November 6, 2022

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Hello,

I would like to begin by acknowledging that we are gathered here on the unceded territory of the Algonquin Anishinabe people who have lived on and cared for this land for thousands of years.

Welcome, everyone, to the Canada Army Run!

Thank you for coming out on a November morning to participate in this run and to support past and present members of our military, and their families. What a wonderful way to come together!

This event was postponed after the death of Queen Elizabeth the Second, but knowing her lifelong commitment to the Canadian Armed Forces, she would be proud to see the turnout today.

We honour her memory. And we honour each and every member of the Canadian Armed Forces who cannot be here today.

On your route, you will pass Remembrance Row, paying tribute to the fallen. This is particularly poignant as we approach Remembrance Day later this week.

Some of you will also run through the grounds of Rideau Hall, and we look forward to welcoming you there.

Today, I wear the poppy to remember, to honour and to show my support for everyone who serves our country, for their quality of life and for their physical and mental health.

Whether you run the 5k or the 10k—or are simply here to cheer on family and neighbours—I thank you for your generosity, for coming out and for showing what a community can do when people are united in kindness.

I wish everyone a wonderful race!

Thank you.