Established in 2008, National Peacekeepers Day celebrates the pride and respect for Canada’s armed forces, and reminds us to a take a moment and give thanks for the sacrifices made by our men and women in uniform for the sake of peace.
Today’s date commemorates the loss of nine Canadian peacekeepers on August 9, 1974, when their UN-marked plane was shot down over Syria during a regular resupply mission. It remains the largest loss of peacekeepers in Canadian history.
For over 60 years, more than 125,000 Canadians have answered the call to serve and participated in peacekeeping missions around the world. Canadian soldiers, sailors and Air Force personnel have earned a reputation for compassion and courage. We salute them today.
We also mourn the 122 Canadians who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the name of peace. We give thanks for their bravery. Their name liveth forevermore.