National Commemorative Ceremony Marking the End of an Era

During the ceremony, the Governor General took the time to speak with Canadian War veterans. The End of an Era is an initiative of the Government of Canada and follows the death of Mr. John “Jack” Babcock, Canada’s last known Canadian First World War veteran. His passing on February 18, 2010, marked the end of an era in Canada’s history.

Her Excellency the Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean, Governor General of and Commander-in-Chief of Canada, attended the National Commemorative Ceremony honouring all of Canada’s First World War service men and women. The ceremony was held on “Vimy Ridge Day”, Friday, April 9, 2010, at the National War Memorial, in Ottawa. The Prime Minister of Canada the Right Honourable Stephen Harper and his wife Ms. Laureen Harper were also in attendance.

As commander-in-chief of the Canadian Forces, the Governor General delivered a speech in which she saluted the courage and tenacity of the men and women who fought during this war.

On behalf of Canadians, she also laid a bouquet of flowers so that their sacrifice is never forgotten.

Her Excellency received a Vice-Regal Salute on the dais. Other Remembrance ceremonies were held today in locations across Canada, as well as in France and in England.

The National Commemorative Ceremony ended with a military parade. Her Excellency, the Prime Minister of Canada and the Chief of the Defence Staff General Walter Natynczyk saluted the Canadian War veterans as they walked down Wellington Street in downtown Ottawa.