Military Service Recognition Book

3 www.on.legion.ca ONTARIO COMMAND I would like to extend warm greetings to our veterans and everyone who has contributed to the annual Military Service Recognition Book of the Royal Canadian Legion Ontario Command. In these pages you’ll find stories of true Canadian heroes — those who have served and are still serving in our Canadian Armed Forces, the Commonwealth or Allied Forces. Canadian heroes span every generation. This year, we celebrated the 75th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day, which recognizes Canada’s pivotal role in liberating Europe from the brutal tyranny of the Nazi regime. Whether it was the First World War, the Second World War, Korea or Afghanistan, wherever or whenever the world's most evil powers rose up: Canadians were there, and ready to fight. Many made the ultimate sacrifice and, for that, we will be forever grateful. Many more continue to serve today as peacekeepers wherever there is conflict in the world. I thank the hard-working team behind the Ontario Command for this worthy recognition of those who serve our country, here in Canada and around the world. As a proud member of The Royal Canadian Legion Coronation Branch 286, I know first-hand how much Legion branches do to build better communities — providing essential services to veterans and their families, raising funds for hospitals, nursing homes, fire departments, bursaries and homeless veterans, to name a few. It is my hope that these stories will help present and future generations of Ontarians understand the price we pay for our freedoms, and truly appreciate the blessings of democracy. Best wishes to everyone. Doug Ford Premier A MESSAGE FROM PREMIER DOUGFORD

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