Rideau Hall, Saturday, May 14, 2016

What a pleasure it is to welcome all of you to Rideau Hall, the home of the people of Canada, for the Military Tattoo.

This is a wonderful afternoon of music, marching, pageantry and precision!

Today, we have it all: military bands, pipes and drums, Aboriginal traditions, Highland dancers and so much more.

From the historic military drill and reenactment to the rifle and cannon fire, there is so much to take in.

We’ll even hear music from “Star Wars”!

I want to thank the members of the Canadian Armed Forces for performing in this event.

These men and women are with the Royal Military College of Canada, the Governor General’s Horse Guards, the Governor General’s Foot Guards and Band, the Canadian Grenadier Guards and the Central Band of the Canadian Armed Forces.

To all of you: your dress, drill and deportment are so impressive!

I’m so proud to wear the Army uniform alongside all of you today. I’m so proud to serve as commander-in-chief of Canada.

Today’s event is a demonstration of the military excellence, the teamwork and the sense of camaraderie that animates our Canadian Armed Forces. Whether serving overseas or here in Canada, our men and women in uniform give us so much to be thankful for.

It’s so important that we take the time to hold this military tattoo. The music and drills foster morale and a sense of esprit de corps, which in turn strengthen operational effectiveness.

Those of you who have come to watch and listen today are doing your part, too. Your presence is important. Your support matters, and I thank you for being here.

This event also provides an ideal opportunity to celebrate an important milestone: the 90th birthday of Her Majesty The Queen.

She is a proud supporter of our Canadian Armed Forces, and I’m certain she would be most impressed with this display.

Thank you all for your dedication and for your professionalism.

Have a wonderful afternoon!