation of Belgium in September 1944," said Minister Blaney. "More than 800 Canadians died in their efforts to help restore peace and freedom to the country during the Second World War."
"Our Government recognizes the sacrifices and contributions of all Canadian Veterans who have served our great country at home and abroad," said MP Lawrence Toet. "That is why we are so proud to support events such as the Belgian Independence Day parade here in Winnipeg."
This annual event is hosted by Royal Canadian Legion Branch 107 (Belgian Veterans Association) in Winnipeg's historical French-speaking neighbourhood of Saint Boniface. It is one of the largest Legion parades held over the summer in Manitoba.
For more information on Canada's contribution to the liberation of Belgium, visit www.veterans.gc.ca.