Prime Minister Stephen Harper today issued the following statement to mark the 67th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day (V-E Day):
“Today I join Canadians and the international community in marking the anniversary of Victory in Europe Day – the day in 1945 when Nazi Germany capitulated to Allied Forces.
“It is a day for the world to celebrate the triumph of good over evil, of Allied victory over a fascist regime that stained history with the atrocities of the Holocaust.
“It is also a time to remember those brave Canadians and Allies who left the warmth of their homes and the comfort of their families to face the hardships of war to preserve the values of freedom, democracy and rule of law that we continue to hold dear today.
“Let us honour the one million Canadians who served their country during the Second World War, and never forget the 42,000 soldiers, sailors and airmen who made the ultimate sacrifice".
“Canadians have always answered the call to stand up for what is just in the world. It is part of what defines us as a nation.
“As we remember this victory, let us offer our heartfelt gratitude to all members of the Canadian Armed Forces – both past and present – and their families who have put the interests of our great nation ahead of their own.
“Their courage and self-sacrifice make us proud to be Canadian.
“Lest we forget.” 
