The Victoria Day weekend is a welcome break for Canadians from coast-to-coast.
It is also an appropriate time to honour Canada's proud traditions.
Today Prime Minister Stephen Harper announced that Canada is unveiling a distinctly Canadian Victoria Cross that can and will only be used by Canadians.
The inscription on the Victoria Cross will change to Latin, in order to Honour both our English and French ancestors and the universal ideals they shared.
In addition future Victoria Cross medals will contain metal from the original 1867 Confederation medals, as well as metal from every region of the country.
The new Victoria Cross will represent the very best of what it means to be Canadian. Proud of our heritage, yet equally proud of Canada’s own unique identity and contributions around the world.
As Prime Minister Harper put it:
“Every day, in military missions at home and abroad, Canadian soldiers, sailors and airmen are putting their lives on the line for us.
In the tradition of their predecessors, they are facing danger with courage, conducting themselves with honour, and getting the job done under trying circumstances.
We rarely hear about their everyday heroics. But someday, somewhere, one of those men or women will do something so brave, so gallant, so exceptional, that we will hear about it.
And he or she will join the legendary cadre of the Canadian Forces who wear the pride of a nation on their chests.”
On behalf of Prime Minister Harper and the Conservative Government, a sincere thank you to everyone who serves our country.
Have a safe, happy and healthy holiday weekend.