Rideau Hall, Saturday, June 22, 2013

It is an honour for me to welcome you to Rideau Hall for this very special event.

As governor general and commander-in-chief of Canada, I am pleased to have this opportunity to recognize those who served in the Korean War.

To recognize you, who served in Korea with such dedication and bravery.

Earlier this year, I had the privilege of travelling to the Republic of Korea to attend the inauguration of President Park—the first woman to hold that position in that country’s history.

I was there to show Canada’s support for the new administration and for the peaceful, democratic transition of power—an event we must never take for granted.

As veterans of the Korean War, you know this only too well.  

My trip included a visit to the War Memorial of Korea, where I laid a wreath in honour of the 60th anniversary of the armistice that ended the conflict.

It was a solemn privilege to perform this small act of remembrance, and to recall the sacrifices of the more than 25 000 Canadians who served in the war, and the 516 who were killed.

Let me assure you, the people of the Republic of Korea have not forgotten the sacrifices of Canadians, who successfully joined with other United Nations forces to halt an act of international aggression.

It was a first for the UN, and this conflict is now an important part of our history.

Not too long ago I shared this story—your story—with inductees of the Order of Military Merit right here in this ballroom. I did so to remind them of their rich heritage as members of the Canadian Forces, and to inspire them with your example.

As Canadians, we must honour and respect the contributions of our veterans. And of course, that includes recognizing those who answered the call and served in Korea during such a critical and uncertain moment in time.

I am delighted to host this reception in your honour, particularly during this, the Year of the Korean War Veteran. Here at Rideau Hall—which, in fact, turns 175 this year—we devote ourselves to telling the story of Canada. We celebrate our achievements, address our shortcomings, and discuss our place in the world.

As veterans of the Korean War, you helped to shape the history of the 20th century. You made a lasting contribution to Canada and to the world, and for that we are grateful.

I would like to say thank you, on behalf of all Canadians.

Thank you for your dedication to this country, and to our ideals of justice, democracy and self-determination.

We are in your debt.