The Citadelle, Friday, June 27, 2008

It is an honour to welcome you here to the Citadelle, where some of the decisive pages in our military history have been written.

This is the home of the Royal 22^e Régiment, Canada’s only entirely Francophone infantry regiment.

As we celebrate the 400^th anniversary of the founding of the City of Québec this year, I cannot imagine a more fitting place than this in which to honour you.

If I may, I would like to speak to you today from the heart.

Because I feel I should tell you how profoundly this ceremony touches me.

You know, this is only the fourth time that we have presented decorations for military valour since they were created in 1993, and every time, I am deeply moved.

Moved and overwhelmed, because I never forget that you are putting your lives in danger to save others.

Behind each of these acts of exceptional bravery, behind this exemplary meritorious service, there is an ultimate sacrifice.

And as a woman, as a mother, as commander-in-chief, I cannot help but think of the cost and breadth of your sacrifice. Or that of your families, who love you and support you, come what may.

I know this because I have met many of your loved ones at the resource centres I have visited. So many wives and mothers have shared with me the challenges they face every day. And they have also told me how proud they are of you.

And I know this because I have stood alongside grieving families at CFB Trenton on several occasions.

These parents have shared their pain with me, but they have also told me how much they respect the choice made by their loved one, whose life was cut short in Afghanistan.

I recognize here today some of the faces that I have seen on those occasions. I know that this ceremony will not be easy for you, but it is a powerful testament to the respect and pride I spoke of earlier.

This past May 16, when I unveiled the Canadian Victoria Cross—the highest honour that our military men and women can receive for valour in the presence of the enemy—, I hoped with all of my heart that I would never have to present it.

Because there have been so many, in the course of history, who have posthumously received the British Victoria Cross, upon which the Canadian Victoria Cross was based. This should give you an idea of the extreme danger they have had to face.

Indeed, Canada’s military involvement in Afghanistan has thrust you into the deadliest combat situations since the Korean War.

And no matter what the circumstances, you must draw upon your courage, calm, initiative and ingenuity, but also on your compassion. Because you are there to help men, women, children and communities.

This is what will determine the success of this mission.

I think we can all agree that it is very often in the most difficult situations that we show our true worth.

You are absolute proof of this.

You have shown the world what you are made of.

Nonetheless, I have no doubt that it is with great humility that you receive this honour bestowed upon you today.

“I was just doing my duty.” How many times have I heard that phrase at previous ceremonies?

Your duty required you to take part in operations and missions.

But you went well beyond what was expected of you.

You risked your lives to protect others.

You also took the lead, using your skills and talents to serve the Forces, your country, the international community, and the broader human family to which we all belong.

This is why these military valour and meritorious service decorations are being presented to you this afternoon.

Think about it: how many soldiers and civilians have been put out of harm’s way, saved, protected, how many have survived because of your actions?

I believe there is no greater honour than knowing with absolute certainty that your efforts have had an impact on the lives of so many.

Every time I hear that one of you has saved the life of one of your troops, every time I hear of the success of one of your missions, I think of you so far away and of all those parents, spouses, children and friends who have been spared the pain of such a tragic loss.

And each time that your efforts bear fruit and help to improve the lives of Afghan citizens, I think of the women, men and children I met over there, whose daily lives are a lesson in courage. And I am once again filled with hope.

Your task is so important.

Your task brings hope to so many.

On behalf of all Canadians, I thank you and want you to know how very proud of you I am. How very proud of you we all are.

I also want to thank your families. Your brothers and sisters. Your parents. Your partners. Your children. Your loved ones.

We can never overstate their contribution to the success of the Forces and its missions on behalf of Canada and a democratic ideal.

I have no doubt that history will remember the vital role you have played in making a difference and in bringing peace, justice and stability to our world.

Thank you, so very much.