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They fought for the ideals of peace and to defend our liberties. Many were wounded in their body and in their soul. Many paid the ultimate price. We owe them an immense debt of gratitude. We must never forget their sacrifice and the terrible costs of war. Let us never take freedom for granted, and stand up for equality and tolerance.

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Whether at Vimy, on the beaches of Normandy or on the banks of the Scheldt, in the streets of Ortona or in South-east Asia, and later in Korea, the Gulf, in Afghanistan, peacekeeping in various corners of the world, Canadians have always served - and continue to serve - bravely, selflessly and with great distinction. We have a duty to remember. Today and always.

Hello everyone!

You must have noticed that the eyes of the world are currently focused on ‘The Beautiful Game’.

And in 8 years’ time, it will be Canada’s turn to co-host the World Cup and be the centre of attention.

It will be an historic occasion – and a chance for Canada to demonstrate that the values of soccer – well, the values of sports, really -- are Canadian values. Teamwork, perseverance, fair play, excellence.

I’ve been Governor General for almost a year now and it’s been a quite a ride! As I make my way to every province and territory from coast to coast to coast I am privileged to meet exceptional Canadians from all origins and to see Canada from a new perspective.

I had the opportunity to cheer on our Canadian athletes in PyeongChang. It was Canada’s best-ever showing at games. They make us so proud!

I’ve met men and women in uniform and their families. They serve and defend our country here and elsewhere in the world.

I’ve been so impressed by the warmth, wisdom and know-how of Indigenous peoples. They enrich our society in so many ways.

And one of my favourite things is to meet young people who are so curious and full of ideas. They are our future.

We are fortunate. Canada is a country where so much is possible and where we can dare to dream. But let us not forget to be true to our values. And to remain open, caring and engaged.

Hey, summer has reached our northern latitudes. On this Canada Day and onward, I encourage you to appreciate and discover our vast country in your own way. Have fun and make the most of this beautiful season.

I for one love to be outside and I take every opportunity to get moving. I don’t have the talent of Christine Sinclair and I’ll never play in a World Cup – but I don’t let that stop me.

I just wish I could bike more often. Anything to keep mind and body active!

Wherever you are today, whether you’re in in Canada or abroad, wear your maple leaf proudly. This is your celebration.

Happy Canada Day!

One hundred years ago – on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month – the First World War finally came to a close. It was supposed to be the war to end all wars.

For those who lived a century ago, this moment marked the end of a long, painful and devastating chapter in our history.

Much changed in the world following the war. Canada, for one, emerged with greater independence and a new standing among nations.

But it was all achieved at a terrible cost. 66,000 killed. 172,000 wounded. The sacrifices made by our men and women in uniform – and by their families and loved ones here in Canada – were immense.

Canadians fought bravely through the mud and the horror of war. Together they formed some of the most effective units on the Western Front. And as such they earned the respect and gratitude of all.

A century later, we remember. And to this day, we have a tradition. We wear the poppy. A flower that thrived in the battlefields of Flanders.

I was a student in Wales in my teenage years when I first visited the fields of Flanders. I will never forget.

I have just returned from Belgium where I honoured those who served and who fell in battle.

Here in Canada, on Remembrance Day, it is important that we pause. We stand in silence.

We honour those who have served our country – and those who continue to serve – in times of war, conflict and peace.

At this time, we give thanks to the 2 million Canadians who have worn a military uniform, from Confederation to the present.

We think of all those who have been injured, in body and in mind. • We remember those who have given their lives.

We’re also grateful to their families, who have suffered losses, and who have been so strong.

 I am very proud to be part of the military family. As Commander-in-Chief, I have the privilege of visiting with members across Canada and abroad, and of wearing the uniform and symbols that make our country proud.

On this 100th anniversary of the Armistice, marking the end of the First World War, let us pay tribute to our veterans and military members. Let us celebrate them as national heroes.

And let us honour their bravery and their sacrifice by working together for a more peaceful world.

Today and always.

Lest we forget.