Government of Canada Remembers the Korean War With Commemorative Cruise and Presentation of Memorial Cross in Quebec City

Market Wire, July, 2008

The Honourable Greg Thompson, Minister of Veterans Affairs, today spoke to Canadian and Korean Veterans during a commemorative cruise in Quebec City hosted by the Association du 22e Regiment. Minister Thompson also presented to Theresa Lavoie-Mullins, widow of Veteran Richard Mullins, a Memorial Cross-one of Canada's most highly-regarded honours. Mr. Mullins, who served overseas in the Korean War, was remembered for his service and dedication during the ceremony.

"We are here to honour you-the brave Canadian and Korean Veterans who courageously stepped forward when you were needed," said Minister Thompson. "We are inspired by your extraordinary efforts and we admire your perseverance."

Daniel Petit, Member of Parliament for Charlesbourg-Haute-Saint-Charles and Gil-sou Shin, Consul General for the Republic of Korea also spoke to the Veterans.

The cruise aboard the M/S Jacques-Cartier was organized to mark the 55th anniversary of the Korean War Armistice. Korean and Canadian Veterans were reunited aboard the cruise with an interpreter present. Both Canadian and traditional Korean elements such as Korean dishes, incense, and performances by a Korean choir in traditional costume were part of the event. A sunset ceremony featured the release of white doves and the laying of 516 white roses into the St. Lawrence River to remember the 516 Canadians who died during or as a result of the Korean War.

The Memorial Cross, often referred to as the Silver Cross, was created in 1919 to commemorate those who died in the First World War. It has historically been awarded to mothers and widows, or the eldest surviving next of kin, of Canadian Forces members who died on active duty or whose death was consequently attributed to such duty.

From 1950 to 1953, more than 26,000 Canadians served in Korea-working to restore peace and stability to the area. On July 27, 1953, the Korean War Armistice was signed, ending three years of fighting. An additional 7,000 Canadians served between the signing of the Armistice and the end of 1955, with some Canadian troops remaining until 1957.

For more information on the Memorial Cross or the Korean War and events in your area, visit the Veterans Affairs Canada Web site at www.vac-acc.gc.ca .

Contacts: Veterans Affairs Canada Janice Summerby Media Relations Advisor 613-992-7468 Office of the Minister of Veterans Affairs Wes McLean Senior Policy Advisor 613-996-4649 Veterans Affairs Canada Nancy Caron Regional Communications Advisor 514-283-2198