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FIRST SUNDAY IN JUNE

Alberta proclaims first provincial Canadian Armed Forces Day

Jun 3, 2024 | 10:50 AM

From this point on, the Government of Alberta has marked the first Sunday in June as Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) Day.

According to provincial officials, the decision was made in an effort to recognize the role the CAF plays in building a strong province and strong communities, as well as the strength of the family that supports them.

“Members of the Canadian Armed Forces and their families serve our country every day, in and out of uniform. And whether deploying on overseas operations, responding to natural disasters, or training at home, no CAF member could without the support of our loved ones and neighbours,” says Maj. Bryn Wright CD, deputy commanding officer of the Loyal Edmonton Regiment (Fourth Battalion, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry). “As teachers, lawyers, mechanics, students, public servants and every type of profession, primary reservists also rely on the legal protections Alberta’s government has created to ensure they can serve their country. Thank you for your support!”

The government says it will host an inaugural Alberta Salutes Garden Party at Government House to celebrate CAF members, veterans, their immediate families and families of the fallen in recognition of the commitment they have all made to Alberta and Canada.

“This annual commemoration reaffirms our deep respect and appreciation for the bravery, dedication, and sacrifice of the men and women serving in the Canadian Armed Forces, both past and present. Alberta has a long, proud history of military service, and we are honoured to recognize the invaluable contributions of our soldiers, sailors, and aircrew who defend our freedoms and protect our nation. On Canadian Armed Forces Day and every day, we express our sincere gratitude to the members of the Canadian Armed Forces and their families for their unwavering commitment to our country,” says Justin Wright, Cypress-Medicine Hat MLA and military liaison to the CAF.

Provincial officials say Alberta has the third-highest number of active-duty members in Canada, and about one in every 10 Canadian veterans is Albertan.

CAF Day was established federally in 2002.

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