This year marks the 71st anniversary of D-Day and the Battle of Normandy, one of Canada’s most significant and successful military engagements. Our Conservative Government is proud to pay tribute to Canada’s veterans who served in this great battle, helping turn the tide of the Second World War and liberate Europe from Nazi tyranny.

On June 6, 1944, Canadian soldiers, sailors and airmen along with Allied troops stormed the German defences on the beaches of Normandy. Against difficult odds, the Canadian troops courageously advanced further than any of their Allies on that day. Canadian troops played an integral role in the success of the D-Day landings. This victory, however, came at a great cost with 340 Canadians paying the ultimate sacrifice on D-Day alone.

Canadians troops continued to play a monumental role in the months that followed, during the Battle of Normandy. A stronghold for Nazi forces, the Normandy campaign was a hard-fought battle, and Canadian troops played an important role in the offensives that would ultimately defeat Nazi forces and help bring an end to the war in Europe. Canadian troops suffered the most casualties of any division in the British Army Group with more than 18,000 casualties including more than 5,000 Canadians giving their lives.

D-Day was a pivotal moment in history. The accomplishments of Canada’s Veterans during the Second World War is a source of great pride for Canada. These Canadians courageously and sacrificially fought to defend freedom, democracy and the rule of law – values that we continue to enjoy today.

Canada’s Veterans have served our country with great distinction, and our Conservative Government is committed to giving all Veterans the support they need, and deserve. We owe them for defending our rights and freedoms, and we are forever indebted for their sacrifices and accomplishments.

Lest we forget.

Links:
D-Day Historical Fact Sheet
Photo Gallery
Information for Veterans and Veterans’ families